Tuesday, January 31, 2023
SM Supermalls continues to demonstrate its value as key socio-economic partner to the province as it opens its doors to local contractors.SM Supermalls in North Luzon region is in search for potential Local Contractors who are willing to join the Technical World of SM Engineering, Design, and Development. Covering SM Malls from Tuguegarao to Grand Central in Caloocan, SMEDD in North Luzon invites contractors handling MEPFS, Civil, Architectural, General Construction and all sorts of new innovation to join the company.
Applying is easy. Interested contractors may send their requirements online to SM EDD at kasandra.lopez@sm-edd.com, phil.undayag@smsupermalls.com, charity.gicale@smsupermalls.com, christine.olalia@smsupermalls.com on or before February 6, 2023. Requirements include letter of intent, duly issued license by the Philippine Contractors Accredited Board, DTI or SEC business registration, valid business and/or Mayor’s permit and relevant experience in rendering service to top Philippine Business and/or multinational corporation. Walk in contractors are also welcome to apply at #Supportlocalcontractors caravan on February 7 and 8. #Supportlocalcontractors caravan starts from 10am to 4pm at SM City Pampanga.
SM Engineering Design & Development or SM EDD is the architectural and engineering arm of SM Group’s Retail and Mall properties that specializes in design, development, constructions, modernization, and maintenance of SM-owned malls and other commercial properties.
To all OPPO fans, ready your wallets for the second double double sale of the year! As Valentine’s Day approaches, take advantage of OPPO’s 2.2 sale and treat yourself and your loved ones to some new devices. From February 2 to 6, enjoy great discounts and freebies when you purchase your dream gadgets in-store or online.
Amazing freebies on your purchases
OPPO’s popular value-for-money line, the A-Series, comes with free gifts during this sale period. Purchase the sleek OPPO A16k and get a free memory card. With a long-lasting battery and a 6.52-inch HD + eye-care screen, you can enjoy video chats and your favorite shows on a wide screen anywhere.
Apart from that, the OPPO A55 also comes with a free remote-controlled selfie stick when you purchase during the sale, so you can make the most of its 16MP ultra clear selfie-camera and the ultra-lasting 5000mAh battery for all day content.
Apart from these, you also have the option to purchase the A95 in the classic OPPO Glow design with a G25 Sports earphones freebie. The OPPO A95 brings you all the power you need to accomplish all your to-do’s with its 5000mAh battery and 33W Flash Charge capabilities, 8GB+128GB RAM expansion for no lags, and a 48MP AI camera.
The freebies do not stop there! For Reno fans, OPPO’s Portrait Expert also offers great treats for you. Purchase any OPPO Reno5 Series or Reno6 Series smartphone and get a free Neon Island Deskpad to complete your aesthetic workspace at home or in the office. If you are looking to make an upgrade, purchase #ThePortraitExpert smartphones under the Reno8 series and get a free Q9 Pro Smartwatch.
Exciting discounts in-store
If those freebies aren’t enough of a sign to purchase your dream OPPO gadgets, make sure to hit up the OPPO Official Stores this 2.2 sale. Enjoy up to 59% off on any purchases you make along with vouchers that can give you Php 200 off on your purchase with a minimum spend of Php 9,999 and Php 400 off with a minimum spend of Php 14,999.
Exclusive discounts and vouchers on Shopee and Lazada
For ecommerce shoppers, you can save on shipping fees with a free shipping voucher where you can get Php 50 off with a minimum purchase of Php 500 storewide. OPPO will also be on livestream on Shopee and Lazada so stay tuned to grab an exclusive voucher of Php 100 off on your purchases when you spend at least Php 4,999.
Exclusive for Shopee, you can enjoy a 10% off Shopee Mall voucher with any purchase capped at Php 500 when you purchase from the official OPPO store. Use SPayLater as your payment method and get 0% interest on any of these phones for up to 3 months from the date of your purchase: A16k, A16 4GB, A17, A55, A76, A95, Reno5 5G, Reno6 Z 5G, Reno6 5G, and Reno8 Z 5G.
For Lazada shoppers, take advantage of cashbacks with your OPPO purchases! Capped at Php 500, you can enjoy a 10% cashback when you purchase from the official OPPO store on LazMall. LazPayLater also gives you 0% interest installment for 45 days for any device you choose.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these great deals this February 2-6, 2023. Visit our OPPO Official Stores on Shopee and Lazada.
For more information on any of the OPPO devices, visit https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or check out OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. To get the best care for your OPPO devices, visit your nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.
Monday, January 30, 2023
Global smart device brand OPPO will be unveiling a new addition to their Reno Series in the Philippines, the OPPO Reno8 T. The powerful and all-new Portrait Expert is set to deliver all-around upgrades on camera, design, and performance, and will be officially introduced on February 8, 2023.
Innovative Triple Camera System with a 100MP main camera
Capture moments in clear detail with the new Portrait Expert, as the OPPO Reno8 T will be the first Reno series phone to include a 100MP Portrait Camera. The camera system also features a 32MP Selfie Camera and a 2MP Microlens with 20x or 40x magnification, another first in the Reno Series. With higher MP, OPPO fans can capture their everyday moments in brighter, clearer and more vivid detail. Meanwhile, the 40x magnification allows users to explore a microscopic world with details remaining as clear as ever.
All-new Premium Feel and Stylish Design
The upcoming OPPO Reno8 T will continue the brand’s philosophy of producing high-performing smartphones with trendy and elegant designs. Featuring Fiberglass-Leather texture – another first for the Reno Series – a vibrant Sunset Orange hue, and rounded edges, the slim, lightweight design offers a premium experience inspired by luxury leather goods. A Midnight Black variant, featuring the signature OPPO Glow design, will also be available. The OPPO Reno8 T also features an upgraded OPPO Orbit Light, which can be customized based on the user’s color preference.
Superior Performance for a Smooth Experience
To give users a smooth and seamless mobile phone experience, OPPO has integrated several improved features in the OPPO Reno8 T. It comes out of the box with the latest ColorOS13, which provides users convenient and user-friendly smart features, as well as security while using their mobile phone. The OPPO Reno8 T has also been tested to maintain 48-Month Fluency, allowing users to enjoy their Portrait Expert for up to four years without slowing down.
Boosting the all-around entertainment experience, the OPPO Reno8 T comes with flagship dual stereo speakers and Ultra Volume Mode to immerse users in their games and videos.
