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‘Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela’ in the New CCP Out-Of-The-Box Series

The Cultural Center of the Philippines gets out of the box with its new series of concert productions, dubbed CCP Out-of-The-Box (OTB) Series, featuring performances that audiences normally wouldn’t see in conventional programming.

Conceptualized by former artistic director Chris Millado, the CCP Out-of-The-Box Series aims to create a space “for adventurous audiences, artists, and ideas.”

The OTB Series premieres with Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela, featuring excerpts and songs from classic and contemporary sarsuwela works, on June 30, 7:30 pm, and July 1, 3 pm, at the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater).

“When CCP was planning for this series, we thought about the things we have not yet done or haven’t done in a long time,” shared CCP’s current artistic director Dennis Marasigan. “We have had discussions on the possibility of producing another sarsuwela, particularly with Tanghalang Pilipino, which has done several sarsuwela revivals since the 1980s.”

Owing its roots to the Spanish zarzuela originally brought to the Philippines in the late 1800s, the sarsuwela became the popular form of entertainment for many Filipinos, particularly in the early 1900s. “The best proof of this is, when cinema was first introduced to the Philippines, some of the first films produced were based on many of the sarsuwela, such as Dalagang Bukid. The actors of these films were mostly sarsuwela stars,” enthused Marasigan.

The CCP artistic director tapped music director Joed Balsamo, who suggested including excerpts not only from Dalagang Bukid and other classics like Walang Sugat, Paglipas ng Dilim, and Sa Bunganga ng Pating, but also contemporary sarsuwela productions like Pilipinas Circa 1907, Ang Palabas Bukas, Hibik at HImagsik nina Victoria Lactaw, and Ang Palasyo ni Valentin.

A typical sarsuwela generally revolves around a love story set in the context of social realism. Walang Sugat is set during the Spanish Revolution and Philippine-American war; Paglipas ng Dilim tackles colonial mentality; Dalagang Bukid, poverty, and arranged marriages; and Sa Bunganga ng Pating, the evils of usury.

For Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela, Marasigan and Balsamo have put together top-notch performers who have all distinguished themselves in musical theater, such as Nenen Espina, Franco Laurel, Ayen Munji Laurel, Reuben Laurente, Lorenz Martinez, Shiela Valderrama Martinez, Jonathan Tadioan, and Karylle Tatlonghari.  “It would be interesting to see the dynamics of the real-life couples in the cast – Franco and Ayen, and Shiela and Lorenz – as they perform love duets. Tad (Tadioan) and Nenen have done several sarsuwelas. Karylle and Reuben are excellent singers eager to immerse in the form. All in all, it will be an entertaining evening.”

Catch the CCP Out-Of-The-Box Series: Isang Gabi ng Sarsuwela this June 30 and July 1, 2023, at the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez.

For the latest updates, follow the CCP’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Tiktok, and visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for tickets and other inquiries.

#IsangGabingSarsuwela #CCP #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Breaking Stereotypes: Redefining Fatherhood Through Art

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this transformative exhibition, on display until July 8, 2023, at the Imahica Art Gallery.

 

In a bold and inspiring move, a groundbreaking exhibition is challenging traditional notions of fatherhood and redefining the role of fathers in our society. “Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” is an extraordinary display that seeks to dismantle preconceived notions and celebrate the diversity and depth of the paternal experience through experiencing the artworks of Pandy Aviado, Diana Aviado, Fil Delacruz, Janos Delacruz, Roy Espinosa, Pauline Allison Espinosa, Nikulas Lebajo, Beatrice Lebajo, Fernando Sena, Tintin Sena, and Oddin Sena.

 This thought-provoking event serves as a platform to explore the multifaceted nature of fatherhood. Through diverse artistic expressions, the exhibition showcases the unique journeys, perspectives, and narratives of fathers from all walks of life. It aims to break down stereotypes and highlight fathers’ immense impact on their children’s lives.

