Kwento Ni Toto: updates

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Monday, May 6, 2024

Unveiling the excitement with Timezone's largest venue at U.P. Town Center

Toto 11:37:00 PM

I vividly recall the days when U.P. Town Center was still finding its shape, and Timezone was just in a small corner where kids and teens gather after school for a dose of fun. For someone who once a student, I understand the exhaustion that comes with school hours, and having a place like Timezone to unwind was a blessing.

Fast forward to April 26, 2024, Timezone unveiled its newest and largest venue at U.P. Town Center in Diliman, promising an enhanced entertainment experience for visitors of all ages. Spanning a spacious 1,535-square-meter area, this upgraded facility replaces its former location, boasting more games, larger spaces, and unique attractions.

The grand opening showcased a line up of new and innovative games and attractions, including the highly anticipated Minecraft Dungeon Arcade and state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences like Sailor Quest VR and HALO Fireteam Raven. Racing enthusiasts were thrilled with the addition of Asphalt 9DX Motion, while basketball lovers could indulge in the All-Star Basketball machine and NBA Hoops games.

Beyond arcade games, Timezone U.P. Town Center offers a range of activities, including bowling, bumper cars, billiards, and music zones. The Prize Shop adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing guests to redeem unique prizes with their game points. Additionally, the venue features two party rooms, perfect for hosting birthday parties and special events.

Timezone's legacy of innovation and quality spans over two decades, with the brand becoming a staple in family entertainment across the Philippines. The new U.P. Town Center location continues this tradition, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors.

General Manager Ydonna Alvendia highlights Timezone's role in enhancing the mall experience, providing an engaging alternative to shopping and dining. Regular guests eagerly anticipate the grand opening promotions, including special Powerload packages and exclusive prizes.

During the event, attendees were treated to an on-the-spot cheering squad competition, adding to the festive atmosphere. Present at that time were celebreties from Viva and GMA Sparkle. Placed under the red team, the group shared the stage with Ms. Andrea Del Rosario of Viva. This brought back nostalgic memories, particularly of my cheering squad days.

The sheer size of the venue ensures that there's always a game to play, regardless of the crowd. Personally, I enjoy basketball, billiards, ticket-dispensing games, and the excitement of clawing stuffed toys.

Timezone U.P. Town Center offers an unmatched entertainment experience, catering to families and friends seeking quality leisure activities. Whether it's a casual outing or a special celebration, Timezone promises fun and excitement for all. Join us at the grand opening and embark on a journey into a world of endless fun and entertainment.

Sunday, May 5, 2024

updates

ML Express Unlock Opportunities, start your journey today!

Toto 9:37:00 AM

In the heart of every Filipino community lies a network of individuals committed to fostering financial inclusion and accessibility. ML Express, an extension of the trusted M Lhuillier brand, embodies this ethos, offering a seamless platform for money transfer services across the Philippines. As someone keen on making a tangible difference in your locality while delving into the world of entrepreneurship, venturing into the ML Express business could be your next step towards empowering your community and yourself.

ML Express prides itself on its expansive network, comprising not only over 3,000 M Lhuillier branches but also accredited ML Express Business Partners strategically located nationwide. These partners serve as beacons of financial assistance, particularly in remote areas where access to traditional banking services may be limited. With ML Express, sending and receiving money becomes a hassle-free experience, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the journey towards financial security.

Becoming an ML Express Business Partner is not just about entrepreneurship; it's about joining a movement towards greater financial inclusivity. With the ML Kwarta Padala system at your fingertips, all you need is a tablet and an ML Wallet to kickstart your journey. Gone are the days of long commutes to the nearest bank branch – as an ML Express Business Partner, you bring essential financial services right to your community's doorstep.

The allure of entrepreneurship often comes with daunting financial barriers, but ML Express seeks to change that narrative. The ML Express Package offers a comprehensive set of tools to jumpstart your venture, including an initial fund of P25,000 loaded into your ML Wallet, essential equipment like a tablet with a keyboard and mouse, a Wi-Fi printer, and robust marketing collateral. What's more, there are no franchising, royalty, or annual fees, making this opportunity even more accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs.

The process of becoming an accredited ML Express Business Partner is straightforward yet empowering. Begin by filling out the inquiry form on the ML Express website, providing essential details about your business aspirations. Once your inquiry is received, an ML Express Officer will guide you through the accreditation process, ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in place, from your company profile to valid identification cards.

