Cebu Pacific Honors Top Corporate, Gov’t Accounts in 10th CEBBIZ Awards

Cebu Pacific officials with the awardees in the 10th CEBBIZ Awards during the awarding ceremony at Dusit Thani Manila.

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, recognized its top performing corporate and government accounts at the 10th edition of the CEBBIZ Awards.

A total of 24 accounts from the country’s top 1,000 companies, government agencies, small and medium enterprises, and labor and shipping sectors were conferred with the CEBBIZ Award in a ceremony held at Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City.

A special award was also given to the Department of Budget and Management – Procurement Service as CEB’s invaluable partner for 2022.

The CEBBIZ Awards is an annual event that aims to recognize CEB’s top corporate account producers. The 2023 ceremony, which recognized the previous year’s top producers, was the first since 2019 after the awards were suspended for three years due to the pandemic.

“Through these awards, we hope you will all accept our gratitude for keeping Cebu Pacific strong despite the challenging times, and for helping the airline soar high again,” Arlene Tena, CEB Director for Passenger Sales and Distribution, told the awardees during the awarding ceremony.

To further show appreciation for their efforts, CEB took the awardees on a tour around Albay to explore the province’s stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. The tour was in partnership with the Provincial Government of Albay, Albay Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office and Misibis Bay Resort Philippines.

CEB is firmly in place for full recovery this year as it restores its pre-COVID network and capacity, aided by its unbeatable seat sales, widest domestic network, and reinstatement of its international destinations.

The airline currently flies to 35 domestic and 23 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

SM group to build new school buildings in Laguna, Batangas

Continuing its commitment to helping elevate the country’s education system, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), in partnership with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI) and the Department of Education (DepEd), have recently collaborated to construct two new school buildings in Laguna and Batangas.
Upon the completion of the joint initiative, two two-story four-classroom school buildings will be donated to the Laguna Resettlement Community School in San Pedro City, Laguna and the San Antonio Elementary School in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas.
Each of the school buildings is set to be equipped with learning materials, armchairs, handwashing facilities, emergency equipment, and PWD-friendly facilities to ensure that students, especially from low-income communities, gain access to modern, safe, and conducive learning facilities.
Formalizing the partnership, representatives from the SMFI, DepEd, and the local government units of said provinces attended the memorandum of agreement signing last April 28, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) in Malvar, Batangas.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd in various educational programs. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

A boost in delivering quality healthcare

In 1971, the Philippines launched the Community Health Organization Program to classify health services into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. As part of this initiative, barangay health stations were created to ensure that primary healthcare improves the overall health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

Since then, these local health centers have played a crucial role in improving the health outcomes of Filipinos. They have not only provided general healthcare services but also served as agents during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped with the vaccination rollout. Additionally, they continue to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Adequate facilities for improved healthcare

SM Foundation (SMFI) has made it its mission to provide adequate facilities and upgraded equipment to boost health centers as they fulfill their mandate of delivering quality health care, even amid the pandemic.

Pursuing its mission, SMFI and UNIQLO Philippines traveled to the cities of Tuguegarao and Cauayan in Cagayan Valley and upgraded two health facilities serving thousands of Filipinos. Beyond the new infrastructure, health workers see it as a chance to put forth the services they have always drawn from the heart.

In Brgy. District 1, Cauayan, Midwife Tarita Ann Ballasteros has tended to patients from low-income households, who barely have money to spare for the fare going to the facility and to buy medicine. She would then give the best care she can offer to compensate for the limitations of their center.

A resident of Cauayan City, Isabela undergoes a routine checkup in Brgy. District 1 Health Center

“Nakikita ko ang sitwasyon nila na ultimo pamasahe, wala sila. Iniisip ko, wala man lang akong maibigay na gamot sa kanila. Para sa akin, hindi ko man sila lubos na mapagaling, lalabas sila sa facility na magaan ang pakiram dahil sa tinatawag nating TLC (tender loving care),” she said.

Before, they had to use curtains as improvised medical partitions or lock the health center’s door to provide comfort to women seeking reproductive health care or pregnant mothers coming in for prenatal checkups.

“It takes time to prepare and attend to the next patient. Kailangan pa namin takpan ng kumot o ilock ang pinto ng center para magkaroon ng privacy ang mga pasyente. Dahil dito, isa lang ang naaaccommodate namin. Minsan, hindi sila komportable dahil nakikita ng iba yung procedure na ginagawa namin sa kanila,” she said.

