PLDT Home remains undisputed as the fastest broadband network in the Philippines

PLDT Home remains undisputed as the fastest broadband network in the Philippines, dominating telco rivals with a Speed Score of 77.24 at the Ookla Speedtest Awards for Q3-Q4 2021.

The latest result showed a big jump from PLDT’s Speed Score of 27.28 in the second half of the previous year. Speed Score is a measure that takes into account both upload and download speeds. 

 

Latest data from the global benchmarking company also showed PLDT besting all other internet service providers (ISPs) in the country with top upload and download speeds of 217.07 Mbps and 203.97 Mbps, respectively. 

 

In determining the network speed of ISPs, Ookla compared data gathered from millions of consumer-initiated tests taken on Speedtest platforms. The data include tests done by Filipino internet users on various networks using digital devices connected via Wi-Fi and fixed networks.

 

“Fast internet is no longer a luxury because it’s what Filipinos depend on to earn, work, and study from home. We’ve been relentless in continuously building and upgrading our network so that our customers enjoy better and future-ready homes,” says Butch G. Jimenez, Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

 

Fastest Broadband in PH’s Key Cities 

Based on the latest Ookla® data, PLDT registered the highest upload and download speeds in key major cities in the Philippines – Manila, Cebu and Davao Cities. 

 

In Manila, PLDT bested major ISPs - including Converge, Globe, and Sky – with upload and download speeds of 54.52 Mbps and 58.57 Mbps, respectively. In Cebu, PLDT recorded 76.14 Mbps and 74.22 Mbps upload and download speeds, respectively. In Davao, PLDT is the fastest fixed network over ISPs Globe and Sky, with upload and download speeds of 70.06 Mbps and 71.50 Mbps, respectively. 

 

 

When analyzing the fastest ISPs, Ookla assesses the fastest network speeds attained across a given network, accounting for tests that are taken on various Speedtest applications that connect to a fixed network, including tests taken on mobile phones over a Wi-Fi connection. Each top carrier accounts for at least 3% of the sample size in the geographic area.

 

Setting the Bar for PH Internet Speeds

PLDT consistently dominates the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™ in the past four years as a result of the telco giant’s aggressive network expansion initiatives. In the second half of 2021, PLDT Home launched its biggest speed upgrade for customers with thrice as much speeds versus the previous broadband plans. 

 

In November 2021, PLDT Home launched the country’s first-ever 10,000 Mbps fiber-optic service in the Philippines, putting the country alongside first-world nations that have access to such ultra-fast home interne speeds such as South Korea, Japan, Sweden, Norway, Italy, New Zealand, and USA. 

 

“The demand for the fastest broadband in the Philippines remains strong and we’re investing as well in our capabilities to install, upgrade, and repair throughout the year,” concludes Butch G. Jimenez, Jr., Senior Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Business.

 

PLDT Home continues to set the bar for the future of home internet connectivity in the Philippines as it provides access to future-ready innovations including top-of-the-line Smart Home solutions such as Wifi Mesh devices, Entertainment and Security services bundled with its flexible broadband plans. 

 

All these innovations are powered by the PLDT’s widest network in the country with its fiber infrastructure expanded to 743,700 kilometers, extending its reach to 13.9 million homes passed, and with over 5.77 million fiber-powered ports. 

 

To date, PLDT Home has connected over 3.6 Million subscribers, proving to be the most trusted telco of Filipino families for fast internet speeds for work at home, online school, and family entertainment at home amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic in the country. 

 

More information on PLDT Home, visit www.pldthome.com.

NutriAsia provides free COVID-19 vaccines to its employees and their qualified dependents

NutriAsia, the Philippines’ leading company for condiments and sauces, attributes its success to its people who are committed to providing excellent and quality products for every Filipino household.  As such, the company considers People its most important asset and is providing free COVID-19 vaccines to its employees and their qualified dependents to protect them and safeguard their good health.  The implementation of the planned vaccination program will follow government regulations and guidelines.  

“A staple on every Filipino table, NutriAsia and its brands are wholeheartedly committed to aid our national government in its pursuit to fight COVID-19 and its effects. We are choosing to proactively be part of the solution to end the worst public health crisis in a century with the decision to give our employees and three of their qualified dependents the option to be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus,” says Joselito Campos, Jr., Chairman of NutriAsia.  “Knowing that family is at the heart of any person, we feel that extending the vaccination option to our employees’ dependents will give our people peace of mind with the assurance of their loved ones’ health and safety.  This is important as our employees continue to help rebuild the economy through invaluable frontline work at NutriAsia by providing basic food products for their countrymen.” 

 Guided by Filipino values that have shaped how the company has moved forward, NutriAsia will continue to agilely respond to the changing nature of the pandemic, as it remains a steadfast partner of Filipino homes all over the world in looking forward to better, brighter days ahead. 

