Wednesday, May 29, 2024

InLife campaigns for an Un-sandwiched Generation



Leave and cleave.

The phrase "Sandwich Generation" refers to a generation of people who are expected to care for their parents while also attempting to raise their own family. This is a growing group of Filipinos, estimated to number in the millions, who are in their early 20s to early 50s.

This normally refers to a husband and wife leaving their respective families in order to form their own family. Furthermore, it means prioritizing the new family’s needs over those of their respective families. In the Philippines, however, it is a common practice to support one’s parents and siblings while building one’s own family. This is what the Sandwich Generation is about.

While this phenomenon is a global issue, the Philippines’ Sandwich Generation finds itself with more pressing challenges.

Due to cultural and societal factors, many Filipinos not only take care of their parents but also family members from the previous generation (grandparents, uncles, and aunts). They are raising their own families and at the same time, helping their extended family. It is common to hear of Pinoys who must financially take care of nephews and nieces and other younger relatives.


InLife: The Un-Sandwiched Generation Campaign

InLife, the country’s first and largest Filipino life insurance company, has taken notice of the Sandwich Generation’s challenges prompting it to launch a campaign to aid the Filipino Sandwich Generation “Un-sandwich” their lives.

Called InLife: The Un-Sandwiched Generation, the new project aims to empower the Pinoy Sandwich Gen with resources and tools for financial planning and management, education planning, caregiving resources, mental health and self-care, and insurance knowledge, among others. Anyone may access these information through different channels, among them, a new microsite within the InLife website, guides, webinars, podcasts, and other forms of content.

According to InLife Chief Marketing Officer Gae L. Martinez, this is InLife’s long-term commitment to be there for the Sandwich Generation. It is a massive challenge but something InLife is more than willing to undertake.

“The InLife Sandwich Generation campaign is our way of acknowledging the amazing strength and resilience of these unsung heroes of society who balance the responsibilities of taking care of their elders while also taking care of the younger generation. This initiative is our promise to stand by the millions of Filipinos who are part of the Sandwich Generation. We want to help them un-sandwich themselves and future generations and be able to live A Lifetime for Good. InLife’s product ecosystem is designed to address the pivotal financial milestones of Filipinos. We offer a roadmap to navigate this challenging journey. With this approach, we provide a lifeline that will help them un-sandwich themselves and liberate them from the pressures of multi-generational financial responsibilities and give them the financial independence not just for themselves but also their loved ones.” ~Gae L. Martinez, InLife Chief Marketing Officer


The InLife Product Ecosystem

The campaign also seeks to highlight how financial literacy and planning for the future can help Filipinos free themselves from this cycle but still be able to help their elders while ensuring a good future for themselves. One of the solutions is by taking out insurance products designed to address the different challenges a person will likely encounter in the future.

InLife’s Abundance, for instance, is a savings and insurance plan payable in either five or ten years and gives guaranteed cash payouts for 20 years or until the age of 65 regardless of market conditions when they become due. The guaranteed cash payouts are equal to 10% of the sum insured and paid every two years starting at the end of the 7th policy year for the 5-pay, and on the 11th year for the 10-pay variants until the plan matures. These cash payouts may be set up as a nest egg so the insured will have a ready source of funds when they reach retirement age.

InLife’s Resilience is a critical illness plan that provides life insurance and guaranteed lump sum cash upon diagnosis of a critical illness, aside from other additional health benefits. Resilience serves as a cushion against potential huge medical bills that could have a major impact on the family’s finances.

Wealth Assure Plus, on the other hand, provides a versatile and flexible way of combining life protection and investment, allowing them to tailor their financial plans based on their needs and budget.

Members of the Sandwich Generation may get more information on customizing solutions to their needs by visiting https://www.insularlife.com.ph/insurance-for-individuals.

USANA Philippines Meets with Local Health Experts to Discuss the Vital Role of Supplements

The guest speakers address questions from the audience during the Q&A segment of the health symposium. 


To show the importance of supplementation in maintaining wellness, USANA Philippines met with around 300 health professionals nationwide at its inaugural symposium. Building on their 15th anniversary celebration, this event echoes USANA’s commitment to reach one million families globally —with a continued focus on product research, innovation, and education.

“For 15 years, USANA Philippines has strived to fulfill the vision of its founder, Dr.  Myron Wentz, to create the healthiest family on earth. As we step into this milestone, we’re fortifying this goal by hosting our first ever health symposium and strengthening our partnerships with health professionals.” ~Cherry Dionisio-Ampig, general manager of USANA Philippines

From left: USANA Marketing Supervisor Leeo Onanad, USANA Marketing Supervisor Jara Tayamen, USANA’s executive director of global health education and nutrition research Dr. Rolando Maddela, Registered Nutritionist-Dietician Mary Rose Del Rio, Medical Oncologist Dr. Alex DelgadoDr. Susano Yves Tanael, and USANA Senior Sales & Marketing Manager Joyce Ramallosa. 


