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Showing posts from September, 2024

4 in 5 Filipinos are Planning to Start a Small Business in the Next 18 Months – Herbalife Survey

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  Most entrepreneurs in Philippines (86%) consider Direct Selling as a potential business option MANILA, Philippines – Herbalife, a premier health and wellness company and community, today released findings from its Asia Pacific Business of Wellness Survey, which revealed that despite concerns about the current state of the economy, more than four in five (81%) aspiring entrepreneurs in Philippines plan to start a small business in the next 18 months. In addition, there is positive sentiment for entrepreneurship with 89% of respondents expressing optimism about entrepreneurial pursuits in the coming months. The survey also revealed opportunities in the health and wellness sector as seen from both a consumer and business potential perspective: ·          Over half (57%) of Filipino respondents say they plan to increase spending in the health and wellness sector this year. ·          Aspiring entrepreneurs ranked health and wellness as the fourth (16%) most attractive indust

BuildHub PH Partners with BPI to Offer up to ₱30-M Credit Line for Construction Businesses

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  23 September 2024, Manila, Philippines – BuildHub PH , a B2B online marketplace providing a centralized system for the construction industry, has partnered with the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) to offer construction businesses access to up to ₱30 million in credit line with collateral-free options.  Launched on September 10, 2024, at BPI’s Ayala Triangle Gardens office, the initiative aims to support hardware stores and contractors nationwide by expanding financing options through BPI’s Ka-Negosyo Credit Line (KCL) . As part of this collaboration, BuildHub PH signed a Platform Financing Partner Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with BPI, marking a significant milestone in their efforts to offer innovative financial solutions to the construction sector. The partnership is further strengthened by KCL, which offers pre-assessed BuildCredit users with active accounts on the platform for at least 12 months, the opportunity to receive up to Php 30 million credit line with a collateral

The Manila Hotel Unveils Early Holiday Cheer with Discounted Christmas Hampers

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The Manila Hotel is ushering in the holiday season early with its Christmas Hamper early bird offer. From September 16 to October 31, 2024, guests can enjoy a 20% discount on thoughtfully assembled gift baskets brimming with festive treats and signature goodies.  This year’s hampers are inspired by Filipino salakot, a traditional headgear, adding a cultural touch to the holiday celebrations. This limited-time offer gives patrons a head start on their holiday shopping, ensuring they can share the joy of the season with beautifully presented gifts. The Standard Hamper is priced at Php 2,304 (regularly Php 2,880) that includes Bahay Kubo Gingerbread, Christmas Cookies, Fruitcake, Harana Pralines, Cashew Raisin Cluster, The Manila Hotel Facade Chocolate Bar, and a Santa with Bag Chocolate. The Deluxe Hamper, available for Php 5,504 (regularly Php 6,880) offers an elevated collection, featuring Bahay Kubo Gingerbread, Pili Nut Pralines, Fruitcake, Food for the Gods,

Bossjob introduces AI-powered recruitment solutions for SMEs at National Retail Conference Expo 2024

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  24 September 2024, Manila, Philippines  —  Bossjob , the chat-first career platform for professional hiring in Southeast Asia (SEA), showcased its innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven solutions for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) at the National Retail Conference Expo (NRCE) 2024. NRCE, the largest and longest-running retail event in the Philippines, organized by the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), celebrates 30 years of shaping the retail industry. This year’s theme, “Retail Today, Empowering Tomorrow,” reflects Bossjob’s mission to empower businesses in today’s evolving job market. The platform's innovative tools are designed to help small retailers embrace digital transformation and streamline their hiring operations. With  over 99%  of businesses in the Philippines classified as SMEs, talent acquisition  remains a challenge . Moreover,  89% of Filipino business leaders  recognize the critical role AI plays in maintaining competitiveness. Bossjob’s AI-dri

PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund, your gateway to financial growth

