Strengthening efficiency and security: Eastern Communications launches upgraded cloud services and cyber defense

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(From left) Eastern Communications Product and Innovation Head Edsel Paglinawan, Co-Coordinatior Atty. Aileen Regio, DOSarrest Platform Specialist Scott Girbav, CloudSigma CEO Robert Jenkins, Eastern Communications Co-Coordinator Ramon Aesquivel during the launch of upgraded Eastern Cloud and Cyber Defense.

Fostering business efficiencies and security, Eastern Communications, one of the premier telecommunications companies in the country, introduces its newly upgraded and most advanced products and services in partnership with global allies DOSarrest and Cloud Sigma.

According to the Global Connectivity Index (GCI), Philippines’ digital connectivity has improved from Starter to Adopter status and ranked 57 out of 79 countries in 2018. This is reportedly due to expanded smartphone and computer use, higher speed 4G coverage, and national planning with “cloud first policy” in government’s aim of reducing expenses through cloud technology.

Connectivity plays a vital role in businesses today as it allows companies to adapt and have efficient operations. With the transformation emerging in the business environment, security threats arise, and flexibility becomes a challenge.

Cost-effective business operations

Cloud service is starting to get recognized in the business landscape. It is a cost-effective method of storing and sharing company data and applications securely over the Internet instead of computer hard drive.

Eastern Communications joined forces with international cloud service provider Cloud Sigma to launch its public cloud solutions providing the full spectrum of infrastructure and IT Services. Established in 2009 in Switzerland, CloudSigma has been providing a pure-cloud infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) that enables the digital industrial economy through its enterprise-class hybrid cloud servers and cloud hosting solutions in Europe, the U.S., Asia, and Australia.

Big companies can get the best of cloud service such us Public Cloud, one of the most customizable services available in the market, a type of computing in which a service provider makes resources available to the public via the internet and accessible by anyone who wants to pay for subscription or use it for free.

Protecting enterprises from cyber threats

Cyber threat landscape is constantly changing. Local companies and even institutions have been victims of several data breaches and cyberattacks, affecting their business security and operations.

Eastern Communications partners with Canada-based cybersecurity solutions provider DOSarrest in the aim of equipping Filipino companies with the right technology against cyber threats. DOSarrest was founded in 2007 and has been mitigating Distributed Denial of Service or DDoS attacks for a global customer base with its leading-edge cloud-based DDoS protection.

With this partnership, companies of all sizes can now secure their business from basic to the most sophisticated DDoS attacks. Eastern Communications has various cybersecurity solutions such as Web Application Firewall (WAF) that blocks any Layer 7 threat like cross-site forgery, cross-site scripting, among others; while Content Delivery Network (CDN) generates faster loading of a website, which saves companies money yet enhances website performance at the same time.

“It’s always been Eastern Communications’ High-Tech promise to provide the best and right solutions especially to businesses that aim for utmost productivity and efficiency without compromising security. And through our partnership with reputable global firms in the industry like DOSarrest and CloudSigma, we’re looking forward to helping companies here in the country to elevate their business connectivity and harness the long-term benefits our services can offer,” shared Product and Innovation Head Edsel Paglinawan.

Eastern Communications’ upgraded Eastern Cloud Service and Cyber Defense are now available in the market. For more information, visit www.eastern.com.ph.

WHO Philippines promotes UHC through Walk the Talk Manila

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World Health Organization (WHO) Philippines organized the first “Walk the Talk Manila: The Health for All Challenge” in Alabang as part of the global Health for All Challenge. The event brought together 2,000 people from all walks of life to highlight universal health care, while promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Participants ran, walked, wheeled, and biked in 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer distances. The non-competitive event was open to all ages and abilities and was free-of-charge.

Since 2018, WHO has led Walk the Talk events with participation from partners around the world. In May this year, WHO headquarters hosted the Walk the Talk in Geneva in parallel to the World Health Assembly, while the New York leg will be happening on 22 September 2019 on the eve of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the High-level Meeting (HLM) on UHC.

“Walk the Talk Manila is the first of its kind in the Philippines,” said acting WHO Representative in the Philippines Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe. “By coming together today, a week before the High-level Meeting on UHC, and the adoption of R.A. 11223 in the Philippines on UHC, WHO together with the Government of the Philippines is sending a strong message from Manila to New York that we are one with the global advocacy towards health for all.”

The Philippines will be sending delegates to the UNGA and the HLM, led by the Secretary of Health Francisco Duque III.

The Philippine Government, through the Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and local government units, has been leading the way since the enactment of the landmark Universal Health Care (UHC) Act or Republic Act No. 11223 on 20 February 2019. The landmark measure showed the political commitment of the Philippines to provide access to quality health care for all Filipinos, without suffering financial hardship. The law automatically enrolls all Filipinos in the National Health Insurance Program and prescribes complementary reforms in the health system. Among the significant reforms proposed under this law, are lowering of out-of-pocket health expenses and improvement of health services and facilities.

WHO supported the DOH, PhilHealth and the Philippine Congress during the legislative process of the UHC Act. WHO is also supporting the DOH and PhilHealth as they finalize the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the law as well as the operations of the UHC integration sites.

For more information, contact:
Faizza Tanggol, Communications Officer, WHO Philippines
tanggolf@who.int, 0998 573 1357

WWF-Philippines reinforces battle against unnecessary plastic with “No Plastics in Nature” initiative

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In line with the 1st anniversary of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines’ #AyokoNgPlastik movement, the leading environmental organization launches the ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative, a larger approach that seeks to stop the flow of plastic waste in nature by 2030.

The problem with plastics has been escalating for decades, where the Philippines has been identified as the world’s third largest contributor of plastics in the ocean. Plastic pollution has always been a huge issue in the Philippines with the continuous generation of plastic wastes and poor waste management.

In 2016, global plastic production has reached 396 million metric tons, which translates to 53 kilograms of plastic per person on the planet. A third of this number has already become land or marine pollution and with a projected increase of 40% by 2030, an additional 104 million metric tons will leak into nature in a business as usual scenario. This poses harmful effects not only to our environment, but to human health as well. It is estimated that on average, people could be ingesting approximately 5 grams of plastic every week.

Recognizing the threat brought about by plastic pollution, WWF-Philippines rolled out the #AyokoNgPlastik movement last year in hopes of addressing the issue by creating awareness among Filipinos to reduce dependence on single-use plastics such as straws, bags, bottles, and cups, among others.

This year, WWF-Philippines reinforces their campaign against unnecessary plastics by adopting the ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative, a global WWF approach that intends to stop the flow of plastics entering nature by 2030 through elimination of unnecessary plastics, doubling reuse, recycling, and recovery, and ensuring remaining plastic is sourced responsibly.

“With the ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative, we are hoping to make the Philippines free of unnecessary plastic wastes, but we cannot do this alone, we need the help of everyone. Every individual, company, and institution should be mindful of the amount of plastics they produce and use daily, and take action accordingly, to make this goal a reality,” said Joel Palma, WWF-Philippines President and CEO.

The initiative is a holistic approach consisting of four main strategies such as lobbying for a global legally binding agreement on plastic pollution, Plastic Smart Cities movement for cities and tourism destinations, Plastic Action (PACT) for businesses, and #AyokoNgPlastik for the general public.

The WWF network is continually pushing for a new international legally binding agreement to comprehensively address marine plastic pollution throughout the full life cycle from both production to disposal and recovery back into a circular loop. This is the network’s response to the agreement made at the recent 14th Conference of the Parties to the Basel Convention (COP 14) in Geneva, which stresses that the developing world could no longer be a plastic dumping ground and that any trade would require the prior consent from the receiving country.

Plastic Smart Cities, on the other hand, is a global movement of cities and tourism destinations that are fighting plastic pollution through improved collection, recycling, reduction of key waste plastics, and landfill management. Currently, the Philippines is working in six cities including Davao City, Digos City, Tagum City, Manila City, Parañaque City, Island Garden City of Samal, and four municipalities including Lupon, San Isidro, Sta. Cruz, and Donsol.

Meanwhile, WWF-Philippines was able to partner with at least 20 businesses for the sustainable journey movement where programs to reduce or eliminate single-use plastics in their supply chain system, workplace, and business operations were implemented. This program resulted in the prevention of over 1.5 million pieces of plastic waste from leaking into nature. Currently, WWF-Philippines is adopting the Plastic Action (PACT), which is a regional initiative on engaging businesses to take on a circular economy.

Finally, WWF-Philippines’ successful #AyokoNgPlastik movement will continue to educate the general public about plastic pollution, its impacts, and how people can help in addressing it through the Facebook community and the recently launched AyokoNgPlastik microsite. Members of the movement have also demonstrated their commitment to this cause by signing the petition to support the call for a new legally binding international agreement on plastic pollution.

“The problem on plastic pollution will only continue to worsen if we don’t do anything about it. We are determined to address this issue to ensure that there will be no more plastic pollution in nature by 2030, and we hope to achieve that through the ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative,” Palma reiterated.

WWF-Philippine’s ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative was launched on the 5th of September at Shakey’s Quezon Avenue. Shakey’s Philippines is one of the newest partners and supporters of the #AyokoNgPlastik movement.

To know more about WWF-Philippines and the ‘No Plastics in Nature’ Initiative, visit www.ayokongplastik.org or follow /WWF.Philippines on Facebook. To engage in conversations on plastics, join facebook.com/groups/ayokongplastik.

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Czarina Constantino
Project Manager – No Plastics in Nature Initiative, WWF-Philippines
cconstantino@wwf.org.ph

For media arrangements, please contact:

Mr. Dan Ramirez
Communications and Media Manager, WWF-Philippines
dramirez@wwf.org.ph

About WWF

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations, with over 6 million supporters and a global network active in over 100 countries. WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the Earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world’s biological diversity, ensuring that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption.

WWF-Philippines has been working as the 26th national organization of the WWF network since 1997. It has been successfully implementing various conservation projects to help protect some of the most biologically-significant ecosystems in Asia.

Chef Gene Gonzalez Shares Delightful Cooking Secrets and Family Dishes

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Internationally renowned Chef Gene Gonzalez cooks up traditional favorites and sumptuous innovations with a King Sue twist at his flagship ancestral home turned restaurant for King Sue’s Pre-Holiday Media Lunch on 4 September, Wednesday, at Café Ysabel, 175 M Paterno Street, San Juan, Metro Manila.

Chef Gene, who opened Café Ysabel at 23 and is now president of the pioneering Center for Asian Culinary Studies, pays tribute to King Sue products which have been a staple fare on the dining table as well as in his kitchen. “King Sue has been there at home ever since,” shares the author of “Cocina Sulipeña” and many other cookbooks.

He’d wake up to King Sue bacon for breakfasts as a student, enjoy Chinese ham during holiday festivities with the family, and rely on Chinese sausage for his Asian cooking and for his culinary school. “I also like their dried pork feet, which goes into my Spanish cooking and to my superior stock that gives my Chinese dishes authenticity,” he reveals.

“Rather than glaze a ham, you can braise it in a mix of vegetables and wine and the broken down vegetable puree acts as the sauce,” he confides. King Sue products are not only popularly available and dependable, they are also very versatile. “The dried pork feet are truly excellent for beans, fabada, and stews along with Spanish chorizos for Filipino-Spanish combinations.”

“The King Sue burgers can be redone with herbs to create meatball, while the luncheon meat has hundreds of applications as fillings for Vietnamese and German cooking,” enthused Chef Gene. But the best part of this, however, is that King Sue having withstood the test of time and changing markets, is also very reasonably priced for such top quality.

Hobby cooks and consultant could readily resort to King Sue when their or their client’s budgets get a bit tight so as to avoid sacrificing taste and flavor. Thus, the only Ten Outstanding Young Men Awardee for Culinary Arts, advised homemakers, chefs, and restaurateurs:

“Before you think deli items, take a second look at your King Sue products because they have great applications for reasonably priced ingredients with good quality.”

* * *

Indeed, King Sue is synonymous to quality. As a fifth generation business started in 1930 by Mr Cu Un Kay who began by selling whole leg Chinese hams in Chinatown. “The name comes from King, meaning ‘royalty,’ and Sue, meaning ‘small,’ shares Mr Richie King, VP for Marketing, “because my grandfather who is small in physical stature, has big dreams for his family.”

Thus, after 89 years, King Sue, which was incorporated in 1970, has diversified from whole leg hams to sausages and cold cuts to other meat products. “Today, the company boasts of a variety of quality meat products, ranging from traditional hams to smoked bacons and sausages, as well as traditional favorites tocino, longganisa, and sisig,” adds Mr King.

King Sue, however, continues to step up its game by reaching further into the high-end and more health conscious market. In 2019 it launches its Kaiser Deli Brand, which offers ultra-premium sausages, bacons, and hams for the most discriminating clients. All King Sue products are both GMP and HACCCP certified.

Maintaining quality and supplying the market demand are easy for the King Sue because everything’s made in house using state-of-the-art German equipment. “But, even with these high-tech machinery, preparation for the Christmas season starts in August for the whole bone Chinese hams,” confessed Mr King. “It takes a month to properly cure whole bone, which still needs to be smoked then cooked. It takes patience to perfect them.”

Major supermarkets—SM, Robinson’s, and Puregold—as well as hotels and restaurants from La Trinidad, Metro Manila, through Bicol carry King Sue products, which are distributed nationally through distribution partners.

“King Sue moves forward in 2019 with another milestone on top of its high-end line,” opens Ms Romana Go, VP for Human Resources, “by slowly converting to merit-based management. Although the company remains a family business, we’ve started hiring outside employees for key management positions—Of course, the recipes from our grandfather and the tradition of making hams remains a family secret.”

* * *

Chef Gene Gonzalez, who is the consultant responsible for the success of some 60 food establishments/businesses and a member of the London-based International Wine and Food Society, has personally witnessed the versatility of King Sue for all occasions and cooking needs.

Thus, Chef Gene’s world-class expertise and impeccable taste shares with us one of the secrets of his delicious traditional dishes at home, innovative meals at Café Ysabel, and creative recipes for the Center for Asian Culinary Studies: King Sue’s Chinese ham, bacon, and dried pork feet along with a delightful array of new meat products!

Every kitchen will surely take on a new level with by having King Sue as its old reliable partner for its meat needs. Without a doubt, King Sue products are as good for the holiday table as they are for exciting everyday meals, special dinner spreads, and catering needs not just this Christmas but through the years to come!

Robinsons Townville challenges dance creativity through #OurFunOurSquad contest

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Robinsons Townville celebrated the creativity of various dance crews as it challenged them to perform to the latest dance mix of the Robinsons Townville jingle.

And Ken San Jose, the 3rd place in the final round of the “World of Dance Philippines” was there to show a number of dance step while the audience were entertained.

The #OurFunOurSquad dance contest, held last August 31 at Robinsons Townville in Pulilan, Bulacan, attracted several talented dance crews who showcased their modern and hip-hop dance covers of the new jingle.

No less than Los Angeles-based YouTube content creator and international dancing sensation, Ken San Jose, was among those who graced the performances. The “World of Dance Philippines” contestant who has collaborated with artists like Jason Derulo, WilldaBeast, and Alexander Chung, also wowed the audience with his own dance number prior to awarding prizes to the winners.

Folk Jumpers took home the grand prize of P10,000 worth of Robinsons gift certificates (GCs) and P5,000 worth of cash.

Beat Dancers landed in 2nd place and received P7,000 worth of Robinsons GCs and P3,000 cash while Novel Crime settled for 3rd place and got P3,000 worth of Robinsons GCs and P2,000 worth of cash.

The #OurFunOurSquad dance battle contestants and audiences also enjoyed exciting pocket activities courtesy of Robinsons Supermarket, Daiso, Swift, and Universal Robina Corporation. They were also treated to an interactive arcade experience care of Dance Kinect.

Aside from building a more harmonious community with the #OurFunOurSquad Dance Contest, through celebrating art and culture, and promoting a sense of involvement and collaboration; Robinsons Townville continues to create accessible shopping experiences for Filipinos with the presence of their stores near schools and residential areas.

Don’t miss out on what transpired during the Robinsons Townville #OurFunOurSquad! Check out and “like” Robinson’s Townville’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/RobinsonsTownville/, or visit their website at www.robinsonstownville.ph/

IPSUM JPX – Working to elevate the Filipino Brands and Entrepreneurship

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Left to Right – Victor Galzote , Director for Branding – Corporate Branding and Marketing – Okada Manila ; Ms Cielo Ortega – Reboredo, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Hospitality & Entertainment; Mary Faith A. Abaño, CPM President, Philippine Marketing Association; Ms. Alpha Gracias C. Allanigui, CPM Director-in-Charge, IPSUM: JPX

The PMA’s new flagship marketing conference features Japan on its inaugural year.
On its 65th anniversary, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) celebrates a new dawn by bringing the world stage of marketing to the PMA’s new flagship conference, IPSUM, which is the first-ever, country-focused marketing event to be held in the Philippines.

For its inaugural conference, the PMA will break ground with “IPSUM JPX: Marketing Exchange Japan” on September 19, 2019 at OKADA Manila. With Japan being one of the Philippines’ strongest economic partners, IPSUM JPX highlights the long-standing relationship between the two countries; not only in business, but also in the way Japan has influenced culture, food, and fashion.

Bringing Together the Top Minds Behind Japanese Global Brands
On its opening year, IPSUM JPX presents an impressive slate of speakers, featuring some of the top Japanese global companies. The one-day event will be further divided into three Tracks, with industry leaders discussing Japan’s distinct Culture, Leadership, and Innovations.

Attendees can also look forward to experiential cross-cultural expositions, educational discussions on best practices and innovations, and an engaging series of marketing workshops and networking activities at IPSUM JPX.

JPX: Culture

Through the years, Japan has evolved into one of the most unique cultures in the world, marrying the traditional and the modern to create a completely new identity. IPSUM JPX aims to look closer at how Japan’s distinct customs and lifestyle practices have made globally recognized products and brands. From organization to hospitality, the Culture Track will host such speakers as Christine Dychiao, the First Certified Consultant of the KonMari Method in the Philippines; Takahiro Kimura, All Nippon Airways (ANA) Co. Ltd, Administration and Sales Manager; and Takashi Oya, Okada Hotel’s President.

There will also be a Panel Discussion on the passion for Japanese culture, moderated by Cholo Mallillin, Event Marketing Head of Toycon PH. Panelists for this segment will include Jerome Villanueva, the Founder of Voltes V Documentary; Dr. Blue Soon, an International Trainer on Pokemon-Go; and JJ Yulo, a Food Travel Organizer for Japan.

JPX: Leadership

A global leader in business, Japan offers a wealth of marketing and branding insights from their ways of doing business, best-in-class systems, and brand mantras that have made Japanese leadership a global force. At IPSUM JPX, attendees can look forward to hearing from Kazuhiro Ozawa, President and CEO of Canon Marketing (Philippines) Inc.; Ann Christine Palisoc, President of Philippine Wacoal Corp.; and Masako Okamura, ASPAC – Dentsu Aegis Network Philippines’ Executive Creative Director.

The Leadership Track will also include a Panel Discussion on Japanese cult brands in the Philippines such as Onitsuka, which will be represented by Christian Herradura, Co-Founder of the Onitsuka Tiger Shoe Club of the Philippines. This segment will be moderated by Carlo Ople, who is the Founder and Host of Unbox.ph, and the Vice-President for Digital Strategy and Consumer Disruptive Business at PLDT/Smart.

JPX: Innovation

Forward-thinking and solution-oriented, the Japanese are pioneers in developing new methods and ideas. Zeroing in on this spirit of ingenuity and its role in creating revolutionary products, IPSUM JPX will feature innovative companies that have redefined the Filipino retail experience. One of the brands guests can expect to hear from is Family Mart, represented by Henry Albert Fadullon, President of Philippine FamilyMart CVS.

Gathering world-class experience, education, and engagement all in one place, IPSUM JPX highlights the best of Japan’s branding, cultural affiliations, and business mindset to the heart of Manila for a one-of-a-kind Marketing Exchange. “We are bringing great brands and great minds together for a creative exchange of ideas, best practices and innovations. The IPSUM JPX world stage will be bustling with energy, success stories and thought-provoking discussions,” says Jos Ortega, overall chairman of IPSUM JPX.

“As we mark our 65th anniversary, the Philippine Marketing Association is especially proud to present the first marketing conference of its kind in the country,” shares PMA President, Ms. Faith Abano. “Through IPSUM JPX, we realize our goal of creating a platform for Filipino Marketers to learn and exchange best practices from all over the world, so that, in turn, we can work together to further elevate the caliber of Filipino brands and entrepreneurship.”

Presented by the PMA, IPSUM JPX is a collaborative effort made possible by its partners: Salesforce, FamilyMart, Carlo Rossi, Casino Filipino, Maxicare, Okada Manila, Pagcor, and Rebisco Sandwich; Affiliates: Animo Magazine, Binary Digital Communications, Ex-link Events, Inspire Leadership Consultancy, Salt & Light Ventures, and TeamAsia; and Media Partners: Adobo Magazine, Business World, DOOH, DWIZ 882, 97.9 Home Radio, Manila Bulletin, My Inquirer, The Philippine Star, and United Neon Media Group.

About IPSUM

Redefining Marketing Conferences, the word “IPSUM” refers to the world stage of marketing, and with this, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) aims to create a platform for Filipinos to learn and exchange global insights and expertise. A restrengthening of the PMA’s annual National Marketing Conference, this event will highlight a chosen country each year, with the vision of allowing Filipino Marketers to dive deeper into international cultures and economies in order to gain a better understanding of the best international brands, businesses, and experiences.

About the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA)
Founded in 1954, the PMA was established to create awareness for the power of marketing in business, industry, and the academe. Pioneering various initiatives across the country, the Association works to develop and promote marketing as a science and a profession, and to serve as the policy-making and the recommendatory arm of the government on marketing-related issues. Today, the PMA remains the leading institution for marketing excellence in the Philippines.

World Vision launches 1,000 Girls campaign with young actress Bianca Umali

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World Vision in the Philippines, together with World Vision Ambassador for Education Bianca Umali, launches “1000 Girls,” a campaign that aims to give girls a better future and help them to reach their potentials and achieve their dreams.

Globally, millions of girls do not have the chance to go to school because they are forced into child labor, child marriage or child pregnancy. According to a survey released by the Philippine Statistics Authority, 63.3% of the Filipino out-of-school youth are girls. It was also revealed that the main reason for the high percentage is marriage and family matters.

In response to this alarming problem, World Vision is introducing the “1000 Girls” campaign, a global movement that intends to help 1000 Filipino girls through the organization’s Child Sponsorship program. The project will pave the way for the celebration of International Day of the Girl on October 11.

“Each girl deserves to be in school, overcome poverty, reach her full potential, and eventually, be a valuable member of the community. I encourage everyone to help us reach our goal and help these girls fulfill their dreams,” shared World Vision Ambassador for Education Bianca Umali, a staunch advocate of women empowerment.

“We decided to adapt the ‘1000 Girls’ campaign in the Philippines because Filipino girls share similar struggles with girls who live in poverty in other countries. There are so many challenges in fulfilling their dreams. If no one will help them and stand for them, how can they attain their goals?” said World Vision Executive Director Rommel V. Fuerte. “We implore everyone to join our cause in helping Filipino girls who are suffering from circumstances brought by lack of access to their most basic needs. With everybody’s help, we can reach more children.”

Running to empower girls’ dreams

In support of the campaign, business mogul Victor Consunji and his race partner Enrico Menichetti pledged to join and finish the 2019 Fire + Ice Ultra Marathon, which will take place from August 26 to 31 in Iceland. The duo has set up a fundraising page where people can pledge their support not only to cheer Victor and Enrico on but also to empower the dreams of girls still living in poverty.

“When we join a marathon, we have a specific goal in mind and that is to reach the finish line. We overcome obstacles and push ourselves to the limit to reach this goal. The same can be said for the thousands of Filipino girls who also have their own goals, dreams and aspirations. Sadly, not everyone has the means to do so because of poverty,” Victor explained. “We believe child sponsorship can help change this.”

“Enrico and I are dedicating this race to these girls because we want them to know that reaching their dream is possible. We want to empower them through this fundraising run. I hope that you can support Enrico and I as we run another race for children,” Victor added.

This is not the first time Victor and Enrico are running for the benefit of World Vision children. In 2018, the race partners successfully finished the Marathon Des Sables, also known as ‘the toughest foot race on earth.’ The funds raised from Consunji and Menichetti’s run were used to support World Vision’s nutrition project in Batangas, provide school supplies for children in Malabon, give water facilities in West Misamis, and build a new water system in Bohol.

World Vision’s “1000 Girls” campaign is also supported by its major partners Shopee Philippines, UL Skin Sciences, Tupperware Brands Philippines, and Elev8 Media.

To know more about “1000 Girls,” visit www.worldvision.org.ph. You may also follow /worldvisionph on Facebook and @worldvisionphl on Instagram for updates.

About World Vision

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.

Giving Filipinos more financial freedom and flexibility by using Cashalo

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“
Cashalo introduces the first-of-its-kind e-commerce digital-credit payment solution
Cashalo enables fly-now, pay-later solution on Cebu Pacific flights

Cashalo, rolled out its latest innovative product, Pay with Cashalo—a cutting-edge digital-credit payment solution designed to provide a transparent and consumer-friendly payment alternative to cash and traditional credit. Echoing its mission of making digital financial services more easily accessible to everyone, including unbanked and underserved Filipinos, Pay with Cashalo gives unrivaled choice, freedom, and flexibility to address lifestyle needs and provide a convenient, transparent and secure digital credit payment facility.

On top of making payments easier and more convenient, Cashalo’s solution helps broaden the e-commerce experience of Filipinos. Pay with Cashalo empowers Filipino consumers to easily pay for their online purchases over time, even without a credit or debit card. Data from the Bangko Sentral shows that less than 16 million Filipinos, or roughly only 23% of the population have bank accounts, with even less owning credit cards.

Kicking-off Pay with Cashalo, the fintech company partnered with Cebu Pacific that will enable more Filipinos to fly now and pay later. Through Pay with Cashalo, travelers can book flights worth a maximum of PHP7,000 on Cebu Pacific, use the new digital-credit solution as a payment alternative, then pay later in affordable installments over three or six months.

Hamilton Angluben, General Manager of Cashalo, said: “Through innovation, we are able to unlock greater financial possibilities for more Filipinos. As a first-of-its-kind solution, we firmly believe that ‘Pay with Cashalo’ can transform how Filipinos from all segments of society transact online and build a more secure financial future. We’re thrilled to launch this product with our valued partner Cebu Pacific who shares our mission to empower every Juan with more opportunities and create memorable moments.”

Pay with Cashalo is fully integrated into the booking system of Cebu Pacific. Travelers can easily choose Pay with Cashalo and enjoy its benefits as they book their domestic flights, with credit approval processed in less than three hours.

Candice Iyog, Vice President for Marketing and Distribution, Cebu Pacific said, “As Cebu Pacific enables every Juan to fly by broadening the base of travelers with affordable and accessible flights, our partnership with Cashalo will harness more potential travelers through a fly now, pay later scheme. It will enhance payment options for our customers and even provide assistance to those who have urgent travel needs.”

In the coming months, Cashalo will be partnering with many more e-commerce platforms and merchants to integrate Pay with Cashalo as a payment alternative.

By continuing to develop innovative and purpose-built financial products, Cashalo pushes financial inclusion forward while simultaneously promoting financial literacy. The company recently launched CashAcademy, a grassroots financial education program that makes accessible online and offline free learning modules and training resources to benefit more Filipinos. CashAcademy aims to cultivate a generation better equipped to make sound financial decisions, making them “Pera Experts”- financially aware and responsible.

About Cashalo
Cashalo is a leading fintech platform used by millions of Filipinos to build financial identities, access fast, secure, affordable credit and other financial services, and take control of their financial health. Since its launch in 2018, Cashalo has already helped over 1.5 million previously ‘credit-invisible’ Filipinos build a financial identity. The company continues to see rapid growth, with the Cashalo app in the phones of more than 3.5 million users and counting.

Cashalo is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Oriente, a Hong Kong-headquartered technology and data science company committed to financial inclusion in emerging Asia. Oriente’s founders include visionary leaders behind internet giants Skype and LU.com. JG Summit Holdings, Inc. is an important strategic partner and investor in Oriente’s regional efforts to build the future of finance and unlock economic value for the millions of unbanked people, underserved communities and merchants across Southeast Asia.

