Gaining solid ground through education

Stability is the foundation of a well-lived life. With basic needs fulfilled, people have the opportunity to develop themselves, explore various facets of life, and contribute to the welfare of the community.

When aspiring youth, especially those from low-income households, are given the chance to stand on solid ground, they readily take the chance. They utilize it as a seedbed where they can cultivate their dreams and aspirations.

One testament to this is SM scholar alumna Jonnah Jane Sacamay, who grew up in a family where stability seemed like an uncharted territory. Years back, Jonnah’s family’s main source of living was flower farming. This made them walk on a thin line as the demand for flowers was seasonal, and they were also often affected by unpredictable weather disturbances. 

Jonnah (center) with her parents during her graduation

But while they had journeyed through life with uncertainty, they had always planted in her mind the power of education.

“Given that the nature of farming is very seasonal, our income is not stable. Aside from augmenting our daily needs, we also had to ensure that my education is secured,” Jonnah recalled. 

Holding on to the power of education

And so, to help her family, she studied hard in grade school as soon as she learned about others who had the opportunity to pursue college through the SM College Scholarship Program. With her whole heart dedicated to learning and her eyes set on the SM scholarship, she finished high school as the class valedictorian. Once the forms were available, she immediately processed her application at the SM Store in Cebu.

“I was informed that I got accepted as an SM Scholar. From then on, a huge weight was lifted off my parents' shoulders. I could pursue my chosen degree in my chosen university,” she added.

Through the scholarship offered by the SM group through SM Foundation, she was able to focus on the development of her skills and knowledge not only in accountancy but especially in life. She became a Magna Cum Laude graduate of BS Accountancy at the University of San Carlos.

“The SM Scholarship helped me reach my dream of becoming a CPA, and this opened doors for me, enabling me to land a job that empowered me to help my family,” she said. 

“My experience in retail has given me wide knowledge in different areas. With this, I always make sure that my family makes informed decisions in all aspects of life. One thing that has become a tradition among SM Cebu scholars during my time was to have an outreach program. In our own way, we were able to pay forward the help that we received from SM. It was a fulfilling experience that we could share our blessings in our own little way,” she added.

Jonnah currently serves as a Senior Accounting Manager at the SM Store, Cebu. Aside from financial security, she currently takes care of her parents’ medical expenses and lets them enjoy vibrant life experiences after retiring as flower farmers.

Jonnah Sacamay serves as a Senior Accounting Manager at the SM Store in Cebu.

“Having a degree enabled me and my family to experience more in life. It paved the way for me to secure a stable job, which allowed me to travel, treat my family to a nice meal, take them shopping on special occasions, and most importantly, support my parents and their medical expenses. Aside from providing me with a scholarship grant, working in SM has provided a sense of security for me and my family,” she shared.

Opening doors to more

SM Foundation made it its goal to help create an environment where low-income families can thrive and achieve stability, just like how the SM College Scholarship Program paved ways for Jonnah and her family.

For the school year 2023-2024, the application period is open from February 1-March 31, 2023. The selected scholars may specialize in accounting, information technology, engineering, and education with full tuition and monthly allowance, including enrichment programs and activities. 

For more information about the SM College Scholarship program, visit https://www.sm-foundation.org/what_we_do/college-scholarship-program. 

SM Cares joins the rest of the world in observing Earth Hour this coming March 25

SM Supermalls, together with its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, is joining the rest of the world in observing Earth Hour this coming March 25 as the company renews its commitment to environmental stewardship.

This year's Earth Hour is all about "creating the Biggest Hour for Earth," and those who want to participate in the global activity are encouraged to spend 60 minutes doing something positive for the planet, in addition to switching off their lights.

SM Supermalls has been supporting Earth Hour and the WWF since the initiative was first held in the Philippines in 2008. This year, customers, tenants and employees at SM malls nationwide are once again encouraged to “Give an Hour for Earth” as SM Supermalls joins the annual Global Lights Switch Off from 8:30 PM to 9:30PM on March 25. 

