Posted on

Help alleviate hunger: GlobeOne App now accepts Rewards points donations for Project PEARLS

In celebration of Project PEARLS’ 14th anniversary, Globe and TM customers can now help combat hunger in the country and give disadvantaged children a better life by donating their Rewards points to the organization through the GlobeOne app.

Project PEARLS, a partner of Globe’s hunger alleviation program, The Hapag Movement, has been tirelessly working since 2010 to provide education, empowerment, nutrition, and healthcare to communities in need across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Zambales.

As it enters another year of service, Project PEARLS is expanding its fundraising efforts to reach more supporters and make an even greater impact.

“We are happy to partner with Globe in offering this convenient yet impactful way for its customers to contribute to our cause,” said Melissa Villa, Project PEARLS Founder and Executive Director. “Every donation, no matter how small, helps us provide nutritious meals, education, and healthcare to children and families in need.”

Globe and TM customers can donate as little as one Rewards point to Project PEARLS, making it easier than ever for individuals to support the organization’s vital work. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Hapag Movement’s goal of leveraging technology and partnerships to drive collective action for sustainable development.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Project PEARLS on its 14th anniversary of making a profound difference in communities across the Philippines,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe. “To mark this milestone, we are excited to empower more people to join the fight against hunger by offering our customers the opportunity to donate their Rewards points to Project PEARLS via the GlobeOne app.”

In addition to the new GlobeOne app donation channel, Project PEARLS is commemorating its anniversary with other exciting initiatives.

Project PEARLS has launched a virtual charity auction, offering supporters the chance to bid on exclusive items such as a Taylor Swift-signed acoustic guitar, framed NBA jerseys autographed by basketball legends Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and Steph Curry, a trip to Tuscany, and more. While primarily targeting US-based supporters, these prizes can be shipped worldwide, expanding the reach of Project PEARLS’ fundraising efforts.

The anniversary celebrations will culminate in a gala event at the end of the month, bringing together some of Project PEARLS’ biggest partners, including Globe and Canva. This event will highlight the organization’s achievements and reinforce its commitment to creating lasting change in communities across the Philippines.

Globe’s collaboration with Project PEARLS started earlier this year. The organization became an international partner of the Hapag Movement, enabling US-based individuals and corporations to contribute to the cause through the dedicated platform at https://givebutter.com/c/globe_projectpearls/. This alliance has opened up new avenues for global engagement, particularly among the 4 million Filipino-Americans in the United States.

The Hapag Movement, launched in 2022, has already made significant strides in addressing hunger in the Philippines. To date, it has provided food packs to over 95,000 Filipinos and produced 2,662 livelihood training graduates, with 2,361 of them successfully starting their own small businesses.

Despite these efforts, the need for continued support remains crucial. In June 2024, 17.6% of Filipino families reported experiencing involuntary hunger or had nothing to eat at least once, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey. This is an increase from 14.2% in March 2024.

Hapag Movement and Project PEARLS call on the public to support its various fundraising activities as every contribution helps the organization move closer to its vision of a world where no child goes hungry.

To learn more about how to make a lasting difference in the lives of those most in need, visit Project PEARLS/Hapag Movement website.

#Globe #ProjectPEARLS #HapagMovement #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Banwa Private Island Named Among Robb Report’s ‘Greatest 50 Luxury Hotels on Earth’ for Second Consecutive Year

Banwa Private Island is honored to announce its inclusion in Robb Report’s prestigious “Greatest 50 Luxury Hotels on Earth” list for the second consecutive year. This esteemed recognition solidifies Banwa Private Island’s position as one of the world’s premier private island destinations.

Robb Report, the definitive authority on luxury, has meticulously selected the world’s most exceptional hotels for its annual Top 50 list. These extraordinary properties offer unparalleled luxury and timeless elegance. Each hotel has been rigorously evaluated by Robb Report’s 22 Travel Masters, ensuring that only the finest establishments are recognized.

With a legacy spanning nearly half a century, Robb Report is the ultimate arbiter of luxury. The brand’s global influence and discerning readership make this recognition a testament to Banwa Private Island’s commitment to exceptional hospitality.

“We are deeply honored to be named to Robb Report’s Top 50 Luxury Hotels list once again,” said Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island. “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team in creating extraordinary experiences for our guests. To be included among such prestigious properties is a true privilege.”

