We live in the data age where life is painted by information. Our society is powered and inspired by data sets that propel economies, explore possibilities, and change lives. And all of this happens both onscreen and off-screen. Data is king, and it brings new and contemporary delights and advancements with it. The most significant of its gifts is helping bridge the knowledge of ages ago to enrich our modern lives. Literally painting life-powered by data with the brushstrokes of masters past.
Art by the numbers
The Wisdom of Da Vinci: An Immersive AI Experience is one such gift brought to life by information. The immersive art experience merges the power of data processing and the masterworks of Leonardo Da Vinci and other iconic artists into an audio-visual display.
The result is an enthralling and singular experience, where the attendees become canvasses themselves as they step into the projections of data-painted art. The exhibit can be visited at One Bonifacio High Street until October.
This convergence of hard data and art is what drew the attention of EastWest Ageas. The exhibit’s imagery was sourced from paintings, books, traditional CSV files, and even statistics to create art that evokes the deepest of emotions and imaginations.
A business of the heart and data
“We decided to sponsor this exhibition because our business is about data and emotions,” shares Sjoerd Smeets, President and CEO of EastWest Ageas. The business of ensuring the people’s future and assets has a bedrock built on data and information. This makes sure that all the decisions regarding the customers are founded on facts and rational thinking.
“But in the end, we are here to serve our customers at difficult moments,” Sjoerd says. “Our business has a clear purpose: protect families during their most vulnerable moments and bring them comfort and security.” And this requires emotional intelligence, a feat that no data set can muster.
EastWest Ageas believes that it is the union of the human capacity to empathize and the clear-sightedness of data that can elevate the industry to the next level of service.
When people are accepted, they become empowered and feel appreciated and recognized.
In celebration of the International Day of Sign Language, SM Cares of the SM Group continues its mission to provide inclusive spaces as a mall for all through its yearly sensitivity training for its frontline employees. The training equips them with skills to better serve customers with different needs or persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Engr. Bien Mateo, Senior Vice President for Mall Operations and Program Director of SM Cares Disability Affairs noted the company’s dedication to creating positive impacts within its communities.
“Genuine inclusion starts with us,” he said. “One of the integral steps in line with this effort is by conducting sensitivity training for our employees.”
A PWD-friendly mall for all
Apart from SM Supermalls’ facilities, SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s shopping malls promote inclusive spaces through features such as ramps, handlebars in comfort rooms, and Braille-labeled elevator buttons. The efforts to promote inclusivity within the malls also rely on equipping its workers with the knowledge and best practices for assisting PWDs.
Jay Jess Aquino, a security personnel in SM Mall of Asia for 15 years shared how helpful the annual sensitivity training is in learning how to respectfully assist customers who have different needs.
With daily interactions from different PWD communities, he shared how a simple act of acknowledging guests on the autism spectrum or persons with Down syndrome every time they playfully salute them goes a long way.
SM Mall of Asia (MOA) security personnel Jay Jess Aquino and Rebecca Flores pose with their sensitivity training manuals on how to care for patrons with different needs.
“Pagpasok po nila sa mall, sumalaudo po sila sa amin mga guards, he said. “Natutuwa rin po kami kasi kahit sa simpleng pag-acknowledge po namin, eh napapangiti na po namin sila.”
(They salute us guards as they enter the mall. We are also pleased because even with simple acknowledgement, we can make them smile.)
As SM front liners, they must be quick to recognize guests with mobility issues to provide alternative solutions such as wheelchairs and even drive them via golf karts when available. The mall’s administration office is also open to serve as a safe and quiet space for guests who may be sensitive to several sensory inputs.
His colleague and fellow security staff Rebecca Flores in Mall of Asia expressed how the sensitivity training has made her more confident to assist patrons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) over her nine-year experience in SM.
She emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication and building rapport with customers on the spectrum before they enter. This approach helps dismiss any notion that security guards are intimidating.
“Opo. Sa entrance pa lang talaga hina-hi (saying hi/hello) na namin sila,” Ms Flores said. “Nagrerespond sila. Bumati ka sa kanila para di sila matakot sa guard. Para kahit mawala sila, di sila matatakot lumapit sa guard. Kasi maalala nila ay ito yung bumati sa akin.”
(We see to it that we give them a lively greeting as they enter the mall because they remember you. Even in the unfortunate event of being lost in the mall, they won’t hesitate to approach you to find their way since they will recall the friendly face who said hi to them.)
Ms. Flores even recalled to her initial experience when a child on the autism spectrum playfully kicked her. She remembered how shocked she was during the exchange. And although the child’s parent immediately explained the situation, Ms. Flores recalled in jest how the child tried to get her again on the way out.
“Di ako nagalit. Mas nagpasalamat ako sa training kasi may kaalaman kami,” she said.
(I didn’t get mad. I’m thankful because the training imparted learnings on this.)
SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls and a division of SM Foundation, Inc. ensures a barrier-free and disability-inclusive environment for PWDs in all of its malls nationwide.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) celebrated its 30th founding anniversary on Tuesday, September 19 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasasy City, Philippines.
The occasion marked three decades of peacebuilding, peacekeeping, and peacemaking for the agency.
Presidential Peace Adviser Sec. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr. led the celebration and awarding ceremony, together with OPAPRU officials and personnel.
“Over the past three decades, the agency has led the government’s efforts to bring harmony, mutual understanding, and solidarity among Filipinos. It has navigated the turbulent waters of conflict and division, working tirelessly with peace stakeholders to bridge gaps and heal wounds amidst socio-political, religious and cultural differences,” Galvez said in his message to the employees,” Galvez said in his keynote address.
“To our OPAPRU Service and Loyalty awardees, I have only one request, and that is, to keep the fire in your bellies burning as brightly as ever. You have become an integral member of our organization because you have chosen to champion the cause of peace, reconciliation and unity. It is truly an honor and a pleasure to be working with all of you,” he added.
Presidential Assistant Arnulfo R. Pajarillo of the agency’s Office for Finance and Administrative Services, Plans and Programs also lauded OPAPRU staff, saying, “In our organization, loyalty and hard work never go unnoticed. And today, we proudly shine the spotlight on 37 dedicated employees — 15 loyalty awardees and 22 service awardees.”
“It is not only these awardees we are recognizing on this occasion, but all of you who are present here at the PICC and those joining us from the field,” Pajarillo added. “Being at the forefront of building a culture of peace, mutual understanding and solidarity in the country, you have not only effectively carried out your crucial mandate; you have gone over and beyond what is expected of you.”
Peace milestones
With Galvez at the helm of the OPAPRU, it helped reunite the Misuari and Sema groups of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) after decades of separation, which is considered a landmark development under the Bangsamoro peace process.
The agency also played a key role in establishing an inclusive Bangsamoro Transition Authority. Together with its peace partners, it also assisted in the rebuilding of Marawi and implemented social healing interventions for the victims of the siege.
Currently, the OPAPRU is implementing the political and normalization tracks of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which is a testament to the strong partnership between the national government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Under the Normalization Program, around 65% of the 40,000 MILF combatants have already been decommissioned.
The agency is also implementing Transformation Programs for the MNLF, RPMP-RPA-ABB-TPG also known as KAPATIRAN, the CBA-CPLA and former rebels.
The dividends of peace are now being felt nationwide, as communities situated in once conflict-affected and conflict-vulnerable communities are becoming show windows of peace and development.
During the opening of the National Peace Consciousness Month this September, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared the province of Palawan as insurgency free.
Historic peace agreements
Over the past three decades, OPAPRU has led the government’s efforts in forging landmark peace agreements with revolutionary organizations in the country.
These include the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the CAB signed between the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The agency also played a crucial role in the passage and ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), which gave birth to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
It is also leading the implementation of the 1986 SIPAT Agreement with the Cordillera Bodong Administration/Cordillera People’s Liberation Army.
Empowering communities
The agency continues to roll out projects under its PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) Program which aims, among others, to improve the access of residents to much-needed socio-economic interventions, and empower communities and strengthen their capacities to address issues of conflict and peace.
The PAMANA Program has completed a total of 21,914 projects which cover agricultural productivity support, agri-fishery, capacity building, natural resource management, community infrastructure, electrification, water system, flood control, and health centers.
The program, which is anchored on conflict-sensitive and peacebuilding (CSPP) approaches, has 2,585 ongoing projects nationwide.
With all of these peace gains, the OPAPRU has been instrumental in pushing forward the Philippine peace process over the past 30 years.
Today, OPAPRU’s 600-strong peace workers throughout the country stand as solid proof of the national government’s commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace across the country.
SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, together with SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is gearing up to gather the biggest haul of trash and marine debris at this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day on September 16, 2023, at SM By the BAY and at multiple SM Malls across the country.
SM’s expanded participation – 15 SM malls in 12 locations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao – will enable more volunteers and employees to join the cleanup drive to help safeguard the marine environment and its resources in the communities it serves.
SM Prime calls on communities to sign up and join clean-up drives with designated SM malls.
Since 2015, SM has been committed to supporting International Coastal Cleanup Day every September and mounting several cleanup drives throughout the year. The recent cleanup last June to celebrate World Environment Day and World Oceans Day generated 29,272 kilograms of trash across 5 SM malls nationwide. In addition, SM By the BAY, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Offices regularly conduct cleanup drives twice a month at the
Over 11,000 volunteers are expected to gather at SM malls in support of International Coastal Clean Up Day.
The coastal cleanup drive is one of the many projects mounted by SM Cares and leading real estate developer, SM Prime Holdings Inc., to support the marine environment and ocean conservation efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).
To know more about SM’s International Coastal Cleanup Day activities, follow the SM Cares Official Facebook page. Volunteers may participate in designated clean-up sites through the following malls and sign up via:
Metro Manila – SM by the BAY
Tuguegarao – SM City Tuguegarao, together with SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown
Bataan – SM City Bataan
Olongapo – SM City Olongapo Central, together with SM City Olongapo Downtown
Sorsogon – SM City Sorsogon
Legazpi – SM City Legazpi
Daet – SM City Daet
Puerto Princesa – SM City Puerto Princesa
Capiz – SM City Roxas
Cebu – SM Seaside City Cebu, together with SM City Cebu
Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers 2023. Honoring Exceptional Individuals, Companies, and Achievements.
Last September 8, 2023 at The Hexagon Events Place in Quezon City the stage was set for an extraordinary celebration of excellence as the prestigious “Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers 2023” gear up to recognize and honor exceptional individuals, companies, and achievements that have made a significant impact on the business landscape. Organized by La Visual Corporation and SIRBISU Channel, the “Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers 2023” is a testament to the pursuit of excellence, innovation, and dedication to outstanding business practices. The awards ceremony aims to honor businesses and individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to consumer welfare, product quality, and outstanding customer service. With categories ranging from “Business Excellence” to “Outstanding Individual Achievements,” the event seeks to highlight and applaud a diverse array of accomplishments across various industries.
“We are thrilled to bring together exceptional individuals, companies, and achievers under one roof to celebrate their remarkable contributions to the business world,” at La Visual Corporation. “This event is not just about awards; it’s a platform to inspire others to strive for excellence and foster a stronger business community.”
91.5 Win Radio Manila received the Most Empowered FM Radio Station Award, Thoney S. Pascual Advertising Account Manager with Nirro De Leon Marcelo Chairman, Awards Committee
The “Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achievers 2023” gave an evening filled with excitement, inspiration, and the celebration of exceptional success stories.
La Visual Corporation is a prominent name in event management, known for its expertise in organizing exceptional events that celebrate excellence, innovation, and success. Furthermore, SIRBISU Channel is a trusted media company dedicated to providing quality content that informs, educates, and entertains its viewers.
At a time when burgers seem to be getting bigger and bigger, here’s a burger brand that proves that size doesn’t always matter. Meet BatBurgs —the cutest burgers in town!
The burger joint started as a food truck way back in 2015 when Bateng Arde, BatBurgs’ Owner and Founder thought of creating a fun, little burger concept—mini burgers. BatBurgs are offered at around 2 – 2.5 inches.
“We thought of serving these mini burgers in a box to keep everything easy to grab and eat, and share within family and friends,” said Bateng.
Bateng Arde, Owner & Founder of BatBurgs
With just a capital of Php 2000, Bateng reopened BatBurgs as a food delivery service to earn a living during the pandemic. It instantly became a huge hit in the community of Dasmariñas and because of this they were able to open their first shop.
“People are amused and surprised with our cute burgers. Immediately, it may seem lacking in size, but our burgers are big in flavor and serving. Our customers always say that every bite is a delightful surprise.” said Sarah Salido, BatBurgs’ Managing Partner.
Bateng Arde – Owner, Sarah Salido -Managing Partner of BatBurgs
Their best seller is Party Box with 12 pcs of mini burgers with assorted flavors: Classic TLC, Cheese, Barbecue and Garlic.
“Our burgers are definitely unique not just in size but also because of how they are made with our fully customized homemade brioche buns and beef burger patties,” she added.
BatBurgs Party Box
Aside from serving mini burgers, BatBurgs has expanded its menu to snack boxes, mini sausage, takodogs, fries and soda pop drinks.
BatBurgs Party Dogs
In 2021, the team organized a Community Pantry for 1000 kids and families in Brgy. Bukal, Cavinti, Laguna. They also participated in Feed It Forward PH’s Father’s Day “Community Patty”. As people lined up, they were given BatBurgs burgers for breakfast.
BatBurgs also accepts bulk orders and burgers set up for events.
You can order via their Facebook or Instagram and it will be delivered right at your doorstep. For dine in, and take-outs, visit their branches:
Las Piñas
81 Apollo IV, Moonwalk Village, Talon Singko, Las Piñas City
General Trias
B26 L16 Trieste St. Cluster 4 Bella Vista Subdivision, General Trias Cavite
Dasmariñas (for pre-order)
B8 L49 Paris St. Phase 1 San Marino City Subdivision, Dasmariñas Cavite