Beatrice Lebajo and her artworks

“Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” challenges the traditional image of fathers as sole providers and disciplinarians. Instead, it embraces the complexity of fatherhood by showcasing tender moments of nurturing, emotional vulnerability, and deep connection between fathers and their children. The artworks on display offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that fathers bring to their roles, dispelling misconceptions and fostering understanding.

Through visual art, this exhibition invites visitors to engage with the stories of fathers who have defied societal norms and forged their own paths. It encourages us to question and reassess our assumptions, celebrating the diversity of fatherhood experiences and the power of acceptance and inclusivity.

“Inheritance: Tracing Lineage & Inspiration” goes beyond celebrating individual fathers; it aims to provoke meaningful conversations and inspire societal change. By challenging traditional roles and expectations, the exhibition invites us to envision a future where fathers are recognized as active participants in their children’s lives, capable of nurturing and emotional support.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this transformative exhibition, on display from June 17 to July 8, 2023, at the Imahica Art Gallery. Step into a world where stereotypes are shattered, and the true essence of fatherhood is celebrated. Join us in embracing the richness and diversity of paternal experiences and championing a more inclusive and progressive society. For more information, please contact 0917 894 5646. Together, let us redefine fatherhood through the power of art.

 

#Inheritance2023  #ImahicaArtGallery #groupexhibit #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Weekend Hot Pot with KBBQ at F1 Hotel Manila

Weekend or not, the best time of your day should be in the place you choose to be! F1 Hotel Manila invites you to make your eating time worth the trip!

F1 Hotel Manila indulges you to savor an eat-all-you-can Hot Pot with an array of fresh ingredients of your choosing! And what’s more, this comes with unlimited KBBQ conveniently cooked for you by our chef! Available every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM until August. Get the limited-time-only online exclusive offer of a 30% discount when vouchers are purchased at https://hotdeals.f1hotelmanila.com/.

The Canary also offers a variety of cocktails and refreshments for you to enjoy while you unwind your stresses in the heart of the city! K-cocktails and Unlimited Soju Shots are a must-try when making the best of your time relaxing at F1 Hotel Manila.

F1 Hotel Manila offers you the best city experience you can find within the heart of Bonifacio Global City. Don’t miss out on creating happy experiences! For inquiries and reservations, please call 8928-9888 or visit www.f1hotelmanila.com.

 

#WeekendHotPot  #KBBQ   #F1HotelManila #rubyspreciousmoments  #rubyasoyph

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B Hotel Alabang unveils Johnny’s Steak & Grill, delivering an exceptional dining experience

B Hotel Alabang is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated opening of Johnny’s Steak & Grill, a new addition to its renowned culinary offerings. Situated in the heart of Alabang, this boutique hotel is dedicated to providing guests with a truly premium experience through its array of amenities and services.

Johnny’s Steak & Grill has garnered immense popularity since its inception at B Hotel Quezon City. Revered for its delectable dishes and inviting ambiance, Johnny’s Steak & Grill has become a cherished destination for food enthusiasts.

Under the expert guidance of Executive Sous Chef Robert “Bam” Guevarra, Johnny’s Steak & Grill Alabang will tantalize taste buds with the juiciest steaks in town, ensuring a delightful dining experience for the entire family. With prices starting as low as 950 pesos, guests can relish a main course with a choice of two sides and sauce. Noteworthy recommendations from the chef include the famed Johnny’s Steak Ribeye priced at 1,600 pesos and the delectable Seared Tenderloin A la Plancha, available for 1,950 pesos. Additionally, guests can savor a variety of appetizers, salads, soups, and desserts, all priced at no greater than 550 pesos.

B Hotel  Alabang Team with media guests during the exclusive dinner launch of Johnny’s Steak & Grill.

