Friday, June 3, 2022
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Hands on training of SM tech-voc scholars |
One of the flagship programs of SM Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the SM group, is its scholarship program. Aside from the college education offerings, the program also provides venues for students who would like to pursue a career in the skilled labor industry.
The gradual reopening of economy not just in the country, but around the world, brings hope to more job opportunities for Filipinos who lost their jobs because of the health crisis. Indeed, the support for individuals eyeing to be part of the skilled industry is needed now more than ever.
It was in this light when SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), together with SM Foundation (SMFI), Don Bosco One TVET Phils. Inc., and the city government of Pasay partnered to give educational support to 20 deserving youth coming from Pasay. To date, SMFI has already produced more than 4,500 tech-voc graduates who are now gainfully employed.
A dream to be fulfilled
One of the current SM tech-voc scholars from Pasay is Stephen Parina. His dream is to put up his own automotive shop since aside from his interest in cars and motorcycles, he intends to uplift the economic status of his family. Both of his parents are temporary employees at the Pasay City Hall.
“Nakita ko sa Facebook post ng SM Foundation na nandun ang aking gustong course kaya dali-dali akong pumunta sa city hall ng Pasay para alamin ang mga detalye nito at kinabukasan ay nagpasa na ako agad ng mga requirements,” said Stephen, who is now studying Automotive Mechanic course at the Don Bosco Makati.
“Gusto kong matuto kung paano mag ayos ng mga sasakyan at makatapos ng pag-aaral dahil hirap kami sa aming pamumuhay. Alam ko na makakatulong ang edukasyon, kagaya ng techvoc upang matupad ang aking pangarap na makapagpatayo ng sarili kong automotive shop. Magiging susi ito upang mai-angat ko ang antas ng pamumuhay ng aking pamilya” he added.
“Taos pusong pasasalamat sa SM at sa Sy family dahil nabigyan nyo ako ng pagkakataon na makabalik muli sa pag aaral. Hinding hindi ko ito malilimutan. Dadalhin ko ito hanggang sa aking pag tanda,” Stephen said.
Ticket to success
Another current tech-voc scholar is Jeorge Angelo Madrid. He is also studying Automotive Mechanic course at the Don Bosco Makati. His father works as a painter of houses and buildings while his mother works at the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Jeorge is the youngest and most of his five siblings already have their own families.
According to Jeorge, he sees this opportunity of going back to school as his ticket towards achieving his dreams: “Nag-apply ako sa SM Foundation kasi wla po akong kakayahan na makapag aral at makapagtapos. Wala po akong pagkukuhanan ng pang tuition para maipang bayad sa eskwelahan.”
Jeorge is adamant to find a gainful employment right after he finish his studies. “Salamat po sa SM Foundation. Kung hindi dahil sa inyo, hindi madaragdagan ang kaalaman ko tungkol sa automotive. Magagamit ko ito sa aking paghahanap ng trabaho at kinalaunan, masuportahan ang aking sarili, mga pamangkin at ang aking mga magulang,” Jeorge further shared.
Reaping the fruits of his efforts
Anthony Andales, an SM tech-voc scholar alumnus, also took the time to share his inspiring story. He graduated from the Dualtech Training Center in 2019 and is now employed as a staff technician in a known company which manufactures various electronic products for home and office use.
“Bago ako mag-training sa Dualtech, nagtrabaho muna ako bilang isang helper sa isang refilling station. Ang aking arawang sweldo ay P220 lamang. Akala ko dati, wala na akong mararating sa buhay at hindi na makapagtatapos ng pag-aaral,” Anthony recalled.
“But God gave me the privilege to be chosen as one of the SM Foundation scholars para makapag-aral ako nang walang binayaran kahit piso. Ang tanging puhunan ko lang ay ang aking lakas ng loob at ang aking mga pangarap sa buhay na balang araw, makatutulong ako sa aking pamilya upang kahit papano ay makaahon sa buhay,” he further added.
Right after his on-the-job training, he was absorbed by the program’s OJT- partner company and was given a job as a staff technician because of his skills and work ethics.
“Napagawa na namin ang bahay kahit papaano, hindi man bato pero at least maayos at safe kapag may bagyo. Hindi po kagaya dati na pag umuulan ay may pa-shower kami kasi butas-butas na ang bubong at tagpi-tagpi ang dingding ng aming tahanan. Walang imposible kapag ikaw ay may pangarap at determinasyon upang maabot ito sapagkat maraming tao at institusyon na handang tumulong. Kaya sobrang thankful po talaga ako sa mga taong tumulong sa akin para magkaroon ng maliwanag na kinabukasan.” Anthony concluded.
SM Foundation, through its Scholarship program, provides deserving and qualified students with access to college education and technical-vocational studies since 1993.
Security forces of SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag and Pulilan conduct a snappy formation during the Annual Joint Tactical Inspection and General Assembly held at the Annex Parking of SM City Baliwag.The Joint Tactical Inspection and General Assembly, held by the Customer Relations Services (CRS) Department and Security Force at SM City Baliwag's Annex Parking, marks the start of June at the SM Malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan after a two-year break caused by the pandemic.
During the JTI, security force’s firearms, gear, uniform, paraphernalia as well as communication equipment and other support gadgets were examined to ensure compliance to the standards set by the company. Likewise, agency personnel for janitorial services of the malls were also evaluated.
The SM Emergency Response Team or SMERT, a special unit under the mall’s resiliency program likewise demonstrated their preparedness for disasters and hazards that may impact customers’ safety and business sustainability through simulated scenarios which include rescue and first aid treatment.
The SM Emergency Response Team or SMERT, demonstrated preparedness for disasters and hazards that may impact customers’ safety and business sustainability through simulated scenarios, including rescue and first aid treatment. The activity is one of the highlights at SM Bulacan malls Joint Tactical Inspection held at the Annex Parking of SM City Baliwag.Present to grace and inspect the security force’s performance were Provincial Director, Bulacan PPO PCOL Charlie Apil Cabradilla and SM Senior Assistant Vice President for Customer Relations Services Almus Alabe who instilled the importance of discipline, alertness and vigilance in ensuring customer safety and handling crisis and emergency situations.
Sharing honors are SAVP for Customer Relations Services of SM Retail Mr. Charleston Tan and AVP for Customer Relations Services of Food and Retail Group Mr. Victor Santiago. Also present were AVP for Mall Operations Ms. Ana Datu and Department Head of Bulacan Environmental Resources Office (BENRO) Atty. Julius Victor Carag Degala.
Present to grace and inspect at the Annual Joint Tactical Inspection and General Assembly of Security Force in SM Malls in Marilao, Baliwag and Pulilan were Provincial Director, Bulacan PPO PCOL Charlie Apil Cabradilla (3rd from left) and SM Senior Assistant Vice President for Customer Relations Services Mr. Almus Alabe (right). Sharing honors are SAVP for Customer Relations Services of SM Retail Mr. Charleston Tan (2nd from left) and AVP for Customer Relations Services of Food and Retail Group Mr. Victor Santiago (left). Also present were AVP for Mall Operations Ms. Ana Datu (3rd from right) and Department Head of Bulacan Environmental Resources Office (BENRO) Atty. Julius Victor Carag Degala (2nd from right).During the Joint Tactical Inspection, security and other agency personnel were also awarded with commendation for their honesty and trustworthiness in returning valuable recovered items to mall patrons.
The Joint Tactical Inspection is one of the annual exercises observed in all SM Supermalls nationwide that aims to examine personnel compliance to the company’s security standards and policies. SM City San Jose Del Monte Joint Tactical Inspection is slated on June 14.
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Discover a variety of items from A to Z on marked down deals as low as ₱66 in time for the 6.6 Mid-Year Sale. Aside from shopping for these Mas Mura Sa Shopee* ₱66 deals, you can also avail of shipping discount vouchers, 10% off vouchers, and so much more on 6.6.
With products to help upgrade your home and living experience, spruce up your wardrobe, and even inspire you to pick up new hobbies, here’s a list of exciting ₱66 deals from A to Z that you should add to cart now and checkout on 6.6:
A is for the Aux USB Adapter that lets you charge your phone while enjoying your favorite tunes.
Bis forthe Baseus Hanging LED Table Lamp that can illuminate your workspace at home.
C is for the Cartoon Animal Door Stopper that comes in adorable animal designs such as a wide-eyed cat or a lazy bear.
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D is for the pink Dried Flower Jelly Lipstick that provides long-lasting moisture for a more luscious pair of lips.
E is for an Essential Oil Diffuser that gives off a relaxing aroma coming from its beech, walnut, rosewood or teak finish, perfect for your every mood.
F is for the Fashion Boutique Crop Top that will keep you stylish and comfortable when you’re out and about.
G is for the Guitar Thumb Finger Pick you can use for jamming on your acoustic or electric guitar to help you dish out some awesome riffs.
H is for the Howbone Cat Snacks that’s a great catnip treat for your furry friends.
I is for the Indoor Non-Slip Slippers to wear at home, making lounging around extra relaxing and comfortable.
J is for a brand-new pair of Jogger Pants completing your trendy streetwear and athleisure outfits.
K is for a K-Pop Photocard Holder to have all your valuable K-Pop photo cards of your bias safe and secure.
L is for Lovito’s Casual Rib Tank that can be a closet staple for fashionistas who want a piece that’s simple and flattering.
M is for a MetroSunnies Speclace to keep your face mask and glasses on you at all times.
N is for a Newborn Handprint & Footprint Ink Pad that will preserve precious memories with your child.
P is for a Posture Corrector Humpback Supportthat has breathable fabric and helps reduce shoulder and back pain.
Q is for Queen Square Loafers that can be dressed up or dressed down for whatever occasion.
R is for a Refrigerator Organizer that is lightweight and sturdy to neatly stock your fresh produce and leftovers at home.
S is for a Stainless Steel Stud Earring that can bedazzle your #OOTD.
T is for Tala by Kyla’s – Stay Collection that lets you feel like the prettiest person in the room whenever you wear these accessories.
U is for a UV Toothbrush Disinfection Rack that ensures you have a clean and sterile toothbrush each time you use it.
V is for a Versatile Leather Belt to accentuate your look and be styled in a variety of ways.
W is for a Waterproof Travel Organizer that keeps all your items intact and safe from any mishaps.
X is for X9 Bluetooth Earphones that have built-in DSP audio processing system, to eliminate noise as you listen to your music uninterrupted.
Y is for Yarn Knitting Sewing Needles that are ideal for crochet and sewing hobbyists.
Z is for the Zircon Two-layer Adjustable Ring which you’ll love as a gift for yourself or your loved ones.
Play Shopee Words for daily prizes and use ShopeePay for a rewarding mid-year celebration this 6.6
As shoppers checkout their best A to Z items and count down the days leading up to 6.6, Shopee introduces its newest game that will entice app users to solve fun word puzzles while they shop.
“Shopee Words” is the latest in-app game that lets users take home daily prizes including ShopeePay credits, Shopee coins, Shopee vouchers, and brand new gadgets when they correctly solve daily puzzles.
And as a special 6.6 Mid-Year Sale treat, players will get a chance to take home big prizes, including an iPad 8th Gen when they play and solve Daily Puzzles until June 5.
For 6.6 itself, players will get a chance to win up to ₱55,000 via ShopeePay by clearing 5 levels daily in Classic mode when they play from June 6-11. To know more about Shopee’s newest game and daily prizes, visit the Shopee Words page.
Make your shopping even more sulit with ShopeePay, Shopee’s integrated mobile wallet.This 6.6, checkout these amazing A to Z deals and more with ShopeePay to get up to 66% cashback! Looking for more bargains?
On June 6, score awesome discounts with exclusive ₱6 deals from various brands and scan to pay via ShopeePay’s partner merchants like Potato Corner, National Bookstore, and Ultramega.
To add to the mid-year excitement, ShopeePay has also launched ShopeePay Ang Pao—a new and exciting way to send money for free to multiple recipients, perfect for sending gifts during special occasions. Join the “Double Ang Pao” promo to get a chance to double your money. For more exciting surprises, visit and follow ShopeePay’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
To know more about the upcoming 6.6 Mid-Year Sale, visit the 6.6 Mid-Year Sale page on Shopee.
Evolution of Fathers
The roles of fathers have gone beyond being the sole provider for the family. They are equally important in nurturing the family’s wellbeing by building strong relationships and being actively involved in child care interests and responsibilities.
Such wonderful fathers, who literally become our rock, protecting us as much as they can. Some fathers may not be huggers or emotionally attuned to us but you know they truly care deep down through their unique love language.
We are truly blessed to have fathers and father figures in our lives, who helped mold us to into what we are today. We thus salute these ‘’men’” on their special day.
Nothing beats whipping up something sweet from the heart. Make your love language food. Make this utterly #Madalicious treat, Cerveza Negra Chocolate Balls, made with Magnolia Devil’s Food Cake Mix combined with Cerveza Negra. It will pleasantly surprise your taste buds too.