The OPPO Reno8 T also comes with 5000mAh battery and 33W SUPERVOOC charging technology, which powers up the gadget to 100% in just 67 minutes. Users can also expect 8GB RAM plus 256GB ROM, as well as OPPO’s RAM Expansion technology.
Coming Soon
The all-new Portrait Expert, the OPPO Reno8 T, will be launched in the Philippines on February 8, 2023. Stay tuned to https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or check out OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok for more information.
Hala Bira! Lifestyle columnist Tessa Prieto, TV Personality Tim Yap, and broadcaster Karen Davila at the Dinagyang Exhibit with SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.A “complete success” was how he described the festival’s return to a face-to-face celebration after two years of restrictions due to the coronavirus disease pandemic.
“Everyone wanted a strong comeback…It was a complete success and this showed that Dinagyang and our Sto. Niño is beyond politics,” added Treñas.
The special guests were seen enjoying the Ilomination night at SM City Iloilo with Mayor Jerry Treñas, SM’s SVP for Operations Bien Mateo, Talent Manager Jojie Dingcong, Youtube celebrity Small Laude,veteran broadcaster Karen Davila, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, philanthropist and influencer Tessa Prieto, eventologist Tim Yap, Manila Bulletin’s Arnel Patawaran and Chef Tibong Jardeleza IIIDinagyang Festival is known far and wide for its participants’ impressive choreography and striking costumes that reflect Ilonggo ingenuity, craftsmanship, and artistry.
Treñas congratulated the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI), organizer of Dinagyang 2023, the participating tribes and corporate sponsors, among others.
(From left to right) House Speaker Martin Romualdez, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas during the Dinagyang Dance Competition at the Iloilo Freedom GrandstandThe festival’s top sponsor was SM City Iloilo; it also served as a venue for many Dinagyang activities, including the first-ever Dinagyang Ilomination on Jan.21, Batchoy Festival, festival costumes exhibit, and concert of various performing artists including Asia’s Pop Heartthrob Darren Espanto, among others.
Conversation over Batchoy with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas, SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, lifestyle columnist and philanthropist Tessa Prieto, TV personality Tim Yap, veteran broadcaster Karen Davila, Manila Bulletin’s Arnel Patawaran and renowned Iloilo Chef, Rafael “Tibong” Jardeleza IIIThe festivities were graced by no less than First Lady of the Philippines Atty. Liza Araneta Marcos and some prominent government officials including House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senators Risa Hontiveros, Jinggoy Estrada, Mark Villar, Francis Tolentino, Bong Revilla, former senator Franklin Drilon, among others. YouTube sensation Small Laude, broadcast journalist Karen Davila, lifestyle columnist and philanthropist Tessa Prieto Valdez, television presenter and entrepreneur Tim Yap were also there to join the festivities. They were warmly welcomed by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.
Several dignitaries form foreign embassies attended the festivities as well: Romanian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Raduta Dana Matache with Mr. Constantin Matache ; Indonesian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Agus Widjojo and his wife, Mme. Ranny Agus Widjojo; Royal Thai Ambassador to the Philippines HE Tull Traisorat; Royal Norwegian Ambassador to the Philippines HE Christian Halaas Lyster; Hungary Ambassador to the Philippines HE Titanilla Toth; Embassy of Polland Ambassador to the Philippines HE Jaroslaw Szczepankiewicz ; Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Charge d’Affaires, a.i. Ms. P.G.P. Kaushalya; Consul General of Japan in Cebu Hideki Yamaji; and Embassy of the United States in the Philippines Chief Consuls Kristofer Graf and Leo Balantac;Dinagyang is the Hiligaynon word for revelry or “merrymaking.” The festival is Iloilo City’s version of the Ati-atihan celebrations widely observed not only in Panay Island but also in other parts of the country.
Two of the many foreign dignitaries who graced the festival were full of praises.
Sunday, January 29, 2023
UNIQLO Philippines and SM Foundation, Inc. came together to upgrade four health centers in Bulacan – namely the Pulilan Rural Health Units (RHU) 1 and 2, as well as Baliwag RHU 1 and 3 last January 17, 2023.
The centers were improved to provide Bulakeños in the area easy access to health care services. These centers commonly treat skin rashes, urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections, and other lifestyle illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes.
The facilities also provide family planning, maternal and child health care, and treatments to prevent or control acute respiratory infection, cardiovascular diseases, tuberculosis, diarrheal diseases, and AIDS/STD. Baliwag RHU 3, meanwhile, has the capacity to perform childbirth delivery and minor surgeries.
They also springboard national health programs on leprosy, rabies, dengue prevention, immunization, and nutrition, making health services accessible to the community.
To respond to their specialized needs, the collaboration rebuilt the facilities and reconstructed its layout to aptly place a modern reception area, lounge, breastfeeding area, cold chain storage area, pharmacy, laboratory, treatment room, OPD consultation room, dental clinic, sputum collection area, and TB DOTS and Animal Bites Centers.
There are also nurses' rooms and doctors' consultation rooms to enable frontline health workers to provide medical care in a conducive environment.
The centers are fully air-conditioned and feature rooms equipped with new chairs and tables, cabinets, medicines, fixtures, medical tools, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs.
Beyond this, SM Foundation and UNIQLO also provided Emergency GoKit+ to each of the centers to ensure they can readily respond to untoward incidents, such as accidents and calamities.
The four newly upgraded facilities are also fitted with Mobile Play Cabinets containing interactive toys and educational books. These cabinets are positioned in the lounges to welcome young patients in a child-friendly environment and give them a holistic healing experience.
During the event, representatives from SM Foundation and UNIQLO talked about the collaboration and their respective missions to uplift the lives of Filipinos, especially those in grassroots communities.
“Ang aming pilosopiya o gabay sa paggawa ng damit ay ang tinatawag na lifewear. Ito po ang paniniwala na ang mga damit ay maaaring magbigay ng magandang buhay sa pang araw-araw. Layunin naming mapaganda ang buhay ng mga Pilipino. Kami po ay tumutulong sa mga komunidad sa pamamagitan ng aming mga produkto at proyekto. Kaya kami ay nagagalak, sa tulong ng SM Foundation at SM Supermalls, ngayong araw na ito na ibahagi sa inyo ang mga health centers para mapanatili ang ating kalusugan lalo na sa mga panahong ito,” UNIQLO Vice President for Marketing Georgette Jalasco said.
