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PPO Concert IV: ‘Europa’ blends world-class Filipino talent with the elegance of Europe

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra—the country’s leading music ensemble—kickstarts the new year with the fourth installment of its 40th concert season, dubbed “Europa,” on January 17, 7:30 pm, at CCP at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.

PPO’s Concert IV: ‘Europa’  features world-class violinist Aylen Pritchin. He performs the elegant and diverse sounds of European classical music, playing works by master composers Zoltan Kodály, Peter Tchaikovsky, and Antonin Dvořák. Among the world’s most sought-after violinists, Pritchin is known for his versatility in contemporary music performances of both period and modern instruments.

Under the baton of PPO music director and principal conductor Maestro Grzegorz Nowak, the concert will open with Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, bringing audiences on a melodic journey to Hungary. A homage to the composer’s hometown, the 1993 folk-inspired masterpiece Dances of Galánta allowed Kodály to display his extensive skills as an ethnographer and musical pedagogue through its spiritual tunes.

Pritchin will also perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto No. 1. This masterpiece successfully held Tchaikovsky’s burning love for Russia through its majestic Canzonetta. When Tchaikovsky finished composing the piece, it was to be performed first by Leopold Auer and Karl Davydov in a concert at the Russian Musical Society in St. Petersburg in 1879. But the performance didn’t push through after the musicians declared it too difficult to play.  For years after its composition, the concerto gained a reputation as unplayable (following failed attempts by Iosif Kotek and Emile Sauret) until violinist Leopold Damrosch successfully performed it in a New York concert in 1879.

The PPO’s Concert IV: Europa concludes with Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, an inspiring composition celebrating the beauty of nature. The surroundings of Dvořák’s country house in Vyoská inspired his masterpiece in 1889. In merely 18 days, he completed the symphony’s sketch and finished its scoring in Prague. With its striking and colorful thematic ideas with varying Czech flavors, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 premiered in 1890 as part of his induction into the Czech Academy of Science, Literature, and the Arts.

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

Through PPO’s 39th Concert Season, dubbed “Forte,” the CCP continues to honor its commitment to showcasing and promoting world-class Filipino artistry while providing unique cultural experiences to its audiences. The concert season runs until April 2025.

Tickets for PPO concerts are priced at Php 3,000, Php 2,500, Php 2,000, and Php 1,500, available at TicketWorld. Be a PPO subscriber and enjoy up to 25 percent discount. To purchase a PPO’s 40th concert season subscription and other inquiries, email salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph or call the CCP Box Office at +63931-033-0880.

For more updates on PPO’s future performances, follow the CCP and PPO’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts. You may also visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph for news on future concerts, masterclasses, workshops, and other events.

#PhilippinePhilharmonicOrchestra #Europa #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Cathay Pacific returns to Rome this summer

Cathay Pacific is excited to announce that its global network will further expand this year with the launch of direct flights between Hong Kong and Rome on 5 June 2025. Operated as a three-times-weekly summer seasonal service, the Hong Kong-Rome route will be Cathay Pacific’s second direct connection between its home hub and Italy. The airline currently operates five return flights per week to Milan, increasing to daily this summer.

Visitors to Rome can look forward to exploring one of Europe’s most impressive historical and cultural centres with the city boasting countless monuments, landmarks, museums and churches. Cathay Pacific’s return to the city is especially timely, providing travellers from Asia with a convenient connection to the Italian capital as the Catholic Church celebrates the 2025 Year of Jubilee. Taking place once every 25 years, the Jubilee will see a host of events and celebrations take place in Vatican City and Rome throughout the year.

Cathay Chief Customer and Commercial Officer Lavinia Lau said: “Cathay Pacific’s history in Italy stretches back close to 40 years when we first launched direct flights between Hong Kong and Rome in 1986. We know our customers have been eagerly anticipating the return of this route, and we are delighted to be returning to Italy’s marvellous capital this summer. Whether they are travelling for business, leisure or the 2025 Jubilee celebrations, we look forward to welcoming customers onboard our flights to experience our world-class service.”

