Author: Thoney Pascual

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AirAsia MOVE Encourages Travelers to Book Flights ahead for the Holidays in view of Lower Fuel Surcharge Cost in July

Amid the recent announcement of the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) about lower fuel surcharges in July, AirAsia MOVE advises travelers to plan their Christmas holidays and upcoming vacations during this time.

AirAsia MOVE, a one-stop-shop travel booking app, says the fuel reduction is a timely opportunity for vacationers to enjoy significant savings, especially for those traveling in groups or those who are planning multiple trips.

From level 6, CAB is lowering the fuel surcharge to level 5. This means that the fuel surcharge cost will go down by up to 800 pesos for international flights.

For domestic travel, the fuel surcharge will go down to PHP542 on level 5 from PHP665 on level 6.

This reduction, effective from July 1 to 31, 2024, provides a timely opportunity for holiday travelers to take advantage of lower fares for peak seasons, as it applies to AirAsia and all other flights from 700 airlines on the AirAsia MOVE app.

Weng Rivera, AirAsia MOVE Philippines Head of Travel, said: “We are thrilled with the government’s decision to lower fuel surcharges as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to provide affordable travel options for everyone. We encourage everyone to book early and take advantage of the reduced costs, so they can use their savings from this on other travel expenses or however they wish to use it.”

To make flight purchases even more affordable, AirAsia MOVE is offering discounts on top of the already low fares for all airlines available on the app.

Apart from flight discounts, AirAsia MOVE is also offering exciting discounts on hotel bookings.

Travel Hack from AirAsia MOVE

For travelers looking for affordable getaways on top of low fares and discounts, AirAsia MOVE recommends booking domestic flights for September to October travels, as these are non-peak seasons for air travel, so flights are cheaper compared to other months. Although not necessarily cheap, the ideal time to travel in Asian countries is during the latter half of the “Ber-months,” as the weather is usually more favorable during this time.

AirAsia MOVE says booking early is the best way to score cheap flight deals, as prices tend to go up as it close in to the actual travel dates. Booking early also provides ample time to plan other aspects of the trip, such as accommodations, transportation, and activities.

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2GO Opens Hubs Expanding Forwarding Operations in Mindanao

2GO continues its expansion in Mindanao by recently launching its shipside services in General Santos City and Davao, marking the sixth and seventh ports to offer this service after Manila, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, and Zamboanga.

2GO, the country’s largest end-to-end logistics, transportation, and distribution solutions provider, strengthens its presence in Southern Mindanao. Seizing the economic growth opportunities in Davao and General Santos, 2GO opens its logistic hubs in these cities’ major ports to support businesses and communities.

The shipside service optimizes the efficiency of the Container Load (LCL) or shared cargo service, providing shippers with shortened lead times and the flexibility to accommodate last-minute cargoes, with acceptance of up to 18 hours before vessel departure. This service is an ideal solution for urgent shipments, particularly for transporting vegetables, fruits, and other fresh produce.

“We are excited to expand our shipside services to Davao and General Santos, enhancing our capability to support the local economy and meet the needs of our customers,” said Faye Alonzo, 2GO Forwarding Business Unit Head. “These new hubs will enable MSMEs in Davao, GenSan, and neighboring municipalities to ship their products widely, ensuring that fresh produce and other time-sensitive goods reach their destinations swiftly and efficiently.”

The LCL service offers significant advantages for inter-regional shipments, allowing businesses to ship smaller quantities without the need to fill an entire container. This not only reduces costs but also improves inventory management and supply chain efficiency, making it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and businesses with diverse shipping needs.

2GO’s extensive shipping routes from Manila to Davao, General Santos City, and Iloilo facilitate both travel and shipment, creating a reliable and efficient logistics network. These routes are particularly advantageous for businesses in Mindanao, providing them with consistent and cost-effective access to major markets, thus supporting their growth and expansion.

The launch events in Davao and General Santos were attended by Faye Alonzo and Sea Operations Head Elizier Santiago. The events were also graced by representatives from the Philippine Ports Authority of Davao and General Santos, GlobalPort Terminals, Inc., South Cotabato Integrated Port Services, Inc. (SCIPSI), PHILEXPORT Region 12, various fruit and vegetable traders and shippers, Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII), and partner agents.

The event showcased a trial shipment of 65 crates of tomatoes from Davao bound for Iloilo, demonstrating the efficiency and reliability of 2GO’s new shipside service.

For more information about 2GO LCL services, please visit www.2go.com.ph.

