Collaborating for good: SMAC and Globe executives, as well as the campaign’s beneficiaries, attended the turnover ceremony. From left to right: David Y. Jo, Head of Partnerships, Communications, and Reports, UN World Food Programme; Eduardo C. Jimenez, Vice Chairperson, World Vision; Jun N. Godornes, Director for Resource Development, World Vision; Celerina R. Amores, Senior Director for Corporate Communications, Ayala Foundation; Yoly C. Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, Globe; Kevin Y. Hartigan-Go, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC; and Yaracel S. Macalindong, VP for Sales and Marketing of SMAC.
SMAC, SM’s loyalty program, raised over PHP30 million between December 2023 and January 2024 to assist in solving involuntary hunger and a lack of access to excellent education across the country, in conjunction with Globe’s Hapag Movement and the SM Foundation.
This is SMAC’s second year working with the Hapag Movement, which aims to provide supplemental meals and sustainable livelihood training to 100,000 Filipino families. Last year’s campaign raised PHP5.5 million, benefiting 10,000 people.
SMAC sponsored the campaign by donating P50 for every SMAC kit sold. Bonus points were also donated to the campaign for every eligible purchase made at participating SM Retail affiliates, which included SM Store, SM Fashion, SM Beauty, SM Appliance Centre, Kultura, Our Home, Surplus, Sport Central, Silk Issues, Levi’s, Forever 21, The Body Shop, Echo, and Crate and Barrel.
“We credit our success to the support of our devoted SMAC members. Every purchase they make, every point they donate, helps needy families. “Together, we can create a future in which no one goes hungry,” said Kevin Hartigan-Go, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC.
This year, SMAC and Globe’s collaboration generated approximately 30 million points, which will be donated to the Hapag Movement and the SM Foundation. Hartigan-Go emphasized that “these will be put into programs that will directly impact the lives of many Filipinos.”
Unite to make a difference.
According to the most recent June 2024 Social Weather Station (SWS) poll, the country’s hunger rate has risen to 17.6% from 14.2% in March.
Hartigan-Go shared that “Hapag’s vision of fighting involuntary hunger resonates with SMAC, our retail partners, and our SMAC member base.”
Meanwhile, Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, emphasized the importance of working with SMAC.
“This cooperation extends beyond seasonal efforts to provide families with long-term support. We are laying the groundwork for long-term change by reducing involuntary hunger and empowering households to better their livelihoods. We are delighted to continue this effort and invite other organizations to partner with us so that we can make a difference,” Crisanto stated.
The Hapag Movement’s partner organizations include the UN World Food Programme, the Ayala Foundation, and World Vision Philippines.
2GO, the Philippines’ leading end-to-end logistics provider, has partnered with Bankerohan, Davao City’s largest wet market and the region’s main hub for fresh produce and seafood, to deliver said goods directly to customers nationwide.
With 2GO’s advanced logistics, including temperature-controlled transport, delivering fresh fruits from Davao to any part of the Philippines is now more convenient. Whether you’re sending a gift, enjoying Davao’s produce at home, or sourcing quality goods for your business, 2GO guarantees that every purchase from Bankerohan arrives fresh and in perfect condition.
“Partnering with 2GO will allow people and markets in other parts of the country to experience the unique offerings of Bankerohan as a source of fresh produce, starting with the abundant fruits and vegetables of Mindanao,” said Sim Marifori, President and CEO of Northbank Holdings Corporation, which operates Bankerohan.
He added, “With 2GO as our partner, farmers, traders, and merchants can ship directly from Bankerohan to destinations across the country, without incurring additional handling and trucking costs. This also shortens time-to-market—a critical factor for fresh produce—reducing the risk of bruising and spoilage.”
2GO’s extensive logistics network and expertise in handling perishable goods make it the ideal partner for Bankerohan, further supporting local businesses and celebrating Davao City’s rich agricultural heritage.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bankerohan to share Davao’s bountiful harvests with the rest of the Philippines,” said Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head at 2GO Forwarding. “Our goal is to make these exceptional products accessible to everyone, allowing more Filipinos to enjoy the unique flavors that Davao has to offer.”
This partnership not only boosts the local economy but also ensures that the fruits of Davao City can be enjoyed by people all over the country, fresh and ready to eat.
For inquiries, email us at forwarding_sales_mnl@2go.com.ph, visit your nearest 2GO retail store, or explore our website at www.2go.com.ph.
The 17th Reggie Padua Cup Invitational Golf Tournament is open to UP Triskelion Alumni Association Inc. (UP TAAI) members and will take place on October 3, 2024, at Camp Aguinaldo Golf Course. Participate in the “Hole in One Challenge” to win exciting prizes such as brand-new cars, a premium golf set, and other great prizes. SOCEX Consulting Corporation is organising this event in partnership with UP TAAI and proceeds are intended for the benefit of the National Children’s Hospital. To register and purchase tickets, call 0927 582 0992.
Salvador “Bogs” Violago meets with the local press at the Midas Hotel to share his vision for Bulacan.
Salvador “Bogs” Violago, the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP)’s officially endorsed candidate for Governor of Bulacan, spoke with the local press at the Midas Hotel just two weeks before publicly registering his candidature. The event, professionally managed by SOCEX Consulting Corp., allowed Violago to express his undying dedication to “Asenso Bulakenyo” and his platform of “Tunay na Pagbabagong Ramdam ng Lahat”.
Key Highlights of the Press Meet:
• Violago outlined plans to improve Bulacan’s infrastructure and disaster preparedness under his Resilient Development initiative. His measures include strengthening public facilities and putting in place thorough disaster response plans to ensure the province can efficiently recover from diverse problems.
• The candidate pledged to create jobs, improve educational access, and increase healthcare services to promote equity. Violago wants to make sure that every Bulakenyo gets the opportunity to succeed.
• Violago committed to transparent governance, including open data policy and community engagement in decision-making processes.
• His vision aims to promote environmental sustainability, preserve Bulacan’s cultural legacy, and adopt progressive policies for long-term growth.
“My vision for Bulacan is not just about promises but about real, tangible progress,” Violago told the crowd. “Asenso Bulakenyo reflects my commitment to creating a thriving and inclusive province where every Bulakenyo can achieve their full potential.”
The press conference effectively demonstrated Violago’s commitment and strategic approach to governing. SOCEX Consulting Corp.’s contribution was critical to presenting a professional and impactful presentation of Violago’s vision for Bulacan’s future. He urges the people of Bulacan to experience his leadership and discover the “real change” they have been looking for.
ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports betting app, recently welcomed Austin Reaves as its newest brand endorser and celebrated the partnership with various activities on August 3, 2024, at Shangri-La the Fort.
The brand, known for supporting athletes in their endeavors, had expressed excitement at bringing Reaves into the fold. The partnership was described as a big milestone for ArenaPlus, showing how much more, it has grown and been able to work with various athletes since it was launched.
President Jasper Vicencio of Total Gamezone Xtreme, Inc. during his opening remarks.
ArenaPlus held a press conference in the morning to make an official announcement, followed by an exclusive fan meet where several fans spent the afternoon with Reaves. The day then concluded with a private dinner with ArenaPlus VIPs and a few basketball fans to commemorate both the partnership with Reaves and the support the brand has received from its players.
Press Conference at Shangri-La the Fort
In his opening speech during the press conference, President Jasper Vicencio of Total Gamezone Xtreme, Inc. had remarked upon how far ArenaPlus has come in recent years. Its efforts have allowed it to expand operations, work in even greater capacities and provide more athletes with a wider range of support.
“ArenaPlus, more than anything, places heavy importance on those who play and enjoy sports,” Vicencio continued to say, highlighting the core of ArenaPlus’ work and advocacy. “As much as we value creating memorable entertainment experiences, we also want to nourish our support to the athletes, especially those in the court.”
Shot of the press conference proper during the Q&A portion with President Jasper Vicencio (left), Austin Reaves (middle), and Reaves’ business representative Aaron Reilly (right)
This partnership comes from ArenaPlus’ belief in Reaves’ dedication and professionalism, two facets of the Lakers player that the brand deeply values. As the leading sports entertainment app in the Philippines, ArenaPlus is mindful to only work with the best so that it can further elevate sports appreciation in Filipinos.
During the Q&A portion of the press conference, Vicencio had further expounded on this as he spoke about the significance of ArenaPlus working with several well-known athletes.
“We used to have such a small reach, but now we’re being acknowledged by these amazing people and we’re able to easily offer them the support they deserve,” Vicenco said, “These partnerships are also milestones in our commitment to both elevating the quality of sports entertainment and standing alongside our athletes.”
Vicenco later addressed Reaves and his team, “To Austin and his team, I want to express my most heartfelt thanks. It truly does mean a lot to us that you’ve joined the ArenaPlus family. Having someone of your caliber among us is a source of inspiration and pride and will push us to do our best as well.”
President Jasper Vicencio (left), Austin Reaves (middle), and Reaves’ business representative Aaron Reilly (right) finalizing the ArenaPlus x Austin Reaves partnership.
Reaves recalled his experience about the warm welcome from the Filipinos. “It feels like home. I’ve been here before, so it feels like home. The Filipinos are big sports fans. They know sports well so partnering with ArenaPlus is like connecting back with everybody,”
In addition, Reaves expressed his gratitude to the brand for the opportunity given to him and his team. “I never thought in my life to get this far, being from a small town where few people get the opportunity to do what I’m doing. Every day I wake up and try to cherish that. So, to be able to be a brand ambassador for ArenaPlus is very special, not just for me but for all of us.”