This health symposium reflects how USANA places science, specifically research and innovation, at its core
“One very consistent value of USANA’s is the science behind its products. The foundation of everything we do is anchored in science—giving meaning to our influence on the health of our communities.” ~David Mulham, chief sales officer of USANA Health Sciences, Inc.

USANA Philippines’ General Manager Cherry Dionisio-Ampig officially starts the program. 


As an industry leader, USANA conducts thorough research and evaluations to determine specific market demands and discover new ingredients to best fit evolving needs. This process creates products specifically developed to support people on their journey to maintaining wellness.

“As a company, we continuously research and innovate.  We’re committed to developing new products and upgrading existing ones to be even more competitive and to continuously promote healthy living.” ~Dr. Rolando Maddela, USANA’s Executive Director of Global Health Education and Nutrition Research

Dr. Rolando Maddela, USANA’s executive director of global health education and nutrition research, discusses how dietary supplements help in addressing nutrition-based health issues. 


This health symposium served as a way for medical professionals and others in attendance to learn and engage in meaningful discussions about the country’s current health landscape and the pivotal nurturing role supplements play. Esteemed speakers from the medical field included Dr. Susano “Yves” Tanael, Registered Nutritionist-Dietician MaryRose del Rio, Dr. Alex Delgado, and Dr. Rolando Maddela.

Monday, May 27, 2024

RACKS and Tenya Are Serving Bites Before Flights!



Travel days can be so stressful, thankfully, you have one less thing to worry about – what to eat on the big day of the flight! Before heading out to the big wide world, pause for a minute and take the time to say goodbye with a great meal at RACKS or Tenya. If you are arriving, then Tenya and RACKS are the perfect treat to come home to!

RACKS and Tenya have opened their doors in the Food Hall of NAIA Terminal 3! Now, before flights, you have two new mouth-watering stops to choose from. Arrivals can have their welcome meal right in the airport and try their signature staples.

If you are in the mood for classic American fare, family-style ribs with all the trimmings, then head over to RACKS! It’s the perfect place to have one more bonding moment with your loved ones before boarding or as soon as you arrive.

Photo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Facebook Page


Is Japanese dining more your style? Are you looking for something hearty to keep you energized for your travels? Then be sure to stop at Tenya for authentic Japanese tempura. You’ll want to fill up on something succulent and delicious before you face a long plane ride.



RACKS is the perfect family restaurant for a reunion! It’s been serving ribs for over 20 years in the Philippines. Tenya is the number one tempura tendon restaurant in Japan. Together, they are a formidable new addition to the Terminal 3 Food Hall.
“These new restaurants in NAIA are a great move for us at RACKS and Tenya. We are proud that the Philippines is showcasing our food in the gateway to the globe.” ~Chukri Prieto, Cavallino Inc. Managing Director

Photo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Facebook Page

Photo from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Facebook Page


This new location hopes to see traffic from both Filipino and foreign travelers, balikbayans and tourists alike. RACKS and Tenya, both have long track records of proving themselves as favorites for Filipinos and will be tantalizing new options in the airport.

“We want to be where the action is and give travelers a good, reliable place to say goodbye, get ready for a flight, or even a place to welcome someone to Manila.” ~Iggy Ramos, General Manager



These branches of RACKS and Tenya will feature special sections for all-day breakfast with drip coffee or tea from Twinings. There will also be a Stuff N’ Go Section with to-go items and souvenirs for anyone who needs something last minute before rushing over to their gate.

“It’s important to us that travelers have a nice place to welcome people home or see them off, all while enjoying food they know will deliver every time.” ~Denise Ramos, Director for Operations



During the opening event, two trips to Japan were given away. The guest media and invited personalities had a great time sampling the food that will soon delight travelers from all over the world. Whatever your mood on your travel days, it’s sure to be lifted by good food in a good spot to say your goodbyes, welcome loved ones home, or just have a bite to eat. Have your farewell meal or your welcome home reunion at Tenya or RACKS at the NAIA Terminal 3, L4 Food Hall!

For more information about RACKS and Tenya, visit www.racks.ph and www.tenya.com.ph or follow RACKS and Tenya on Facebook at RACKS and Tenya Philippines and on Instagram at @racks.ph and @tenyaph. RACKS and Tenya are also available in Foodpanda, GrabFood, Pickaroo and SM Malls online.

Shop, Chill, and Bring Your Furry Friends to MR.DIY!



