Tips for the Fresh Grads: How to maximize payday by buying the best products at the best prices and checking for discounts and rewards on Shopee

Congratulations on finally taking your first steps towards a thriving career! Adulting can feel nerve-racking and overwhelming, but as long as you’re willing to learn, you’ll do just fine.

 

Now that you’re earning money for the first time, one of the first things you need to master is handling your finances. When you’re earning regularly, it can be incredibly tempting to overspend. But there’s a way to balance treating yourself and spending your money wisely. 

Start following the 50/30/20 budgeting framework with your very first paycheck: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings.

 

Another thing: you’ll need to invest in work must-haves, but make sure to maximize your sweldo by buying the best products at the best prices and checking for discounts and rewards on Shopee. 

 

For all you fresh grads, here’s a quick survival guide for your first job:

 

 

 

1. Don’t forget to protect your eyes from blue light 
   
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You’ll be spending hours on end staring at the computer screen, so make sure to protect your eyes. Aside from following the 20-20-20 rule, use MetroSunnies Caesar Specs to shield your peepers from the harmful effects of blue light. 

 

 

 

2. Save money on makeup by going for a multitasking product 

 

 

Look instantly put-together for all meetings with GRWM Cosmetics Lid, Cheek, & Lip Tint, a multitasking makeup must-have. Use your fingers to pat on this velvety-matte tint, which comes in a universally flattering coral shade, on to your eyelids, cheeks, and lips. 

 

 

 

3. Use a high-quality bag that can withstand long commutes and heavy laptops

 

 

Carry all your valuables in this sleek Delsey Laumiere Satch. With its 3D padded compartment, TSA combination padlock, and 5-year worldwide guarantee, it’s definitely an investment that’ll last you for years to come. 

 

 

 

4. Make a good first impression with a classic watch
5. 

 

Every young professional needs a staple timepiece. Go for a classic one, such as Casio Leather Strap Watch. It’ll lend all your outfits a sophisticated touch—and more importantly, help you stay on top of deadlines and meetings! 

 

 

 

5. Never underestimate the effect of proper lighting on productivity
6. 

 

Working late? Illuminate your workspace with Philips Geo Taco. It features an anti-sliding rubber under the clamp, a silent gooseneck for a quiet and smooth light redirection experience, three dimming levels, and a built-in lithium battery which can last up to 15 hours.

 

 

 

6. Keep it professional on casual Fridays
7. 

 

Ready for casual Fridays? Slip into this soft, comfy cotton INSPI Boat Neck Shirt, which comes in several colors. Simply throw a blazer on top if you’ve also got a meeting or two lined up for the day.

 

If you’re looking for new office supplies, or maybe need to pay some bills now that you’re finally adulting, don’t forget to check out Shopee every akinse to enjoy exclusive deals! At 7.15 Mega Payday Sale, get free shipping with no minimum spend, ₱15 Deals, and up to 35% cashback on Bills Payment. To discover more deals, visit https://shopee.ph/m/payday-sale.

 

Top up your ShopeePay wallet through your debit card and other convenient channels to enjoy more exclusive deals such as daily free shipping vouchers, 15% cashback, ShopeePay ₱1 Deals, and ₱10 worth of data for only ₱1. You can also get 20% cashback when you Scan to Pay with ShopeePay for your cash-on-delivery (COD) orders with your ShopeeXpress rider. 

 

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

 

Concentrix held the biggest virtual Family Day event of the year through a Facebook live concert

Concentrix Corporation , a leading global provider of customer experience (CX) solutions and technology, and the largest private employer in the Philippines, held the biggest virtual Family Day event of the year through a Facebook live concert.

Open to the public, the Concentrix Family Day Facebook concert last July 4 saw 267,700 viewers which was a combination of staff, family members and social media followers of the company nationwide. Called #DifferentTogether Family Day Finale, it was a culmination of month-long activities with Php 10 Million worth of prizes given away to over 6,000 of the company’s staff and their loved ones.

The star-studded finale was hosted by celebrity Toni Gonzaga, with guest performances from Billy Joe Crawford, KZ Tandingan, Sam Concepcion, and Filipino dance troupe winner of Asia’s Got Talent Season 1, El Gamma Penumbra. There was also a children’s show, live online games, grand finals of Concentrix Family’s Got Talent where the winning family accumulated Php 55,000 from elimination to championship prizes, and a live digital raffle of 25 home showcases worth Php 40,000 each.

