Author: Thoney Pascual

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The 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024

The 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 press conference recently concluded with great success, bringing together an exceptional lineup of notable personalities and businesses. Held on December 8, 2024 at Winford Resort and Casino Manila Ballroom Halls 1-3, the event set the tone for the much-anticipated awards night, scheduled to take place on *December 8, 2024*, at the *Winford Resort and Casino Manila Ballroom Halls 1-3.*

This prestigious gathering highlighted the excellence and achievements of Southeast Asia’s leading professionals and organizations. Among the prominent attendees were *Derwen Lipardo* of Gown and Events Management by Touting, *Lae Mañego*, renowned as Asia’s Queen of Fire, and a representative from *JP’s Catering Services*. Prestigious businesses were well-represented, including *Genuine Diamonds PH*, led by Mariel Nicole Santiago; *Kylledmed Philippines*, represented by Dr. Patrick Saburit; *Viomix Philippines*, led by Fatima Gallos; *MJ-AM Trading*, headed by Jaclyn Kate Tolete; and *Better Boneless*, under the leadership of Cheska Costes. Adding further prestige to the event was the presence of *Atty. Persida V. Rueda-Acosta*, recognized as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Filipina Lawyer.

The press conference also highlighted the invaluable support of this year’s sponsors, who have helped bring this momentous event to life. Sponsors included *JP Catering Services*(Golden Awardee) recognized as the Premier Business Remarkable Events Catering Services; *Genuine Diamonds PH*, recognized as the Premier Business Outstanding Natural Diamond Jewelry Provider; *Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services* (Golden Awardee), acknowledged as the Premier Business Excellent Roll-Up Door Fabrication Company; *Salvacion Paparon* (Golden Achiever), honored as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Roll-Up Door Business Owner; *Intele Builders and Development Corporation*, distinguished as the Premier Business Outstanding Telecommunication Company; *Lucky GHL Advertising* (Golden Awardee), awarded as the Premier Business Marketing Service of the Year; *JFBV* (Golden Awardee), celebrated for being the Premier Business Remarkable Advertising of the Year;  *NWOW International Trading Corp.*, hailed as the Premier Business Outstanding No.1 Electric Vehicle/E-bike Brand; *Capitol Medical Center Inc.*, acknowledged as the Premier Outstanding Healthcare Provider; *Viomix Philippines*, recognized for its Premier Korean Coffee Supplies. And *Kylledmed Philippines*, recognized for being the Premier Business Trusted Healthcare Products Supplier.