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    Manila – In today's world, technology drives everything we do. From AI and 5G to Cloud Storage and Gaming—tech is at the core of our lives. To harness growth in this dynamic sector, Pru Life UK introduces the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund (the “Fund”)—your gateway to investing in the future of technology. The Fund is a Peso-denominated investment vehicle focused on global companies at the forefront of technological advancements. It offers access to the ATRAM Global Technology Feeder Fund of ATRAM Trust Corporation (“ATRAM”) whose target fund is Fidelity International’s Fidelity Funds - Global Technology Fund (the “Target Fund”). The Target Fund is one of the largest in the world with USD 23.9 billion in assets as of July 2024. Meanwhile, ATRAM is the leading digitally-powered asset and wealth management firm in the Philippines with over PHP 360 billion in assets under management as of June 2024.   “The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is proof of our purpose to he

Edwin "Daddy Ed" Coquilla: Advocate for Environmental Preservation and Sustainability

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  Edwin "Daddy Ed" Coquilla, a passionate advocate for Environmental Preservation, has been at the forefront of The Project Eight Initiative’s efforts to promote sustainability. With a deep commitment to recycling, reducing, and reusing products, Daddy Ed has dedicated much of his time and energy to raising awareness about the importance of environmental conservation. A family man at heart, Daddy Ed instills the values of sustainability in his own household. At home, he and his family practice strict garbage segregation, ensuring that recyclable materials are properly sorted and waste is minimized. This personal commitment reflects his belief that environmental responsibility starts at the individual level, and the habits formed within our homes can have a significant impact on the planet. Daddy Ed’s passion for sustainability doesn’t stop at recycling. He is also deeply involved in disaster preparedness, recognizing the critical connection between environmental health and co

The Manila Hotel Unveils Early Holiday Cheer with Discounted Christmas Hampers

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  This year’s hampers are inspired by Filipino salakot , a traditional headgear, adding a cultural touch to the holiday celebrations. This limited-time offer gives patrons a head start on their holiday shopping, ensuring they can share the joy of the season with beautifully presented gifts. The Manila  Hotel is ushering in the holiday season early with its Christmas Hamper early bird offer. From September 16 to October 31, 2024, guests can enjoy a 20% discount on thoughtfully assembled gift baskets brimming with festive treats and signature goodies. The Standard Hamper is priced at Php 2,304 (regularly Php 2,880) that includes Bahay Kubo Gingerbread, Christmas Cookies, Fruitcake, Harana Pralines, Cashew Raisin Cluster, The Manila Hotel Facade Chocolate Bar, and a Santa with Bag Chocolate.   The Deluxe Hamper, available for Php 5,504 (regularly Php 6,880) offers an elevated collection, featuring Bahay Kubo Gingerbread, Pili Nut Pralines, Fruitcake, Food for the Gods, Mango Nut Cluster,

*Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2024 Honors Top Achievers and Companies in

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A Grand Celebration* Last *September 8, 2024*, the *Philippine Finest Business Awards & Outstanding Achievers 2024* took center stage at *The Hexagon Events Place*, celebrating the most exceptional individuals and businesses in the country.  The event, organized by *La Visual Corporation* and *SIRBISU Channel*, recognized both rising talents and seasoned achievers, with a focus on innovation, excellence, and significant contributions across industries.  The day's *press conference* was a key moment, featuring well-known names and awardees. In attendance were *Derwen Lipardo* of *Gown and Events Management by Touting*, *Lae Mañego*, Asia’s Queen of Fire, *Salvie Paparon* of *Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services*, and *Diwata*, a celebrated influencer. Renowned photographer *Jamin Lim* and *Bhinky Reyes* of *The Voice Academy of the Philippines* also took part in the event, alongside representatives from *Kylledmed Philippines*, *JP Catering*, *Intele Builders and Developme

Catch Awesome Adventures at 7-Eleven: Pokémon Teams Up with Convenience Store Giant for Special Merch and More!

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In its constant pursuit to foster community, 7-Eleven has mastered collaborating with popular brands that can stir excitement among its customers. This month, 7-Eleven goers can jump on another awesome adventure as a legendary partnership is making noise in regions far and wide: that between the convenience store giant and one of the most beloved media franchises in the world, Pokémon. A brand that’s captured the hearts of many with its range of video games, animated series and films, trading cards, and mobile apps, Pokémon’s zest for exploration will definitely provide an irresistible thrill for fans of the franchise and 7-Eleven alike. The partnership was launched last September 13, 2024 with a ribbon-cutting held at 7-Eleven Centris 1 in Quezon City. Present at the milestone occasion were representatives from 7-Eleven Philippines, The Pokémon Company, and Niantic Inc., the company of the mobile game Pokémon GO. Both brands kicked things off by dressing up 7-E