Cathay Pacific’s Rome service will be operated using the airline’s Airbus A350-900 aircraft, providing customers with fully flat beds in Business, spacious seats in Premium Economy and comfort in Economy cabins. Flight schedules are as follows (all times local, subject to change and regulatory approval):

Hong Kong – Rome (5 June 2025-25 October 2025)
Flight No. Origin Destination Departure Arrival Days of Operation
CX293 Hong Kong (HKG) Rome (FCO) 00:45 07:50 Monday, Thursday, Saturday
CX292 Rome (FCO) Hong Kong (HKG) 11:45 05:20+1 Monday, Thursday, Saturday

 

The Cathay Group is firmly focused on adding more flights and destinations for customers and strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a leading international aviation hub. The Group has now announced six cities that will be joining its global passenger network in 2025, with more to come. In addition to Rome, Cathay Pacific is launching direct flights to Hyderabad in March, Dallas in April, Munich in June and Brussels in August this year, while the Group’s low-cost carrier HK Express is launching flights to Sendai in January. The two airlines project that they will operate passenger services to 100 destinations worldwide within 2025.

Customers travelling from Europe to Hong Kong can also connect to the Cathay Group’s extensive network of destinations in Asia-Pacific via its home hub, including 19 destinations in the Chinese Mainland served by Cathay Pacific and HK Express.

For more information, please visit www.cathaypacific.com.

#Cathaypacific #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Banwa Private Island Elevates Filipino Hospitality

Beyond its exclusive accommodations and world-class amenities, the island remains deeply rooted in Filipino culture and tradition.

 

Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury retreat nestled in the pristine waters of the Sulu Sea in Palawan, Philippines, is proud to announce that 63 of its frontliners have been certified under the Philippines Department of Tourism’s (DOT) award-winning Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.

Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island, expressed the island’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality with a distinct Filipino touch. “By participating in the FBSE program and certifying 63 of our frontliners, we aim to further elevate our service standards and ensure that our guests experience the warmth and authenticity of Filipino hospitality,” she said.

Recognized globally as the “Private Island of the Year” by Destination Deluxe for three years and included in Robb Report’s “The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth” for two consecutive years, Banwa Private Island offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Beyond its exclusive accommodations and world-class amenities, the island remains deeply rooted in Filipino culture and tradition.

The DOT’s FBSE program, hailed as the Training Program of the Year at the GovMedia Awards 2024, has empowered thousands of tourism industry professionals to deliver exceptional service. By embracing the seven core values of Filipino hospitality – Maka-Diyos (God-fearing), Makatao (People-oriented), Makakalikasan (Environmentally-conscious), Makabansa (Nationalistic), Masayahin (Cheerful), May Bayanihan (Community-spirited), and May Pagasa (Hopeful) – Banwa Private Island’s team is committed to providing warm and sincere service, from the iconic “Mabuhay” gesture to personalized attention to detail.

Through the FBSE program, Banwa Private Island’s 63 certified frontliners are now equipped to deliver world-class service, ensuring that every guest feels the warmth and hospitality that the Philippines is renowned for.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ important shark and ray areas, Banwa Private Island is not only an exclusive destination but also a responsible steward of the environment. The island’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its eco-friendly practices, from sourcing local ingredients from its own organic farm to minimizing waste. Beyond its operational sustainability, Banwa Private Island actively participates in various conservation programs, including marine conservation initiatives and coral reef restoration projects. By preserving the natural beauty of the Sulu Sea, the island ensures a sustainable future for generations to come. Banwa Private Island is also known for its unspoiled natural environment, with an artesian well providing fresh spring water and a naturally mosquito-free ecosystem.

By participating in the FBSE program, Banwa Private Island reinforces its commitment to providing world-class hospitality with a Filipino heart. The island’s dedication to excellence and sustainability ensures that guests will experience a truly unforgettable and authentic Filipino experience.