Nestled within the pristine marine sanctuary of northeastern Palawan, Banwa Private Island offers an intimate all-villa retreat where guests can immerse themselves in unparalleled tranquility and a profound connection with nature. Each of the six contemporary villas provides an oasis of comfort and privacy, while the island’s dedicated staff delivers intuitive and heartfelt service.

#BanwaPrivateIsland #RobbReport #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Give the Gift of Travel Through HSMA’s September Online Sale

Get up to 75% off on hotel and resort stays, dining packages, and more.

 

The September Online Sale, organized by the Hotel Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA), is back with 85 hotels and resorts participating in the online travel fair this year.

HSMA is the premier organization of hotel sales and marketing leaders in the country, with members representing hospitality properties in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

What started in 2020 as a way to boost the hotel and hospitality industry during the pandemic has become the Philippines’ biggest online travel sale, an anticipated annual event known for great deals and exciting offers.

The month-long online sale, which kicks off on September 1, is the perfect chance to start your Christmas shopping—because is there a better gift than the gift of travel? You’ll give the people you love beautiful adventures, enriching experiences, and memories to cherish forever.

In 2023, approximately 3,700 vouchers were sold, totaling a revenue of  P19M.

The top ten selling properties were Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay, El Nido Resort in Miniloc island, Palawan, Bai Hotel Cebu, Okada Manila, The Lind Boracay, Mithi Resort and Spa in Bohol, Belmont Hotel Manila, Seda Nuvali Laguna, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, and Acuatico Beach Resort in Batangas.

In terms of area, member properties from Southern Luzon, Palawan, Leyte, Davao, Cebu, Bohol and Boracay had the biggest share of the revenue from total sales last year.

The best part is you can do all your booking and shopping without leaving the comforts of your home—no need to trawl through multiple sites either in search of good rates.  To avail of the discounts, interested parties simply need to visit the HSMA website – hsma.org.ph/sos beginning September 1, 2024.  Once on the site, they can choose from a selection of featured destinations and hotel offers. They can immediately book and purchase their preferred hotel offers and a voucher will be sent to them soon after.  The sale officially ends at midnight on September 30, 2024.

There are 85  participating hotels and resorts this year, categorized into nine (9) clusters.

The Alabang, Pasay, and Parañaque Cluster features Acacia Hotel Manila,
B Hotel Alabang, Belmont Hotel Manila, Crimson Hotel Filinvest Manila, Grand Westside Hotel Inc, Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City, Hyatt Regency Manila, Kingsford Hotel Manila, Lanson Place Mall of Asia Manila, Okada Manila, Savoy Hotel Manila, Seda Manila Bay, and Bellevue Manila.

The Bohol, Iloilo, and Bicol Cluster includes Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort Panglao, Bluewater Panglao Beach Resort, Misibis Bay Resort, Mithi Resort and Spa, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, and The Bellevue Resort Panglao.

The Boracay Cluster has Astoria Current, Belmont Hotel Boracay, Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay, Discovery Boracay, Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club, Feliz Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Boraca,  and The Lind Boracay.

The Cebu Cluster includes Bai Hotel Cebu, Belmont Hotel Mactan, Bluewater Maribago Beach Resort, Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort, Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan, Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort, J Park Cebu, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, Quest Hotel and Conference Center-Cebu, and Savoy Hotel Mactan.

The Manila and Makati Cluster features Bayview Park Hotel, Diamond Hotel Philippines, Dusit Thani Manila, Hotel Lucky Chinatown, Seda Residences Makati, Sheraton Manila Bay, The Manila Hotel, and Winford Manila Resort and Casino

The North Luzon Cluster comprises Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Clark Marriott Hotel, Quest Plus Conference Center Clark, and Swissôtel Clark Philippines.

The Palawan and Davao Cluster has Acacia Hotel Davao, Astoria Palawan, Club Paradise Palawan, Discovery Samal, Dusit D2 Davao, Dusit Thani Lubi, Lihim Resorts El Nido, Miniloc Island Resort El Nido, and Seda Lio.

The Pasig, Taguig and Quezon City Cluster includes Ace Hotel and Suites, Astoria Plaza, B-Hotel Quezon City, BSA Twin Tower, Discovery Suites, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, F1 Hotel Manila BGC, Grand Hyatt Hotel, Joy Nostalg Hotel, Luxent Hotel, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, Seda BGC, Seda Vertis North, and The Linden Suites.