Upon accreditation, it's time to make your investment – a testament to your commitment to fostering financial inclusion in your community. Remit the investment amount of P99,000 to M Lhuillier and collect your start-up package, complete with the essentials to kickstart your ML Express venture. With your ML Wallet loaded with P25,000 as a start-up operating fund, you're ready to embark on your journey as an ML Express Business Partner.

Dressing up your site with ML Express marketing items is the final touch, signaling to your community that you're open for business and ready to serve their financial needs. From here on, the possibilities are endless – whether you're assisting customers with send-out transactions or facilitating seamless money transfers, every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact in your community.

As you contemplate embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, it's natural to harbor questions and uncertainties. Rest assured, ML Express is more than just a business opportunity – it's a supportive community committed to your success. With dedicated support channels for Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, help is always just a call or email away. Whether you're seeking guidance on technical matters or looking for marketing support, the ML Express team is here to assist you every step of the way.

The decision to become an ML Express Business Partner transcends mere entrepreneurship; it's a testament to your commitment to empowering your community and yourself. With ML Express, financial inclusivity is not just a lofty ideal – it's a tangible reality within your grasp. So, why wait? Seize the opportunity to make a difference and embark on a journey of empowerment with ML Express today.

For more information on how to become an ML Express Business Partner, contact ML Express through the following channels:

Luzon

v Email: mlx.luzon@mlhuillier.com
Smart: 0947-999-9353
Globe: 0917-805-1765 / 0917-800-3056

Visayas and Mindanao

Email: mlx.vismin@mlhuillier.com
Smart: 0947-999-9352
Globe: 0917-811-6304
Empower your community. Join ML Express today.

Saturday, May 4, 2024

updates

Celebrate Mom with Easy Filipino Flavors from Purefoods Ready-to-Eat!

Toto 9:19:00 PM

As we get ready for Mother's Day, it's time to show our moms some extra love. Instead of stressing over cooking, why not make her a delicious homemade meal without all the fuss? Try Purefoods Heat & Eat Viands for easy-to-make dishes like Bistek Tagalog and Chicken Meatballs. It's a simple way to make your mom feel cherished and special this Mother's Day.

Remember those moments when your mom poured her love into every homecooked meal she served? Now, it's your turn to give back that same love through her favorite dishes. Imagine the joy of serving up slow-cooked, flavorful meals that require just minutes to prepare. Whether you're a busy parent juggling work and family responsibilities or simply want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying moments with loved ones, these convenient viands offer a solution that doesn't compromise on taste or quality.

Preparing a delicious meal with Purefoods H&E Viands is as easy as 1, 2, 3. Simply heat the dish over the stove or pop it in the microwave for 8-10 minutes, and you're ready to enjoy a hearty and wholesome feast. Add your favorite veggies to complement the flavors and elevate the dish to new heights of culinary delight. What's more, they offer a diverse range of ulam options, making meal planning a breeze. Whether your mom prefers traditional Filipino favorites or craves something a bit more adventurous, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Bring a delightful and surprising twist to classic Filipino dishes by following these recipes from the HomeFoodie website and create a Sweet and Sour Meatball or an elevated Bistek Stroganoff.

SWEET & SOUR MEATBALLS Ingredients:

2 packs (250 g each) PUREFOODS
HEAT & EAT CHICKEN MEATBALLS
2 cups cooking oil
Sauce:
1 pc (50 g) red onion, quartered
1 can (227 g) pineapple chunks, drained
1/2 cup cane vinegar
1 cup sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 cup banana ketchup
2 tbsp cornstarch, dissolved in 1 cup water
1/2 tsp iodized fine salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Procedure:
Fry meatballs in a deep pan with hot oil for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels and set aside.

In a saucepan, add 2 tbsp used oil. Sauté onion, then add remaining ingredients. Stir continuously until mixture simmers and thickens. Adjust seasonings as needed.

Add cooked meatballs and simmer once.

Makes 4-5 servings
(Yield: 20-24 pc/4 pc per serving)

This Mother's Day, instead of spending hours in the kitchen, take the opportunity to savor quality time with your mom and family. With Purefoods Heat & Eat, you can focus on creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Available in leading supermarkets, groceries nationwide, and online through San Miguel Mart, Lazada, or Shopee, bringing a taste of home to your Mother's Day celebration has never been easier.