For more information and inquiries in booking an island escape at Banwa Private Island, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit website at www.banwaprivateisland.com.

#BanwaPrivateIsland #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Embrace Fresh Perspectives with the ‘Of Art and Wine’ Series: ‘Machine of Thoughts’ Exhibit at Conrad Manila

Gallery C presents an immersive group exhibit that challenges perceptions and celebrates the intersection of art, architecture, and innovation.

 

Conrad Manila welcomes the new year with the unveiling of its latest art exhibit, “Machine of Thoughts”, as part of the 33rd edition of the hotel’s acclaimed Of Art and Wine series. Featuring 53 dynamic works by five prominent artist-architects from The Authenticity Zero Collective (TAZC): Cocoi Base, Gab Brioso, Almi Domingo, Walther Ocampo, and Robin Ravago, the exhibit invites viewers into a thought-provoking exploration of form, space, and human interaction.

“Conrad Manila is committed to championing local artists and fostering creative diversity through our Of Art and Wine series of exhibits at Gallery C. In the new year, we are particularly excited to introduce a dynamic line-up of six exhibits, starting with “Machine of Thoughts’, which will offer our guests a fresh perspective through immersive and unconventional art, and ignite conversations about the evolving relationship between humanity and the material world,” says Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.

Displayed at Gallery C from January 7 to March 8, “Machine of Thoughts” breaks conventional artistic boundaries through non-representational expressions. Each artwork stands as an autonomous creation while contributing to a larger evolving dialogue—a metaphorical “machine” generating new concepts and ideas. The exhibit challenges viewers to reassess preconceived frameworks, biases, and attachments to historical or cultural narratives.

The official opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony graced by distinguished guests, including Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Peggy Angeles, Executive Vice President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Guest of Honor and art curator Nestor Jardin, and the featured artists of TAZC.

Front [L-R]: Nestor Jardin (Art Curator/ Guest of Honor), Peggy Angeles (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, Executive Vice President), Elizabeth Sy (SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, President), Fabio Berto (Conrad Manila’s General Manager) Back [L-R]: Robin Ravago (featured artist), Walther Ocampo (featured artist), Cocoi Base (featured artist).
Art enthusiasts and guests are invited to experience “Machine of Thoughts” at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C, where all artworks are available for purchase. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s art collection, along with the exclusive privileges and personalized experiences for a luxury stay, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +632 8833 9999.

 About The Artists

 Cocoi Base

Cocoi Base is an architect and visual artist based in Bicol. His works are visual concepts of structures, machinery, spaces, events, and projections of how things can be, should have been or as it is, condensing each subject to its barest and most basic form until only the essential geometries, composition and color emerge.

Gab Brioso

Gab Brioso is a designer, artist and an architect who thinks about design holistically. He holds an architecture degree from the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde and a master’s degree in fine arts from the Philippine Women’s University. He is currently teaching in De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Asia Pacific College, and in Ateneo de Manila University.

Almi Domingo

Almi Domingo is an architect and visual artist. He is a graduate of Technological Institute of the Philippines-Manila and a product of the MetaArch Program 2016 of The Brown Bauhau Alternative School of Architecture + Design. His exploration uses etching technique of acrylic sheets resulting to a dynamic interplay of bold geometric elements.

Walther Ocampo

Walther Ocampo is an architect, visual artist, and a pedagogue. For him architecture and art should act together in an alchemic platform so as to produce a more poetic and authentic environment. In both architecture and art, he explores new aesthetic and theoretical directions through speculations, oppositions, diagramming, and re-constructions. This system manifests in his drawings, paintings, sculptures, and installations. He is currently an assistant professor in the architecture program of the De La salle-College of St. Benilde.

Robin Ravago

Robin Ravago is an architect and artist based in Manila. His works revolve around the formal qualities of objects and its potential relationships – explored through drawings, photographs, installations, and objects. He holds a degree in architecture from the De La Salle College of St. Benilde. He is currently teaching architectural theory and design in the architecture programs of Asia Pacific College and De La Salle College of St. Benilde.