According to Concentrix SVP and Philippines Country Leader Amit Jagga, “Even if it is not the traditional way we used to celebrate our Annual Family Day, we are very proud to host this virtually for the whole Filipino community, to show who we are and what we value as an organization, and how we appreciate and reward our team. The pandemic does not stop us from growing and giving back – we find different ways to show care for our staff and their loved ones. Hence we made sure Family Day had something in it for everyone and reward thousands of participants, so we held multiple activities for a month, culminating in this concert. Family Day is important to us, and we want it to be something our people will always remember and be proud of.”

Concentrix also recently announced that it has broken records for being the only organization hailed as Best Company, Best Employer, Best BPO Contact Center, and Best Foreign-owned Company in the Philippine ICT Awards for 2 years in a row. It also won the award for Outstanding Use of ICT Services to Fight COVID-19, for its investments on staff health and safety and its support for other employment sectors. 

This year’s Big Bad Wolf Books Sale is extended until July 12!

This year’s Big Bad Wolf Books Sale was different than previous editions, but the response was incredible as always. More than 60,000 titles were offered at discounts of up to 99% in the first Big Bad Wolf Books Online Sale in the Philippines. Due to the huge turnout, the sale has been extended until July 12, 2021.

Choosing which books to add to your cart can be a daunting task, especially with the thousands of options available. To help you out, here’s a list of the top 10 best-selling books from this year’s sale:

 

The Atlas of Fairy Tales by Claudia Bordin – PHP 350 only!

Category: Picture and reading book for kids

 

This collection of incredible adventures of all your favorite fairy tales and children’s classics is told through a series of stunning illustrations that young readers will definitely enjoy.

 

Superheroes Without Capes by Isabella Grott – PHP 350 only!

Category: Picture reference book for kids

 

This picture book features the stories of 20 men and women who use their skills and talents to make the world a better place – because not all superheroes wear caps.

 

Junior Dictionary & Thesaurus by Cindy Leaney – PHP 390 only!

Category: Reference book

 

Every page of this dictionary and thesaurus for young readers is packed with colorful illustrations and pictures to help them improve their spelling, expand their vocabulary, and polish their grammar skills!

 

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan – PHP 230 only!

Category: Asian Literature, Romance

 

This acclaimed 2013 New York Times bestseller follows the story of Rachel Chu, as she spends the summer in Singapore with her boyfriend Nicholas Young and his family. Crazy Rich Asians is the first novel in a series from Kevin Kwan.

 

A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle – PHP 230 only!

Category: Young Adult Fiction

 

This special, movie tie-in edition of the upcoming major motion picture features the complete, unabridged original text of the 1962 novel. Winner of the 1963 Newbery Medal, A Wrinkle in Time is the first book in Madeleine L’Engle’s classic Time Quintet.

 

Trickery by Roald Dahl – PHP 190 only!

Category: Contemporary Fiction

 

In this collection of short stories, Roald Dahl takes readers on a journey into ten different stories that reveal the dark, twisted deceptions that humans are capable of.

 

Keep It Simple by Joe Calloway – PHP 190 only!

Category: Business and self-help

 

With over 30 years of experience as a consultant and coach to high performing companies and individuals, Joe Calloway is an expert in how to focus and simplify. By getting clear on what really matters most, you can streamline your life, reduce stress, and achieve the personal and business results you desire.

 

Success Affirmations: 52 Weeks For Living A Passionate And Purposeful Life by Jack Canfield – PHP 230 only!

Category: Business and self-help

 

Jack Canfield is a master motivator, world-renowned teacher, and best-selling author of “The Success Principles.” In his latest book, Success Affirmations, he helps readers break through to new levels of passion, purpose, and prosperity with 52 affirmations and proven wisdom.

 

Unlimited Power by Anthony Robbins – PHP 230 only!

Category: Business and self-help

 

Unlimited Power from Anthony Robbins is a revolutionary fitness book for the mind. It is the ultimate guide to peak performance in the age of success and shows how you can achieve an extraordinary life.

