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Live Blog: #PeaceHack in MNL Making PH a Much Safer Place!

2016-09-25T13:36:00.002+08:00

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Live Blog: #PeaceHack an Event Soon To Change Philippines Forever

2016-09-24T14:23:00.002+08:00

Imagine a world where we don't have to cower in fear. Ever.

Our country alone has its fair share of violence and the worst part is each side thinks he's doing the "right" thing.

The rebels think they are fighting for a cause. The robbers think they are feeding their family. The terrorists instilling fear in the world to awaken society. It's a shady world we live in but I just got to hand out how villains are made. And a part of me was awakened when I have learned about a tech event that takes the world of peacekeeping into something scalable, accessible and most of all effective. The usage of technology and the internet in general has changed our lives dramatically and wind sweeping every economy, culture and movements. Learn how it can change yours.

#PeaceHackPH, an event that has sprouted in different parts of the globe that has enabled thinkers, designers and engineers to create apps and similar innovations that help nations in conflict have a chance at peace.

We are aware of the MILF, NPA, and most recently the coalition of drug empires cleaning up their ranks of untrusted pushers and pinning it down to trump today's government efforts.
Today, we are never safe. Heck, safety is an illusion we tell ourselves to get rid of fear from going about our daily mundane lives. But we all know what’s up we just either turn the other cheek or wait until it hits us like Miley’s ball.

In a world of sheep, we are being herded by wolves clothed in our carcass.

Those times we sweat up our backs from the humid jeepneys, or enter a crowded mall where everyone retreats for some cool air from the punishing heat wave outside just to justify our senseless window shopping habits, or even as we flicker our eyes from the enchanting REM dreams we are having in our very own homes… people (whose vision, execution and methods are far more unalike from our concept of what is right and just) are constantly at work.

They are currently

procuring arms for their next encounter,
devising the next train explosion,
gearing up for the next random drive-by shooting,
stalking at expats who’ll fit the bill for the next hostage drama,
laundering their way to vast fortune thereby emptying this nation’s hard earned coffers which could’ve been a new home from our Haiyan-struck lands,
planning to nuke a small country for coveting a small island,
mapping out the next tourist bus to take over and flaunt our security forces’ incompetence for all the world to see,
or despicably hacking their way to Malacanang servers to assassinate our man physically or for now, perceptibly.

Bystander Effect

Need I say more to show how worse we have become? Now you ask me why we should care. Seeing the faces of the victims plastered on the media and our NewsFeeds, did you ever stop to ask, “that could’ve been me.” Guess not. Why?

Because we may belittle our capacities as ordinary citizens to take action and change the world, or we may just be very busy trying to get by or make a living, or yet we have soiled our psychological innards with thoughts that we are better where we are.

I myself am guilty of the bystander effect every now and then. That may be the reason why I will be forever grateful and awestruck with the efforts non-profits and government sectors do to ease societal dilemma just like a hero who goes on excessive skirmishes to save his community from giant freaks.

That analogy actually makes the rest of us the bystanding townfolks who die along the course of the tale. I’ve been told that we could be captains of our own ships, heroes of our sagas, but then hardships of life has seemingly humbled us with so much discouragements that most of the nation has decided that they will never amount to anything and gave up trying.

That is what this #PeaceHackPH is for.

To give the power back to the Filipino people.

To let us do something collectively in order to move nations massively.

#PeaceHackPH

This global event which is currently happening live here in Manila, Philippines has a lot of guns along its belt. (pun intended)

Previous hackathons in Barcelona, Beirut, London and Washington DC has produced some great applications like:

London: a refreshing Tinder-style app to help connect with your neighbours, the other an online platform for people to find community events
Washington DC: intuitive an early warning app that uses big data to notify local orgs when public emotion changes towards a certain group, as in London, to help with community cohesion
Beirut: comprehensive wiki for Syrian refugees where important info can be readily shared
Barcelona: enables Syrian refugees to privately and securely geo-locate their contacts

Given the world-class pool of talent here in the Philippines’ capital, I am just in the edge of my seat of what these kids could come up with by tomorrow.

It’s freaking dead silent here and everyone is on their laptops unaware of the fact that they are making the biggest digital footprint that will soon change the way civilizations work in the future.

The rules are simple. Create a functional prototype that aims to Perceive, Educate, Alert, Communicate and Engage stakeholders in the nation's peacekeeping process. Top that and you may just bring home P50,000 in grand prize, P30,000 for the 2nd and P20,000 for the third one. Sponsored by Smart.

I’ll keep you guys updated. As for now, I’m off to do projects until the caffeine lasts. I don’t mind bumming over here at the quirky co-working space in Makati even if I was up all night after a barrage of business analysis work from my graveyard job as long as I get to be part of the future.

Thank you to International Alert for making things happen and for as long as I safely live, I will be forever by your side.

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Be a Hero: Save Thresher Sharks with a Click of Button #phsayyes #worldsayyes

2016-09-18T11:39:00.000+08:00

Did you know that Philippines is the only country that has established a thresher shark dive industry?

just why should you care?

We might be very busy going through the motions of trying to comply with what a civilized society expects of us but little do we know that by signing an online petition could make a difference to this world.

We claim we love life, love our country and love nature with our endless posts on Instagram and Facebook. But up until our actions would prove so, nothing we say now would mean anything.

By signing this petition on Change.org, which should btw take no more than a few seconds of your time, you would be declaring support to the communities in Moalboal, Cebu who depend on this diving industry to sustain their livelihood. They are still picking up the pieces after Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan has crushed every piece of their lives. While I was at home sheltered through that monstrous storm, they were the ones battling it tooth and eye.

And this is personal to me since I am a born Cebuano, a Filipino, and a human being who owes so much to nature for letting me witness the most beautiful things despite the harsh realities of this life. And I know you have it in your heart to do the same, to be that friend who not only thinks of himself but whose heart is so big that he or she can also extend compassion to the world especially to distressed communities, and vulnerable animals. I say vulnerable since they are safer here than be in the harbors of Hong Kong and Taiwan where they are being slaughtered for their fins. And if there is anything that I have learned in this world, it is that, the most painful cries come from those you cannot hear.

And if you're a visual learner, here's a smashing slideshare presentation you wanna immerse at.

how can you act on it?

click sign this petition at Change.org and you're done!

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How to Create a #BetterWorld For Pawikans in 2 Minutes

2016-05-16T06:41:00.000+08:00

The Pawikans have been on earth more than most of us ever did, and ever will. And we owe it to them to preserve their species since we are the very reason why they've become extinct. And ordinary people like you and me don't have to go through extraordinary lengths to make that happen because some people have taken it to their hearts to do just that.

Have you known that they actually imprint on the sands where they have hatched and will go back after a very long time to lay eggs even after circumnavigating the world? That's an unmatched loyalty you can't even compare to your last ex. Joking aside, the least we could do now is to either continue going through our little lives or support the people who takes care of creatures too meek to even defend themselves. That's exerting effort in a cause bigger than themselves.

The pawikan lived for over 200 million years, making it the oldest living reptile in the world! Congrats to Aboitiz Foundation for finding #betterways and the next generation would still be able to see these magnificent creatures. #betterworld #jayseeblabs www.youtube.com/JayseePingkian
A photo posted by www.jaysee.me (@jayseeblabs) on Apr 4, 2016 at 4:41am PDT

I'm telling you the story of Aboitiz Foundation's efforts to save the breeding ground of these magnificent creatures.

PIA reports:

The Aboitiz Foundation has launched a campaign that aims to raise funds for the protection and preservation of the critically endangered hawksbill turtle in Punta Dumalag, Davao City, one of the last few remaining natural habitats for species of its kind.