The event celebrated an impressive selection of remarkable achievers and businesses across various categories. Among the distinguished award recipients are: Salvacion Paparon (Golden Achiever), Wej Cudiamat (Golden Achiever), Carlo Lorenzo, Jamin Lim (Golden Achiever), Braggy Braganza (Golden Achiever), Lae Manego (Golden Achiever), Dennis Antennor Jr. (Golden Achiever), Annabelle Surara (Golden Achiever), Shirley B. Belangel CPA, MBA (Golden Achiever), D. Edgard A. Cabangon, Conrado Cagas Tacgos Jr. (Golden Achiever), Bon Jheo Exconde (Golden Achiever), Janice Delima, Dr. Elva Evasco-Auza, DJ Mama Colleen, DJ Kuya Machete, Edwin Lisa, Freddie Aguilar, Richard James B. Merk, Conelen Cariño, Ravve Jay Prevendido (Golden Achiever) , Mherie Vic Palomo Prevendido (Golden Achiever), Jos Garcia , Ira Patricia Malaluan , Julia Mendoza , Usec. Robert Rivera, Nerlisa Elyza Francisco Rivera, Jeff Madarang , Rogelio Constantino Medina ,Audrey Gorriceta (Golden Achiever) ,Hagibis , Jane Darren Genobisa ,Cindy Madduma (Golden Achiever) , Marc Logan, Keyrol Cabuso (Golden Achiever), Dr. Patrick Saburit, Catherine Veluz-Zeta, Hon. Saleha Pangarungan Sacar, Earlo Bringas, Gilbert de los Santos, Jigo Postolero, William Jones , Angelo Estera, Hazel May E. Baliguian, LPT, MAED CULED, Miles Ocampo, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, General Rhodel Orden Sermonia, Isko Moreno, Ambet R. Nabus, Dominic Almelor, Gretchen Fullido, Dr. Jesus Recasata, Jr., M.D. FPAPRAS, Andrew de Real, MC & Lassy, Michael Pangilinan, Bugoy Drilon, Daryl Ong, Jona , Atasha Muhlach, Andres Muhlach, Niño Myrrh C. Tarinay a.k.a NMTV, Ishaku Ishaya Monday aka Kuya Isaac Sabaw, Hon. Datu Kasan A. Karon Jr., Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta (Golden Achiever), Alexander John Lainez Fong, Marian Rivera, Dr. Sheilah A. Recasata, MD, Jomerle Evardone Matutino, Jeffrey Dy, Charlomagne Arceta & Senator Christopher Bong Go. NWOW International Trading Corp., JP Catering Services (Golden Awardee), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services (Golden Awardee), Intele Builders and Development Corporation, Lucky GHL Advertising (Golden Awardee), JFBV (Golden Awardee),  Matty’s Themed Events, Sapporo Products Inc, 97.9 Home Radio(Golden Awardee), Aliw Channel 23(Golden Awardee), DWIZ-AM(Golden Awardee), Lagniappe Printshop(Golden Awardee), Eyeleen Hair and Make up by: Aileen Sebua(Golden Awardee), Gown and Events Management by Touting(Golden Awardee), Media House Express(Golden Awardee), Jam Lim Enterprises(Golden Awardee), Cave Beach Resort(Golden Awardee), Alegre de Pilipinas, The Metropolista (Golden Awardee), Rise and Shine Pilipinas(Golden Awardee), Light TV(Golden Awardee), RCP Ritmo Tambore, Win Radio, Bhylinn’s Modern Fashion, Edwin Lisa Brows and Aesthetics, Venice Handicrafts Wooden Kiddie Stools and Furniture, Links Digital (Golden Awardee), Through The Glass Creatives (Golden Awardee), Densol’s Catering, Kylledmed Philippines, Joyice Philippines, DWAN 1206 AM, Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan, Genuine Diamonds PH, SCPM Trading, Kherk Roldan Whitelabel SEO Solutions, MJ-AM TRADING, Better Boneless, Finca Engineering Services, The Brewed Buddies coffee & Tea Creations, Altech Autogate Int. Philippines Inc., SMRD Credit Collection Services, Faces and Curves, G-Film Rental, Capitol Medical Center Inc, Phisavong World Travel and Tours, Viomix Philippines, Philippines Graphic & BusinessMirror.

The press conference garnered coverage from various media partners, including prominent publications and networks such as Malaya Business Insight, Business Mirror, The Metropolista, Business World, Philippines Graphic, Pilipino Mirror, Consumer Asia Magazine, The Market Monitor, Cook Magazine, Amazing Manila Journal, Hataw!, Aliw Channel 23, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Light TV, Light TV Radio, Balitang A2Z, Zoe TV, People Journal, Daily Tribune, Media House Express, Pinoy Aksyon, and Tech & Lifestyle Journal, as well as The Global Filipino Magazine. Journalists and reporters were enthusiastic about capturing every detail, ensuring that audiences stayed well-informed about the key announcements and insights shared during the event. This collaboration with such a wide range of media outlets not only expanded the reach of the messages but also highlighted the organizers’ dedication to transparency and community engagement.

The 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 celebrated this year’s commitment to excellence, dedication, and innovation, spotlighting the most inspiring and successful leaders and companies across the nation. The event left a remarkable impression and is poised for growth in upcoming editions, continuing its tradition of recognizing the country’s finest achievers.

 

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AirAsia MOVE Wins Asia’s Best Travel Booking App for Second Consecutive Year at World Travel Tech Awards 2024

AirAsia MOVE has again been recognised as Asia’s Best Travel Booking App at the World Travel Tech Awards 2024, marking its second consecutive win. This prestigious award reflects AirAsia MOVE’s ongoing commitment to delivering accessible, efficient, and user-focused travel solutions that cater to the needs of travellers across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE, received the award in Madeira, Portugal, yesterday. The World Travel Tech Awards celebrate excellence in travel technology, recognizing top-tier innovations, platforms, and companies shaping the future of the travel industry and is part of the broader World Travel Awards initiative, which highlights excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

The app has consistently set new standards in offering diverse travel options and convenient solutions, allowing users to effortlessly book flights, accommodations, airport rides, and activities.

Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE commented, “Winning this award for the second consecutive year is a testament to our commitment to supporting and promoting travel across Asean and beyond. Thank you to everyone who voted for us, and we will use this as motivation to continue enhancing our services, making travel more accessible and delightful for all travelers. I would also like to dedicate this win to our Allstars, who are the backbone of AirAsia MOVE.

Throughout 2024, we have streamlined our business direction and realigned our focus on the core product of travel. It is all about enabling travelers to have a seamless experience throughout every part of their journey. As an OTA, we are proud to offer over 700 airlines and close to a million hotels and accommodations, aside from airport rides and access to live events and activities such as concerts, sports events, and more on one single platform.”

Mike Sawicki, Director, World Travel Tech Awards, says, “Congratulations to AirAsia MOVE for winning ‘Asia’s Best Travel Booking App 2024’. This outstanding accomplishment highlights how the brand is raising the bar in travel technology. The dedication of the AirAsia MOVE team is inspiring.”

AirAsia MOVE’s commitment to excellence ensures that the app remains a trusted choice for travelers seeking simplicity, value, and reliable service. In the future, AirAsia MOVE plans to expand its capabilities and adapt to changing travel demands, bringing even more innovative offerings to users.

Stay up to date with everything from AirAsia MOVE by following @airasiamove on Instagram & TikTok for the latest updates. For a seamless and enhanced experience, download your AirAsia MOVE from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery.

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Making The Move To A 15-Minute City

To commute or not commute?

The worsening traffic congestion in Metro Manila is presenting a growing dilemma for a segment of urban workers, especially those employed in the central business districts of Makati and Bonifacio Global City.

According to recent data from the TomTom traffic index, Metro Manila had the worst traffic congestion among metro areas worldwide and the worst gridlock among major cities in Southeast Asia, beating out Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The index also revealed that a Filipino commuter spends on average 25 minutes and 30 seconds to traverse a 10-kilometer route, similar to the distance from Cubao to Makati. Commuters lost up to 117 hours per year due to congestion in 2023, equivalent to four days and 21 hours. This is 12 hours and 51 minutes more than the average time lost in 2022.

A JICA study estimated that the Philippines loses Php 3.5 billion daily due to traffic congestion in Metro Manila, or Php 1.27 trillion annually. The economic loss was so staggering that the Management Association of the Philippines warned that the city’s gridlock already merited the declaration of a state of calamity.

Mr. Jogee Arellano, CEO of MyTown, a network of 14 dorms strategically located near Taguig’s Bonifacio Global City (BGC) and the Makati Central Business District, considers this as proof of the practical economics of the live-where-you-work setup.

“The cost of commuting to work has become quite expensive. If one considers time as money, then the economic loss is not only felt in the pocket but on your well-being as well. These days, a two-hour commute during rush hour is almost normal, even for people living in nearby cities within Metro Manila. In this scenario, living near your workplace truly becomes a viable option,” Mr. Arellano says.

Everything within reach in a 15-minute city

MyTown, a part of SM’s property portfolio, is an example of the urban development concept of the 15-Minute City in practice. The idea is straightforward: Everything you need to live comfortably in a city should be reachable within 15 minutes, ideally by walking.

“All the major offices, leisure, and entertainment establishments are within reasonable distance from our dormitories. A good number of our residents are able to go to their offices or the nearby malls within 15 minutes,” Mr. Arellano says.

In a recent in-house survey conducted by MyTown on transportation and commuting arrangements among its residents, almost half of the respondents said that their preferred mode of mobility was walking. A segment either took motorcycle ride hailing apps or took public transport. Others even take more creative modes of transport, like e-scooters and bicycles.

Asked how long the typical commute to work or school took, 36 percent said that it took them 10-15 minutes to get to work or school, and 19 percent said it took them 15-20 minutes. Notably, 17 percent of respondents said that it took them less than 10 minutes to commute.