Through the upgrade, the Brgy. District 1 Health Center had its own room for maternal and child health services, equipped with necessary medical tools. It was also fitted with a breastfeeding area and a designated space for immunization.

Health workers of Brgy. District 1 Health Center provides free prenatal checkups in the newly renovated health center

The upgrade served as the boost they needed to complement the TLC they have always given their community.

“Malaki ang connection ng renovation ng center sa pagsasaayos ng kalusugan ng aming komunidad. Kaming mga health workers ay mas eager na sa pag-pasok sa trabaho at mas marami na kaming pasyenteng mabibigyan ng serbisyo at matutulungan,” she said.

Through the newly renovated health center, residents of Brgy. District 1 health center enjoy free medical checkups.

“Dahil maganda na at maaliwalas, nakakatulong ito para gumaan ang pakiramdam ng pasyente bago pa man sila gamutin,” she added.

A change for the better

Sharing the same passion for health care service is Corazon Tanguilan, a Barangay Health Worker from Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center in Tuguegarao City.

“As a healthcare provider, hindi po namin gaano iniisip ang kalakihan ng aming health center. Ang importante po ay taos pusong pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa patients namin. Nasa kalooban po namin kung paano namin gagawing maayos pagpapatakbo ng aming operasyon,” she said.

Through their dedication, they strived to accommodate the healthcare needs of their patients despite unfortunate working conditions–from broken tiles, cracked wall paint, and damaged cabinets to limited electric fans for ventilation.

“Sira po ang aming mga tiles. Mahirap po ito dahil baka madulas o mapaano ang aming mga pasyente na kadalasan ay buntis at mga bata. Kaya nilagyan na lang po namin ito ng masking tape para makaiwas sa aksidente,” she recalled.

Due to the center’s layout and space limitations, it became even more difficult for them during the pandemic. With sick children, pregnant women, and TB-DOTs patients, it felt like a weight was pressed against their chests as they hoped to safely accommodate all patients while implementing social distancing.

Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center health workers cater to the general medical needs of its community in the newly renovated health center.

“During immunization days, may mga pregnant mothers na darating for prenatal check-up. Ine-entertain namin sila dahil hindi namin puwedeng pauwiin ulit at pabalikin pa. Mahalaga po ang sapat na espasyo para maisagawa ang infection prevention and control measures. Kaya mainam po ang ginawa ng SM Foundation na pagpapalawak ng health center namin para sa kaligtasan ng patients namin,” she explained.

As their center was rebuilt from the ground up, they felt relief and gained renewed optimism to improve their operations.

Pregnant mothers from Cataggaman Pardo, Tuguegarao City can now get comfortable prenatal care in the newly refurbished health center.

In addition to the installation of new equipment and facilities, complemented by cosmetic improvements such as fresh paint and tiles, the upgraded health centers now include designated rooms for maternal care, medical check-ups, and TB-DOTs treatment. The spacious and well-ventilated lobby provides a warm welcome to the people of Tuguegaraonos, encouraging them to pursue healthy living and become valuable contributors to the growth of their city.

“27 years na po ako sa serbisyo at bihira po ang health center na naka-aircon at well-ventilated. Kaya ngayon pong naisaayos na po ito, tiyak po ako na mas maeengganyo ang constituents ng namin na pumunta sa aming Center,” she said.

To use and/or download more photos, please check the photo selection here: https://bit.ly/40AaSHh

Thousands of cyclists and families celebrate life and pedal together at PRURide PH 2023 in Clark, Pampanga

PRURide Philippines makes a solid comeback after a three-year
hiatus, with over 4,000 cyclists and families gathered at Clark Global City,
Pampanga.

This year's PRURide is a milestone as it marks Prudential's 175 th anniversary
celebration, including its first 100 years in Asia.

"PRURide Philippines 2023 is a celebration of life with Filipino families on a journey
towards a healthier lifestyle, getting the most out of life. We are blessed to be back
on the road with thousands of cyclists and families pedaling together towards better
health and wellness,” says Eng Teng Wong, President and Chief Executive Officer of
Pru Life UK.

A bigger and better PRURide Philippines
As the country's largest cycling festival, PRURide Philippines is even bigger and
more exciting this year with thousands of registrants and families join the cycling
festivities.

PRURide Philippines advocates Gretchen Ho, Kim Atienza, and Zoren Legaspi cycled
the 100KM Gran Fondo category, and enjoyed the route which included the New
Clark City Bridge.