Celebrate the special women in your life with Purefoods Ready-to-Eat and make this Mother's Day one to remember. After all, when quality time is made easy, every moment becomes an opportunity to show your love and appreciation.

updates

Emille Joson: Behind the Lens and the Label of Sex Symbolism

Toto 1:16:00 PM

There's a new sex symbol in town, and everyone can't stop googling her... The film industry has a new rising star, and her name is Emille Joson. From sweeping film awards to garnering international attention, Joson has captured the hearts and admiration of audiences worldwide. Her journey from acclaimed filmmaker to unexpected sex symbol has not only sparked curiosity but also raised questions about the intersection of talent, beauty, and public perception.

Joson's rise to prominence began with the streaming resurgence of her acclaimed campy horror short film "Adivino" during the #MeToo Movement. Critics and Hollywood celebrities alike praised her talent, catapulting her into the spotlight and attracting a flurry of attention on social media platforms.

While Joson's talent and credentials are undeniable, it's her charismatic sex appeal that has also garnered significant attention. From modeling invitations to inclusion on top sexiest lists, Joson has become a focal point of admiration for many. However, amidst the accolades and attention, Joson remains grounded, expressing gratitude for the recognition while emphasizing the importance of being valued for her contributions to the industry rather than her appearance alone.

In a recent interview, Joson shared her thoughts on being labeled as a sex symbol: "I'm very flattered, of course, but I prefer being seen through timeless stuff like things I contributed in the industry rather than how I look." Her humility and focus on her craft highlight her dedication to filmmaking and desire to leave a lasting impact on the industry.

Beyond her work in film, Joson is also known for her advocacy and involvement in her family's business, Alaga Producers Cooperative. Her commitment to social responsibility and charity work further exemplifies her multifaceted talents and character

Joson's journey as a filmmaker has not been without its challenges, but her resilience and passion have propelled her to success. From acclaimed projects like "Sakaling Hindi Makarating" to her award-winning screenplay for "Pagari: Mohammad Abdullah," Joson's body of work showcases her versatility and storytelling prowess.

As she continues to navigate her career, Joson remains focused on her passion for filmmaking and her desire to make a meaningful impact in the industry. Despite the label of sex symbol, Joson's true beauty lies in her dedication to her craft and her commitment to creating stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the film industry, Emille Joson stands as a testament to the power of talent, determination, and authenticity. As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, googling, and eagerly awaiting her next cinematic masterpiece.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

updates

The Future of Farming

Toto 6:56:00 PM

While modern agricultural techniques boost yields for some, there remains a number of Filipino farmers who struggle to keep pace. These experienced hands find themselves falling behind in a market demanding higher production, clinging to familiar yet often inefficient methods passed down through generations.

One farmer from Pampanga, Jayson Garcia, sought to disrupt this prevailing narrative in his family. He knew that he had to chart a new course forward for his farm and innovate to remain competitive within the rapidly evolving landscape of modern agriculture.

Jayson and Juanito proudly showcase a selection of produce at the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market.

“Noon, mahirap ang magtanim,” he recalled their life before joining SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan. “Para bang tsambahan, basta pag itinanim mo ‘yan, hintayin mo na lang mamunga. Mas mahirap pa lalo kapag nagkaroon ng kalamidad,” he added.

SM Foundation’s training program focused on high-value crop cultivation was the breakthrough Garcia needed to revitalize his farming techniques. These included selecting the best seeds and caring for them as well as strategic planting schedules.

Jayson attends the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market to observe best practices and gain insights into new agricultural techniques.

The livelihood program also gave way for him to discover alternative sales channels that enhanced his earning potential while extending fair prices to his customers. The knowledge and confidence he gained led him to expand his farm, and in effect, increased his monthly income to more than Php25,000.

Aside from directly selling his harvests, he is now planting a variety of vegetables–on his farm, including lemongrass, malunggay, and madre de cacao, which he sells online to small businesses that process the produce into other products.

Embracing new techniques

Sharing the same story of hope is another KSK farmer from Pampanga, Juanito Dela Cruz. Despite his age, he actively pursued and adopted modern farming techniques. Building on his current success, he shared the importance of adaptability for farmers, calling for others to try and explore new practices.

