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PLDT, Smart enhance livelihood opportunities for MSMEs in Pangasinan, Baguio, Bicol

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PLDT, Smart enhance livelihood opportunities for MSMEs in Pangasinan, Baguio, Bicol

Over a hundred owners and managers of micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) gained new learnings from a training series organized by PLDT Enterprise, aimed at helping MSMEs enhance their financial and market access, develop their skills, and adapt to tech innovations. The latest runs of the PLDT Enterprise series were held in Manaoag City, Pangasinan; Baguio City; and Legazpi and Naga in the Bicol Region.

Among the programs featured was PLDT and Smart’s eBizNovation, which provides access to technology and upskilling trainings, and helps onboard MSMEs and farmers to e-commerce platforms. PLDT and Smart have partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture, local chambers of commerce, and various e-commerce platforms for this program.

During the event, the participants learned about the benefits of using the Smart Messaging Suite, a text messaging platform that businesses can use as an effective go-to-market strategy; and Maya’s financial solutions for businesses.

Meanwhile, representatives from TikTok shared with the attendees how MSMEs could use the TikTok Shop e-commerce platform to market their products and services and widen their reach online. With video selling being a prominent feature on TikTok Shop, small and emerging business owners can effectively showcase their products and engage with customers.

As TikTok Shop continues to grow in importance for e-commerce, PLDT Enterprise provides essential solutions like MSME FIBERBIZ plans, alongside the Smart Messaging Suite, ensuring seamless online operations. These solutions empower MSMEs to confidently produce and stream high-quality video content, promptly respond to customer inquiries, and efficiently manage transactions. This support enables MSMEs to fully leverage TikTok Shop, enhancing their business potential.

“Through eBizNovation, we aim to help farmers and MSMEs generate more income and expand their market reach by equipping them with the tools and the know-how to become effective online merchants,” said PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Head Stephanie V Orlino.

PLDT Enterprise Retail Industry Business Consultant Jerry Dy emphasized that digitalization could bring more opportunities to MSMEs. According to the DTI, as of 2022, 99.59% of business enterprises operating in the Philippines, or over 1.1 million, are MSMEs. Based on a DTI survey in 2020, less than 10% of the MSMEs that joined the study used advanced digital tools, such as ERP, CRM, data analytics, for their businesses.

“That’s why PLDT Enterprise is going across the Philippines, to start talking about digitalization and bring its benefits to more local MSMEs, further driving the growth and success of these businesses,” said Dy.

To date, PLDT and Smart’s eBizNovation program has trained over 21,000 MSME owners, agropreneurs, cooperative members and officers, and owners of tourism-related businesses.

Leo Ramos, IT manager at The Manaoag Hotel and one of the participants, said the PLDT Enterprise event was “very informative” for those who operate and manage small businesses. “We learned about the Smart Messaging Suite, which could be helpful when we need to send reminders to our clients. We can also use TikTok to promote our hotel and restaurant business,” said Ramos.

PLDT and Smart have been supporting MSMEs through upskilling programs, technology, and innovative solutions that can help grow their businesses. These initiatives reinforce the group’s commitment to help in nation-building and support UN Sustainable Development Goals 1: No Poverty; and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

From Farm to Fork:2024 National Food Fair Champions Agricultural Enterprises

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chroniclesph
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From Farm to Fork: 2024 National Food Fair Champions Agricultural Enterprises

The 2024 DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF) is not just a feast for the senses; it’s a celebration of the heart and soul of Filipino food entrepreneurship and sustainable agriculture. This year’s NFF will take place from July 3 to 7 at Megatrade Halls 1-3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in cooperation with the DTI Regional and Provincial Offices, the NFF will showcase a diverse range of products and initiatives that support local MSMEs and sustainable practices.

Empowering MSMEs from Farm to Fork

The NFF has always been a staunch supporter of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This year, the fair is proud to host over 200 MSMEs from all corners of the Philippines, each with their own unique story and a passion for sharing their culinary traditions. From Philippine wines and coffees, fresh and processed foods, to regional delicacies, the NFF will offer a true taste of the archipelago’s rich culinary heritage.