The Southern Luzon Cluster features Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel, Acuaverde Beach Resort and Hotel, Anya Resort Tagaytay, Bayleaf Cavite, Club Balai Isabel, Hacienda Isabella, Pico Sands Hotel, Quest Hotel Tagaytay, Seda Nuvali, Summit Ridge Tagaytay, Taal Vista Hotel, The Farm at San Benito, Timberland Highlands Resort, and Twin Lakes Hotel.

The sale runs from September 1 to 30, 2024, via HSMA’s website – hsma.org.ph/sos For more information, visit or follow  @hsmaph on Facebook and Instagram.  

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-xxxx Series of 2024.

Featured photo: HSMA Board of Directors with Alfred Lay (center), Director of Hotels, Tourism & Leisure, Leechiu Property Consultants during the HSMA General Membership Meeting and September Sale media launch held at Sheraton Manila Bay.

 

#HSMA #SeptemberOnlineSale #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

SMX Convention Center Celebrates Grand Return of Culinaire 2024 Featuring 10 Partner Caterers

The largest convention center operator in the country SMX Convention Center marked the grand return of its signature culinary event, Culinaire last August 6, 2024 with the captivating theme “Flavor Flix.” Over a thousand guests enjoyed a unique dining experience showcasing the culinary excellence of 10 esteemed partner caterers with the thrilling flair of movies and series from popular streaming platforms.

Held in the expansive Function Rooms 3-5 of SMX Convention Center Manila, which together span a total venue space of 5,200 square meters, the event transformed the place into a vibrant culinary wonderland. All 10 caterers showcased their creativity and event styling inspired by a film of their choice. Guests had the chance to savor a full range of offerings, starting with free-flowing cocktails at the “Love Island” bar by Event Shakers, and a tantalizing set of appetizers, entrées, and desserts, from the rest of the caterers.

The partner caterers and their film adaptation themes were: BIZU with Bridgerton, CONRAD MANILA with Memoirs of a Geisha, The Creamery Catering with Queen Charlotte, Hizon’s Catering with The Bear, Via Mare with Maria Clara, Kitchen City with Squid Game, Tjioe Chew with Mulan, Juan Carlo with Stranger Things, M Catering with Avatar, and Event Shakers with Love Island.

The Creamery’s “Queen Charlotte” Presentation –
Inspired by the film series “Queen Charlotte,” The Creamery captivated guests with a regal display of culinary artistry at the 2024 Culinaire event.

 

Throughout the evening, guests also participated in the voting process to determine the People’s Choice Awards with categories: Best Appetizer, Best Entrée, and Best Dessert. Meanwhile, a panel of culinary experts conducted a blind tasting earlier in the night to determine their own top picks.

THE CREAMERY Afternoon Tea with Charlotte – Awarded “Best Dessert” by the panel of judges (Pistachio Tres Leches, Vanilla Mascarpone on white Chocolate Cup. Garnished with Strawberry Shavings and Edible Butterfly).

 

The winners were announced with much anticipation: Best Appetizer was awarded to The Creamery’s “The Queen’s Garden,” Best Entrée went to Juan Carlo’s “Vecna’s Enigma,” and Best Dessert was claimed by The Creamery’s “Afternoon Tea with Charlotte.” In the People’s Choice Awards, Juan Carlo swept all categories, earning top honors for their appetizers, entrées, and desserts, with their “Stranger Things” theme.

Opening the event, Mr. Michael Jaey Albaña, Vice President – General Manager of SMX Convention Center, highlighted the significance of Culinaire’s return after a long hiatus since 2019. It can be recalled that the previous years have been challenging for the MICE and events sector, caused by the pandemic. “Each offering is not just food but a story, a piece of art that showcases the ability and eagerness to elevate the experience of your event.” He noted that as the industry begins to recover robustly in 2024, this event represented a celebration of its resurgence.

As the premiere event venue operator in the country, SMX Convention Center continues to lead the industry in providing exceptional venues for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). However, as Albaña highlighted, Culinaire also exemplifies SMX’s flexibility in celebrating life’s important milestones, such as birthdays and weddings.

This year’s event was a remarkable collaboration between partner caterers and SMX-accredited event suppliers, including Black Tie Entertainment for the live band and DJ; Metrotech, CNS Events Solutions, FORSC INK INC, City Neon Philippines, Inc, Centrex, MSD Godspeed, Ginger Event Styling, RSL for lights and sound, GEV ME for the automated registration system, and STAGES as event organizers.