#ConradManila #GalleryC #MachineofThoughts #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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KodeGo Offers Flexible Training to Boost Digital Skills in Filipino Workplaces

KodeGo, 917Ventures’ EduTech startup, is expanding its services to cater more to local businesses looking to strengthen their digital capabilities and skills with the introduction of their new comprehensive suite of training courses.

KodeGo’s Universal Menu comprises a total of 26 training courses designed to meet the diverse needs of medium-to-large enterprises. This includes courses that can take them through soft skills, technical expertise, and career-focused competencies.

“Being part of the Globe Group, we share in the vision of creating a Digital Nation. We see our role in that as drivers and enablers of digital upskilling for all Filipinos,” KodeGo Chief Executive Officer Ina Gervasio shared.

She added, “We wanted to build a roster of training courses that will not only upskill Filipinos technically–from basic to intermediate to advanced digital skills–but also equip them with key competencies that will help them better navigate today’s digital landscape.”

KodeGo’s Soft Skills Courses focus on enhancing essential workplace capabilities and equipping employees with foundational skills that will teach them best practices on how to drive team performance. Key topics include:

  • Business Writing
  • Professional Etiquette in the Workplace
  • Essential Skills Training
  • Time Management
  • Relationship Management
  • Stress Management
  • Strategic Planning
  • Growth Mindset
  • Business Communications
  • Creativity and Critical Thinking
  • Leadership Foundations

On the technical side, KodeGo provides training in areas such as:

  • Business Analysis
  • Project Management
  • Data Science, and;
  • Maximizing foundational tools, such as Microsoft Excel and MS Word

For businesses aiming to enhance their employees’ career-focused skills, courses cover high-demand areas including:

  • Virtual Assistance
  • Virtual Bookkeeping
  • Full-stack development
  • UI/UX design, and;
  • Cloud Concepts, Security and Compliance via Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • DevOps and DevSecOps

KodeGo began as a training boot camp that offered live courses, such as Full Stack Web Development to individuals seeking to build new skills. It later diversified its offerings by introducing short courses such as Virtual Assistance and Virtual Bookkeeping, catering to a broader audience.

Earlier this year, KodeGo transitioned to self-paced learning, further expanding its short course lineup to include programs such as Transcribing and Essential Skills before enriching its training menu to cater to the B2B sector.

KodeGo is dedicated to equipping Filipinos with essential digital skills, enabling them to seize growth opportunities and achieve their full potential.

Companies seeking to elevate their teams’ competencies can explore the full Universal Menu and partner with KodeGo for impactful training solutions. Further information is available at https://kodego.ph.

#KodeGo #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Quiapo, Quiapo!

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets, followed by thousands of devotees. In this way, Quiapo remains a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit.

 

Visiting Quiapo is not everyone’s idea of relishing a sunshiny afternoon. The crowd, especially during religious festivals, can be intimidating because of its size. The mayhem of jeepneys, buses and bustling crowds is intractable. For the adventurous, however, Quiapo offers a fascinating microcosm of the Philippines – a place where Christians and Muslims, psychics and soothsayers co-exist, sometimes not too harmoniously.

History of Quiapo

The name Quiapo is derived from a water lily locally called “Kiapo” which grew abundantly in the canals and marshes. It is different from the water lily that we see nowadays floating in the Pasig River.

Founded in 1586 by Spanish Governor-General Santiago de Vera, Quiapo’s crowded streets throb with life. Commerce is the district’s lifeblood. Shoppers weave through the narrow streets, stopping to compare prices and search for the best bargains. Harried commuters race for the jeepneys that ply Quezon Boulevard, the district’s main artery. Through it all, voices chatter in a cacophony of languages – English, Filipino, Chinese and the regional languages such as Ilocano, Cebuano, Visaya, and Maguindanao.