Preparation Time: 40 min
Baking/Cooking Time: 25 min
Main Ingredient:
Eggs
Flour
CERVEZA NEGRA CHOCOLATE BALLS
Ingredients & Preparation HH Measurement Measure
1 (550 g) pack MAGNOLIA DEVIL’S FOOD CAKE MIX
3 (50 g each) pc MAGNOLIA BROWN EGGS
1 (330 mL) bottle CERVEZA NEGRA
1 (120 mL) cup coconut oil
COATING & DÉCOR
1/2 kg dark chocolate, chopped
100 grams pistachio nuts, chopped
1 (120 g) cup cocoa powder
1 (80 g) cup desiccated coconut
100 grams white chocolate, melted (optional)
Procedure:
1. Preheat oven to 176.7°C (350 F). Meanwhile, line and grease one (1) 12×16 inch square pan
with baking/wax paper. Set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, cerveza negra and oil. Mix until smooth in consistency.
Pour into prepared pan.
3. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool and then crumble cake and form into 1-inch balls.
4. Prepare dark chocolate by melting it for 10-15 seconds in a microwave oven over high
setting.
5. Dip each ball in melted dark chocolate and then roll each ball in pistachio nuts, cocoa
powder or desiccated coconut. Drizzle with some melted white chocolate placed in a piping
bag, if desired.
Makes 40 pieces.
(Yield: 40 pc (30 grams per ball) /4 pc per serving )
THE Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth launch global collaboration calling for more young voices in the halls of power their joint the Be Seen Be Heard campaign.
That’s because millions of young people are missing from public life. With the climate crisis, global conflict and generational inequalities running rampant, the inputs, perspectives and representation of youth are needed more than ever.
Almost half the world's population is under 30. Yet, they make up only 2.6 percent of parliamentarians around the world. The average age of a world leader is currently 62. Of all the parliaments in the world, 37% do not have a single Member of Parliament (MP) under age 30 and less than one percent of these young MPs are women.
Young people have the right to be included in political decisions that affect them, however, numerous barriers prevent their participation. The Body Shop and the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General's Envoy on Youth are collaborating to change this through the global Be Seen Be Heard campaign to amplify youth voices in public life.
The campaign seeks to create long-term structural changes to decision-making to be more inclusive of young people. It was launched last May 11 with the release of a joint report, "Be Seen Be Heard: Understanding young people’s political participation." The report which includes findings from the largest-ever survey carried out by The Body Shop in December 2021, covering 26 countries with 27,043 respondents in total, over half of which were under age 30.
The research found that 82 percent of people surveyed agree that political systems need drastic reform to be fit for the future. Across the board, 84 percent of people described politicians as "self-interested" and 75 percent of people surveyed think politicians are corrupt.
The majority, two in three people, also agree that the age balance in politics is wrong, with 8 in 10 people of all ages believing the ideal voting age (the age when someone can first vote) is 16 to 18, despite that in most countries around the world the voting age is 18 or over. A third of those under age 30 surveyed would consider running for office versus only a fifth of those over age 30. People across all age groups agree that more opportunities for younger people to have a say in policy development and/or change would make political systems better.
David Boynton, CEO of The Body Shop says, “Our position is clear. The world’s problems cannot be solved by the same people making the same choices. Our research indicates the majority of young people are positive about the future, and we need to hear their views and ideas inside the halls of power. Be Seen Be Heard is rooted in creating a fairer world with and for young people, and together with the Office of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth – we are on a mission to do exactly that.”
Jayathma Wickramanayake, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth says, “The intergenerational gap in power, influence and trust constitutes one of the biggest challenges of our time. As young people have made abundantly clear through their activism on the streets, in civil society and on social media, they care deeply about the transformational change needed to create more equal, just and sustainable societies. Participation is a right, and this campaign is an opportunity to change that.”
The Body Shop and the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth push for transformational change. Among other actions, young people’s participation in public decision-making could be improved long-term by lowering voting ages, increasing formal youth representation through youth councils, parliaments, or committees, removing barriers for young people to participate in public decision-making, simplifying registration for first-time voters, and improving young people’s leadership skills.
Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Esports fans can expect heartstopping matches from Smart Omega, the professional esports team of Smart Communications, Inc. in the upcoming Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Southeast Asia Cup (MSC) 2022.
Smart Omega, together with RSG Philippines, will carry the flag and compete against twelve (12) top teams from Thailand, Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Myanmar in Kuala Lumpur on June 11 to 19.
Hailed as “Kings of the SEA”, team captain Patrick “E2Max” Caidic, Billy “Zapnu” Alfonso, Joshua “Chaknu” Mangilog, Dean “Raizen” Sumagui, Duane “Kelra” Pillas, and Renz “Renzio” Padua will defend their MSC championship title, this time, under the banner of Smart Omega.
“We are hungrier this time. We promise to do our best to take that trophy. We are focusing more on the mental readiness of each player, not just the gameplay, because I think that’s the strength of the team: our mindset and chemistry during the game,” said Caidic.
“We want to make history as back-to-back champions of the MSC,” said Alfonso. “Hindi namin kayo bibiguin, ibibigay namin ang 100% lakas ng Pilipinas.”
The players also thanked Smart for its support, enabling the athletes to focus on the game without any problems. “We train every day, doble kayod, that’s why we’re grateful that Smart is there to help us reach the MSC,” shared Alfonso.
Smart's support for Omega Esports is part of its longstanding commitment to the growth of Philippine esports by partnering with game creators and esports tournament organizers here and abroad, including the recent Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) Seasons and Liga Adarna, the first female esports tournament in the country. Smart also backs SIBOL, the national esports team which bagged two gold medals and two silver medals at the recently concluded 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam.
“We look forward to seeing the results of Smart Omega’s hard work and dedication. We’ve always believed in our athletes’ potential and we have seen their passion for esports. We are cheering them on as they face another epic battle in the international arena,” said Jude H. Turcuato, FVP and Head of Sports at PLDT and Smart.
From grassroots to professional leagues, Smart has been working closely with the Philippine Esports Organization, local government units, and organizers to help develop the esports industry in the country. Smart also supports Filipino gamers with relevant data offers and services to level up their gameplay.
Everyone is excited to flex their fun vacation recap videos, but we all know that we have to go through that dreaded phase of meticulous budgeting, OOTD planning, itinerary preparation and countless bookings just to get a perfect travel experience.
But with a convenient, secure, and rewarding e-wallet app like GCash, you can be prepared for your next grand getaway without going through the stress and hassle of planning. With just a few taps, you can plan and pay for your entire trip itinerary without leaving home – say goodbye to lining up for anything! Even better, you can get exclusive discounts and rewards just by using GCash to pay for your trip and travel essentials.
If you’re all set to hit the ‘resume’ button on your travel bucket list, here are the many cashless travel hacks you can do with GCash for your next vacation, from planning to prepping:
● Easily snag airfare promos by paying through your e-wallet
Two things will get you through a seat sale: quick fingers and a seamless payment method. With GCash, you can conveniently pay for your flight and other add-ons without the need for a credit or debit card. There’s also no need to pay an additional holding fee when paying with cash at payment centers.
Book your flights through Philippine Airlines, Air Asia or Airpaz and pay using GCash.
● Book accommodations through credible sites
Your accommodation can make or break your vacation! Read reviews by travelers who have similar trips like you (with pet, solo, with family, etc.) and check for trustworthy booking sites that have flexible payment options.
With GCash, no need to withdraw cash, use your credit card or deal with incidental fees to pay for anything from hotels to hostels! GCash keeps your e-wallet funds secure by enabling a four-digit MPIN and a one-time password, with an option for biometric login.
Book for your hotel through Airpaz and securely pay with GCash.
● Plan and pay for your adventure before setting off
Imagine being excited to go on a thrilling island hopping adventure only to find out that the tour is fully booked? Purchase tour packages and activities ahead and pay with GCash so you no longer have to fumble with cash payments and go through the hassle of finding legit operators – more time to make memories and focus on fun times!
Check sightseeing tours, outdoor activities and events on Klook.
● Curate your travel wardrobe ahead
Whatever your aesthetic, planning your clothing and accessories ahead will help you save time and effort. No need to stuff all sorts of clothes and be flagged for excess baggage. Focus on setting home and work preparations for when you're away, because you can get your travel shopping haul done when you pay online with GCash.
Travel in style with a range of apparel from GAP, Banana Republic, OXGN, Regatta, Penshoppe, ForMe, Memo, and BOCU, which you can shop online and pay with GCash.
● Tailor equipment and accessories for your itinerary
Going on a trek? Check if your long-stored apparel can still withstand elements. Planning to get Insta- worthy photos? Make sure you have a long-lasting power bank to keep your phone running. Worried about excess baggage? You might need a microscale.
Keep your travel activities uninterrupted when you have the right apparel and equipment with you. All these and more, you can order online and conveniently pay for using GCash.
From luggages to apparel and footwear, The Travel Club has got your essentials.
Traveling is made more exciting as GCash offers a convenient payment method, exclusive discounts and rewards, and access to different stores and brands that will fulfill your dream vacation. If you want to purchase gadgets and other big-ticket items, you can also activate your GCredit on your GCash app so you won’t need to load up your e-wallet or use a credit card.
Worry less and enjoy your vacation more when you travel with GCash! Upgrade your travel experience and download the GCash app on App Store or Google Play. Get it now and #TaraGTravelNa with GCash!
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