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Education: A Path Away from Difficulty

Fritz Mendez, an SM Foundation alumnus, has an opportunity to pursue his dream of attending college and launching a prosperous career through the scholarship program.

Since 1993, the SM Foundation, SM’s social good arm, has given college scholarships to deserving students from underprivileged communities. This demonstrates how education and perseverance may lead to a life free of poverty.

Education, according to SM founder Henry Sy, is the greatest weapon against poverty. A college education, in his view, is one of the most powerful tools for social change, and the ripple effect it has on a graduate’s ability to improve not only his own life but also that of his loved ones, his employer, and the world at large.

The scholarship program has helped more than 4,200 students so far this year, and it is also assisting in the fight against the generational transmission of poverty through its emphasis on youth education, the construction of schools, and the provision of classrooms around the country.

Fritz Mendez finds this path to be far from simple. Because he was a member of a defenseless group, staying alive was his top priority.

Tragically, the war in Lebanon cut short his mother’s career as a domestic worker. He felt that getting out of poverty was an unachievable dream due to these and other family problems, so he stopped going to school.

Due to the widespread poverty in our neighborhood, it is almost anticipated that you do not have a bachelor’s degree or higher. A college degree was always a goal of his, but he wished to prove to his loved ones and neighbors that it was possible. The SM Scholarship has granted me my prayer: the chance to realize this ambition. After mustering up all my bravery, I applied, and the SM Foundation granted me a chance.

Realizing the hitherto unimaginable goal

Fritz, a graduate of the SM Scholarship Program, now has the opportunity to mentor the next crop of scholarship recipients.

Fritz began college at the tender age of nineteen, but he wasted no time gaining knowledge and making the most of his opportunities despite being older than his classmates.

He overcame adversity by actively participating in church activities and the scholarship program, both of which provided him with a supportive atmosphere. Through his involvement in numerous extracurricular activities at church and school, he developed his leadership abilities, his extroverted personality, and his love for writing and performing.

Important for Fritz’s well-being and performance in college and beyond, he honed practical skills such as time management and budgeting. He gained self-assurance and new perspectives as a result of these events.

My newfound confidence is all because to the scholarship. My sense of duty, discipline, and respect for the worth of work and money were all honed by the simple act of contemplating my own existence. This development was most pronounced when I was a summer intern with the SM Scholarship and learned how to manage my money wisely. I managed to take care of our household expenses and put up enough money for my stipend next semester.

 

Indulging in my passion

A person’s family is everything to them. Fritz promotes the idea of spreading social good among his coworkers at work.

His one and only job after graduating from Accounting Technology in 2014 was with BDO Unibank.

Now a senior teller and the BDO Employees Association’s Regional Director for the Visayas area, he has risen the corporate ladder. He encourages his coworkers, leads well, and suggests creative welfare measures for his colleagues, all while handling important accounts in his area.

One thing I’ve learned from the SM Group is the importance of family. They taught me the value of family through their unwavering support and encouragement while I was an SM scholar. He was able to learn and show how to care for his family while working at BDO Unibank.

Thanks to his mother, who believed in his ability to provide a better life for his family, Fritz is now able to provide them a good home and meet their basic necessities.

Beyond this, as a high school student who could have accepted his destiny, the SM Scholarship offered me hope. Not only did the SM Scholarship allow me to become the sole graduate in my fractured family, but it also gave me the chance to dream of a better, more hopeful future. It showed that there is hope for students like me who are looking to start over and create our own opportunities.

 

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EO-Executive Optical Welcomes its Newest Endorsers — Donny and Anthony Pangilinan

A father-son tandem is on a mission to start their year with better vision and to influence people about the importance of investing in high-quality eyewear and eye care services

For Father’s Day, EO-Executive Optical has unveiled actor Donny and motivational speaker Anthony Pangilinan as their new brand ambassadors.
A lot of people want to work with Donny and Anthony because of their fame via advertising, TV shows, and social media. They exude an infectiously upbeat vibe thanks to their captivating personalities and outstanding storytelling skills. As a result, their charismatic and approachable personalities influence the entertainment industry.

EO-Executive Optical thinks the father-and-son team will be great ambassadors for the brand since they embody the principles and family values that the company stands for. By working together in such a natural and engaging way, they boost EO-Executive Optical’s reputation and encourage people to value family and be themselves.

 

 

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The Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2024: A Night of Unparalleled Business Brilliance!