The best place to begin a tour is at the Plaza Miranda Square in front of the Quiapo Church. The Hispanic style church looks centuries old, but the current structure dates only to 1939. It stands as a monument to the fortitude of the Filipino spirit. Spanish missionaries established the first church on the site in the 16th century. Fire, however, destroyed the bamboo and nipa building in 1639. A new church was built but it was heavily damaged by an earthquake in 1863. Reconstruction was completed in 1899 but the fire destroyed it again in October 1929. In 1930, the reconstruction of the church was made and entrusted the design of an entirely new church with two belfries and a magnificent dome to Architect Juan Nakpil.  This is the church we see today except for some improvements.

Devotion to the Black Nazarene

The church is the focal point of activity in Quiapo. Throughout the day, Filipino Catholics come and go, attending the frequent Masses, offering private prayers or paying homage to the Black Nazarene, one of the Philippines’ most venerated statues of Jesus.

The life-size image of Christ clad in a maroon-colored robe, with a crown of thorns and a diadem in the form of three silver rays, bearing a big wooden cross, is in a semi-kneeling position, indicating His struggle to stand up with a heavy load after a fall. His face, eyes, and mouth manifest the writhing pain He suffers and portrays a calling for someone to help Him carry the heavy cross. The dynamic appearance of the image inspires countless people to develop devotion to this image.

Image: remate online

There is no definite account as to the origin of the statue of Christ bearing the ignominious cross, popularly known as Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno, which in English means Our Father Jesus The Nazarene. The statue is attributed to the work of a Mexican artist (name unknown) who painted the image of Christ in dark brownish-molato color, similar to the color of his own skin. Later the image was called Black Nazarene because when it arrived in the country in the 16th century through the Spanish missionaries the color turned darker.

On the ninth day of January, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene, the wooden statue is carried through the streets followed by thousands of devotees.

Many people believe that simply touching the statue can cure illness or improve one’s life. Crowds are often so dense that they press against the walls of buildings, and occasionally there are people crushed to death in the stampede. Devotees usually go on foot with their towels slung across their shoulders.

Image: quiapochurch.com

The image is removed from the church only every New Year, January 9 (Fiesta Day); Domingo de Lazaro (one week before the Good Friday); and Good Friday.

For the rest of the year, the Black Nazarene lies in quiet repose in a glass enclosure near the front door of the cavernous church. Worshippers file by, making the sign of the Cross and touching the coffin’s glass as if paying their respect to the dead.

(Based on the feature article published by the same author at the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine)

#Quiapo #BlackNazarene #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

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Marks & Spencer Winter Collection: Exquisite and Versatile

Step into the new year with the latest Occasion Collection from Marks & Spencer. This exquisite collection showcases exciting new shapes that are both modern and irresistibly desirable, designed to offer men and women great quality outfits, head-turning style, and endless versatility.

Womenswear

This season, the key colors include rich berry reds, shimmering metallic silver, and vibrant pops of yellow to create the perfect tone for upcoming gatherings.

In the Edit range, discover easy-to-wear pieces that will have you ready for any occasion. From statement sequin pencil skirts to shirts and draped dresses, these styles are curated from luxurious fabrics such as satin, silk, and lace. Each piece is meticulously designed to offer effortless elegance and sophistication.

For a laid-back approach, choose from embellished denim, knitwear with sequin embroidery, and borg cropped jackets. For a casual yet glamorous look, why not pair the Sparkly Cape with your favorite M&S jeans?

Discover the perfect outerwear for the season with blazers or jumpers crafted with merino wool-rich yarn and a touch of sumptuous cashmere. Choose cardigans detailed with soft textured tipped trims and gold buttons that add a touch of luxury.

Hardware, metallics, and embellishments take center stage in our accessories and footwear collection. Slingback shoes make a striking addition to any outfit, designed with double buckle straps and an elasticized back strap for comfort. Antibacterial padding provides added freshness.

Elevate your wardrobe with the exquisite womenswear collection, designed to make every moment of the season special.