More advocates joined the event including cycling content creators Ger Victor,
Darlings Levi & Sara, Jeno Cuenco, and Ian Austria and Pru Life UK’s health
champions Teri Rombaoa, Miguel and wife Mary Reyes, Montini De Guzman, and
Aless Castañeda.

The much-anticipated event affirmed its spirit of inclusivity with fun and friendly
courses for cyclists of all ages and expertise. The Family Fun Ride and PRURide Milo
Kids Cup were a sure hit!

Cash prizes of PHP 3,000, PHP 5,000, and PHP 10,000 were awarded to the grand
winners of Virtual PRURide. In this digital competition, professional and amateur
cyclists experienced the fun and excitement of biking without going on the road for
free.

Everyone enjoyed the expo activities and freebies and were treated to a LIVE
concert by OPM band Sponge Cola.

Pru Life UK makes this celebration even more special with an all-expense-paid trip
to London for one eligible and existing customer and three family members.
Advocating for a healthier lifestyle

PRURide Philippines supports Pru Life UK's commitment on health and wellness.
Since 2016, the event has attracted thousands of amateur and seasoned cyclists,
including some of the Philippines' strongest and most competitive athletes.
“PRURide Philippines has always been more than just a cycling event. It is about
our continued advocacy of health and wellness for oneself and the whole family and
also community," adds Wong.

In celebration of Prudential’s 175 th anniversary, Pru Life UK is concluding PRURide
Philippines 2023 by giving back to the community in Cebu and donating 175 bikes
through JCI Zugbuanas.

The second leg of PRURide Philippines 2023 is on 28 May at CCLEX Food Park,
Cebu. Registration is still open until May 24. For details, visit
www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/pruride2023.

About Pru Life UK

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK is the pioneer of insuravest, or investment-linked life insurance
products, in the Philippines and is one of the first life insurance companies approved to distribute US
dollar-denominated investment-linked life insurance policies in the country. Since its establishment,
Pru Life UK has expanded its reach to over 173 branches and 120 general agency offices in the
Philippines, with the largest life insurance agency force with more than 39,000 licensed agents.
The company continues to be one of the leading insurers in the country, ranking first in terms of Total
Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products* and second in terms of New
Business Annual Premium Equivalent** in 2022, according to the Insurance Commission. Pru Life UK
is headquartered in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Pru Life UK and Prudential are not affiliated with Prudential Financial, Inc., (a company whose principal
place of business is in the United States of America), Prudential Assurance Company (a subsidiary of
M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom), Philippine Prudential Life Insurance
Company, Prudentialife Plans, Inc. or Prudential Guarantee and Assurance, Inc. (all Philippine-
registered companies). Pru Life UK is a life insurance company and is not engaged in the business of
selling pre-need plans.
For more information: www.prulifeuk.com.ph
Note to the Editor:
* Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products – premium collected for existing
policies
**New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year

About Prudential plc

Prudential plc provides life and health insurance and asset management in 24 markets across Asia and
Africa. The business helps people get the most out of life, by making healthcare affordable and
accessible and by promoting financial inclusion. Prudential protects people’s wealth, helps them grow
their assets, and empowers them to save for their goals. The business has dual primary listings on the
Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (2378) and the London Stock Exchange (PRU). It also has a secondary
listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange (K6S) and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange (PUK) in
the form of American Depositary Receipts. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and is
also included for trading in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme and Shanghai-Hong
Kong Stock Connect programme.

Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal
place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company
Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
https://www.prudentialplc.com/

SM Prime’s second annual integrated report receives multiple recognition from international organizations

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, has been recognized by three international award-giving bodies for excellence in transparent Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report entitled “Together, We Rise”.

SM published its sustainability reports since 2013 even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) mandated sustainability reporting in the Philippines. SM Prime further promotes transparency and accountability by informing investors and stakeholders of its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making processes, and competitive positioning value in the sector.

“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people,” SM Prime President Mr. Jeffrey Lim said.

At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).

Also, in the regional scene, the company won a Silver Rank in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT) 2022, a sustainability report ranking by the National Center for Sustainability Reporting (NCSR). ASRRAT’s rating system employs criteria based on GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosures transparency, and alignment with and support of the UN SDGs, among other factors.

The international recognitions are a testament to SM Prime’s active role in championing sustainability across its operations as it continues to be a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people.