Entitled “#BetterWorld for the Pawikans”, the fundraising drive will not only secure the sanctuary for the hawksbill turtles but also spread greater public awareness on how everyone can help to ensure its survival amid climate change and environmental degradation.

To take part in creating a BetterWorld for the pawikans, visit aboitizfoundation.org and click the 'Donate' button. Use #BetterWorld in your social media posts to show your support for the cause.

Now, busy working class of the Philippines, let's get to work putting this country back on track, one effortless action at a time.

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Gave Up But Holding On

2016-05-08T18:24:00.001+08:00

It’s amazing how colourful this season is in this country. With all the revelry and festivities that matches our tourism campaign, our elections are something to behold. That is why it should not surprise us that the whole world stares in awe. Unlike our predictable local primetime drama themes, Philippine elections almost always ends in a shocking twist of events that even Olivia Pope herself would be drawn into.

Amplifying people’s voices.

If there’s anything that this political phase will prove, it is that it has been a people-driven election. After some articles that you can find online, you will realize that Filipinos are social media savvy (despite having the most expensive broadband and crippling internet speeds as per Rappler infographics). Regardless of societal class since we have affordable prepaid data offerings including Free Facebook and China smartphones, more and more people have gained access to information and have filled where traditional media has ceased to feed: live, raw, and unfiltered crowdsourced news and in contrast, tabloid materials and memes. That is why PR stunts has no place in this country anymore, because ordinary netizens can now be heard, information can be verified real-time and posts can be shared with unimaginable reach especially if it is entertaining in nature (very cultural I guess).

We’ve been poor too long to have enough of BS and I know our frontrunners could’ve done better and must’ve kept it real. Social media managers must be on their knees by now scrambling at such colossal numbers and I could never be more proud for we have definitely achieved the pinnacle of democracy. Everyone has the right to be heard (and I’m looking at you Daniel Padilla).

I’m not saying we should boycott traditional media especially that people have been trending biases lately. We need curated information every now and then but we just have to keep on looking out and choose what should seep into our consciousness and be heedful for it always affects our decisions in life especially as big as national issues.

I am actually proud of the healthy discussion that happens in Facebook comments since people have something passionate about. And I was that same type of person last election when I helped campaign for Gibo and when he lost, I’ve realized that either the Filipino nation has been influenced by the media demonization of the predecessor or they are just not that ready for a visionary leader. It’s a popularity game, I get that and maybe he was just ahead of his time. He should’ve tried Senate just to get his name on the door.

Anyway, I still mourn for his loss and maybe that may have unconsciously sabotaged my decision not to vote this year or campaign anyone for that matter.

The hassle of defending your work leave despite a critical workday and the costs of booking flights was just too much to bear, and even transferring precincts is a mess in itself.

Change starts with me.

I just want you to realize that while you give so much of your hope to the candidates of your heart’s desires, please know that the change we want for this country starts… with... us.

After travelling abroad, I have come to realize that people in developing countries need no intimidation from power figures just to abide the law except if you’re North Korean. For even as simple as not littering or smoking in designated areas only, ordinary people have incorporated civil obedience and common courtesy to their daily routine. Don’t even get me started with traffic rules for the motorists and pedestrians. I’m no saint either but we’re just so bad at that.

I may have lost faith in the electoral process considering I am so statistically insignificant but I have never lost faith in the people of our country. We have good hearts. Strong ones even. And we have proven that time and time again. We just need to do way better.

The leader we need.

We are currently reaping the economic structures that were the unpopular measures that Gloria did and we see such growing numbers in the papers and I’m just not sure how it translates in terms of the average Filipino since the social division here is so wide, we can place EDSA in between it. I don’t even know what PNoy did to claim all credit.

We just need the smartest governance and everything else will fall into place and knowing the types of people here, we also need an iron fist, and there is a reason why such had worked for Singapore.

Whoever you decided to support, just think about the vast discrepancy of having the leader you want versus the leader this country needs and that should put your thoughts into perspective. This world is bigger than us and the challenges we face.

And I’m glad that our major networks have aired and organized their own debates much like the US elections and it makes me tear up a little that we are learning from our big brothers in the west. Their character, vision, and platforms have been properly laid out and I watched them all in YouTube and I was more entertained than informed because their words are just close to heart, tackling issues that we all or someone we know is going through.

We just have to keep tabs on how they answered such, so that we can help our leaders achieve it when they have taken their seats. Yes, you heard me right, help. We help them get there but we are in no place to wait for them to do their job since the government comprises of the officials and the people. This is a partnership as much as marriage is for couples. We commit. We must deliver. We may not have direct influence to them but by being working hard or positively winning over those around us, the change we always wanted might just be around the corner.

Treasure real relationships.

These candidates don’t know who you are so why jeopardize your relationships with your family and friends. It’s just not worth it. So raise your white flags and make amends to people you have offended knowingly or not, and let’s get our hard caps on and get this country back on track.

And for your information, get your buy one take one treat in Starbucks if you will vote.

Please share and spread love.

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Manila's First Ever 'ECOUTURE: Greener Design for a #BetterWorld'

2016-04-19T10:53:00.002+08:00

I'm all about making this world a better place and it always energizes me when I get to promote efforts from people who make it happen.

One such organization is the Aboitiz Foundation, the CSR of the Aboitiz Group, one of the nation's biggest conglomerates and not too long ago they've had a big event held in Metro Manila's most fashionable mall, SM Aura to celebrate young Filipino ingenuity dubbed as Ecotoure which brings together the next who's who in the industry while utilizing materials from the different business groups.

University of the Philippines, La Salle and Asia Pacific College competing for #GreenFashionRevolution for a #betterworld Kudos to Young Pinoy Creatives! www.jaysee.me
A photo posted by www.jaysee.me (@jayseeblabs) on Jan 30, 2016 at 12:12am PST

Sustainability while making pieces high-end is the goal of reusing such materials into runway-worthy clothing and accessories. And these budding fashion students from the metro's biggest unis did more than that. They embody the very essence why we should do business, and that is to give back to the community and the world.

Ecotoure Event Photo Stories Here

While we're too busy giving into too much consumerism, have we even asked ourselves when was the last time we recycled something? And I'm not even talking about going back to the one that got away but a thing bigger than ourselves. This is environmental protection and if we do our little parts every now and then, then we are contributing to the bigger efforts of living to fight another day.

We are giving the next generations a chance to live a better world, a mantra this organization lives by. And I am not just encouraging you to buy what you only need, but to give away what you don't. Or better yet rethink the way you use your possessions so they have more value to you or others and we all know that doesn't only apply to our wardrobe. Think bigger. And the life you save in the end might be yours one day.

De La Salle-College of St. Benilde bags top prize at 1st Aboitiz Green Fashion Revolution in Manila With a striking blue-white portfolio highlighting the pressing issue of water pollution, De La Salle-College of St. Benilde (DLS-CSB) was declared the grand prize winner at the Aboitiz Green Fashion Revolution 2016 last January 30, the first ever to be staged in Manila.

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Accenture Gave Close To Million Pesos; Awesome Apps That Will Change Philippines

2015-09-15T09:40:00.001+08:00

Accenture “Program the Future” Competition Recognizes Top Technology Apps Developed by Students

Winning apps promote environment protection & public health

Accenture in the Philippines recently concluded a competition, titled “Program the Future: The Accenture Technology Campus Challenge 2015,” that yielded innovative apps developed by high performing college students to help address environmental and public health and safety issues.

Of the nearly 80 entries received from colleges and universities across the Philippines, the top 10 overall teams were chosen — five teams each for the Games App Challenge and App of the Future Challenge categories.

The champion teams of each category won Php 200,000 and Php 250,000 worth of prizes respectively and an additional Php 50,000 for their respective schools. Meanwhile, the runner-up team for the Games App Challenge was awarded Php 100,000 worth of prizes and the runner-up for the App of the Future Challenge received Php150,000 worth of prizes.

Earth-saving mobile game app

Team Technosaur from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) emerged as the champion in the Games App Challenge for developing “Modern Sweeper,” a 5-in-1 mobile game that challenges players to protect and save the earth. Team members Princess Sicat, Fenela Bagalayos, Marco Francisco, and Paulo Santiago created a game that shows real-life problems that revolve around recycling, waste management, pollution, and dynamite fishing.

Games App Challenge runner-up Team EChO from the Cebu Institute of Technology (CIT) University highlighted the significance of teaching water conservation to children (ages five to nine) thru their “Water Warrior” mobile game. Team EChO is comprised of Chum Keji Ocan, Jobelle Gerasta, Mark Joseph Fernandez and Junjie Sumalinog.

Team GwaPro and Team Creativs, both from the University of the Philippines Cebu, along with Team Earth Rangers from the University of San Jose Recoletos, completed this year’s finalists in the Games App Challenge category.

Save power with the futuristic home automation app

Team UCL from the University of the Philippines took the top prize in the App of the Future Challenge with a home automation assistant app called “Irina.” According to Romelio Tavas, Jr., Jasper Mendoza, Jake Sabandal, and Randy Beros, their team was inspired by the Internet of Things. “Irina” enables users to command appliances to turn off on their own, present electric consumption in peso value, identify which appliance consumes the most electricity, and help determine electricity consumption trends on a monthly basis.

Team Spectrum’s Charlie Ahl Arreglo, Princess Lykken Abella, Antonio Sotto, Jr., and Joyce Marie Montegrande, also from CIT University, received the runner-up trophy. They developed “Golden Garbage, a waste segregation Android app that helps users locate nearby junk shops and provides information on the recyclable items accepted and their corresponding costs.

De La Salle’s Team CoDiverse, University of the Philippines Diliman’s The In-code-ables and AMA Computer Learning Center, College of Meycauayan’s Team MAX were also part of the top 5 teams in the App of the Future Challenge category.

Skills development of IT students

Now on its second year, Program the Future seeks to encourage talented youth to use technology to create a greater future for Filipinos and the country. The competition is a testament to Accenture’s continued commitment to enhance the skills of today’s Information Technology (IT) students.

Ambe Tierro, Technology Lead of Accenture in the Philippines and chairman of the panel of judges, commended all the students for creating very impressive apps that exceeded the judges’ expectations.

“The apps that you developed, in addition to the teamwork, collaboration and passion you showed, are proof that our country’s future is in good hands. May you continue to realize that you can use your talents and skills to make a difference,” said Tierro.

In addition to Tierro, the finalists were evaluated by Prof. John Williams of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), ABS-CBN’s Chief Digital Officer Donald Patrick Lim, and some of Accenture’s top executives, including Country Managing Director Lito Tayag, Digital Lead JP Palpallatoc, Platform Lead Chucky Castro, and Delivery Director for the Avanade unit Stephen Alba.

Team Technosaur

Team Technosaur from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), developer of the game app “Modern Sweeper,” is this year’s Champion in the Games App Category of Program the Future: The Accenture Technology Campus Challenge 2015. Back row (from left to right): Chucky Castro, Platform Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Louise Sabariaga, Country Marketing Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Cydelle Rondaris, Dean, College of Engineering and Technology (CET), PLM; Ambe Tierro, Technology Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; and Donald Patrick Lim, Chief Digital Officer, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Front row (from left to right): Charito Molina, Faculty, Computer Studies Department, PLM and Leisyl Ocampo, Chairperson, Department of Computer Studies, PLM; Team Technosaur members: Marco Francisco, Princess Joy Sicat, Fenella Mae Bagalayos and John Paulo Santiago; Alvine Aurelio, Team Coach, Accenture Technology in the Philippines; JP Palpallatoc, Digital Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Atty. Crisanto Saruca, Jr., Officer in Charge, Metro Manila Development Authority’s Traffic Discipline Office; and Jesper Madsen, Country Human Resources Lead, Accenture in the Philippines. Photo taken by Thaddy Boniquit, Accenture Photographers Club.

Team UCL

Team UCL of UP Diliman won top prize in the App of the Future Challenge of Program the Future: The Accenture Technology Campus Challenge 2015. Back row (from left to right): Chucky Castro, Platform Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Louise Sabariaga, Country Marketing Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; and Donald Patrick Lim, Chief Digital Officer, ABS-CBN. Front row (from left to right): Ambe Tierro, Technology Lead of Accenture in the Philippines; Team UCL’s Romelio Tavas, Jr., Randy Beros, Jake Sabandal, and Jasper Mendoza; Prof. Nestor Tiglao, their coach; JP Palpallatoc, Digital Lead of Accenture in the Philippines; Atty. Crisanto Saruca, Jr., Officer in Charge, Metro Manila Development Authority’s Traffic Discipline Office; and Jesper Madsen, Country Human Resources Lead, Accenture in the Philippines.

Team EChO

Team EChO from CIT University who developed the game app “Water Warrior,” 1st runner-up in the Games App Category of Program the Future: The Accenture Technology Campus Challenge 2015. Front row (from left to right): Chucky Castro, Platform Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Louise Sabariaga, Country Marketing Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Ambe Tierro, Technology Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; and Donald Patrick Lim, Chief Digital Officer, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Back row (from left to right): Cherry Lyn Sta. Romana, Dean, College of Computer Studies, CIT University; Mark Joseph Fernandez, Junjie Sumalinog, Jobelle Gerasta, and Chum Keji Ocan of Team EChO; JP Palpallatoc, Digital Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Atty. Crisanto Saruca, Jr., Officer in Charge, Metro Manila Development Authority’s Traffic Discipline Office; and Jesper Madsen, Country Human Resources Lead, Accenture in the Philippines.

Team Spectrum

Team Spectrum from CIT University, 1st Runner-up in the App of the Future Challenge, developed the “Golden Garbage” mobile app. Back row (from left to right): Chucky Castro, Platform Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Louise Sabariaga, Country Marketing Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; and Donald Patrick Lim, Chief Digital Officer, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation. Front row (from left to right): Ambe Tierro, Technology Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Victoria Ocay, Team Coach, Accenture Technology in the Philippines; Cherry Lyn Sta. Romana, Dean, College of Computer Studies, CIT-U; Team Spectrum members: Antonio Sotto, Jr., Charlie Ahl Arreglo, Joyce Marie Montegrande and Princess Lykken Abella; JP Palpallatoc, Digital Lead, Accenture in the Philippines; Atty. Crisanto Saruca, Jr., Officer in Charge, Metro Manila Development Authority’s Traffic Discipline Office; and Jesper Madsen, Country Human Resources Lead, Accenture in the Philippines.

This is a press release.
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I Published A Photobook And What's Inside Will Make You Love Philippines More

2015-08-24T18:30:00.000+08:00

I encourage everyone to take refuge in the country's best kept havens solo or with loved ones, and get to discover how magnificent Philippines is and grow as a better cultured person along the way.

Immerse yourself in the celebration of life through explosive festivals, rich well-woven tales of history, awe-inspiring natural wonders and exotic flavorful platescapes.

Promising to spread the world with nothing but awesomeness, I took it upon myself to compile the best photos from my journeys and hopefully this travelbug masterpieces will bite your way to your next adventure.

We have information of enormous wealth that itineraries are planned in a matter of minutes and planes are booked in a touch of an app. Our generation has virtually no excuse as the best spots in the nation have been chartered, documented and most likely, blogged or reviewed on travel portals.

Love and support local industries and service providers, travel light, take time to breathe it all in before getting distracted, and when exploring, behave like the locals and live the golden rule. While you're at it, splash on some SPF protecting because your best days are about to come.

I am proud to introduce
AwesomePH!

The book is available for US shipping only in paperback and hardcover editions thru Amazon.com. E-Book Versions are available too.

You can also definitely enjoy the pages for free below...

"AwesomePH" Coffee Table book

is also available in ebook, Softcover and Hardcover version

in Amazon!

Other books I've made:

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The Most Relevant Tech Startup Conference Happens in Manila

2015-06-28T07:29:00.000+08:00

In line with its activism to bring small businesses in center of global commerce, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Philippine startup community, has organized Slingshot MNL, the most relevant tech startup conference in Asia today.

“Equitable and inclusive growth can only be attained when an enabling environment promotes the full participation of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in global trade,” DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo said.

Domingo, as chair of the newly organized APEC 2015 Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT), advocates the advancement of MSEs as an important part of the country’s quest to enhance regional economic incorporation and the fulfilment of fair and all-encompassing growth.

“In organizing Slingshot MNL, we aim to gather promising startups in the region and present them with potential mentors, investors, and business partners,” DTI Undersecretary Ponciano Manalo Jr. said.

SlingshotMNL will take place on July 6 to 7, 2015 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Manila. The two-day conference will highlight dialogs with leading figures in the international startup community such as

Startup Chile founder Nicolas Shea,
Hugh Mason from leading Asian investment firm JFDI Asia, and
professor Richard Dasher from Stanford’s Graduate School of Business.

The conference will also display the products and services of local startups. Apart from general assembly sessions, seminars, and fireside chats, it will also feature a pitching contest and a lineup of local startup exhibitors.

The conference hopes to attract heads of industry, startup incubators, business accelerators, investment and venture capital firms from the United States, Latin America and Asia, as well as successful startup businesses such as UBER, GrabTaxi, Ashoka, Rags2Riches, and AirBnb.

SlingshotMNL is set to cover a variety of themes to help startups absorb tellingly in international operations.

These topics include

understanding hubs of innovation,
opportunities in tech startup investing,
redefining scale in the global market place,
impact entrepreneurship; startup ecosystem support, and the
role of universities in the startup community.

SSMNL LIST OF MEETINGS	START DATE	END DATE
Day 1 - July 6, Monday
Startup Demo Day by DOST	07/06/2015 05:00 PM	07/06/2015 06:00 PM
Make Something People Want by Kalibrr	07/06/2015 05:00 PM	07/06/2015 05:30 PM
Tools for Your Business by Atlassian	07/06/2015 05:00 PM	07/06/2015 05:30 PM
How to Protect Your Business by Intellectual Property Office	07/06/2015 05:00 PM	07/06/2015 06:00 PM
Day 2 - July 7, Tuesday
Start Up in the Cloud an IBM Pitching Competition	07/07/2015 02:35 PM	07/07/2015 04:35 PM
Startups Demo Day	07/07/2015 02:35 PM	07/07/2015 04:35 PM
Innovation Hubs Workshop to be facilitated by Ideaspace	07/07/2015 02:35 PM	07/07/2015 03:35 PM

“At the heart of every successful startup is a great idea. Slingshot MNL will be a showcase of the greatest of those ideas –a showcase of the incredible things that have already been achieved by startups, and of all that we can still achieve together,” said Earl Martin Valencia, co-founder and President of IdeaSpace Foundation, an accelerator for Philippine tech startups.

Register now at http://www.slingshotmnl.org/

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Have a Business Idea That Can Improve the Lives of Others? BPI Will Pay You For It!

2015-06-28T07:16:00.001+08:00

Are you an entrepreneur with a social mission? Or maybe you have a business idea that solves a problem.

Then make it shine bright and help improve the lives of Filipinos in the BPI Foundation Sinag Challenge.

The basic aim of this challenge is to discover, recognize and support young social entrepreneurs who can help uplift Filipino communities.

How to Apply

Apply now by downloading the application form online or by directly filling out an online application form available on the contest website.

Mechanics

Around 20-30 participants will move on to the Semi-Finals round wherein they will be invited to attend a 6-day Business Bootcamp. From there, ten (10) will compete in the Final Round where they will make a pitch presentation, consisting of oral and PowerPoint presentations before the panel of judges and an audience.

Prizes

Five (5) winners will be rewarded with P200,000 cash + undergo a structured mentoring program over a period of 6 months + opportunity to set up an office at the Ateneo Impact Hub + an access to finance.

From among these winners, one (1) will be named the Grand Winner and will receive additional cash prize worth P300,000.

The 5 non-winners will not go home empty handed because they will receive P50,000 each.

Requirements

Individuals and/or groups, 18-35 years old
Local residents with beneficiaries in the Philippines
Leads an existing social enterprise in operation for not more than 3 years and being implemented in specific marginalized communities or social sectors in the country
The social business addresses a specific social problem and aimed at generating a defined social impact
The social enterprise is financially sustainable
The enterprise has not received cumulative funding in excess of $50,000 or P2 million
If you don't have a social enterprise running, you must at least have a definite social enterprise idea or concept in mind, but need guidance in order to plan and start the social business

Contest Mechanics

Log on to sinag.bpifoundation.org and download the application form. You can also choose to fill out an application form online
Send your application form to bpisinag@gmail.com with subject "BPISinagEntry_Lastname, Firstname, Middleinitial "
Competition Stages
Selection Round
A panel of screeners will select the top 20-30 participants from the entries submitted
Elimination /Semi- Final Round
Five (5) judges will select the ten (10) Finalists who will make a Pitch Presentation in the Finals
Finalists will be invited to attend the 6-day Business Bootcamp after which they will compete for the Top Ten Finalist slots
Final Round
Each finalist will make a pitch presentation, consisting of oral and PowerPoint presentations before the Panel of Judges and an audience
Each finalist will be given a maximum of 7 minutes to deliver their pitch presentation
After each pitch presentation, the panel of jurors will be given a maximum of 5 minutes for questions addressed to the finalist
The criteria and scoring system with a scoring sheet will be distributed to all jurors ahead of the judging. There will be one scoring sheet per finalist or business plan
A panel of five (5) judges will select the five (5) winners and the Grand Champion

Judging Criteria

Selection Round

40% Potential to attain desired social impact
30% Strong business model – financial and market potential
30% Innovative approach

Elimination Round

33.3% Business Model, Mission, Vision & Objectives (entrepreneurial spirit, mission & vision, logic & feasibility; realistic & sound objectives)
33.3% Market Strategies & Competitive Analysis (soundness; depth of market knowledge)
33.4% Design & Development Plan (logic, implementability, comprehensiveness of business model; supportive of the social value proposition)

Final Round

20% Business Model, Mission, Vision & Objectives (entrepreneurial spirit, mission & vision, logic & feasibility; realistic & sound objectives)
20% Market Strategies & Competitive Analysis (soundness; depth of market knowledge)
20% Design & Development Plan (logic, implementability, comprehensiveness of business model; supportive of the social value proposition)
20% Financial Plan (realistic projections consistent with development plan)
10% Management & Organization Plan (managerial experience, cohesiveness & efficiency)
10% Written Plan/Pitch Presentation (Clear, concise, well-written/well-presented interesting business plan)

If your group lands in the semi-finals, you can only send a maximum of one (1) representative to the Bootcamp

The panel of judges for the selection of finalists and winners will consist of business educators, social entrepreneurs, social development experts, and marketing/functional specialists nominated by BPI Foundation and ADMU-John Gokongwei School of Management

The decision of the panel of judges is final and irrevocable

Contest Period: Submission of entries until July 20, 2015
October 6, 2015 - Selection of winners

Contest Prize

Grand Prize - One (1) winner of P300,000 CASH
Final Round Prize - Five (5) winners of
P200,000 CASH each
Undergo a structured Mentoring program over a period of 6 months
Will be entitled to set up office at the Ateneo Impact Hub, a physical incubator for start-up social businesses
Access to finance
Consolation Prize - Five (5) finalists will receive P50,000 EACH

For more info, log on to sinag.bpifoundation.org

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Don’t Waste Time! Apply These 6 Simple Techniques To Improve Water Conservation

2015-06-15T12:41:00.001+08:00

El Nino is coming to ravage Philippines once again under the guise of summer season but this as we all know makes temperatures skyrocketing, pushing living costs at its peak, and water consumption being on top. Here are simple, actionable and practical ways that will help you live reasonably while at the same time, conserving water at home. Thanks to Cebu City Government for these infographics and I hope you find it useful!