What you need to know about the Revised Rules on Evidence

No less than 26th Supreme Court Chief Justice Diosdado M. Peralta and Court of Appeals Associate Justice Eduardo B. Peralta, Jr. wrote the much-awaited book titled “Insights on Evidence”, which contains the most updated Supreme Court revisions on the Philippines’ rules on evidence.

 

In his foreword for the book, Justice Romeo J. Callejo, Sr., Vice-Chancellor of the Philippine Judicial Academy (PHILJA), said that this book “aims to highlight the salient points of the 2019 Rules on Evidence, reconcile its provisions with those of the retained rules, and address the gaps or inconsistencies that might result in the application of the new procedural rules.” 

 

This latest edition will be “even more comprehensive, given the recent approval of the 2019 Proposed Amendments to the Revised Rules on Evidence,” he added.

 

Highlighting the indispensable role of the rules on evidence in insuring “a better quality of justice for its various rules prevent the tampering of truth” so that “its mastery by our arbiters of justice is a must for its wrong application is certain to result in failure of justice,” former Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno, who initiated back in 2008 the proposed amendments to the Revised Rules on Evidence, lauded the book for having drawn on the “wisdom of the most learned commentators on the law on evidence like McCormick, Mueller, Kirkpatrick, Lempert, Saltzburg, and others.”

                                         Justice Eduardo Peralta, Jr.

 

Chief Justice Peralta said he is grateful and appreciative of his co-author, Justice Eduardo Peralta, Jr. “for allowing him to make a humble contribution to his opus: Perspectives of Evidence,” describing him as “one of the leading lights and a credible authority in the intricacies of remedial law.”

 

                                Supreme Court Justice Diosdado Peralta

For his part, Justice Eduardo Peralta, Jr. said that “to collaborate with no less than the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in spurring a project on the new Rules on Evidence, following promulgation by the Supreme Court of A.M. No. 19-08-15-SC on October 8, 2019 effective May 1, 2020, was definitely a daunting task.”

 

He adds: “With invocation of divine intercession and focus amidst the global pandemic since December 2019, the product labelled Insights on Evidence finally materialized.”

 

DENR awards wildlife defenders during World Wildlife Day

Protect wildlife habitats. Habitat loss is one of the biggest causes of extinction and it would have a big impact on us humans.

DENR awarded law enforcement agencies during the 7th Wildlife Enforcement Awards held at Wildlife Training Center in QC last March 3. 

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced that it will intensify efforts to combat wildlife crime, in partnership with law enforcement agencies such as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), during the 7th Wildlife Enforcement Awards held on World Wildlife Day.  

“Our endemic species face the threat of extinction if we do not intensify our law enforcement to crack down illegal wildlife trafficking and other environmental crimes.  We honor the valiant efforts of our enforcers who risk their lives to protect our country’s wildlife resources from poaching, trafficking and overexploitation,” said DENR Undersecretary Ernesto Adobo, Jr.

“We are currently working with Congress to establish an environmental protection and enforcement bureau that will provide the DENR stronger powers and full authority to police wildlife traffickers, illegal loggers, and other environmental criminals,” he added.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) who are working with DENR-Biodiversity Management Bureau on projects to address wildlife and environmental crime, were on hand to reaffirm their continued support for the Philippine government’s efforts.

Over the last four years, USAID has supported DENR with enforcement, policy, research, private sector financing, behavior change communication, as well as providing advanced training programs covering wildlife crime scene investigations, advanced intelligence and investigation techniques, and wildlife identification along with improving the wildlife forensics capacity of the Philippines.  WildALERT – a mobile application to aid DENR personnel and law enforcement partners in identifying wildlife species and reporting wildlife crimes while on the field, was also launched.

ADB  is supporting DENR-BMB in its efforts to: (i) strengthen policies and legal frameworks to address large-scale wildlife trafficking, in particular to amend the 19-year old Philippine Wildlife Act, RA 9147 (ii) enhance inter-agency collaboration and information sharing through tools such as the E-CITES online permitting system to prevent fraud and wildlife smuggling, port monitoring assessments, and trainings in cooperation with United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and  (iii)  reducing consumer demand for wildlife and wildlife products and make the public and policymakers aware of the long-term value of wildlife to the Philippine economy.

A Joint Declaration Against Wildlife Crime requesting Congress to pass the proposed amendments to RA 9147 in the most expeditious way possible and declaring large-scale illegal wildlife trade as a serious transnational crime that requires close collaboration among law enforcement agencies, was also unveiled.  The declaration also welcomes the inclusion of violations of sections in RA 9147 in the list of predicate crimes to money laundering, consistent with the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001.



The DENR also highlighted its awareness campaigns, #STOPILLEGALWILDLIFETRADE and#BETTERWILDANDALIVE, supported by the ADB and USAID, to raise awareness around illegal wildlife trade, and the urgent need for collective action by government, civil society, private sector, and individuals to help conserve wildlife. 