B Hotel Alabang, managed by The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts, boasts a prestigious 4-star rating and prides itself on delivering outstanding hospitality. The property offers an array of features, including comfortable accommodations, an outdoor Jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation, a well-equipped gym, and a versatile function room ideal for events. Adding to its appeal, B Hotel Alabang is home to the acclaimed Prime Café, renowned for its wide selection of sought-after Filipino dishes and other beloved favorites from around the country, now complemented by the presence of Johnny’s Steak & Grill.

“We take immense pride in providing our guests with high-quality service. That’s why we continuously strive to bring the best to our hotel, such as our elevated casual dining restaurant, Johnny’s Steak & Grill. Our recognition as the number one Tripadvisor hotel in the Alabang area is a testament to the level of hospitality we are committed to delivering,” said Ms. Glennis Narciso, Hotel Manager of B Hotel Alabang.

Johnny’s Steak & Grill Alabang is open every night from 6 PM to 10 PM at B Hotel Alabang. For inquiries and reservations, please contact 0917 579 9431 or (+632) 8828 8181 or visit www.bhotelalabang.com.

 

#JohnnysSteak&GrillAlabang #BHotelAlabang #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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QUICKFX: Protect, brighten and glow

Local beauty brand QUICKFX has come a long way since its early days. From entering the skincare market with its iconic sachet format to expanding its cult-favorite Pimple Eraser line, to formulating conscious and sensitive skin-friendly ranges, QUICKFX excites and delights with innovative products championing effective ingredients that deliver fast results, at prices everyone loves—and it looks like they aren’t slowing down any time soon.

It seems like they’re just getting started—and this time, they’re here to make sure that you get the glowing summer skin of your dreams all year round with their exciting, new releases.

Enter the QUICKFX SunGlo Weekend held last June 10-11, 2023 set at Patio by Balai Norte at La Union. This gorgeous seaside hotel served as the perfect backdrop for the brand’s special guests to learn about their newest releases, including two brand new sunscreens—the QUICKFX Vita Sunscreen and Super UV Sun Spray—as well as a brand new, fruit antioxidant-powered line: the QUICKFX Glo Smoothies range. Their mission: to create products that help protect, brighten, and hydrate the skin for the ultimate all-year-round summer glow.

Smooth, flawless, glowing skin starts with adequate sun protection, and no one knows this better than QUICKFX themselves—and they’ve got you covered. The first new release is the QUICKFX Vita Sunscreen, which promises 3X Sun Care Action.

This lightweight, fast-absorbing face and body sunscreen lotion is formulated with SPF 50 PA+++, as well as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Avocado, and Chamomile Extracts. For sunscreen, touch-ups throughout the day—which are essential, especially in our sweltering Philippine summers—the brand new QUICKFX Super UV Sunspray will do the trick. This spray format sunscreen also promises SPF 50 PA+++, is formulated with Vitamin E, Sunflower Oil, Niacinamide, and Green Tea Extract, and comes in a spray can for a smooth, even application every time. These sunscreens promise to be reef-safe, kid-safe, and sweat-proof, and are guaranteed to be completely invisible once absorbed by the skin—goodbye, white cast!

QUICKFX Vita Sunscreen and Glo Smoothies Launch in La Union.

With such innovative formulas, you’d wonder if these sunscreens would make a pretty significant dent in your bank account—but don’t fret. The Vita Sunscreen retails at PHP499 with 200mL, while the Super UV Sunspray comes in a 150mL aerosol can and retails at PHP399. Price point on point, as expected. The goal: to give your skin the most even, gorgeous glow ever.

QUICKFX Glo Smoothies made its debut with two products, starting with the QUICKFX Glo Smoothies Brightening Serum Cleanser. This gentle face cleanser features a delicious blend of Watermelon and Peach Extracts, Niacinamide, and Ascorbic Acid, and is designed to detoxify, brighten, and even out the skin in as little as 7 days. Plus, with its hydrating serum formula, this cleanser is guaranteed to clean your skin thoroughly without stripping it dry.