The evening was filled with exquisitely prepared dishes and top-notch entertainment, ensuring guests experienced the full magic of Flavor Flix.

#SMXCulinaire2024 #FlavorFlix #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Carlos Yulo: The Golden Boy of Philippine Gymnastics

Carlos Yulo’s remarkable achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics have not only elevated his personal standing but have also brought immense pride and honor to the Philippines. Securing double Olympic gold in artistic gymnastics is a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Congratulations to Carlos Yulo on this extraordinary accomplishment!

 

Despite his many trials in the sport, Carlos Edriel Yulo has shown unshaken dedication and unwavering determination that led him to his historic win in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Gymnastics was once a popular female sport, but Yulo’s win as a Filipino gymnast is historic as it is iconic, breaking gender stereotypes. His win had put gymnastics in the same spotlight as other sports like basketball and volleyball.

The playground

Journeys have to start somewhere. Caloy’s journey started small and unorthodox. He was seen happily tumbling in a playground by his grandfather, Rodrigo Francisco, who took Caloy to a nearby Rizal Memorial Complex to see if he would take a liking for gymnastics. “One time may lumapit sa amin na gymnast and may kaibigan din siya na nagturo sa amin. Tapos sinabi nila, bakit hindi kami sumali ng gymnastics doon sa may Rizal (Memorial Complex),” he said according to a Spin article in 2019.

His immediate display of talent showed remarkable promise.

The longer he trained, the fewer young gymnasts there were. Parents would pull their kids out of gymnastics, believing they would have no future in a sport like gymnastics. The Yulos, however, thought that the sport would open doors for Caloy.

Caloy as a young gymnast

As a young athlete, Caloy had already shown great talent in gymnastics, winning medals for different skills. In 2019 he started competing in the Palarong Pambansa — a multi-sport event for elementary to high school students nationwide. Representing the National Capital Region (NCR), he was part of the team that won gold, while claiming silver in floor exercise and fifth in individual all-around.

In 2013, Carlos Yulo moved up to junior-level competitions where he would earn more medals. He was coached by Allen Aldrin Castañeda who would eventually become his coach during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Training in Japan

As years passed, Caloy’s career opened many doors for him. In 2016, he was sent to train in Japan under Coach Munehiro Kugimiya and supported by the Federation Internationale Gymnastique and the MVP Sports Foundation who would then prepare his way at the senior level of international competitions.

Kugimiya trained Yulo to become an elite athlete. He became a head-turner at the 2018 Doha World Championships, earning a bronze medal in the floor exercise before winning a historic gold medal in the floor exercise at the 2019 World Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. This historic win was his ticket to the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.

His stay in Japan was quite an eventful time in his life and career. He encountered many issues concerning his love life, family, and career. Caloy’s girlfriend, Chloe San Jose, was partially blamed for his losses as fans deemed her a distraction in his training. Caloy denied this and said that Chloe served as part of his motivation. He directly credits Chloe saying, “Naturuan din kasi ako ng partner ko na mag-grow, dati puro gymnastics lang ang alam ko… siya ‘yung part ng motivation ko ‘pag ginagawa ko ‘yung gymnastics ko po.”

 

Carlos with his GF Chloe San Jose in Paris. Courtesy: Carlos Edriel Yulo FB

 

Caloy decided to part ways with his Japanese coach, sparking controversy over his career and relationship with his mentor. He then explained that the decision was of no ill intent but rather a decision he would make to further push his career as a gymnast. Despite netizens and fans calling Yulo an ingrate, the Japanese coach and his mentee would remain tension-less as Coach Kugimiya later expressed his pride for the Filipino athlete upon his win at the Olympics in Paris. Yulo eventually went back under the coaching of his then mentor Coach Castañeda.

Carlos Yulo and weightlifting champion Hidilyn Diaz paved the way for aspiring athletes to pursue their passion for any sport. He will remain the Philippines’ golden boy, earning two iconic Olympic gold medals for his beloved country.

Contributed by Dana Angela Belo

#CarlosYulo #Olympicgoldmedalist #Filipinoathlete #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

The 35th Philippine Travel Mart Focuses on Love the NextGen Tourism

The Philippines’ longest running travel fair  is back. Philippine Travel Mart will take place at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay from Sept. 6 to 8, bringing you great travel packages, deals and discounts so you can have more adventures across the country and abroad.

It’s a celebration of the beauty and culture of the Philippines. Through the years, the fair became popular for showcasing diverse destinations in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao with its grand regional pavilions.

Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), the 35th Philippine Travel Mart will bring together almost 300 tour operators, tourism offices, travel agencies, airlines, hotels, resorts in one event and they are ready to help make your travel dreams come true. The theme this year is Love the NextGen Tourism, signifying PHILTOA’s focus on the following tourism trends – Sustainability, Digitalization, Inclusivity, and Health and Wellness.

The Philippine Travel Mart is supported by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB). The TPB reaffirms its very strong support to contribute to its continued success in showcasing the Philippines as a world-class tourist destination.

“Our collaboration for this event is essential as tourism is one of the most vital contributors to the country’s economy. And this year’s Philippine Travel Mart comes at an opportune time to build on the momentum gained by the industry,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Margarita Nograles during the 35th Philippine Travel Mart media launch at the Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque. “Over the past few decades, we have witnessed how this event has sparked interest in various attractions across our 7,641 islands.

Nograles added that the travel fair has also been crucial to the development of the country’s MICE sector. Various establishments have discovered tourism products that take their meetings, incentive travels, conventions, and exhibitions to a whole new level. “This is very much in line with the goals of ‘MICE Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart,’ which aims to create a world-class MICE initiative with a stronger sales force, an empowered private sector, and the full support of the government- all encapsulated in the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence.”

Nograles also mentioned that globally, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability, and the tourism department is proud to be at the forefront of this movement in the Philippines.

“As tourism stakeholders, our commitment to preserving the natural and cultural treasures we promote drives our approach to sustainable practices. And this is best exemplified by the innovative pavilion design we will build at the Philippine Travel Mart. The pavilion will tell the wonderful stories of our country and our people, showcasing the creativity and resourcefulness that define Filipino ingenuity. The materials of the structure will then be upcycled to the TPB office, ensuring nothing goes to waste. This is a testament to our ability to balance growth with environmental stewardship, so future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our country,” said Nograles.

Megaworld Hotels & Resorts Team with TPB COO Margarita Nograles.

 

Last year, the Philippine Travel Mart drew approximately 60,000 travelers and visitors in search of their next adventures.

The three-day fair is your chance to book highly popular destinations and perhaps your old favorites but it’s also a great opportunity to discover new corners of the country to fall in love with.

How much of the Philippines have you already explored? Last year, attendees got the chance to  book tour packages from all corners of the Philippines, including  the Spratly Islands and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. This year, a number of exhibitors will also sell packages to popular  international destinations—Asia, the US, Europe and Australia as well..

Visit philtravelmart.com, email philtravelmart@philtoa.com and follow @philtravelmart on Facebook and Instagram.

 

#35thPhilippineTravelMart #Philippines #TPB #DOT #MargaritaNograles #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Build Your Intelligent Home

Globe AT HOME has partnered with XIAOMI, a global leader in accessible quality technology, to bring exclusive online offers catering to the needs of modern Filipino households.

Together with XIAOMI’s innovative devices, Globe AT HOME aims to provide the best value for fiber connectivity that helps build intelligent homes and enhance the digital experience of its customers.

Until August 31, new GFiber Prepaid subscribers will receive a P500 XIAOMI voucher with every successful application. This initiative provides affordable and reliable internet solutions while granting access to XIAOMI’s wide range of intelligent devices.

Follow this simple process to get the e-gift certificate:

  • Redeem the promo code via Globe Rewards, no points required. Search “P500 XIAOMI voucher with NEW GFiber Prepaid Application” in the Rewards catalog.
  • Alternatively, find the promo code on marketing materials available on https://XIAOMIstoreph.com/, the official XIAOMI Facebook page, and select XIAOMI authorized  stores nationwide.
  • Enter the promo code in the “referral code” field when applying for GFiber Prepaid.To apply, simply go to globe.com.ph or the GlobeOne app.
  • Receive the P500 XIAOMI voucher via SMS within three business days of installation.

GFiber Prepaid boasts numerous benefits, including high-speed internet up to 50 Mbps for as low as P23 per day over 30 days, reloadable UNLI Internet with no monthly bills, no contract, and a quick installation process within 24 hours.

Existing Globe AT HOME subscribers are also in for a treat with a 10% discount on select XIAOMI items.