“Overall, we found that MyTown residents put into practice and appreciate the benefits of the 15-minute city lifestyle. It contributes to their productivity and well-being,” Mr. Arellano says.

 

The movement towards creating the 15-minute city complements well with SM’s push to build the “Integrated Lifestyle City,” as seen in developments like the Mall of Asia complex and SM Clark, where condominiums, office buildings, MICE facilities, and even a school (National University) are built around SM malls that function as the modern community center.

 

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Symbolic Transfer of Sual Power Station

Shareholder representatives of TeaM Energy Corporation hand over to Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) President/CEO Dennis Edward A. Dela Serna (3rd from left) and National Power Corporation (NPC) President/CEO Fernando Martin Y.  Roxas (2nd from right) symbolic replicas of the Sual Power Station (SPS) during a recent appreciation event hosted by TeaM Energy. Handing over the plant replica to Mr. Dela Serna is Izumi Kai, President/CEO, JERA Asia (2nd from left). Passing on a similar replica to Mr. Roxas is Moroo Shino, Chief Executive Officer, Marubeni Asian Power Singapore (3rd from right). Also on stage is Mitsuhiro Kojima, Officer in Charge, TeaM Energy (left), and Kazunobu Takijima, Chief Finance Officer, TeaM Energy (right). On October 25, 2024, TeaM Energy completed the turnover of the 1,200 MW SPS in Sual, Pangasinan, to the Philippine government through PSALM. The plant was built under a 25-year Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) scheme with the national government, then represented by the NPC. On the same day as TeaM Energy’s transfer of the plant to NPC and PSALM, Sual Power Inc., a subsidiary of San Miguel Global Power (SMGP) received the facility from PSALM. 

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SM and Mastercard Empower Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS) with Scholarship Grants

SM, through SM Store and SM Retail, in partnership with Mastercard, and SM Foundation have launched a new initiative to empower Filipino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Through this collaboration, ten exceptional students from the Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS) program will receive scholarship grants and access to critical digital learning tools to help them succeed in today’s tech-driven world.

Mastercard will donate P100 to SM Foundation for every eligible transaction made using a Philippine-issued Mastercard at SM Stores. The funds raised between November 15 and 17 during the promo period will go directly toward supporting the scholarships for these students, enabling them to pursue higher education and build careers in the technology sector.

In addition to financial support, the program also seeks to address the digital divide in the Philippines. Previous efforts have already equipped thousands of students with e-tablets and established digital learning hubs in public schools. In 2023 alone, nearly 10,000 students benefited from these resources, gaining access to modern technology that enhances their educational experience.

According to a 2020 Department of Education survey, only 64% of Filipino students had access to smartphones, and just 55% had access to laptops—critical tools for participating in digital learning.

 

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Jordan Brand Welcomes Class of 2028 to Wings Scholars Program Philippines

Three more high school students have joined the global community of Jordan Wings scholars who will achieve their dreams of excelling in life by pursuing quality higher education.

The Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Program, the global community impact initiative dedicated to providing educational opportunities to underprivileged youth, welcomed three outstanding youths from Davao City, Batangas province and Los Baños, Laguna who will receive four-year scholarships that will allow them to pursue the course of their choice at Ateneo de Manila University

Maica Garcia from Ateneo de Davao University High School, Sofia Pequieras from Fame Academy of Science and Technology in Cuenca, Batangas, and Dan Cabangunay from the University of the Philippines Rural High School in Los Baños, Laguna, will enjoy full scholarships at the Ateneo and also benefit from mentorship programs. Jordan Brand Wings works with more than 30 partners globally to unlock access to education and mentorship for disadvantaged youth.

Kiefer Ravena, the first Filipino athlete to join the Jordan brand, welcomed the newest Wings scholars to the Jordan Wings family. “I know the gift of education is one of the best things we can have because it can bring us closer to our dreams. Jordan aims to connect that gap for you to get closer to your dreams and motivate the next generation of game-changers,” Kiefer said.

The Wings Scholars program is inspired by Michael Jordan’s legacy and commitment to education and imparts his guiding principle of perseverance against all odds in pursuit of a goal—on and off the court.