This day also marks the start of the World Wildlife Fund’s Virtual Earth Hour Run, a self-paced run supported by SM Cares, to be held from March 25 to April 30, 2023. The run aligns with SM Supermalls’ bid to make “Earth Hour, Any Hour” as participants are encouraged to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle by running and win prizes along the way. Joiners may register here and tag SM Cares and WWF as they post their stopovers at SM malls with hashtag #BiggestHourForEarth and #EarthHourVirtualRun.

Aside from these, SM Supermalls has been pushing to minimize its carbon footprint in support of the global green movement through various programs ranging from responsible energy consumption to investing in renewable energy.

For instance, more than 50 percent of the energy consumed by SM malls all over the country now come from renewable sources. In terms of solar energy usage, SM now has 12 malls equipped with energized solar panels, with SM Mall of Asia as the latest mall to receive a solar panel installation, which has a capacity of 2.003 MWp.

SM has also been recognized for exceeding compliance with RA7920 or the New Electrical Engineering Law, which regulates the practice, licensing, and registration of electrical engineers and electricians. This is proof that SM is operated and maintained only by highly qualified engineers.

SM Cares' sustainability initiatives include the Trash-To-Cash Market and the Plastic Waste Collection program, which encourage responsible solid waste disposal among Filipinos; the annual Green Film Festival which promotes environmental awareness among students and the youth; and the International Coastal Cleanup which encourages stakeholders to do their part in keeping our seas and oceans clean.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the country’s biggest chain of malls built by one of Southeast Asia’s leading real estate developer, SM Prime Holdings. It is responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community, including programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

Get better quality shots using the new HONOR X8a!

Still not over with concerts not allowing professional cameras such as DSLRs? Well, the all-new HONOR X8a will leave you feeling like you just brought one with its 100 MP Ultra-Clear Camera! And up until March 24, you can avail this new HONOR phone for pre-order at Php 10,990 and get a FREE HONOR Earbuds worth Php 1,590.

 

“Believe it or not, phone cameras just keep on getting better and better. May it be for your photography hobby or you just like taking pictures, our new HONOR X8a is ideal for you. Portraits, landscape or concert photos, name it, you can get better quality shots using this new smartphone,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.

HONOR Philippines GTM Manager Steven Yan, Country Manager Sean Yuan, Vice President Stephen Cheng, Brand Marketing Manager Joepy Libo-on, PR Manager Pao Oga with Home Credit Philippines Partner Marketing Lead Richard Sarinas

  

HONOR X8a’s Powerful Camera System

During its launch recently, the HONOR X8a 100MP triple rear camera system was put on a test in a sunset cruise. Guests took out their HONOR X8a to capture the beautiful sunset scenery of Manila. Comprising a 100MP Main Camera, a 5MP Wide & Depth Camera and a Macro Camera, the HONOR X8a can capture high-definition images in vivid clarity, even when shooting complex scenes. The HONOR X8a also features a 16MP Front Camera to ensure users can capture spectacular, high-definition selfies.

Sunset Shot by Mr. Art Samaniego of Manila Bulletin

 

Testimonials

What better way to prove it than taking it from a budding professional photographer, GMA Artist, and HONOR Star, Khalil Ramos who recently attest to HONOR X8a’s superb camera quality.

 

 

And if you are one with those who are still watermelon-sugar high from the Harry Styles concert, here are some shots taken by HONOR X8a.

Are you convinced yet? The HONOR X8a comes in three stunning colors; Cyan Lake, Titanium Silver, and Midnight Black and is available for pre-order from March 14 to 24, 2023 with FREE  HONOR Earbuds worth Php 1,590 via all HONOR kiosks and partner online stores –  Lazada (http://bit.ly/40iFPjB), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3mNbds1), and Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3ZYbqqy).

 

HONOR fans can also avail the HONOR X8a via Home Credit for as low as Php 1,332 per month and on a 0% interest installment payment.