The process to claim this discount is straightforward:

  • Redeem and get the registration link via Globe Rewards without needing any Rewards points. Search for “10% discount on XIAOMI” in the Rewards catalog.
  • Register your Globe AT HOME account details, whether GFiber Plan postpaid or GFiber Prepaid, in the provided form.
  • Within 5-7 business days, XIAOMI will send instructions via email to access the exclusive page offering the discount.

“We are committed to bringing the best value and technology to our customers. Through our partnership with XIAOMI, we aim to empower more households with high-quality internet and cool devices, making intelligent homes a reality for many Filipinos,” said Abigail Cardino, VP and Head of Brand Management for Globe’s Broadband Business.

“XIAOMI is excited to partner with Globe AT HOME to bring our innovative and practical technology to Filipinos, making their daily lives more convenient and enjoyable,” said Tomi Adrias, Head of Marketing at XIAOMI Philippines.

 #PanahonNa para sa mabilis at sulit na UNLI Internet! Apply through https://gfiberprepaid.globe.com.ph/ or the Globe One app to begin creating an intelligent home.

#GlobeATHOME #Xiaomi  #rubyspreciousmoments  #rubyasoyph

 

Posted on

Over 1,000 Execs Attend FinTech Alliance Ph’s Manila Tech Summit

Over a thousand attendees join the annual summit organized by FinTech Alliance Ph, the country’s premier association for financial technology and digital innovators. This year’s theme, “AI Unlocked: Shaping Our Digital Future,” addresses the multifaceted impact of artificial intelligence on the finance industry, infrastructure, regulations, digital marketing, labor force, education, healthcare, and more.

The summit was opened by the organization’s Founding Chairman Lito Villanueva, who emphasized the responsibility of leaders to tackle critical issues such as deep fakes, digital security, and workplace evolution. “Together, we renewed our commitment to make finance accessible to all Filipinos and propel the country toward becoming an AI-ready nation,” he stated.

He also shared five key developments made by the organization over the past couple of years which are:

  1. The Philippine fintech sector achieved the government’s growth goals ahead of the target set by NEDA for 2028.
  2. Last year’s Bagong Pilipinas pavilion showcased various Philippine fintech players during the Singapore Fintech Festival, and plans are in place to do it again this year, 2024.
  3. Fintech Alliance PH is one of the 14 fintech organizations in Asia that pioneered and founded the Asia Fintech Alliance to enhance regional collaboration.
  4. The continuous growth of Fintech Alliance PH in membership, which is now composed of over 100 corporate members, and future initiatives aimed at enhancing its representation.
  5. Fintech Alliance PH remains a significant government partner in governance and compliance. The organization recently won the 2024 Cybersecurity Innovation Award for the Philippines at the Banking and Finance Wholesale Banking Awards for its 2023 campaign, #WagMagpalokoMagingScamAlerto, a campaign to educate consumers on digital scams and crimes.

A key focus of the discussions centered on AI’s innovation potential, with an emphasis on safe risk management and responsible usage. Chuchi G. Fonacier, Deputy Governor of the Financial Sector at Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), shared, “While the BSP recognizes the significance of AI, our focus must remain on responsible usage. Exciting times await, but we need to be vigilant.” FinTech Alliance Ph aims to adapt Europe’s AI Act (2024), the first legal framework addressing AI risks, in a manner suited for the Philippines.

Kathy Mercado, president of the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), highlighted how they are leveraging AI in marketing by customizing ads and engaging customers with multilingual capabilities.

Arianne Ferrer, External Affairs Director of Tala Financing, described AI as a “wonderful tool” for increasing financial access for Filipinos. Similarly, Eugene Acevedo, CEO and President of RCBC, acknowledged the challenges of integrating AI while noting that “…for banks like us, customers come first, and technology helps us serve them better.”

Manila Tech Summit: Highlighted the transformative potential of AI across sectors.

 

In the field of education, Dr. Robby Galang, Dean of the Ateneo John Gokongwei School of Management, stressed that critical thinking regarding AI usage must become a priority. “We must teach students not just to answer questions but to evaluate information,” he noted.

In the healthcare sector, a panel featuring Quintin Pastrana (CEO of MWell), Dr. Regidor Encabo (President of the Philippine Society of Cardiovascular Catheterization and Interventions), Jason Jalandoni (President of NOVA Health), and Carl Ng (General Partner of Verge Health Tech Fund) concurred that while AI is a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool, human oversight and ethical considerations are paramount in its implementation.

The Manila Tech Summit highlighted the transformative potential of AI across sectors, advocating for responsible usage and innovation to shape the Philippines’ future. As industry leaders, educators, and stakeholders gathered to explore AI’s ability to enhance financial access, improve marketing strategies, and advance education, it became evident that collaboration and vigilance are vital in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Capping off day one, FinTech Alliance Ph hosted a mixer at Kao Manila, providing attendees with an opportunity to network and share ideas in an informal setting, further reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the summit.

#ManilaTechSummit #FinTechAlliancePH #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

2GO Launches Super Sulit 8.8 Sale for Padala Services and Travel Tickets

2GO, the Philippines’ leading sea travel and logistics provider, is thrilled to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Super Sulit 8.8 Sale! From August 8 to 31, 2024, this special promotion offers discounts on 2GO Express documents and parcel domestic deliveries, FedEx international shipping, and 2GO Travel tickets across all 2GO retail stores nationwide.

Customers can check out 10% discount when transacting at any official 2GO Retail Store for deliveries from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Deliveries within Metro Manila are available for as low as PHP 68. The deals also include international shipping from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with a 10% discount through FedEx, exclusively at official 2GO Retail Store—an excellent offer for online businesses.

Additionally, book your next getaway with 2GO Travel’s exciting discounts, starting at only PHP 199. Experience elevated sea travel with 2GO’s exciting onboard amenities such as cafes, a sundeck, and an overall hotel-like experience. Fares are inclusive of a 50kg baggage allowance.

Customers are encouraged to visit their nearest 2GO branch to take advantage of these fantastic deals before they end on August 31, 2024.

 About 2GO Group Inc.:

2GO GROUP, INC. enables the movement of goods and people throughout the Philippines. It is the largest point-to-point transportation and logistics provider in the country. At its core are five business units, namely 2GO Sea Solutions, 2GO Special Containers and Value-Added Services (SCVASI), 2GO Express, 2GO Forwarding and 2GO Logistics.

A part of SM Investments Corporation, the country’s leading conglomerate, 2GO offers multimodal transportation, warehousing and inventory management, special containers, and project logistics as well as e-commerce logistics, including last-mile deliveries, and express courier deliveries. 2GO also provides sea travel, and a wide range of peripheral logistics such as freight forwarding, import and export processing, and customs brokerage. 2GO leverages on all its services to create unique supply chain solutions for all its customers.

Backed by 148 years of expertise in transportation and logistics, 2GO has made a mark for providing the best travel experiences, efficient movement of products and cargoes, and for catalyzing business growth in domestic and international markets.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

#2GO #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Posted on

Get Your Zing On at the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel

Hey friends! Ready to ditch the daily grind and dive into an experience that’ll totally boost your mood? Swing by the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel at C1 Park, Bonifacio High Street Central (right in front of Shake Shack) from August 2-4, 2024, 2-10 PM. This is the ultimate escape from life’s little annoyances—whether it’s being ghosted by your crush, dealing with office drama, or facing that cringe-worthy credit card bill.

Here’s What’s Poppin’ Inside the Tunnel:

Refresh-Zing Area: Kick off with FREE ice-cold samples of Fruity Zing’s bomb Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors. Perfect for a sweet pick-me-up or a zesty burst!

Zing Zone: Dive into epic games and interactive experiences that’ll lift your vibe. Show off your zest at the Just Zing corner—say “Ziiiing” in 25 seconds and win free Fruity Zing bottles! Plus, flex those memory skills at the MemoriZing activity to score more Fruity Zing freebies!

MemoriZing Inside the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel at Bonifacio High Street.

Gen Zing Photo Booth: Capture your refreshed and ZING-ed self with a free printed photo and share your Zing-tastic moments!

Cool Vibes: Chill out with strategically placed fans and misters keeping things cool and comfy while you explore.

Fruity Zing: Not just a drink, it’s your go-to mood booster! With real fruit juices and only PHP 25 SRP, enjoy the epic Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors that keep you fresh and motivated to crush your goals.

Just Zing Inside the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel at Bonifacio High Street.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Share your adventure on social media with #FruityZing and #ExperienZINGnow to spread the good vibes. If you can’t make it, catch us next at Hydro Manila on August 24, 2024!

Find the Del Monte Fruity Zing at nearby convenience stores and supermarkets! No time to shop? No problem—grab it online on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop! Ditch the boring and level up your vibe with Del Monte Fruity Zing!

#DelMonteFruityZingTunnel #FruityZing #ExperienZINGnow #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph