April 29, 2024

We would like to address recent rumors and negative posts circulating on social media that allege Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil, the newly appointed chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), is removing the rice allowances of PNP personnel and donating them to persons deprived of liberty (PDL).

PNP Chief Marbil categorically denies these baseless accusations, stating that he has not issued any directive concerning the rice allowances of PNP personnel nor does he have any intention to do so. These malicious attacks are clearly orchestrated by individuals seeking to discredit Chief Marbil, who has expressed his commitment to restore the reputation of the police force through smart policing methods. It is evident that those who have tarnished the name of the PNP are resorting to fabricating lies to malign his policies as the new PNP chief and incite these unwarranted attacks.

Under Chief Marbil's leadership, the PNP is dedicated to shifting away from the language of "war" in addressing the country's illegal drug menace. The term "war on drugs" has unfortunately become associated with widespread human rights abuses in the past. Chief Marbil aims to introduce essential reforms within the PNP, focusing on the following initial guidelines:

1. Limited duration for mass formation and flag-raising ceremonies (15 to 20 minutes).

2. Prompt presence and functionality in respective offices before 8:00 am.

3. Strict prohibition of cellphone use while on patrol duty, with severe penalties for violators.

4. Simplification of PNP personnel compliances to make their lives easier.

5. Implementation of new Unit Performance Evaluation Rating (UPER) criteria.

6. Accomplishment of 70% of warrants of arrests for wanted individuals.

7. Removal of favoritism in promotion and assignments.

8. Elimination of exclusivity for promotion among 3rd level Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs).

9. Restriction of Police Community Relations (PCR) activities to Police Regional Offices (PROs) only, excluding National Operational Support Unit (NOSU) and National Administrative Support Unit (NASU).

10. Non-reassignment of any PNP personnel facing a case to their previous units.

11. Conducting meetings exclusively through Zoom conference to optimize the time of unit commanders.

12. No changes in effect for a period of one (1) month.

13. Removal of 24-hour duty for police personnel.

Regrettably, attackers of the PNP Chief have added three fake items to the aforementioned guidelines, which we would like to clarify:

14. The inclusion of an inverted crawl in the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is a malicious falsehood as it contradicts the intention of making things easier for our personnel (Item No. 4).

15. Rice subsidy, Combat Incentive Pay (CIP), and Combat Duty Pay (CDP) are automatically topped up to the regular salaries of PNP personnel through their ATM cards. It is impossible to donate these allowances, as suggested in the fake item (No. 15).

16. Salary increases come naturally with promotions, and there is no need for a separate announcement, as falsely stated in fake item No. 16.

Chief Marbil warns those who seek to discredit him and hinder his plans for the PNP that he will not tolerate these vicious assaults against the leadership. “A thorough investigation is currently underway to identify the source of this malicious campaign, and those responsible will face the harshest possible sanctions,” he stated.

We urge the public to remain vigilant against false information and to rely on verified sources for accurate updates regarding the PNP's policies and initiatives. The PNP, under Chief Marbil's guidance, is unwavering in its commitment to serve and protect the Filipino people with utmost professionalism and integrity.

April 29, 2024

April 29, 2024

A dedicated teacher from PSD provides a hands-on lecture inside their newly rehabilitated school building.Being hearing-impaired is a challenge in itself, navigating a world where communication relies heavily on spoken words.

In the Philippines, this challenge further creates a gap, as opportunities for the deaf are limited, particularly in education and employment. The struggle is intensified as only a few secondary learning institutions are catering to their unique needs, with affordability and facility conditions further hindering their pursuit of skills and knowledge.

Shery Funcion, the Principal the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City, is no stranger to these challenges.

Her dedication to the cause began with her college thesis, focusing on job opportunities for deaf learners. Since then, she has immersed herself in various organizations and volunteer activities, gaining firsthand insights into the limited opportunities available to deaf learners.

She eventually became a SPED teacher, before taking on the role of principal in PSD.

"The immersive experience really showed me how important these projects are for our students—kung gaano kahalaga ang pagbibigay ng mga pasilidad sa mga mag aaral lalo na sa mga bingi," she underscored the importance of providing facilities for students with hearing impairment.

The collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City equips students with in-demand skills that will prepare them for employment upon graduation.

In the century-old PSD, their senior high school laboratory building serves as the training ground for students. Its classrooms and halls, no matter how old, have always played their role in honing and preparing deaf students to have solid career prospects after PSD.

Amidst the competing priorities within the school and the broader Philippine educational system, the facility barely had enough funds for the rehabilitation and major repairs it needed. For years, students and teachers worked around issues ranging from dim lighting and leaking roofs to uneven floors. These not only presented structural concerns but also hindered the overall learning experience of students.