Step into MR.DIY, shop, and chill with your furry friends in our pet-friendly stores!

1. A Community of Pet Lovers

Pets are integral to the MR.DIY experience. Witness adorable pups nestled in carts and gentle giants strolling down our aisles, where our staff warmly greet your four-legged buddies. We offer a variety of pet products to ensure their happiness.

While our standalone branches welcome furry friends with diapers and leashes, our pet-friendly policy adheres to mall regulations, too! Pet owners must follow certain mall guidelines as some malls require the pets’ proof of vaccination and owners must always ensure they pick up after their pet, have them wear diapers and to keep them on a leash or
in their strollers to ensure everyone’s safety.

Currently available in select malls like Ayala, SM Hypermarket, and Eastwood Cyber and Fashion Mall–our pet-friendly policy fosters a sense of community among pet lovers. Engage with fellow pet owners, swap stories, share tips, and forge new friendships, all while celebrating our mutual love for our furry companions.


2. Furbaby Fridays Feature

Snap a pic of your furbaby in our store and tag us! Your pet could be featured on our official Facebook page for Furbaby Fridays! It’s a fun way to show off your furry friend and join our pet-loving community.


3. Bonding Time

Shopping at MR.DIY with your pet isn’t just convenient—it’s a bonding experience. Whether you’re picking out journals, garden plants, or DIY supplies, having your pet by your side makes every trip more enjoyable. For your pets, it’s a sensory adventure filled with new sights and smells to explore.


Shop and Chill to Win Fun Prizes!
But wait, there’s more! Dive into our Shop and Chill promo to get a chance to win fun prizes by following these easy steps:
Shop: Spend a minimum of PHP 500, including any of the participating items from our Sizzling Summer Sale.
Scan: Use your smartphone to scan the QR code provided in-store.
Fill Out: Complete the online entry form with your details.
Upload: Snap a photo of your receipt and upload it with your submission.


Chill and enjoy shopping at MR.DIY and make it even more exciting by joining the Shop and Chill Raffle Promo!

For additional details about MR.DIY’s Shop and Chill promo, stop by any of MR.DIY’s 564 participating stores.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on the promotion by visiting MR.DIY’s official website at www.mrdiy.com/ph and following our social media accounts on FacebookInstagram and TikTok.










About MR.DIY
MR D.I.Y. is the largest home improvement retailer with more than 2,000 stores across Southeast Asia including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Philippines, Cambodia, India, and Europe in Turkey and Spain. The home improvement retailer has dedicated itself to making a positive difference in the lives of its valued customers by offering convenience at all its stores nationwide.

All MR. D.I.Y. stores are managed directly and the company often works in collaboration with other mass merchandise retailers or owners of malls or shopfront properties. MR. D.I.Y. stores offer a wide selection of — approximately 18,000 SKUs — across 5 major categories, namely hardware; household and furnishing; electrical; stationery and sports equipment products; and others (comprising amongst others toys, car accessories, jewelry, and cosmetics).

The company strives to put customers first by operating an innovative business that is flexible when it comes to providing a wide variety of products, good quality, and value-for-money, holding true to the Company’s motto of “ALWAYS LOW PRICES”. Visit www.mrdiy.com/ph/ for more details.

Friday, May 24, 2024

ArenaPlus starts NBA playoffs with Magic Tickets



ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports betting app, makes NBA playoffs more enjoyable and entertaining with the ArenaPlus Magic Ticket. Running from April 20 to June 27, ArenaPlus Magic Ticket is a campaign designed to elevate the NBA fan experience through prizes and activities set online and on-ground.

Everyone may now enjoy NBA playoffs just in the comfort of their homes through the live streaming feature on arenaplus.net while winning magic tickets. ArenaPlus users can have the chance to get their magic tickets through new users registration, daily log-ins, inviting friends to play, and betting on the games, with no limit. The more tickets users get, the greater their chances of winning.




These magic tickets qualify users for the daily raffle draws happening at 10:00 PM starting April 20, leading to the grand draw on June 27 live on ArenaPlus.net. Among the prizes were cash credits, a brand new car, motorcycles, iPhones, Air Jordan 1, and more plus a grand cash pool of 30 million pesos. By completing tasks across different zones and fulfilling registration and deposit requirements, users can earn prizes and win more magic tickets for lucky draws.