Media Contacts:
Patti Dizon
Communications Lead, Cashalo
patti@cashalo.com
09173282088

HP study shows Filipino millennial parents want their kids “future-proof”

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Key Survey Findings:
● Ensuring their children are future-proof is a top priority for Filipino parents
● 70% of Filipinos, the highest among markets surveyed, are willing to spend on extra
classes or activities for their children outside of regular school work
● 91% say it is most important for their children to be happy when they grow up
● Parents believe that printed materials are essential to learning
HP Inc. in the Philippines today released findings from the HP New Asian Learning
Experience Study. The survey explores how the personalities of these parents impact the
ways in which they define learning for their children in order to ensure they have the right
skills for their future success.
The study also revealed that most Filipino parents are realists. They are aware of the
potential obstacles that their children may face in the future and are willing to do whatever
they can to ensure that they are prepared. They want their kids to be exposed to the world
and develop skills that they can use beyond the class room and in real life.
“The study gives us insights on how learning is evolving and where our innovation can ensure
these young learners thrive,” said Pallasena V Viswanath, Managing Director of HP
Philippines. “At HP, we are aligned with the parental focus on reinventing learning to create a
positive impact on their children.”
Fighting a future of uncertainty
In all countries surveyed, future proofing children is the greatest concern for all parents.
Amid the accelerating inflation in the Philippines, 75% of Filipino parents surveyed say that
they worry about the rising cost of living, while 56% are worried about job security for their
kids in the future market. This is why a major sacrifice that Filipinos make for their children is
finding ways for them to learn a wide range of skills. 70% of these parents, the highest
among all markets surveyed, are willing to use a part of their family’s income in for extra
classes or activities in order to give their children an advantage over their peers.
When asked about their top priority for their child’s future, the study revealed that Filipino
parents only want their children to be happy and feel fulfilled. 93% even say that they like
teaching their children because it’s the best time to bond, rather than to control their learning.
Filipino parents want to take advantage of technology alongside traditional learning
The HP New Asian Learning Experience Study also revealed that parents believe printed
materials will impact their child’s learning more positively than purely digital learning.

Ultimately, they perceive a mix of both print and digital as most beneficial. Parents feel that
printed materials are better used for activities related to art (61%), math (60%), and
memorization (50%), whereas electronic materials better facilitate learning in music or auditory
skills (60%) and art (57%).
HP, through its range of innovative printers and personal computers, such as the HP DeskJet
Ink Advantage 3775 and the HP Pavilion x360, reinvents learning to ensure that students have
the right tools to develop their skills and help their practical, creative, critical, and inventive
learning.
For more information, please visit HP Official Store on Lazada.

Access the press kit here: http://bit.ly/HPNewAsianLearningExperience
About the HP New Asian Learning Experience Study 2019
The HP survey engaged 3,177 respondents across India, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore,
Indonesia and the Philippines aged between 25 and 42 with at least one child. The survey was
conducted from November to December 2018. The results in the press release are based on
respondents in the Philippines only.
About HP
HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our product and
service portfolio of personal systems, printers and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that
amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com

Unplanned showing August 21 at SM Malls Nationwide

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Witness a life-changing experience as SM Cinema exclusively brings Unplanned to Philippine cinemas nationwide.

Based on the US best-selling autobiographical memoir, Unplanned follows Abby Johnson, one of the youngest reproductive health clinic directors in the US, and her journey of transformation and self-discovery as she witnesses an event that changes her life forever. Unplanned is a personal drama, telling Johnson’s story from both sides of the abortion issue and her eventual conversion to becoming one of the leading anti-abortion activists in the country.

“Portraying Abby Johnson is a huge responsibility. To be able to tell the powerful story of her transformation was such an honor and the experience has been incredible,” said leading actress Ashley Bratcher, who recently visited the Philippines with producer Mike Manhardt to promote the film.
“We want this film to become a vehicle to start a conversation around the world, and we invite the Philippines to be part of that conversation” shared Manhardt.
Directed by religious filmmakers Cary Solomon and Chuck Konzelman, Unplanned stars Ashley Bratcher as Abby Johnson, Brooks Ryan as Doug, Robia Scott as Cheryl, Jared Lotz as Shawn and Emma Elle Roberts as Marilisa.

Catch Unplanned starting August 21, only at SM Cinema branches nationwide. Book your tickets through the website, www.smcinema.com or download the SM Cinema mobile app. You may also follow /SMCinema on Facebook and @SM_Cinema on Instagram for updates. Satisfy your cravings at Snack Time, the official food concessionaire of SM Cinema, which offers a wide array of snacks like popcorn, hotdogs and burgers to complement your movie watching experience. Follow /SnackTimeOfficial on Facebook for more information.