Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Blackpanda Unveils The State of Cyber Security Vulnerabilities in SME Across Asia Pacific

Blackpanda team shown from left to right: Ruck Del Rosario, Digital Forensics and Incident Response Specialist; Pauline Ong, Director of Customer Success; May Tan, Marketing Manager; Evelyn Del Monte, Managing Director - Philippines , Gene Yu, Founder & CEO;  Valerie Koh, Marketing Analyst.


Blackpanda, Asia’s premier digital forensics and cyber security firm, today released its first proprietary study, analyzing cyber security vulnerabilities in SME companies across the Asia Pacific region. For this study, Blackpanda utilizes in-house external attack surface management (ASM) scan to identify top vulnerabilities that represent significant risk level where threats are recommended to be resolved as soon as practicable or within a matter of days to prevent potential infiltration by attackers to launch an attack. #Blackpanda 


The study reveals three major vulnerabilities that pose significant threats to regional security:
• Compromised Assets - Email breaches in the high-risk category constitute 71.68% of the total risk level combined, spotlighting a significant risk of information leakage and phishing attacks. This category represents the most extensive vulnerability, underscoring a critical need for advanced threat detection and incident response strategies.
• Exposed Web Services - Making up 69.92% of high-risk exposed services issues, vulnerabilities in web services indicate a widespread vulnerability to web-based attacks which can disrupt operations and compromise customer data. 
• Known Software Vulnerabilities - Medium-risk level accounts for 59.96% of the system security issues where these vulnerabilities emerge as a crucial focus area, with practicable actions required to prevent data breaches that could lead to severe financial and reputational damage.


"The majority of the cyber incidents we encounter can be traced back to fundamental vulnerabilities that remain unpatched. Just as a burglar can easily enter through an unlocked door or opened window, cyber attackers exploit these open vulnerabilities to breach systems. As part of our commitment at Blackpanda, and through our Pandamatics Underwriting arm, we are not only focused on responding to these emergencies but also on significantly reducing the occurrence of such attacks across the entire market. This data isn’t just a collection of statistics; it's a roadmap showing us where the industry needs to direct its attention and resources to fortify its defences effectively." ~Gene Yu, CEO of Blackpanda Group


In addition to the top three vulnerabilities, the study also draws attention to other significant security risks, including:
• Database and remote access services vulnerabilities, emphasizing the importance of robust access controls.
• System services and DNS configuration issues, highlighting the need for improved security practices.
• Underlying risks from software misconfiguration and SSL/TLS configuration gaps, which can lead to severe breaches if not addressed promptly.

"In the Philippines, we see a significant number of high severity vulnerabilities that allow attackers to compromise administrative credentials, gain unauthorized access to email accounts, or disrupt server operations. Given this context, robust security measures and proactive threat management aren't just advisable—they are critical. Our incident response capabilities are tailored to address these challenges head-on, ensuring that businesses can safeguard their digital environments effectively." ~Evelyn Del Monte, Managing Director for Blackpanda Philippines



Blackpanda's comprehensive study not only maps out current vulnerabilities but also provides tailored recommendations for businesses to enhance their security architectures. By implementing the suggested strategies, companies and national agencies can significantly mitigate the risk of cyber attacks, protecting their data and operations against increasingly sophisticated threats.


IR-1 by Blackpanda 
Blackpanda's flagship solution, IR-1, integrates top-tier incident response, continuous vulnerability assessments, and seamless access to cyber insurance—all in one SaaS platform. IR-1 is a yearly subscription designed for small and medium sized enterprises in the Asia Pacific region, combining proactive cyber security tools and hassle-free incident response.


Instantaneous, Round-the-Clock Incident Response
One of the standout features of IR-1 is its 24/7 fixed-cost incident response service. This feature guarantees businesses immediate access to expert support in the event of a cyber incident, which is crucial for minimizing downtime and mitigating damage swiftly. The fixed-cost model also helps businesses better manage their cybersecurity budgets by preventing unexpected costs associated with emergency responses.


Proactive Continuous Vulnerability Scanning
At the heart of IR-1’s preventative strategy is its continuous vulnerability scanning capability. This service works tirelessly to monitor and detect vulnerabilities within an organization’s digital environment. By identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities early, businesses can significantly reduce their exposure to potential cyberattacks and enhance their overall security posture.