This year’s celebration of World Wildlife Day is an opportunity for people to recognize the important role of wildlife in our ecology while advocating for its protection, to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the benefits of greater biodiversity.  It also included a ceremonial turnover of a new X-Ray Machine to the National Wildlife Rescue and Research Center, and the 5th National Wildlife Quiz Bee Contest.

PLDT-Smart Omega wins The Nationals Mobile Legends Conference

PLDT-Smart Omega proved to be unstoppable as it emerged as the first champion of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Conference 1 of The Nationals held at Eastwood City, Libis.



Formed in partnership with professional esports management Sterling Global Dragons, PLDT-Smart Omega represents the country’s biggest telcos at The Nationals, the country's first franchise-based esports league.

PLDT-Smart Omega members Dexter “Exort” Martinez, Adrian “Toshi” Bacallo, EJ “Heath” Esperanza, Anthony Dennis “Ynot” Senedrin, Kenneth “Kenji” Villa, 21, Paul “Kingpin” Rabandaban, and Jay “Crypzu” Villanueva—some of the best Mobile Legends: Bang Bang players in the country—were met warmly by Pangilinan and PLDT-Smart executives including PLDT Group Chief Revenue Officer and Smart Communications President Al S. Panlilio, PLDT SVP and Head of Consumer Business-Home Group Butch G. Jimenez Jr., and PLDT SVP and Head of Consumer Business-Individual Group Oscar Enrico A. Reyes, Jr. during the visit following their historic victory at The Nationals.


PLDT-Smart Omega comprises of the country’s youngest and top esports athletes including Dexter “Exort” Martinez, 22, top Kadita and Harith user in the Philippines; Adrian “Toshi” Bacallo, 18, one of the top marksman in the country; EJ “Heath” Esperanza, 23, dubbed as the best minotaur and Lolita user in the country; Kenneth “Kenji” Villa, 21,  one of the top fighter-user/ offlaner in the Philippines. Paul “Kingpin” Rabandaban, 23, a rising mage user in the country and Jay “Crypzu” Villanueva, 25, the captain and veteran tank player. Together, the team swept Cignal Ultra Warriors in three straight games in the best-of-five finals.

The team bagged P500,000 cash prize, while first runner-up Cignal and second runner-up Bren Epro took home P250,000 and P150,000, respectively.

“We are very proud of our PLDT-Smart Omega team for making history as the very first conference champions at the Nationals,” said Oscar A. Reyes, Jr., PLDT-Smart SVP and Consumer Market Development Head. 

“They have worked tirelessly and given their maximum effort toward this momentous achievement, and we couldn’t be any happier to support them.”


Team Omega gave Cignal no quarter even until the very last moment, with a stunning play that saw the champions bring Lord into Cignal’s base through the bottom lane, protecting the giant boss minion well with great teamwork as it took down the enemy inhibitor. This surprise attack sealed the finals at a relatively early 11 minutes into the third game.

The teams will return for Conference 2 of The Nationals: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang in November.

Steadfast support for E-sports

PLDT and Smart, as the Philippines’ telecommunications and digital services leaders, are valuable supporters of the highly competitive local e-sports scene by providing Filipinos with the best gaming experience powered by the fastest fixed and mobile networks in the country, as certified by global leaders in internet testing and analysis Ookla, Tutela, and OpenSignal.

Get the latest e-sports updates by following the official Facebook account of PLDT-Smart Omega (www.facebook.com/PLDTSMARTOMEGA) and the official Twitter and Instagram accounts of PLDT and Smart at @PLDTHome and @LiveSmart.

Miss Universe Philippines 2019 Gazini Ganados crowned Miss PLDT Home

A new reign begins for the Binibining (Bb.) Pilipinas as it comes to a close and six new queens have emerged. Gazini Ganados of Talisay, Cebu won the Miss Universe Philippines 2019 title and was crowned Miss PLDT Home at the much-anticipated Coronation Night held on June 9, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

The Binibining Pilipinas 2019 winners (L-R) 1st runner up Maria Andrea Abesamis, Binibining Pilipinas Globe Leren Mae Bautista, Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental Emma Mary Tiglao, Miss Universe Philippines Gazini Ganados, Binibining Pilipinas International Bea Patricia Magtanong, Binibining Pilipinas Supranational Resham Saeed, and Binibining Pilipinas Grand International Samantha Ashley Lo.





The new Miss Universe Philippines Gazini Ganados received her crown from the reigning Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray together with Bea Patricia Magtanong as Binibining Pilipinas International, Emma Mary Tiglao as Binibining Pilipinas Intercontinental, Resham Saeed as Binibining Pilipinas Supranational, Leren Mae Bautista as Binibining Pilipinas Globe and Samantha Ashley Lo as Binibining Pilipinas Grand International. Maria Andrea Abesamis and Samantha Mae Bernardo were first and second runners-up respectively.



Powered by PH’s digital services leader



Since 2014, PLDT, through its consumer business group PLDT Home, has been an ardent supporter of the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI)’s various causes and events, especially the annual pageant.



“As a long-standing partner of BPCI, we are honoured to support the organization in its continuous efforts to empower world-class Filipinas in their pursuit of their advocacies for the benefit of many Filipinos and represent the Philippines all over the world,” Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Market Development Oscar Enrico Reyes, Jr. said.



This year, PLDT has, once again, played a vital role in the key events leading up to the highly anticipated coronation night. To kick off the activities, the 40 candidates were invited for a courtesy visit to the telco giant’s headquarters where they got a chance to meet with PLDT executives and employees. During the event, the ladies were given a platform to talk about advocacies close to their hearts including women empowerment, mental health, education, sustainable tourism, health and environment, and HIV awareness.



PLDT also supported the traditional grand parade, which was held around Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City. The fiesta-themed event gave fans and pageant aficionados an opportunity to see their favorite binibinis up close, as the ladies showcased the country’s rich cultural heritage in their outfits.



Another highly anticipated pre-pageant event is the annual fashion show which features the candidates in their national costumes. Held at the New Frontier Theatre, this year’s glamorous affair was a showcase of world-class Filipino artistry.



Reyes adds, “PLDT has always been at the forefront of championing outstanding Filipinos in the various fields such as sports, education, arts and entertainment. PLDT Home’s world-class Internet helps them equip their digital lifestyles, pursue their dreams, and ultimately enrich their lives.” He concludes, “We congratulate the new set of these world-class Filipinas and we will continuously support them as they embark on a new journey, this time on a global stage.”



For exclusive post-pageant updates, follow PLDT Home on Facebook (facebook.com/PLDTHome), Twitter (@PLDTHome) and Instagram (@pldthome).

Puerto Galera’s unique marine life merited the intensive survey and exploration made by divers from France and Switzerland in the recent 2nd Objectif Atlantide Underwater Investigation

Puerto Galera’s unique marine life merited the intensive survey and exploration made by divers from France and Switzerland who participated in the recent 2nd Objectif Atlantide Underwater Investigation.

Mounted by the Department of Tourism - Dive Philippines in partnership with the French association Objectif Atlantide, two multiple record holder free divers went head-to-head against scuba divers to solve a mystery by exploring the unique marine life of Puerto Galera.

Puerto Galera’s overwhelming biodiversity makes it an ideal spot for divers to discover the country’s unique beauty. Photo by Jerome Kim

“In the Underwater Investigation, the participants followed clues that brought them underwater to take photos of species found around Puerto Galera. This experience teaches them that not only are there a lot of different species here, but also which kind they are,” said Objectif Atlantide founder Daniel Meouchy.

Team Scubaland’s Pauline Thomas and Aurelie Pineau emerged as this year’s winners, successfully defending their title from the competition’s first edition held in Cabilao, Bohol last year. The scuba-diving tandem bested 10 pairs of divers, including five-time world champion and four-time world record holder Arthur Guérin-Boëri and French national record holder Alice Modolo.

Award-winning French freediver Alice Modolo surveys a wreckage in search of species. Photo by Jerome Kim

“Diving in the Philippines is very interesting because there are many species here. Every time we go into the water and come back to check our pictures, we learn a lot. It’s our second time to win the underwater investigation, so we’ll absolutely do it again! We need to keep our title,” shared Thomas.

Karine Cheurfa and Sophie Comminges of Team Esprit de la Plongée from Switzerland bagged the second spot while Hervé Pages and Martine Bonnevay-Aillaud of Team Têtes Bullées finished third.

The Philippines lies at the heart of the so-called Coral Triangle, home to more than three-fourths of the world’s corals, and more than half of the world’s coral reef fish. With 2,248,400 hectares of coral reefs, 500 species of corals and 2,000 species of fish, the country is part of the most fertile part of the triangle.

At the heart of the Coral Triangle and at the skirts of the Verde Island Passage is Puerto Galera and its rich biological treasures, stunning seascapes, and scores of marine species. The island thus makes for a perfect environment to host 2nd Objectif Atlantide Underwater Investigation underwater exploration.

Freediving world champ Arthur Guérin-Boëri poses for a photo before continuing his critter hunt. Photo by Jerome Kim

Supporting the DoT’s efforts to promote sustainability in dive tourism and raise awareness for reef protection and conservation, the participants spent the week to observe, survey, and photograph the “underwater rainforest” of Puerto Galera.

“Puerto Galera is a feast for the most adventurous spirit; with this event, we hope the French diving community has discovered the wonders of the Philippines’ waters. We will take this great opportunity to showcase the unparalleled beauty of our reefs and call to protect the vibrant biodiversity of our waters to the international community,” said DOT Tourism Development Undersecretary Benito C. Bengzon, Jr.

The 2nd Objectif Atlantide Underwater Investigation is mounted in partnership with Objectif Atlantide, El Galleon Dive Resort and Asia Divers, and is sponsored by Atlantis Dive Resorts and Liveaboards, Pier Uno Dive Resort, Resorts World Manila, and Belmont Hotels and Resorts.
The event is also supported by Plongeur.com, Subaqua Magazine, Chercheurs d'eau, PlongeeOnline.com, Plongee Infos, Plongez Magazine, Paradise-Plongee.com.
 

Enjoy the Huawei Mate 10 for all your video streaming needs with Smart GigaX

New Smart GigaX plans offer double data, free smartphones


When it comes to data, size definitely matters. The new Smart GigaX Plans doubles open access data allocation plus 10GB dedicated to video streaming to go with the latest LTE-capable handsets for free.


Under Giga Plan 2399, you now get the following inclusions: Huawei Mate 10 handset, 10GB of data exclusive to video streaming, unli all-net texts, 60 minutes all-net calls, and 10GB of open access data (doubled from previous 5GB open access allocation).

“We know how much our customers love to stream videos and play games on their smartphones. This is why we are offering the new Smart GigaX Plans that doubles the monthly data from 5GB to 10GB. On top of that they will also get 10GB additional allocation for YouTube, iflix, iWantTV, Fox, and other streaming apps,” said Oscar Reyes, Jr., SVP of Consumer Business Market Development for PLDT-Smart.

He added, “As the trusted digital partner of our customers, we don’t want them to keep holding back from enjoying mobile Internet. GigaX provides them the latest smartphones, incredible data allowance, and the country’s fastest LTE.”


Incidentally, Smart topped OpenSignal’s recent report on fastest LTE in the country.



Binge-watch on-the-go


The 10GB video streaming allocation is also part of other GigaX Plans, namely Samsung Galaxy J2 Pro Plan 799 (includes 2.5GB x 2 = 5GB open access data on top of the 10GB for video streaming plus 150 Unli all-net texts and 20 minutes of all-net calls) and Oppo F5 Plan 1299 (includes 4.5GB x 2= 9GB open access data on top of the 10GB for video streaming plus Unli all-net texts and 50 minutes of all-net calls).


Like the Huawei Mate Plan 2399, both the J2 Pro and Oppo F5 smartphones are free under the mentioned postpaid plans.


So what can you do with 10GB dedicated to streaming? Typically, an hour of standard streaming consumes about 1GB. So 10GB is just about an entire season of about 12 or 13 episodes assuming each runs about 40 to 45 minutes. The usual movie has a running time of less than two hours so you have monthly film streaming allocation for about six or seven movies.


Apart from the portion dedicated to streaming, you still have another 10GB (open access) when you get the Huawei Mate 10 Plan 2399.  The fact that this particular handset sports a 5.9” full display screen adds to the overall entertainment experience.


For more about Smart GigaX Plans, follow Smart’s official Instagram (@livesmart), Twitter (@livesmart) and Facebook (Smart Communications, Inc.) accounts or visit www.smart.com.ph.

Green Footprints Movement: Make this planet a better and clean place for our future generations to come

In this year's age and time with the climate change, global warming, extinction of endangered species, depletion of ozone layer, increase in air pollution are few of the effects from which our environment is suffering.  

How can we make this planet a better and clean place for our future generations to come? There are ways to conserve energy and it all starts with you, be the change that you can be and Mother Nature will thank you for it along with your grandchildren and future generations to come.

A simple task such as turning off the lights when not in used, will make a lot of difference, not to mention your parents will thank you for it.

In line with its thrust to drive the conversation about climate change, leading airconditioning and refrigeration solutions provider Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC),through its subsidiary Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC),has launched the Green Footprints Movement, its advocacy that seeks to galvanize the general public into action towards reducing their environment footprint.

“As the most encompassing environmental issue facing us today, climate change must be everyone’s agenda” said CIC Chief Executive Officer Raul Joseph Concepcion.“For CIC, we aim to strengthen our commitment to a sustainable future by driving greater awareness and understanding of climate change and global warming among consumers and other stakeholders, and enabling access to green choices that will enable consumers to reduce their environmental footprint.”

CCAC’s Green Footprints Movement serves as a clarion call to the public to become green advocates.

“We want the public to be able to connect their everyday actions and decisions with its environmental impact,” shared Harold Pernikar, Jr., CCAC Director and Head of the Consumer Solutions Group.  “This consciousness, we believe, will lead them to make environmental impact an important consideration and value in everything they do or use.”  

Central to the Green Footprints Movement is creating awareness through consumer education, with the campaign focused on making information on environmental impact reduction available to a wider audience.

“Our goal is to provide the public with the knowledge of how they can make small, practical changes that will have significant effect on their own footprints, such as the responsible use of electricity and even making more sensible selections when it comes to the products they use in their homes,” said Pernikar.

The Green Footprints Movement is a testament to CIC’s long-standing commitment to the environment, having led its industry in exercising responsible stewardship by employing best green practices and conducting their operations in a manner that safeguards the environment.

“Environmental health and safety is and has always been a key core value of CIC, and this is evident in the way we manage our business,” stated Concepcion, who noted how the company has leveraged on technology to create green facilities.“A crucial first step is cultivating a culture of sustainability within the company itself, which is why we have always been mindful of our own environmental impact, looking at our own performance in terms of recycling, water and waste consumption, and setting goals to reduce our footprint year after year.” 

Concepcion Industrial Corp., through its subsidiary Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Co. (CCAC), takes its commitment to the environment a stepfurther by launching the Green Footprints Movement,an advocacy campaign that seeks to galvanize the general public into action towards reducing their environment footprint. Event attendees include (from left to right)Manila Fashion Observer blogger Christine Dychiao;Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Assistant Director Dr. Eva S. Ocfemia;celebrity host and World Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines National Ambassador Marc Nelson; Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC)Chief Executive OfficerRaul Joseph A. Concepcion,  Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC) Executive Vice President for Business Development Rafael C. Hechanova, Jr., and Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company (CCAC) Director and Head of Consumer Solutions Group Harold Pernikar, Jr.




CCAC also recognizes that the public must have greater access to environment-friendly products so that they can make greener choices.It was the first Philippine manufacturer to convert its refrigerators to use environment-friendly refrigerants back in 1995, and is once again leading the industry for its air conditioning solutions.

“Ninety-six percent of our air conditioning products have already been converted to using environmentally responsive refrigerants, and we expect to make a 100% product conversion within the year,” said Pernikar, who also shared that the switch is being made ahead of the global deadlines set by the Montreal Protocol, which established a timeline for the eventual elimination of ozone-depleting substances. 

“Part of the private sector’s responsibility goes beyond compliance with standards and regulations -- it’s in rising to the challenge of offering practical, green products through constant innovation and investment,” Pernikar added.

By enabling the public to become more aware that each and every action they make today can have lasting effects on the planet’s future, CIC and CCAC aspire to empower the public to make smarter and greener choices. “As we enjoin people to commit to reducing their collective environmental footprint through the Green Footprints Movement,” said Concepcion,"we believe we can create a significant impact towards creating a better, safer environment for the next generations.”#

Philam Vitality Helps People LIve Healthier Lives

Today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle has exposed many of us—from young adults to professionals alike—to many stressors that have a huge negative impact on our health. Heavy traffic on the daily commute, long work hours, a sedentary lifestyle, the proliferation of processed and fast food choices, stress-induced drinking and smoking—all these contribute to higher health risks that can affect our family’s quality of life.

Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley and CMO Jimmy Javier welcome media guests to the Philam Life Vitality launch

According to the UK-based Oxford Health Alliance, around 60% of deaths worldwide are caused by four “epidemic chronic diseases: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and some cancers.” In order to prevent premature death and incapacity due to these diseases, we must be able to address three major risk factors: tobacco consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity.

With these realities in mind, Philam Life, the Philippines’ premier life insurance company, has introduced Philam Vitality, the first in the market, science-backed wellness programme that rewards its members for getting healthy. As a global brand, Vitality is present in several countries with millions of members and makes use of incentives to encourage members to adopt and sustain healthy behaviors. By bringing Vitality to the Philippines through the Philam Vitality program, Philam Life pioneers giving real focus on healthy living.

Philam Life CEO Axel Bromley introduces Vitality, the first health and wellness program of its kind in the Philippines

“People normally associate life insurance with protection and savings products to prepare them for life's uncertainties. At Philam Life, we are committed to take it further by helping people live longer and healthier lives so that they could spend more time with the people who matter to them most,” shares Axel Bromley, CEO of Philam Life.  “Philam Vitality will empower more and more Filipinos with the information and the tools to know and improve their health, and to enjoy longer and fuller lives.”  

Philam Vitality comes with three simple components to help people live healthier lives:

1) Know your health. With Philam Vitality Health Review, users will be able to take an online assessment through their desktops, laptops, tablets, or smartphones, and see if their Philam Vitality Age matches their actual age.

Members can also assess their current state of health through partners such as Makati Medical Center (for check-ups and vaccinations), Hi-Precision Diagnostics (for laboratory procedures such as blood tests and X-rays), and GAOC (Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center) for dental care.

“These assessments help you find out which parts of your over-all health are on track and which areas you can improve. It’s very empowering to know your health status so that you can take control of all the facets of your life,” says Jaime Jose D. Javier, Jr., Philam Life Chief Marketing Officer.

2) Improve your health. With Philam Vitality, members can achieve better health for less, at partners such as Gold’s Gym for gym memberships; Toby’s Sports, Garmin, and Polar for fitness gear and other devices; and Makati Medical Center for smoking cessation program.
Members start with Vitality status of Bronze and move their way up to Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels as they earn points for every assessment test and activity done within the program.

“The more points you earn, the higher Vitality status you achieve, and the greater your rewards,” explains Mr. Javier. “We’ll take care of tracking your points through our integrated systems so that all you’ll need to think of is to get better and fitter each day.”

3) Enjoy the rewards. While better health is already a reward in itself, Philam Vitality offers members more opportunities to enjoy precious time with their family and loved ones, through discounts on tickets to SM Cinemas and Enchanted Kingdom, and on bookings at Marriott and Seda Hotels.

Vitality members also earn discounts on premiums of selected insurance plans. By purchasing a Philam Vitality Series insurance plan from Philam Life or BPI-Philam, members can get upfront discounts on first year premiums and continue to enjoy discounts in succeeding years by improving their health.

Philam Life CMO Jimmy Javier and CEO Axel Bromley introduce the Vitality Program, which motivates Filipinos to live better, healthier lives

“Philam Vitality is unprecedented in the Philippines. We are grateful to have our esteemed partners on board as we encourage members to take charge of their health. Ultimately, a full life should be healthy, fun, and rewarding, and we want to be part of that process.” says Mr. Bromley.

To know more on how you can live a healthier lifestyle, visit philamvitality.com, email ask@philamvitality.com, or call 528-2000.

Canadian Dignitaries Get a Taste of Home in Manila

A TASTE OF CANADA IN MANILA. Filipino-Canadian Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr. (left) and Canada’s Minister for International Trade, Ed Fast (right), are all set to enjoy Canada’s best burgers and milkshakes at Triple O’s SM Megamall.  

For any Filipino who has ever spent some time in Canada, Triple O’s by White Spot will surely be a familiar name. The good news is that Triple O’s claim of having the “sauciest, juiciest, tastiest, bestest burgers around” has already been validated in the Philippines as well, courtesy of jam-packed branches in SM Megamall, SM Aura, and the UP Town Center Mall. For those who have a hankering for something other than a fantastic burger, Triple O’s also provides a selection of other mains, such as chicken, pasta, and fish dishes. Another staple that has achieved a cult-like following are the hand-scooped Triple O’s milkshakes made with 100% premium ice cream.


Recently, the Triple O’s branch in SM Megamall welcomed some very special guests for a surprise lunch. Canada’s Minister for International Trade, the Hon. Ed Fast, joined the first Filipino-Canadian Senator, Tobias Enverga, Jr., and Canadian Ambassador Neil Reeder for a taste of home in Manila. The dignitaries made time in their busy schedules to enjoy Canada’s best-loved burgers and milkshakes, while delighting both the staff and walk-in diners with trivia and other tidbits about the brand.


To find out what the hype is about, visit your nearest Triple-O’s outlet, log on to www.tripleos.com.ph, or join the conversation via @tripleosPH on Twitter and Facebook []

Philam Life newly-elected CEO J. Axel Bromley made a courtesy visit to Insurance Comm.Atty Emmanuel Dooc

Insurance Commissioner Atty. Emmanuel Dooc (center) shakes the hand of newly-elected Philam Life CEO J. Axel Bromley (right) who made a courtesy call together with former Philam Life CEO Estelito Madrid, Jr. (left).


Mr. Bromley brings rich global experience to the role, after spending over 20 years of working in Eastern Europe, South and Central America, the Middle East and the Indian Sub-Continent. He also has more than 13 years of experience in the insurance industry, previously as General Manager/Country Manager in Nepal, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Ukraine.


Prior to the election, Mr. Bromley was Director of Strategic Initiatives at AIA Group, Philam Life’s parent company, which is the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group with presence in 18 markets in Asia-Pacific.

Pru Life UK supports Manny Pacquiao by bringing live coverage of the ‘Fight of the Century’

 As the nation prepares for the ‘Fight of the Century’ between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr., life insurance giant Pru Life UK is saluting every Filipino fighter by bringing the world title fight live to many who have never before had such an opportunity, particularly those who are still recovering from typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan).

Pru Life UK is working with 10 communities in Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Batangas, Quezon, Albay, Aklan, and Northern Samar, as well as Bantayan Island in Cebu to bring live coverage of the match on May 3rd. On Bantayan Island, the match will be aired in three municipalities of Santa Fe, Madridejos, and Bantayan. The fight is to be aired live for Filipinos in 10 communities across the country

Through this initiative, Pru Life UK is continuing its long-term commitment to its rebuilding and recovery efforts in the central Philippines following super typhoon Yolanda in November 2013. On Bantayan Island, Pru Life UK and its charitable arm Prudence Foundation has helped rebuild houses and shelters and has provided new motorized fishing boats and pedicabs with nearly 250 staff and agent volunteers from 10 countries across Asia and the United Kingdom.

“As the country prepares for the ‘Fight of the Century’, we want to lift the spirits of those fighting to recover from typhoon Yolanda. We are excited about the fight, but more than that, we are inspired by every Filipino fighter from all walks of life. We saw the opportunity to bring the fight to those who do not have access to it, and we are overjoyed to be able to connect them to the rest of the world as we cheer on the ‘People’s Champ’,” said Antonio Manuel de Rosas, President and CEO of Pru Life UK.

“Seeing the Cebuanos in Bantayan Island get back on their feet has been a truly a remarkable experience for our staff and volunteers. Helping them rebuild their homes is just the first step. We hope that watching this fight live gives them the opportunity to set aside their daily struggles as they join in this national celebration,” he continued.

A TV commercial about this initiative was launched Tueday, April 28, which was shot on location in Bantayan Island as preparations for the live broadcast of the fight were being made. Pru Life UK is also providing the iconic red headbands shown in the commercial to communities across the Philippines to unite them in preparation for the fight.

The TV commercial will be aired on television, digital and social media, with a hashtag #ForEveryPinoyFighter

“How can we watch the fight if we don’t have electricity?” asked Santa Fe Mayor Jose Esgana. “We are delighted that Pru Life UK is bringing the fight to our island. Everyone is excited about the match, and we support Manny all the way to the end.”

Samsung Electronics and Yuchengco Museum partner up for Relative Realities Digital Art Experience

Samsung Electronics Philippines and Yuchengco Museum
Present Relative Realities Digital Art Experience

Samsung Digital Gallery and Yuchengco Museum brings you a month-long digital art exhibit Relative Realities: Creating New Dimensions of Art through Technology, and is supported by a mobile app FACETS. It showcases the artworks of printmaker Ambie Abaño, painter Ernest Concepcion, painter Jason Montinola, sculptor Leeroy New, visual artist Arturo Sanchez, Jr., and multimedia and performance artist Josephine Turalba. They were  presented to the media last August 7, 2014 together with their art pieces.

 Relative Realities is powered by Samsung’s Ultra High Definition Smart TVs and tablets,  which uses augmented reality technology to create new museum experiences. Relative Realities is on view at Yuchengco Museum from August 7 to September 8, 2014.

Relative Realities is a collaboration between one of the world’s most recognized technology brands and one of the country’s most trailblazing museums. The exhibit showcases the artworks of six especially invited Filipino artists from a wide range of creative practices:

The exhibit promises to be exciting and novel for today’s young generation, which the museum hopes to further attract through supporting youth programs and tours on digital art. Relative Realities goes beyond the traditional museum experience of simply presenting art on a pedestal or wall.

 By scanning an artwork with an Android smartphone or tablet, museumgoers can experience the works they see in a whole new light. The exhibit is supported by a mobile app called FACETS, which presents to visitors a different side to the artwork, whether it’s information about the work and the artist or even 3D graphics, video, animation, or sound. “We want to break the practice where the museum’s curatorial direction of an exhibition collection sets the pace for the appreciation and understanding of art. Would not art be best understood in the pureness of subjectivity—where the artist presents and the viewers formulate their own understanding and experience of the artwork?” shares Jeannie Javelosa, curator of Yuchengco Museum.

FACETS mobile app
The exhibit is supplemented by the Futuristic Art Creations Enabled by TVs and Smart devices (FACETS) app, which is especially developed by Samsung Electronics Philippines. The mobile application features not only the artworks in Relative Realities, but also select paintings on view at the Yuchengco Museum’s Masters Gallery. Through the app, guests can learn about the museum’s master works, their styles, the meaning of their works, and their place in the development of Philippine art.
FACETS is available on Android smartphones and tablets through the Google Play Store: http://bit.ly/FACETS

Samsung Digital Gallery

After the month-long exhibit, the artworks highlighted in Relative Realities and select pieces from the Yuchengco Museum Collection will be incorporated into the new Samsung Digital Gallery at the museum’s third floor. The space will offer visitors an opportunity to create new human experiences where they can interact and learn more about the artworks they see at the museum. The Samsung Digital Gallery is due to open to the public in September 2014.
Relative Realities: Creating New Dimensions of Art through Technology is on view at Yuchengco Museum from August 7 to September 8, 2014. The museum is located at RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala and Sen. Gil J. Puyat Avenues, Makati. Museum hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (632) 889-1234 or visit www.yuchengcomuseum.org.