 

The Courage To Be Happy: True Contentment Is Within Your Power by Ichiro Kishimi – PHP 230 only!

Category: Business and self-help

 

In The Courage To Be Happy, Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga once again share their wisdom into simple yet profound advice to show on how to find true happiness.

 

More promos await Big Bad Wolf Books fans at the extended Sale

 

The Big Bad Wolf Books Online Sale is extended through Monday, July 12, 2021. In addition to a fresh restock of books, the sale also features a number of new limited-time promotions to look forward to at the official website [ph.bbwbooks.com], such as:

 

Two thematic ‘Flash Sales’ during which further discounts will be offered for a few hours only!

 

 

TGIF – THANK GOODNESS IT’S FLASH SALE

 

Date: 9th July 2021 – 10th July 2021

 

Time: 8PM – 8AM

 

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER FLASH SALE

 

Date: 10th July 2021 – 11th July 2021

 

Time: 8PM – 8AM

 

Extra 25% off discount on movie and music book titles.

Special offer of extra 20% off on graphic novels.

Big Bad Wolf Books is proud to partner with the Bureau of Copyright and Related Rights of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) for the Big Bad Wolf Online Book Sale Philippines 2021 in a joint effort to continue to promote and inculcate a love for reading. Additional partners of the sale include Dragonpay and eGHL, ensuring a smooth online payment process for everyone, and ABSCBN News, the official media partner of Big Bad Wolf Books.

 

For more information about BIG BAD WOLF Books, please visit:

 

Website: https://bigbadwolfbooks.com/.

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bbwbooksphilippines.

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bbwbooksph/.

 

Hashtags: #BigBadWolfBooks #TheBiggestOnlineBookSale #BBWPHOnlineSale

 

Crispylicious, juicylicious Chickenjoy now comes in a 4-pc Family Box at a special introductory price of P249!

Now that many families spend more time at home and finances are tighter than before, family promos and deals are like music to the ears. With family deals, you get your value-for-money times four—plus more bonding opportunities together!

 

You can find good deals left and right, but here are some which are tailor-fit to surely give you and your family a great time!

Gadget and accessory bundles

It’s no secret that gadgets have brought efficiency, convenience, and even entertainment to our lives. This is why tech brands occasionally release deals which bundle the main device like a smartphone with other accessories like headphones, speakers, smartwatches, and more. Watch out for these offers because for the price of one device, you get more items which your family can use as well! 

 

Music and entertainment subscriptions

Who doesn’t love music and entertainment? With endless music, movie, and TV show streaming services present in the digital universe, you can definitely find packages which are ideal for you and your family. A subscription would normally allow more or less four gadgets in the household, so you and your family can each enjoy your favorite content simultaneously in your own devices!

 

Staycation promos

As some areas of the country ease quarantine restrictions, hotels and resorts are starting to reopen with the necessary precautions and bounce back with attractive room rates and perks. Now might be a good time to treat yourself and your loved ones to a relaxing staycation while complying with the standard safety protocols.

 

Insurance packages

Planning for the future is always a good idea, and insurance companies offer family packages which cater to you and your family’s specific goals, whether it’s for health, education, or finances. These packages are worth a look if they can help secure those goals.

Photo credit: @startermama (IG) 

 

4-pc Chickenjoy Family Box

The list won’t be complete without food, and the country’s #1 fast food chain Jollibee has got you and your family covered. Its world-renowned crispylicious, juicylicious Chickenjoy now comes in a 4-pc Family Box at a special introductory price of P249, more affordable and a great centerpiece for the dining table! It can also come with two servings of sweet-sarap Jolly Spaghetti, two large Jolly Crispy Fries, two beefy-saucy Burger Steak, or three langhap-sarap Yumburger each also at a special introductory price of P330.

 

“Family time is so special, which is why there are many deals out there aimed to bring out and even level up those bonding moments. But for us, there is nothing quite like gathering around and enjoying the Chickenjoy’s crispy well-seasoned skin, juicy and tender meat, and distinctly flavorful gravy together,” Jollibee Marketing AVP for Bestsellers Cathleen Capati said. “We hope that our affordable Family Box will allow more families to enjoy our best-selling product and will become part of their valuable family time.”