Aside from winning tickets through the ArenaPlus.net, everyone can get more tickets by participating in the on-ground activities installed in different zones around Metro Manila. Starting May 18, ArenaPlus will activate the “Magic Shoot Challenge'', the "1-on-1 Street Basketball Challenge", and the “3-Point Shooting Challenge,” organized to bring fun and entertainment to the identified barangays during this campaign. Everyone may also enjoy the "ArenaPlus Jeepney," designed with a basketball board on top, driving across the cities of Quezon, Caloocan, Makati, Manila, and more. Drivers and commuters may also pose-to-post in the locker-room-themed “Magic Bus Stop'' located at Commonwealth Rd., Quezon City. All activities are created to bring more fun and entertainment on-ground while giving them more opportunities to score prizes like additional magic tickets and a chance to attend the ArenaPlus NBA Finals event.

The ArenaPlus NBA playoffs campaign will culminate its final stop through a five-day exhibit, "Magic Land,"  featuring a magic ticket reception center, a basketball fan dream house, a gaming area, an ArenaPlus Live viewing space, and an art creation area. During the NBA Finals, ArenaPlus Live hosts will also be present at the live viewing, with basketball challenges and an after-party for qualified and winning users.

To know more about the campaign, visit ArenaPlus’ social media pages and website at www.arenaplus.net.








DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. ArenaPlus, the leading sports betting app that provides various sports live streaming in the Philippines, serving as the leading sports entertainment gateway of Filipinos. For more information, visit: www.arenaplus.net.

Jollibee Foods Corporation Mounts Employee-led Mangrove Reforestation Project

To bolster its commitment to expand its Mangrove Reforestation project in 2024, Jollibee Foods Corporation and Jollibee Group Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR). Present during the signing were (L-R) Jollibee Group Foundation’s President and Executive Director Gisela Tiongson, Jollibee Foods Corporation’s President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, and Jollibee Foods Corporation’s Vice President and Head of Public Affairs, Atty. Raul Academia


The Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) continues to drive change through its corporate social responsibility arm, the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc. (JGF), as it spearheaded a mangrove reforestation program with a string of tree-planting activities held in three coastal provinces.

Close to 4,000 mangrove trees have been planted by JFC employees: 2,250 mangrove propagules along the coastlines of Alaminos, Pangasinan and Carmen, Cebu; and 1,700 seedlings in Lemery, Batangas. 


Protecting shorelines. Last year, 212 employee volunteers participated in a string of tree-planting activities. The photo shows some Jollibee employees who volunteered planting mangrove propagules in Lemery, Batangas. 


JGF President Gisela Tiongson emphasized that the reforestation initiative is part of JFC’s increased efforts to advance its global sustainability agenda called Joy for Tomorrow in line with the objective under the Planet pillar to help treat the planet responsibly.

“JFC’s 45th anniversary last year marked a special milestone that inspired us to step up our effort in creating value for our stakeholders and in giving back to the environment. Through this mangrove reforestation program, we aim to help restore the mangrove ecosystem and build a more resilient future for our fellow Filipinos living in coastal communities. We are grateful for their assistance and for guiding us throughout the activities, as well as the People’s Organization in Cebu for the mangrove seedlings. ~Gisela Tiongson, JGF President 

Treating the Planet Responsibly. Zenith Foods Corporation and Red Ribbon – Mandaue City employee volunteers plant mangrove propagules in Carmen, Cebu.


Strengthening collaboration 
 
JGF has collaborated with national agencies and local community partners to ensure that the mangrove planting activities are done correctly using the right species that are planted in the right site and in the right season—all these considerations are crucial in ensuring mangrove survival and propagation.
 
Tiongson recognized the support provided by DENR SCIS-Strategic Alliance and Environmental Partnership Division, DENR-Environmental Management Bureau, DENR Region 7, City Environment & Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of Cebu City and Carmen, and CENRO Calaca, Batangas. 


Fostering employee engagement
 
The reforestation program was started in 2023, with over 200 employee-volunteers from Jollibee, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Zenith Foods Corporation, and Jollibee Worldwide Services Logistics. This also formed part of the Company’s engagement program for its employees and JFC’s 45th anniversary activities.
 
To bolster the project, JFC’s President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong and JGF’s Tiongson, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga on April 19. 

“We are cognizant of the climate emergency we are in, and hence, we are taking steps to contribute to climate mitigation in the work of JGF, together with the company. To this end, we will be investing in mangrove reforestation initiatives with the help of our employee volunteers. And we will be supporting communities in mangrove management. mobilize volunteer employees to participate in the conduct of environmental programs and activities in mangrove reforestation and extend its support to community-based mangrove protection and reforestation activities.” ~Ernesto Tanmantiong, JFC’s President and CEO

This year, JGF will also be working on establishing the project as a sustained program in a move to further broaden the skill set, experience, and knowledge of JFC employees beyond their work. To further increase the area of mangrove habitat in the country, JGF is also planning to conduct mangrove planting activities in Visayas and Mindanao under strong community management.