 

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

RELEX Solutions is able to provide insights to diminish disruptions to business operations

As the Philippines continue to experience high inflation, recording 8.6% in February 2023, Filipinos are expected to adjust their budgets and prioritize essential goods and services. While this poses an opportunity for grocery retailers to increase sales, the ongoing global supply chain disruptions have also made it difficult to keep inventory high and prices low. 

 

According to the World Economic Forum, the invasion of Ukraine is a primary cause of much of the energy and food price inflation in many countries and is fueling a global food crisis. Extreme weather also continues to disrupt the global supply chain by impacting major shipping routes and crop yields. In the Philippines, storms in the 2021-22 crop year caused sugar shortages, resulting in skyrocketing price increases from Php 54.5 to Php 89.5 per kilo for refined sugar.

 

As inflation is expected to remain high in 2023, economists anticipate a recession in major economies, which will certainly affect the developing world. It is also likely this will have a significant impact on grocery retailers. Fortunately, machine learning and AI (artificial intelligence) technology,  like the technology used by global supply chain leader RELEX Solutions, is able to provide insights to diminish disruptions to business operations. 

Automated demand forecasting reduces operational costs 

 

Amid rising costs of goods and services, Filipinos are becoming more price sensitive, seeking sales and markdowns and assessing which shops or channels offer the most competitive prices. Following recent gas price hikes, many online delivery platforms increased their fees resulting in  changes to customer shopping patterns, who are now opting for in-store shopping. With more foot traffic expected in groceries and supermarkets, keeping a high inventory at a low price becomes essential. 

 

In order to adapt quickly to these and other changes, retailers should leverage automation and artificial intelligence-driven insights to cut down operational costs and lower the cost of goods and services. AI helps predict the impact of demand drivers such as promotions, prices, product displays, and weather data to accurately forecast demand and optimize replenishment. For retail operations, this means that they can better allocate their manpower and avoid losses. 

 

AI allows more efficient inventory management for omnichannel 

 

While retailers are expected to have an increase in foot traffic, online channels will continue to be prevalent due to the convenience and savings they offer through digital promotions. According to a report by Meta and Bain & Company, the Filipino digital consumer population is the second largest in Southeast Asia at 69 million and is expected to continue growing its gross merchandise value by 20% by 2027. 

 

With the increased demand for omnichannel, retailers should focus on removing silos within their e-commerce and brick-and-mortar businesses and start managing both as a single, unified business. This transformation is a laborious task that requires accurate, real-time reporting to adequately manage customer expectations, making it essential for retail brands to integrate solutions powered by AI. The right tools ensure fulfillment of online orders from stores, customer backorders, and online orders are correctly accounted for in forecasting and inventory planning, even as products are redirected from one fulfillment center to another.

 

AI enables a better customer experience

 

When retailers are out of stock, they’re losing sales and possibly customers. The efficiency of a retailer’s replenishment operation is critical to maintaining customer satisfaction and business profitability. However, a recent study by RELEX Solutions found that close to 50% of retailers don’t know how much stock they have in each store, revealing a gap in the strategic approach to accurate and effective store ordering among these companies.

 

To stay on the consumers’ radar, retailers need to prioritize efficient replenishment systems that address customer needs without burdening resources. With consumers being able to shop anytime and anywhere, AI and machine learning technology help brands keep the right amount of inventory, forecast changes in demand, and adjust replenishment orders, driving improvements to service, sales, and customer satisfaction. 

 

“The evolution of artificial intelligence in retail is very timely due to the need for businesses to save up money as current economic conditions push customers and partners to minimize expenses,” said Kristie Davison, Vice President for APAC at RELEX Solutions. “AI helps retailers eliminate excess costs and manage their cash flow for better business sustainability.”

 

SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI) sent aid to quake-hit Türkiye, Syria

In solidarity with earthquake-hit countries Türkiye and Syria, SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI) sent aid through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) last Feb. 27, 2023.