“For us, social good goes beyond charitable giving. For us, it represents dedication to supporting our communities so they can achieve sustainable growth and development. It means giving them the opportunity to take hold of their own destiny, allowing them to move towards progress, and empowering them to have safe, healthy and productive lives,” SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Wellness Connie Angeles said.
SM Foundation, through its Health and Medical Programs, upgrades public health centers in its host communities, complemented by its medical caravans across the country. To date, it has renovated more than 170 health and wellness centers and served more than 1.1 million patients during its medical missions.
Saturday, January 28, 2023
The P-Pop quintet’s new banger welcomes 2023 with an upbeat club anthem
After earning rave reviews for their Y2K-indebted track “Dalawa,” KAIA marks another creative triumph for P-Pop with the release of another banger under Sony Music Entertainment.
The Filipino girl group’s new single “Turn Up” unabashedly displays their signature brand of sass while reviving the bold, explosive sounds of early 2010’s dance-pop.
The release of “Turn Up” comes with a music video (performance version) directed by Denny Lee and Jake Jung. The visuals find KAIA performing the track with a synchronized choreography.
“Because it’s upbeat and danceable, we thought a party concept will best for it, so people could have fun whenever they hear Turn Up,” KAIA shares in a collaborative statement. “We want our listeners to feel good as they vibe with the song.”
The catchy track was written by KAIA themselves, and helmed by acclaimed K-Pop producer Lee Oh Won, who has done impressive work for international artists such as Stray Kids, SHINee’s Taemin, TVXQ, SB19, and more.
As pointed out by the five-member act, “Turn Up” is an escapist anthem about setting one’s worries aside for the time being and taking pleasure in moments that call for fun and adventure.
“We got so busy stressing out about things that we couldn’t control,” says the Blah Blah quintet. “This song somehow encourages listeners to break away from the mold, live in the moment, and let their body groove into the music. Sometimes all you need is to disconnect from the outside world and be yourself.”
“Turn Up” will also be part of KAIA’s debut EP to be released in the coming months. The song will be performed live at the Pinoy Pop Convention 2023 (PPOPCON), an ultimate fan gathering and celebration of Filipino pop culture and music.
KAIA’s “Turn Up” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide. Watch the music video (performance version) here.
Friday, January 27, 2023
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(L-R) GCash Chief Marketing Officer Neil Trinidad, GCash Head of Commercial Sales and Operations Luigi Reyes, GCash Chief Commercial Officer Ren-Ren Reyes, GrabFin Philippines President Martha Elaine Borja, Head of GrabPay Philippines Cris Alcaraz, and Grab Philippines Country Marketing Head Justine Anne Aruta
MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 26 January 2023 - Paying for your ride and food orders will soon be easier and hassle-free as the country’s leading mobile wallet GCash partners with Grab Philippines, the country’s leader in transportation and deliveries.
The landmark partnership will give Grab users access to the easiest, most convenient, and secure cashless transactions when they add GCash as a direct payment method on the Grab app. GCash will be officially available as a mode of payment on the Grab platform by February.
Through this partnership, users can simply choose GCash as their payment method, and pay cashless for GrabCar, GrabFood, GrabMart, GrabExpress and other Grab services with just a few taps on their smartphones. Moreover, this partnership enables users to avoid transfer fees which go as high as Php 50.
“With this partnership, we once again realize our commitment to make the lives of Filipinos better each day by delivering a more convenient, secure, and cost-efficient way to pay for their rides and food and grocery deliveries. We look forward to this partnership and we will continuously innovate and build more partnerships that will improve the lives of the Filipinos”, said GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon.
To make their cashless transactions more convenient and rewarding, customers of Grab also get to avail of GCash exclusive deals, and get special treats when they pay for their transactions using GCash.
Country Head of Grab Philippines Grace Vera Cruz shared, “Grab Philippines is dedicated to empowering our stakeholders in a digital-first economy, and key to this is driving a deeper and wider cashless adoption in the country. With more Filipinos transacting via cashless means, we are accelerating our prospects of digital transformation. We look forward to collaborating with like-minded partners such as GCash on this agenda, and we are optimistic that through this partnership, we can improve the lives and livelihoods of many of our kababayans, while building a cashless, digital-first economy for all Filipinos.”
Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading superapp for ride hailing, food delivery, and on-demand grocery delivery. It touts strong foothold in markets like the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Prior to this development, GCash and Grab have already established a strategic collaboration. Their initial partnership has provided Filipinos safe, seamless, and secure digital experience by allowing users to transfer money from their GCash wallet to their GrabPay wallet, and vice-versa.
Building on GCash and Grab’s shared mission of addressing Filipinos’ daily needs, this partnership also helps in creating a more cash-lite and digitally driven economy.
As part of its vision of achieving “Finance for All”, GCash will continue to innovate and establish partnerships to offer affordable, convenient and safe services – making Filipino lives better every day and beyond, in the new normal.
Clara Benin
2022 has been a great year for Clara Benin. Aside from getting featured on a Times Square billboard in New York ahead of International Women’s Day, the folk darling received two nominations at the recently concluded 8th Wish Music Awards and collaborated with international artists such as British singer-songwriter Lowswimmer. On top of her achievements, Benin also dropped a song called “Affable Dork,” which garnered rave reviews for “adopting a jazz-pop approach.”
This year is no different for the prolific act, as she continues to delight Clarafied (her official fans club) with her remarkable consistency. Benin opens 2023 with a soothing tune that revels in the idea of ‘what ifs’ and how it often sparks curiosity and wonder. Her new single, “different…“ draws inspiration from a rom-com classic, a common theme among her last few releases.
“I wrote this song after being inspired by the movie, When Harry Met Sally,” Benin admits. “My song “different…” is about having a really good friendship with someone and wondering if you two could take that relationship somewhere different.”
In “different…,” Clara Benin takes a familiar musical route without losing the riveting earnestness of the subject. As expected, the FIlipino singer-songwriter has mastered the art of subtlety, and on “different,” it’s here to stay: beautifully woven as if it’s an integral part of Benin’s identity as an artist.
The track is produced by Francis Lorenzo and Gabba Santiago, with her dad Joey Benin playing fretless bass. Clara initially recorded the vocals and guitars of the song in her dad’s studio in December 2021, during the time when she visited her family in her hometown. The rest, as they say, is history.