Every day is Earth Day at SM Supermalls! 1700 children celebrate Earth Day at SM malls nationwide.

SM Supermalls, in collaboration with its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), local government units and partner schools and organizations joined the rest of the world in celebrating Earth Day at SM malls nationwide on April 22, 2023.

With the theme “Invest In Our Planet, Invest In Our Youth,” SM Supermalls and SM Cares lined up various activities that aimed to raise awareness among children and their families about the importance of coming together across various sectors to take care of the environment. SM malls nationwide simultaneously held relevant and impactful celebrations with activities such as Children’s Storytelling, Coloring, and Sustainability Tours, gathering 1700 children and 350 employee volunteers. These activities aimed to encourage everyone in the family, particularly the young ones, to protect and respect Mother Earth.

Earth Day is an annual celebration led by the Earth Day Network that puts the spotlight on issues that are affecting the environment. First held in 1970, Earth Day was the result of a need for a unified response against
various environmental problems like pollution and resource depletion. Today, the event is considered the biggest environmental movement in the world, with millions joining celebrations every year.

Children learn about how to protect the environment individually and as a community through art, storytelling and a Sustainability tour around SM malls

“At SM, every day is Earth Day. However, today we are reminded of our responsibility to protect the planet we live in. We believe that we must all come together and take the necessary steps against this climate crisis and accelerate a greener and more equitable future for everyone,” shared Ms. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and SM Cares Program Director for the Environment.

SM Supermalls featured the art of multi-awarded Filipino artist, sculptor and illustrator, Manuel Baldemor. His works depict the rich cultural aspects of the Philippines and can be found in multiple institutions worldwide. His drawings and Earth Day poem inspired the Earth Day program at SM, reflecting a long-time partnership on SM Cares programs for the environment, starting with his design of SM’s first eco bags in 2007.

The storytelling activity featured a special Earth Day story based on Baldemor’s artworks. The story reflected simple ways children can participate in living sustainably on their own and with their families. Meanwhile, kids and kids-at-heart were welcomed at the coloring activity section. Participants were given art materials and a selection of Baldemor’s drawings to color in. Malls used recycled materials in designing the activity areas.

And to cap off the celebration, a sustainability tour was held wherein everyone participated in a guided tour to one or more of the mall’s eco-friendly facilities such as the EV charging stations, water recycling treatment plants, waste segregation bins, Plastic Waste Collection booths, E-waste Collection bins and various bicycle amenities.

Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor’s artistic contribution provide inspiration for the Earth Day program. Joining him at SM City Fairview were DENR NCR Director Mr. Manuel T. Escasura; Quezon City Vice Mayor, Honorable Gian Sotto; Ms. Andrea Villaroman, Head of the Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department, Planet CORA’s Partnerships Director, Cat Trivino and SM Supermalls executives.

To highlight the role of collaborating with the public sector in driving environmental programs forward, SM City Fairview hosted the DENR Gawad Taga-ilog Awards photo exhibit, which recognized winning local government units who are leading in protecting Metro Manila’s waterways. The agency also further provided 800 tree seedlings to participants and customers through a DENR Community Pan-TREE to encourage at SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM City Fairview, SM City Novaliches, SM City Marikina, SM City East Ortigas and SM Southmall.

The Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department also promoted the city’s Trash to Cashback program to encourage its citizens to be Eco Warriors and promote recycling.

Youth participants join forces with SM Supermalls for a sustainable future.

The Earth Day celebration is just one of the numerous ways that SM is promoting sustainable living among Filipinos, and the company has other programs aimed at helping care for the environment. These are the Trash to Cash Recycling Market held every first Friday and Saturday of the month; daily water recycling systems, and environmental campaigns such as the Green Film Festival, Green Retail Agenda, and the International Coastal Cleanup Drive, just to name a few.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

To learn more about these, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Five urban development aspirations for Metro Manila

Metro Manila is comprised of 16 cities and 1 municipality – is the economic, political, and cultural capital.

Metro Manila’s forecast of becoming a global power city is challenged by the consequences of rapid urbanization. The UN-Habitat lists the effects of climate change, natural disasters that hamper urban infrastructures and city competitiveness, unequal livability, job creation, and poverty reduction.

Is there a way out of Metro Manila’s challenges? Architect and urban designer Chintan Raveshia, and urban planner and sustainability consultant Tony Chan of Singapore-based Arup emphasize urban development should also consider people’s aspirations, its changing needs and expectations, and the national identity of the residents.
Finding the identity of the city

Raveshia inspires responsible stakeholders to ask themselves first the most fundamental question: “What’s the identity of the city and how do we make its residents proud?”