Menswear

Whether you’re attending glamorous black-tie events or lively gatherings, master the art of dapper fashion with high-quality pieces that offer timeless sophistication and style.

For smart tailoring, explore an exquisite selection of luxurious coats and velvet jackets. For a relaxed approach to your celebrations, discover tailored fit separates such as joggers, fine roll necks, and sleek pleated front trousers. Cashmere tees in bold stripes, color-blocked patterns, and statement solids complete the look for any occasion.

Elevate your style with the M&S Men’s Occasionwear. Embrace the joy of the season and ring in the New Year with high-quality pieces that exude timeless sophistication and exceptional style.

Shop at a Marks & Spencer store today. Download the My SSI Life Loyalty App for FREE to earn points in-store  and get membership benefits from over 80 brands including Marks & Spencer! Shop in-store through the M&S Philippines Viber Community at bit.ly/MSPH-VC. Shop selected lines online on www.marksandspencer.com.ph

Follow Marks and Spencer at facebook.com/MarksandSpencerPH and Instagram @marksandspencerph to get the latest updates and promos

#MarksandSpencerPH #SSILife #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Warner Music Philippines Presents an Epic APT.-themed Performance!

ROSÉ and Bruno Mars fans in Bonifacio High Street were delighted last December 21, 2024 when local musicians from Banda San Jose surprised them with an incredible pop-up performance.

Those who witnessed this musical feat got to hear the record-breaking collaboration between Bruno Mars and Blackpink’s ROSÉ: “APT.”, as well as two songs from the latter’s newest solo album “rosie” – “number one girl” and “toxic till the end.”

To give the crowd something to move and groove to, the band also performed some of Bruno Mars’ greatest hits like “Uptown Funk,” “Just the Way You Are,” and “Locked Out of Heaven.”

 The APT. Formula: two global powerhouses create an irresistible hit

This lively marching band performance comes months after the release of the hit single APT., which has garnered critical acclaim throughout the world.

To date, this collaboration by ROSÉ and Bruno Mars has achieved the feat of being the biggest debut for a male-female duet on YouTube. APT. also debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Philippines Hot 100 charts, and retained this spot for five weeks.

As individual artists, ROSÉ and Bruno Mars have also been breaking records of their own. The former has set the record for the highest monthly listeners on Spotify by a K-Pop artist, which isn’t surprising given the success of her debut album. Meanwhile, Bruno Mars has amassed over 120 million monthly listeners on Spotify, making him the number one artist in the world.

It’s clear that both these musical icons continue to go beyond their already-impressive portfolio, and have cracked the code for producing hit after hit. Whether or not ROSÉ and Bruno Mars do another collaboration, fans are sure to get more amazing music from both of them in the future.

Listen to ROSÉ’s debut album, “rosie,” here.

 #Rose #BrunoMars #APT #WarnerMusicPhilippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Project Inclusion Network makes strides in disability-inclusive employment in ‘Empowered Summit’

On December 3, 2024, Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and leading financial services firm JPMorganChase celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) by hosting the “Empowered Summit: Making a Difference with 1%” at the SMX Convention Center Aura. This event brought together government representatives, experts, and employers to advance policies on disability inclusion and promote the equal participation of Persons with Disabilities in the workforce.

Empowered Summit, co-hosted by Ms. Stephanie Zubiri – author of “Chalky the Chameleon,” a story about neurodiversity and self-discovery – began with insightful discussions on Republic Act No. 10524, which mandates 1% of government positions for persons with disabilities, and encourages the private sector to follow suit. Experts and leaders, namely Mr. Randy Calsena from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Ms. Carmen Zubiaga of the Women with Disabilities Leap to Women Social and Economic Program (WOW-LEAP), Atty. Judith Dongallo-Chicano of the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Ms. Linartes Viloria of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Ms. Charmagne Adonis of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) tackled barriers in policy implementation and the need for stronger initiatives on improving reasonable accommodations and enhancing accessibility.