“We went for a more stripped-down instrumentation so we could really highlight the lyrics,” reveals the talented singer-songwriter. “I really wanted to play around with more organic sounds. Majority of the percussive sounds that you hear in this song are actually just Gabba tapping on random things around my studio.”
Check out Clara Benin’s “different…” is on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE.
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Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Kai Buzon
Filipina singer-songwriter Kai Buizon marks her official arrival in the local music scene with the release of “The Meadow,” her debut single under Sony Music Entertainment.
Her folk-pop track brings to mind the picturesque view of the countryside, with soothing vocals that thrive within the realm of summer nostalgia and first love.
According to Buizon, “The Meadow” was meant to be arranged to evoke nostalgia inspired by tracks that shaped her generation’s childhood years, including The Legend of Zelda’s “Great Fairy’s Fountain Theme” or Disney’s “A Whole New World” from Aladdin (1992). The intricately dreamy tune was produced by One Click Straight’s Tim Marquez and Gabba Santiago, both remarkable musicians who are known for their stellar work with artists such as Ena Mori and Clara Benin.
“Brainstorming with Gabba about the structure and direction of the track flowed so easily,” says the talented newcomer. “We met up at a coffee shop and basically had the entire song mapped out after just an hour. He was really able to capture the acoustic features of the song as well as the ‘homey’ authenticity that I was shooting for. With Tim, he was able to enhance the dreamy, magical aspect of the track with the more electronic or processed production components. I also appreciate how he added a second guitar to support my own arrangement.”
Written and performed by Kai Buizon, “The Meadow” is a song that encapsulates the hesitations, uncertainties, insecurities, and ‘what-ifs’ that brew before completely giving into a romantic confession. Beautifully delivered with emotional vulnerability, it feels lackadaisical in the best possible way. The track works either as an intimate revelation, a deep sigh of relief, a teen romance fodder, without being made intentionally to cater to those fields.
“I imagine a lot of people tend to feel afraid, or at the very least, hesitant, when it comes to approaching the unfamiliar, such as falling in love for the first time,” Buizon reflects. “Anyways, long story short, I called that mental space a meadow. And as my fellow romantics may already be familiar with, the meadow is also a prevalent symbol in classic literature of a place where lovers meet. So, basically, I wrote ‘The Meadow’ to encapsulate this whirlwind of feelings that comes before revealing that you’re actually in love with the other person.”
The promising solo act expressed her gratitude to Nico Pascal, who arranged the demo that she sent to Sony Music Entertainment. Buizon reveals, “he was the first person to see the track’s potential, and his enthusiasm really helped in motivating me to present the song.”
Kai Buizon’s “The Meadow” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Manifest luck in 2023 and celebrate the Year of the Water Rabbit at SM Center Pulilan. This year’s Lunar New Year celebration exudes joy and fortune with the festivities, colorful performances, and delightful attractions at the mall. Capture some IG-worthy photos or take a peek at what is to come at the Zodiac Forecast Panels found inside the Year of the Rabbit centerpiece. Also check out SM Hypermarket’s classic Chinese favorites like tikoy, hopia, and other delicacies for a prosperous Year of the Rabbit celebration. Prepare for a feast as participating food tenants will offer promos and meal bundles for friends and family, while lucky charms, lanterns, and other Year of the Rabbit-inspired merchandise can be found at selected stores in SM Center Pulilan.
Tuesday, January 24, 2023
More wins for the Jollibee Group, as four of its brands made it to the list of America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains for 2023. Newsweek, a premier news magazine and website, together with global data firm Statista, named Jollibee, Chowking, Smashburger, and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (CBTL) as among the best in their selected categories.
“We are honored that our brands are included in this list of most favorite restaurant chains in the United States. We thank our customers for their continued support, resulting in this citation that inspires us even more in our mission of serving great-tasting food, bringing the joy of eating to everyone,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group President and CEO.
The 2023 ranking was determined based on the results of an independent survey among over 4,000 customers and employees of restaurant chains in the United States. The respondents were asked to indicate which restaurant chains would they recommend among three ethnic cuisines and 13 dish categories.
The three ethnic cuisines include Chinese, Italian, and Tex-Mex; while the 13 dish categories consist of BBQ, burgers, chicken, coffee/tea/baked goods, ice cream/frozen yogurt, juice and smoothies, noodles and ramen, pizza, sandwiches, seafood, soup, steak, and Sushi.
Jollibee was cited in the chicken category, Smashburger for burgers, CBTL for tea and coffee, and Chowking for Chinese cuisine category.
According to Statista, all ratings were transformed into a score value and aggregated towards a final score. The survey respondents rated their experience with the restaurant chains using these nine assessment criteria: taste, cleanliness, hygiene and COVID-19 measures, transparency about ingredients, location, dealing with environmental issues, accessibility, service quality, and treatment of employees.
To receive an award, a restaurant chain needed to receive a minimum number of recommendations and an overall score of at least 7 out of 10. In addition, a restaurant chain was required to have at least three locations across different cities within at least two U.S. states.
Philippine brand Tanduay has partnered with Weisshaus, a leading distributor of international spirits, to bring the brand to Austria– making it the first Asian rum brand to enter the country.
Andreas Osler, Weisshaus Managing Director, said they see Tanduay’s enormous potential in their market.
“In our experience, rum connoisseurs in Austria generally like to experiment and are constantly on the lookout for new rums. Asian rums, in particular, are currently very popular, as they are also seen as an expression of the Asian way of life and nightlife, which is very trendy in this country,” he shared.
Rum is the second most popular among spirits in Austria and is consumed more frequently than whisky.
“Rum is enjoyed both at home and in bars and restaurants,” Osler said.
Tanduay President and COO Lucio Tan III shared that the brand’s entry into more European countries is an exciting new chapter in its 168-year-old history.
“It is a great time for Tanduay as we bring our Philippine-made rums to more countries that have a rich spirits culture. With Weisshaus as our partner, we believe that we will reach more customers in Austria,” he said.
Great Potential as a Sipping Rum, Perfect for Cocktails
Osler shared that the Tanduay Double Rum, one of the brand’s most-awarded products, impressed their team the most. They were surprised that no sugar was added during its production.
“It can become a serious competitor for leading rum brands in the premium rum segment in Austria. We see great potential in this rum to position it as a pure sipping rum,” he said.