ArenaPlus concluded the press conference with a raffle giveaway featuring merchandise signed by Reaves and a photo opportunity.
Fan Meet at Kerry Sports
Following the press conference, ArenaPlus brought Reaves to the Kerry Sports Gym in Shangri-La the Fort for a fan meet called the “Courtside Takeover” in the afternoon. Attendees included fans, online creators, and media partners. The meeting had several segments, including a Q&A, games, and a raffle.
Reaves during the Q&A segment of the fan meet.
ArenaPlus hosted three games to increase engagement with the attendees and maintain their excitement while they waited for Reaves to arrive. The first game tested the trivia knowledge of eventgoers, with the topics centered around Reaves and the Lakers. The second game, called “Over or Under,” challenged 10 random guests to figure out which of the two Lakers players chosen by ArenaPlus had the higher point average. The last game was “Swing the Rock,” which featured five random players shooting baskets at targets of varying sizes. Winners received gift certificates and prepaid load cards, while ArenaPlus merchandise was given out as consolation prizes.
A smaller segment was held after the games, where two fans with the best Lakers merchandise were selected.
Once Reaves joined the meet, selected fans were invited to take part in the Q&A portion to get to know ArenaPlus’ newest endorser even better. The questions centered around team preparations and his source of inspiration.
ArenaPlus then treated attendees to another game after the Q&A, this time with the participation of Reaves. Dubbed the “Reaves Masterclass,” two or more players had to try and mimic basketball moves under Reaves’ instruction and coaching. Reaves judged and scored each attendee with scorecards, with the highest scoring player named the winner.
A shot of Reaves signing merchandise during the fan meet.
The fan meet finished with a raffle, followed by a meet and greet with Reaves for 20 lucky fans to have a photo-op with him as well as have their merchandise signed. The 20 lucky fans comprised 15 pre-drawn names, the winners from “Over or Under,” “Swing the Rock,” and “Reaves Masterclass,” and the two owners of the event’s “Best Lakers Merch.” Event-goers later went home with ArenaPlus loot bags to finish the day.
ArenaPlus continues to be an active member of the sports scene as it draws inspiration from the athletes it strives to support while working towards making sports more fun and entertaining for Filipinos. By inking a partnership with Austin Reaves, ArenaPlus draws closer to its goal of becoming the key source of sports entertainment in the Philippines as well as a trustworthy partner to various sports organizations.
DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms, BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. ArenaPlus, the leading sports betting app that provides various sports live streaming in the Philippines, serves as the leading sports entertainment gateway for Filipinos. For more information, visit: www.arenaplus.net.
ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports betting app, joins with countless Filipinos across the globe in celebrating the “HIStoric” double gold medal win of its official brand ambassador, Carlos Yulo, in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Having sent Yulo off to the Olympics with a loud cheer of support last June 2024, ArenaPlus is now ready to welcome home the country’s golden boy with open arms after he became the second Philippine Olympic champion following his floor exercise routine on August 3, Saturday. The brand had been ecstatic about his initial win; the energy later shot up when a second golden medal was announced for the vault exercise on August 4, Sunday.
These hard-won triumphs have earned Yulo a grand reward from ArenaPlus, both as an acknowledgement of his hard work and a show of pride in his success.
In addition, ArenaPlus will be giving Php 5 million in cash to its official brand ambassador and golden boy Yulo, dubbed “Astig Hero Bonus.”.
Of course, ArenaPlus will not turn a blind eye to the other Philippine athletes who have raised the country’s flag at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The brand stands with each of the athletes who have fought long and hard, and recognises everything they have done and gone through.
ArenaPlus salutes the other athletes who comprise Team Philippines for the 2024 Olympics: EJ Obiena, Lauren Hoffman, and John Cabang Tolentino for Athletics; guaranteed bronze medalist Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, Hergie Bacyadan, guaranteed bronze medalist Aira Villegas, and fellow ArenaPlus endorser Eumir Marcial for Boxing; Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar for Gymnastics; gold medalist hopefuls Elreen Ando, John Ceniza, and Vanessa Sarno for Weightlifting; Bianca Pagdanganan and Dottie Ardina for Golf; Kayla Sanchez and Jarod Hatch for Swimming; Joanie Delgaco for Rowing; Samantha Catantan for Fencing; and Kiyomi Watanabe for Judo.
For ArenaPlus, the Olympic gold is more than just an incredible achievement on the global stage. It also stands as a source of inspiration that will push Filipinos, as well as ArenaPlus, to continue pushing forward to attain their goals. Truly, Yulo, alongside his fellow Philippine athletes, have won the “Ginto para sa mga Astig na Atleta.”
