akosiRABSKY

Internet.org: Bringing free mobile internet in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 11:08:00 +0000

The Philippines is the 7th country in the world to avail the Internet.org app on smartphones. It provides smartphone active users free access to basic internet services related to education, health, employment, communication and information and news. This means that everyone will now be able to use their social media accounts for free, or even looking for a job online using Jobstreet, or checking out the latest news and updates on Inquirer without any data charges. Although the said app is only limited and restricted to few sites, which Facebook has chosen.

Internet.org is a non-profit organization and a partnership between Facebook and seven mobile phone companies (Samsung, Ericsson, MediaTek, Microsoft, Opera Software, Reliance and Qualcomm) that aims to bring affordable Internet access to everybody by increasing affordability, increasing efficiency, and facilitating the development of new business models around the provision of Internet access. In the Philippines, Internet.org was launched on March 18, 2015 in partnership with Smart Telecommunications, Inc., which has over 70 million subscribers.

“We are working with operators, content partners, and governments from all over the world to address the barriers that prevent people from connecting and joining the knowledge economy. We are excited to bring the Internet.org app to the Philippines and give people access to internet services and tools that can help create new ideas and opportunities,” says Markku Makelainen, director of global operator partnerships at Facebook.

Apart from the Philippines, Internet.org has launched in Colombia, Ghana, Tanzania, Kenya, India, and Zambia.

Subscribers can download the app on Google Play Store, or simply text INTERNET to 9999 to access.

Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, posted a photo on her Facebook Account regarding the launching of Internet.org app in the Philippines

"We're one step closer to connecting the world as we launched Internet.org in the Philippines today.", Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook

The Internet and Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines estimates that only 38 percent of the Philippine population had internet access as of mid-2014.

And I'm back after 2 years! Featuring Mi'Grande's best-sellers!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Mar 2015 10:40:00 +0000

If you're craving for pizza and burgers, Mi'Grande Restaurant is the best spot!

The store ambiance was bright, with high ceilings and light apple green wall colors. On the other side, they have this cut-out wooden planks, which reminds me of a wooden puzzle.

So I ordered my all-time favorite lasagna, which is a little bit costly compared to other restaurants (around 95 pesos). But take note: REALLY WORTH THE PRICE! With an ooey gooey cheesy melt on top, ground beef and very tasting tomato sauce, it's a tried and true crowd-pleaser.

I also tried their all-time favorite, and most probably their best-seller, White Gravy Sauce Burger (if I'm not mistaken) platter. This flavorful beef gravy is truly a burger from heaven! It costs around 115 pesos.

Visit them along National Highway, beside Old Yellow Bus Terminal, General Santos. Or you may visit their Koronadal Branch at General Santos Drive. They're open until 11pm.

J.Co Donuts and Coffee to open at Veranza on Nov 27

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 23 Nov 2013 02:28:00 +0000

If you're following KCC Malls on Facebook, we've seen a lot of J.Co collateral and with their teaser photos, that in fact, J.Co Donuts and Coffee will be opening its doors on November 27, 10PM, according to J.Co Philippines' Facebook Page.

J.Co collateral, courtesy of KCC Malls' Facebook Page

J.Co Phils' Facebook Page, posting their updates on J.Co Veranza

On the opening day, they will give surprises to first 100 customers, according to their post on Facebook Page. Might perhaps J.Co will give a dozen of surprises on the opening day!

J.Co Veranza on its finishing touch, courtesy of KCC Malls' Facebook Page

J.Co Donuts and Coffee is a lifestyle coffee retailer in Indonesia, specializing in donuts, coffee and frozen yoghurt. It began trading on 2005 in Jakarta, Indonesia until they expand their chain into Malaysia, Singapore, China and the Philippines.

J.Co Veranza is their 4rd outlet outside Metro Manila, others are located at SM Pampanga, The District Cavite and Centrio Mall Cagayan de Oro. That makes 17 stores in the entire country as of today.

Can't get enough of the hottest gossip? Then visit J.Co Donuts and Coffee on its opening day, and share the newest exciting treat that J.Co can offer.

SM City General Santos Christmas Launch

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 14:38:00 +0000

SM has a lot of surprises every month, and I can't wait to witness the magical Christmas event only at SM City General Santos!

Last year, SM City General Santos surprised us with an "under-the-sea" themed Christmas Tree as the centerpiece for the Christmas campaign.

Photos by Avel Manansala, Nanardx Zee

This time, SM City General Santos invites you to join their extraordinary Christmas launching on Saturday, November 9, 5PM at the Activity Center. Witness this once-in-a-lifetime experience only at SM City General Santos, Everything's here!

Searching for the perfect match?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 16:32:00 +0000

I'm 20. Getting the borderline of loveless. Does it mean there's no perfect match for me?

I was thinking, I want to have a right girlfriend at the right time in the right place. That was 4 years ago. That 4-year duration of searching for the right girl was so difficult, I guess one of the toughest. If not, the hardest.

During that 4-year timeline, I was able to mingle with different girls. One there, she was a call center agent. She was active in night time. But how about day time? Always sleeping. I remember that I invited her to have movie date, but I guess when I called her, she was sleeping. 2 in the afternoon. Scourging hot outside. 32 degrees. But no one is answering the call. The worst thing she did was when I came to her office in IT Park and bought some snacks for her. It was 12 midnight. Mosquitoes bit me. Waiting for her break for like 3 hours. I kept on calling her phone, but sad to say she left her phone in the locker while she was having her work. After 3 hours, I left her food with a letter on it saying, "This would be the last. Thanks for loving and waiting me." I left the place at 4 in the morning. Worth waiting.

After few days, I didn't receive any calls from her, even a single text message. But I was expecting for that thing to come. I'm that kind of person that can easily forget those trouble times. And yes, for that short span of time, I forgot her.

After a month, I met this pretty awesome girl in school in her sophomore years. That was my first time I saw this pretty creature. I'm kinda good in stalking people, so I was able to know her background. She's studying Education major in Biology. Been to a lot of beauty pageants in their hometown, and also taking her courage to join major beauty pageants in the city. Yeah, I know, she's a good looking person. She was my inspiration for 3 months. Because of my strong connections with her closest friends, I was able to talk to her, heart to heart. Exchanging quotes and jokes over text messages, and even talking on phone for 3 hours per night.

We consider our relationship as "close friends". But because of our sudden closeness to each other, there are times that something is rumbling over my mind. I was getting paranoid when she joined in a modeling group. No texts, calls or even communication over Facebook. Her timeline is all about this modeling group. And there was a rumor that she was currently dating this tall and good looking guy from the group. Oh well, I guess that it girl is not for me.

Until now, I don't have any news from her. Well I guess she found her knight and shining armor. How sad she didn't pick me to be part of her love story.

While I'm desperate to find the perfect match of my love story, there is this simple girl, on her pony-tailed hair, with interesting mole in her upper lips. We're about of the same age, 20. She's funny, funny to be with. One talk and everyone will laugh that there's no tomorrow. But for her, it is a normal talk. She keeps on complaining that we made her a laughing stuff.

I met her in my working place. She came all the way from the mountains with copper and gold beneath. Her hometown seems to be an interesting place to live. There are lots of gold and minerals, just like her face. Shining like a diamond. I asked her frankly, "Why you're so beautiful?", then she answered, "because I am.", then everyone in the office laughed out loud because of the way she delivered the message. She is so funny, really. All-in-one, full package. It's like, I want to bring her home like a stuffed toy.

Now, I'm still searching for the right girl. I guess the mole girl will complete the criteria. But the question is, is she the right one? Will God continue to write my love story? Or someone else is waiting for my presence? Then the who?

Yellow Cab Pizza at Veranza Mall: New York's Finest

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 09:32:00 +0000

Pizza is like, food made from heaven. It's my comfort food. I tried every pizza stores here in Gensan but nothing beats the best tasting New York's Finest of Yellow Cab Pizza. Luckily they have it here.

Yellow Cab Pizza Veranza Mall, from Yellow Cab Facebook Page

I am really a pizza lover. Every time I went to Davao, I usually dine at Yellow Cab, and I always order their best-seller New York's Finest.

Doing some lame stuffs while waiting for pizza

Hard to pick, eh?

I just love the kitchen and counter all-in-one, I can see the stuffs inside

My mom together with my sister decided to experience the best-tasting pizza at the newly-opened Yellow Cab in Veranza. I, myself, was excited and hungry at the same time to eat, and just make sure that it's New York's Finest.

Yummy New York's Finest of Yellow Cab Pizza

Reveal the pizza box

New York's Finest Pizza costs around 395 pesos, good for 4 persons.

I'm getting fat now, with my mom

Ratings? 5 as the highest.

Food: 5 stars (I want to go back!)
Service: 4 stars (Self service, but you may ask for assistance. Great staff, very accommodating)
Place: 4 stars (Industrial type, more of silver and yellow colors, New York street concept)
Must-try: New York's Finest (All meaty, all good!)

Visit Yellow Cab Pizza at the ground floor of Veranza Mall General Santos.
Website: http://www.yellowcabpizza.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YellowCabPizzaOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ycpizzaofficial

i-SPEAK launches ICT roadshow in Region 12

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Jul 2013 03:02:00 +0000

i-SPEAK headed by Ms. Sheila A. Dayap, CPA, will be launching a campaign to boost the awareness in ICT and bridge digital divide in rural areas.

In partnership with DTI Region 12, Animation Roadshow & Workshop 2013 campaign will travel to Sarangani on July 24, General Santos on July 25 and South Cotabato on July 26 to educate the public, particularly students, on the use and benefits of ICT and animation especially for job purpose.

Other institutions participating in the campaign are Society of Animators and Graphic Artists and ICT Councils in Region 12, ICT Solutions Association in Region 12, Digital Innovations Cluster Economic Development in East West Coast Sarangani, Speed IT and TICK in Koronadal, along with educational institutions Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in General Santos and Notre Dame of Marbel University in Koronadal City.

J.CO Donuts and Coffee to invade Gensan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 15 Jul 2013 09:45:00 +0000

Been craving for the hottest donut in town? Don't worry, J.CO will soon invade General Santos!

J.CO Donuts and Coffee, soon to open. Photo by SouthCotabato.org

J.CO Donuts and Coffee will be located at the Ground Level of Veranza KCC Mall, General Santos. It is their 3rd outlet outside Metro Manila, after The District North Point Cavite and Centrio Ayala Mall Cagayan de Oro.

J.CO Donuts and Coffee Veranza will serve three variants: J.COOL, non-fat frozen yogurt with different flavors and toppings, J.COFFEE, hot and chilled coffee drinks for coffee-holics, and of course their famous J.CO Donuts, which is really tastes better than other existing doughnut stores. I should try their Alcapone Donuts matched with brewed J.COFFEE soon.

J.COOL Frozen Yogurt with real fruit toppings

J.COFFEE variants

The famous J.CO Donuts, J.Pops and J.Club Combo

J.CO Donuts and Coffee originates from Indonesia and had just started last June 2005. It is the asian version of famous Krispy Kreme. They're a premium lifestyle cafe that offers products made only from the best ingredients and they have branches all throughout Asia. (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and China).

And it's just lucky that they will bring the hottest gossip here in General Santos. Watch out for the exact opening date of J.CO Donuts and Coffee Veranza KCC Mall.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/J.COPhils

Website: http://www.jcodonuts.com/

Nurse Licensure Examination for June 2013 is out!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 05:57:00 +0000

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Monday announced that 16,219 out of 37,887 passed the Nurse Licensure Examination given by the Board of Nursing in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Dagupan, Davao, Iloilo, Laoag, Legazpi, Lucena, Nueva Ecija, Pagadian, Pampanga, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga last June 2013.

This makes for a 42.8 percent passing rate.

The members of the Board of Nursing are Carmencita M. Abaquin, chairman; and Leonila A. Faire, Betty F. Merritt, Perla G. Po, Marco Antonio C. Sto.Tomas, Yolanda C. Arugay, and Amelia B. Rosales, members.

List of passers:

Nursing Licensure Examination June 2013 Results

Congratulations, RNs!

Giligan's Veranza Mall: Afforda-meals

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 04:15:00 +0000

I have a tight budget, and I don't know where to eat in Veranza.

Veranza Mall, from SouthCotabato.org

I just remember that I only have P200 in my pocket. Since I went to Veranza with my friends, I need to discover something affordable for the price below P200.

Giligan's, yes. It's Giligan's. Something new in General Santos.

Giligan's Restaurant will take you to a food trip of endless possibilities without sailing out to the sea. Everything is fresh, from sea foods to tasty fried chicken and crispy pata. With its vibrant and cozy environment, you'll surely love to dine at Giligan's.

Giligan's Veranza Mall is their 2nd branch in Mindanao, with existing SM Lanang Premier. At first, you'll be mesmerized with their sailor concept, offers you a peek of their eclectic collection of marine art acquired all over the world, where some are even authentic antiques hence they are safely encased.

99 Rice All You Can Meal Promo of Giligan's Veranza Mall.

But back to the main basic original topic, Giligan's offers 99 combo meals, all for 99 pesos! And my favorite part, rice all you can! It makes me more "baboy".

Their 99 pesos promo comes with 10 choices of meals:

Fried Chicken
Sisig
4 pcs. Pork BBQ
Sweet and Spicy Squid
Chicken Inasal
Lechon Kawali
Fish Fillet
Garlic Chicken
Inihaw na Baboy
Lumpiang Shanghai

Since we are that "manol much" (ignorant) with their meals, Dale tried Garlic Chicken, Genevieve ordered Sisig (which is pork) and Lechon Kawali for yours truly.

Garlic Chicken, I love its aroma and crispiness of the chicken.

Lechon Kawali, all-time favorite.

Pork Sisig, best-tasting sisig next to Razon's SM General Santos.

You can add 21 pesos for iced tea.

I look so fat in this pic. With my awesome friends Dale, Genevieve and Edward. (from left to right)

Total costs: P120 per meal. Come to think that it is rice all you can meal!

Ratings? 5 as the highest.

Food: 4 stars (delicious!)
Service: 4 stars (very accommodating)
Place: 5 stars (pirate on a ship-theme, awesome)
Must-try: Pork Sisig 99 Pesos Rice All You Want Meal

Visit Giligan's Restaurant at the ground floor of Veranza Mall General Santos.

Website: www.giligansrestaurant.com

SM's Little Star to shine again this year

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 16:36:00 +0000

Another kid will shine for this year's SM Little Star search!

Inviting all kids ages 4-6 years old to grab this biggest opportunity of their lifetime! SM Little Star 2013 is looking for the brightest star here in General Santos to compete with other little stars and win exciting prizes!

Requirements:

Photocopy of birth certificate
Two (2) 4R photos with light make up (close up and full body)

Preliminary Screening:

July 14, 2013 at the Event Center, 10AM

Registration form is available at SCMC Admin Office, 2nd Floor of SM City General Santos or visit SM Supermalls Facebook Page . For more details or call SM City General Santos at (083) 878 - 0667 local 136.

Japan Home Centre to open in KCC Gensan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 07:19:00 +0000

Japan Home Centre, the biggest surplus shop from Japan, will set to open its 2nd branch in Mindanao this week.

Japan Home Centre and American Bazaar

The outlet store will be located at the 3rd floor of KCC Mall of Gensan. It features "Made in Japan" products such as porcelains, plastic wares, craft materials, kitchen wares, school supplies, beauty and personal care items, hardware, auto items, and even Japanese foods and snacks for the price of 88 pesos and below.

Japan Home Centre

The store also houses American Bazaar Discount Shop, all-American products for affordable prices.

American Bazaar

Japan Home Centre, Inc. is the sole distributor of Japan Home Centre, Daiso Japan Store and American Bazaar Discount Shop in the Philippines and has 40 branches in Metro Manila, Cebu and Cagayan de Oro.

Veranza Mall Snapshots from Netizens

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 29 Jun 2013 16:30:00 +0000

Finally, Veranza Mall is now open!

Now and take a look of this year's biggest project of KCC Malls, the Veranza Mall. Here are some snapshots from our friends in SouthCotabatoNews.com's Nanardxz and Skyscrapercity Forumer Kenneth Rangas.

Veranza Mall's Waterfall, one of its main attractions

Veranza Mall's Main Road Entrance

Cache Cache, Veranza Mall

Make Room and More, Veranza Mall

From the Al Fresco of Veranza Mall

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Veranza Mall

Cafe Laguna, Veranza Mall

Aerosoles and Samsonite, Veranza Mall

Al Fresco, Veranza Mall

Lacoste Apparel, Veranza Mall

Hukad, Veranza Mall

Terra and Agua, Veranza Mall

Teriyaki Boy, Veranza Mall, and 2nd branch in General Santos

Yellow Cab Pizza Co., Veranza Mall

Veranza Mall's elegant interior design

Guess Kids, Veranza Mall

Activity Center, Veranza Mall

Soon to Open, BonChon Chicken, Veranza Mall

Activity Center, Veranza Mall

Payless Shoesource, Veranza Mall

Kevin's Toys and Library, Veranza Mall

Veranza Mall's scenic elevator

National Bookstore, Veranza Mall

Planet Sports, Veranza Mall

The Travel Club, Veranza Mall

Res Toe Run, Veranza Mall

Soon to Open, Blade, Veranza Mall

Bambu, Veranza Mall

Toby's Sports, Veranza Mall

Abenson, Veranza Mall

Signages

Gerry's Grill, Veranza Mall

Just Jewels and Lacoste Footwear, Veranza Mall

J.Co Donuts and Coffee, Veranza Mall

YakiMIX Veranza Mall

Al Fresco at Night, Veranza Mall

Veranza's Signage at night

Outside view from the bridge

Feel free to share.

Construction of Philippines largest solar plant set in Sept.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 29 Jun 2013 12:53:00 +0000

KORONADAL CITY -- Construction of the largest solar power plant in the country worth at least P1 billion is scheduled to start in September and expected to go on stream by January 2014, an official said on Friday.

The renewable energy project will be located in a 20-hectare property in Surallah town in South Cotabato, said lawyer Antonio Bendita, the incoming town mayor.

Renewable Solar Panel Plant in Cagayan de Oro

"This will be a big boost to our town through the employment and revenue that the project will generate," he said in a radio interview.

Bendita said the solar power facility will rise along the road in Barangay Tubi-allah, adding they expect it to become an ecotourism attraction of the locality.

The facility will produce power for the South Cotabato I Electric Cooperative Inc. (Socoteco I), he said.

The supply contract has been signed last Wednesday between Socoteco I and NV Vogt Philippines Solar Energy One Inc., Bendita added.

At five megawatts (MW), it would be the biggest photovoltaic (PV) power project in the country once completed, surpassing the one MW solar facility in Cagayan de Oro City.

Socoteco I, which serves this city, the seat of government of Soccsksargen (Region 12), eight other towns in South Cotabato, and Lutayan in Sultan Kudarat, has a daily peak power demand of 32 MW.

Santiago Tudio, Socoteco I general manager, said their contract with the National Power Corp. (Napocor) is ending this August, and the cooperative has been looking for suppliers as the state-owned power company reportedly indicated it would no longer renew its 20-MW allocation to the cooperative.

Napocor operates the Agus and Pulangi hydropower plants, which supply half of Mindanao's power needs.

Tudio said earlier that they are working for the acquisition of diesel-fired modular generator sets that could produce 15 MW to offset the projected supply shortfall with the end of the three-year contract with Napocor in August.

Napocor started reducing its allocation to electric cooperatives in Mindanao last year due to the declining capacity of its hydropower plants in Bukidnon and Lanao del Norte.

Daily rotating brownout lasting up to eight hours hit some parts of the island months ago and the interruptions are expected to be back in August to December due to the scheduled preventive maintenance shutdowns of power plants.

As alternative solution to the Mindanao problem, the Department of Energy has offered a loan scheme that will allow electric cooperatives in Mindanao to acquire their own modular generator sets.