Streamlined Access to Cyber Insurance
Another innovative aspect of IR-1 is its automated cyber insurance access, available specifically in Singapore and Hong Kong through Pandamatics Underwriting, an entity of the Blackpanda Group. This feature simplifies the process of obtaining cyber insurance, allowing businesses to quickly secure coverage that aligns with their risk management strategies. 


A Unified Solution for Enhanced Cybersecurity
"IR-1 equips our clients with robust tools and resources essential for both preventing and mitigating cyberattacks. We are not resting on our laurels; rather, we have several significant upgrades scheduled for this year. Our subscribers can look forward to rolling out even more advanced, technology-driven solutions tailored to their needs." ~Evelyn Del Monte, Managing Director for Blackpanda Philippines

In the Philippines, Blackpanda’s channel network partners are: Exclusive Networks (EN), and iSecure Network (ISN).

For more information about Blackpanda follow their social media accounts at:













About BLACKPANDA GROUP
Blackpanda is Asia's leading local cyber incident response firm, dedicated to delivering world-class digital emergency response services to businesses in the region. We help businesses strengthen their cyber resilience and secure their digital operations by supporting them with incident response delivered by local experts.

Our mission is to make cyber resilience achievable for all, with services and solutions designed for the Asian market. For more info, please visit https://www.blackpanda.com. 

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Federal Land’s The Grand Midori Ortigas: Primed to be an Urban Domain of Zen

One Bedroom Unit at The Grand Midori Ortigas. Artist’s Perspective.


In today's fast-paced world where every moment seems filled with the bustle of daily life, finding moments of tranquility and inner peace is becoming increasingly vital. The Grand Midori Ortigas by premier real estate developer Federal Land, Inc. offers two towers of Zen living in the heart of Ortigas Center, fostering simplicity, harmony, and balance.  


Award-Winning Architecture 

Zen-inspired amenity deck of The Grand Midori Ortigas. Artist’s Perspective.


To design serene living spaces deeply rooted in the principles of Zen, Federal Land tapped into the creativity of the world-renowned Tange Associates. The Tokyo-based architectural firm forged the authentic infusion of Japanese design and innovation into the building's architecture to create a unique living experience that is both elegant and purposeful. 

Evidence of the excellence of its world-class design are the recognitions The Grand Midori Ortigas garnered in the previous years. International Property Awards Asia-Pacific awarded the project the Best Residential High-Rise Architecture in the Philippines in 2022, while PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards named The Grand Midori Ortigas the Best Condo Architectural Design and Highly Commended for Best High-End Condo Development (Metro Manila) in 2023. 


A Solid Investment Choice 

Zen-inspired amenity deck of The Grand Midori Ortigas. Artist’s Perspective.


The Grand Midori Ortigas isn't just a place to call home—it's an investment in one of Metro Manila's most coveted real estate hot spots. 

Investors are provided with thoughtfully designed units for lease, which can benefit from rising prices and improving rental yields because of its central location in Ortigas Center, as well as its proximity to Makati and BGC. Moreover, with the rising demand for half-way homes within the metro due to return-to-office mandates, investing in Ortigas Center promises to provide lucrative returns for discerning investors. 


A Sensible Lifestyle 

Studio Unit at The Grand Midori Ortigas. Artist’s Perspective.


To encourage a balanced life, the property showcases a wide variety of amenities to offer a much-needed break from the daily grind. 

Those who wish to engage in an active lifestyle would love the convenience of the fitness gym, yoga room, exercise lawn, and lap pool on the amenity floor. The game room, videoke room, play area, and Jacuzzi are available for downtime after work or school. There's a study lounge and a conference room for those working or studying remotely but wish to do it out of their own units from time to time. The Zen garden is perfect for those yearning for peace and quiet. 

With its Zen-inspired spaces and prime location, The Grand Midori Ortigas is a compelling option for home seekers looking to lead a well-balanced life that embraces urban conveniences with serenity and bliss. 

For inquiries, visit www.midori.com.ph or email invest@federalland.ph to book a private viewing. 