The Tanduay Asian Rum Gold, Tanduay Asian Rum Silver, and Especia Spiced Rum, meanwhile, are perfect for mixing with trendy cocktails.
“They have what it takes to capture significant market shares from leading rum brands,” Osler pointed out.
Capturing the Austrian Rum Market
Osler shared that for Tanduay to gain a foothold in the Austrian rum market, they need to let consumers know the brand through “liquid to lips.”
To achieve this, Weishauss will bring Tanduay to trade fairs where they could give samples or hold tasting events and master classes.
“Among other things, we plan to offer Tanduay tasting samples in our shop. Due to the excellent quality of Tanduay rums, we assume that the initial spark for Tanduay’s success will have been given after this introductory phase,” he said.
Growing Global Presence
With its entry into Austria, Tanduay is steadily bringing its products to more European countries. In the past two years, it has already entered the markets of Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom.
Tanduay is also available in 11 U.S. states and the territory of Guam, the United Arab Emirates, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Singlife Philippines may be the new kid on the block, but it’s definitely not playing around. In just two years, the company has been able to give clients a full range of alternatives to save & protect their financial future. Protecting your income from disability or death, shielding customers from high medical costs, and preparing parents for the high costs of Children’s education – all these can now be done in just a matter of minutes on your mobile phone via GCash, the country’s largest e-wallet.
With a client base of more than 100,000 clients, Singlife Philippines has proven to be the alternative the market has been waiting for. The company received an excellent rating from customers on the customer review platform, Trustpilot. Customers cited having transparent products that are good value for money, easy claims handling, and customer service that offers solutions fast as reasons for the Company’s excellent ratings.
“Singlife Philippines offers a better way to save for, plan, and protect the financial future of every Juan and Maria. Research has shown that the upcoming middle income class understand the value of being financially protected and prepared, but they felt uncomfortable talking to an agent or sales representative in a bank,” said Rien Hermans, CEO of Singlife Philippines. “Customers feel intimidated, monthly premiums are above their available budget, and benefits and charges are unclear, all leading to unpleasant experiences and frequently a financial loss.”
To answer what clients indicated they looked for, Singlife Philippines built a new business model from the ground up with the main objective of meeting the client’s needs and alleviating most, if not all of the pains that they experienced in finding suitable solutions from the traditional life insurance industry.
Singlife Philippines’ products are geared towards the main worries that people shared during research: not being able to provide for the family after the loss of the main income earner; being confronted with an illness in the family that incurred large hospital bills and being ready for times when extra money is needed for fulfilling big goals. With this information, Singlife Philippines developed new propositions and partnered with GCash to make Fuss-free insurance available to many Filipinos.
Cash for Income Loss for example provides monthly cash benefits to families so that they can sustain their lifestyle in case the main income earner is unable to work due to disability or death. The minimal amount of PHP 289* a month already protects the family with 3 years of monthly pay-outs of PHP 30,000/month.
Singlife Philippines’ medical cost protection products, which are most in demand, relieve the financial distress caused by high medical bills. Cash for Medical Costs pays for hospitalization and provides a cash benefit when diagnosed with any of the 125 covered critical conditions. For as little as PHP 600, you can already have your family protected against these unforeseen expenses.
Singlife Philippines’ latest offering, Cash for Goals (Education), is the company’s first investment-linked product. It was designed to help parents save and grow their money, so they can afford their child’s college education. Apart from supporting parents to save and grow their money, the product also ensures that the education fund is available in case the paying parent passes away. With just PHP 500 per month parents can already start building up their child’s Education Fund.
Apart from these products Singlife Philippines offers ‘starter’, budget-friendly products like the 3-in-1 Protection Plan, or Cash for Income Loss (Accidents). The 3-in-1 Protection plan offers coverage for hospital bills due to dengue, COVID-19, while Cash for Income Loss (Accidents) replaces your income in case you are unable to work due to disability or death incurred in an accident.
“All of our products are designed to be hassle-free to buy, manage, and claim; they can be adjusted to fit your needs and your budget; and they can be accessed anytime, anywhere through your GCash app. We are very proud of what we’ve achieved this year and excited about our future plans. Our target is to insure at least a million people in the Philippines, so there is still a long way to go.” furthered Hermans.
There is no slowing down, for Singlife Philippines! The company is continuously developing more solutions to support customers with a better way to save for, plan and protect their financial future.
Monday, January 23, 2023
From left: GCash head of sustainability CJ Alegre, WWF executive director Katherine Panganiban Custodio, GCash head of public affairs and CSR Mabel Niala and Globe Group chief sustainability and corporate communications officer Yoly Crisanto
In recognition of its outstanding environment conservation initiatives, GCash, the country’s no.1 mobile wallet app, was recently given the Philippines’ Corporate Partner Award by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) during a recent ceremony held at the Fairmont Hotel, Makati.
The annual awarding program recognizes the outstanding collaboration and dedication towards the holistic conservation of the Philippine environment to “Change the ending” for people and the planet.
“We’re honored to receive such a meaningful award as it shows we’re on the right track towards helping protect and conserve our environment,” said Martha Sazon, GCash president and CEO.
GCash’s six-year Forest Project with the WWF-Philippines for Nature in Ipo Watershed aims to successfully conduct assisted natural regeneration and enrichment planting of 220,000 trees in 550 hectares of degraded forests in Ipo Watershed, which provides about 96 percent of Metro Manila’s water supply.
In the first three years of the project, they were able to accomplish the planting and maintenance of 108,743 trees which include Yakal, Dungon, Narra, Palosapis, Kupang, Bignai, and 11 more native species.
The carefully planned species composition provides a healthy biodiversity index and greatly contributes to the assisted natural regeneration of the Ipo Watershed. Likewise, the planting and maintenance of these trees are crucial in protecting the watershed’s cover, and consequently, the water security in the country. Healthy forests in the watersheds also serve as natural filters that safeguard the quality of water.
Apart from its partnership with the WWF-Philippines, GCash has also initiated the GForest program. Within the app, users can plant virtual trees through green energy points, which can be earned through various cashless transactions like bank transfers on the app. In turn, GCash plants real trees on their behalf. To date, GCash has already planted more than 1 million trees and are aiming for 2.3 Million trees in 2023.
about GCash, visit www.gcash.com
Saturday, January 21, 2023
This 2023, say goodbye to the roaring tiger and usher in the spirited rabbit as you celebrate Chinese New Year at your favorite SM malls nationwide!