He quips, “Singapore, a city that is high on everyone’s liveability list, is also working with citizens and grass roots organizations to inculcate a sense of ‘lovability’ for the city. This helps to strengthen the societal bond, increase equity, improve community safety, and exude pride and a feeling of ownership of the city amongst the residents. The balance of liveability, efficiency, and lovability paves the way for a true success of our cities in this climate emergency era”.

For his part, Chan believes that a successful sustainable urban development goes hand in hand with the capability to enhance people’s quality of life. “We must develop and harness models of development that have low-carbon targets, which are also of a human scale, thriving and inclusive; models that are also just, secured and enhances the quality of life for all its residents. In addition, we should look at creative ways to increase local citizen participation as well as new technologies or products that can support the overarching vision and development objectives”, says Chan.

Melbourne is considered by many experts as one of the most liveable cities for the past decade.

If Singapore reclaims lands for more affordable housing and increased integrated city developments and Melbourne builds accessible green spaces to promote social interaction, what plans would best fit Metro Manila’s sustainable and livable future while maintaining its identity? Here are five urban development aspirations Filipinos hope for the country’s main political and economic hub.

1. Accessibility across all social classes
While Metro Manila is the Philippines’ major economic driver – accounting for 32% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) – it’s often challenged in sustaining accessible living conditions for residents across all social classes. UK-based The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) ranked Metro Manila 105th out of 139 cities in the Global Liveability Index 2022. The increasing population density in Metro Manila has resulted in some inconveniences in daily conditions like vehicular traffic situations, least green open spaces, high carbon footprint, inaccessibility to affordable housing, and unequal income opportunities.

Urban planners and developers suggest mixed-use planning in the metropolis and coastal developments because they are crucial to achieving the 15-minute concept. Here, residents across all walks of life are encouraged to live a healthy, affordable, and sustainable lifestyle because residential, commercial, and office spaces are integrated within a single development.

2. Open green spaces for a healthy and sustainable living environment
Despite land scarcity, Singapore manages to be one of the greenest cities in the world with over 400 parks, more than 3,300 hectares of nature reserve, and over 300 kilometers of park connector network.

Studies shows that Metro Manila has only 5 square meters of green space available per person, this number is well below the 9 square meters set by the World Health Organization.COVID-19 had the entire world reassess their health conditions, lifestyle practices, and environmental situations. The impact was even more drastic in Metro Manila due to population density, crowded space, and insufficient parks and open areas.

Aside from improving air quality and enhancing biodiversity, green spaces also moderate temperatures during the warm season.

3. Enhancing Human health and wellbeing
Cities with sufficient healthcare facilities, access to health coverage, and infrastructures that
enhance well-being and promote a healthy lifestyle, produce prosperous societies.

The way cities are planned, designed, and executed has a crucial impact on how people live as it presents opportunities and effects on their lifestyles and overall well-being. While there is evident progress in Metro Manila’s health sector, rapid urbanization continues to pose risks in communities due to challenges in overcrowded neighborhoods, vehicular emissions, heavy traffic, pollution, and flood-prone areas.

4. Resilient community
Resilience is the capacity of individuals, communities, and systems to adapt, survive, and grow in the face of stress and shocks, and even transform when conditions require it. Relevant dimensions under the City Resilience Index (https://www.cityresilienceindex.org) by the Rockefeller Foundation & Arup, other dimensions include Health & Well Being, Economy & Society, Infrastructure & Environment as well as Leadership & Strategy

As Philippines and Manila grows, we face a dual challenge of adapting to climate change and the need to alter development strategies that are increasingly contributing to global warming. Philippines is among the top 10 countries in the world most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, according to the Global Climate Risk Index As an archipelago, impacts resulting from climate change are immense. In addition, metro Manila’s safety and resilience are endangered by various natural disasters.

Natural disasters persist every season due to our geographical location.

Well-planned and executed urban designs have the power to build safe and resilient communities in Metro Manila. Infrastructures like proper bike lanes and walkable streets ensure residents’ safety, accessibility, and comfort, whereas science and technology-based solutions that can build flexible structures, multi-use systems, and technologies can help residents adapt and prepare for changing conditions.

5. Global and competitive city

In 2022, Singapore is placed 3rd in the World Competitiveness Ranking – the small country out of Asia even placed 1st in 2019 and 2020.