About Jollibee Group 
Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. Its mission is to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone through its 18 brands with over 6,800 stores across 33 countries. 

The Jollibee Group has eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee; and 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand. JFC also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

The Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. The Jollibee Group has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. The Company also established a joint venture company that will own and operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. Recently, the Jollibee Group signed agreements to own 10% ownership in Botrista, a leader in the beverage technology space.  The Company also owns a 90% participating interest in Titan Dining Partners II Ltd to further grow Asia Pacific food service brands and/or bring strong global food service brands to Asia Pacific.

The Jollibee Group has launched its global sustainability agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, which aims to strengthen the Company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. The agenda centers on the key pillars of Food, People, and Planet, and consists of 10 focus areas namely: food safety, food quality, nutrition & transparency, employee welfare, farmers livelihood, community support, good governance, packaging & recycling, waste reduction, and energy & water efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Jollibee Group was named the Philippines' Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies and among the World's Best Employers and World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. The Company is also a three-time recipient of Gallup’s Exceptional Workplace Award and was recently cited in TIME’s List of the World’s Best Companies.  

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com


Thursday, May 23, 2024

Whole-Of-Asia, Whole-Of-Society needed to fight cyber threats in the Asia region



Leaders of Philippine Cybersecurity and Data Protection Communities of Practice attending the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Technical Working Group joint meeting highlight the urgency for all government and private sector organizations to work in harmony together to fight against cyber threats in the Asia region.

“A harmonious whole-of-Asia and whole-of-society approach to fight cyber threats in the region has to be orchestrated among government and private sector leaders in ASEAN and Japan, along with other countries in the region. Asian countries face the same threats, and all countries attending confirmed that their respective government’s digital infrastructure along with Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) are also being attacked constantly by international and even local threat actors. When government and private sector organizations work hand-in-hand to fight cyber threats, citizens will benefit the most. We already see the positive dynamics and impact of this cybersecurity community in the region.” ~Lito Averia, President of the Philippine Computer Emergency Response Team (PH-CERT)

For the Philippines, PH-CERT and NADPOP estimate that the country needs 180,000 trained and validated cybersecurity professionals to proactively and effectively protect the country’s CIIs. Both communities added that a similar number of Data Privacy and Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) trained and validated professionals is also needed by the Philippines.

“The constantly increasing cyber attacks on government digital ecosystems and CIIs call for nations in the Asia region to establish concrete solutions such as an Information Exchange Network which will serve as a cyber weather station that will receive, verify, then send out threat alerts to everyone that will impacted in the region. In parallel, each country should continue to produce new cybersecurity professionals and to upskill current cybersecurity and information security personnel that are already working in government and private organizations. What is emerging through these meetings is a regional force for good that will serve as a shield for countries and citizens against threat actors, who are now using AI in their attacks. We are inviting all active Communities of Practice in the region to collaborate with our regional community, the AJCCA, as threat actors are also organized in their actions. During these times, we truly need a whole-of-region, whole-of-society, and even whole-of-community cooperation to effectively respond to cyber threats.~Sam Jacoba, Founding President of the National Association of Data Protection Officers of the Philippines (NADPOP), and PH-CERT Vice President

PH-CERT and NADPOP are also attending the fifth board meeting of the newly-formed ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Community Alliance (AJCCA), which is a community event happening alongside the 2024 2nd ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Working Group Meeting, organized and hosted by the government of Cambodia.

The 2nd Joint Government-Industry-Academia (J-GIA) CA meeting between AJCCA and government cybersecurity representatives from ASEAN and Japan, highlights the importance of harmonious collaboration among countries in the region, focusing on the five pillars of the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) published by the United Nations International Telecommunications Union (ITU). The five cybersecurity pillars are the following: Legal, Technical, Organizational, Capacity Building, and Cooperation.

Averia and Jacoba shared that joint initiatives between the government and private sector will be rolling out soon as the main output of these quarterly regional meetings. These initiatives can address the main gaps in the GCI Cybersecurity Pillars for each country and the whole region as well.













About PH-CERT
Organized at the turn of the century, the Philippine Computer Emergency Response Team or PH-CERT is a non-stock, non-profit organization institutionalized in March 2001 by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the Republic of the Philippines (RP). Its primary purpose and advocacy are the following: to increase the awareness for Information Security and Cybersecurity; develop an inclusive Information Security (InfoSec) and Cybersecurity Workforce; and adopt InfoSec and Cybersecurity standards, and best practices to uplift their practice in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific Region.