SMFI’s Connie Angeles (second from left) hands the donation to PRC chairperson Dick Gordon (third from left). Joining the turnover are  PRC Governor Ernesto Isla and PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang (first and fourth from left, respectively). Photo from PRC.

Represented by SM Foundation Health and Medical Programs Executive Director Connie Angeles, SMFI handed 200 units of gasoline generators to PRC to provide power to the quake-stricken Türkiye and Syria.

Additionally, the social good arm of SM also donated Php5 million to help address the needs of earthquake victims.

PRC volunteers prepare to ship 200 units of gasoline generators donated by SM Foundation for quake-hit Türkiye and Syria. Photo from PRC.

 The aid comes after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit southeast Türkiye and northwest Syria. The disaster was followed by a magnitude 6.3 earthquake, hitting southern Turkiye, which led to additional casualties and damages.

 

To learn more about SM Foundation’s social good programs, visit www.sm-foundation.org or follow its social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube): @SMFoundationInc.

Ortigas Malls is bringing an “eggciting” Easter activity for kids as Pororo & Friends drops by for an Easter Eggventure

Ortigas Malls is bringing an “eggciting” Easter activity for kids as Pororo & Friends drops by for an Easter Eggventure at Estancia Mall on April 9, 2023.

 

Known from the South Korean animated children’s show Pororo the Little Penguin, Pororo and his friends always go on adventures in the snowy Porong Porong Forest. It’s become a popular cartoon in many countries around the world as each episode is filled with valuable life lessons that kids can learn from.

On Easter Sunday, Pororo & Friends will welcome kids and their parents for an afternoon of fun Easter Eggventure activities, such as the Egg Hunt and Pororo Fun Show at the G/F East Wing of Estancia Mall on April 9, 2023. There will be two batches for the Egg Hunt (1pm and 3pm) and the Pororo Fun Show (2pm and 4pm).

 

Ortigas Community Cardholders can secure tickets for the event by presenting a single receipt or accumulated purchase of P2,000 from any establishment in Estancia, including Unimart and SM Store, to the concierge attendant. Customers can sign up for their own Ortigas Community Card for free via the Ortigas Malls app. The promo and ticket claiming will start on March 17, 2023 and end on April 9, 2023.

 

For more information on Easter Eggventure with Pororo & Friends, visit Estancia Malls’ social media pages: @estanciaofficial on Facebook and @estanciaph on Instagram.

 

Ortigas Malls will also hold a Barn Eggsploration: Easter Farm Celebration at G/F, Centermall in Greenhills on April 9, 2023. There will be Balloon Twisting, Egg & Face Painting from 1 to 2pm; Egg Hunt from 2 to 3pm; and a Barnyard Mini Musical Show from 3 to 4pm.

 

Over in Tiendesitas, there will be a Luau Easter Eggventure at Level 1, Building B on April 9, 2023. Kids can experience Balloon Twisting, Egg & Face Painting from 1 to 2pm; Egg Hunt from 2 to 3pm; and a Luau Mini Musical Show from 3 to 4pm. 

 

Download the Ortigas Malls app to find out more about upcoming events, and sign up for the Ortigas Community Card for exciting perks.

Timezone launches the largest premiere family entertainment at Ayala Fairview Terraces

Northern Quezon City residents of all ages can treat themselves to a new, sprawling entertainment destination with a host of fun activities, as the premiere family entertainment center brand, Timezone, opens its largest venue in the Philippines at Ayala Fairview Terraces. The new Timezone location is a spalling 2,800 square meters and packed with thrilling attractions, classic and trending high-octane arcade games, and immersive VR zones that are sure to bring out the child in everyone, no matter their gaming style.

Celebrity guest Rodjun Cruz

Rafael Prats Jr. – Timezone’s President and General Manager

Elaine Alzona – Leisure and Allied Industries Philippines (LAIP) Director

Clavel Tongco – Operations Head of Ayala Malls

Chris Maglanoc – Chairman, Leisure and Allied Industries Philippines Inc.

Ryan Pablo – Timezone’s Operations Manager

Event host Janeena Chan

This newest entertainment zone is the first-ever venue in the Philippines to have more than 160 of the latest arcade games, the famous Hologate VR attraction, the ever-popular Spin Zone Bumper Cars, and much more—ensuring maximum enjoyment for all age groups and cementing Timezone as the destination to have a great time together with family and friends. 

As with all Timezone venues, the experiences are designed for all age groups to play together—whether it’s families bonding with their kids, couples going on a date, or work colleagues and friends having a friendly challenge. On top of that, this venue also boasts Timezone’s largest Prize Shop ever, with a gallery of attractive prize incentives for the ultimate Play-&-Win enjoyment.

Timezone Philippines President & General Manager Raffy Prats says, “Timezone's new venue at Fairview Terraces—is an experience like no other. Levelling up the entertainment experience with world-class arcade games and attractions, Timezone is sure to win over audiences, young and old alike. Our indoor family entertainment concept provides an immersive and competitive environment that allows visitors of all ages to have a blast while spending quality time with each other.”

The Fairview location is the latest branch of the Australian family entertainment chain, which has long ago established itself in Filipino culture as a site of lively and spirited outings. Visitors can choose to hang out at four full-lane bowling alleys or six short-lane bowling alleys for some fun competition or relax at the Let’s Eat snack bar, in addition to the expansive gaming area. Mainstays like the Basketball Zone, Ping-Pong Zone, Premium Music Booths, and Party Rooms round out Timezone as the top choice entertainment destination for all happy occasions.

Prats points out, “This branch is our largest venue to date and has the most number of amusement attractions in one location. The fact that there is no other Timezone venue like it makes this particular venue very special. We are excited to welcome families and friends and we have exciting offers and prizes to kickstart their fun.”

Timezone at Ayala Fairview Terraces is ready to welcome guests with an amazing Fun App exclusive offer - P500 worth of game credit for a purchase of P500 Powercard load. This offer is valid from March 10-16,2023 only. 

Gather your family and friends for hours of fun, only at Timezone.

Facebook: Timezone Philippines (https://www.facebook.com/timezone.philippines)

Instagram: @ilovetimezone 

ED SHEERAN TAKES VIEWERS ON AN INTIMATE JOURNEY BEHIND HIS LIFE AND MULTIPLATINUM HITS IN DISNEY+

 

Disney+ announced today the four-part docuseries “Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All,” in which Emmy Award-winning producers at Fulwell 73 Productions (“Elton John Live: Farewell from Dodger Stadium “Adele: One Night Only,” ”The GRAMMY Awards”) will take viewers on a journey around the world spotlighting how an unlikely child with a stutter rose to fame to become one of the biggest global music superstars and how his chart-topping hits were born. “Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All,” from Disney Branded Television, is set to premiere globally Wednesday, May 3, on Disney+.

For the first time, global superstar Ed Sheeran opens the doors to a definitive and searingly honest view into his private life as he explores the universal themes that inspire his music. This series follows Ed after he learns of life-changing news and reveals his hardships and triumphs during the most challenging period of his life. Blending exclusive, never-before-seen personal archive, present-day actuality, authentic interviews with his wife and loved ones, and intimate

performances in cinematic locations, the series widens the lens to unearth what Sheeran thinks of the world, of himself and his music, as well as showcases a decade of hits enjoyed by subscribers around the world.

Throughout his long, successful career, Sheeran has inspired multiple generations of adults, families and kids across the globe with his chart-topping music and intimate storytelling in his songs. In each episode, Ed faces themes and emotions that most people experience. Ed expresses his deeper thoughts as he reassesses life, and how this difficult time has influenced him and his new music. Ed’s upcoming sixth studio album, “ - ” (pronounced “Subtract”), is set to be released on Friday, May 5, through Atlantic in the US, Atlantic/Asylum Records in the UK and Atlantic/Warner Music in the rest of world, with the lead single “Eyes Closed” arriving this Friday, March 24.