Metro Manila is one of Asia’s premier regions. As the country’s engine growth driver, it has growing investments in infrastructures and multitudes of business investments and developments.

The metropolis’ rising potential can further step up by following global models like Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong which created several integrated cities and coastal developments that ushered in a vibrant economy and paved for a better urban lifestyle. These visions create an avenue to further increase opportunities for jobs, better education, better lifestyle, and bustling economic activities.

These can contribute to the Philippines’ national and local economies by driving tourism and infrastructure development while also creating equitable and inclusive communities. These, in turn, create a wider room of opportunities and, therefore, attracts more talent.

Building inclusive and sustainable growth centers
When all stakeholders are listened to and addressed, communities will be energized when introduced to well-designed, master-planned and implemented developments. This will result to a lasting impact on Metro Manila’s future and its residents because it fosters more inclusive growth and makes the urban landscape an extension of their home.

When a city embraces its history, celebrates its milestones, innovates and adopts for the future, and most importantly, nurtures its residents and responds to their aspirations – it is a city working toward competitiveness and unlocking future potential.

How about you? What would you aspire your city to be?

Rex Education partners with PSSC, PNHS, and PHA in enhancing content of History and Araling Panlipunan textbooks

APRIL GIVEAWAY! GC
Rex Education, in partnership with the Philippine Social Science Council (PSSC), the Philippine National Historical Society (PNHS), and the Philippine Historical Association (PHA), formally introduced the fellows of its “Saliksik Kasaysayan: A Fellowship Program to Develop a Compendium of Philippine History” program last February 17, 2023.
“Saliksik Kasaysayan” is a 10-month program that aims to take stock of and secure articles, materials, and references on different periods in Philippine history. The main proponents of the program are selected fellows knowledgeable in the different time periods of Philippine history, ensuring the accuracy and credibility of each learning resource.
The program was launched last September 2022, where REX and its partner organizations reaffirmed the importance of curating materials that would be reliable references for generations of academics and students. “This fellowship program brings together the academe, civil society, and private sector toward the common goal of serving Filipino learners,” REX Chief Executive Officer Don Timothy Buhain said during the event. “REX believes that an important next step in enabling our learners, teachers, and communities entails looking back at where we all came from.”
The 11 academics were awarded a generous grant to work on period or subject areas in Philippine history ranging from the pre-colonial period to the Fifth Republic and with special volumes on Muslim Mindanao and Indigenous Peoples Community.
During the program launch, Excelsa Tongson, DSD, Chairperson of the PSSC, delivered the opening remarks, followed by a message from Don Timothy Buhain, CEO of Rex Education. Lourdes M. Portus, PhD, Executive Director of the PSSC, introduced the fellowship program, and Ma. Luisa Camagay, PhD, President of the PHA, had the privilege of introducing the fellows.
Each fellow was given a chance to speak about the respective periods of their research. Michael L. Tan, PhD will be looking into the Pre-colonial period. Svetlana T. Camacho, PhD is set to investigate the Spanish rule period during the years of 1521 to 1872, while Grace Liza Y. Concepcion, PhD will study the Spanish rule during 1873 to 1898.
Ricardo T. Jose, PhD will cover the American rule and Japanese occupation period. Ferdinand C. Llanes, PhD will be studying the Martial Law era of 1972 to 1986. Jose Victor Z. Torres, PhD has committed to being the fellow for the Fifth Republic, encompassing the years of 1986 to present times. Meanwhile, Calbi A. Asain, PhD will be doing research on the Historiography of the Muslim Filipino.
Three fellows will also be tackling special volumes on the indigenous peoples communities in the three major island groups of the Philippines. Mary Jane B. Rodriguez, PhD will be covering Luzon, Alicia P. Magos, PhD will be studying Visayas, and Cecilia B. Tangian, PhD will be tackling Mindanao.
To end the program, Bernardita Churchill, PhD, President of the PNHS, delivered her closing remarks virtually from the United States.
History as a means of moving forward
As per DepEd Order 20, Philippine history was removed from the high school curriculum to pave the way for the K to 12 program. Instead, the topic was integrated into the Araling Panlipunan (AP) curriculum at the 5th and 6th grade levels. While the revised K-12 program has allotted discussions for Asian Studies and World History topics in Social Science classes, there is no dedicated subject for Philippine history for grades 7 to 10.
A 2019 pedagogy review conducted by the FEU Public Policy Center (FPPC) asserted that the goal of AP education should also be the development of students’ critical thinking skills apart from examination, interpretation, research, and communication skills, among others in DepEd’s goals. In their review, FPPC concluded that existing textbooks do not give a complete view of Philippine history.
There has been a consequent call to arms for academics, historians, and scholars to be better engaged in the production of materials regarding Philippine history, whether through co-authorship or fact checking. The end goal would be to ensure textbooks with historical accuracy and sound pedagogy, which is achievable through the effective use of primary sources.
REX, PSSC, PNHS, and PHA believe in the importance of Philippine history in making whole the learning experiences of every Filipino learner. Through “Saliksik Kasaysayan,” the program fellows embark on their journey of gathering and scrutinizing resources on Philippine history, with the ultimate goal of paving the way for Filipino learners who can understand and appreciate the nation’s past from credible materials and learn from it as they move forward.