From a modest monthly income of Php10,000, Juanito experienced an upsurge in his earnings, notably through participation in the Weekend Market at SM City Clark, yielding around Php30,000 weekly. “Kailangan maging bukas tayo sa makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsasaka para makahabol tayo sa demands ng panahon ngayon—ito ang itinuo sa akin ng SM Foundation-KSK,” he said.

Juanito, alongside his wife, actively participates in the SM City Clark Weekend Market. They credit the market with contributing to their increased profitability.

The SM Group’s KSK program has changed the lives of roughly 30,000 Filipino farmers, including Jayson and Juanito. Through its initiatives, farmers who once lost hope have been able to embrace modern farming techniques, leading to adaptability in the face of the evolving agricultural landscape.

The SM Group, through SM Foundation, remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors to be led by its future smart city property development – with focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates. ###

Urban Planning

All within 15 minutes: Urban planning concept city to rise in Pasay

Toto 6:48:00 PM

For the modern urban dweller, 15 minutes is a lot of time.

A lot of productive things can be done – a high-intensity, interval training (HITT) workout or run a 1.5-kilometer route, clearing your emails, meditating, catching up on the news, or preparing a quick smoothie – all within 15 minutes.

But for the Metro Manila commuter, 15 minutes is barely enough to get from point A to point B. During rush hour, it is most likely that within this time, you still haven’t moved an inch.

Ever heard of the 15-minute city? It’s a modern urban planning concept that puts people and the planet first. The term was coined by Paris-based urbanist and Sorbonne University professor Carlos Moreno wherein he said that the ideal neighborhood or city is built in such a way where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities can be easily accessed within 15 minutes, whether by foot or by using a bike.

An artist’s render of a 15-minute city, where work, food, housing, education and cultural activities are easily within reach.

Pasay City, in its forward-looking 360-hectare smart city development, aims to create an innovative tropical 15-minute city for over 300,000 residents.

Situated at the edge of a densely-packed and overpopulated metropolis perpetually in a traffic gridlock, this city will provide respite to its residents and visitors with sustainable, inclusive, safe, and healthy living where all their needs can be accessed within reach.

Among its intended features, the project is envisioned to have low carbon and safe mobility networks with multimodal public transport services and enhanced infrastructure that prioritizes active mobility like walking and biking. There will be parking lots equipped with electric vehicle charging stations, dedicated bike lanes, easily accessible public transport hubs, and unimpeded pedestrian walkways.

An artist’s rendition of a soon-to-rise 15-minute city in Pasay

This assures lower transportation costs, less carbon emissions, and most importantly, healthier and happier people. No more long and tiring queues at the EDSA bus carousel or sitting hours on end in the middle of EDSA traffic.

The project has been thoughtfully planned and designed for many years, and finally it has received the green light by government to proceed. In fact, no less than Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda highlighted how the Pasay-led project is expected to earn billions in real estate assets for the government.

Revenues from the project will generate a massive multiplier effect on our gross domestic product (GDP) and an estimated 300,000 new jobs from 2027 to 2040. By 2035, it is projected to employ 4% of the National Capital Region’s (NCR) total work force.

The Pasay 360 Project will be a city that nurtures lives and livelihood, is expected to revitalize the economy, and hone the next generation of Filipino leaders. It can be a source of pride for Filipinos as we push towards the 22nd century.

Venue

Filipinos Face Concert Venue Challenges

Toto 6:38:00 PM

Countries with large and competitive concert venues are seeing economic boosts thanks to big-name international acts like Taylor Swift and Coldplay. These concerts draw huge crowds and spur spending, with fans traveling far and wide for the experience.

Take Southeast Asia, for example. When Taylor Swift brought her Eras Tour to Singapore's National Stadium, it wasn't just locals filling the seats. Fans from the Philippines and beyond made the journey, pumping money into the local economy. The same happened in Japan's Tokyo Dome and Australia's Accor Stadium when Coldplay took the stage.

These concerts aren't just about the music—they're about the money. They give a boost to industries like entertainment, hospitality, retail, and transportation. So it's no wonder countries are vying to attract big-name acts and build venues to host them.