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Spain is Coming to Invade Philippines Again #awesomeph

2015-04-20T19:00:00.000+08:00

Time has stood witness to the centuries-long bond between our country and Espana. They have colonized us long enough to instill some family values, cultural and faithful traditions that we hold so dear today. In the next few days, that bond would soon be rekindled but in a grander, more festive and flavorful way as we celebrate the Madrid Fusion Manila 2015. Check out the artsy upbeat TVC above.

About Madrid Fusion

It is a yearly conference and trade show where the greatest chefs, entrepreneurs and tycoons in the industry come together and build the future of food in Madrid. We are lucky enough that Department of Tourism and SM brings it here for the locals to have a taste of the good life.

“SM is proud to be the venue of the historic Madrid Fusion Manila. We believe that one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets is our rich culinary heritage,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls Senior VP.

I am personally inviting you to take your love for food to the next level this April 24-26, 2015, at the the Madrid Fusion Manila 2015 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

There's going to be a Gastronomy Congress where food tasting will overflow and avant-garde techniques in food prep and serving will be demonstrated by eight Spanish chefs who have been flown in for the event.

A Trade Exhibition will showcase the latest in food gadgetry and supplies.

There's also the Festival of the Philippines where hotels and restaurants will brandish celebrity chefs in food tours, trucks, tastings, and bar crawls all month of April.

New food concepts will be available at select SM Mall of Asia restaurants, while SM Aura Premier will host its own Spanish-themed fiesta with music, dancing, food and drinks on April 26 at the Sky Park lawn.

Also from April 24-26, irresistible dining deals await all food lovers at SM Megamall’s newly-opened Mega Food Hall.

#JayseeBlabs About Food Event Marketing

Event Marketing is a very dynamic industry that juggles through visual design, program handling, guest relations, staff coordination, branding and advertising, on top of that you need to creatively capitalize on the audience's innate nature for the love of food and flavor.

It is a good thing to note that companies has begin to tap on social media for marketing and feedback aggregation all the while using the messages about the cultural roots to draw attention and personalizing the campaign.

But then again one measure of success is how much buzz is generation and creating a 'regionalized' version of the world-class event right here in our land is a big challenge. Lifestyle here in the metro has already matched the pace of our western counterparts so adoption of such ideas has not been much of a drag. So when in doubt, choose food.

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Helping OFWs Bridge Financial Gaps

2015-04-20T18:00:00.000+08:00

After years of uphill struggle, many OFWs come home to stay into the same financial status and way of life they had before they departed the country. There are many whys and wherefores for such an upshot – their families back home were unable to save, the salary earned out of the country proved inadequate for the family’s mounting necessities, the OFW overseas had so many other trials to deal with such that economic groundwork fall through the cracks, or financial implements abroad simply did not tone with the needs of our fellowmen in other countries.

With AXA iON, Filipinos abroad who log on to the internet quite often can now access the most basic financial products that can help them secure their financial future in a transparent, easy, and affordable way.

“The internet is playing an ever increasing role in the way we communicate, transact and find information about anything,” Rien Hermans, President & CEO of AXA Philippines said,

“With AXA iON, we now give Filipinos the chance to secure their financial future from the increasing costs of education, the burden of expensive healthcare costs, and the passing of a breadwinner, all in a digital platform, in just a few, easy steps, and from wherever they are,” he added.

AXA iON offers four (4) fully-guaranteed products that make up the AXA eXentials line, which are designed to be affordable with premiums starting at only P1,000 per month:

Savings eXentials is a fail-proof alternative to savings that provide better returns than a regular savings account returns, pays out the cash to your family even if you don’t complete the 5-year savings plan in case of death or disability.
Academic eXentials gives guaranteed cash benefits once a year for 5 consecutive years, to help defray costs related to tuition or education. But in case of untimely demise before the 5-year payout period, Academic eXentials will give your family additional cash every year until the year before the scheduled release of benefits.
Life eXentials is a back-to-basics income replacement plan. Unlike typical life insurance plans, Life eXentials pays out its benefits monthly over a period of up to 5 years so there’s no danger of wiping out the insurance proceeds at once and ensures that the beneficiaries get a monthly stipend to replace the income of the loved one who passed away.
Health eXentials is the affordable complement to HMO coverage as it pays out cash upon diagnosis of critical conditions such as heart attack, stroke, including gender specific cancers (breast, cervical, prostate cancers), stroke, heart attack, Alzheimer’s disease, liver disease and 30 other critical illnesses.

This is a press release.

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Watch Why Manila Motorists Had a Great Morning #awesomebrand

2015-04-17T08:18:00.001+08:00

City life is something dreadful for the everyday motorist. Though there are beautiful reasons to smile and welcome the day, we can't help but linger about things to do at home, stressing about tasks to complete at work and, yes, frown upon the dragging traffic that makes mornings the worst part of the day for some. Then there comes a fastfood chain who made the most pleasant surprise in a PR stunt that brought joy in the most unexpected of ways.

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Thoughts of a Newly Turned 25-Year Old

2015-03-09T18:30:00.000+08:00

My vision...

is to live in a God-fearing happy world where there is tolerance for people to become who they are, where they are treated with equality, where there is acceptance, where there is prosperity and abundance, and most of all a society that functions with sustainability.

My mission...

is to educate and inspire as much souls as I can and learn from others along the way, in order to realize the better joyful world we all deserve in His name.

My tattoo...

People ask me "why wings?"

The answer is Why Not? I've always have been fascinated by angels and eagles.

I grew up asking why He never gave us the ability to soar heights naturally and then eventually I answered my own question:

He did not give us limitations, instead, He gave us a great opportunity to rise above it.

A photo posted by www.jaysee.me (@jayseeblabs) on Mar 6, 2015 at 5:24pm PST Photo taken by Geraldine!

Birthday wish...

As I turn a year older, I hope I will find joy every time I wake up, a reason to live, a reason to love life again.

Lingering question...

Have you ever asked God why is He still keeping you alive?

Funny moment...

Because I am traumatized by Manila traffic, I ended up arriving 4 hours before call time of my first day at my new Makati job. Let us advocate timeliness and accountability.

Awww moment...

My niece asked me what my best talent is. Trying to teach her humility, I pretended to have a hard time answering. She ended up drawing the letter T on my hand because she says I'm good in talking to people.

Financial goals...

Zero out debt.

Be at pace with my amortization.

Start saving up for personal goals.

Start building an emergency fund.

Additional deposit on my FAMI mutual fund and ColFinancial stocks account for my life goals.

New year's reflection...

It's a scary thing to lose passion in life when He does everything to bless you. Be careful when you give your heart away, you'll might never get it back and you'll lose your soul along the way. In this life, we'll never be truly happy, we just have to make most out of it and look forward to eternal bliss.