Alaxan FR – Showdown of the Year.

Manny Pacquiao and Hidilyn Diaz dared one another at the Alaxan Showdown of the Year, share trusted companion in their triumphs through the years

Notwithstanding difficulties as world-renowned athletes, boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and weightlifting champion Hidilyn Diaz showcased their determination as they challenged one another at the recent Alaxan’s Showdown of the Year held at the Unilab Bayanihan Center.
To celebrate the coming together of Pacquiao and Diaz for Alaxan FR, the duo challenged each other by switching roles—Diaz challenged Pacquiao to lift weights while Pacquiao dared Diaz to spar. Aside from the challenges, the top-notch athletes also shared about their recent professional and personal endeavors and reveals their companion in their triumphs through the years.
Together with the pain relief medicine brand Alaxan FR, Pacquiao and Diaz, aim to empower hardworking Filipinos–the everyday champions–who continuously persevere and push their limits to achieve their goals and aspirations.
Moreover, as they continue honing their craft to level up with their respective sports, Pacquiao and Diaz, likewise demonstrate the same passion in their other endeavors.
Pacquiao recently unveiled his housing project called “Pacman Village” in Saranggani Province after he was named “ambassador for the homeless and vulnerable” by international organization Spring Rain Global. He is also dedicating his time in supporting young boxers including Mark Magsayo who held the WBC featherweight title in 2022. Pacquiao juggles these social projects with his training as he gears up for an upcoming match this 2023 in Japan.
Hidilyn Diaz, on the other hand, is undergoing rigorous training as she transitions to the 59-kg division for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics in her attempt to defend the gold after snatching it in the last Olympics in 2020. Named the Athlete of the Year by the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA), Hidilyn strives to promote weightlifting and empower young aspiring athletes, especially women, to reach their dreams.
While busy with both professional and personal ventures, Pacquiao and Diaz ensure they are accompanied by their tried and tested pain relief partner which helps them focus on being champions without worrying about body pains and without fear of any serious side effect.
Since 2001, Pacquiao has been taking Alaxan FR in fighting body pains not only from trainings but also from his non-athletic activities and endeavors.
“Alaxan FR ang naging kaagapay ko for the past 22 years. Ngayong 44 years old na ako, masasabi kong malusog at malakas pa rin ako, at ‘di ako nangangamba kapag nakararanas ng sakit ng katawan dahil sinusunod ko ang correct dose,” Pacquiao shared.
[Alaxan FR has been a reliable companion for the past 22 years. Now that I am 44 years old, I could say that I am perfectly healthy and have nothing to worry about when experiencing and treating my body pain because I always follow the correct dose.]
“Kilala ang mga Pinoy bilang masisipag kaya talagang isinasabuhay ko ‘to hanggang ngayon. Kapag weightlifter ka, hindi talaga maiiwasan ‘yong sakit ng katawan. I’m sure marami rin sa atin ang nakakaranas ng ganito sa araw-araw kaya importante na mayroong trusted companion gaya ng Alaxan na tumutulong labanan ang body pain at magpatuloy sa laban,” Diaz said.
[Filipinos are known for being hard-working and it is a value that I always keep in mind until now. As a professional weightlifter, body pains are inevitable. I’m sure many of us also experience this in our daily lives so it’s important to have a trusted companion like Alaxan that will help us beat body pains and continue moving forward.]
Trusted by many Filipinos for 50 years, Alaxan has not caused serious side effects with regard to taking this pain relief medicine. That is because it combined a lower level of Ibuprofen & Paracetamol (200mg Ibuprofen and 325mg Paracetamol). In fact, in a systematic analysis done by Cochrane in 2015, they found that “there were fewer side effects for people taking ibuprofen plus paracetamol than those taking placebo (a pretend treatment).” The study highlighted only Ibuprofen Paracetamol as having a good safety profile among all other common pain medicines that were included in the study.
“Pacquiao and Hidilyn have been icons and testaments that attaining your dreams is possible through determination. We’re very honored to have these champions who are very discerning about their health trust Alaxan, and we’re looking forward to seeing them achieve bigger things in life and in their career without worrying about body pains,” said Valerie Ifurung-Siquian from UNILAB Consumer Health.
For more information about Alaxan FR, visit their Facebook Page at @AlaxanFastRelief or visit their website: more about Alaxan. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