The most talked-about event in business is returning on September 8, 2024, and it’s going to be much bigger than before! The esteemed Hexagon Events Place in Quezon City will host the 2024 Philippine Finest Business Awards Outstanding Achievers, a production of La Visual Corporation and SIRBISU Channel.

The awards event this year is shaping up to be the most memorable celebration of innovation, success, and greatness in the Philippine industry yet. From long-standing giants in their areas to up-and-coming luminaries, we will be recognizing the exceptional individuals who have made a lasting impression.

The following media outlets have graciously agreed to help us showcase the winners’ outstanding accomplishments: Malaya Business Insight, Business Mirror, Business World, Pilipino Mirror, The Market Monitor, Light TV, Light Radio, Balitang A2Z, Zoe TV, Media House Express, The Metropolista, Hataw Tabloid, Consumer Asia Magazine, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Aliw Channel 23, Cook Magazine, Pinoy OFW, Daily Tribune, and Amazing Manila Journal.

Honoring CEOs, entrepreneurs, public servants, artists, and celebrities who have made remarkable contributions to their industries, the Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2024 honor exceptional individuals. Bhinky Reyes was named this year’s Trusted and Excellent Female Entrepreneur, among other honors. Golden Achiever Salvacion Paparon was named the year’s Most Outstanding Business Leader. The year’s Outstanding Performing Artist is Lae Manego, also known as Golden Achiever. The Outstanding Female Veteran Radio Host, played by Annabelle Surara, a Golden Achiever. Award for Outstanding Male News Anchor of Mata ng Agila goes to Wej Cudiamat. The position of Trusted Accountant in the Philippines held by Shirley B. Belangel, CPA, MBA (Golden Achiever). The year’s Outstanding Radio Host award went to Dennis Antennor Jr., a Golden Achiever. As the Most Inspiring Female Recording Artist, Carmela Betonio has been honored. Exuding Confidence as a Reliable FM Radio Personality (Achiever, Golden). Winner of the Golden Achiever Award for Best Philippine Event Director goes to Miller Daniolco. Nominated by Jamin Lim for Best Event Photographer. This is Bhinky Reyes, the Reliable and Outstanding Female Entrepreneur. Exconde Bon Jheo is the Best Filipino Photographer. The year’s Most Trusted CEO honor goes to Janice Delima. The Incredible Presiding Judge of the Philippines, Judge Tarcelo Sabarre Jr., a Golden Achiever. Jeffrey Dy has been recognized as an exceptional achiever in the fields of the performing arts and the beauty industry. Boobay crowned the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Comedian. Nominated for Best Female Dance Performance was Julie Anne San Jose. The Best Male Dance Performer went to Rayver Cruz. Rita Daniella triumphed as the most exceptional female dancer. Mr. Anthony Rosaldo for Best Male Dancer. Ruru Madrid has been named the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Actor. To Bianca Umali, the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Actress. Miguel Tanfelix as the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Actor. Presented by Barbie Forteza, the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Actress. This is Ken Chan, the Superb Entrepreneur and Actor. The Philippines’ Most Potential Love Couple: Ashley Sarmiento and Marco Masa. No. 1 Philippine Love Team: Allen Ansay and Sofia Pablo. Nominee for Outstanding Radyo Agila Host/Reporter: Earlo Bringas…. Dr. Elva Evasco-Auza, the Philippines’ Most Respected Medical Professional. Topping the list of promising male artists is Dylan Menor. Ranked highest among male hosts and anchors was Audrey Gorriceta. Award for Best Mommy Vlogger, Influencer, and Radio DJ Went to DJ Mama Colleen. Papa Marky is the top Filipino FM radio DJ. In the Philippines, DJ Kuya Machete was named the top male win radio DJ. Sarah Luningning Medina has been recognized as the Philippines’ Most Outstanding Business Owner. An exceptional Filipino musical group, the Flippers (3rd Gen). The usec. When it comes to Philippine teleradio talk shows, Robert Rivera is the man to watch. Ennisa E. Nerlisa Franciso Rivera as the Outstanding Filipina Teleradio Talk Show Host. Introducing George Sison-Tagle: the Philippines’ Most Impressive Singer! and Merjohn Lagaya as the Philippines’ Most Impressive Musician.