HOTEL101-NISEKO GOES GREEN, to be the First CASBEE-Rated Sustainable hotel in Niseko, Hokkaido Japan

(In photo taken today, Kamita Sekkei Chief Executive Officer Hirokazu Bando, Technocrew Managing Director Akira Hiraoka, Hotel101 Global Chief Executive Officer Marriana Yulo- Luccini, and Iwata Chizaki Construction General Manager Makoto Miyoshi)


April 19, 2024, Hotel101 Global Pte. Ltd, (“Hotel101 Global”) in partnership with esteemed engineering firms Kamita Sekkei and Technocrew, alongside the contractor of Hotel101-Niseko project - Iwata Chizaki Inc., signs its commitment to the creation of the environmentally forward Hotel101-Niseko. This endeavor cements the partners' joint vision for a property that not only meets  eco-efficient  operational  standards  but  also  sets  a  benchmark  for  sustainability  in  the region.

Hotel101-Niseko is set to become the first hotel in the whole of Niseko, Hokkaido Japan to secure CASBEE  rating.  CASBEE,  which  stands  for  the  Comprehensive  Assessment  System  for  Built Environment  Efficiency,  is  Japan’s  authoritative  framework  for  evaluating  the  environmental performance of buildings.

Kamita  Sekkei  and  Technocrew  bring  expertise  with  strong  portfolios  that  include  work  for Hokkaido University, the City of Sapporo, and the City of Obihiro, among others. Under the skilled construction of Iwata Chizaki Inc., known for the iconic Chitose International Airport, Hotel101- Niseko is poised to become a beacon of sustainable development. This partnership aligns closely with   the   values   laid   out   in   the   recently   signed   pact,   which   outlines   a   commitment   to environmentally responsible practices and the integration of smart systems to enhance efficiency. The structure of Hotel101-Niseko is designed to promote sustainability through green-inspired architecture and the use of technology that supports efficient and eco-friendly operations.

“We believe that sustainability is a core aspect of the Hotel101 brand which will enable it to thrive in a rapidly changing world. By integrating a sustainable mindset in the way that we build our hotels  as  well  as  sustainable  practices  in  our  day-to-day  hotel  operations,  we  protect  the environment, appeal to the new generation of eco-conscious guests, and reduce operational costs which helps ensure the long-term viability of Hotel101. In  extraordinary  environments  such  as  the  height  of  winter  in  Hokkaido,  it  is  not  an  easy endeavor to achieve a green rating and we are proud to announce that Hotel101-Niseko is set to be the first CASBEE-rated hotel in Niseko.” ~Hannah Yulo- Luccini, Hotel101 Global CEO

Achieving  a  CASBEE  rating  underlines  Hotel101-Niseko’s  role  as  a  leading  example  of  green hospitality  solutions,  showcasing  its  success  in  integrating  environmental  considerations  into every facet of its architecture and operations. Located on a 1.17-hectare site in Niseko-Hirafu, Hokkaido Prefecture, Hotel101-Niseko is positioned amid the region's natural scenery, chosen for its commitment to environmental preservation. Hotel101 Global aims to provide an eco-friendly hospitality experience that aligns with the environmental values of guests and meets the rigorous sustainability standards set by the local community.

"With  the  upcoming  Bullet  Train  to  go  straight  from  Tokyo  to  Niseko,  we  see  the  482  room Hotel101-Niseko project which is set to be one of the largest hotels in Niseko to soon become the top of mind hotel destination for both the local domestic Japanese and overseas tourists visiting Niseko, Hokkaido Japan. We see Hotel101 Global to be known globally as one of the most eco-friendly hotels globally." ~Edgar Injap Sia II, DoubleDragon Chairman

Hotel101-Fort as the Official Residence of Miss Philippines Earth 2024

Candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2024 pose at Hotel101-Fort, their Official Residence.


Hotel101-Fort, the largest hotel in Taguig City in terms of room inventory, with 606 HappyRooms, welcomes the candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2024 as its Official Residence. Miss Philippines Earth candidates will stay until April 22 before they head to Bukidnon for more activities and for the coronation night on May 11, 2024.

Hotel101-Fort Hotel Manager, Sherwinne Cabalang, warmly welcomes the ladies as they experience the hospitality the newly opened hotel provides.

“We are delighted to welcome these beautiful, vibrant, and cause-oriented ladies here at Hotel101-Fort and to offer them the comfort and convenience that the hotel provides to all our guests. Our signature HappyRoom is highlighted with beds from Emma Sleep, ensuring guest satisfaction by delivering a better night’s sleep and unbeatable comfort for each and every guest who stays with us.” ~Sherwinne Cabalang, Hotel101-Fort Hotel Manager

Hotel101-Fort signs agreement with Miss Philippines Earth as the OFFICIAL RESIDENCE of the Miss Philippines Earth 2024. Together in the photo are Hotel101-Fort Hotel Manager Mr. Sherwinne Cabalang and Hotel101 Group Head of Public Relations Mr. Brian Ong, together with Carousel Production’s VP and Project Director Ms. Peachy Veneracion and Ms. Reina Esguerra.