Next, the QUICKFX Glo Smoothies Ultra Brightening Serum. Also formulated with a cocktail of Watermelon and Peach Extracts, Niacinamide, and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, this light-as-air, easily absorbed serum doesn’t just brighten the skin—it also aims to help prevent acne and wrinkles over time.

Perhaps the only thing more exciting than the new releases themselves would be their price point. The Glo Smoothies Brightening Serum Cleanser retails at P299 for 100mL, while the Glo Smoothies Ultra Brightening Serum comes in 2 sizes: in 10g for the iconic sachet format, and in 40mL for the full size, priced at PHP109 and P399 respectively. Not bad for products that are 100% made in Korea—what a steal!

The best part: these versatile new releases aren’t just great on their own—in fact, they’re designed to work even better together to help you achieve that glowing, summer glow all year ‘round.

Guests had dinner and drinks at The Lark and were invited to various activities the next day to encourage mindfulness and sustainability, like outdoor yoga and a brand-initiated coastal cleanup led by the QUICKFX brand team, Angeline Agustin, Mari Baretto-Syquia, Frances Jabeguero and Marven Abat, Vice President of The La Union Surf Club. The event provided not just an educational weekend, but one filled with rest and mindfulness not just of oneself but also of the environment as well.

Itching to get glowing with QUICKFX? The new Vita Sunscreen, Super UV Sunspray, and Glo Smoothies products are officially available for you to try! Check them out exclusively in Watsons stores nationwide. Shop the new releases on the Watsons App, as well as on the official Watsons Stores on ShopeeMall and LazMall.

#QUICKFX  #rubyspreciousmoments  #rubyasoyph

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Celebrating the Culture of San Mateo at Amiya Raya’s Kanayunan Festival

It was a sunny Saturday morning that greeted guests as they gathered at Kala Commons in Amiya Raya in San Mateo, Rizal for “Paintings & Panoramas’ The First Kanayunan and Art Festival. The event was a celebration of the arts, culture, and the people of San Mateo, set against the picturesque 270-degree unobstructed view of the Metro Manila skyline.

Not even the threat of Typhoon Betty could stop guests from gathering and enjoying the different activities and sampling the offerings at the different booths at the festival. Local entrepreneurs showcased their wares, many of which are homegrown businesses from around the area. Native kakanin and treats were being served up, made by artisanal food sellers from the area, for everyone to sample. Just the perfect midmorning snack before the main festivities began. As guests were going around, they were also treated to a special performance by the San Miguel 152 Band. It was a great way to discover all that San Mateo, Rizal had to offer not only to residents but to those looking to settle in the area.

Local food retailers serving up delicacies from San Mateo.

One of the special activities at the Kanayunan Festival was a mural presentation by the young artists who are under the care and tutelage of the Angat San Mateo Community. Aside from sharing their story via a short video, they also did live painting sessions on-site during the day.

The program for the ‘Paintings & Panoramas” opened with welcome remarks from Community Creators, Incorporated President, and CEO Charina Garcia. She thanked everyone for heading out for a day with family, spent outdoors and close to nature. Hon. Bartolome “Omie” Rivera Jr, Mayor of San Mateo Rizal also shared an inspirational message, speaking of the beauty of his municipality, being that sweet spot between city living and the great outdoors right beside mega Quezon City and the City of Marikina. The head of the Municipal Tourism Office of San Mateo, Pia Dela Rosa-Manadero, shared with everyone all the fun and exciting family-forward activities that have become popular in the area.

“Paintings & Panoramas”, the first Amiya Raya Kanayunan and Art Festival, was made possible with the support of Community Creators Incorporated, in cooperation with the Local Government of San Mateo Rizal and the Municipal Tourism Office.

The young artists of Angat San Mateo present their completed mural.