MILO® brought together an ACTIVE PILIPINAS with the successful comeback of the National MILO® Marathon

For the first time in 3 years, the National MILO® Marathon returned to energize runners of all levels

The much-awaited return of the National MILO® Marathon kicked off on March 26 with its first leg in the SM Mall of Asia Complex. After a 3 year hiatus, the marathon brought together over 12,000 runners for 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K, and 42K race categories.

The longest-running marathon in the country, this year’s National MILO® Marathon comeback marks its 44th iteration. It follows the brand’s MILO® ACTIVE PILIPINAS launch in January which was a call for the nation to go from couch to court with the help of MILO®’s energizing nutrition and sports programs.

“We started the year with a call to go from couch to court— to ease our way back into sports— and the return of the iconic National MILO® Marathon is one of the ways we’re doing that. Although it’s not on the scale that we’ve gotten used to, the MILO® Marathon continues to be a safe and trusted space where Filipinos can get together to start or strengthen their active lifestyles,” said MILO® Sports Head Carlo Sampan.
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In line with the brand’s commitment to easing Filipinos back into sports, MILO® also launched its first-ever Virtual MILO® Race where over 2,000 runners nationwide were also able to join the MILO® Marathon festivities despite not being physically present in the Manila leg.

While the Virtual Race invited runners outside of Metro Manila to join the fun of running, the National MILO® Marathon, in its 44th year, did not only bring together seasoned runners, but also welcomed casual and first-time runners. Among the marathon’s podium finishers was James Kevin Cruz from Montalban, Rizal, a returning runner who joined three MILO® marathons and took home the gold medal for the 42K run men’s category. When asked about how he prepared for the 42K category after recently doing only a 32K run, he shared, “Tinest ko lang laruin itong 42[K] na ito kasi 10K lang pagitan kaya ginrab ko na din. Nagpatulong ako sa kaibigan ko na bigyan ako ng program training para makalaro ako sa MILO®.”

Aside from the elite runners who heated up the competition for the various race categories, the event was also filled with casual runners who shared the joy of running with their families and friends. Joining the National MILO® Marathon for the third year, Kjerstin Janikka R. Schei shared that her running experience was “relaxing especially [since I trained] and I haven’t done it in a long time.” The 10-year old runner finished the 5K run with her friends. When asked why she likes to run, she said that it’s productive and helps her train for her other sports like soccer.

Attendees also had fun activities to try such as the Active Zones that gave kids an introduction to taekwondo, basketball, and sepak taraw. Keeping the energy high, MILO® also welcomed cheer dancing teams from elementary, high school, and college divisions for a cheer dancing competition.

The successful comeback of the National MILO® Marathon was made possible with the support of its official venue partner SM, hydration partners Cristalino and Crystal Clear, timing partner Garmin, fitness partner Anytime Fitness and Surge, hotel partner TRYP by Wyndham, registration partners and sponsors Decathlon Mall of Asia, Landmark, Super 8, Puregold, Waltermart, Metro Gaisano, Ford, Nestlé Cereals, Kitkat, Chuckie, Nescafé, and adidas; and sports partners Best Center, Philippine Taekwondo Association, Club Gymnastica, Gymnastic Association of the Philippines, and the Associate for the Advance of Karatedo.

It will continue to energize Filipinos to run towards the finish line as it kicks off its second leg in Batangas City on May 28, 2023. For more details about the National MILO® Marathon and other MILO® Active Pilipinas initiatives, visit https://www.milo.com.ph/activepilipinas and follow MILO® on Facebook.

#MILOMarathon2023
#MILOActivePilipinas