Meanwhile, Ms. Melissa “Peachy” Veneracion, the Vice President and Project Director of Carousel Productions Inc., the organizer of Miss Philippines Earth, thanked Hotel101 for partnering yet again with Miss Philippines Earth as its official hotel residence and for supporting its environmental causes.

“We are very happy to once again be partners with Hotel101, experiencing their newest hotel, Hotel101-Fort! The delegates are fortunate and pleased to be here because of the exquisite services and facilities, and most especially because of the beautiful and comfortable rooms. Our winners, as well as the candidates, are expected to spearhead projects that promote sustainability and encourage people to adopt a lifestyle that prevents further harm to the planet, which aligns with the 101 Stay Green campaign of the Hotel101 Group.” ~Ms. Melissa “Peachy” Veneracion, the Vice President and Project Director of Carousel Productions Inc., the organizer of Miss Philippines Earth

Candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2024 pose at Hotel101-Fort, their Official Residence.


The Miss Philippines Earth 2024 pageant is the 24th edition of the national competition that advocates for environmental protection. 


Candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2024 pose at Hotel101-Fort, their Official Residence.


Hotel101 Group is a subsidiary of DoubleDragon Corporation, which operates Hotel101-Manila and Hotel101-Fort, Injap Tower Hotel in Iloilo City, and Jinjiang Inn Philippines in Ortigas, Makati, and Boracay. The Hotel101 Group has unveiled its direction to begin expanding abroad, aiming to make Hotel101 the first global Filipino hotel chain.

Download the Hotel101 App via the App Store or Google Play to earn rewards, get the latest deals, and to Stay Happy at Hotel101.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Great Savings from Our Home Grand Central 3-Day Sale



Planning for a home refresh this summer?   As temperature rises, so do the savings at OUR HOME GRAND CENTRAL on its 3-Day Sale from April 19-21! 

Now is the best time to shop for the home refresh that you’ve been wanting to do with OUR HOME’s great selections of home furniture, decor and accessories. Visit us and get inspirations for your living room, bedroom and dining room.   


Check out OUR HOME GRAND CENTRAL’s great offers:   






Save up to 80% off on great finds for your living room, bedroom and dining room. 

Get extra 10% off with SMAC and SMAC Prestige cards. 

And here’s more.  Get another extra 5% off when you pay straight or extra 10% off when you avail of our Buy Now Pay Later installment offer using qualified BDO Credit cards with a minimum purchase required. T&Cs apply.     

We assemble for free and we also offer free interior design advice to help you out with your home styling.  Visit us to know more of our great offers.   
 
OUR HOME has something for everyone.  So, what are you waiting for?  Head on to OUR HOME Grand Central located at the Lower Ground Level of SM City Grand Central where you can find great designs at great prices.   Call our personal shopper at 0917-8426069 / 0917-8424772 or check out  www.ourhome.ph.  

Monday, April 8, 2024

A Redefined UNIQLO Mall of Asia store reopens on May 17



Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has lined up big things for the much-anticipated reopening of its groundbreaking SM Mall of Asia (MOA) store on May 17, 2024 at the Level 2 & 3 of Mall of Asia’s North main mall.


Redefined store

UNIQLO’s original MOA store is finally set to open its doors once more after major updates. The newly revamped store comes with a bigger space and larger offerings.

The branch opened in 2012 as the global brand’s very first store in the Philippines, introducing Filipinos to UNIQLO’s stylish and functional everyday clothing. With its sprawling 1,550 square meters at that time, the store served thousands of customers in the largest mall in the country and remained as one of the go-to hubs for LifeWear.




On May 17, the all-new UNIQLO MOA store promises to be even bigger with a doubled-up floor space of over 3,000 square meters spread across two floors. Loyal and new customers alike will surely enjoy the store’s new layout and latest presentations, as the space evolves with the new lifestyles of Filipinos.