The Kanayunan and Art Festival is one of the traditional family get-together activities from Amiya Raya for residents and locals from around San Mateo. It is the idyllic locale for those craving for a day surrounded by nature and the mountains in cool balmy weather. One of the more popular family activities hosted by Amiya Raya at their clubhouse in Club Vihara is Cinema Under The Stars, where everyone can gather and enjoy an evening watching a movie while lounging in the grass and bonding with loved ones and neighbors. Last Easter, residents got to come out to join “The Great Eggscapades,” where children got to join the Easter Egg Hunt, bunny painting contests, and other fun games.

Amira Raya is a master planned residential development that is just a quick 15-minute drive out of the city. The developments boast of a 270-degree unobstructed view of the Metro Manila skyline from 160 to 240 meters above sea level. It is fused with its natural landscape, offering its homeowners a dream sanctuary, amidst cool weather and a pollution-free environment. At the end of a long day, there is nothing better than coming home to a place where you can relax and breathe in fresh air. For inquiries on how you can own a piece of nature, visit their website www.amiyaraya.com.ph or @AmiyaRayaOfficialPage on Facebook.

 

Featured photo:

VIP guests at Amiya Raya’s Kanayunan Festival (from left to right): San Mateo Municipal Administrator Jose Enrique Desiderio, Vice Mayor Jaime Roxas, Dr. Karen Umayam, San Mateo Tourism OIC Pia Manadero, Mayor Hon. Bartolome Rivera, Jr., Tourism staff Jesus Nazareth Fernando, Guitnang Bayan Bgy. Chairperson Jomer Alejandro Cruz, and Councilor Leo Buenviaje.

 

#AmiyaRaya #SanMateo #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Big names, newbies join cast of Rama, Hari

Some of the hottest names in today’s music and theatre scene are taking on major roles in the hit Filipino rock opera ballet, RAMA, HARI, which features direction and choreography by National Artist Alice Reyes and music by National Artist Ryan Cayabyab, with lyrics and libretto by National Artist Bienvenido Lumbera, Production design by National Artist Salvador Bernal and Translations by National Artist Rolando Tinio.

Gian Magdangal, fresh from his awarded run in 2022’s Carousel, and operatic stunner Arman Ferrer are Rama, with 2020 Gawad Buhay Awardee Vien King alternating.

Musical theater stars Karylle Tatlonghari, and Shiela Valderrama-Martinez take on the lead role of Sita, with fresh-face Nica Tupas alternating.

Karylle Tatlonghari as Sita in Rama, Hari (2012) Photo by Jude Bautista.

Tackling the kontrabida role of demon king Ravana are Rak of Aegis star Poppert Bernadas and Los Angeles-based musical theater actor Mathew San Jose making his Manila debut. Jonel Mojico alternates.

Theater icon Audie Gemora plays King Dasaratha in all shows.

Up-and-coming theater artists, Miah Canton, and Raflesia Bravo tackle the dual roles of Soorpanakha and Kooni, while Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana do double duty as Kaikeyi and “Gintong Usa.”

Paw Castillo and Jon Abella take on the roles of Rama’s Younger Brother, Lakshmana, and the monkey general Hanuman.

Arman says of the role, “It has been my dream role since we did it back in 2017 at the ASEAN Opening Ceremonies. I have a lot of friends at Alice Reyes Dance Philippines and I’m really excited to work with them again.”

“I’m so excited to be doing this show with Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. This is a dream role and I am so grateful.” Shiela also shares.

Karylle says: “I’m excited to see what RAMA, HARI will become this 2023.”

RAMA, HARI is based on the ancient Sanskrit epic Ramayana which follows Prince Rama from his marriage to Sita, their 14-year banishment, and their encounters with the evil Ravana and his sister Soorpanakha.

Gian Magdangal and Shiela Valderrama-Martinez as Rama and Sita.

RAMA, HARI’s presented by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and features the artists of the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) and the CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program (PASP), with guests from Guang Ming College, and other regional schools who actively participated in previous ARDP and PASP Productions.