Reactors from various organizations provided valuable insights on advancing inclusion in the workplace. Mr. Bronson Escalderon, from Benilde School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), emphasized the need for guidance and upskilling within the Deaf community, while Ms. Carla Francesca Nobleza of Kasali Tayo highlighted the importance of normalizing the presence of persons with disabilities in the workforce. Real change starts with leaders who prioritize diversity and inclusion as central to their organizational mission,“ said Ramil Dela Cruz, Vice President for Recruitment and lead for disability hiring at JPMorganChase.

As a highlight of the event, success stories from self-advocates employed in inclusive organizations were featured. The media advocacy campaign “May 1% Ka Ba?”, in partnership with the Austrian Embassy, was officially launched. This showcased personal stories of persons with disabilities thriving in their supportive workplaces. These included Aileen Gay Sibal, a Deaf self-advocate; Lou Mallari, Rayne Saul Hugo and Michael Ladrillo, who are persons with orthopedic disabilities; and Benito Manangkil, a person with an intellectual disability, whose companies have set the standard for disability-inclusive employment. Both Teleperformance and Citihub have exceeded the 1% mandate, with Teleperformance reaching 5% and Citihub reaching 100%.

Meanwhile, representatives from the City Government of Mandaluyong, Ariel Nuestro and Christian Delos Santos, who are persons with physical disability, also shared how their local government ensures equal opportunities within public service, employing 3% of their workforce as persons with disabilities.

The event concluded with a thanksgiving dinner to recognize the partners and organizations committed to fostering a more inclusive society. As a member of the steering committee of the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), JPMorganChase is at the forefront of cultivating a supportive environment for persons with disabilities.

#PBDN #JPMorganChase #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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W Express, KVAC to Celebrate a Successful Year with Exciting New offerings for 2025  

As the year ends, W Express, the sole accredited courier service partner of the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC), reflects on a successful 2024 filled with milestones and customer satisfaction.

To celebrate this success and welcome the New Year, W Express is unveiling new and exciting perks for Filipino travelers gearing up for their South Korea adventures.

  • Reduced Family/Group Application Fees – starting January 2025, enjoy discounted rates—only Php 1,000 for the primary applicant and Php 500 for succeeding applicants.
  • New Year Raffle Promo – every Korean tourist visa applicant via W Express gets a chance to win an elegant American Tourister luggage, perfect for their travel needs.

Over the past year, W Express has consistently delivered exceptional service that has garnered glowing reviews:

  • “It was very convenient and easy. Everyone was helpful. The helpline was responsive. Very good!”
  • “Very smooth and fast process!”
  • “It was time-efficient and convenient for those who live in the province, like me. I’m thankful for this opportunity.”

With its unparalleled convenience, reliability, W Express is the premier choice for effortless and efficient South Korea tourist visa processing. “We are proud of the positive impact we have made this year. This strengthens our resolve to further simplify travel preparations for Filipinos,” said Dawn Feliciano, Chairman and President of W Express. “With our nationwide coverage and new offerings, we look forward to making 2025 an even better year for our customers.”

Ahn Kyu Suk, Managing Director of KVAC, also emphasized the significance of the partnership. “Our collaboration with W Express ensures that visa applicants receive the highest quality of service, making their travel preparations stress-free and efficient. These new initiatives further highlight our shared commitment to customer satisfaction.”

As the sole accredited courier service partner for KVAC, W Express continues to streamline the Korean tourist visa application process through its secure and reliable courier services, enabling applicants to focus on their travel plans without the hassle.

Customers are invited to visit the website https://www.wwwexpress.com.ph/ , plus like and subscribe to W Express’ official Facebook and Instagram pages @wexpressph to discover the brand’s latest news and offerings. For inquiries, customers may call the hotline at (02) 8879-8888, message on Facebook Messenger, or visit any W Express branch.

Make your 2025 South Korea adventure a reality with W Express— your partner for stress-free post-holiday travel!

#WExpress #KVAC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph