Tuesday, December 19, 2023
A pioneering event promoting the Philippines as a world-class health and wellness destination will have a rerun on January 26-28, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.
Dubbed the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024, the three-day event will gather under one roof the stakeholders of the multi trillion-dollar health and wellness industry – from award-winning wellness resorts to globally accredited hospitals that provide medical tourism packages, all the way to organic farms and specialty shops that offer a wide array of innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly health and wellness products and services.
With the theme “Go &Get Better,” the event highlights the promotion of regenerative tourism, which, in essence, is a strong call for making the places we visit better than we found them and pursuing economic growth while managing the social and environmental impacts of our visit.
The event is, in fact, the centerpiece of a global multi-media campaign that aims to showcase the country’s many health and wellness destinations and will feature an exhibit, a conference, business matching sessions, and various experiential activities. It is considered the the only trade fair in the Philippines promoting health and wellness tourism, products, and services. The ConFex will also launch its innovative television travel show-vlog that will allow the viewers to explore the fascinating world of health and wellness amid the breathtaking natural wonders of the Philippines. Called OTW, the acronym for “On Travel & Wellness,” it will take viewers on a virtual trip to the country’s many tourist spots while highlighting, at the same time, the importance of wellbeing, of keeping healthy and safe while leading an active lifestyle.
The 13-episode show will provide stunning views of the sun-kissed beaches, magnificent dive sites, towering mountains and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for, and it will also provide an in-depth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with regional experts. OTW will air on GMA 7’s GTV.
On its third day, the event will likewise hold a Wellness Festival called Masigabo with various programs and activities that pay tribute to the industry and sacrifices of the migrant workers, better known as overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). On hand activities are designed to make them feel better, relaxed and loved. Health and wellness experts will also deliver talks about financial health, physical wellness, beauty, sustainability, environmental protection, government regulations, and more.
Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Health DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority
(TIEZA), Duty Free Philippines (DFP), and Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).
Sponsors: Lifecore Bio Integrative Inc., Dean and Deluca Philippines, The Zen Institute,
Enjoy Health, Aba Padres Hydroponics, Conrad Manila;
Enjoy Health, Aba Padres Hydroponics, Conrad Manila;
Event Partners: Philip Dizon, Ark of Dreams, Market Social, Tourism Congress of the Philippines, Wellness Tourism Association of the Philippines, Philippine Green Building Initiative, SMX Convention Center, IQ Capture Printing Corporation, and DigitalCircles;
Media Partners: GMA Network, ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA 7 GTV, Aliw Channel 23,
Business Mirror, and DOOH PH
The Health & Wellness CONFEX is spearheaded by a team of seasoned event organizers,
wellness advocates, travel & tours agencies, and marketing & communication professionals, as headed by the country’s wellness guru, Cory Quirino, its Executive Director.
Business Mirror, and DOOH PH
The Health & Wellness CONFEX is spearheaded by a team of seasoned event organizers,
wellness advocates, travel & tours agencies, and marketing & communication professionals, as headed by the country’s wellness guru, Cory Quirino, its Executive Director.
For any inquiries or to participate at Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024, you can reach its
Secretariat by email at secretariat@wellnessconfex.com or by phone at 09277227670 (attention: Sarah Timonera)
JGF’s Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) has been enabling several SHSC members and groups through scholarships and training since 2013.
The Tagudin Agroentrepeneurs Association, Inc. (TAA), was the first farmer group organized by SHSC through the agro-enterprise clustering approach introduced by JGF. SHSC has been assisting TAA in marketing their products, agri-financing and agri technologies, among others.
“Dati kasi wala naman kaming kakayahan na magkaroon ng capital dahil nakatutok lang kami sa pagtatanim. Pero dahil sa tulong ng coop at ng JGF ay natulungan kaming makapagumpisa at magkaroon ng magandang variety ng binhi. Naturuan din kami ng iba pang kaalaman tungkol sa pagsasaka at pagnenegosyo,” said TAA’s General Manager, Michael Lorica. (“Before, we didn’t have the ability to have capital because we only focused on planting. But with the help of the coop and JGF, we were able to start planting and have access to a good variety of seeds. We were also taught other knowledge about farming and doing business.”)
“Bukod pa dito, siyempre malaking bagay rin sa amin na meron na kaming sure buyer para sa aming mga produkto” he added. (“In addition to this, of course it is also a big deal for us that we now have a sure buyer for our products.”)
FEP centers on developing smallholder farmers’ leadership and technical skills by helping them become direct suppliers of high-quality vegetables to corporate buyers such as the Jollibee Group and ensure their sustainable profitability.
With a huge pool of farmers under their cooperative, SHSC farmer members have become part of the Jollibee Group’s growing roster of produce suppliers. They started supplying green bell peppers, tomatoes, and hot peppers to the Jollibee Group in 2018. Apart from vegetables, SHSC has expanded its products for the restaurant company by supplying white onions in 2022. The SHSC farmer members have delivered a total of 170 tons of vegetables to the Jollibee Group to date.
TAA farmers, for their part, have been supplying white onions to the Jollibee Group brands since 2015. They have provided almost 600 tons of their products since their first delivery.
Farmer collaboration
For Lorica, the years of partnership between SHSC and JGF have helped reshape their mindset as member farmers and now, as entrepreneurs.
“Dahil iba-iba ang covered ng seminar ni JGF marami sa mga nakagawiang pamamaraan namin ang nabago. Kasama na rito ang paggamit ng consolidation area to promote food safety at mga training tulad ng AE Clustering Approach, soil testing, at livelihood recovery program. Tinulungan din nila kami na makakuha ng mga sapat na accreditation gaya ng Good Agricultural Practices,” he said. (“Many of our usual methods have been changed because of the different topics covered by JGF’s seminars. This includes using a consolidation area to promote food safety and trainings such as AE Clustering approach, soil testing, and livelihood recovery program. They also helped us get adequate accreditations such as Good Agricultural Practices.”)
“Ngunit para sakin ang isa pang malaking pinapagpasalamat namin sa JGF ay ang pagbibigay nila ng training para sa farming para sa mga kabataan dahil patuloy nang tumatanda ang edad ng mga magsasaka,” Lorica added. (“But for me, another big thing that we’re thankful for about JGF is how they provide farming training for the youth, mainly because the farmers in the country are continuously aging”)
Apart from providing opportunities for economically disadvantaged sectors, JGF, through its Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Scholarship program, partners with technical-vocational training institutions to provide indigent youth with the opportunity to stay in school by developing their agro-entrepreneurship skills.
The ACE Scholarship Program aligns with the United Nations’ transformative Sustainable Development Goals aimed at bringing peace and prosperity to the world, particularly its Quality Education (SDG4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG8), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG10) pillars.
Commitment to contribute
JGF has long been committed to developing relevant, effective, and sustainable programs. With the support of its partner communities and institutions, JGF continues to leverage its expertise and resources to create valuable interventions that help uplift the lives of many Filipino farmers.
“We believe that by fostering a sustainable collaboration between the Jollibee Group and FEP partners like SHSC, we help strengthen the future of the country’s agricultural sector. Together with our partners, we will continue to develop FEP into a more inclusive and expansive program that would help address the urgent needs of various farming communities and expose them to new and innovative farming practices,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson.
Since 2009, the FEP has capacitated 25 farmer groups of more than 3,000 farmers. To date, these farmers have supplied a combined 10.7 million kilos worth of assorted vegetables to Jollibee Group, which amounts to Php477 million in sales.
Monday, December 18, 2023
Gathering strength, determination, and a sea of endurance: Participants unite for the Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa 2023, capturing the essence of the long-distance triathlon journey in a single frame.
Puerto Princesa City, which forms part of the Philippines’ Last Frontier, is first on the list of ideal destinations of travelers, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers. With a good number of sports tournaments being held in the city, it is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines.”
Unstoppable. Phenomenal. Unbreakable. That’s what Puerto Princesa is as it plays host to world-class sports activities such as marine events like kite-boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana-boat ride, tube riding and hookah diving. The city also regularly hosts the “Motocross Masters of Asia.” the Philippine leg of the FIM UAM Asian Motocross Series, Puerto Princesa International Motocross Grand Prix, Thai Riders, Pinoy Riders, Mountain Bike XC Challenge, and Boxing Eve “Hamon sa Puerto Princesa”
Puerto Princesa understands that sports and tourism are interrelated and complementary driving forces for the promotion and sustainable economic development of the city as an attractive tourism destination. It continues to boost its tourist arrivals by hosting and organizing more sporting events.
The city is blessed with natural resources and landscape to hold excellent mass-participation events such as triathlons and marathons, mountain bike and motor cross races, beach volleyball, and other water sports competitions.
“Talagang naka-project na ang Puerto Princesa sa sports tourism. Syempre yung hinahabol nating sports tourism yung mayroong international flavor,” City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron said.
Mega sports events such as Ironman and dragon boat festival can be catalysts for tourism development in Puerto Princesa if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic, cultural, and social benefits.
IRONMAN 70.3 PUERTO PRINCESA-ASIA TRI-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
The second year of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa – Asia Tri-Club Championship, the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and strength, capped off the Philippines’ triathlon season. It was successfully held in Puerto Princesa on November 12.
A total of 523 foreign and Filipino triathletes from 38 countries participated in the amazing race. Satar Salem (4 hours, 22 minutes, and 25 seconds) and Leyann Ramo (5 hours, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds) both of Tri SND Barracuda dominated the top overall age group for the male and female categories, respectively.
China’s Junyu Cao finished the race in second place at 4:23.13 while Dutch Olympian Eric Van der Linden rounded off the top three finishers in the male category with 4:24.41. Ramo’s teammate Lyllian Grace Banzon trailed her at second place in 5:29.23 while American Catherine Wood completed the top three in the women’s side with the time of 5:36.26.
Tri SND Barracuda of Lanao del Norte netted the country’s top triathlon squad a whopping P500,000 purse put up by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.
The competition was divided into three segments: a 1.9-kilometer swim in Puerto Princesa Baywalk, a 90-kilometer bike ride through the city’s southern part, and a 21.1-kilometer run. The grueling course covered 113.0 kilometers, or 70.3 miles.
City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and spectators for their support for Ironman 70.3. He also showed confidence that the competition will be successfully held again in the city next year as more local and foreign delegates are expected to attend.
THIRD LEGENDS RIDE 2023
The city understands that one of the most popular ways to experience a destination is through a sports event. It allows sports enthusiasts as well as tourists to better engage with local people, nature, and culture.
That happened when about 200 local and visiting riders participated in the 3rd Legends Ride 2023 held on November 18 in Puerto Princesa. The sports activity is part of the successful Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2023.
From the starting point at Caltex Junction 3, the riders of different groups from all over the country, led by the Tamilok Motorcycle Group, marched together. The other participants were the Big Bikes, Palawan Street Monkeys, Himass Motorcycle Group/Hijos, United Sports Bike of Palawan (USP) and others on small bikes.
The route took the legend riders to Puerto Princesa landmarks such as the Montible Junction, Napsan at the Villa Francesca Resort in Simpocan, the Tala Beach Resort and straight to the Tennis Covered Court of the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, inside Balayong People’s Park.
“Thank you very much for bringing the Legends Ride to our city. Because you enjoyed it, you will definitely come back here. You are always welcome here in Puerto Princesa City,” said City Mayor Bayron at the fellowship dinner at the Tennis Covered Court as he congratulated the organizers, riders, guests, and sponsors for the successful holding of the Legends Ride 2023.
Jun Diagono, president of the National Federation of Motorcycles said they are very happy with the success of Legends Ride 2023. He set two goals in going to Puerto Princesa City: first was to unite all the big bikes clubs in the Philippines; and second, to invite various groups to the National Motorcycle Convention on April 26-27, 2024, at the Subic Bay Convention Center.
Diagono also convinced Puerto Princesa City bike legend Edward Butch Chase to hold the national convention in the city next year. He also promised to bring LMFI’s 54-member bike clubs to participate in the upcoming event, including the Federation of Bikes Club based in Mindanao.
At the awarding, the youngest rider was Blu Andre Rausa, 19 years old; and the oldest rider was Bob Del Rosario, 74 years old. The Most Organized Group is Evo Riders Club Philippines and Biggest Group is Palawan Street Monkeys. A Special Citation was given to Philip Dulatas as the overall chair of the event, and a Certificate of Greatest Appreciation for the support of William Genato, Naj Abdul, and Elroy John “Clink: Hagedorn. The Living legend award was given to Edward Butch Chase.
The other participating groups were the Legends Ride are Binuang, GBC, Bandits, Baghawi Rider Club, Bundakan Motorcycle Club and Widows Son Masonic Riders Association.
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Ironman 70.3 participants rushing from Puerto Princesa Bay |
The 2nd International Dragon Boat Festival 2023, held on November 19, attracted teams from Chinese Taipei, Manila, Cebu and Siargao which competed in the just-concluded 200-meter event. From this series of international activities, it has been proven that it is possible to raise the level of programs and activities in Puerto Princesa.
Strength, strategy, paddling speed, and teamwork were the advantages of the ‘paddlers’ who won the championship in the final competition. They showed the audience a breath-taking fight. Everyone wants to get away and no one wants to be left behind. So even on a sunny day, the applause and screams from the audience were loud and clear.
In the Women’s Category, the Alliance of Masters from Manila won the championship; 1st runner-up is the Philippine Titans – Manila; Fire Dragons A is 2nd runner-up – Manila; and Rampage is 3rd runner-up – Manila.
In the Men’s Category, Mr. Canoe from Chinese Taipei won the championship. Followed by Philippine Titans in second place, Dagun Pilipinas A in third place and Alliance of Masters in fourth place.
The battle in the Mixed Category was also uneventful where the Siargao Dragons from Surigao del Norte proved that they deserve to be champions. The Alliance of Masters placed second; Hongkong China Canoe took third place followed by SAG-1 from Manila in fourth place.
In the Masters Category where those aged 40 and above were given the opportunity to show their skills, the Sugbo Mighty Dragons from Cebu became champions; followed in second place by the Alliance of Masters; Rampage in third place; and Blue Phoenix from Manila in fourth place.
Praise and admiration were showered on the leadership of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation, or PCKDF, for taking the lead in organizing the international sports event in the city.
Also heavily praised were the efforts shown by Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron in the tremendous success achieved by the municipal government for the competition.
“It was not easy but we know that we can win these big international events of ours. Of course with the support of department heads, city hall employees and the citizens who are there to support what we do. And even the organizations that trust us for big events. I am very grateful,” said City Mayor Bayron. “Please also expect that there are many more activities to look forward to that will definitely make the city recognized by the whole world not only for its eco-tourism wealth but also to become famous as the Sports Tourism Capital of the Philippines!”
The leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is truly a gift that keeps on giving. After announcing its back-to-back Amazing Holideals and 12.12 Mega Pamasko Sale promo, comes the price drop that all has been waiting for! HONOR X8a, introduced at Php 10,990, is getting a price slash of Php 2,000 and will be available for only Php 8,990 until December 25! Hurry to any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop!
“The Holiday Season can be a bit overwhelming, so we give you this reference of HONOR best deals tailored for your needs and most importantly, budget appropriate. That said, the DSLR-like smartphone just got its much-awaited price drop. What are you waiting for, buy now,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.
HONOR X8a’s Top-notch Camera and Display Technology
DSLR-like shots from the smartphone were made possible by its 100MP Main Rear Camera, supported by both a 5MP Wide & Depth Camera and a Macro Camera. With HONOR X8a, users can capture high-definition images in vivid details and clarity. It also features a 16MP Front Camera, perfect for your captivating selfies.
The device’s HONOR Display Color Calibration technology, paired with its 6.7-inch FullView Display, allows for a better viewing experience on a large screen, with a screen-to-body ratio of 93.6%. Certified by TÜV Rheinland, HONOR X8a is also equipped with low blue light technology, ideal for people who spend long hours in front of their screens. It also has a 4500 mAh battery, and on a single charge, can deliver up to 13 hours of music streaming, or 16 hours of uninterrupted social media browsing.
This DLSR-like smartphone will be available for only Php 8,990 starting now until Christmas day! Buyers may now run to the nearest HONOR kiosks, or buy via our Partner Online Stores – Lazada (http://bit.ly/40iFPjB), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3mNbds1), and Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3ZYbqqy).
For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.
As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to fill your home with warmth and joy. The holiday season after all is a time for celebration, gratitude, and creating cherished memories.
Whether you're looking to revamp your space or surprise your loved ones with thoughtful gifts, here's a curated list of holiday gift ideas that give warmth, comfort and style for the spaces we cherish most.
- Surprise your loved ones with the gift of cozy moments this Holiday season with recliners available at Our Home.
- Unwrap the joy of comfort this season with Our Home's collection of cushions that everyone will love to have and hug.
- Share the gift of a welcoming home with candles and scents.
- Give the gift of organized beauty. Our Home’s jewelry organizers are designed to keep precious treasures safe and stylish.
- Looking for the perfect gift for those who love to host? Our Home’s serveware and barware make the perfect gifts for them.
- Nespresso machines for coffee enthusiasts that they will definitely love.
This holiday season, whether you're treating yourself or surprising loved ones, celebrate the joy of giving with these gift ideas. Fill your space with festive cheer and lasting elegance, making the holiday season even more special and memorable.
Visit OUR HOME Store at SM City Grand Central, shop online or call a Personal Shopper
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Overall financial preparedness among some Filipinos remains low despite having a clear sense of their financial priorities.
Despite having identified their financial priorities, majority of respondents who took part in the 2023 Financial Readiness Survey of leading insurer Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa) said they still lack financial readiness when it comes to securing protection instruments that address their various goals and needs. Perceived full preparedness is less than 10%. Respondents said they are fully or somewhat prepared when it comes to having funds for emergency use (34%) and for major goals (32%), personal health (32%), and investments (30%).
In terms of respondents’ top financial priorities, the latest priority rankings are consistent with the company’s 2022 survey results, although the percentages have slightly changed. Earning and saving income ranks number one at 69% (previously at 77%), followed by building wealth at 57% (from 60%), and protecting money at 39% (from 33%).