Supporting Agricultural Enterprises and Rural Development

In a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, the NFF will highlight the remarkable achievements of initiatives that demonstrate the potential for inclusive growth in the agricultural sector, particularly in the coconut industry.

Shining a spotlight on the thriving Coconut-Based MSME Cluster highlights the versatility and economic potential of this beloved Filipino crop. From coconut oil and vinegar to innovative coconut-based snacks and desserts, these MSMEs are proving that the humble coconut can be transformed into a wide range of high-value products that can be globally competitive.

Investing in the Future of Filipino Food

“The NFF is not just about celebrating Filipino cuisine; it’s about empowering our local communities and ensuring a sustainable future for our food industry,” says DTI-MSME Development Group Undersecretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque. “By supporting MSMEs and promoting sustainable practices, we are investing in the future of our country.”

Nourishing Both Body and Mind

Whether you’re a passionate foodie, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who cares about the future of Filipino food, the 2024 DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair is an event not to be missed, as it provides a platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers and partners.

To provide inspiration and learning opportunities for food entrepreneurs and home cooks, a daily program of cooking demonstrations, as well as business talks and workshops, has been lined up from July 4-7. Participation is free, both in-person and via livestream on the National Food Fair’s social media channels.

Join the DTI-BMDPO Events

Aspiring entrepreneurs can join future DTI-BMDPO fairs through their local DTI Office. They may also reach out to the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions & OTOP by sending an email to Director Marievic Bonoan at BDTP@dti.gov.ph. Stay updated by following them on Facebook (@BDTP), Twitter (@DTI_BDTP), Instagram (@dti.bdtp), YouTube (@DTI.BDTP), and TikTok (@dti.bdtp).

It’s raining deals and discounts with Beko’s Splash Into Savings rainy season promo

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chroniclesph
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With the rainy season upon us, laundry can often feel like a never-ending chore. Clothes take longer to dry, and the constant dampness can lead to unpleasant odors.

This all-too-common experience does not have to be the norm, that is why Beko, one of the leading European appliance brands is here to save the day with the Splash Into Savings Promo with discounts of up to Php 11,000 off on laundry appliances until September 30, 2024.

A large load of laundry is not a fearsome sight with the HTV9743X washer-dryer, now available for a cash price of only PHP 39,990 (PHP 10,000 discount vs. SRP of PHP 49,990). This appliance has a 9.0 kg. washing capacity and 5.0 kg. drying capacity equipped with Beko’s ProSmart Inverter technology that ensures powerful performance and energy efficiency. It also features a SteamCure Hygiene+ function, which uses sensitive temperature controls, additional rinse and spin cycles to remove microorganisms from your laundry, leaving them hygienic and sanitized.

Need to multitask? You can control and monitor this washer-dryer from anywhere in your home using the HomeWhiz smart home app through a Bluetooth Connection.

Big families will enjoy improved laundry convenience with the WCV10746M. Now priced at PHP 39,990 (PHP 10,000 savings vs. SRP of PHP 49,990), this front load washer has a 10 kg. washing capacity and 15 wash programs ranging from gentle cleaning to intensive wash. This model has a special feature called the Xpress Super Short that can wash 2 kg of laundry in just 14 minutes.

The Steam Cure Hygiene+ feature ensures quick and spotless cleaning by softening dirt on clothes, making it easier to remove. The ProSmart Inverter motor also makes the washer highly efficient and durable, with lower energy consumption and reduced sound levels. This washer can be connected to the HomeWhiz smart home app for added convenience.