 
About NADPOP
The National Association of Data Protection Officers of the Philippines (NADPOP) is the Philippine’s first community of Data Privacy, Data Protection and Cybersecurity Practitioners in the Philippines. Established and institutionalized by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the Republic of the Philippines in 2018, NADPOP is a non-stock, non-profit organization whose vision is a Cyber, AI and Data Resilient Philippines. It aims to transform the Philippines into a Global Center of Excellence in Data Privacy, Data Protection, and Cybersecurity. NADPOP will do this by inspiring, empowering, and prospering Data Privacy, Data Protection, and Cybersecurity Professionals and Practitioners in the Philippines, and in the Asia-Pacific Region.


About AJCCA
The ASEAN Japan Cybersecurity Community Alliance (AJCCA) is a collaborative initiative formed by nine leading cybersecurity communities from ASEAN nations and Japan. AJCCA is dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity capabilities, information sharing, and mutual support among its member nations to address the evolving challenges in the digital landscape. AJCCA’s Vision is a dynamic and resilient cybersecurity community in our region through trustworthy and respectful collaboration.


Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Jollibee Group Recognized with Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for the third time

Global workplace consulting and research firm Gallup has once again recognized the Jollibee Group with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award. This marks the third time the homegrown restaurant company has received the accolade.


Continues to be the first and only Philippine-based company to have received the global award.

Jollibee Group, a homegrown restaurant company, has been recognized with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA) for the third time in 2024. This award validates the company's commitment to people engagement as a key component of its business strategy. The Jollibee Group is the first and only Philippine-based company to receive the award.

The GEWA covers 2.7 million employees in 100,000 teams around the world. It is based on Gallup's extensive and rigorous workplace research and honors world-class organizations that incorporate engagement into their workplace culture. 

“This recognition was made possible by the countless men and women of the Jollibee Group around the world who contribute and shape our uniquely joyful work culture. Our three-time recognition is timely as it comes at the heels of our best year yet in 2023: a clear manifestation that our business success is deeply interconnected with our people’s success. We remain committed to helping our talents build a career where they can live out their purpose, build meaningful relationships at work, and contribute with their unique talents to our mission of bringing the joy of eating to everyone. We strive hard to make our people not only successful but also happy.” ~Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group’s President and Chief Executive Officer

Gallup Chief Executive Officer Jon Clifton congratulated winning organizations for redefining what it means to be a great place to work amid continuing workplace challenges.

“Your commitment to creating environments where employees are listened to, valued, and positioned to use their strengths every day is what sets you apart. Thank you for setting a new global standard in what it means to be a thriving workplace.” ~Jon Clifton, Gallup Chief Executive Officer

A Joyful Work Environment

Jollibee Group’s strengthened People Agenda was key to its record business performance, which was characterized by back-to-back best-ever years in 2022 and 2023. 

Earlier this year, the company defined its Employer Value Proposition “Choose Joy,” which articulates the unique experience of being a Jollibee Group employee and the company’s culture of joy built over the past 46 years.

The Jollibee Group has also continued to elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion (D&I) in its workplace through its D&I vision and commitment to “Joy for All.” The D&I vision aims to cultivate a more joyful and inclusive environment for the team members that power its organization and the consumers and stakeholders that are part of the organization’s ecosystem.

The Jollibee Group first received the GEWA in 2020 amid the pandemic. It was the first time a Philippine-based company had been given such distinction. The company received its second GEWA accolade in 2023, the same year it was included in TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies.

Forbes Magazine has also listed the Jollibee Group among the World’s Best Employers for three straight years, from 2020 to 2022. In 2021, Forbes also cited the company in the inaugural listing of the World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies.  













A Joyful Work Environment
Jollibee Group’s strengthened People Agenda was key to its record business performance, which was characterized by back-to-back best-ever years in 2022 and 2023. 

Earlier this year, the company defined its Employer Value Proposition “Choose Joy,” which articulates the unique experience of being a Jollibee Group employee and the company’s culture of joy built over the past 46 years.

The Jollibee Group has also continued to elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion (D&I) in its workplace through its D&I vision and commitment to “Joy for All.” The D&I vision aims to cultivate a more joyful and inclusive environment for the team members that power its organization and the consumers and stakeholders that are part of the organization’s ecosystem.

The Jollibee Group first received the GEWA in 2020 amid the pandemic. It was the first time a Philippine-based company had been given such distinction. The company received its second GEWA accolade in 2023, the same year it was included in TIME Magazine’s World’s Best Companies.

Forbes Magazine has also listed the Jollibee Group among the World’s Best Employers for three straight years, from 2020 to 2022. In 2021, Forbes also cited the company in the inaugural listing of the World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies.  