1. Location is key

The Philippines doesn’t lack in big venues. In fact, it boasts of venues that can rival Singapore’s National Stadium and Japan’s Tokyo Dome. Accessibility to the location as well as public transportation and nearby commercial establishments are key.

2. Concert Experience

Photo credit to Stanley Quek. An empty Singapore National Stadium, viewed from the front stage.

Singapore’s pride, the National Stadium, has innovative features such as the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof and comfort cooling technology for spectators’ convenience. Its innovation, strategic location, and efficiency bring positive and immersive experiences for enthusiasts and concert fans, making it a magnet for entertainment acts from all over the world. A similar concert venue and experience is something that Filipino concertgoers are hoping the country can replicate.

3. World-class concert amenities and facilities

Accessing the venue's amenities and facilities should offer a premium music experience for concert enthusiasts or convenience in a sporting event.

Architectural “Eyecon” SM Mall of Asia Arena prides itself on having exceptional world-class amenities unique in the Southeast Asia region. –Photo from SM MOA Arena official website

FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 held in SM Mall of Asia Arena – Photo from SM MOA Arena official website

Take for example the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena – a flexible indoor arena developed in 2012 by leading integrated property developer SM Prime – that has been a top-of-mind venue for all sorts of events and offers a unique concert experience. With a full house seating capacity of 20,000, it has been a haven for thrilling sports events, remarkable OPM shows, and unforgettable international superstar performances.

Meanwhile, the SMDC Festival Grounds in Parañaque City is likewise an enormous outdoor venue that can accommodate at least 50,000 people. Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour and Rivermaya The Reunion were among the performers that have graced the stage recently.

4. Achieving Filipinos’ concert dreams

One of the most forward-looking plans of SM Prime is its 360-hectare smart city development which is envisioned to bring in a centerpiece to the country’s entertainment and sporting events – larger in capacity and a more enhanced venue infrastructure that would attract legendary icons in the entertainment scene and compete against Southeast Asia and the world’s best. It will feature an estimated 70,000-capacity stadium and concert arena connected to one of the island’s main destination paradises called Central Park. The sizable arena is envisioned to be the Philippines’ biggest concert venue, with world-class facilities and sustainable features, comparable to other big concert venues worldwide. Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.

An artist’s render, visual sketch of the proposed concert venue at Pasay 360 project.

Without a doubt, Pinoys live and breathe entertainment shows. In fact, Filipinos are the 4th top concert spenders in Asia-Pacific according to digital payments company Visa, proof of how passionate we are about concerts. By investing in the development of modern, smart, and accessible concert venues, Filipino concert enthusiasts can continue to embrace and celebrate live performances with the convenience, comfort, and enjoyment they deserve. Beyond entertainment, well-curated, smart, and innovative concert facilities can further drive economic benefits to the Philippines’ national and local economies, including ancillary local spending in retail, tourism, and hospitality.

Urban Development Sparks Job Growthh

Urban Development Sparks Job Growth

Toto 6:00:00 PM

Photo credit to Anamul Rezwan. Construction jobs are generated from new urban developments.

Cities globally, despite their differences in people and culture, are united in their quest for advancement through fresh urban initiatives. These endeavors don't just streamline life in bustling urban centers but also fuel local economies and societies through activities like job opportunities.

From modern transit systems to state-of-the-art commercial hubs and towering residential complexes, every new development demands a multitude of roles from inception to finish. This encompasses everything from real estate visionaries and urban planners to construction crews and material providers, necessitating tight teamwork for project fruition.

Hudson Yards: Direct and indirect employment opportunities

Photo credit to Following NYC. Featuring ‘Vessel’, a honeycomb-like structure and visitor attraction in the Hudson Yards Development in Manhattan, New York City.

The cycle of job creation doesn’t stop after completion. A new development also drives indirect employment opportunities generated from industries attracted or related to the development.

Such is the case for Hudson Yards, New York City’s 28-acre mixed-use development and considerably the United States’ biggest megadevelopment in history. It had created thousands of construction jobs that resulted in transforming Manhattan’s iconic skyline and becoming home to diverse shops, offices, cultural institutions, and hotels and residences. Ongoing operations and management of these facilities are expected to contribute to its large-scale economy, such as hosting over 55,752 workers daily and about $19 billion annually to the city’s GDP.