Redefined experiences

Aside from featuring a vast selection of LifeWear pieces, the all-new UNIQLO MOA store will also redefine the retail experience where in-store and online shopping comes hand-in-hand. Store-driven efforts such as same-day Click & Collect are set to give customers an integrated shopping experience with UNIQLO.




The all-new UNIQLO MOA store will also be the second store in the country to have UNIQLO Coffee and UTMe! Originally only available at UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store in Glorietta 5, UNIQLO Coffee and UTme! is coming to the MOA store to delight coffee lovers and art lovers, respectively.

UNIQLO Coffee in the Philippines presents locally sourced, high-quality coffee beans from Mt. Apo, and features goods and pastries that mix Filipino and Japanese flavors.

Meanwhile, the UTme! service lets customers customize shirts and tote bags with various designs from its library or their own creations and images. To celebrate the new opening, UNIQLO is expanding its UTme! line-up with new designs in collaboration with partners from the local community.


Redefined lifestyles

The UNIQLO MOA store offers the brand’s complete LifeWear collection for men’s, women’s, kids, and babies. The all-new store spotlights essentials that are made for all, such as, the UNIQLO Core T and UNIQLO BraTop collection. Collaboration pieces with world renowned designers and pop culture brands will also be available.

Mark your calendars on May 17 and join the eventful re-opening of the UNIQLO MOA store at Level 2 to 3 of MOA’s North main mall, sure to be filled with exciting surprises with a redefined shopping experience like no other.

To learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear, check out www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow https://www.facebook.com/UNIQLO.PH on Facebook and https://www.instagram.com/uniqlophofficial on Instagram and https://www.tiktok.com/@uniqlophofficial on TikTok.











About UNIQLO LifeWear
Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

 
About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing
UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang. With global sales of approximately 2.77 trillion yen for the 2023 fiscal year ending August 31, 2023 (US $18.92 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2023 rate of $1 = 146.2 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world's most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has a total of more than 2,400 UNIQLO stores across the world, including Japan, Asia, Europe and North America. The total number of stores across Fast Retailing's brands is now close to 3,600.

With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and changing the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere.  For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

UNIQLO Makes Summer Breezy with New Linen Collection

UNIQLO Makes Summer Breezy with New Linen Collection


Global apparel retailer UNIQLO this summer announces the latest updates to its linen collection, bringing even greater comfort to the pinnacle of natural materials. The expanded collection features 100% European Premium Linen, as well as linen blends with smooth rayon or soft cotton, offering styles with distinctly different textures. With the new lineup, Filipinos can enjoy a variety of designs and styles to suit every occasion.


Cool and comfortable Premium Linen, made with global standard materials
UNIQLO Premium Linen is made from flax cultivated in Western Europe, offering a smooth texture and quality luster. This season, MENS premium linen shirts newly come in a classic silhouette and many color options, which allow for a wide range of stylings. Additionally, UNIQLO Premium Linen is certified 100% European Flax™, which guarantees traceability through third-party verification. The plant fibers used in the fabric are cultivated with care for the environment, and no waste is generated during the production process.


Linen blends to maximize breathability and softness
In addition to the existing lineup of linen blend items, several new one-piece dresses have been introduced this season, combining the breathability and luster of linen with the softness and wrinkle resistance of cotton and rayon. These items are easy to style and perfect for everyday comfort. 

* In some products, other fabrics are also blended


■ 2024 Linen collection lineup (selected items)

Premium Linen

NEW MENS Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt Php 1,990

WOMENS Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt Php 1,990
 

Linen Blend

NEW WOMENS Linen Blend Square Neck Short Sleeve Dress Php 2,490

NEW WOMENS Linen Blend Camisole Dress Php 2,490

MENS Linen Blend Easy Pants Php 1,990

WOMENS Linen Blend Easy Pants Php 990

MENS Cotton Open Collar Shirt Php 1,490

WOMENS Linen Blend Jumpsuit Php 2,490


To learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear, check out www.uniqlo.com and follow @uniqlophofficial on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.












About UNIQLO LifeWear
Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.


About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing
UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang. With global sales of approximately 2.77 trillion yen for the 2023 fiscal year ending August 31, 2023 (US $18.92 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2023 rate of $1 = 146.2 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer. 

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world's most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has a total of more than 2,400 UNIQLO stores across the world, including Japan, Asia, Europe and North America. The total number of stores across Fast Retailing's brands is now close to 3,600.

With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere.  For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.