Teachers for a Day: MR.DIY, World Vision, empower Baseco Youth through ‘Brigada Pagbasa’



It was a Saturday to remember for Alex–one of MR.DIY’s employee volunteers–who for the longest time, has been looking for an opportunity to teach young people.'






For him, there is a sense of fulfillment seeing students understand and learn from their activities as they form genuine connections with their “teachers for a day.”

Meanwhile, employee-volunteer Claire felt like it’s a gift to join in teaching the children, as she witnessed their appreciation and their selflessness–reminding her to be grateful for all the blessings she has.

Like Alex and Claire, 16 other employee-volunteers from leading home improvement retailer MR.DIY joined forces with World Vision International to empower youth through the Brigada Pagbasa Program, held at the Baseco Compound in Manila, Saturday, April 20.


Ms. Mydee David, MR.DIY Philippines’ Head of HR, delivers her remarks for the volunteers and participants of the Brigada Pagbasa program.

Mr. Charles Salecina, MR.DIY Philippines’ Deputy Head of Marketing speaks before school children participating in Brigada Pagbasa.


As an integral part of MR.DIY’s overarching corporate social responsibility program, Acts of Kindness (AOK), the partnership with World Vision recognizes the importance of education in providing a brighter future for children, rooted in one of AOK’s core pillars of Youth and Education. 

A total of 34 students from Grades 4 to 7 from the Sen. Benigno Aquino Elementary School participated in the program aimed at improving their literacy skills. Currently, these students are on track to undergo a post-test to assess their progress as they finish all 16 sessions of the Brigada Pagbasa Program. 

Mr. Charles Salecina, Deputy Head of Marketing for MR.DIY Philippines, reiterated the company's dedication to youth education. 


Volunteers from MR.DIY engaging in fun activities with 34 schoolchildren from the Sen. Benigno Aquino Elementary School during the Brigada Pagbasa last April 22.


He emphasized education's lasting importance as an invaluable gift and pledged MR.DIY's readiness to improve students' understanding abilities.He also stressed the importance of reading as a fundamental skill for their future.

Brigada Pagbasa, initiated by the Department of Education, is an after-school reading intervention platform that partners with community stakeholders to improve students' reading skills. It assesses reading readiness and comprehension levels using the Lit DAPAT tool, enabling targeted interventions to address specific learning needs.

This collaborative effort between Mr. DIY, World Vision, and DepEd’s Brigada Pagbasa serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the transformative power of community partnerships in building a brighter future for generations to come.


Monday, May 20, 2024

Jollibee Group Strengthens Responsible Sourcing Commitment through its Global Suppliers

Care for the planet. Through its Farms of the Future Project, McCain Foods gains a better understanding of regenerative agricultural practices and their positive impact on the Earth.


As a global restaurant company committed to sustainable business practices, the Jollibee Group recognizes the need to engage with supplier partners like Lamb Weston and McCain Foods, who both share the company’s commitment to responsible sourcing. 


Responsible Sourcing at the core

McCain Foods is a Canada-based company specializing in fries and specialty potato products. For two decades, it has been a reliable supplier of the Jollibee Group which works closely with 3,500 farmers to reimagine a more sustainable way to grow potatoes.

Anchored in its regenerative agricultural practice, Farms of the Future supports farmers in adopting techniques that conserve water, minimize chemical fertilizer usage, and enhance soil health. These efforts contribute to its inclusive goal of empowering its farmers to face threats in the global food system, such as climate change, soil degradation, biodiversity loss, and food waste.

McCain Foods aims to further its commitment to responsible sourcing by operating three Farms of the Future in different growing regions on top of its locations in Canada and South Africa by 2025. This project is one of several initiatives that helped place McCain Foods at the 55th rank in the 2023 Food and Agriculture Benchmark. The Food and Agriculture Benchmark is part of the World Benchmarking Alliance, which provides an essential tool for measuring and comparing corporate performance with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It measures and ranks 350 keystone companies - from farm to fork - on key issues underpinning the food systems transformation agenda. 

For its part, Lamb Weston, a global producer, and processor of frozen potato products, and one of the Jollibee Group’s longtime potato suppliers, has comprehensive sustainability goals focused on food, people, and the planet. 

One of its banner initiatives is its Sustainable Agriculture program which continuously improves its processes, adopts the latest equipment and technology, and shares the best practices with its growers. Before introducing them to its growers, Lamb Weston recently piloted its technologies and practices in 100 Circles Farm–its 20,000-acre farm in Paterson, Washington, United States. With this, the company can better understand the opportunities and challenges that the farmers encounter. Lamb Weston has also invested in soil research and technologies, believing that healthy soil is the key to climate resiliency and long-term productivity.