SM City Baguio's rainwater treatment facility: A model for water sustainability

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    SM City Baguio is making significant strides in water stewardship with its innovative rainwater treatment facility (RTF), launched in July 2023. In the months since, the facility has already processed over 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater – equivalent to 7 Olympic-size swimming pools, or enough to fill over 6,800 standard water tankers – into potable water for the SM mall’s operations and for their lessees’ use.   SM City Baguio's groundbreaking rainwater treatment facility has treated over 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into drinkable water. This initiative supplements the mall's water supply from the Baguio Water District and significantly contributes to the city's water security and the safety of its residents. Located at the mall’s basement level, the RTF provides 30% of the mall’s total monthly average requirement for clean water that is safe for consumption and food preparation.        "There is a critical need for reliable and safe water sou

SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President

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  SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon. Prosperity for all SM Prime’s developments serve as catalysts for socio-economic progress, delivering tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Founded by Henry Sy, the company remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class developments to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified through the Mall of Asia Complex which offers a blueprint for future cities that go beyond commercial success to embrace a holistic approach to urban development. SM Prime celebrated its 30th year as a publicly listed company last July 23, signifying three decades of service and transformative growth in the Philippine real estate industry. “True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when yo

SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Filtration Facility addresses water security and ensures a safe and sufficient water supply for the operations of the mall and its tenants.

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  SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion. Water stewardship SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices, ensuring that properties developed are more responsive and adaptable to the changing needs of communities. Through its sewage water treatment plants, wastewater is processed, preventing contam

SM City Santa Rosa's solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh.

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  #SMWasteFreeFuture SM Prime launched its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture, in support of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Day of Zero Waste. The program introduces a simple segregation scheme: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC), all aimed at reducing overall waste generation and increasing the waste diversion rate from landfills through sustainable disposal methods. The initiative was launched nationwide for SM employees and across all SM property groups and stakeholders. SM Prime continues to support existing programs and partnerships that promote better waste management solutions. Initiatives such as SM Supermalls’ Trash-to-Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-Waste Collection programs, and regular coastal and estero clean-up activities effectively engage the community in rethinking their relationship with waste. To address food waste, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation (SMHCC) has pioneered projects such as The Sus

SM Prime’s sustainability strategy is built on three main goals: (1) Environmental sustainability, (2) Prosperity for all, and (3) Climate resilience.

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  Building on its sustainability framework of Economy, People, Planet, and Community, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: Environmental sustainability, Prosperity for all, and Climate resilience – all aimed to create a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity by 2030, 2040, and beyond. Under its environmental sustainability strategy are two significant programs released by the company:   Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture. Net Zero by 2040 SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050. “We

SM Prime: Engineering a sustainable future

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  SM Prime leads the way in sustainable development, integrating sustainability into its core business strategy. Sustainability has become a driving force across every industry. For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, sustainability is elevated through a strategic framework that leverages the company’s extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence. SM Prime’s sustainability journey began in the 1990s, guided by a focus on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, favoring strategies grounded on real-world application rather than flashy, short-term fixes.   Its strategy is built on what truly matters to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are both effective and enduring. In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainab

Create waves of positive change with SM at the 2024 International Coastal Clean-Up

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  The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year and is shaping up to be the biggest one yet, taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the country: SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. Together, we can make a significant impact on our oceans and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all. In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive impact on the environment, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a vo

Embracing net zero: The Philippines' urgent call to climate action

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  As we enter the typhoon season, recent extreme weather events have once again underscored the Philippines' vulnerability to such conditions. As the nation grapples with the potential aftermath, it is clear that being part of the global conversation on achieving net zero emissions is imperative. This typhoon has highlighted the urgency for the Philippines to be an active participant in the fight against climate change, not only to mitigate future impacts but to also contribute to global solutions. The concept of net zero refers to balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. For the Philippines, a country frequently in the crosshairs of severe weather, achieving net zero is a crucial step towards enhancing climate resilience. The recent typhoon has made it evident that the country cannot afford to be a bystander in the global efforts to combat climate change. Instead, it must be a proactive player, advocating for and i