Under the scheme, which will be coursed through National Electrification Administration, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla said electric cooperatives will be given a grace period of two years wherein they will only be required to pay for the loan's interest.

After two years, he said the cooperatives will have an option to pay for the loan principal and interest or completely waive any further payment by returning the generator sets to NEA.

By Bong S. Sarmiento, Sun Star Davao

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/business/2013/06/29/construction-philippines-largest-solar-plant-set-sept-289787

SM City General Santos champions Green Architecture

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 03:22:00 +0000

Since the opening of SM City General Santos on August 10, 2012, the mall has undertaken various programs and projects aimed at bringing a beneficial impact to the environment as well as to the public, thus, making it the first real “green mall” in the city.

SM City General Santos

Architecturally, the mall has a skylight window which purposely brings the outside light and fresh air into the inner area of the mall. The set-up provides effective internal lighting through natural day light and maximizes visual comfort while reducing electricity consumption.

SM City General Santos' architectural design, which highlights a skylight window to reduce light power consumption. Snapshot by Van Almeria.

Aside from having a “green” architecture, SM City General Santos has been recognized by the Pollution Control Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAPI) during the its Region XII 2012 General Assemby for the mall’s best practices for both the Safety Management System and the Solid Waste Management programs.

One of the many best practices highlighted by the award-giving body was the usage of a system in treating waste water for environmental discharge compliance and for reuse, and recycling water for cooling towers.

SM Supermalls' Trash to Cash Program

As part of the mall’s corporate social responsibility, a comprehensive drainage system has been installed along Santiago Blvd. going to Sarangani Gulf for better disposal of community waste. In addition, it has also widened the road to decongest traffic flow in the area surrounding the mall for the convenience of the general public. SM City General Santos has also launched the Trash to Cash Recycling Market Day to encourage active community participation of the environmental initiatives of the mall. The program is operated simultaneously in over 40 SM malls from 8 am to 2 pm every first Friday and Saturday of the month and engages customers as well as the broader community to exchange their trash for cash. Apart from the monthly Trash to Cash program, the SM Supermalls also promotes proper waste segregation, proper disposal of batteries, mobile phones and the like, and encouraging the use of eco-friendly bags to replace plastic bags.

SM Supermalls and SM Cares' Eco Bag Program

The mall also has a strong partnership with the Department of Energy and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the celebration of Earth Hour and other Earth Day activities.

SM Eco Bag launching at SM City General Santos.

SM City General Santos is committed to sustainable design and development as well as green architecture that enhaces the facility’s carbon footprint.

Medical Arts Building to rise in Gensan Doctors' Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:06:00 +0000

Did you notice the big vacant lot in front of General Santos Doctors' Hospital? Well, they have bigger plans of putting up a Medical Arts Building in order to cater the needs of Generals.

Rendered Medical Arts Building of General Santos Doctors' Hospital

I don't have any exact information about the construction. We'll just wait for them to start.

Here are some snapshots of the rendered Medical Arts Building.

An interconnected bridge from the main hospital

The Lobby of the Medical Arts Building

View from Narciso Compound

View from the National Highway

Road construction ongoing.

So, share your thoughts.

SM Savemore Market Malakas to open soon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 24 Jun 2013 03:47:00 +0000

It is confirmed that SM Savemore Market Malakas will soon to open at the back of J and G Propriedad Complex in Nunez Street.

Here are some snapshots by the SouthCotNews team. *

The construction site with trucks and heavy equipments.

Clearing operations ongoing.

Savemore is SM’s way of bringing in the SM shopping experience nearer to where our shoppers live and work. It is a neighborhood store that prides itself on great merchandise selection, convenience and excellent customer service. Instead of customers having to go to the mall, SM is now becoming part of our customers’ neighborhood.

The presence of Savemore Market creates economic benefits to both the shopper and its community: **

Savemore Market provides value for money to the shopper through competitive pricing and promotions.
Savemore Market brings convenience to the shopper and affords her to save on transportation costs through its proximity to barangays, subdivisions and places work.
It has been noted to increase the quality of life within the area by improving roads and access to public transportation, land appreciation and improving the quality of products offered by other markets within the same vicinity.
Increase in employment opportunities (average of 250 jobs) are brought in the community where Savemore is Located.
Shop owners that adapt to the changing needs of the community continue to thrive and improve the quality of their products upon savemore’s entry to the community.

SM Savemore Market, is under the SM Food Retail Group, with 46 branches throughout the country, including Agora, Capistrano, and Kauswagan in Cagayan de Oro and in Bangkal and Bajada in Davao City in Mindanao.

SM Savemore Market is also targeting another branch in General Santos. We'll just wait for the final news about it.

* More updates here: http://www.southcotabatonews.com/2013/06/gensans-first-sm-savemore-market-soon_24.html
** Excerpt from: http://www.smsupermarket.com/smsupermarket/save_more.php

11YG2013 Seminars: Branding and Marketing Management

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 22 Jun 2013 08:56:00 +0000

This strucked me to become an effective entrepreneur. If you have a good business but your branding and marketing really sucks, then this seminar of Yaman Gensan 2013 is definitely for you.

Yaman Gensan 2013 presents Branding and Marketing Management 101, "How to sound big while starting small" by Mr. Oliver Layco this June 24, 2013 at the Phela Grande Hotel from 1-5 in the afternoon. For more details, call GSC SMED Council at 301-5011 or 0933-579-5528.

To get more updates and seminar reservations of Yaman Gensan 2013, better add them on Facebook.com/GSCSMEDCI; visit their website YamanGensan.com; or visit SMEDCI Office at Room 201 2nd floor, RA Bldg. South Osmeña St., General Santos City. Call them at (083)301-5011 or 09335735528 or email them at smedc_gs@yahoo.com.
This year's Yaman Gensan is brought to us by the City Government of General Santos, General Santos SMED Council, Inc. and DTI General Santos.

Sizzling Veranza Mall's Tenants Revealed

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 17:52:00 +0000

Veranza Mall's opening date will be on June 29, and I am so excited to visit one of the most awaited shopping center in General Santos. So now, I will give you some lists of tenants, all of them are settling their shores in Veranza Mall. Excited much? Share your thoughts.

Apparels and Shoes

Guess Kids (Guess what? They have for kids also)
Esprit (an international apparel store)
Bambu (specialty store for flip flops like iPanema, Grendha)
Vans (skateboard shoe store, and they have a branch in South Seas Cotabato!)
158. Designer's Blvd. (high-end fashion boutique, carrying world-class brands such as Burberry, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic and others, owned by SSI)
Brand Smart (an outlet store carrying brands like Armani Exchange, Lacoste, Charriol, Liz Claibourne, and even Beauty Bar makeup, owned by SSI)
Cinderella (a specialty store carrying brands like Esprit, NafNaf, OshKosh, Pierre Cardin, Clarks)
Aerosoles (high-end shoe brand for women, owned by SSI)
Cache Cache (apparel brand based in France)
Res|Toe|Run (a shoe specialty store, 2nd branch after Robinsons Gensan, owned by Primer Group)
Salvage (apparel store, family of Reborn and Whoops with branches in KCC, Robinsons and SM)
PabDer (an Italian apparel brand for men and women)
Terra and Agua (international shoes and bag store)
Payless Shoesource (SSI's 2nd Payless Shoesource branch, after SM General Santos)
Shoeplus (I think Shoeplus and Cardam's are the same?)
Alberto (2nd store after Robinsons Place Gensan)
Lacoste Footwear (international brand of footwear, owned by SSI)
Officine (shoes and bags specialty store)

Others

National Bookstore (3rd branch in General Santos; perhaps the smallest among the three)
The Travel Club (2nd branch after Robinsons Place Gensan; owned by Primer Group)
Samsonite (specialty store for Samsonite bags; 3rd branch in Mindanao; owned by SSI)
Charriol Watch (sounds charr-ish, high-end watch store owned by SSI)
Just Jewels (high-end Jewelry Store, owned by Cebuana; 1st in Mindanao)
Swiss Gear (high-end fashionable watches and bags)
AstroVision (music and video store, sisterhood of AstroPlus)
Octagon (computer shop, 3rd branch in General Santos)
Watsons (not all Watsons are located inside SM Malls)
Toby's Sports (sports equipment, accessories and apparels)
EO Executive Optical (eye clinic, 2nd branch after SM General Santos)
Make Room & More (home organizing solutions, owned by SSI)
Kevin's Toys and Library (play room for kids, mostly with branches in Metro Manila)
Planet Sports (foot wear and apparel store for sports)
The DIY Shop (a do-it-yourself hardware store)
Beyond the Box (an Apple Premium Reseller, with 6 branches in Metro Manila)
Abenson (an appliance store)

My favorite part: Foods and Restaurants

J.Co Donuts (well at least they finally found their home)
Gerry's Grill (Bitoy's fave hangout every night, finally putting a branch in Gensan)
Yellow Cab Pizza Co. (A New Yorker's favorite pizza concept)
Mooon Cafe (really chicken mozzarella is really the best!)
BreadTalk (this time, full bakery shop)
The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (and people from Sbux will going to flock here for sure)
Yakimix (Manila-based eat-all-you-can buffet restaurant, with 699 all in buffet per person)
Bigby's Cafe (from Robinsons Gensan, transferred in Veranza Mall)
Chicken BonChon (Korean-based restaurant with branches in Metro Manila, Baguio, Cebu and Davao, they have the tastiest chicken, ever!)
Chika-an (Cebu-based restaurant, serving the best Pinakbet with Chicharon and Crispy Pata!)
Arpochi Seafoods and Restaurant (considered as one of the best seafood restaurants in Gensan)
The Pancake House (and they are not contented with their SM Gensan branch)
Teriyaki Boy (same fate with Pancake House, member of Pancake House Group)
Cafe Laguna (still Cebu-based, authentic Filipino Cuisine)
Giligan's Restaurant (around 10 stores in Manila, one in Cebu, Tagaytay, Baguio)
Sis Cake Avenue (surprisingly, the owner of Mix and Magic wants to put up a cake store with different name. Tatak lokal!)

Well those are just few lists of tenants that will occupy in Veranza Mall. Surprisingly, the mall has two waterfalls. I don't know where's the other one (since the original plan of the waterfall is located in front of the al fresco).

Other features of the mall include the rooftop bar, located at the third floor of the mall. The bar is owned by KCC (no final name of the bar yet) and it will open 'till midnight. There will be a live band every night so this would be a new place for nightout buddies out there.

If there's "we're open 'till midnight" stores in Veranza, then there should be "we're open at 5am" stores! And yes, selected tenants of Veranza Mall will open as early as 5 in the morning just to cater the needs of those "morning people" especially those joggers and zumba fanatics.

KCC Veranza Mall is indeed to change the General's lifestyle.

See you at the opening of Veranza Mall this June 29, 2013 11AM! Watch out for activities plus surprise guest artists coming on the opening day!

The Virtuous Culture: A Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 08:47:00 +0000

“Be a lotus” as Confucius puts forward. A Lotus remains beautiful even as it lingers in the filthy waters of the pond. Don’t be contaminated. Don’t be influenced by worthless means. Remain radiant among the shadows of the darkness. Be a Lotus. It has to start with one to fill the pond with more.

Virtuous Business Solutions

With the business grounds fired by stiff competition plus malcontent for power and fame , is it possible to have a virtuous business? Is there a lotus that stands in the filthy waters of business?

Many business student would say “NO” for the purpose of a business entity is profit. True. Profit is one top driving force of business. Many businessman would resort to ways that risks the environment, the society and the public or even at his own peril. For instance, greedy entrepreneurs indifferently pollute the environment through illegal logging, improper waste disposal, and excessive mining. Some would use violence, sexual immoralities and discrimination for publicity at the end of a higher range of profit. Yet, such operations proved to be of failure, as they fall in the pit of fiasco, bankruptcy and devastation.

Chinese girls picking up lotus flower.

It is important that business entities operates in the values of compassion, humility, honesty, discipline and respect. The values that shapes the organizational structure of a company does not only identifies the image of the company but it also represents it’s conscience, its philosophy and management style. It becomes the gauge of companies that run best and last longer.

Veranza KCC Mall to open on June 29

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 06:22:00 +0000

UPDATED: Here's the complete list of stores in Veranza Mall. Click Here.

Veranza KCC Mall is set to open on June 29, after they moved the original date thrice this year.

Veranza Mall's Al Fresco Strip. From Multi-Line Davao, April 30 2013

Al Fresco Strip going to J. Catolico Avenue. From Multi-Line Davao, April 30 2013

It was stated in KCC Malls website that the commercial complex will open on November 2012, but it was moved on April this year since only 60% of the construction were finished that time.

As of June 17, Veranza KCC Mall is now on its completion stage.

According to a high-ranking officer of KCC Mall, Veranza Mall will be different from other existing malls, it includes an interactive waterfall, endless al fresco dining, high-end and fashionable shops both national and international brands, and more green pasture environment. "This will be the first green mall in Southern Mindanao", he added.

Speaking of shops and dining choices, we have a sneak peak of those signature brands that will settle their new addresses in Veranza KCC Mall.

UPDATED: Here's the complete list of stores in Veranza Mall. Click Here.
Samsonite
158. Designers' Blvd.
Lacoste Footwear
Aerosoles
Res|Toe|Run
Cafe Laguna
Bigby's Cafe
The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
Yellow Cab Pizza Co.
Gerry's Grill
UPDATED: Here's the complete list of stores in Veranza Mall. Click Here.

Aside from those stores, an additional 7 SSL shops will open in Veranza KCC Mall. For your information, Stores Specialists Inc. is the sole franchisee of international brands like Armani Exchange, Burberry, Aerosoles, Gap, Dunhill, Nine West, and others in the Philippines. SSI is under Rustans Group of Companies.

As of 2013, KCC Property Holdings has 2 existing shopping malls and another one coming this 2014 in Zamboanga City. Zamboanga's KCC Mall will be the biggest shopping mall in Zamboanga Peninsula and will set to open on 3rd quarter of 2014.

Job Alert: Comic Alley General Santos is looking for you!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:23:00 +0000

Comic Alley, the biggest anime shop in the Philippines, is looking for Sales Staff for their upcoming branch in General Santos.

Comic Alley - General Santos is looking for Sales Staff
Qualifications:

Male/Female
18-25 years old
Knowledgeable in Anime has a PLUS FACTOR
Attended/completed at least 2nd year college of any course
Computer literate
Willing to work long hours even weekends and holidays

Interested applicants may email their resume to hrd@comicalley.net with the subject COMIC ALLEY - GENERAL SANTOS SALES STAFF.

Greenleaf Hotel Gensan to open this July

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 25 May 2013 09:04:00 +0000

Opening this second quarter of 2013, The Greenleaf Hotel is located in downtown General Santos City fronting the newly opened SM City General Santos.

Greenleaf's Grand Entrance

Suite Rooms

Main Lobby of the hotel

Restaurant

The hotel is located in downtown General Santos City fronting SM. Green Leaf Hotel shall be positioned as a first class hotel in downtown General Santos City offering luxurious accommodation with 111 Rooms and Suites reinforced by efficient, international standard, 5-star hotel services promoting existing Eco-friendly practices.

General Santos (GenSan), the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines”, is a business hub of Mindanao and one of the major, developing, business-friendly and peaceful cities of Mindanao as evidenced by the entry of major players in different industries (mall and commercial developers, hotel companies, mining companies, etc.).

GenSan has been placed on the map by the world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and by the obvious interest in its strategic location by the U.S. Influx of U.S. aid for the development of its airport and multi-lane avenues foreshadows more to come in the form of investments and visitors.

It is accessible to all major private and government offices and businesses in the area. Highly accessible through air transportation from Manila with increasing number of flights per day (from 1 flight daily now to 4). The hotel location has busy foot traffic, in front of the newly opened SM City General Santos.

Guestroom Features:

Individually controlled air-conditioning system
LCD Television with cable channels
Toilet & Bath with running hot and cold water
IDD/NDD Telephone thru PABX
Mini-bar
In-room Safe
Ener-con power switches
UV light resistant tinted view windows
Bio-friendly indoor paint
Air ionizers
Sound-proofed
Hypo-allergenic pillows & linens

Other Support Facilities and Services:

CCTV camera in strategic areas
Non-smoking guestrooms/floor
All-Day Dining Coffeeshop, Chinese Specialty Restaurant with private VIP rooms, & Asian Fusion Music/Sports Bar
Seafood Delicatessen & Take home counter
Ballroom
Function Rooms
Room Service
Swimming Pool
Al fresco area/pool bar
Spa/Gym/Health Club
Solar Panels
STP for water recycling (garden use)
Gen Set (noiseless & emission compliant)
Organic Garden / Food supplier
Electric City/Airport Shuttle service
Parking spaces

For more information, you may contact Greenleaf Hotel Gensan at 083.552.1111 / 083.302.1111 or visit them at San Miguel Street, fronting SM City General Santos.

Greenleaf Hotel Gensan is under the management of Asian Grand Legacy Hotels, Corporation. Under Asian Grand Legacy Hotels are the famous Astoria Plaza Ortigas, Astoria Bohol, Astoria Boracay, and the famous Greece-like Bellarocca Island Resort and Spa.

As of May 20, 2013: (Photos by Kenneth Rangas, Skyscrapercity.com)

Puregold to expand business in Mindanao

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 25 May 2013 08:40:00 +0000

Retailer Puregold Price Club, Inc. set to expand their supermarket business in Mindanao, particularly in Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Digos, Davao del Sur, Tagum, Davao del Norte and in Davao City.

According to the Senior Vice President of Puregold Aida de Guzma from press release of GMANews (http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/309596/economy/companies/puregold-to-open-three-stores-in-mindanao), three branches will be in Davao region, particularly in Digos in June, Tagum in July and Davao City in August this year.

"What we are doing is taking an opportunistic approach to growth and looking at Mindanao and the Visayas to see what is feasible,” De Guzman said Wednesday at a briefing after the opening of the firm’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-Sari Store Convention 2013 at the World Trade Center in Pasay.

Puregold Price Club Cagayan de Oro. Taken from CDODev.com

Aside from its expansion in Northern Mindanao and Davao Region, the retailer also eyes to expand in Zamboanga and General Santos within this year. Puregold has set its capital expenditures at P3 billion for the new stores.

What to watch out for Veranza Mall

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 06 May 2013 02:37:00 +0000

There are rumors that the soft opening of Veranza Mall will be on the 25th of May. But it is not official yet. Veranza Mall is actually on its 90% near completion.

But do you know what would be its tenants inside? And are you wondering if some of national and international brands will occupy inside of a home grown shopping mall?

According to my insider (lol), most of the tenants are franchised by KCC Property Holdings, well most of them, at least. It is really a good action for the management to franchise national, and take note, international brands of clothing line, gadgets, and even restaurants and fast foods, bringing all the investors here in General Santos. Well, the drawback of this rare opportunity is the additional usage of electricity, which we are suffering for.

Go back to the topic, here are some potential tenants of Veranza Mall:

Abenson - It is the number 1 Appliance Store in the Philippines, with almost 80 stores nationwide.

Yellow Cab Pizza Co. - considered as popular pizza chain with different branches from Philippines, Asia and Middle East.

Beyond the Box - An Apple Premium Reseller in the Philippines, with branches mostly in upscale shopping malls in the Metro. This will be their first branch outside NCR.

Mooon Cafe - my favorite restaurant in Davao is now actually here in Veranza Mall. Originally from Cebu, and it sprouted like mushrooms with several branches in Visayas and Mindanao. You should try their food, and you'll be amazed!

Esprit - an upscale brand of clothing for men and women. I don't know how KCC convinced Esprit Philippines to have their branch in Veranza Mall. I bow down to you, KCC Management.

We'll just wait for the other tenants. So, what do you expect for Veranza Mall?