Sustainability across the entire business

As the Jollibee Group continues to expand globally, it will bolster its partnership with global suppliers that share its commitment to sustainability as aligned with the company’s global sustainability agenda called Joy for Tomorrow.

The Jollibee Group launched Joy for Tomorrow to integrate its sustainable business practices into a more cohesive framework that unites the entire organization and guides its engagement with stakeholders and partners. 
















About Jollibee Group 
Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. Its mission is to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone through its 18 brands with over 6,900 stores across 33 countries. 

The Jollibee Group has eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee; and 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand. JFC also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

The Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. The Jollibee Group has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. The Company also established a joint venture company that will own and operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. Recently, the Jollibee Group signed agreements to own 10% ownership in Botrista, a leader in the beverage technology space.  The Company also owns a 90% participating interest in Titan Dining Partners II Ltd to further grow Asia Pacific food service brands and/or bring strong global food service brands to Asia Pacific.

The Jollibee Group has launched its global sustainability agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, which aims to strengthen the Company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. The agenda centers on the key pillars of Food, People, and Planet, and consists of 10 focus areas namely: food safety, food quality, nutrition & transparency, employee welfare, farmers livelihood, community support, good governance, packaging & recycling, waste reduction, and energy & water efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Jollibee Group was named the Philippines' Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies and among the World's Best Employers and World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. The Company is also a three-time recipient of Gallup’s Exceptional Workplace Award and was recently cited in TIME’s List of the World’s Best Companies.  

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

ArenaPlus leaves its mark on the sands of the Love Boracay sportsfest



ArenaPlus, your 24/7 sports betting app, took the chance to fly to Station 1 at Boracay to join locals in beating the summer heat during the Love Boracay 2024 Sportsfest from April 26 to 29, 2024.

As the sportsfest’s major sponsor, ArenaPlus established its presence as early as the first day of the event when the Opening Ceremony was held in front of Epic on April 26. It celebrated the opening with other guests like Malay Municipal Mayor Frolibar Sacapaño Bautista, Vice Mayor Niño Carlos Cawaling, and Hon. Daligdig Y. Sumndad. In the opening remarks, Dindo Miguel Salazar commented that Love Boracay doubled as a way for the community to grow closer as well as inspire care for the local environment.





ArenaPlus’ logo was seen decorating the Station 1 space from the White House Resort to Estancia Uno. Several banners were also set up to guide attendees to the ArenaPlus booth, where they were welcome to bring home merchandise that were particularly fitting for the summer season. Event-goers were seen happily walking around with ArenaPlus-branded towels, water bottles, shirts, and sports bags.

The Love Boracay 2024 Sportsfest focused on several beach sports: beach tennis, beach volleyball, Paraw/Regatta, sandcastle, dragon boat racing, beach soccer, and ultimate frisbee. While a casual event, players were given their own jerseys to wear as they competed, with the ArenaPlus logo displayed at the back. Winners of the beach tennis, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and sandcastle games were awarded with ArenaPlus tokens. 

For the Boracay Beach Tennis Philippines competition, there were four categories. Martin Lucien from France and Arturo Victor won the Open 40+ Men’s Doubles, Yza Milanes and Kaddie Mohammad won the Open Mixed Doubles, Arturo Victor and James Solano won the Open Men’s Doubles, and Bencia Delos Santos and Sophie Sacapaño won the Open Women’s Doubles.The Boracay Racquet Sports Club PH and Philippine Tennis Association also hosted their own categories for beach tennis, with Davis Alano and Paul Aligaen winning the Men’s Division, Maggie Tirol and Adad Yu winning the Women’s Division, and Davis Alano and Maggie Tirol winning the Mixed Division.

The Beach Soccer category saw J2 of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo City emerge as champion. As for the Boracay Beach Volleyball category, Jackielyn Estoquia and Dhannylaine Mae Demontaño of Team Limitless were the champions of the Women’s Division while Clyde Nalangan and Dyle Nalangan of University of San Agustin were given the champion title for the Men’s Division.

ArenaPlus continues to stay involved in the local sports and leisure scenes, focusing on encouraging the growth and development of Philippine sports and culture even in areas outside of Metro Manila. The brand’s partnership with Love Boracay 2024 is equal parts an effort to support serious and casual athletes and bring more attention to sports that are not as commonly known or played in the country. Dedicated to Philippine sports as a whole, ArenaPlus saw Love Boracay 2024 Sportsfest as a way to reach a wider audience, while inspiring interest in outdoor sports.

BingoPlus and ArenaPlus proudly stand as flagship brands under Digiplus Interactive  Corp., solidifying its position as a leading gaming and leisure provider in the country. For more updates, visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus.net or download the apps now via the App Store and Google Play.