SHOW SCHEDULE:

September 15, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*

September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Metropolitan Theater

September 16, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Metropolitan Theater*

September 22, 2023 | Friday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*

September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 2:00 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater

September 23, 2023 | Saturday | 7:30 PM | Samsung Performing Arts Theater*

*With live music performed by The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth

FUTURE SHOWS:

CARMEN AND OTHER SPIRITS, a mixed bill featuring Alice Reyes’ CARMEN with Production Design by National Artist Salvador Bernal, and new works by young Filipino choreographers.

Oct. 20-21, 27-28, 2023

PUSO NG PASKO, an all-Filipino Christmas Ballet celebrating Paskong Pinoy and paying homage to the different fiestas across the Philippine islands. Set to the timeless music of our favorite Filipino Christmas carols arranged by National Artist for Music, Ryan Cayabyab.

Dec. 1-2, 2023

Subscribe to ARDP’s 2023 Dance Season and celebrate the best of Filipino artistry and talent! For season subscriptions and ticket reservations, email ardancephilippinesinc@gmail.com. For more information, check @ARDancePh on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

About ARDP

Alice Reyes Dance Philippines (ARDP) is the newest and most exciting addition to the Filipino dance scene. Its goal is to inspire and transform lives through dance. Born out of the need to give displaced artists a home during the pandemic. Founded by National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, the company features an astounding breadth of Filipino Works by National Artists and the top Filipino choreographers. It showcases the best Filipino dancers and talents for the local and world stages.

 

#RamaHari #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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RCBC Moneybela Barangayan Banking Fuels PH’s Financial Inclusion Campaign

Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation’s (RCBC) MoneyBela Barangayan Banking boosted bank onboarding in rural areas by 210%, reached a total of 13,116 barangays or approximately 31% of the 42,000 total barangays nationwide, enabled millions of unbanked and underserved Filipinos to open their first basic deposit accounts, and grew gross transaction volume by 103%. This remarkable feat was accomplished in a record time of only six months since the flagship program was launched in November 2022.

The RCBC MoneyBela Barangayan Banking is a one-of-a-kind campaign and the first in the Philippines that hybridizes physical-digital or phygital banking services serving geographically distant and disadvantaged and conflict areas of the country. It fuses the best features of digital banking and human connection by bringing RCBC’s award-winning and world-renowned digital solutions to marginalized and rural communities, including RCBC DiskarTech and RCBC ATMGo.

The Moneybela campaign also engaged micro, small, and medium enterprises (mSMEs) through the RCBC NegosyanTech program which empowered sari-sari store owners, family-owned establishments, and grassroots businesses to earn additional income and capital by facilitating digital transactions such as cash deposits and withdrawals, bank transfers, bills payments, e-loading, and availing of teleconsultation plans and microinsurance.

As a core component of Moneybela Barangayan Banking, RCBC ATMGo is the country’s first bank-agnostic, last mile, and grassroots-oriented mobile-point-of-service ATM service, to Filipinos in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas such as Busuanga, Coron, and Cullon in Palawan province, and in armed conflict-prone areas such as Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, and all provinces under the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. The residents can withdraw government benefits without having to travel far and spend on costly transportation. RCBC ATM Go also provided additional income to small entrepreneurs who became RCBC’s ATM Go partner merchants and helped RCBC serve Filipinos in remote areas.

RCBC is the only private universal bank in the country with the most extensive reach through its RCBC ATM Go network covering all 82 provinces nationwide with over 1,400 terminals deployed at the end of 2022 and is poised to grow to 10,000 units or a projected year-on-year growth of 614%. RCBC ATMGo now has over 1,200 partner merchants. More than 65 percent of ATM Go’s financial transactions are social grants and cash withdrawals by household beneficiaries of the national government in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

 RCBC conceptualized the Moneybela Barangayan Campaign as a response to the call of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to expand financial inclusion and literacy efforts, as well as the concerns of yet-to-be-banked Filipinos that they are not digitally literate and they need assistance in bank onboarding. RCBC had special launches of this initiative during the Kadayawan Festival in Davao City and Masskara Festival in Bacolod City in 2022, and early this year, in the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City and in the Pinya Festival of Calauan, Laguna recently.