From January 9 to 22, SM Supermalls has lined up exciting activities and events for a prosperous Year of the Water Rabbit festivities. If you are up for some hoppin’ fun adventures, here are exclusive CNY deals for you to enjoy.
Share good luck over good food at SM
Chinese New Year will always be about family dining and spending time together. This month, indulge in a delicious dine-in experience at SM with the whole family and enjoy sumptuous Lucky Feast deals from participating tenants.
Have a stroll at the Lucky Park
Don’t miss out on the fun of strolling around SM Supermalls’ Lucky Park. Snap a photo with the whole family at the Bunny Family Photo Spot, or take selfies at the magnificent Money Trees and the lighted rabbits. You can also read through your luck this year with the Zodiac Forecast Panels or put your A-game on at the Lucky Finds Pop-Ups in the area to win CNY exclusive deals.
Witness a Lion and Dragon Dance
Who would want to miss a signature lion dance during the Chinese New Year? At SM, lion and dragon dance performers will go around the mall to get all the lucky hanging hong baos. Catch them perform live from January 13 to 22!
Usher in good fortune this year with tips from a Feng Shui expert!
When it comes to Feng Shui, SM Supermalls knows how you can harness the positive energy that the new year brings. And with the help of Feng Shui expert, Ms. Marites Allen, you’ll surely discover what 2023 has in store for you.
Just present a minimum SM receipt worth Php 1,000 to get a chance to talk to her in person in the following malls:January 14, 2PM – SM City Olongapo Central
January 15, 2PM – SM City San Lazaro
January 19, 2PM – SM City Fairview
January 20, 2PM – SM City Dasmariñas
January 20, 5PM – SM City Sta. Rosa
January 2 1, 2PM – SM Megamall
January 21, 5PM – SM City North EDSA
January 22, 2PM – SM City Bacoor
January 22, 5PM – SM Mall of Asia
Scan and win amazing prizes in this AR hunt game
Test your luck at the Lucky Rabbit Hunt in SM malls! Join this AR hunt game by opening the app on your mobile device. Hunt for the triggers, scan the area, and catch lucky rabbits all around the mall with your family and friends.
As the Year of the Water Rabbit predicts hope this 2023, SM Supermalls wishes their shoppers longevity, peace, and prosperity this Chinese New Year. So, hop on luck and enjoy all these CNY-themed activities safely and conveniently at your favorite SM Mall!
Friday, January 20, 2023
Jarlo BaseBy Carissa Alcantara
Filipino artist Jarlo Bâse deftly incorporates contemporary pop, R&B, gospel, and alternative music influences with haunting soundscapes on his new single “O Sana, Hosanna”—out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
The song draws listeners to its emotionally powerful narrative while making great strides in songwriting and production.
According to the talented music act, the concept of his new track came from his filmmaker/choreographer friend Jobert Lachica.
Who pitched a story about the cycle of abuse and being abused, or, in the words of Charles Eads, the theme surrounding the phrase “hurt people hurt people.”
“So, from there, I thought of sharing the perspective of someone who is going through a dark phase in his/her/their life, and what it might feel like to constantly have an ongoing battle with one’s self,” Jarlo explains.
“O Sana, Hosanna” was written by Jarlo Bâse, who also serves as the 2023 single’s sole producer. He constructed a sonic equivalent of a battlefield, or to quote him directly, “a scene from an anime where the main character is struggling to break his limits in a fight.”
“O Sana Hosanna” will be launched for the first time on a live stage this Jan. 20, at the Social House in Makati City.
SM City Baliwag led by Assistant Mall Manager Eugene Martin (left) and Building Administration Manager Jay Esquivel (right) together with Lokal Bayong representative Ms. Rose Ann Natividad (2nd from left) turnover 25,840 worth of cash donation to Baliwag South Central School, the beneficiary of 100 Days of Happiness campaign at SM City Baliwag. Accepting the donation on behalf of the school is the Principal, Ms. Rosalie Santos (2nd from right).
SM Malls in Bulacan have raised at least 192K for various organizations and charities through the “100 Days of Happiness” campaign.
Launched last year at 100 days countdown to Christmas, the campaign aims to create a circle of happiness in the communities where SM has malls. Through viable livelihood support and partnerships, SM intends to raise resources for noble advocacies and beneficiaries in all 76 participating malls nationwide.
SM Malls in Marilao, San Jose Del Monte, Pulilan, and Baliwag partnered with several organizations in Bulacan to provide opportunities, raise funds, and create livelihood for chosen beneficiaries and charities.
SM City Marilao was able to raise a total ofPhp.154,291.00 for persons deprived of liberty (PDL) within 100 days starting September 16, 2022. By partnering with Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the mall was able to showcase PDL creation and products such as art paintings, native and twine bags, baskets, bead accessories, coin banks, rugs, handicrafts and home décors that are perfect holiday gifts for loved ones. Proceeds and generated revenue were turn over to PDL through BJMP. During the turn over ceremony, Jail Chief Inspector Delight Ercilla of Welfare and Development Division thanked SM City Marilao for opening an avenue where people can patronize PDL’s creation and products.
“Nagpapasalamat kami sa SM City Marilao sa malaking tulong na nagawa po nila sa aming mga PDL sa pagkat binigyan kami ng oras para maipamalas ano man yung talento ng aming mga PDL sa pamamagitan ng pagdisplay ng mga PDL livelihood products sa loob ng mall” shares JCP Ercilla “Malaking tulong po itong na generate na amount kasi makakatulong ito sa kanilang pamilya sa labas at sa kanilang pang araw-araw na gastusin dito sa loob ng BJMP” Ercilla added.
For the 100 Days of Happiness campaign inSM City San Jose Del Monte, the mall partners with City Related Establishment Society on Tourism (CREST) of the city. Peanut butter, resin pieces as well as leather goods were on display for 3 and a half months at the mall. Dumagat Tribe Community at Brgy. San Isidro SJDM benefitted from the campaign as part of the sales from 100 Days of Happiness selling were donated to the said tribe with a total amount of Php.12,667.35.
SM City Baliwag, in partnership with Lokal Bayong, likewise took part in a meaningful school year as they lead the turnover of Php.25, 840.00 worth of cash donations for the public school students and teachers of Baliwag South Central School.
“The donation raised from SM’s 100 Days of Happiness campaign will help in the projects and activities the school has lined up for the development of students and teachers,” shares SM City Baliwag Assistant Mall Manager Eugene Martin.
SM Center Pulilan together with Tonyo’s Kitchen turnover proceeds from the 100 Days of Happiness campaign to the marginalized members of the Pulilan Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association.
Thursday, January 19, 2023
Enjoy up to Php 1,000 discounts on OPPO IOT devices when you purchase any OPPO smartphone until January 31
Calling all OPPO fans! Kickstart your year with not just one, but two brand new OPPO devices, as the global smart device brand offers special IOT discount vouchers for every smartphone purchase for the month of January. Whether it’s a smart watch, earbuds or even a tablet, let OPPO help you hit your goals, increase productivity, and maximize downtime this year with this new year promo.
One of the reasons you should take advantage of this promo is being able to enjoy the highest discount on OPPO IOT devices if you purchase OPPO’s recently launched smartphone under the OPPO Reno8 series, the OPPO Reno8 5G 12+256GB. The new OPPO Reno8 12+256GB comes in a new glossy, fingerprint resistant color of Sunkissed Beige with a larger RAM at 12GB and 256GB ROM. With this, you can experience an upgraded performance that is smoother compared to the OPPO Reno8 5G original release. Capture more memories with a larger storage and experience no lags for better productivity.
Along with your new OPPO Reno8 5G 12GB+256GB, you will also get an exclusive discount of Php 1,000 off on IOT devices worth over Php 3,000. You can make a fresh start to the year with a new mobile phone, plus your very own ultra slim OPPO Pad Air, the ever reliable OPPO Band 2, OPPO Watch Free, OPPO Enco X2, and many more.
Customers who are eyeing other OPPO smartphones can also take advantage of a Php 700 discount voucher for any IOT product worth over Php 3,000, or a Php 500 discount voucher on IOT gadgets under Php 3,000. You can grab a new pair of the OPPO IOTs like the Enco Buds first release, the Enco Buds 2, Enco Air, and even smartwatches like OPPO Band.
This is your sign to upgrade and experience better performance with IOT devices that are made to pair perfectly with a new OPPO smartphone. Don’t walk, but run to any OPPO Brand store or retailer nationwide because these promos will only last until January 31, 2023!
For more information on OPPO smartphones and IOT products, visit https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or check out OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. To get the best care for your OPPO devices, visit your nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
To welcome the Year of the “Rappit,” your dependable online grocery store is offering a host of exciting deals and offers this Chinese New Year to reward customers for their loyalty to the platform.
Rappit ushers in fortune and luck with a Chinese New Year Sale from January 13 to 22, where you can enjoy discounts of up to 20% OFF on grocery favorites!
On top of that, don't miss out on the incredible flash sales, with discounts of over 50% OFF on select items: Del Fabric 1L (for only P75 on January 17), Kojiesan Skin Lightening Soap Classic 65g (3 packs) (for only P35 on January 31).
Rappit also has a Piso Sale where you can take home select items for an incredibly low price of P1! This includes Safeguard Soap Ivory White 60g (on January 18), Indomie Mi Goreng Fried Noodles 85g (on January 23), and Tang Orange 20g (on January 25).
For more savings and fortune, you can enjoy the JANMAYER voucher only offered this January: get P200 OFF + FREE DELIVERY, and this offer is yours when you shop with a minimum spend of P3,500.
“We hope these offers will help our customers get savings as they shop for their Chinese New Year celebrations. We are committed to being their go-to grocery sidekick and ensure that they are rewarded for their loyalty to our platform,” said Cindy Toh, CEO of Rappit.
Whether you're looking to buy gifts that bring good luck such as Tikoy for your friends and loved ones this Chinese New Year or stock up on your daily grocery must-haves, this is the perfect opportunity to save money while you shop and Rappit is your ultimate sidekick.
Rappit is a collaboration between the Puregold Group and Globe’s 917Ventures Learn more by visiting https://rappit.ph/.
Lunar New Year celebration at the SM City Marilao comes alive with fascinating Chinese cultural performances, festive activities, surprising events, and attractions for the mall goers to enjoy.
Because Chinese New Year will always be about family dining and spending time together, participating food tenants and restaurants will be offering exclusive group dining and meal bundles for family and friends with Lucky Feast Deals. Guest can savor and enjoy delightful fare, beverages and treats inspired by Chinese culture from festive food stalls until January 22. Popular Chinese treats like tikoy, hopia and kiat-kiat will be offered at SM Hypermarket for shoppers to enjoy a year of abundance and prosperity.
Shoppers may also enhance their luck for 2023 with Chinese lucky lantern and charms available at The SM Store. Likewise, friends and families can also have a fun-time taking photos and get in the festive mood with SM City Marilao’s Chinese New Year centerpiece and get helpful tips on love, wealth, health and career with the Zodiac Forecast Panels.
As a special treat for the Year of the Water Rabbit, talented performers will bring dance, martial arts and drumming to enhance the beautiful colorful procession Dragon and Lion Dance. Don’t miss to watch this time-honored prosperity dance as they grace their way into every corner of the mall on January 22.
It is bound to be a Chinese New Year blast at SM City Marilao. Embrace the good fortune the Year of the Mouse brings! Visit us today!
Tuesday, January 17, 2023
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates – Ten international organizations were named winners of the prestigious US$3 million 2023 Zayed Sustainability Prize during the awards ceremony held yesterday (Monday), coinciding with the beginning of the 2023 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).
The US$3 million Prize is the UAE’s pioneering global award in sustainability that recognises and rewards small and medium-sized enterprises, nonprofit organisations and high schools around the world that are delivering impactful, innovative and inspiring solutions in health, food, energy and water.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President of the UAE, presented the awards to the 10 winners across five categories, in the presence of various heads of state, ministers, and other senior-level dignitaries from the UAE and abroad, in addition to past winners, and the 2023 finalists.
Attending the ceremony were H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Ministry of Presidential Court; Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; along with a number of Sheikhs and senior officials.
In congratulating the winners, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reasserted the Prize’s role as a global catalyst for sustainability and humanitarian action. He said: “The UAE continues to lead on important global initiatives at the heart of our mission to create a better future for all, both within the UAE and beyond our nation’s borders. The bold ambition of the Zayed Sustainability Prize remains at the forefront of these efforts. It creates a pathway for delivering life-changing humanitarian aid and solutions to communities around the world.”
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan underscored how this year, which marks 15 years of the Prize, will also be a historic year for the UAE as it prepares to host the 28th session of the Conference of Parties (COP 28) to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change). Against this backdrop, this year’s awards serve as an important reminder of the need for greater international collaboration to mobilise climate action and create sustainable economic and social development opportunities across all nations, including the global south.
His Highness continued: “Over the last 15 years, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has successfully built upon the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed, and carried forward his bold humanitarian vision, ensuring that the resources of our great nation are fully used to the benefit of all people. Today, the Zayed Sustainability Prize stands an internationally recognised award that mobilises innovators, social entrepreneurs and young people to accelerate positive change for our planet and all people.”
Through its 96 former winners, the Prize has transformed the lives of more than 378 million people around the world since 2008, including in Vietnam, Nepal, Sudan, Ethiopia, Maldives and Tuvalu. In the Health, Food, Energy, and Water categories, each winner receives US$600,000, while the Global High Schools category has six winners, representing six world regions, with each winner receiving up to US$100,000.
His Highness also emphasised the need to develop bright young people into the critical thinkers and sustainability leaders of tomorrow, and praised the Prize’s Global High Schools category, which empowers youth to play an active role in supporting their communities’ socio-economic development.
In the Health category, Brazil’s Associação Expedicionários da Saúde (EDS) was awarded the Prize for its Mobile Hospital Complex, which provides specialised medical and surgical care for indigenous communities geographically isolated within the Amazon. The objective of the Mobile Hospital Complex is to reach the most difficult areas in the Amazon, guaranteeing the safety and comfort of patients and excellence in the quality of services provided. Over the course of six expeditions from 2015 - 2022, the nonprofit organisation performed more than 1,900 surgeries that improved health outcomes, including improved vision after cataract surgery.
Ÿnsect from France was the Food category winner for its important work in insect-based protein and natural fertilisers. The SME produces insect protein and natural insect fertilisers at Europe’s first-of-its-kind insect factory equipped with innovative vertical farming and integrated biorefining setup. Ÿnsect processes two insect species (molitor and buffalo mealworms) into high-end, high-value ingredients for the entire food chain—plants, fish, farmed animals, pets, and humans. Ÿnsect is currently building a new factory in France and operates two other sites in France and the Netherlands. By 2025, Ÿnsect will be able to produce more than 1,500 tonnes of protein per month.
In the past five years, Ÿnsect has improved the lives of 30 million people by delivering sustainable, natural, premium nutrition products for fish farming (as an alternative fish feed to meet aquaculture’s food supply needs) and human nutrition. The demo plant currently operated by the company produces 30 tonnes of protein production per month.
In the Energy category, the Jordan-based NeuroTech developed Al-based algorithms with a blockchain-based transaction system to bring reliable energy access to refugee camps. The SME employs the concept of energy sharing by separating electrical loads into low- and high-priority streams. Thus, beneficiaries are guaranteed to receive their lifesaving energy, and extra energy goes to low-priority feeders, according to energy availability. Sophisticated energy management and control reduces electricity stress and increases consumer awareness about electricity.
During its pilot phase, NeuroTech helped deliver electrical power to more than 10,000 Syrian refugees in Azraq. By optimising energy usage and distribution, NeuroTech has helped reduce the pressure on the camp’s main hospital respiratory section by making electricity available 24/7. Patients now can use a personal nebulizer, a medical device used during the COVID-19 pandemic, and for people with a chronic breathing illness.
LEDARS (Local Environment Development and Agricultural Research Society), an NPO from Bangladesh, secured the Water category win for its integrated water resource management model that solves water scarcity issues in disaster-prone areas. Their combination of technologies help transforms communities in Bangladesh so people can have access to safe drinking water and climate smart livelihoods.
With the support of LEDARS, 5,250 bio-sands-filters, 65 pond-sand-filters, 185 rainwater harvesting systems, and 69 protective ponds were installed in communities in Bangladesh, supporting cultivation of paddies and vegetables throughout the year on lands that were previously barren. LEDARS initiatives created access to safe drinking water for at least 15,881 families. As a result of this solution, more than 12 million gallons of water have been saved.
The Chair of the Jury and former President of the Republic of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, said: “This year’s winners have demonstrated a new level of creativity and ambition in their solutions to tackle pressing global challenges. We are confident that these winners will provide meaningful and scalable impact in communities across the world, and in turn accelerate important climate action goals to help secure a sustainable future for all.”
H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize said: “Since our nation’s wise leadership established the Zayed Sustainability Prize 15 years ago, the Prize has become a key supporter of the UAE's vision to drive inclusive climate action and international sustainable development. By providing real-world solutions in sustainability to vulnerable communities around the world, the Prize honours Sheikh Zayed’s contribution towards social good and elevates humanity on a global scale.
“Our 106 winners are driving action to solve the world’s most pressing challenges. Through their commitment to championing positive action, millions of people who were living without access to energy, water, healthcare, or food in the developing world, now have sustainable economic and social development opportunities, including access to quality education, decent work, economic growth and improved livelihoods.”
H.E. Al Jaber added: “As the UAE prepares to host COP28 later this year, the Zayed Sustainability Prize stands as a critical reminder of the UAE’s commitment to accelerating practical solutions needed to help societies mitigate and adapt to climate change.”
Since 2013, the Prize has awarded 46 high schools under its Global High Schools category from countries around the world. Students at these schools won for their self-led project proposals that have since been implemented by the youth. Collectively, they have generated 7.2 million kWh of electricity, saved 5,700 tons of CO2 and positively impacted 427,408 people in their communities.
The recipients of the 2023 Global High School awards are Fundacion Bios Terrae - ICAM Ubate (Colombia), representing The Americas; Romain-Rolland-Gymnasium (Germany), representing Europe & Central Asia; Gifted Students School (Iraq), representing the Middle East & North Africa region; UWC East Africa - Arusha Campus (Tanzania), representing Sub-Saharan Africa; Dhaka Residential Model College (Bangladesh), representing South Asia, and finally, Kamil Muslim College (Fiji) from the East Asia & Pacific region.
The winners were selected from a pool of 4,538 – a record number of submissions – chosen by a panel of more than 40 experts. The Jury members include H.E. Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, Former President of the Republic of Iceland, UAE ministers, Sir Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Group, Dr. Andreas Jacobs, Chairman of INSEAD, Jacobs Family Council, among others.
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