 

Have the 4pc-Chickenjoy Family Box safely delivered to your home via the Jollibee Delivery App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and foodpanda! Also available in Drive-Thru and Take Out.

 

For more info and updates on Jollibee products, like Jollibee Philippines on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Studios on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

 

The vivo V21 is Maine Mendoza’s smartphone choice for the on-the-go digital lifestyle she has

For many students and workers, smartphones have been a vital extension of their remote work setup. It enables them to have the mobility they need as they cater to their day-to-day tasks. But while it offers the benefit of flexibility, it’s pretty common that users experience lags and crashes on their smartphones — especially when they run multiple apps. 

 

Living an on-the-go digital lifestyle means relying on a device that performs at par with one’s level of productivity. This is why people choose a smartphone that is packed with all the features that can help one power through their workday.

The vivo V21 is Maine Mendoza’s smartphone choice for the on-the-go digital lifestyle she has

 

One of the world’s leading smartphone manufacturers, vivo, introduces the V21 series which incorporates virtual RAM. RAM or Random Access Memory serves as data storage for the apps running on your phone. The vivo V21 series has a built-in 8GB RAM, but to allow for better productivity for its users, it also integrates a virtual 3GB RAM. This allows the device to “borrow” an extra 3GB from its internal storage when the 8GB is already used up by multiple apps. Think of the 8GB RAM as your bag, and the virtual 3GB as its compartments — it gives you more space to set things in without the need for another suitcase.

 

This extended RAM feature in the V21 series makes the smartphone work with a total memory of 11GB. So, even if you use multiple apps for work, it paves the way for a smooth and lag-free user experience. No need to worry about your device crashing when you’re working on a live doc while also tuned in on a virtual meeting.

 

While the vivo V21 series backs up productivity, it also has the best features for all the fun things one can do on a smartphone. Its front camera comes with an impressive 44MP display and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) feature, so users can have the best well-lit selfies even if they shoot at night time. The rear camera, on the other hand, supports a 64MP resolution with an Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) feature. This technology minimizes unnecessary motion so photos and videos are captured in a steady frame. Surely, with these stunning camera features in the vivo V21, users can take fun breaks between work and shoot ‘Gram-worthy snaps every time.

 

New Selfie Portrait Master Maine Mendoza shows that beyond work, the vivo V21 caters to your fun break moments.

 

Another factor that people can take pride in this flagship series is its battery’s ability to last for a long time. With a 4000mAh battery and 33W FlashCharge properties, they can perform their work throughout the whole day with just a single full charge.

 

These exciting features in the vivo V21 are all within the phone’s 7.29mm ultra-slim design. Its artistic look and feather-light weight can make a user feel that they got power and grip as they tend to their work tasks.

 

The vivo V21 is available in all vivo kiosks and stores, as well as the brand’s official Lazada and Shopee pages. It starts at an SRP of PHP 16,999. To know more about the V21 series, follow vivo’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages.

 

Seth Dungca’s “Pangako” breaks world record for the most music videos made for a song

Filipino singer-composer Seth Dungca’s single “Pangako” recently spawned a whopping total of 64 music videos, handily surpassing the standing Guinness World Record for Most Music Videos Made for One Song. 

 

The official world record is currently held by British EDM duo Coldcut for their 1998 song “Timber,” which has a total of five different music videos. Dungca’s “Pangako” easily tops that record by 59 more videos. 

 

“Pangako” generated a plethora of music videos when Dungca’s record label Insight Music launched a film competition in partnership with UFC to crown the official music video for the song. As of July 8, 64 people have submitted official entries, which may all be viewed for free on the YouTube Insight 360.

While YouTube provides proof of the song’s record-breaking achievement, Dungca and Insight Music still need to get official verification from Guinness World Records. Insight Music President and Chief Creative Director Chris Cahilig discloses that the label is currently in the process of applying for the record, but he is confident that they’ve broken the 23-year-old feat.

“It’s clear that we beat the current record by a landslide. Obviously, 64 is decidedly greater than 5,” says Cahilig. “Every single one of these entries is also officially published on our YouTube channel. And they’re all unique, so the proof is right there.”

The process of world record validation can take up to 12 weeks, shortened by the organization’s Priority Application scheme that may take only five days.

“We hope to get this verified as soon as possible,” adds Cahilig, “because as far as we’re concerned, Seth and Pangako have earned it.” 

 

As for the artist himself, Dungca thinks earning a Guinness World Record would be a once-in-a-lifetime achievement that he earnestly hopes will push through.

 

“I would never say no to having something as prestigious as a Guinness World Record,” says Dungca, “and to receive it because of all these uniquely beautiful music videos for my song fills me with an infinite amount of gratitude.”

 

Dungca says more than just the bragging rights of being a world record owner, seeing all the creativity from the 64 videos has made Pangako his proudest work yet.

 

“It’s crazy how much effort people put into making these videos. It shows that something about my song compelled them to direct these personal, moving, sometimes wacky music videos,” says Dungca. “The world record is really just a bonus. It’s already a huge win for me just seeing how music and film can come together to express real human beauty. I’m happy we got to do that with Pangako.”

 

Dungca believes that choosing from the submitted music videos poses a tough challenge for the selection team. “I’ve seen all 64,” says Dungca, “and let me tell you, the judges are in for a frustrating time. Each video strikes a chord in the viewer’s heart in a uniquely artistic way.”

 

Insight Music recently announced the Top 20 music videos that will compete for the grand prize of 50,000 pesos and the distinction of being Pangako’s official music video. The label is set to announce the winner along with the People’s Choice Award for most YouTube views on July 30.

Huawei Releases 2020 Sustainability Report Tech for Good: Sustainable Social Development with ICT

Huawei today released its 2020 Sustainability Report. The company has been publishing this annual report for 13 consecutive years. The 2020 report explains the major progress that Huawei has made over the past year in its four strategies for sustainability: digital inclusion, security and trustworthiness, environmental protection, and a healthy and harmonious ecosystem.

TECH4ALL digital inclusion initiative: Leaving no one behind in the digital world

The COVID-19 pandemic has strained global education and healthcare systems in a way that has never been seen before. The company has been using its innovative ICT solutions to provide people across different regions with equal access to quality education and healthcare resources, and playing its part in the fight against the pandemic.

In 2020, Huawei rolled out its Skills on Wheels and Connecting Schools programs in over 200 schools around the world, benefiting more than 60,000 people. Huawei also used ICT solutions to assist the pandemic response in the communities where it operates and provided technical assistance to nearly 90 countries, doing its best to support local communities in this time of great need.

As part of its efforts to provide universal access to digital technologies and applications, Huawei provides 15 accessibility functions on its smartphones. Every month, about 10 million people use these functions that allow them to better enjoy a smart lifestyle.

In 2020, Huawei helped 22 protected areas in 18 countries manage natural resources and protect biodiversity more efficiently using its digital technologies. Huawei also launched the RuralStar Pro solution, which provides voice and mobile broadband services for sparsely populated remote villages. Its RuralStar solutions now provide network coverage for more than 50 million people in remote communities. 

Staying people-centric: Building secure, trustworthy, and high-quality products, solutions, and services

"We believe that technology should be people-centric," said Tao Jingwen, a board member and Chairman of the CSD Committee of Huawei, in the report. "Technology should serve people in a manner that fully respects their rights by guaranteeing informed choice and consent."

Huawei treats cyber security and privacy protection as its top priorities. In 2020, Huawei released the Software Process Trustworthiness Capability Framework and Assessment Criteria, establishing a complete set of trustworthy coding production mechanisms. As of the end of 2020, Huawei had been granted 2,963 patents relating to cyber security and privacy protection around the world. Last year, the company signed data processing agreements with more than 5,000 suppliers and performed extensive due diligence to ensure compliance.

Despite the pandemic and being on the Entity List, Huawei continued to ensure the smooth communications of more than three billion people worldwide and support network stability during more than 200 disasters and major incidents. 

Tech for a better planet: Powering green and sustainable development with technology

"An intelligent world should be a green world," said Liang Hua, Chairman of Huawei, in the report. "Advances in technology can help us better understand and protect nature, mitigating the impact of human activity on the planet. We believe that technology can work in harmony with nature and help make this world a better place."

As part of its efforts to create a greener and more sustainable digital world, Huawei focuses on cutting carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and contributing to a circular economy. In 2020, Huawei's CO₂ emissions per million RMB of sales revenue showed a 33.2% reduction compared to the base year (2012), beating the target (30%) the company set in 2016.

In 2020, the global environmental non-profit CDP scored more than 5,800 companies for their efforts to tackle climate change, and Huawei was one of the few companies that were recognized with a prestigious 'A' score for its actions to cut emissions, mitigate climate risks and develop the low-carbon economy.

To promote renewable energy, Huawei has deployed its digital power solutions in more than 170 countries and regions, serving one third of the world's population. To date, these solutions have generated 325 billion kWh of electricity from renewable sources and saved 10 billion kWh of electricity. These efforts have resulted in a reduction of 160 million tons in CO₂ emissions.

The company is also using more eco-friendly materials, designing its products for greater longevity, using more sustainable packaging, and reducing waste. Combined, these actions will help promote a circular economy.

Tech for good: Continuing to create social value and driving progress towards the UN SDGs

In addition to creating more business value for its customers, Huawei recognizes the importance of creating social value for all stakeholders and advancing progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Huawei cares about its employees and puts their safety first. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company took a number of steps to ensure the health and safety of employees and help suppliers and contractors safely resume work.

In 2020, Huawei organized more than 650 charitable activities around the world. Its flagship CSR program Seeds for the Future has benefited nearly 9,000 students from 130 countries and regions, and these young people will become a valuable talent pool for the ICT industry in the future.

Over the past year, Huawei continued to enhance its compliance program and engaged and collaborated openly and proactively with stakeholders to foster mutual understanding and trust. 

In the post-pandemic era, technology is poised to play an even greater role in supporting sustainable social development. Huawei is ready and willing to work with its partners, and use innovative ICT solutions to support progress towards the UN SDGs, and ultimately, to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world.

The 2020 Sustainability Report can be found at: http://www.huawei.com/en/sustainability/sustainability-report

Cowrie Grill delights guests by offering the choicest selection of meats and seafood

Sometimes, the occasion calls for you to indulge in the finer things in life – and what better to splurge on than an unforgettable meal? Paying homage to its former home with old world opulence, The Manila Hotel-managed Cowrie Grill delights guests by offering the choicest selection of meats and seafood. 

Fine dining goes one step further at Cowrie Grill. It is a gem of a restaurant located at Promenade 3 Mall, Greenhills on Missouri Street. It is upscale and impressive, coupled with warm service reserved for VIP guests like you. Explore our distinctively flavored steaks handcrafted by our chefs, as well as tantalizing menu that includes main entrees, appetizers, healthy greens, and desserts! 

As a start, go for the French Onion Soup, or try the Maitre D’ Caesar Salad – freshly prepared greens with crunch from romaine lettuce, croutons, generously drizzled in olive oil, cheese and bacon complemented by the sweet and zesty Caesar salad dressing. Pair it with the flavorful pan-seared scallops on mushroom risotto.

Menu standouts here are the Surf and Turf set duo of Pitik Lobster Thermidor [fresh slipper lobster] and US Angus Beef Tenderloin with baked garlic and garden vegetables. Go for US Angus Beef Rib or the US Angus Chateaubriand that are seasoned and grilled to perfection. Complement this with any of Cowrie Grill’s fine selection of red wines. You also have a choice of a generous serving of certified Angus Beef Tomahawk [best shared by two].

When it comes to the food, Cowrie Grill is a great place to go for variety. Aside from meat cooked to perfection, the seafood is much more than an afterthought. Pescatarians will enjoy our mouth-watering sweet and silky Chilean Sea Bass, or the Grilled Norwegian Salmon Steak.

You must also try other good choices like the Symphony of Scallops, Baked Oysters, Iberico pork loin, and Angus Beef Burger.

An excellent ending to your hearty meal is our Chuao Chocolate Gateau, a rich four-layered cake served with Crème Anglaise. Then, there’s the crowd favorite, Baked Alaska, with its perfectly browned meringue, flambéed with brandy, mouthwatering moist sponge cake with strawberry ice cream in the middle, and layers of different textures and flavors all in one bite.  

With scrumptious food and impeccable service, Cowrie Grill’s guaranteed to impress. For table reservations, please call (02) 84631993 or email r.cowriegrill@themanilahotel.com

Huawei announces its Seeds for the Future Program 2.0

Huawei on Thursday (July 8th) announced its Seeds for the Future Program 2.0, through which Huawei plans to invest US$150 million in digital talent development over the next five years. This program is expected to benefit more than 3 million additional people.

Huawei held a "Tech & Sustainability: Everyone's Included" forum, co-hosted by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Representatives from Huawei, IUCN, the World Economic Forum, Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI), and Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA) participated to discuss the role of technology in driving sustainability and building a more inclusive, eco-friendly world.

Promoting equal access to education and talent development

According to a 2020 report by UNICEF and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), about 2.2 billion people aged 25 years or younger still lack internet connections at home. 

Huawei's Chairman Liang Hua speaks at the Tech & Sustainability: Everyone's Included forum

"Digital skills and literacy are not just the foundation for the digital economy; they are also a basic human right defined by the United Nations," said Huawei's Chairman Liang Hua at the forum. "Today we are announcing Huawei's Seeds for the Future Program 2.0. As part of our commitment to continuously developing talent, we will invest US$150 million in this program over the next five years and help college students and young people improve their digital skills. This program is expected to benefit more than 3 million additional people."

Huawei is committed to helping develop digital talent in the countries where it operates. In 2008, Huawei began to roll out talent development programs, through scholarships, technology competitions, and digital skills training, and has invested more than US$150 million in these programs. Huawei has since benefited more than 1.54 million people from over 150 countries.

The Seeds for the Future program is designed to inspire local talents and encourage seeds for the society to tackle digital challenges. The program has benefited more than 100 students in the Philippines. 

As an echo for the forum, Huawei Asia Pacific held the APAC Media Virtual Roundtable with laser focus on addressing digital inclusion and sustainable development of this region. Jay Chen, Vice President of Huawei Asia Pacific, announced Huawei’s plan to cultivate more than 40,000 ICT talent in the next five years through multiple programs including Seeds for the Future in the region.

“In the digital economy, digital talent is playing an increasingly important role in driving digital transformation and economic growth. The access to education is vital for creating opportunities that support sustainable and fair development. Due to the pandemic, we are moving the program online and opening it up to more outstanding students than ever before,” said Jay Chen.

In Asia Pacific, Huawei has been a firm enabler for building an inclusive talent ecosystem.Amid the pandemic, collaborations with top universities are accelerating. Till now, Huawei has built collaborations with around 200 universities in countries across Asia Pacific and over 40 universities in the Philippines.

Addressing environmental challenges and enabling green development

Climate change and environmental issues are becoming global challenges. Though carbon emissions declined over the past year due to the economic slowdown and worldwide lockdowns, emissions are rapidly rebounding as economies reopen. Shifting to a circular economy and achieving sustainable development is now a common goal for all countries.

"Green and sustainable development has become a top priority for global economies," said Liang. "Huawei has been leveraging its extensive experience in power electronics and energy storage as well as technical expertise in 5G, cloud, and AI, to develop its digital power business and provide digital power solutions for different industries. As of December 2020, Huawei's digital power products and solutions have generated 325 billion kWh of electricity from renewable sources, and saved a total of 10 billion kWh of electricity. These efforts have resulted in a reduction of 160 million tons in CO₂ emissions."

In Singapore, for example, Huawei FusionSolar Solution has supported Sunseap Group, a solar energy solutions provider, to build the world's largest offshore floating Photovoltaic (PV) farms. With 13,312 solar panels, 40 inverters, and more than 30,000 floats, this five-hectare sea-based solar plant is estimated to produce up to 6,022,500 kWh of energy per year, supplying enough power for 1250 four-room public housing flats on the island and offsetting an estimated 4258 tons of carbon dioxide, according to Bruce Li, Managing Director of the Huawei Asia-Pacific Enterprise Digital Power Business.

 “By working together, countries can mutually support one another to meet their sustainability commitments. There are many areas where digital technology can support this, such as in enabling a transparent and verifiable carbon market. Singapore’s public and private sectors have expressed interest in working with its neighbors on climate action,” said Associate Professor Simon Tay, Chairman of SIIA at the forum.