Someone once told me "rest but don't quit" and "He might never give what we want but He'll find a way to give us what we deserve."

In this coming new year, remember two things: only love what matters most and love yourself. Stay positive.

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Calling all Cebu High School and College Students for a Chance of a Lifetime!

2015-03-01T02:21:00.000+08:00

Can you please help us invite young leaders ages 12-20 years to join the 9th Season of the Young Minds Academy?

What is Young Minds Academy?

Young Minds Academy (YMA) is a youth leadership and citizenship development program of the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. – Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, which aims to develop the youth to become responsible and accountable leaders and pro-active citizens who are ready to serve the public and its interests.

This is done through experiential learning sessions, community visits, immersions, project development, and project implementation anchored on the theme Urban Development with emphasis on Disaster Preparedness and Humanitarian Response.

How to join?

Form a team of five (5) members under one of the following categories:
• Generation A : 17-20 years old
• Generation B : 12-16 years old

Accomplish the following:

Team requirements

Completed team application form (YMA Application Form 01)
Letter of recommendation and support from any of the following: school, barangay, office/organization, church, or whatever group the team is representing indicating their willingness and commitment to monitor the team and ensure that they abide by the rules and comply with the requirements of YMA.
A Team Accountability Partner who shall serve as a team partner, ensuring and monitoring the team’s compliance in YMA requirements.

Individual Requirements

Completed individual application form (YMA Application Form 02)
Completed medical review and release of liability form (YMA Application Form 03)
Certified true copy of birth certificate
An essay on “What citizenship means to me” in no more than 300 words (Arial, 11, double spaced, short bond paper)
A counterpart contribution of:

- Public High School Students and Out-of-School Youth - Php600
- State Universities/ Colleges Students- Php800
- Private Schools (High School and College) Students - Php1,000

Submit completed application forms and requirements to RAFI for short listing and screening. You may mail or submit in person at the following address:

The Executive Director
Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center
Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.
35 Lopez Jaena St. Cebu City 6000

Deadline for application is on March 7, 2015.

Get your application forms from the Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center, 35 Lopez Jaena St., Cebu City or download them at www.rafi.org.ph/yma-application.

For your queries, please feel free to contact us through Jenny Lea Tan at 418-7234 loc 112 or 09233550980 or email jenny.lea.tan@rafi.org.ph.

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Manila's New Comfort Food Addiction

2015-01-13T12:20:00.003+08:00

Filipino culinary virtuoso CHEF MENOY GIMENEZ introduced the “Traveler’s Menu” now available at TITO CHEF EXPRESS in Microtel Acropolis. He showcased the gourmet tastes found in the well-chosen dishes from the highlighted menu.

With the celebrated blend of classic food at reasonable prices, the new Traveler’s Menu pleased the tastes of the guests. From the luscious appetizers that elated everyone’s liking to the plentiful servings of the mains, and the satiating desserts, the well-curated menu truly mirrored the cooking panache of Chef Menoy in Tito Chef Express, which is enchantingly candid comfort food enthused from the classic preferences of every Filipino home.

Dulce de Leche Cheesecake

Affordable and well portioned at the price of PhP 250 for each dish, the menu selection is a perfect choice for people looking for something quickly served and conveniently available anytime within the day.

From the creamy hit of Fish in Pesto Cream to the
spicy kick of Salmon Ramen,
the juicy punch of American Burger,
the savory mix of Barbecued Chicken Jambalaya and the
braise attack of Smothered Pork Chop,

the Traveler’s Menu had indeed let the taste buds of the guests travel from East to West with its flavors from around the world.

Spanish Chorizo & Mushroom Penne

Tito Chef Express brings a unique and progressive menu that has comfort food delights, which include

starters,
entrees,
pastas, and
desserts.

The restaurant also offers

afternoon tea morsels,
breakfast and
lunch buffets,
full-service catering packages,
party trays, and
in-house banquets.

Honored to be under the well-known aegis of The Romulo Food Group since 2013, the modern restaurant in the metro north took the hearts of connoisseurs in Eastwood area who love to appreciate kitchen-crafted meals, cozy atmosphere, and whole-hearted service.

Tito Chef at Microtel Acropolis

From The Romulo Food Group of restaurateurs Enzo and Sandie Squillantini,
TITO CHEF EXPRESS
Ground floor of Microtel Acropolis,
E. Rodriguez Jr. Avenue,
Bagumbayan, Quezon City.

For inquiries and reservations:
call +632.962.8899 / +63916.343.5331
email titochefrestaurant@gmail.com

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The Gift Filipinos Deserve This Season

2014-12-18T15:29:00.000+08:00

Criticized about how commercialized it has become, gift giving has kept economies bustling every December as families honor each other's relationships with tangible offerings and there is nothing bad about making the people we love happy.

For busy working professionals, shopping has become a dreadful chore that is why online shopping sites have sprouted up guaranteeing convenience to the flustered Filipino consumer. These may teach us delayed gratification as packages arrive two to three days later, but you can never put a price on time you've saved that you can use to attend to the more important things in life like family and career than wasting time driving through traffic, being bombarded with confusing choices and long lists, going head to head with other aggressive shoppers, lining up to the counter and don't even get me started about having these wrapped.

Top-tier e-commerce websites like Zalora.com.ph, Lazada.com.ph, FoxySales.com, Wego.com.ph, Bebe.com catering to different wide range of markets and needs ranging from apparel to houseware, from travel to consumer electronics. But what could be a greater way to enjoy the luxury of time and choice when you use these respected mainstream shopping services than to get super neat deals and discounts.

For me, the joy of waiting for the courier to ring your doorbell is the best part after hitting the checkout button and the unboxing is the climax if all this is an adventure tale. I'd like to share the joy by announcing the arrival of a startup that gives Filipinos like you and me a way to save on online purchases to the sites abovementioned.

Head on to http://iprice.ph and use the discounts to get you and your loved ones the next lifestyle upgrade happiness especially this season of generosity and love.

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Beyond The Enchanting Panoramic Pine View You Shouldn't Miss

2014-11-20T21:04:00.000+08:00

Home to one of the most gruesome stories in history, Baguio has a lot of stories to tell which has intrigued thousands of tourists year after year. A Victorian-style mansion known as White Laperal House has been known to be a place where suspected spies get tortured and killed during the World War II. This has become a quirky Bamboo museum and has been a setting for a very haunting film, White House.

The dilapidated Diplomat Hotel was a spooky part of our itinerary. The grunge texture of the abandoned structure is witness to its tragic past. As you'll walk through halls you can just imagine your hair raise as you try to take each other's portraits in the hopes of capturing a spirit on film. Urban legend has it that nuns were beheaded during the onset of the War.

Not just your ordinary university town, Baguio is like an enchanted princess all clad in gems as flowers. Romantic parks abound with spectacular panoramic views that is sure to leave you breathless. The city has become touristy, yes, but never spoiled. It continues to be a quaint town uphill nestled in the middle of mountain ranges where the cool air gushes around and invigorates locals and the allured visitors alike. Record low temperatures could reach 6 degrees Celcius that is why homes, malls, hotels, etc. need not place air conditioning and instead use large fans for circulation.

This highly-urbanized yet art-nurturing city comes alive when the Panagbenga festivities drums its beats, when city dwellers take that long drive to seek refuge during the Holy Week and when the Christmas season delights everyone in merry making.

With some land areas designed to grow fresh organic crops and healthy tangy blood red strawberries that you can pick yourself, it has been a haven for people seeking nutritious food and novel pasalubong delicacies as well.

If you can't go there any time soon then enjoy these snaps in the meantime...

Session Road Art Haven

The Grotto

The Diplomat Hotel

Tam-Awan Garden in the Sky

The Strawberry Farm

The Parks

Thank you to Mr Vincent Tabor and Azalea Residences for making this possible!

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Why Being Fashionable Was Never This Good. Literally.

2014-11-19T14:10:00.000+08:00

#ShowYourStripes for Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit Program

Doing good is always in style!

Starting November 15, McDonald’s brings you the limited-edition red and white striped socks in select restaurants in Greater Manila Area.

For only P100 a pair, you can #ShowYourStripes as an addition to your OOTD plus you are able to help build the next Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit in the country.

Striped. Jeric and Jeron Teng.

McDonald’s and Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Philippines join the 40th global anniversary of RMHC by inviting Filipino customers to wear the red and white striped socks to support the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit.

Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit

Bahay Bulilit is one of the flagship programs of RMHC in the Philippines. It is in partnership with the DSWD and with LGUs that build daycare centers in communities that need it most. It is a safe place for children to learn and play, free of charge, while their parents are at work.

McDonald’s has 25 Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit daycare centers to date. Its latest Bahay Bulilit was recently opened in Tacloban, Leyte to reinforce its commitment to help the community of Tacloban a year after Typhoon Yolanda.

“We were in awe with the community’s warm welcome of the Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit in Tacloban. We are now more motivated than ever to continue this ripple of change through the #showyourstripes.” said McDonald’s PH President and CEO and RMHC PH President Kenneth Yang.

“We invite every Filipino to show their stripes and join us as we build more Ronald McDonald Bahay Bulilit for more kids who need it most.” Yang added.

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Are You A Filipino College Student And Want To Travel The World For Free? This Is For You!

2014-11-14T10:14:00.000+08:00

"Go Green in the City" Global Competition.

Be part of the journey as young students like you innovate and crunch out smart ideas to make cities smarter.

Compete for a trip around the world and a career opportunity at Schneider Electric, one of the biggest global specialists in energy management.

Open to all Filipino college students of any course who have ideas that utilize, optimize, conserve and or generate electricity. No need to create an actual prototype. Just a one-pager of what you think will change the world someday.

Four easy steps:

Register.
Fill out your profile.
Form a team of two with, for diversity purposes, has at least one girl in the group.
Submit your one page case solution.

Deadline for submission of proposals is February 1, 2015.

Inform your colleagues and the professor you have chosen to become your mentor about this today and start exhausting all available resources to conceptualize your project.

Pinoy Pride

In 2013, two engineering students from the Ateneo de Manila University outperformed more than 25 other teams from around the world. The competition gave them the chance to showcase their talent in the global search for viable energy management solution.

Alyssa Tricia Eloise Vintola and Lorenz Ray Payonaga won with their entry project entitled ‘Oscillohump’, an awesome energy management solution that harvests energy from road humps using the concept of induction. To explain it further, it simply means that whenever a vehicle passes through the Oscillohump, they generate power that charges a battery which may be used to power street lamps, traffic lights, or CCTV cameras. They even had the chance to get an all-expense paid visit to Paris, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Denmark and Indonesia.

What are you waiting for?

Think Big. Think Green. Think Schneider Electric.
Visit gogreeninthecity.com now

P.S. Event photos from the Shangri-la Makati Press Conference to be posted soon.

#JayseeBlabs Closer Look on Contest Marketing

There are a lot of ways small businesses can benchmark on Schneider Electric's marketing strategy. If you have noticed, they used competition for brand marketing. They are trying to reach the Millenial Generation as a company of choice as part of talent acquisition and brand positioning in the potential market.

Yours Truly with EON Team Members

The stakes they are offering are very exciting and the learning experience that they will get is definitely priceless. The competition they are organizing will also aid research and development and stir up creative outputs in the chosen field as a catalyst of idea generation and eventually it might trigger new lines of businesses as well.

As Mashable.com reports, "Like other tools, contests can be extremely effective when used as part of a comprehensive social media strategy." Consider mechanics, platform, reach and target audience, regulations, industry reports and trends, specific measurable goals such as brand awareness or inspiring change or entrepreneurial spirit, prizes, and assess the current strengths of your company and brand as well as the opportunities for growth and understand how you can use that to your advantage.

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Did You Know You Are Losing Four Days Every Month, Here’s Why

2014-10-17T19:00:00.000+08:00

Filipino motorists, apparently, spend over a thousand minutes each week on making decisions alone. At least that’s what a recent study reveals.

We might not notice it but if we look at the bigger picture, we dedicate a large part of our lives unknowingly just to scratch our head stressing over life’s small unnecessary details.

A nationwide study by Shell publicized that Filipinos make over 30 conscious decisions each day that could have been dedicated to more important things like spending time with family, reaching organizational goals in your career, finding ways to expand your business, and laughing out loud with friends. As a firm that aims to make their customers’ lives easier, they are currently looking into ways in providing more value through introducing products that we can rely on.

With Shell's Celebrity Driver of the Year, Ms Bianca Gonzales sharing her experience with smart long haul driving.

With a lot of pressures about modern city living, our evolving needs have been the top priority of today’s top service and product providers.

Mango Tree in Bonifacio Global City packed with bloggers and media practitioners celebrating the feat of the participants and winner of the Shell Driving Challenge.

We should be conscious even in our small actions from now on and literally make every second count. For time can never be taken back once wasted.

The Shell FuelSave Good Choice Report poked into the lives of commercial drivers, private individuals, moms and college students who drive at least once week, from different key cities such as Metro Manila, Dagupan City, Batangas City, Metro Cebu and Davao City. It is indeed revitalizing to note that our fretfulness even in deciding where to eat, what to do, where to go, to milestone decisions such as career and financial planning takes up a huge chunk of our lives.

“We recognize that our customers are very busy people and are pre-occupied with so many things,” says Mr Anthony Yam, VP Pilipinas Shell.

While most Filipino motorists make decisions based on own personal prejudices and considers themselves as strongest influencers in their decision-making, there are a lot of things being put into regard. Funds, family and life partners are naturally being consulted as well.

The study also emphasizes that these decisions are done in the morning, while out of home and most of the time, on the road. These are things we all know already, can all relate to and it is saddening that it had to take a corporate study to make us aware of our habits.

Beautiful models manning the Shell app kiosk at the event.

And just a great way to highlight how making good choices impact our lives positively, Shell organized a Driving Challenge event. Putting together celebrity Bianca Gonzales and 13 everyday drivers test road savvy and fuel efficiency skills as they drive from Bonifacio Global City to Batangas and back. To those who are not aware of how long a drive that is, it is about 240 kilomoters. That’s around five audiobooks, 10 US Top 40 albums, singing your next favourite song on Spotify, ranting about that annoying girl at work or taking a pic of the cars in front you for Waze points and the list goes on.

Shell Fuel Scientist Mae Ascan, the only Filipino Fuel Scientist in the world, gave a special mentoring session to the participants on smarter driving behaviors. Ultimately, through this Challenge, choosing the right fuel does not have to be a tough decision, states Mr Yam. And yes, there’s a hundred years of street cred of the conglomerate to prove that.

What is your goal for today? How will you make life’s precious minutes count? What difference will you make after reading this?

#JayseeBlabs Closer Look on Consumer Studies

Knowing all about your consumer will make you a greater company since you would be able to adapt to lifestyle changes that might be influencing them as they make choices. Consumer Studies are a great way to and Shell did a great job at collating data and developing marketing strategies that revolves around the results.

Business communication can aid in resolving market problems as people make smarter decisions and the way they did information acquisition and manipulating it in such a way that it would promote the brand was a great way of making a process personal for a company of a global heritage.

There are a lot of consumer behaviors that you should put a focus to such as social, economic, psychological, even technological. Sampling methods based on what your research goals may be employed accordingly. You can reach your consumers by personally communicating with them through your social media channels or 'incentivizing' their answers through e-survey prizes.

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Something to Hooray About

2014-10-14T19:00:00.000+08:00

If not just the sunset, mornings are my most favorite part of the day.

Something about new beginnings and second chances, a promise to do something great, mornings just give us so many things to be anxious or smile about.

McDo brought together bloggers and media practitioners to do something together for the first time.

When I heard that I am invited to do yoga, I was like nah, that's going to be easy.

But little did I know that it is so strenuous, I could actually consider it a sport. My arms were literally shaking from the weight of my body and hamstrings ached as it was stretched doing the standing dog position. I just knew right then and there I had to do this every day. For someone who lives a monotonous lifestyle of endless officework with little to no movement for hours, this is a treat to your body as it tones your arms, loosens up joints, awakens your digestive system, improves blood circulation, and hardens your core.

"May all human beings find peace."

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If you think yoga is easy, think again. Thanks @mcdoph Namaste. www.jaysee.me
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What was taught to us by the ever glowing guru, Ms Elizalde of ECHOYoga Shala in Makati, were the first two batches of yoga poses namely, Surya Namaskar A and Surya Namaskar B. Each with co-related steps that when done, would leave you gasping for air and sweating the toxins out as you do the repetitions.

And contrary to popular belief, no, you won't fall asleep and no, it is not easy to do. It appears light as the instructors we see on TV or movies are effortless but for a beginner, you could just make a fool out of yourself much like us who laugh at our own bloopers every now and then.

Glide like a butterfly and not stump like an elephant, Ms Marilen Elizalde would jokingly remind. Revealing her age of 40, she looked more youthful and peaceful than I do. She has mastered the bodily discipline since 2001 and willingly introduced us to the joy of healing and strengthening your body from within. The dads and adult men in our batch fared just the same as the ladies.

Yoga Benefits

Recommended to be performed amid sunrise or natural lighting, yoga can do so much more like treat insomnia, makes the skin glow, lose extra calories, and for the ladies, regulate menstrual cycle. But let me give a focus on the total physical workout benefits you are going to get: limbs become symmetrical and your vital organs become more functional. For someone who values health before anything else, I recommend that you check out your local yoga studio and inspire everyone you know to be health conscious. The poses are monotonous so it is easy to master and you can do it when you wake up, before going to work, anywhere.

And when done in solitary, yoga can be the best way to clear your vulnerable mind in this seemingly self-destructing world.

McDo

Give yourself the gift of yoga and enjoy mornings the way it should be. And while you're at it, succumb to the latest breakfast offering of McDo with, my favorite, Chicken McMuffin. Also check out the Chicken Egg McMuffin and the delectable Sweet Ham Special. Let the most important meal of the day be something to hooray about.

Namaste.

Visit www.echoyoga.net and Facebook.com/McDo.ph

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That World-Class Science Museum in Manila

2014-10-05T19:00:00.000+08:00

When you are in the mood to be taken out of this world with all the awesomeness of Science, then head on to the most beautiful business district in Manila and visit The Mind Museum in Taguig.

Sitting mightily on a 1.2 hectare lot in Bonifacio Global City, brace yourself with most visually stunning exhibits and interactive stations that educates, entertains and lets you grow appreciation to the world we live in.

It’s a great place to get lost in as every corner has been filled with facts and info that is sure to keep you overwhelmed with excitement.

It is so well-built from the ground up that I would recommend it to all foreign guests and diplomats visiting the Philippines.

The story of our world is well told in pieces that is easy to understand and digest. Think of it like your elementary Science book coming alive.

The architects, designers, engineers, scientists, businessmen behind this visionary project deserve the highest recognition and my ultimate respect.

I was blessed to share this day with my best buddies since high school Jammy and Jasper.

It’ll blow your mind and bring out the kid in you. I’m proud to be a nerd and I love to be in a place where I can be one without being weird.

You can be with your family or with your barkada and I guarantee you’d have a great time. The dinosaur, piano stairs, harp with no strings, the phases of the moon, solar system, the evolution theory, human senses, the arcade, animals, molecules, heart and the brain, the static globe that raises your hair, wildlife, the huge chocolate and so much more to look out for.

Three hours is actually not enough for you to run around, take pictures, read the infographic, press buttons and pose some more.

The 3D film which boasted an all-Filipino team was the highlight of our visit. After the movie, I was left in awe and saddened that it had to end. I was taken through a filmic tour of the history of the universe.

The visual and verbal consistency of the messages and signages was also notable. Everything about it was well-thought out. Plus, the striking futuristic architecture will make you beam with pride.

Known to be worth a billion pesos, The Mind Museum in Taguig materialized solely on private donations from the biggest companies in the country and most of whom you will find out once you get there due to some branded stations. I just wish they could’ve muted down the corporate branding on some stations since we paid a regular price but that’s just me. For all I know they could've charged me much higher. The ticket prices are a bit high compared to NIDO Discovery Center in MOA but they justify the experience nonetheless. I wish I could’ve gotten it at a subsidized rate since I am an employee of the benefactor but I had learned about it a bit too late.

Anyway, when in Manila, you know what to do...

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How This Pinoy Print Ad Can Teach Us About Moving On and Letting Go #awesomebrand

2014-09-22T18:30:00.000+08:00

Adding a touch of humor has positive impact on your brand provided the right timing and the right mix of elements. And since the Filipino culture thrives on comedy, it makes business sense to use it in delivering a message that promotes fidelity and fitness in the most unusual of ways.

GNC's Burn 60 product brandishes the slogan Fit Lives Longer in a series of print ads created by JWT in Manila, Philippines, that was plastered on national glossies. The telenovela feel of the ad makes it really familiar to the Filipino market and I just want to single out the character design and details where the illustrators and artists did such a fantastic job. Notice the attention to details such as lighting and shadows, how the canvas was divided to distribute focus and how tension was translated through the character emotions and color tones. The copy is catchy and the art direction, perfect. It has this Disney gone bad feel to it which makes it more laughable.

The situation itself is very much personal to everyone as we have a mix of macho culture and tolerance to infidelity. Heck, we even re-elected an impeached president to become mayor of the country's capital city. No wonder why shows like the Legal Wife and My Husband's Lover and movies like No Other Woman, A Secret Affair and The Mistress had such a huge following. I found article that could not elaborate our double standard of morality any better. The author was raw and honest and just a word of precaution, it is subjective so respect his/her opinions and I sadly agree to most parts of it. If there is anything you would want to speak on this matter, I welcome you to comment below.

Everyone knows someone who may have cheated at one point/s in their relationships but our hearts should be big enough for forgiveness, acceptance and second chances.

“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool."
Isaiah 1:18

Let us not cast the first stone unto our fellows who have fallen. Judgement and revenge is not ours, it's God's. And the bible speaks of forgiveness as a recurring theme as filling our hearts with anger will only be grounds of us being prohibited to enter His Kingdom come time.

If you are in the situation where you find it hard to forgive the people who have wronged you, give yourself time as the despair you are feeling makes you human. But remember each time that passes makes your heart decay and grow dark and you might reach a point where you cannot reverse the actions or words that you will let loose when the bottle has filled up. For hatred, like love, can grow in your heart if you nurture it. That is why I am glad about stories on the silver screen and Philippine television give positive resolutions or happy endings to shows of adulterous themes because it teaches people different ways of coping, moving on and letting go. The thing about real life relationships is that it may not be the same ending the fairy tales taught us but you can still happy none the least.

Let us take this time to think about who we have not forgiven and what we plan to do about it.

In the meantime, be awesome!

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