The changes in variance can be attributed to the sustained “new normal” or post-pandemic recovery. Full-time jobs and other income-generating opportunities have become more stable, allowing people room to adjust their financial priorities. Health protection ranks fourth at 29%, up from fifth spot last year at 24%. This is followed by child education at 26%, which held the fourth spot last year at 28%.
Owning adequate insurance policies does still give people peace of mind, with policy owners having a higher level of perceived preparedness compared to those without insurance ownership. As such, Sun Life Grepa plans to bolster its educational projects to inform people of the value of financial protection. These initiatives also help match people with financial products and instruments that address their specific needs.
For those wanting to insure their health, the company offers Sun Grepa Fit and Well, a comprehensive life and health protection that provides financial benefits upon early or late diagnosis of any of 114 covered critical conditions. There are also specialized health protection plans such as the Sun Grepa Senior Care for people in their golden years and Sun Grepa Cancer Care for those battling the Big C (cancer). In addition, there is the Sun Grepa ProHealth for clients looking for affordable health coverage and maximum health protection.
For owners of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) who need solutions to address their company’s and employees’ needs, Sun Life Grepa came up with Sun Life Grepa Accident ProSafe (packaged group insurance specifically designed for SMEs that offers comprehensive coverage against accidents), Sun Life Grepa Smart Care Plus (provides small business employees with protection benefits against death, accidents and illnesses), and Sun Life Grepa HIPSTER (Health Insurance Plan for Small Enterprises, an affordable insurance solution that provides life, accident, disability, and medical benefits for MSME employees).
The insurer also recently launched a new fund option called SLG Peso-Global Sustainability Growth Fund that caters to environmentally conscious investors looking to grow their finances sustainably. This peso-dominated, variable unit-linked (VUL) fund provides easy access to a mix of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)-driven global equity funds, offering investors a meaningful way to benefit from market opportunities.
Sun Life Grepa is continuously innovating financial solutions to accommodate varying concerns and preferences, giving the uninsured more ways to protect themselves and their futures.
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Gear up for the holiday season and pay with your GCash Card to enjoy discounts and deals
The holiday season is fast approaching, and we can all look forward to a truly merry shopping experience filled with amazing deals from GCash and Visa.
Amidst the season’s hustle and bustle, security and convenience in payments remains a top priority for shoppers seeking a seamless and efficient promise. GCash is here to make your shopping spree this Christmas more enjoyable as it has partnered with top brands in retail, e-commerce, and travel, providing exclusive promos and discounts when you pay with the all new GCash Card.
With the GCash card, your holiday gift shopping is just about to get even better as you experience the ultimate convenience and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes! Don’t miss out on these deals:
1. Save Php 100 and Use Your GCash Card Every Monday on Shopee
Make your Mondays brighter when you check out your cart on Shopee and enjoy a Php 100 discount on your purchases.
Simply use the promo code GCASHMONDAYS during checkout every Monday until January 1, 2024 and treat yourself to this irresistible deal to get what you want for less. This exclusive promo is valid for a one-time use every Monday, so mark your calendars and get your GCash Card ready! To learn more, visit link.
2. Link Your GCash Card to Lazada and Receive a Php 100 Voucher
Lazada and GCash join forces to bring you seamless transactions and exciting rewards. Save your new GCash Card on Lazada for the first time and receive a P100 discount voucher, adding extra joy to your online shopping experience. Visit this link for the full mechanics.
This holiday season, lahat ay Merry sa pamasko deals ng GCash, so start shopping and using your GCash Card and don’t miss out on these exciting promos!
3. Travel in Style and Save: Exclusive Discounts on Agoda Bookings
Planning a holiday getaway? GCash cardholders can look forward to an 8% discount on hotel bookings made through Agoda until December 31, 2025. Embark on a memorable journey with your family and friends while enjoying more savings when you book worldwide via this link: agoda.com/visaph.
4. Get Cashback on Accommodation through Booking.com
Make every stay memorable and rewarding with GCash and Visa and unlock up to 15% cashback on accommodation bookings until December 31, 2023 when you pay with your GCash Card through Booking.com. Just follow these steps:
- Visit https://www.booking.com/visaph.
- Create a Booking.com account
- Select an accommodation with a cashback badge
- Pay with your valid GCash Card
Get your GCash Card today and start shopping with more deals and promos to enjoy! To order, users can open their GCash app, go to “View all”, and find the “Manage” section. Click on “Cards” and tap “Order a GCash Card”. To know more, visit GCash at www.new.gcash.com/services/cards.
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