MyCebu.ph: Cebu News & Features - Re/Discovering Cebu, one story at a time

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The rising temperatures during the summer months put properties at risk of fires. From 2013 to 2017, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) recorded 77,724 fire incidents, averaging 15,545 fire…

The rising temperatures during the summer months put properties at risk of fires. From 2013 to 2017, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) recorded 77,724 fire incidents, averaging 15,545 fire incidents every year. In this time frame, the BFP estimates that property damage reached P23.273 billion or an average of P4.65 billion every year.

Avoiding fire emergencies becomes vital to the operation of every business. Here are a few things to keep in mind to fire-proof your business:

1. Research fire safety requirements. Your business property needs to comply with the fire safety requirements as mandated by the Fire Code of the Philippines. Additionally, for new businesses, acquiring a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate is a pre-requisite for various permits and licenses from local governments and other government agencies. Taking time to research these requirements will help you cover all your bases.

2. Install fire safety equipment. This encompasses fire detection systems like alarms, to firefighting equipment like fire extinguishers and automatic sprinklers. Should a potential fire start in your property, the equipment help control and avoid the spread of fire and ensure the safety of people in the property.

3. Conduct regular fire drills and training. It is not enough to have fire safety equipment if nobody knows how to use it. Fire drills can teach personnel how to suppress a fire, and if needed, how to evacuate the property. These not only help people absorb the emergency plan better but can also update them on any changes that have been made in fire safety equipment and fire escape routes.

4. Routinely review and maintain fire prevention mechanisms. Like most things, equipment and processes need to be reviewed in order to ensure that they function should the need arise. Inspecting, replacing or repairing faulty equipment, combined with checking and updating evacuation plans will better the chances of avoiding losses in fire emergency.

5. Get protection from fire and other business and property damage. Business insurance, like Malayan Insurance’s Business Protect, covers fires and a wide range of other risks such as liability, accidents and Money, Security and Payroll. Business Protect is an SME insurance package that offers asset protection for business establishments such as retail stores, offices, restaurants, clinics, shops and even small kiosks. For as low as P2,750.++, you can rest assured that in the event of a fire emergency, your business is protected.

To learn more about Business Protect, visit www.malayan.com.

Founded in 1930, Malayan Insurance is a member of the Yuchengco Group of Companies. Malayan Insurance is the leading non-life insurer of the Philippines. (Press Release)

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Tech

PC still center of work: Dell EMC

Max Limpag

April 27, 2018 8:57 am April 27, 2018

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Despite talks we are at the end of its era, studies show the PC still remains “the center of how work gets done,” said Dell EMC Country General Manager Ronnie…

Despite talks we are at the end of its era, studies show the PC still remains “the center of how work gets done,” said Dell EMC Country General Manager Ronnie Latinazo.

It is important for companies to get technology right because it underpins the modern office and impacts how work is done, he said during the launch last week of Dell EMC devices designed for the corporate market.

“We’ve heard people say the PC is dead, that it’s the end of the PC era but actually we’re seeing growth and if you look at the technology still coming out in the market, many of these center around the capabilities and technologies available on the PCs,” Latinazo said.

CHANGES IN THE WAY WE WORK. Dell EMC Country General Manager Ronnie Latinazo talks about the transformation of the workplace and employees caused by advances in technology.

Tech and work transformation

He said work has fundamentally changed because of advances in technology, which improves 10X every five years. With advances in tech, devices are getting faster, more powerful, and even smaller, he said.

“To a large extent, the definition of work has changed. In the past, work was a place, I’ll go to work, I’ll go to the office. After five o’clock, I go home, I switch off, its personal life. But that has really changed. The business hour is no longer 9 to 5, it’s as soon as you wake up and probably before you sleep,” he said.

LATITUDE 7390 CLAMSHELL. Valerie Fontano, Dell Client Technologist, talks about the feature of the Latitude 7390 laptop, designed for the “mobile professional seeking power on the go.”

He said that data shows 60% of employees work even after business hours and 2/3 do some business at home.

Latinazo highlighted the importance of tech solutions for companies saying 42% of employees indicated they would quit a job with poor technology. It also has an impact on recruitment with 82% saying a company’s state of technology influences the job they take.

He said this trend will continue, as can be gleaned by the finding that 44% of millennials think their workspace isn’t smart enough.

MOBILE OFFICE. Martin Diez, Business Development Manager, talks about how the Latitude 5290 2-in-1 allows you to work from anywhere by offering the “power of a laptop and flexibility of a tablet.

Different personas in use of tech

He said Dell EMC studied how people worked and came up with seven different personas based on where and how they perform tasks. These personas were either desk-centric, remote workers, or always on the go.

Latinazo said they found that 52% of the workforce spends some if not all of their time working remotely. The company also found that 72 percent of employees see collaboration increase with “more grab and go technology.”” For on-the-go professionals, 39% of the group uses multiple devices while traveling for work.

BEAUTY, PRODUCTIVITY. Michelle Juliano, Field Marketing Manager, Client Solutions Group, talks about the features of the Latitude 7390 2-in-1. Dell said that in the device, “beauty and productivity intersect.”

“Only Dell has the right technology for every work style,” Latinazo said. “We would be in the best position to serve all the requirements of a workforce given the breadth of the products that we have, the technology that we bring to the market, and the innovations that we introduced.”

He said there is a need to transform the way companies deploy tech resources and look at the “whole lifecycle.”

NEW DELL DEVICES. (From left) Valerie Fontano, Dell Client Technologist; Ronnie Latinazo, Country General Manager, Dell EMC Philippines; Martin Diez, Business Development Manager; and Michelle Juliano, Field Marketing Manager, Client Solutions Group during the launching of new devices meant to help employees in a workplace transformed by technology.

Launch of new Dell Latitude devices

“Dell can provide help in all the key phases in this life cycle – from planning to deployment to supporting and maintaining it and even to a large extent in helping them refresh it because best practice shows that the cost of ownership of these machines become much higher after three years,” he said.

During the event, Dell EMC highlighted the Latitude 7390 2-in-1, Latitude 7390, Vostro 5370, Latitude 5290, as well as various accessories to help improve the experience in using the devices at home, in the office, and on the road.

The devices come with top of the line specs and thin and light design to meet the requirements of the new workforce, company officials said during the event.

Latitude 7390. Impressive power in a premium design. A 13-inch business-class laptop built for business professionals who want power while staying mobile. Featuring Intel 7th and 8th Gen Core i processors.

Latitude 5290 2-in-1. The device offers “security with style.” Dell describes it as “our most secure 2-in-1 detachable with the power of a laptop and flexibility of a tablet.”

Latitude 7390 2-in-1. “Work in luxury with this 13-inch 2-in-1 convertible featuring a superior display, Intel Core 8th Gen Processor, exceptional battery life and security keep you productive anywhere,” Dell says in its product page.

Dell launches new Latitude laptops

Facebook Live of launching

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Properties

Pag-Ibig recognizes Sunberry Homes with 3 awards

MyCebu

April 26, 2018 1:41 am April 26, 2018

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Dynamic and proactive mass housing developer Sunberry Homes, Inc. reaped three awards from the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-Ibig. It received an Award of Recognition as the No….

Dynamic and proactive mass housing developer Sunberry Homes, Inc. reaped three awards from the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-Ibig.

It received an Award of Recognition as the No. 9 Housing Developer in the Visayas in terms of Takeout Loan Value for the year 2017.

AWARDS CEREMONY. Shown during the awarding are (from left) Sunberry Homes President and CEO Beverly Dayanan, Pag-Ibig Fund CEO Acmad Rizaldy Moti and Jane Gocuan, Senior VP, Visayas Lending Group Head of DBP as partner bank.

Sunberry also received two special citations for the Highest Performing Loans Ratio and the award for the Highest Performing Accounts Ratio among top housing developers in the Visayas.

Pag-Ibig Fund CEO Acmad Rizaldy Moti handed the awards in ceremonies held on March 9, 2018 at the Cebu Grand Convention Center.

3 AWARDS. Sunberry Homes Inc. President and CEO Beverly Dayanan (center) and the Sunberry Homes Team receive 3 awards from Pag-Ibig Fund, represented by Cebu HBC Loans Management and Recovery Department Manager Anthony Maglunsod.

Quality projects

The award is also Pag-Ibig Fund’s expression of thanks for the company’s invaluable trust and support in the government agency’s housing programs by delivering quality loans.

The recognition that Sunberry Homes received is very significant for the company as it reflects the trust of buyers in the quality of company projects and handling of accounts and the overwhelming support of HDMF, said President and CEO Beverly Dayanan.

LOOKING BRIGHT AND PROUD. The Sunberry documentation team led by Admin Manager Jojie Tajanlangit and Sunberry Homes President and CEO Beverly Dayanan with Fermin A. Sta. Teresa Jr., Pag-Ibig Fund OIC-Senior Vice President.

“Sunberry Homes will continue to shine with bright and sustainable projects for families as we remain committed to answer the growing demand for affordable living to serve the needs of our fellow Filipinos,” she added.

About Sunberry Homes

Established in 2015, Sunberry Homes, Inc. is envisioned to create vibrant communities and nurture the lives of individuals and Filipino families aspiring to live in affordable and sustainable homes. The company upholds the values of integrity and responsibility towards its partners and customers through service-oriented and solutions-driven employees. Sunberry Homes, Inc. is an affiliate of multi-awarded company, Contempo Property Holdings, Inc.

Photos of Sunberry Homes

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Tech

Buy movie tickets using GCash Scan-to-pay at all Robinsons Movieworld branches nationwide

Press Release

April 25, 2018 10:26 am April 25, 2018

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Moviegoers can now seamlessly purchase tickets for the latest movies in one of the biggest cinema chains in the country. This has been made easier thanks to a new partnership…

Moviegoers can now seamlessly purchase tickets for the latest movies in one of the biggest cinema chains in the country. This has been made easier thanks to a new partnership between Robinsons Movieworld (RMW) and the Philippine’s top mobile e-payment scheme, GCash Scan-to-Pay.

Robinsons Movieworld has now embraced the cashless payment system in all of its branches nationwide in order to bring added convenience to its moviegoers.

“The push for a cashless payment system is strongly supported by Robinsons Movieworld. With Robinsons Movieworld adapting the e-payment scheme, we are confident that our customers can fully experience convenience with this feature in all our cinema branches nationwide,” said Arlene Magtibay, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Robinsons Land Corporation’s Commercial Center Division.

GCASH SCAN TO PAY. (From left) Robinsons Movieworld Senior Marketing Manager Michelle Araullo, Robinsons Land Corporation Senior Vice President & General Manager Commercial Center Division Arlene Magtibay, Mynt President and CEO Anthony Thomas and Robinsons Movieworld General Manager Jose Rodrigo Lim during an event to announce that moviegoers can now use GCAsh Scan To Pay to buy movie tickets at Robinsons Movieworld nationwide.

20% cashback promo

“The growing number of merchants is proof that GCash is moving towards fulfilling its vision for a cashless ecosystem in the country. With partners like Robinsons Movieworld on board, Filipinos are more empowered to maximize their connectivity and provide ease and security in various transactions,” says Anthony Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of Mynt.

As part of the newly forged partnership, Robinsons Movieworld, together with GCash, will carry out more than the usual promos to its customers. Movie patrons who use GCash scan to pay to purchase their tickets will enjoy a 20% cashback up to 500 pesos daily from April 15 till May 31, 2018.

How to pay with GCash

To use the scan to pay GCash feature, a customer with an iPhone or an Android smartphone only needs to download and update to the latest version of the GCash App. They would need to register for an account and fund their GCash wallet in any of over 12,000 GCash Partner Outlets nationwide—which includes Robinsons Business Centers. Once funds are loaded in the GCash wallet, a customer can then swipe to the left or choose PayQR then Scan QR and point the smartphone’s camera to the RMW’s QR code to scan.

GCash is operated by Mynt, which is owned by Globe Telecom, Ant Financial and Ayala Corp. (Press Release)

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Tech

HMD Global launches new Nokia phones in Cebu

Max Limpag

April 24, 2018 7:23 pm April 24, 2018

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Durable and reliable. These are some of the words that come to people’s minds when Nokia is mentioned, said HMD Global Country Manager Shannon Mead. HMD Global is the one-year-old…

Durable and reliable. These are some of the words that come to people’s minds when Nokia is mentioned, said HMD Global Country Manager Shannon Mead.

HMD Global is the one-year-old Finnish startup behind the resurgence of Nokia mobile phones.

NOKIA PHONES. Shannon Mead, Philippines Country Manager of HMD Global, discusses with Cebu journalists and bloggers the lineup of Nokia phones now available in the market.

“Durable, reliable. They’re what comes to mind when consumers are asked what they think about when we say Nokia,” Mead said during the company’s launching of new devices in Cebu.

“We actually dusted off some old phones and they’re still working. So, I think that really brings to life the message of durability and reliability,” he said.

PRO CONTROLS. Shannon Meads shows the pro controls that come with the camera of the Nokia 7 plus.

Pure, up-to-date Android

A key component of the reliability is Nokia’s approach to Android, their phones’ operating system.

“A strategic part for us is our take on Android. When we introduced our product portfolio in early 2017 to the world, we talked about pure, secure and up-to-date Android. We made that a promise and we’ve kept that promise,” Mead said.

CEBU LAUNCH. HMD Global Philippines Country Manager Shannon Mead and Head of Marketing Gibby Peñaflor launch the new Nokia phones in Cebu.

The Nokia 8, Nokia 6, and Nokia 5 are already on Android Oreo 8.1, which is the the latest release.

“For the Nokia 5 currently on promo at P8,990 to have Oreo 8.1 when some of our competitors are only getting Android 8 on their flagship devices – I think we’ve made that promise and we’ve been able to keep it,” he said.

NOKIA 1. Shannon Mead talks about the Nokia 1, a 4G phone that comes with Android Oreo (Go edition), a version of Android optimized for devices with 1GB RAM or less. It retails for P4,290.

New Nokia phones

Apart from the OS upgrades, Mead said the monthly security updates that they send out are also important. With these updates, “you can always ensure that the device has got the latest version which optimizes your battery life but also ensures that any malware, any glitches that have come in in the previous month are resolved.”

Mead led the launching in Cebu of the Nokia 7 plus, Nokia 1, New Nokia 6, and Nokia 8110 4G.

LOOKING BACK, AHEAD. Shannon Mead and Gibby Peñaflor open the Nokia mobile NewSeum exhibit in SM City Cebu. The exhibit takes Nokia fans back in time through old phones while displaying the innovations done by Nokia through the years with newer Nokia devices. The exhibit will run in SM City Cebu until April 30.

“HMD Global is proud to continue the story of Nokia mobile through the qualities that we first loved such as durability and innovation, designed to suit every need and style. As a key market, we are committed to building and strengthening our presence in Cebu,” Mead said in a statement.

“We are optimistic that with the new generation of Nokia Android smartphones and our classic but highly upgraded feature phone, the Cebuanos will get the best mobile experience across all price points,” he said.

Nokia 8110 4G

Year 1 achievements

Mead said that in HMD Global’s first year, they introduced 11 phones which he described as a “pretty amazing feat.” The company was also able to open an office in 80 countries.

“We’re able to be on sale in 170 different markets. For a brand-new company to have a presence in 170 markets and to introduce 11 new phones into the market is pretty great,” he said.

The company also made its mark when Nokia devices were able to enter the top 5 for smartphones in 15 markets.

“We are number one in value shipments when it comes to feature phones. We’re actually making a lot of headway when it comes to our overall ambition, which is to be a top 5 brand in the next 3 to 5 years when it comes to smartphones as well as extend our feature phone leadership and make it the largest brand,” he said.

Expansion outside Manila

This year, Mead said HMD will put more effort in expanding to areas outside Metro Manila.

“When we looked at success of our 3310 and the Nokia 6, Cebu was always at the top. We can’t ignore that. We need to go deeper in those markets and further out into provincial areas,” he said.

Nokia 7 plus

The flagship device combines beautiful design and manufacturing, powerful specs and great cameras, the company said. The phone comes with cameras with Carl Zeiss optics.

Key specs

Precision machined from a single block of 6000 series aluminium with anodised edges for added style and strength where you need it most
Ceramic-feel coating brings a unique tactile feel and comfortable grip while elegantly hiding antenna lines
Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 Mobile Platform and 4 GB RAM for powerful performance and optimised power consumption and 2-day battery life
Rear dual camera with ZEISS optics – 12MP primary camera with large pixel size and wide aperture for great scenic photography, and secondary 13MP telephoto lens for 2X optical zoom
16MP front camera with ZEISS optics and high-quality lowlight capability
New Pro Camera mode gives the ultimate intuitive manual control over camera settings for advanced users and shows the impact of your adjustments in real time

The Nokia 7 plus is available in Black/Copper and White/Copper and retails for P21,990.

Nokia 1

The device is a “a 4G smartphone for every Juan.” The phone copmes with Android Oreo Go edition, a version of Android optimized for devices with 1GB RAM or less.

The Nokia 1 comes with interchangeable Xpress-on covers.

Key specs

Familiar design and reassuring quality of a Nokia phone in our most affordable package yet
All the smartphone essentials – 4G LTE, quad core, rear camera with flash, front camera, dual SIM and voice control

Removable 2150mAh battery which lasts a full day with normal usage

The Nokia 1 is available in Warm Red and Dark Blue for P4,290.

New Nokia 6

The device is 60% faster than its predecessor and now comes with “enhanced Dual-Sight, ZEISS optics, USB-C fast-charging, a more compact screen-to-body ratio, Nokia spatial audio and pure, secure and up-to-date Android Oreo.”

Key specs

Crafted from a single block of 6000 series aluminium finished with two-tone anodization to stand out from the crowd
Robust and made to take everyday knocks thanks to the seamless aluminium unibody and sculpted 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass
Bright 5.5” full HD IPS laminated display with great contrast in a more compact form
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 Mobile Platform available with either 3GB or 4GB RAM (32GB/64GB ROM)
16MP rear camera with ZEISS optics and dual-tone flash for crystal clear images. 8MP wide-angle front camera
Nokia spatial audio capture and playback technology
3000mAh battery with USB type-C fast charging. Get 50% charge in just 30 minutes

The new Nokia 6 features two configurations of 4GB RAM / 64 GB ROM in Blue/Gold color blend for P15,990.

Nokia 8110 4G

The latest model out of the Originals family is the Nokia 8110, known both as The Matrix phone because it figured in the movie series and the banana phone.

The Nokia 8110 is a 4G phone that can serve as Wi-Fi hotspot.

The phone runs with KaiOS with a standby time of 17 days both using GSM and LTE.

Mead said the Nokia 8110 will be shipping in May. He said pricing will also be announced in the coming weeks.

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News

Don’t cancel BRT but pursue LRT: Cebu chamber; group warns: Cebu in a crisis

MyCebu

April 23, 2018 5:29 pm April 23, 2018

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The economic benefits of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are clear and canceling it is “not the right thing to do,” the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI)…

The economic benefits of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system are clear and canceling it is “not the right thing to do,” the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) said in a statement today.

What government can do is to make road widening an integral component of the project, CCCI said.

The organization issued the press statement after reports came out that the Department of Transportation recommended to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez that the BRT project be cancelled.

Urgent need for mass transport

In the letter, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and Presidential Adviser for the Visayas Michael Dino government will come up with “a replacement project superior to the BRT.”

“Cebu urgently needs a mass transport system today. It has already reached choke point with traffic congestion affecting all sectors of society,” CCCI said.

“It took more than 10 years for the BRT to go through its approval process not to mention countless time and resources spent in the process. The economists have computed a very high Economic Internal Rate of Return (EIRR) for the BRT at 53% meaning that the economic benefits are very clear. The project is ready to take off,” CCCI said.

A proposed BRT station.

BRT, LRT will complement each other

“While BRT is a short-term solution ready for implementation, LRT which will benefit a bigger volume of commuters over a wider area of Cebu should be actively pursued today for implementation within the shortest time possible to support the high growth of Cebu. LRT and BRT will complement each other.”

“Cebu is in a crisis situation. Cebu Chamber would like to enjoin all sectors of society to set aside political differences and work together to solve the traffic problems in order to achieve our common desire to have a Cebu where quality family life and business shall flourish,” CCCI said.

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Sports

Parklane running event Hunat Sugbu returns for 8th year

MyCebu

April 22, 2018 4:21 pm April 22, 2018

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Cebu Parklane International Hotel will hold the 8th edition of its yearly running event Hunat Sugbu on June 24, 2018. Hunat Sugbu, otherwise known as Dagan Para ni Maning, is…

Cebu Parklane International Hotel will hold the 8th edition of its yearly running event Hunat Sugbu on June 24, 2018.

Hunat Sugbu, otherwise known as Dagan Para ni Maning, is a commemorative run organized by the hotel in honor of its late president, Mr. Manuel G. Ting.

First organized in May 15, 2011, the run serves as a tribute to Mr. Ting and one of the company’s major corporate social responsibility projects at the same time. Proceeds of the run will be donated to a medical mission in partnership with Jesu Christi.

Hunat Sugbu 8 will start and end at The Terraces in Ayala Center Cebu. It will have four distance categories: 3k, 6k, 12k, 21k. Joel Baring serves as race director.

HUNAT SUGBO 8. Nicanor Nacorda, Hunat Sugbo chairman, talks about the annual run by Cebu Parklane International Hotel. With him during the press conference are Parklane General Manager Cenelyn Manguilimotan and race director Joel Baring.

Giveaways, raffle prizes

A scrumptious meal as well as giveaways and raffle items await all runners at the finish line. Water stations will be manned by the different departments of Cebu Parklane International Hotel to assure adequate hydration for all runners.

Race medals.

For a more effective and fast paced result for the runners, Parklane will use timing chips for the 12K and 21K categories. The chip will be distributed upon registration.

Throughout the years, the number of runners joining Hunat Sugbu has increased. As of 2017, Parklane registered a record 2,000 participants. It is targeting 2,200 runnings for this year.

Registration is now ongoing at the Parklane lobby. For more details, check out www.facebook.com/HunatSugbu.

Hunat Sugbo race singlet

Hunat Sugbo 8 race route

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3 min read →

Tech

GCash, Alipay team up for single QR code payment solution

Press Release

April 20, 2018 10:05 am April 20, 2018

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A new payment solution will allow merchants in the Philippines to accept payments from local users of GCash and Chinese visitors using Alipay through a single connection to the GCash…

A new payment solution will allow merchants in the Philippines to accept payments from local users of GCash and Chinese visitors using Alipay through a single connection to the GCash QR Code solution.

The announcement was jointly made by Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc, (Mynt), which operates GCash, the country’s largest mobile wallet, and Ant Financial Services Group (Ant Financial or Ant), which operates Alipay, the world’s largest mobile and online payment platform.

Alipay and GCash will work together to promote the new QR code payment to enable local merchants to service an even bigger pool of consumers with seamless payment experiences. This service will be rolled out over the next few weeks across GCash’s merchant network.

Ant Financial earlier entered into a joint venture with Globe Telecom and the country’s oldest conglomerate Ayala Corporation to boost Mynt’s operations, parent company of GCash mobile wallet service. Under this strategic partnership, Ant Financial will partner with Mynt for merchant acquiring activities for Alipay across the Philippines.

GCash remains the only mobile wallet partner for Ant Financial in the Philippines, serving local users in their everyday mobile payment needs from buy load, movie tickets to microloans and other financial services.

“We have enjoyed a strong and trusting relationship with Mynt since 2017, as we witnessed GCash’s phenomenal growth to becoming a world-class online and offline payment provider well-loved by Filipinos. With the success GCash has demonstrated over the last twelve months, we are pleased to elevate this strategic partnership today by establishing GCash QR code as the common QR code for both local users and visiting Alipay users,” said Douglas Feagin, senior vice president of global business at Ant Financial.

“By jointly establishing this QR code with Alipay, all merchants working with GCash will be able to accept Alipay as a payment option for Chinese travelers in their stores, while also catering to the local user pool that have now grown to love our cashless lifestyle app. We are hopeful that our merchants can benefit from the increased footfall and revenue stream brought by the increasing number of Chinese tourists coming to the country,” said Anthony Thomas, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mynt.

Alipay is now accepted by brick-and-mortar merchants across 41 countries and regions. They connect with travelers via the Alipay’s in-app marketing platform and accept payments in stores and online.

According to a survey named “Outbound Chinese Tourism and Consumption Trends: 2017 Survey” conducted by research firm Nielsen, over 94% of Chinese tourists expect they will utilize mobile payment methods when travelling, bringing their cashless lifestyle overseas. A record-breaking number of Chinese tourists were seen visiting Philippines in the month of February 2018 according to the Philippines Department of Tourism. (Press Release)

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Travel

AirAsia opens 3 Cebu-China routes; starts Clark flights from Cebu

Marlen Limpag

April 19, 2018 10:56 am April 19, 2018

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To meet the demand of a fast growing Chinese travel market, Philippines AirAsia will start new routes to Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Shanghai in China from Cebu in May and July….

To meet the demand of a fast growing Chinese travel market, Philippines AirAsia will start new routes to Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Shanghai in China from Cebu in May and July.

The Cebu-Shenzhen daily flights will start on May 9, 2018 with promo fares from as low as P888 for bookings until April 22, 2018 and for travel from May 9, 2018 to October 27, 2018.

“Cebuano travelers will be delighted to experience Shenzhen’s modern metropolis and marvel at how the southern city that links Hong Kong to mainland China built the world’s largest electric bus fleet, massive malls, contemporary buildings, and amusement parks,” said Philippines AirAsia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dexter Comendador.

AirAsia’s first China route from Cebu will further strengthen the company’s network outside Metro Manila and open up new and exciting places to visit this summer, he added.

NEW AIRASIA ROUTES. (From left) Allenie Caccam, AirAsia Senior Marketing Manager for International Routes; AirAsia CEO Dexter Comendador; Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Antonio Chiu; and Domestic Marketing Manager Cathy Cabahug.

“AirAsia feels strongly about developing tourism and trade outside of Metro Manila,” Comendador also said. In Cebu, he was grateful for the support of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI).

New domestic, international routes

One more route, Cebu-Hangzhou, will be opened in May and a third, Cebu-Shanghai, will start in July. Comendador said they’re still getting the necessary permits and will announce the inaugural dates for these flights soon.

Allenie Caccam, AirAsia Senior Marketing Manager for International Routes, said the new Cebu-China routes would invite more Chinese tourists and businessmen to visit Cebu and experience how wonderful it is as a destination. At the same time, more tourists in the Visayas and Mindanao would get connected to AirAsia’s international routes.

NEW CEBU-CHINA ROUTES. Philippines AirAsia will start new routes to Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Shanghai in China from Cebu in May and July.

Philippines AirAsia will also start Cebu-Clark flights on May 11, 2018. Seats for this route are being offered from as low as P17 only for bookings up to April 22, 2018 and travel between May 11, 2018 to October 26, 2018.

“AirAsia is here to support the government’s flagship projects to boost tourism and trade. We aim to better connect Clark to secondary cities within the Philippines like Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, Tacloban followed by inter-Asean connectivity where the AirAsia Group has massive network covering over 120 destinations in the whole of ASEAN, in greater Asia, Australia, United States, and beyond,” Comendador added.

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Tech

Smart, YouTube partnership offers free 1-hour daily access to video site

Press Release

April 19, 2018 10:12 am April 19, 2018

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PLDT wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) is giving Smart, TNT, and Sun prepaid customers free access for one hour daily to YouTube and soon to other online video services…

PLDT wireless arm Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) is giving Smart, TNT, and Sun prepaid customers free access for one hour daily to YouTube and soon to other online video services until July 15.

These subscribers can watch YouTube for one hour for free daily by simply registering to load packages like GigaSurf99, AllOutSurf99, GigaSurf 50, AllOutSurf 30, Panalo Data 30, Panalo Combo 30, Super Combo 20, and Big Time Data 70. They can enjoy this special offer for the duration of the packages that they buy.

“Through this path-breaking partnership, many more Filipinos can pursue their passions like music and entertainment, and learn a wide range of skills, hobbies, educational material, news and information through the massive library of video material of YouTube. This service is something every Filipino should have access to,” said Oscar A. Reyes, Jr., SVP of Consumer Business Market Development for PLDT and Smart.

YOUTUBE PARTNERSHIP. Filipino YouTube creators during the announcement of Smart’s partnership with the video platform. (Photo from Smart Newsroom)

Enhance digital lifestyle

“With this new offer, mobile phone users now have everyday access to the richest video library with content from every corner of the planet—for free,” Reyes said. He added that this special promo will soon be available to postpaid subscribers as well.

“We are proud to partner with YouTube to bring the service closer to our customers. This is just the start of a fruitful partnership, and we are working on a lot of other exciting initiatives that will enhance the digital lifestyle of Filipinos,” Reyes said.

Aside from YouTube, another video service is also set to be part of the offer. Access to Smart360, a web portal where Smart, TNT and Sun subscribers can access various digital content like live TV, movies, series, music and games, will soon be free for a limited time. Other video content providers are also eligible to be included in the offer, subject to mutually agreed terms with Smart.

Smart, TNT and Sun subscribers are now better able to enjoy video streaming services like YouTube as a result of Smart’s massive network investments over the past several years which has enabled the mobile phone carrier to provide high-speed mobile data services via its expanded LTE and 3G networks throughout the country.

Internet experience at par with the world

To provide customers with a better video and mobile internet experience, Smart is accelerating the deployment of LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) and carrier aggregation technology to more areas this year. Carrier Aggregation (CA), a feature of LTE-A, enables the combination of two or more radio frequency bands in order to deliver bigger bandwidth and much faster data speeds, which are crucial in providing the best video streaming experience to mobile phone users.

Smart has already rolled-out 3CC CA sites in cities across Metro Manila, as well as in major cities in other regions of the country, including Baguio, Calamba, Iloilo, Bacolod, Tagbilaran, Ormoc, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Zamboanga, among others. In Metro Manila and areas where there is a concentration of capable devices, Smart is also deploying 4CC, starting with Marikina and Quezon City, where customers with 4CC CA-capable devices like the Samsung Galaxy S8 have reported enjoying data download speeds of over 200 Mbps.

Smart’s accelerated deployment of LTE-Advanced follows the stepped up roll out of its LTE network. It is also upping the ante by deploying another LTE-A based technology called 4×4 Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO), which raises the radio frequency efficiency by using multiple antennas for sending and receiving data.

Parent company PLDT has committed historic levels of resources to support network transformation. Capital expenditures reached P40 billion in 2017, of which about 67% was allotted for the mobile network. For 2018, PLDT capex is expected to reach P58 billion, which includes allocations for the aggressive roll-out of its fiber broadband service, which also supports the stepped-up deployment of the mobile network by providing high-capacity links for cellular base stations. (Press Release)

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Community Tech

Dell EMC turns ocean plastic into packaging; recycles e-wastes into new components

Max Limpag

April 18, 2018 10:54 am April 18, 2018

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When you unbox the highly-rated XPS 13 2-in-1 you will find packaging made of recycled ocean-bound plastics, the result of a key project that is part of the Dell EMC…

When you unbox the highly-rated XPS 13 2-in-1 you will find packaging made of recycled ocean-bound plastics, the result of a key project that is part of the Dell EMC Legacy of Good global corporate initiative.

Dell EMC collects plastics from beaches and waterways and recycles these into product packaging, which is a first for the industry, the company said.

Dell EMC will turn eight tons of ocean-bound plastic into packaging this year, with a goal of using 10 times that volume by 2025, said Elizabeth Pabunag of Dell EMC Corporate Communications. Pabunag gave a briefing on the company’s key corporate social responsibility program to journalists at their office in the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City.

RECYCLED PACKAGING. Elizabeth Pabunag of Dell EMC Corporate Communications shows the packaging tray made from recycled ocean-bound plastic (right). At left is the one made from bamboo.

Sustainability at every stage

In 2017, Dell EMC reported that its recycling program kept 16,000 pounds of plastic from entering the ocean. The plastic recovered from beaches and waterways are refined, mixed with recycled plastic bottles and food containers, and then molded into packaging trays for the company’s products.

Pabunag said Dell EMC takes a “lifecycle approach” on recycling that focuses on “sustainability at every stage.” She said 99% of the company’s manufacturing waste is diverted from landfills into the “world’s largest recycling program with services in 83 countries and territories.”

She said 22 million pounds of plastic parts have been created under this closed-loop plastics supply chain since May 2014.

RECYCLING PROGRAM. Dell EMC reported that by recycling plastic into packaging such as the one in the photo, they kept 16,000 pounds of plastic from entering the ocean.

E-waste into new components

Apart from plastics, Pabunag sa Dell EMC also recovers precious metals from electronic products and recycles them into components.

“Currently only 12.5% of e-waste is recycled into other products. As a result, it’s estimated that Americans throw away $60 million in gold and silver every year through unwanted phones alone,” Dell EMC said in a press statement.

TARGET. Dell EMC will turn eight tons of ocean-bound plastic into packaging this year, with a goal of using 10 times that volume by 2025, said Elizabeth Pabunag of Dell EMC Corporate Communications.

Pabunag said Dell EMC is the first to recycle gold from old computers into new motherboards. She said its supplier in Tawain was able to make connectors for 6 million new motherboards from 2.27 kilos of gold that the company recovered from discarded motherboards.

Less environmental damage

The process causes 99% less environmental damage and avoids $1.6 million in “natural capital costs.”

Pabunag also highlighted the company’s partnership with actress and entrepreneur Nikki Reed for the Circular Collection by Bayou with Love and Dell, a limited jewelry line made from gold recovered by Dell EMC’s recycling program.

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Lifestyle

Big discounts, exciting deals in 3-day SM Seaside sale

Press Release

April 11, 2018 11:12 pm April 11, 2018

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Get huge discounts on top brands like Cath Kidston, Guess, Ziya, Clinique, Sperry, Florsheim Kids USA, Onesimus, Mizuno, All Flip-Flops and other stylish finds at The Great Seaside Sale on…

Get huge discounts on top brands like Cath Kidston, Guess, Ziya, Clinique, Sperry, Florsheim Kids USA, Onesimus, Mizuno, All Flip-Flops and other stylish finds at The Great Seaside Sale on April 13, 14, and 15.

Alberto, Pabder, Arrow, Pacsafe, Urbanize, and Dickies are offering up to 70 percent off on selected items during the three-day sale at SM Seaside City Cebu.

Top shops like Izod, Van Heusen, Oro Italia, Saturday Dress, Islands Souvenirs, Terranova, Calliope, Mango, Gold Creation, Hush Puppies, Time Depot, Onesimus, Primadonna, Ziya, Oro China, The Face Shop are offering half the price off on certain products and pieces.

Other great deals: lip bundling promo at MAC Cosmetics; discounts by Geox, Seiko, Levi’s, Sperry, Parfois, M. Lhuillier Jewellers, Unisilver, Hannah’s, St. Paul’s, Perfect Secret, Onitsuka Tiger, Eye Society, and ME&U; buy one, get one on all items at Yves Rocher; save and spend promo at Forever 21.

Enjoy big markdowns when you shop during The Great Seaside Sale and get a chance to bring home a brand new Suzuki Celerio during the grand raffle draw at 10 p.m. on April 15.

More deals for Advantage, Prestige, BDO Rewards members

SM Advantage, SM Prestige and BDO Rewards members enjoy exclusive deals when they shop at The SM Store and other participating SM affiliate stores:

Prestige Friday

There’s an extra 10 percent off for SM Prestige and BDO Rewards Diamond members when they shop at The SM Store, Ace Hardware, Our Home, Kultura, Toy Kingdom, Surplus Shop, Uniqlo, Forever 21, SM Appliance Center, Sports Central, Crocs, Levi’s, Miniso, and The Baby Company for the whole day of April 13.

SMAC Saturday

SM Advantage, SM Prestige, BDO Rewards members also get 10 percent off on top of sale discounts from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday when they shop at The SM Store, Ace Hardware, Our Home, Kultura, Toy Kingdom, Surplus Shop, Uniqlo, Forever 21, SM Appliance Center, Sports Central, Crocs, Levi’s, Miniso, and The Baby Company.

Sunday Special

SM Advantage, SM Prestige, BDO Rewards members get an additional 10 percent discount when they shop from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday at The SM Store, Ace Hardware, Kultura, Levi’s, Miniso, Sports Central, and Surplus Shop.

Free, discounted rides to SM Seaside City

Thinking of using Grab to get to SM Seaside City sale? Get P50 off on your ride by using the promo code SMSEASIDE50.

There will also be free MyBus rides to SM Seaside City at hourly intervals from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily at the following routes:

Fuente Osmeña-V. Rama-N. Bacalso-SM Seaside City
Pick-up and drop-off at BDO Fuente and SM Seaside City and pick-up only at V. Rama Skywalk (USC South Campus) and N. Bacalso Ave. Skywalk (Salazar Institute of Technology)

Fuente Osmeña-Banawa-Labangon-N. Bacalso-SM Seaside City Cebu
Pick-up and drop-off points at BDO Fuente and SM Seaside City; pick-up only at Petron Gas Station and Paseo Arcenas along R. Duterte St., Katipunan St. Skywalk near Labangon Elementary School, N. Bacalso Ave. Skywalk near Salazar Institute of Technology; drop-off only at N. Bacalso Ave. Skywalk along B. Aranas Extension and V. Rama Ave. Skywalk near USC South Campus.

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Lifestyle

Ian in 3 Acts in Cebu

Press Release

April 5, 2018 7:40 pm April 5, 2018

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Versatile actor Ian Veneracion will show another side of him to Cebuanos this coming April 21. Ian will be staging a concert dubbed “Ian in 3 Acts” at the Waterfront…

Versatile actor Ian Veneracion will show another side of him to Cebuanos this coming April 21. Ian will be staging a concert dubbed “Ian in 3 Acts” at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Ian in 3 Acts is on April 21 at 8pm, featuring LA Santos and special guests. Tickets are available in Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino and SM Customer Service counters. For ticket inquiries, call 232-6888 or 0915 535 3873. (Press Release)

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Business

Smart wins Grand Prix, Grand Anvil at Oscars of PR

Press Release

April 5, 2018 8:31 am April 5, 2018

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Smart Communications maintained its winning streak at the Anvil Awards, receiving top honors for the third straight year at the Oscars of public relations in the Philippines. In a ceremony…

Smart Communications maintained its winning streak at the Anvil Awards, receiving top honors for the third straight year at the Oscars of public relations in the Philippines.

In a ceremony held recently in Taguig, Smart won the Grand Prix Award for having the highest number of Gold Anvils this year. The company also got the Grand Anvil recognition for SHINE OS+ (Secured Health Information Network and Exchange), an electronic medical record system that enables health facilities to provide faster and better service to their patients. The Grand Anvil is given to the most outstanding public relations program of the year.

The Anvil Awards has been conducted annually for 53 years by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines.

ANVIL AWARDS. Smart representatives – led by Chief Financial Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla (center), SVP for consumer business market development Oscar Reyes Jr., and public affairs FVP Mon Isberto – receive Anvil awards last March 23 at Shangri-La Fort.

Smart received Gold Anvils for the following corporate social responsibility, employee engagement, and customer service programs:

SHINE OS+, an open system that allows developers to create plugins addressing the various needs of health workers. Among the plugins created are a system that automates the sending of reminder SMS to diabetes patients, and a plugin that enables nurses in Nepal to collect health surveillance and preparedness data during and after disasters.

Learning as One Nation, an effort to help improve the Department of Education’s Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) program in General Santos and Sarangani. Smart is helping develop an app that teaches Arabic language and values, while promoting independent learning among ALIVE students through the Dynamic Learning Program created by Ramon Magsaysay Awardees Dr. Christopher Bernido and Dr. Ma. Victoria Carpio-Bernido.

School-in-a-Bag, a learning package donated to public schools in remote areas without electricity. The donation includes a solar panel, mobile devices, digital educational content, teacher training, and monitoring.

TNT Tropang Ready Caravan, which inculcates disaster preparedness among college students and encourages them to promote preparedness in their respective communities

Smart Saturdays, a program where employees pay a participation fee to watch blockbuster movies with their families and colleagues. The participation fees are then used to donate School-in-a-Bag units to underserved schools.

Smart Chatbot, a tool on Facebook Messenger that enables Smart customers to view their billing statements and remaining balance, subscribe to promos, purchase eLoad, and request to chat with an agent.

Meanwhile, Smart’s Silver Anvil awardees are Smart Bro’s Bond Like Never Before campaign which encourages parents to use mobile technology to bond with their children, Doon Po Sa Amin Storytelling Caravan which promotes local storytelling for Filipino children, the Paskong Pinoy yearend celebration for employees, the PLDT Group’s efforts to transform its corporate culture to support its digital pivot, the Smart Communities Facebook page which provides information about Smart’s CSR programs, and Smart Millenniors which engages the youth to guide their elders on the use of mobile devices and the internet.

The Silver Anvil list also includes Smart Paywall, a web tool that helps Smart Bro customers avoid unwanted mobile internet charges; Smart TechnoCart, a donation package similar to the School-in-a-Bag that targets more urban communities and contains more devices; the SWEEP (Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program) Awards which encourages students to create innovations solving real problems; the TNT App and TNT Online Store which make it easier for TNT customers to complete transactions; and TNT Tropa Trip, a nationwide summer road show promoting the Choose Your Tropa Apps promo. (Press Release)

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Feature Tech

Here’s how to make your internet connection (a bit) faster, more private

Max Limpag

April 4, 2018 11:14 am April 4, 2018

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When you connect to a website, the first thing that happens is that your device queries for the location of the servers that host the content. When you type an…

When you connect to a website, the first thing that happens is that your device queries for the location of the servers that host the content.

When you type an address like Facebook.com, for example, your system needs to find the numeric address or the Internet Protocol (IP) address of the server that hosts the site, such as 31.13.72.36. This arrangement, called Domain Name System (DNS), is analogous to a phonebook.

That process is what technology company Cloudflare wants to speed up with its recent announcement on the availability of the 1.1.1.1 DNS service. The service is run in partnership with the Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre or APNIC, the regional registry that manages the allocation of IP addresses.

Here’s an explainer video on DNS

“Unfortunately, by default, DNS is usually slow and insecure. Your ISP, and anyone else listening in on the Internet, can see every site you visit and every app you use — even if their content is encrypted. Creepily, some DNS providers sell data about your Internet activity or use it target you with ads,” Cloudflare said in announcing the free service.

By default, your connection uses the DNS settings of your Internet Service Providers or ISP such as PLDT Home. To use the services of 1.1.1.1, you just need to adjust settings in your router, computer, or phone.

CHANGING ROUTER SETTING. To use the service, you need to change a setting in your router or device. The image shows the setting change for the PLDT DSL modem.

I switched our home connection for a couple of days now and there are discernible improvements in the speed of the loading of pages. Before 1.1.1.1, we used Google’s public DNS, which are 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4.

Before Google’s public DNS, we used for some time OpenDNS, which are 208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220. OpenDNS has the added functionality of blocking harmful locations such as phishing sites and filtering porn content.

FAST. DNSPerf ranks 1.1.1.1 as fastest DNS service globally.

DNSPerf data back up the service’s claim to being the fastest. It ranked 1.1.1.1 at number 1 with a query speed of 13.67 ms. OpenDNS ranked 2nd with a speed of 20.69 ms. Google’s public DNS had a speed of 34.46 ms.

SPEED, PRIVACY. The new DNS service by Cloudflare and APNIC offers speed and guarantees privacy, according to its announcement.

But a key draw to the 1.1.1.1 service is its guarantee on privacy.

“Frankly, we don’t want to know what you do on the Internet—it’s none of our business—and we’ve taken the technical steps to ensure we can’t,” the service announcement said.

The partners said the “will never log your IP address (the way other companies identify you).” To back their claim, the partners said they signed up KPMG to audit their systems to make sure they are doing what they promised.

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Business Tech

Fujitsu PH expands array of cloud solutions, services in VisMin

Press Release

April 3, 2018 12:12 pm April 3, 2018

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Fujitsu Philippines, Inc., a leading Information Technology (IT) systems integrator and solutions provider, is strengthening its array of cloud offerings in Visayas and Mindanao amid the growing market demands in…

According to Raul “Cricket” Santiago III, president and CEO of Fujitsu Philippines, the VisMin markets sustained a stellar development, especially that their “next wave cities” like Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Davao offer the necessary infrastructure, security, labor pool, and government policies, that attract investors to grow their businesses in the region.

Cloud solutions

“As these markets continue to thrive, organizations of all sizes across all industry sectors are realizing the importance of moving to new cloud models,” added Santiago. To support the goals of these organizations, this year, Fujitsu Philippines sets to offer a more comprehensive range of trusted cloud solutions not just for its growing number of customers, but also for potential clients in the area.

CLOUD SOLUTIONS. Fujitsu Philippines Sales Director for Visayas-Mindanao Terry Ybanez, Managed Services and Cloud Mark Pandy, Marketing Director Marje Balbuena and Marketing Associate Erika Garcia.

“Our goal is really to bring our global cloud expertise closer to organizations in Visayas and Mindanao, which need a wide array of solutions and services for their IT requirements,” said Santiago. “We want to work with them, together with our systems integration partners, in ensuring the deployment of solutions that tackle their IT challenges and maximize their business potential.”

At present, Fujitsu Philippines has two cloud infrastructures present in the country, one in Metro Manila and the other in Metro Cebu, making it more reliable and compliant with industry standards.

Satellite offices

Aside from these data centers, the company also has a satellite office in Davao, which was opened last year, and in Sta. Rosa in Laguna.

Fujitsu Philippines offers public, private, and hybrid cloud offerings, geared towards helping companies achieve the success of their cloud adoption more rapidly, at lower costs, and with greater agility. It also extends standardized IT services, which can be used within a short lead time without having to deal with complex hardware and software.

For enterprises that need to implement their own cloud infrastructure, Fujitsu Philippines also offers pre-integrated and tested infrastructures for faster implementation and earlier savings with minimum cost outlay.

“With over 40 years of relevant experience in the local market, Fujitsu has already established positive results for our cloud customers nationwide. We want to continue shaping a better future in these emerging and markets by driving business agility, greatest cost-efficiencies, and rapid innovation for organizations, wherever they may be in their cloud adoption journey,” said Santiago.

Aside from cloud solutions and services, Fujitsu Philippines also provides businesses with cutting-edge IT solutions and services nationwide. It has also made Japanese IT design and technology available through its server, storage, and scanning hardware and solutions.

To know more about Fujitsu Philippines, Inc., visit the website at http://www.fujitsu.com/ph.

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News

Mega Cebu conducts training on traffic management

Press Release

April 3, 2018 11:27 am April 3, 2018

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Mega Cebu, in partnership with the Cebu Provincial Government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau 7 (DENR-EMB 7) started the Metro Cebu Traffic Administration…

The training was conducted with the assistance of the University of the Philippines – National Center for Transportation Studies (UP NCTS). The 5-day training course, which will run until Friday, targets traffic administrators and managers as well as city and municipal planners from Metro Cebu LGUs, national government agencies, and representatives from transport groups and the private sector.

The purpose of the Traffic Administration Course is to orient participants on the principles and rationale of transportation planning and traffic engineering and management. Lectures and workshops were designed to enhance the understanding of the topics covered during the lectures and case discussions. This will give the trainees a chance to practice basic transportation planning and traffic management skills and demonstrate their competence to provide possible solutions to traffic-related problems.

Eight experts and lecturers primarily from the UP NCTS headed by UP NCTS Director Dr. Ma. Sheilah G. Napalang and former Undersecretary of Department of Transportation and Communications (currently DoTr) Dr. Primitivo C. Cal were tapped for the course.

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT. Dr. Hilario Sean O. Palmiano, one of the lecturers from UP NCTS, talks about Traffic Engineering and Management during the Metro Cebu Traffic Administration Certificate Course Training on April 2 at the Golden Prince Hotel & Suites.

The training is part of Mega Cebu’s ongoing initiative to establish the Metro Cebu Traffic Enforcers Academy, which aims to standardize the functions and the competencies of a Traffic Enforcer, which will be a first in the Philippines. The Subcommittee on Transport and Traffic Management of the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board Research, Program and Organizational took on complying with two strategic requirements.

First is the institutionalization of the academy through the help of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in Central Visayas. Second is the competency development of the first batch of MCTEA trainers before taking the Trainers Methodology 1 of TESDA.

Attendance in the training by UP NCTS is part of the pre-qualification criteria to be part of the first batch of MCTEA trainers who will take TESDA’s trainers methodology training.

Governor Hilario Davide III, Chairperson of the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board (MCDCB), emphasized in his welcome remarks the importance of standardizing traffic policies and synchronizing the traffic laws in Metro Cebu to address the worsening problem on traffic.

On the other hand, DENR EMB 7 Director William Cuñado said in his welcome speech that with the implementation of better traffic management, the pollution of the metropolitan area will be minimized since traffic congestion occurrence will be decreased thru proactive enforcement of mitigating measures.

Dr. Sheila Napalang, on her part, shared that the traffic situation in the urban areas will be alleviated if only the road users are kind to each other, meaning the drivers are disciplined and courteous to each other and the pedestrians obey the pedestrian traffic rules and regulations at all times. (Press Release)

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Lifestyle Travel

Eggciting Easter at Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu

Press Release

March 30, 2018 7:50 pm March 30, 2018

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Families are in for magical fun and delectable delights at Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu on Easter Sunday, April 1, as the hotel sets a fairytale-themed celebration called Eggciting…

Families are in for magical fun and delectable delights at Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu on Easter Sunday, April 1, as the hotel sets a fairytale-themed celebration called Eggciting Easter.

Eggciting Easter will feature a variety of children’s activities including face-painting, a magic show, balloon twisting, DIY cupcake art and film showing inside Pusô Bistro & Bar. It will culminate with an egg hunt at the breezy and open-air 7th-floor poolside. Children’s activities will be from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and is at P500 net per child inclusive of lunch buffet.

Everyone in the family will likewise enjoy indulging in Pusô Bistro & Bar’s Easterrific Feast, a holiday spread featuring hearty mains, Easter-inspired pastries and desserts, homemade pasta, fresh salads, sumptuous barbecues and more. Easterrific Feast is available for lunch at P700 net per person and for dinner at P850 net per person.

On top of the spread, guests may also raise a toast to the day’s celebration with Cheers to Easter. On the day there will be a Wine & Beer Buffet available at P500++ per person and Free-Flowing Sparkling Wine and Mimosa at P450++ per person.

It is an extremely ‘eggciting’ celebration at Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu on Easter Sunday. For inquiries or reservations, guests may call +6332 402 5999 or follow Quest Hotel & Conference Center Cebu and Pusô Bistro & Bar on Facebook and Instagram. (Press Release)

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Community Tech

Smart powers PH Red Cross-Nokia disaster response solution

Press Release

March 28, 2018 11:26 am March 28, 2018

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PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications will provide high-speed connectivity for a drone system that will help boost the disaster response efforts of the Philippine Red Cross. The drone system, which…

PLDT wireless unit Smart Communications will provide high-speed connectivity for a drone system that will help boost the disaster response efforts of the Philippine Red Cross.

The drone system, which will operate on Smart’s frequencies during times of emergency, is part of Nokia Saving Lives, a program that aims to provide communications technology and technical assistance to emergency response teams.

The initiative was showcased in Barcelona, Spain, at the recent Mobile World Congress organized by GSMA, an organization of nearly 800 operators and more than 300 mobile companies all over the world.

Drone system

The system consists of drones, a portable data center, a mobile broadband network, and applications like video streaming, gas sensing, mapping, and analytics, which can help Red Cross responders assess current status of lifelines and analyze immediate needs and gaps. This will enable Red Cross to provide emergency assistance to communities in more timely, effective and efficient ways.

Using Smart’s high-speed LTE connectivity and Nokia’s portable Ultra Compact Network, the system can also create a secure communication between drones, other equipment, and rescue team members.

The drone can be equipped with different types of cameras, sensors and speakers, and can also be used to carry first aid kits. The portable data center, meanwhile, is a computing and storage unit that can be used for immediate data analysis.

PARTNERSHIP. Representatives of Philippine Red Cross, Smart Communications and Nokia meet for the drone project. From left, PRC disaster response and chapter support unit head Archieval Molos, operations center manager May Carol Layugan, Finnish Red Cross country delegate Juan Daniel Reyes, Smart community partnerships’ Joyce Panaligan and Mary Jane Francisco, PRC disaster management services manager Resty Lou Talamayan, Smart community partnerships senior manager Nova Concepcion, Nokia Philippines chief technology officer Timothy Senathirajah, and Nokia Manila Technology Center’s Lawrence Madriaga and Kenneth Pingca.

Improve emergency response

Nicolas Bouverot, head of market unit Asia South, said: “Nokia is committed to using technology to make people’s lives better. With our Nokia Manila Technology Center, we’re honored to collaborate with Smart and the Philippine Red Cross in this disaster management enhancement project utilizing LTE connected drones in Philippines, helping the country improve emergency response, and save lives.”

“We are happy to be part of this project by providing vital communications support for the operations of the drones. This project is in line with our commitment to deploy tech innovations for the benefit of communities, particularly during times of disasters,” said PLDT and Smart public affairs head Ramon R. Isberto.

Smart is one of the three founding signatories of GSMA’s Human Connectivity Charter. The HCC aims to provide increased access to communication and information of for those affected by calamities, helping reduce loss of lives and contribute to humanitarian response.

Since its launch in 2015, HCC has grown to include over 100 mobile operator members and six humanitarian partners across more than 75 countries.

HCC was launched to enable network operators and industry partners to formalize their commitments to enhance their capacity to mitigate, prepare for, and respond to disasters through mobile technology.

Smart will provide connectivity support to Nokia drones, which will be used by the Philippine Red Cross for their humanitarian efforts.

Disaster preparedness programs

Smart’s disaster preparedness programs were cited in GSMA HCC’s annual report in 2016. These programs include Smart’s Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS), which sends out location- and hazard-specific alerts; its ICT Bayanihan series of regional summits to institutionalize emergency telecommunications teams; and the Batingaw disaster management app, which has been replicated in the Horn of Africa. In 2017, the report said Smart had sent SMS and ECBS disaster alerts to 10 million people.

The company has also been a partner of the Philippine Red Cross for disaster response efforts and blood donation drives. Smart has extended support to Red Cross chapters all over the country on various occasions and in times of calamities by providing communications facilities and helping set up first-aid stations, among other activities.

Smart’s support to the Red Cross and commitment to HCC are part of the company’s #SafePH advocacy, which aims to help build resilient communities and reduce disaster-related casualties through technology. (Press Release)

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Travel

Traveling in Cebu? Here are important phone contacts

MyCebu

March 28, 2018 10:46 am March 28, 2018

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Whether you are headed to any of its white sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, or historic places, Cebu has a lot to offer. It is an exciting and safe place to…

Whether you are headed to any of its white sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, or historic places, Cebu has a lot to offer. It is an exciting and safe place to visit.

In case you encounter problems and need to contact a tourism officer or the police, here are important phone numbers for your reference. These numbers will be included in the next update of Cebu Guide, which is part of the Digital Tourism collaboration among SMART Communications, InnoPub Media, and various local government agencies. The numbers were provided by the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office.