Recognized as leaders in their domains, the verified recipients hail from a variety of corporate sectors. These include The Voice Academy of the Philippines Inc., The Hexagon Events Place (Golden Awardee), 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), 97.9 Home Radio(Golden Awardee), Aliw Channel 23(Golden Awardee), DWIZ-AM(Golden Awardee), Wella Rose Garden, Myeongdong Corner, 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), Studio45k(Golden Awardee), Jam Lim Enterprises, Cave Beach Resort(Golden Awardee), Alegre de Pilipinas, The Metropolista, Rise and Shine Pilipinas(Golden Awardee) & Light TV ( Iconiec Skin Essentials Corporation, Sparkle GMA Artist, TAGM Marketing Solution Inc., Win Radio, RTU Himig Rizalia (Golden Awardee), and JL Photoworks.

Sponsors for this year’s event include Intele Builders and Development Corporation, Lucky GHL Advertising, Salvacion Paparon (Golden Achiever), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services (Golden Awardee), and JFBV. Golden Award Recipient JP Catering Services and Bhinky Reyes served as Minor Sponsors. Additional major sponsors include the Voice Academy of the Philippines and the Hexagon Events Place, which was honored with a golden award. Your unwavering support in honoring corporate greatness is much appreciated.

We will keep you posted when additional information about the event’s special guests and highlights becomes available. It’s time to honor the top performers in Philippine industry, celebrate their achievements, and spark new ideas!

Experience the pinnacle of excellence at the 2024 Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers — don’t miss it!

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Top Payment Provider Signs Accord With Various Partners, Vows To Push Progress In The Payment Services Sector Through Collaboration And Innovation

PAYMENT Innovation, Inc., also known as PayCools, recently signed an agreement with several stakeholders, including government regulatory agencies, state-owned financial institutions, and industry leaders, highlighting the critical role that innovation and collaboration play in driving progress in the payment services sector.

 

PayCools, which operates in major Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines and provides top-notch finance, payment, and business solutions, has entered into a collaborative partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), Bureau of the Treasury (BTr), including industry stalwarts JNT and Allbank, to help streamline government regulatory processes and make it easier to put up

“Our relationship with the SEC and Landbank is critical to PayCools’ purpose. We intend to collaborate closely with these institutions to improve regulatory processes, increase access to financial services, and encourage digital innovation. This includes looking into ways to support initiatives that promote financial literacy and inclusion among Filipino entrepreneurs, ultimately creating a more conducive environment for business growth and economic development,” PayCools Global CEO Eamon Dan stated during the agreement’s signing ceremony.

He stated that, while PayCools’ goal to expand across the ASEAN region may provide hurdles due to legislative differences, Dan hopes to see them as chances to engage for greater innovation and collaboration. “Our plan includes collaborating closely with local regulatory organizations and financial institutions, such as the SEC and Landbank in the Philippines, to effectively negotiate these differences while developing a strong cross-border settlement payment network system. Our goal is to ease cross-border transactions and contribute to regional economic development through collaborations and digital payment expertise.

 

Dan underlined that its relationship with JNT has played an important role in changing cash management for couriers. “By integrating our payment systems, JNT has dramatically reduced the volume of cash transactions handled by its couriers, resulting in increased operational efficiency and safety precautions. This collaboration not only matches with our aim of moving toward a cashless society, but it also highlights the concrete impact of innovative payment solutions on logistics and delivery operations,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dan noted that the use of QRPh technology is a huge step forward in transaction interfaces since it provides seamless, convenient, and secure payment experiences for both consumers and business owners. “Through our collaboration with Allbank, we are committed to promoting the adoption of QRPH technology, which simplifies payment processes and reduces transaction costs,” Dan stated.

This technology, he noted, not only improves convenience but also complies with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) requirements for interoperable payment systems, ensuring increased accessibility and interoperability across several platforms.

Dan also emphasized its commitment to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Philippines, which account for the vast majority of the country’s economy. He explained that their effort, “Swifood,” a digital software application aimed at empowering SMEs who cannot afford to set up their own IT team, provides a user-friendly platform for establishing online shops and even doing cost-effective social media marketing.

“Swifood helps SMEs develop an online presence quickly and efficiently by providing access to simple tools and services. Furthermore, our continued efforts to improve accessibility and usability ensure that Swifood remains available to a diverse spectrum of entrepreneurs, democratizing access to digital commerce opportunities,” Dan stated.

SEC Chairman Emilio Benito Aquino, LBP President Lynette Ortiz, BTr Deputy Treasurer Eduard Anthony Mario III, JNT CEO Dean Lei, and Allbank CEO Jesus Vicente Garcia all signed the agreement at the SEC headquarters in Makati City.