"Our deaf learners need special accommodation to fulfill their special educational needs. They need to have a conducive learning environment so we can optimize the activities and learning programs," Funcion stressed.

Funcion further shared that the 2023 collaborative project of the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI)—the social good arm of the SM Group, and the Department of Education's Schools Division Office of Pasay City could not have come at a better time.

 "The rehabilitation of the Home Economics (HE) laboratories is crucial because students need to fulfill their performance tasks. These are vital components of our senior high school program to ensure that they acquire essential skills and competencies for employment post-graduation from PSD."

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food and beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.

For Funcion, their Henry Sy. Sr. building serves as a great beginning that will help pave equal opportunities and create a future where deaf students’ abilities will shine within and beyond the four walls of classrooms.

Through the collaboration, PSD has been provided with the much-needed facilities in dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance.

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April 29, 2024

Future sustainability leaders. Strengthening its commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship, SM Prime welcomes ten scholars from UPLB, who are taking up degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

Inspired by the late Henry Sy Sr.'s belief in the power of education and driven by their commitment to sustainability, leading integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has launched a scholarship program in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

Aptly called the "SM Sustainability Scholarship," the initiative reflects SM Prime's commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship.

The program will fully support ten deserving students through their undergraduate studies at UPLB, providing them with the opportunity to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields align with SM Prime's focus on building resilient communities and fostering a sustainable future.

The scholarship recipients, meticulously chosen for their academic excellence and dedication to sustainability, were formally recognized during a meet-and-greet gathering at UPLB, marking the start of their journey as SM Sustainability Scholars.

Each scholar will receive a full scholarship covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and a book allowance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without financial worries.

During the gathering, College of Human Ecology (CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo expressed that the pursuit of sustainability is most effectively undertaken collaboratively.

“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability,” she said.

“I would also like to thank SM Prime for putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders,” she added.

College of Forestry and Natural Resources’ Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza: “We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond.”

SM Prime’s AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo meets the SM sustainability scholars.

Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications, Rida Reyes-Castillo, echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability.

“SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community,” she said. “The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.”

For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment go hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.

This is a paid partnership with SM Prime Holdings.

April 29, 2024

Through the social good collaboration, the laboratory for baking and cookery has been equipped with new tools and furniture, helping conduct more hands-on classes.

To enhance safety and accessibility, ramps and railings were installed throughout the campus, ensuring ease of movement for all students. Aside from revitalizing 10 classrooms, the SM group also refurbished the conference rooms, and the lobby with a reception area to provide a comfortable environment.

Differently abled students from PSD focus as they attend their beauty and cosmetology class in their new building.

Helping instill good hygiene and encourage healthy habits, a handwashing station, and separate male and female toilets were rehabilitated with clean, functional cubicles, urinals, and PWD-friendly facilities.

The covered court was restored with a spacious stage, creating a conducive space for outdoor learning and recreation.

The rehabilitation of the facilities at the PSD was undertaken, not just to address the physical challenges but also to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive. The project stands as a testament to the SM and Henry Sy Foundations’ continued pursuit of inclusivity and its commitment to empowering differently-abled individuals through education.

April 29, 2024

April 27, 2024

Dive into the Excitement of I GOTCHA SURE-PRIZE Machine!

In a world where uncertainty often reigns, Ayala Market! Market! steps up to offer a breath of fresh air with its latest innovation: the I GOTCHA SURE-PRIZE machine. Imagine a world where every attempt guarantees a prize – a reality now made possible by Ayala Market! Market!'s latest offering. 

By simply presenting ₱2000 worth of receipts, whether accumulated or single, alongside your Zing Plus Membership, Ayala Market! Market! welcomes you to the realm of sure-win delights. No more crossing fingers for a lucky draw or facing the dreaded "try again next time" message. Here, victory is assured with every spin! 

Nestled within the vibrant ambiance of the AC Circle, the I GOTCHA SURE-PRIZE machine awaits eager participants until May 9, 2024. It's not just a machine; it's an experience designed to bring joy and excitement to all who partake. 

From tantalizing trinkets to coveted collectibles, each spin promises a delightful surprise. Whether you're a seasoned shopper or a casual passerby, the allure of the I GOTCHA SURE-PRIZE machine beckons, promising an adventure filled with guaranteed rewards. 

So, why wait? Head over to Ayala Market! Market! today, armed with your receipts and Zing Plus Membership, and unlock the gateway to a world where everyone emerges as a winner. Dive into the excitement, embrace the certainty, and let Ayala Market! Market! redefine your shopping experience with the I GOTCHA SURE-PRIZE machine!