“In this docuseries, we’re going to reveal a side of Ed Sheeran that fans have never seen before,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “Together with Fulwell 73, we’ve created something truly authentic and personal that will not only entertain audiences but also inspire them to dream big and pursue their passions.”

“I’ve always been very guarded in my personal and private life; the only documentary I’ve ever made has been one that focused on my songwriting,” said Sheeran. “Disney approached me to make a four-part documentary, and it felt like the right time to open the door and let people in. I hope people enjoy it.”

“Everyone in the world knows and loves Ed Sheeran’s songs, as he has been the soundtrack to so many moments of our lives,” said Fulwell 73 partners Ben Turner and Ben Winston in a joint statement. “But this series of films shows the true man behind the hits, showing Ed in an entirely different way after a tumultuous year personally and professionally. This four-part series has been an honor for us to make.”

Episodes include the following:

“Love”

Ed Sheeran explains the unwavering work ethic that has driven his global success. With exclusive footage of his teenage years, Ed describes how he planned his unlikely success. When he was ignored by the music industry he started to play in unexpected settings until this determination brought him into contact with media entrepreneur Jamal Edwards in 2010. Together, they used the burgeoning internet to find their audience. “The A Team” breaks America but for Ed something was still missing. Ed shares the story behind his iconic love song, “Perfect” about his old school friend and now wife Cherry which tells of their romantic love story.

Ed seems to have everything, until Cherry gets life altering news and Ed quickly realizes that plans can change in an instant and he will have to adapt.

“Loss”

Ed, his parents, and wife Cherry look at old photos of Ed and explain why he decided to return to live in his English hometown. With unseen footage of Ed’s Divide Tour, Ed introduces his tight fortress of trusted friends that keep him anchored. Then, the unthinkable happens. Ed’s best friend, Jamal Edwards, suddenly dies. Ed struggles through a memorial for Jamal as he considers Jamal’s legacy. Ed meditates on the meaning of friendship and, using music as therapy, dives deep into work. During Ed’s 5-night run at London’s Wembley Stadium, British artist, Stormzy, joins Ed on stage in an epic performance before a smaller, surprise gig in his hometown. In a rousing homecoming singalong, Ed sings the iconic “Thinking Out Loud” to shocked locals looking on.

“Focus”

Ed shows his songwriting talents in exclusive archival footage showing the inception of one of his biggest hits, “Bad Habits.” Ed explains the origin story of writing “Eyes Closed” in 2018, through to its latest heartfelt version. After a turbulent year, Ed’s able to channel his emotions, and pours himself into completing his 5-album masterplan with Subtract, which has eluded him for over a decade. Mourning the loss of Jamal, Ed continues at pace, filming 14 music videos for his new album and has his childhood dream come true when he performs with Eminem at the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, but Cherry worries he may be using work as a distraction. In an intimate performance, Ed publicly shares songs from Subtract for the first time but is overwhelmed when his emotions get the better of him.

“Balance”

In the final episode, Ed jets off to America to promote his tour. Both Ed and Cherry reflect on how they manage the challenges of balancing family life and work when they are regularly miles apart. Reunited at their home, Cherry explains how much of a shift she has seen in Ed over the last year. Ed meets up with friend and fellow British artist, Stormzy, to share his apprehensions of releasing his most personal thoughts into the world with Subtract. In a tribute to Jamal, Ed writes a beat for his “F64” rap about their friendship for an intimate performance at Chelsea FC’s home ground, Stamford Bridge. After some good news about Cherry’s health, she and Ed reflect on all the hardships and triumphs over the last year and look towards the future having a more cherished outlook on life.

“Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All” is produced by Fulwell 73 Productions. For Fulwell 73, Ben Winston and Ben Turner are executive producers. David Soutar is series director. For Disney Branded Television, Marc Buhaj is vice president, Unscripted and Nonfiction, and Nicole Silveira is vice president, Unscripted.

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