Say goodbye to musty clothes with the B5T46203M front-load dryer. Now at PHP 43,990 (PHP 11,000 discount vs. SRP of PHP 54,990), this model has a 12 kg. drying capacity, 15 drying programs, and heat pump dryer technology. It also has the innovative IronFinish feature, which eliminates the need for ironing by using a unique combination of heat and steam to reduce wrinkles, ensuring crisp-looking and ready to wear clothes, from jeans, and cotton, to vibrant-colored tees. It is also equipped with a ProSmart Inverter motor, enabling quiet operation and maximizing efficiency while minimizing energy costs.

Enjoy shorter laundry time with the WTLD160D, now priced at PHP 27,990 (PHP 7,000 savings vs. SRP of PHP 34,990). This top-load washer can handle up to 16 kg. washing capacity and comes with innovative features such as the 3D Fine Wash, which uses optimized drum movements to provide thorough cleaning and keeping garments in pristine condition. With 10 wash programs ranging from standard to heavy, as well as Foam Clean technology for easier stain removal, this washer has got you covered. Plus, it runs quietly and reliably with its ProSmart Inverter motor.

For those on a budget, the WTTA1303WP is the perfect choice. This twin tub washer has a 13 kg. washing capacity and is now available for only PHP 12,740 (PHP 2,250 discount vs. SRP of PHP 14,990). It has a 7kg. spin capacity for heavy-duty loads and features innovative Ultra Dry technology that improves the drying efficiency of the spin cycle. This technology significantly reduces moisture levels in clothes, enabling faster drying even in high humidity conditions, which makes it perfect for the rainy seasons. Its Dual Tub Design is rust-proof and allows you to wash and spin-dry simultaneously, saving you time and making your laundry process more efficient.

With Beko’s reliable appliances, you can look forward to a breezier laundry time and ensure cleaner and fresher-looking clothes with every wash. Achieve the Beko State of Mind with washers and dryers that you can count on, especially this rainy season.

To know more about Beko’s Splash Into Savings promo, visit beko.ph and follow @bekoph on Facebook and Instagram.

SUN LIFE GREPA CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE WITH CLIENT APPRECIATION NIGHT

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chroniclesph
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Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), a joint venture between the Yuchengco Group of Companies (YGC) and Sun Life Philippines, recently hosted an Appreciation Night for its esteemed clients and partners. The event, held at the Marriott Hotel earlier this month, was a highlight of Sun Life Grepa’s 70th-anniversary celebrations, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history.

The Client Appreciation Event welcomed distinguished guests, including Sun Life Grepa Chairperson Helen Yuchengco-Dee (3rd from left), House of Investments, Inc. President and CEO Lorenzo V. Tan (1st from left), Sun Life Philippines CEO and Country Head Benedict Sison (4th from left), and Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim (2nd from left). This gathering was a testament to the longstanding and valued relationships that Sun Life Grepa has built over the years with its clients and partners, many of whom were in attendance during the event.

In his speech, Mr. Lim expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the company’s partners and clients, “We wish to thank our partners and clients for their unwavering support throughout the years. They have fueled our growth and success, and we are honored to be their chosen partner in securing their future. They can rest assured that we are here to support them every step of the way – as partners beyond a lifetime.”

In addition to this appreciation night, a press conference was held earlier in the year under the theme “A Journey to Brighter Futures” which highlighted how Sun Life Grepa plans to leverage new technologies and focus on nurturing relationships with clients and partners.

Introducing Shantal’s Temptation Coffee: A Symphony of Flavor and Wellness

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chroniclesph
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Introducing Shantal’s Temptation Coffee: A Symphony of Flavor and Wellness

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of Shantal’s Temptation Coffee, an exquisite blend designed to awaken your senses and enhance your well-being. This unique coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a journey of flavors and health benefits, meticulously crafted with the finest natural ingredients.

Rossel  “ Shantal” Dimayuga , Founder/CEO of At Shantal’s Beauty and Wellness Products  believes that every sip of coffee should be a moment of indulgence that also nourishes the body. “Our Shantal’s Temptation Coffee is meticulously curated to not only delight your taste buds but also support your overall well-being. This unique blend is infused with collagen and ascorbic acid, providing a powerful boost to your immune system while rejuvenating your skin Ms. Dimayuga says.”