Making financial inclusion happen, one barangay at a time. Moneybela Barangayan Banking in action at Cabanatuan City.

Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer, shared that the campaign successfully targeted unbanked Filipinos who were reluctant to embrace digital finance because of a lack of knowledge and underserved Filipinos who lived in areas wherein few or no banks and ATMs are operating to cater to their daily needs.

“By combining the power of revolutionary digital solutions and the impact of meaningful human relationships, RCBC has successfully created a compelling case study of engaging Filipinos in remote, marginalized, distant, and conflict areas and providing them with financial and digital literacy, and access to a wide array of empowering products and services,” said Villanueva.

“The massive growth of our digital products and services can be attributed to our philosophy that Innovations should come with Empathy, and to the diligence and ingenuity of each RCBC employee whose dedication to finding and creating breakthroughs in finance is forever inspiring,” added Villanueva.

RCBC MoneyBela, being the first of its kind, has earned commendations from none other than the Philippines’ finance leaders, BSP Governor and Monetary Board Chairman Felipe Medalla and Department of Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno, during its official launch at the RCBC Plaza last year.

“I am really so happy that if there’s any bank that embodies the goal of bringing BSP closer to the people, it is RCBC. You [RCBC] deserve all the honors you are getting for combining old ideas like cash-lite banking,” Gov. Medalla said.

“Beyond bringing more Filipinos into the fold, your latest project [RCBC MoneyBela] shows that the future of banking requires human-centric and empathy-driven design. I am very pleased to see RCBC make significant headway in this area,” Sec. Diokno said.

RCBC is one of the country’s fastest-growing banks, and the most awarded for its banking innovations.  It is now the Philippines’ 5th largest privately-owned universal bank that breached the P1-Trillion asset mark by the end of June 2022 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. RCBC’s continuing digital and business transformation further enhanced its value and reach. With this, RCBC has become the most awarded bank in the Philippines. Among its global and local recognitions include a three-peat award as the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital by Asiamoney, back-to-back wins for Best Financial Inclusion App by The Asian Banker’s Financial Technology Innovations Awards, and the YouTube challenger award for its viral and out-of-the-box digital ad campaigns generating combined views of over 17 million. Just recently, RCBC was also hailed as the Grand Champion for Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion by the Bankers Institute of the Philippines.

 

#RCBCMoneyBela #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Bank of Botswana Seeks Inspiration from RCBC’s Digital Success

The Bank of Botswana (BoB) plans to create its own version of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation’s (RCBC) award-winning digital solution – RCBC ATMGo, in their home country. The bank agnostic, grassroots-based, and mobile powered RCBC ATMGo is among the three digital solutions showcased by RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva to BoB Deputy Governor Dr. Tshokologo Alex Kganetsano to help jumpstart the African bank’s digital transformation.

“We are beyond elated for RCBC to be chosen as a benchmark for the Bank of Botswana. By becoming a standard for other countries, RCBC fulfills its mission of redefining inclusive banking through cutting-edge innovations in both the local and international scenes,” Villanueva said.

RCBC ATMGo is the Philippines’ first  community-based,  bank-agnostic, last mile ATM service that uses mobile point-of-scale devices to make bank withdrawals, balance inquiry, bills payments, bank transfers, phone credits loading, and cardless withdrawals available and accessible to people in geographically isolated and displaced areas. It has been the Philippine government’s trusted digital payment disbursement partner even before and at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues until present for the withdrawals of social welfare benefits for Conditional Cash Transfer household recipients under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the national government. Close to 70% of its transactions are cash withdrawals of Pantawid CCT household beneficiaries done in rural areas.