Dubai and Songdo IBD: Creating economic opportunities afresh

Meanwhile, cities like Dubai and Songdo International Business District (IBD) generate jobs by creating economic opportunities from the ground up. They used land reclamation as an urban development strategy to address land scarcity and high population density challenges.

Photo credit to Kadir Avşar. A closer aerial view of the Palm Islands.

Dubai's ambitious projects, including the Palm Islands, the World Islands, and Burj Al Arab, have turned it into an ultramodern metropolis for commerce and tourism. In 2023, it drew over 30,000 new businesses, driving demand for talent in finance, legal, and digital technology sectors.

The Songdo IBD is an ongoing smart city built on reclaimed land in Incheon, South Korea. It’s designed to be an international business and residential hub with sustainable features. As of 2020, the 1,500-acre development hosts about 30,000 residents, 33,000 jobs, and 70% fewer emissions than any other development.

SM’s Integrated City Developments: Empowering local communities and residents

SM Prime contributed photo. An aerial view of SM Mall of Asia (MOA) featuring its iconic Globamaze and thriving network of retail, business, residential, and hotel developments.

The SM Group, a leading conglomerate in the Philippines, has an ecosystem of interests spanning retail, banking, property, and mall developments across the country, making it the largest employer with over 140,000 employees.

For every SM mall development by SM Prime Holdings, the integrated property developer of the Group, the local economy is invigorated because of the opportunities created by supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that comprise about 68% of its mall tenants. For instance, SM City Bataan, SM Supermalls’ 83rd mall, employs about 96% of its mall administration staff who are residents called Bataeños, including two in leadership roles. It also proudly showcases local industries by partnering with homegrown businesses like family-owned brands and locally managed franchises.

Job security, stable income, and tax revenues contribute to the local workforce’s quality of life; and SM Prime ensures to manifest these waves of progress in its developments, especially in its future plans for smart cities in the Philippines to be spearheaded by its ongoing 360-hectare development in Pasay City.

New urban developments are catalysts for growth, innovation, and avenues for increased prosperity, shaping local economies through job creation and improved lives. The success of these city centers requires a network of opportunities – from its pre-construction supply chain to empowering businesses for individuals to thrive and contribute to the communities.

updates

Empowering the Deaf: School Renovation Project Unlocks Opportunities

Toto 4:21:00 PM

Living with hearing impairment presents its own set of challenges, especially in a world where verbal communication reigns supreme. In the Philippines, these challenges are magnified, leading to limited opportunities for the deaf, especially in education and employment.

Secondary educational institutions that cater to the needs of the hearing-impaired are scarce in the Philippines. Those that do exist often face issues of affordability and inadequate facilities, making it even more difficult for deaf individuals to access the education they deserve.

A dedicated teacher from PSD provides a hands-on lecture inside their newly rehabilitated school building.

A personal advocacy

Shery Funcion, the Principal of the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City, is no stranger to these challenges.

Her dedication to the cause began with her college thesis, focusing on job opportunities for deaf learners. Since then, she has immersed herself in various organizations and volunteer activities, gaining firsthand insights into the limited opportunities available to deaf learners.

She eventually became a SPED teacher, before taking on the role of principal in PSD.

"The immersive experience really showed me how important these projects are for our students—kung gaano kahalaga ang pagbibigay ng mga pasilidad sa mga mag aaral lalo na sa mga bingi," she underscored the importance of providing facilities for students with hearing impairment.

A facility that produces opportunities

The collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City equips students with in-demand skills that will prepare them for employment upon graduation.

In the century-old PSD, their senior high school laboratory building serves as the training ground for students. Its classrooms and halls, no matter how old, have always played their role in honing and preparing deaf students to have solid career prospects after PSD.

Amidst the competing priorities within the school and the broader Philippine educational system, the facility barely had enough funds for the rehabilitation and major repairs it needed. For years, students and teachers worked around issues ranging from dim lighting and leaking roofs to uneven floors. These not only presented structural concerns but also hindered the overall learning experience of students.

"Our deaf learners need special accommodation to fulfill their special educational needs. They need to have a conducive learning environment so we can optimize the activities and learning programs," Funcion stressed.

Funcion further shared that the 2023 collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI)—the social good arm of the SM Group, and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City could not have come at a better time.