#FunInTheFinds #ILoveMarketMarket

Check out related video here:

April 25, 2024

Left to right: Abdul Paravengal - Pulse63 Managing Director; Czar Carbonel - Magwai Organics founder; Pinky T. Yee, Likha Collab and Pure Essentials Specialist Corp. founder; MG Claveria representative of Human Nature; Trixie Odiamar, Isarog Beautanics founder; Marvin Chua, Wonderhome Naturals founder; and Paulo Campos - Kaya Founders Managing General Partner, and Pulse63 Ventures Founding Partner

Pioneering a new era of conscious consumerism, Pinky T. Yee, the visionary behind Pure Essentials Specialist Corp (PESC), introduced Likha Collab to the public sphere on Monday in celebration of Earth Day. This breakthrough e-commerce marketplace is designed to collaborate with Filipino micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME’s) in showcasing their products to a wider audience.

Partnered with Pulse63, a health-focused business accelerator, Yee conceptualized the marketplace as a vetted space for local entrepreneurs and business owners who champion the cause of sustainability, environmental consciousness, and label transparency, while adhering to regulatory guidelines.

Yee expressed her vision for Likha Collab to emerge as the preferred destination for enthusiasts of natural living and advocates of local businesses. The innovative space, she added, was borne out of her “desire to help bring Earth-friendly Filipino-made brands and to transform every Filipino home to conscious and biodegradable living.”

According to Abdul Paravengal, Managing Director of Pulse63, Yee’s advocacy towards healthy living and showcasing selected home-grown brands were among the key factors that led them into collaborating with Likha Collab, empowered by their accelerator program.

Yee also underscored the importance of label literacy and consumer awareness. “We vet our partner brands rigorously, ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies, accurate labeling, and of course, the exclusion of harmful ingredients in their products,” she remarked.

In addition to the marketplace, Likha Collab also launched alongside its accompanying Facebook community, Eco Friends PH, to serve as a platform for individuals embarking on their sustainable living journey. The interactive space serves to inspire and facilitate discussions among consumers and like-minded advocates. It also aspires to become an avenue for industry experts from the medical and business sectors to promote awareness and respond to forums.

Among the pioneer brands that joined the mission of Likha Collab are Oryspa, Human Nature, Magwai, Wonderhome Naturals, Pure Culture, and Isarog. Additionally, the marketplace also includes LivClean, First Skincare, and First Botanicals as its house brands.

"We extend an open invitation to local MSMEs to join us in our commitment to provide homes with products that are free from toxic chemicals, safe for all ages, and beneficial for both the family and the planet," concluded Yee.

Join the movement in making better and responsible choices, and explore Likha Collab’s offerings by visiting www.likhacollab.com.

April 23, 2024

April 17, 2024

LG 2024 OLED evo TVs Demonstrate Company’s Dedication to Sustainability and Highlight Premium Value of LG OLED TVs

LG Electronics (LG) continues to receive recognition for its steadfast commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious practices. LG 2024 OLED evo TVs achieved Reducing CO21 and Measured CO22 certifications from the Carbon Trust3 and Environmentally Evaluated Mark4 from Société Générale de Surveillance SA (SGS), marking the fourth consecutive year of consistent acknowledgement for LG's ESG initiatives. LG’s newest OLED TVs have also earned their second successive Recycled Content certification, further demonstrating LG’s sense of environmental responsibility.

The Carbon Trust works to usher the globe into a future of zero carbon emission by assessing the environmental impact of a product's entire life cycle, from production and distribution to use and disposal. SGS certification focuses on resource efficiency and the presence of hazardous substances, while Intertek measures the percentage of recycled materials used. The organizations’ respective approaches promote responsible consumption practices across diverse industries and contribute to the broader goal of sustainability worldwide.

Notably, the self-lit nature of LG OLED TVs garners significant attention in stringent sustainability evaluations. Unlike LCD TVs, LG OLED TVs do not require a backlight, meaning a simpler structure and fewer necessary components. For instance, LG’s 65-inch OLED evo, made of ultra-light composite fiber, requires only 40 percent of the plastic typically used in an LCD TV of the same size screen and weighs 20 percent less.

Based on the estimated sales of LG OLED TVs this year, the total amount of plastic used in LG OLED TVs from 2022 to 2024 is expected to be 45,000 tons lower than that of LCD TVs sold during the same period. The reduction in plastic usage will lead to a decrease in carbon emissions of approximately 234,000 tons a year, equivalent to the carbon dioxide absorbed by a 30-year-old pine forest. This number translates to one-third of the area of Seoul or about 31,000 soccer fields.

Recycled plastics account for about 20% of the plastic used in the manufacturing of all LG TVs, including OLED TVs, equal to around 4,000 tons of recycled waste plastic annually.

Beyond environmental activities, LG’s various ESG initiatives have received praise from reputable domestic and international organizations. In 2023, LG was named in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the twelfth year in a row. The DJSI World ranks in the top ten percent of the largest 2,500 global companies based on their long-term economic, environmental, social and governance practices. The company’s inclusion on this prestigious list for twelve consecutive years is a significant milestone, as LG is the sole South Korean company in the Leisure Equipment & Products and Consumer Electronics industry category to achieve this feat.

Furthermore, LG has received the ‘Comprehensive A grade’ from the ESG Evaluation and Rating Announcement of Korea ESG Standards Institute (KCGS) for three years running, and last year, the company earned its fourth back-to-back ‘A’ rating from the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) ESG Rating.

“LG OLED TVs lead the market as the ultimate choice for premium viewing experiences, while also going beyond to set the bar for ESG standards,” said Baik Seon-pill, leader of the LG Home Entertainment Company’s Product Planning Division. “LG will remain devoted to continuing efforts toward creating a better planet for all.”

1 77/65/55-inch LG OLED evo G4 models.

2 97/83-inch LG OLED evo G4 models and all LG OLED evo C4 models.

3 Only applies to listed products sold in markets/regions participating in the Carbon Trust’s labeling program.

4 All LG OLED evo G4 and C4 models.

5 All LG OLED evo G4 and C4 models.

About LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company.

The LG Home Entertainment Company is a recognized innovator in televisions and audio-video systems. LG offers an elevated home entertainment experience through its award-winning OLED TVs and QNED LED TVs powered by the innovative webOS smart TV platform. Aiming to help provide consumers with top-class user experience, all of LG’s home entertainment products are designed with environmental sustainability in mind, from production all the way through to disposal. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

April 18, 2024

Dermorepubliq, TikTok Shop Philippines' top skincare brand, has stepped forward as the mastermind behind the viral billboard along C5 Southbound in Libis, Quezon City, which has sparked intrigue from an estimated 30 million social media users with its heartfelt plea to salvage relationships.

The billboard, featuring the message "Wag na tayo mag-break, please" (Let's not break up, please) and signed with the initial "D," initially sparked speculation among netizens. Celebrity actors like Daniel Padilla and Dominic Roque were swiftly linked to the campaign, given their recent public breakups, fueling further speculation about the identity of "D."

The original video that went viral was posted by social media influencer Gifer Fernandez, garnering nearly 20 million views and thousands of reactions, comments, and shares on Facebook alone.

Dermorepubliq's revelation sheds light on the creative campaign behind the emotional appeal. The message was crafted as part of the launch campaign for Dermorepubliq's latest skincare innovation, the 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid serum, which joins the local skincare brand’s meticulously curated range of 28 products.

The newly replaced billboard, situated in the same location, now bears the message, “Sabi ni D, breakout no more sa tulong ni Dermorepubliq with regular use of 5% Niacinamide." (D says, no more breakout with the help of Dermorepubliq with regular use of 5% Niacinamide.)

This breakthrough serum aims to innovate skincare routines by addressing common concerns such as breakouts, blemishes, pore refinement, hydration, and oil regulation. Positioned as an essential addition to any skincare regimen, the serum offers gentle yet effective solutions for individuals seeking radiant and flawless skin.

Keith Sta. Barbara, President and Founder of Dermorepubliq, said, "The unveiling of Dermorepubliq as the force behind the viral billboard narrative underscores our commitment to creativity and innovation in the skincare industry." He emphasized the brand's dedication to providing science-based products that cater to the diverse needs of consumers.

Sta. Barbara added, "Our mission at Dermorepubliq is to empower individuals to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. We believe that skincare should be accessible to all and that our products offer effective solutions for a wide range of skin concerns."

As speculation continues to swirl, Dermorepubliq invites the public to uncover the story behind the billboard's emotive plea and explore its range of innovative skincare products.

Dermorepubliq is a local skincare brand founded in 2020 by Keith Corwin. Specializing in science-based formulations that prioritize quality and results, Dermorepubliq offers a range of 28 meticulously crafted products. Designed for men and women aged 18-35, the brand combines affordability and efficacy, empowering young adults to embrace their skin's natural beauty. With a strong presence on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and physical stores at SM Masinag, SM Tanza, Dermorepubliq has become a leading name in the Philippine skincare industry.

You can find Dermorepubliq’s newest stores at the following locations:

SM Fairview: Lower Ground Level, Parkway

Riverbanks Center: KF-08, Palm Lane

You may also visit their online platforms through the following links:

https://dermorepubliq.com/

https://shopee.ph/dermorepubliq

https://www.lazada.com.ph/dermorepubliq

https://www.tiktok.com/@dermorepubliq

April 18, 2024