Jordan Brand’s long-term commitment to the Philippines has continued to make a lasting impact in this country with a deep love for basketball. The program first took root in 2022, when the first Jordan Wings scholars were announced to the world. The Philippines became the first country in Southeast Asia to join the global Wings initiative after North America, China, and France. It continues to inspire youth around the world to achieve greatness on their own terms.

“Wings will always strive to empower youth and let them discover their own greatness. It’s education that opens doors and unlocks that greatness. The brand is all about creating a level playing field that promotes diversity, inclusion, and equality. We believe the ball should bounce the same for everyone,” says Jino L. Ferrer, Country Marketing Manager, Nike Philippines.

In partnership with children’s rights organization, Bahay Tuluyan, the scholars will also be provided with personalized coaching, career guidance and mentorship throughout their four-year tenure at the university.

Maica Angela Garcia will pursue an AB degree in Diplomacy and Internal Relations at Ateneo, while Sofia Theresa Pequieras and Dan Anthony Cabangunay will both take up Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics – Master in Data Science.

Many of the 3rd batch of Jordan Brand Wings scholars are first-generation college students in their families, a testament to the program’s dedication to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for underprivileged youth.

“The Batch of 2028 will continue to pursue the spirit of excellence inspired by the Jordan Wings Scholarship Program and like the scholars who came before them, they will pay it forward to the community – a value that accurately reflects the Jordan Brand’s mission and purpose,” added Ferrer.

Meet the Wings Scholars from the Philippines, Class of 2028

Hailing from Davao City in Mindanao and the Southern Tagalog region, three scholars were chosen this year to be part of the Jordan Wings Scholars Program. They will pursue careers in international diplomacy and applied mathematics that will let them serve communities and larger society in the future.

Maica Angela Garcia grew up on Ateneo values, having spent all of her schooling life at the Ateneo de Davao, just like everyone in her family. A junior national swimmer, she has competed in the Palarong Pambansa (national games) and placed 5th nationwide in her event, even if she had to step back from the sport for a while for health reasons. Mai strongly believes that “failure does not define you, how you rise from it does”. She looks forward to what lies ahead – both in the pool and in the classroom, confident that she will overcome whatever comes her way.” Pursuing an AB in Diplomacy at the Ateneo, she has her sights set on becoming a lawyer, with politics and public service as part of her envisioned future, and a corporate life not far behind.

Sofia Theresa Pequieras has had a challenging childhood and teenhood in her native Cuenca, Batangas, having to help her mother take on all the responsibilities for her three children. She and her siblings experienced a difficult life as her mother tried to pay off unpaid loans her father had made. She and her siblings helped tend their little food stall, working well into the night so they could make ends meet. But despite the hardships, Sofia –a science high school student – excelled in school, filled her resume with leadership achievements, positions held, championships won, and graduated as valedictorian. Her dream is to become a data scientist in an F1 team, which is why she is pursuing a Data Science course at the Ateneo. “Reading helps me learn life lessons, researching soothes my innate curiosity about the world and watching F1 calms by physics-saturated mind, while playing tennis hones my skill in the sport,” she says. Ten years from now she sees herself outside of the country being a data scientist in an F1 team.

Dan Anthony Cabangunay’s family faced their most difficult challenge during the pandemic when he was still in high school. “What made it harder for me was my lack of means to help my parents aside from continuing to do my best in studying.” He applied for different assistance opportunities that came along while also minimizing his expenses. The high school salutatorian from the University of the Philippines Rural High School in Los Baños likes to tutor and teach, do research, undertake project management, and excel in languages and communication. “When I share knowledge, I feel I get to master the subject better.” He volunteers in organizations to teach students like himself—his way of giving back. He has technical skills—good enough to make him choose to major in Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics—Master in Data Science at the Ateneo.  Ten years from now he sees himself “establishing stability for my family (and guiding) my two siblings on their career paths. He sees himself as a teacher and also has a part in alleviating widespread malnutrition. There is also the possibility of law school or a doctorate degree. My plan is to continue giving back to others through teaching, volunteering, and donating once I have established myself further.”. His three best traits are “being optimistic, striving for continuous growth, and gratitude,” he said.