"The rehabilitation of the Home Economics (HE) laboratories is crucial because students need to fulfill their performance tasks. These are vital components of our senior high school program to ensure that they acquire essential skills and competencies for employment post-graduation from PSD."

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food and beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.

For Funcion, their Henry Sy. Sr. building serves as a great beginning that will help pave equal opportunities and create a future where deaf students’ abilities will shine within and beyond the four walls of classrooms.

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.

Sunday, April 28, 2024

updates

HONOR Magic6 Pro: Top AI Camera Phone Launching in PH!

Toto 11:14:00 PM

HONOR, a prominent smart devices provider, is introducing the HONOR Magic6 Pro in the Philippines. This device has garnered significant recognition, receiving five DXOMARK Gold Labels for Camera, Battery, Display, Selfie, and Audio. It continues to maintain its leading position in the Global Ranking of DXOMARK Best Camera Phones worldwide.

"The HONOR Magic6 Pro is a delightful treat for our HONOR fans and consumers seeking camera phones capable of capturing their desired "money shots." Recognized by DXOMARK five times for its spectacular specs, we're proud to be known for our quality products, consistently serving Filipinos with only the latest and best innovations in the market," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

In response to the dynamic landscape of sportography and the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in photography, HONOR has embarked on a journey of continuous innovation, recognizing the demand for fast capture speeds and superior image quality. HONOR has proactively invested in enhancing its camera capabilities to meet and exceed user expectations.

Moreover, the HONOR Magic6 Series stands as a testament to this commitment, embodying a fusion of cutting-edge hardware and intelligent software. At its core lies the AI-powered Pro-grade Falcon Camera System, meticulously engineered to elevate the photography experience to new heights.

Complementing this innovation is the industry-first Customized HDR Sensor, endowed with an ultra-large dynamic range and an expansive variable aperture. This sensor empowers users to capture scenes with unprecedented fidelity, preserving the nuances of light and shadow in every shot. Moreover, the integration of AI technology enables the camera system to intelligently optimize settings in real-time, ensuring that every photo is a masterpiece.

In May, the eagerly awaited HONOR Magic6 Pro will be fully unveiled, presenting its industry-leading specifications. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch!

The HONOR Magic6 Pro will be available for pre-order soon, you may access the product once live at Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_M6Pro_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/Shop_M6Pro_PR, and Tiktok Shop.

For more updates on the spectacular specs of the HONOR Magic6 Pro, follow through 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://bit.ly/Web_M6Pro_PR.

UPLB

SM Prime's Sustainability Scholarship: Investing in Future Leaders

Toto 9:30:00 PM

Henry Sy Sr.'s legacy of valuing education lives on through SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), as they collaborate with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to introduce the "SM Sustainability Scholarship."

Future sustainability leaders. Strengthening its commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship, SM Prime welcomes ten scholars from UPLB, who are taking up degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

This scholarship program not only underscores SM Prime's dedication to educational opportunities but also emphasizes their commitment to sustainable practices.

Video courtesy of SM Prime

The program will fully support ten deserving students through their undergraduate studies at UPLB, providing them with the opportunity to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields align with SM Prime's focus on building resilient communities and fostering a sustainable future.

The scholarship recipients, meticulously chosen for their academic excellence and dedication to sustainability, were formally recognized during a meet-and-greet gathering at UPLB, marking the start of their journey as SM Sustainability Scholars.

SM Sustainability Scholarship. In the photo are the SM sustainability scholars with the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Office of Scholarships and Grants Director Assoc. Prof. Ariel L. Babierra, Ph.D., College of Forestry and Natural Resources’s Prof. Marilyn Combalicer, College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr, Janette Malata-Silva, Scholarship Affairs Officer Ivy Salarde and SM Prime AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo with the rest of the SM team.

Each scholar will receive a full scholarship covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and a book allowance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without financial worries.

During the gathering, College of Human Ecology (CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo expressed that the pursuit of sustainability is most effectively undertaken collaboratively.

“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability,” she said.

“I would also like to thank SM Prime for putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders,” she added.

College of Forestry and Natural Resources’ Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza: “We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond.”

SM Prime’s AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo meets the SM sustainability scholars.

Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications, Rida Reyes-Castillo, echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability.

“SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community,” she said. “The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.”

For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment go hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.