The inviting aroma fills the air, and as you take your first sip, the smooth flavor envelops your senses. It’s more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual that sets the tone for a day filled with vitality and joy. The infusion of collagen helps to maintain the elasticity of your skin, promoting a youthful glow, while the ascorbic acid fortifies your immune system, ensuring you stay energized and resilient.

Shantal’s Temptation Coffee is not just for the mornings. Whether you’re looking for a midday pick-me-up or an evening treat, this coffee blend is your perfect companion. Each cup is crafted with care to deliver both pleasure and wellness, making it an ideal choice for any time of the day. Surrender to the temptation and embrace the luxury of a coffee that cares for you from within.

Shantal’s Temptation Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. It’s a blend that understands your need for both indulgence and nourishment. With every sip, you are treating yourself to a moment of bliss that also supports your health. This is coffee reimagined— crafted to enrich your life in ways you never thought possible.

We invite you to discover the magic of Shantal’s Temptation Coffee. Embrace the pleasures of life while nourishing your body with the goodness it deserves. Start your journey today and experience coffee like never before.

Surrender to the temptation and let Shantal’s Temptation Coffee awaken your senses, rejuvenate your skin, and boost your immune system. It’s time to make every sip count.

Shantal’s Temptation Coffee is now available at:

Shopee: https://ph.shp.ee/PMKjjXS

Website: https://shantalsbeautyandwellness.com/

It’s official! The AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 Series is coming soon in PH

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chroniclesph
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It’s official! The AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 Series is coming soon in PH

The HONOR 200 that revolutionized portrait photography is coming soon in PH!

Leading smart devices provider, HONOR, has confirmed to launch the AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 Series in the Philippines! HONOR 200 is the latest range of smartphone from the brand and stirred a lot of demand with its Four-Layer AI Architecture comprises Cross-device and Cross-OS AI, Platform-level AI, App-level AI, and Interface to Cloud-AI services.

“It is indeed official! HONOR 200 Series will arrive in the Philippines very soon so don’t dare miss our next announcements. We are beyond excited to push the boundaries of AI and deliver seamless experiences to our users,” HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng said.

HONOR 200 Series First Look

The leading smartphone in the country has started the teaser for HONOR 200 with Studio Harcourt-themed photos, a valuable partnership of the brand. The said studio is a prestigious institution in Paris that was integrated to the DSLR-killer camera of HONOR 200.

Stay tuned for HONOR’s big announcements soon. Head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Play for Life: Sun Life marks Financial Independence Month with announcement of new game and more activities

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chroniclesph
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Play for Life: Sun Life marks Financial Independence Month with announcement of new game and more activities

What if you could take your financial journey for a test drive? That’s exactly what you can do with Sun Life’s upcoming game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices, which is set to launch in June 2024. This Financial Independence Month, Sun Life is launching engaging activities that will foster financial literacy among Filipinos through gamification elements.

Embark on Your Financial Journey with Play for Life

Play for Life is a free, single-player online game that mirrors the financial decisions one encounters in real life. The objective of the game is to achieve your chosen life goals through strategic financial and life decisions while navigating the ups and downs.

At the beginning of the game, players define their life goals and select a character representing a career. Gameplay revolves around dice rolls, guiding pieces across the board to squares that correspond with the dice outcome. The board features spaces that offer life-enhancing opportunities (‘Life Wins’), present challenges (‘Life Happens’), or require critical financial decisions (‘Life Choices’), allowing players to use their accumulated funds strategically.

You win the game once you have accumulated enough play money to achieve your life goal. The journey involves managing both positive and adverse circumstances, reflecting the essence of life’s financial planning and decision-making. Step into the World of Play for Life

For a more immersive experience, there will be a roving life-size version of Play for Life in select areas around the country. Navigate giant game boards and make real-life choices at SM Megamall from June 22 to 23, 2024, SM Sta Rosa from July 27 to 28, 2024, SM Lanang in August 2024, SM Iloilo from September 14 to 15, 2024, and SM Pampanga from October 26 to 27, 2024. To engage the mobile gaming community, the initial launch of the life-size version of Play for Life will be in partnership with Talon Esports, a leading esports and gaming organization. There will also be table-top boardgame versions of Play for Life, where you can play with friends, family, and even Sun Life financial advisors.

Those interested to learn more about Sun Life’s new game, Play for Life: A Game of Choices, may visit http://sunlife.co/playforlife.

Rank Your Money Moves with Sun Life’s New TikTok Filter

Further amplifying its commitment to financial empowerment, Sun Life launched an interactive TikTok filter called “Rank Your Money Moves”. This gamified filter allows users to rank various priorities, such as love life, food, travel, and other possible money moves. Once priorities have been placed in order, the user gets a fun and playful financial personality type depending on how they ranked their money moves.

Try out Sun Life’s new TikTok filter here: https://sunlife.co/RankYourMoneyMoves

Marking 9 years of Financial Independence Month

Financial Independence Month is Sun Life’s annual campaign encouraging clients to pursue financial preparedness at every life stage. Launched in 2015, it aims to make the national celebration of Independence Day more personal and meaningful, as it centers on the pursuit of one’s brighter future.

“Financial freedom starts with a choice,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “This is why we are set to launch Play for Life: A Game of Choices. We want to equip Filipinos with the knowledge to make informed decisions on their financial journey. By making financial literacy more engaging and accessible, we hope to empower individuals to take control of their future and make life choices with confidence.”

Unleash Your Creativity and Dive into the TCL #BigScreenMoments Challenge!

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chroniclesph
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Unleash Your Creativity and Dive into the TCL #BigScreenMoments Challenge!

TCL Electronics, the Philippines’ #1 Panel TV Brand and top 2 in the Global TV market, is giving you a chance to shine at your finest. Unleash your inner actor/actress and recreate your favorite Filipino movie scenes with #BigScreenMoments! Want to win awesome prizes? Act out your most unforgettable Kathryn Bernardo scene and show us what you’ve got

Calling all film buffs and aspiring actors! Here’s your chance to take the center stage and relive your favorite Kath moments. Join the TCL #BigScreenMoments challenge and re-enact iconic lines from her hit movies! Whether it’s the kilig from “Hello, Love, Goodbye,” the wanderlust of “Barcelona,” the heartwarming story of “The Hows of Us,” or the coming-of-age drama of “A Very Good Girl,” show us your acting chops and creativity!

Post your acting masterpiece on your very own personal TikTok account, choose a special TikTok filter, tag TCL Electronics account, and include the hashtags: #TCLBigScreenMoments, #ImmersiveXperienceWithTCL.

After posting your video, don’t forget to register using the provided link: https://forms.gle/2tDzgkbWpFZd26vRA

All entries submitted from June 1st to June 30st will be eligible for the TCL draw on July 5th, and will get a chance to win exciting prizes like ten (10) TCL Soundbars S522W and Grand Prize of one (1) 65 inch TCL C655 QLED Pro TV.

Winners will be announced on July 8, 2024, and posted on TCL’s official Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/TCLPhilippines).

Lights, camera, action! Immerse yourself in the TCL Universe and unleash your creativity with #BigScreenMoments!

For more updates on the TCL #BigScreenMoments TikTok Promo, log on to https://www.facebook.com/TCLPhilippines.

Innovation for good: From malls to school halls

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chroniclesph
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Just a few short years after the first SM mall opened its doors, its founder Mr. Henry Sy Sr’s vision extended beyond one establishment. The chain of malls would come later. When SM City North EDSA opened in 1985, the vision was clear: people’s access to products is important but Filipinos’ access to quality education is priceless.

In 1991, Mr. Sy turned his vision into a reality through a milestone partnership between SM Foundation, Inc. and IBM Philippines. This collaboration led to the establishment of Asia Pacific College (APC), embodying the timeless adage: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”

“Right from the start, the vision was very clear—it was inclusivity, said APC President Dr. Teresita ‘Tata’ Medado.” “Quality education should be available to all and this was APC’s way of helping the youth to be competitive IT professionals for the industry.”

The SM group emphasized this commitment to inclusivity when the company insisted that APC operate as a non-profit and non-stock institution.

It was the ‘90s, and the boom of the information technology (IT) sector was in full swing. Countless theorizing and key innovators have alluded to interconnectivity beyond anyone’s imagination. Encapsulated in APC’s core values of industry, integrity and innovation, it became the College’s mission to educate students to become world-class with a strong IT-based foundation.

Today, APC continues its legacy of providing quality education, earning a perfect QS 5-star rating in four categories: inclusivity through a wide array of scholarships; online learning via Hyflex (Hybrid-Flexible), which emphasizes empathy, equity, and engagement; flexible teaching methods; and, employability with 92.8% of graduates securing key positions in the industry. QS Stars is a world university rating system which was developed to give educational institutions an opportunity to showcase their strengths.

The institution has upheld its legacy of inclusivity, supporting 9,300 scholars: 7,000 from public schools, 1,000 from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP), and over 1,300 from SM Foundation. Overall, APC provides scholarship support to 80% of its students, with PHP 9 million awarded in 2023 and a total of PHP 700 million in scholarships over the last 18 years.

What started with only a handful of around 15 students, today, APC has over 7,221 graduates.

Beyond SM’s scholarship program through its corporate foundation, its advocacy to promote quality education through APC also allows any accepted public-school student to pay only half of the posted tuition fee.

APC’s world-class students

Among these graduates is Mr. Rey Buyco, a former SM Scholar and cum laude graduate back in 2017. Mr. Buyco recalled that his journey, albeit tough, did not deter him to give up on achieving his dream.

Looking back, Mr. Buyco shared how his mother and he had to sleep on a cardboard box along the streets of Manila when their home burned down (due to an accident near the firecracker store they used to own).

He also remembers when Mr. Sy used to attend APC’s general assembly.

“It was very inspiring for him to do that,” he added. “It goes to show that SM really wants to help us and ignited our passion to continue our studies.”

Mr. Buyco is currently based in London, England as a senior qualified auditor for Ernst & Young.

APC’s excellence and impact to the IT industry marked another milestone with one of its alumni Mr. Rom Gapuz, whose path to success was also supported by SM and APC. A couple of months ago, Mr. Gapuz achieved the feat of becoming the first Filipino to earn all 15 Amazon Web Services (AWS) certifications including 3 already retired ones.

Mr. Gapuz and Mr. Buyco are only two of the many successful graduates of APC. In fact, from the graduating classes from 2020-2022, the employability rate of APC’s students is at 92.8% within 24 months from graduation.

“We are immensely proud of Rom and Rey,” said Dr. Medado. “Their journeys echo our core values of industry, integrity and innovation. Successes like these, with the likes of Rey and Rom, serve as inspirations not only to our students but also to us, their teachers.”

Championing education

With over 20 million enrollees this past school year 2023-2024, and classroom deficits reaching the thousands, the SM group continued its support to the educational facilities and capabilities of the country to address these challenges.

SM Foundation and SM Prime Holdings, Inc., together with the Department of Education (DepEd), partnered and have built 108 school buildings to date. With over 366 classrooms within these walls, the SM group has been able to serve 18,300 public school learners in single shift classes.

These initiatives helped close the gap between students and access to quality education, one school building at a time. As of end of 2023, the program was able to improve the average classroom-student ratio to 1:49 in schools where SM has built new buildings.

“APC was created 30-plus years ago to empower students with accessible, affordable, and quality education. Our mission stays the same today as we help more students in realizing their dreams,” Dr. Medado added.

Motivated by APC’s positive impacts on the education sector, Mr. Henry Sy Sr. was driven to further build on this advocacy of SM in championing education.

Beauty Goes Green! L’Oréal and Watsons Partner for First PH Green Business Plan

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chroniclesph
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L’Oréal and Watsons today announced the kickoff of the first Green Joint Business Plan in the Philippines to accelerate sustainability in the beauty and wellness sectors. L’Oréal and Watsons are joining forces to create programs that will help tackle plastic waste, raise awareness on sustainable choices, and provide livelihood opportunities for the vulnerable population in the Philippines.

“This first green joint business plan in the Philippines is a historic milestone in the longstanding partnership between L’Oréal and Watsons in the Philippines. Beyond our responsible business practices, I’m very proud that we are coming together to be catalysts for change by acting with urgency and helping solve the pressing environmental and social issues in the Philippines. It’s the right thing to do,” said Yannick Raynaud, Country Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines.

Danilo Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons in the Philippines also shared his support to the partnership. “At Watsons we have updated our brand promise from LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT to LOOK GOOD, DO GOOD, FEEL GREAT to signify our strong commitment to do more sustainable practices. This first ever green joint business plan is a comprehensive approach to driving collective impact to our planet, our people, and products. I am inspired by the work we are doing with L’Oréal and the positive impact that we can drive in the Philippines, and hope that programs like this can inspire other companies to do what is right for the environment.”

Plastic pollution is a major challenge in the Phillippines. In 2022, the Philippine government implemented the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)[1] Bill for the recovery and management of post-consumer recycled plastic. In 2023, L’Oréal has recovered, upcycled, and recycled 100% of its plastic volume in the Philippines, exceeding the 20% target set by the government for the 1st year of implementation.

With the Green Joint Business Plan, L’Oréal, through its sustainability program L’Oréal for the Future, and Watsons, with its brand promise to “Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great”, are accelerating collective transformation towards a business model that respects planetary boundaries, empowers the business ecosystem, and reinforces commitments to drive inclusive growth.

The joint collaboration programs include:

  • The Recycle for Rewards program led by Garnier, a brand under the L’Oréal Groupe. Consumers are encouraged to donate empty beauty and wellness bottles at select Watsons stores to get discounts. The initiative starts on May 6 in 23 participating Watsons stores in Metro Manila this year.
  • To help consumers make sustainable choices, L’Oréal is ramping up the listing of products under Watsons’ Sustainable Choices category with products that are refillable, made with recycled content and sustainable paper and with ingredients that are from bio-based, abundant, or circular processes. An example of this is Garnier’s Micellar water that is made of 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET plastic (R-PET). Cartons used in L’Oréal’s packaging are made of FSC-certified paper.
  • All point-of-sale materials (POSMs) used by L’Oréal in Watsons stores are 100% eco-designed. They follow the 3R strategy that involves reducing the weight of products and packaging by designing them with smaller dimensions and lighter materials whenever possible. Additionally, L’Oréal aims to replace traditional materials with alternatives that have a better environmental footprint, making them more suitable for reuse and recyclability.
  • Watsons is also supporting L’Oréal’s Digital Beauty Academy, a social inclusion program that provides training on beauty, wellness, and social commerce with the goal of equipping individuals with valuable skills to thrive in the digital space and gain livelihood opportunities.
  • L’Oréal will support Watsons’ Alagang Pangkalusugan medical and wellness program, that aims to uplift overall wellbeing of vulnerable communities. The Alagang Pangkalusugan program will extend to Metro Manila, Palawan, Bacolod, Iloilo, Pampanga this year.
  • L’Oréal is upskilling brand ambassadors and staff of Watsons on sustainability and conscious consumption, utilizing the L’Oreal for the Future e-learning module.

Under its L’Oréal For the Future commitments, L’Oréal will transition 100% of plastic used in its packaging to be recycled or bio-sourced by 2030.  L’Oréal is also working for 95% of its product ingredients to be derived from bio-based sources, abundant minerals or from circular processes by 2030.

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