RCBC is the only private universal bank in the country with the most extensive reach through its RCBC ATM Go network covering all 82 provinces nationwide with over 1,400 terminals deployed at the end of 2022 and is poised to grow to 10,000 units or a projected year-on-year growth of 614%. “This is a testament that investing in the rural and remote areas for convenient bank access can be a risky step but can ripple change industry-wide and globally,” Villanueva added. RCBC ATMGo now has over 1,200 partner-merchants.

RCBC hosted the Bank of Botswana delegation in its RCBC CollHub or Collaboration Hub in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Joining the BoB delegation were Ms. Sheila Sealesta, Advisor of Banking Currency and Settlement Department; Mr. Julius Ghanie, Director of Information and Communications Technology Department; Mr. Moeti Modimana, Head of Property Management Procurement and Projects; Ms. Ruth Baltshepi, Coordinator of Digitalization and Innovation Hub; and Mr. Vincent Golebetswe, Banking Manager.

RCBC has been awarded the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital for three consecutive years given that “when it comes to digital solutions, RCBC remains the bank to beat,” according to Asiamoney.  RCBC rose from eighth in 2018 to fifth in rank by the end of 2022 amongst the Philippines’ largest privately-owned universal banks in terms of assets. With close to 80 regional and global accolades in three years, RCBC was also the first Philippine bank to receive the YouTube Challenger award for its trailblazing and viral digital ad campaign which generated over 14 million views in a few weeks. It was also recognized by the local banking industry as the Grand Champion for Digital Payment and Financial Inclusion by the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAIPHIL).

Featured photo:

From (L-R): Bank of Botswana (BoB) Banking Manager Vincent Golebetswe; Novus Technologies Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Sidath Wijeratne; BoB Head of Property Management Procurement and Projects Moeti Modimana; BoB Advisor Sheila Malebogo Sealetsa; RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva, BoB Coordinator Ruth Baitshepi; BOB Deputy Governor Dr. Tshokologo Alex Kganetsano; BoB Director Julius Ghanie; and Novus Technologies President and Chief Executive Officer Ricardos Khoury.

 

#RCBC #BankofBotswana #digitalsolutions #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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CCP Cultural Exchange Conducts Apprenticeship Program for its Kaisa Sa Sining Network

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), through its Cultural Exchange Department (CED), conducts the 2023 Apprenticeship Program for its Kaisa sa Sining (KSS) regional arts centers on-going until June 17, 2023.

 With ongoing rehabilitation of the Main Building, the CCP CED partnered with De La Salle University (DLSU), with the MSU-IIT IPAG Inc. of Iligan City as implementing partner, for this year’s Apprenticeship Program. The two-week capacity building is held at the DLSU Pardo Hall and the Teresa Yuchengco Theater.  

 This year, there are a total of 40 apprentices from 22 provinces and cities nationwide (13 from Luzon, 10 from Visayas and 17 from Mindanao). In the past years, the program accepted 20 apprentices per year and offered training and immersion on arts and production management, film and new media, visual arts, production design, library and archives, video production, and cultural exchange. 

For 2023, the CCP decided to accept more participants to train and focus on technical theater operations and stage management, which are the priority needs of the majority of the KSS partner organizations.

 The apprentices will receive mentoring on technical theater, with accompanying lectures, interactions, demonstrations, case studies, and practical applications from trainer-facilitators Arnelio Manzano, Joey Nombres, Ed Murillo, Roman Cruz and Orlan Absin.

The hands-on training modules are designed to enhance the competence level and skills of regional cultural workers in technical theater, stage management, and arts management.

 Now in its 6th year, the two-week capacity building training-workshop is one of the support programs that the CCP CED provides for its KSS network, which has 64 members nationwide to date, composed of local government units, educational institutions, and community-based organizations. 

 

#CCP #apprenticeshipprogram #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph