SU American Corner trains youth on social entrepreneurship

The American Corner (AC) Dumaguete-Silliman University (SU) trained members of the youth on “Creating and Maintaining Social Enterprises” through a massive open online course (MOOC) camp from August 9 to 12, 2023.

The four-day camp aimed to strengthen the youth’s civil leadership skills, develop partnerships and collaboration techniques, and effectively propose a possible non-government organization (NGO) anchored in their advocacy.

Dr. Earl Jude Paul Cleope, SU vice president for academic affairs, led the orientation of participants.  Asst. Prof. Novee Maestrecampo, SU Office of Community Engagement OIC director, served as the keynote speaker. In his message, Maestrecampo emphasized the importance of social entrepreneurship and social impact in creating community projects.

Carmen Roceli M. Lopez, CEO of HerStore Asia, talked about making a difference through social enterprises in her message as the guest speaker on the third day of the MOOC camp.

The participants also visited the Kawayan Collective at Dauin, Negros Oriental to learn from the organization’s sustainability practices and observe how their bamboo-based products are made.

For their final output, the participants presented their NGO proposals. The judges were Francis Lianro H. Bulado, MOOC camp alumnus; Asst. Prof. Joshua Soldivillo, Project STEAMify project leader and MOOC camp facilitator; and Asst. Prof. Sarah Angiela Ragay, university librarian.

AC Dumaguete-SU culminated the MOOC camp with a graduation ceremony for the 21 course completers at the SU Audio Visual Theater 1.  Dr. Gina Bonior, College of Education dean, served as the graduation speaker. In her speech, she encouraged the completers to create projects that are beneficial for the community.

Pauline Anderson, deputy public engagement attaché of the United States Embassy in the Philippines, also delivered a congratulatory message.Completers received a certificate from the US Embassy, seed funding, and freebies like shirts.

AC Dumaguete-SU opened the application process for the MOOC camp last July 10, inviting individuals aged 18 to 35 years old to apply. (Photos: SU)

PSAC recommends a comprehensive job vision for PH by 2028

CEBU CITY -- The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC)-Jobs Sector recommended a comprehensive but transformative vision for jobs creation of over two million in the Philippines by 2028 to President Marcos and government officials during the August 17 PSAC meeting at the Malacañang Palace.

“By the IT & Business Process Association Philippines (IBPAP) numbers, the realization of this bold vision is projected to contribute Php 169 billion in annual personal income tax and inject 8.9 percent growth into the Philippine Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This transformative undertaking exemplifies a commitment to harnessing the potential of the Filipino workforce and leveraging technology for the nation's progress,” said PSAC Lead Convenor and Aboitiz Group President and CEO Sabin Aboitiz.

The PSAC meeting focused on priority sectors for the Philippines to become a significant global player while also retaining, upscaling, and creating more jobs. The ripple effect of this initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the nation's economic development.

Under a proposed roadmap of PSAC and the IT & Business Process Association Philippines (IBPAP), the Philippines is set to emerge as a global leader in the digital domain, bolstered by a targeted approach that envisions the creation of one million additional Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) jobs by 2028 and a total of 2.5 million employment opportunities, triggering a cascade of growth and prosperity across various sectors of the economy.

These positions hope to stimulate the generation of at least 550,000 new IT-BPM jobs in the countryside and 6.3 million indirect job opportunities across various industries such as food, logistics, real estate, retail, and transportation.

The allocation of direct scholarship funds towards IT-BPM training and upskilling, with support from the Office of the Presidential Assistant on Investment and Economic Affairs (OPAIEA) and the Private Sector Jobs & Skills Corp (PCORP), is among these recommendations. The goal is to train 500,000 individuals annually with a budget of Php 4 billion.

The synergy among the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to enhance enterprise-based training programs is also recommended. This recommendation includes extending Senior High School immersion from 80 to 640 hours, promoting higher education internships, and fostering apprenticeships.

While the implementation of these recommendations requires collaborative effort between the government and private sectors, PSAC - Jobs and IBPAP earnestly call for joint support and collective action to drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and enable the Philippine workforce through AI upskilling and forward-looking interventions.

In presenting this roadmap to PBBM, PSAC - Jobs and IBPAP affirm their commitment to shaping a future-ready Philippines, where cutting-edge technology, workforce empowerment, and economic growth seamlessly converge.

Other PSAC recommendations also emphasize industries that could boost job creation. One of these industries is agriculture, where synergies between the private sector and the Department of Agriculture play a crucial role. The ongoing study to help develop the habal-habal and motorcycle taxi program could generate one million jobs. The recommendation also incorporates private sector participation in which it aims to connect an estimated 200,000 agri MSMEs and can generate over 400,000 additional jobs.

The council also proposed the improvement of the Philippines' Shipping Registry, through legislation that could enable a robust administrative framework to facilitate maritime trade.

The council also supports the reinstatement of PEZA's one-stop-shop role, which aims to provide streamlined services to foreign companies in economic zones.

All these, among other comprehensive recommendations, were presented by PSAC's Job Sector. PBBM and government officials are poised to deliberate on these recommendations and explore their implementation to drive the Philippines forward as a global economic powerhouse. (Photos: PSAC/Google Images)

 

Digital literacy, mental health awareness training for seniors in Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu

CEBU CITY -- PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) partnered with the local government of Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu City and Passerelles numériques Philippines (PNPh) for trainings on basic smartphone usage, internet safety, and mental health awareness for over 200 senior citizens in the cities of Cebu and Lapu-Lapu.

“We see these training sessions as a way to include and empower our senior citizens in knowing how to navigate the path toward modernization. At PLDT and Smart, we do not only seek to continuously innovate our services, but we also work to guide our senior citizens, who are among our most vulnerable customers. This is also one of our ways to ensure that no one gets left behind in an increasingly digital world,” said Marylou Gocotano, PLDT and Smart Stakeholder Management Visayas Relations Head.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan thanked PLDT and Smart for organizing the activity for senior citizens in Lapu-Lapu City enabling them to adapt and make use of digital technologies today.

Atty. Paolo Manit, Office of Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA), Cebu City said, this initiative to equip seniors with digital literacy and internet safety training to improve their quality of life, and to underscore the importance of mental health in today’s digital age through its Better Today PH platform, are aligned with the group’s digital inclusion and digital wellness thrusts.

“Our senior citizens have already adjusted to the modern world and teaching them how to use modern devices such as smartphones will prevent them from being easily scammed. Thank you PLDT, Smart, and PNPh for partnering with Cebu City LGU for such a wonderful advocacy,” Mainit added.

Over 100 student-scholars from PNPh have also participated in the training to guide senior participants on digital literacy, covering topics on basic parts of smartphones, social media applications, surfing the internet through search engines, cybersecurity, and identity theft. (Photos: PLDT/Smart)

 

 

Delfingen, ACEN RES to pioneer Cebu’s automotive industry to 100% renewable energy

 CEBU CITY – Delfingen, a French automotive supplier known globally for its on-board network’s protection solutions and fluid transfer tubing for vehicles committed to a greener future, transitioning its Cebu manufacturing operations to a 100% renewable energy supply through its partnership with Ayala group’s ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions (ACEN RES).

"Our unwavering commitment to reducing our carbon footprint goes hand in hand with maintaining our products' global standards. As we transition to renewable energy, we not only contribute to environmental preservation but also bolster our customers' sustainability goals," Edmark Perez, Delfingen Cebu plant manager said.

Ela Mina, ACEN RES assistant vice president and head of account management expressed deep pride and excitement at being chosen by Delfingen as its energy supplier and sustainability partner.

"Our mission at ACEN RES is not just about simplifying the transition to renewables for businesses in the Philippines. It's about igniting a broader transformation in corporate sustainability, championing the use of renewable energy as a concrete step towards achieving ESG goals,” Mina bared.

Through this partnership with Delfingen, ACEN RES is not only providing a more sustainable energy source, but also creating significant cost savings and fostering a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations, Mina added.

Delfingen was formerly powered by conventional sources but it made the decisive leap to fully renewable energy, utilizing the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), the government initiative that empowers customers with an average demand of at least 100 kilowatts to source power from renewable sources, such as solar, wind and geothermal, and choose their renewable energy supplier over the local distribution utility operating within their region.

ACEN RES on the other hand is the retail electricity arm of the Ayala Group.  It stands at the forefront of renewable energy solutions and as a licensed retail electricity supplier, ACEN RES powers businesses and industries through the RCOA and the GEOP, making a significant contribution to the reduction of global carbon emissions and reinforcing the critical importance of ESG considerations in businesses today.

ACEN RES’ generation company, ACEN, continues to aggressively expand its portfolio across its key markets in Asia Pacific as part of its bold aspiration to reach 20 GW of renewables by 2030.

According to Delfingen, this groundbreaking shift will significantly reduce the carbon emissions of Delfingen, making a substantial contribution to global climate change mitigation efforts.  It will also transition Delfingen’s, helping reduce the company’s carbon emissions.

ACEN RES’ portfolio of renewable energy assets now reaching 4,330 MW in capacity, will supply Delfingen with clean energy.  This is a bold step in both companies’ commitment to a sustainable future as it targets to avoid approximately 4,150 tons of carbon emissions throughout the duration of the contract.

ACEN RES is the listed energy platform of the Ayala Group with 4,400 MW of attributable capacity from owned facilities in the Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia and India, with a renewable share of 98 percent which is among the highest in the region.

ACEN’s aspiration is to be the largest listed renewables platform in Southeast Asia, with a goal of reaching 20GW of renewables capacity by 2030. ACEN is committed to transition the company’s generation portfolio to 100 percent renewable energy by 2025 and to become a Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions company by 2050. (Photos: Delfingen/ACEN FB/Google Images)

 

Some 600 socialized housing units soon to rise at Cambuhawe, Balamban

BALAMBAN, Cebu—Some 600 socialized housing units will soon rise at the Cambuhawe area in Balamban, Cebu described as “Sweetberries Community”, an upcoming residential development marked a significant milestone in its groundbreaking ceremony on August 18, 2023 as Sunberry Homes Inc. continues to develop integrated, vibrant, and sustainable communities with affordable and quality home living.

“It's about creating a thriving community where families can truly flourish. We are excited to break ground on this new project, and we look forward to nurturing families and contributing to the growth of Balamban,” Beverly Dayanan, the Founder, President, and CEO of Sunberry Homes, Inc. said, in her message during the launching event.

Dayanan added that Sweetberries Community is more than just a housing project; it is a well-planned development strategically provided for families in the progressive municipality of Balamban to enjoy charming and cozy homes built within a safe neighborhood.  “A complete home living is not just about a roof over your head,” she said.

Located just 800 meters away from the Transcentral Highway, Sweetberries Community boasts an ideal location that combines accessibility and convenience. Its proximity to key landmarks such as Gaisano Town Center, Balamban Public Market, and healthcare facilities further adds to its appeal.

The development will feature a range of amenities, including 24/7 security, a clubhouse, chapel, basketball court, kids' playground, and open spaces network. The housing options include convertible 1-bedroom units with spacious living areas, dining rooms, and kitchens.

Sunberry Homes Inc., the developer behind Sweetberries Community, has a proven track record of delivering quality homes and vibrant communities. Established in 2014, Sunberry Homes has been recognized as one of the top developers, notably achieving recognition as the No. 1 Housing Developer in Visayas in terms of Takeout Loan Value for two succeeding years in 2017 and 2018.

The company is dedicated to improving the lives of Filipinos through responsible development and a commitment to contribute to nation-building. For more information about the Sweetberries Community, contact the sales and marketing supervisor at 231-0005 / 0925 3100 208 or email sunberryflor@gmail.com.

According to Dayanan, these housing units are very affordable to the minimum wage earners. It is a 37sqm lot area fully finished one-bedroom unit within an area where other amenities also exist like a Chapel, basketball court, edible garden, underground drainage system and more.

With the Tsunishi and the MEPZ in Balamban. the development of Sunberry Homes is timely.  Sweetberries Community housing units are not only affordable, they are well-planned features and amenities for an ideal socialized housing community.

It is a one-hour and 16 minutes car ride (46.6km) from Cebu City to Cambuhawe, Balamban; 800 meters away from the Transcentral Highway; eight mins walk or two mins car ride from the Gaisano Town Center; five mins motorcycle ride (1.6km) from Balamban Public Market; five mins motorcycle ride to Town Center and six mins motorcycle ride to Balamban District Hospital and Balamban Provincial Hospital.

The Sweetberries Community is secure and gated with entrance gate with guard house Perimeter security fence and 24/7 security.  Basic amenities include Chapel, Clubhouse, Basketball court, Children's playground, Open spaces network and Property management services.

Most housing units are ONE-STOREY TOWNHOUSE; End Unit lot area at 52 sqm.; Mid Unit lot area at 37 sqm. with Unit features Convertible to one bedroom One comfort room, Living room, Dining room & Kitchen Service area. (Photos: MBCNewman)

Free public WiFi now available at Cebu Baseport Passenger Terminals 1&2

CEBU CITY – Free public WiFi is now available to all passengers for a maximum of two hours daily at Cebu Baseport Passenger Terminals 1 & 2 at Pier 1 as the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) and the Department of Information Communications Technology (DICT) formally activate and launch the Free public WIFI project starting August 16 in its efforts to bring free internet access to more public areas nationwide.

“CPA invested in cabling and installation of WiFi Access Points in public areas within our passenger terminals to be able to provide free internet access to port users. DICT 7 helped us by providing CPA with free data bandwidth making the roll out of free Wi-Fi for port users possible," CPA General Manager Francisco Comendador in a statement during the launching.

The free public WiFi access is a CPA initiative in support to the commitment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of expanding free internet services in public places to enable all Filipinos to connect with families, friends and colleagues virtually from anywhere in the Philippines.

Comendador added that the enhanced internet connectivity in the Baseport area is expected to aid in the exchange of timely and important information to the public.  It is also expected to boost and support CPA’s current efforts on the use of cashless payments.

“We are currently working on establishing reliable online payment systems for Port charges including the collection of our terminal fees.  Despite the setbacks from the pandemic, CPA pushed through with our recovery efforts and Port development programs,” Commendador bared.

Commendador thanked the DICT for the partnership with CPA as they continue the efforts in establishing wireless technologies in the ports to boost network connectivity and opening up new ways to maximize the efficiency in CPA’s operations and ultimately improve port services.

The launching and activation of the Free Public WiFi was attended by CPA General Manager Francisco Comendador and DICT 7 Regional Director Frederick D.C. Amores with other CPA and DICT key officials. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Converge sustains broadband subscriber growth

CEBU CITY— Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (Converge) sustained the growth in its residential subscriber base while maintaining robust growth for its enterprise business, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to achieve an eight percent revenue growth to P17.4 billion in the first half of the year.

Total net subscriber additions for residential customers reached 92,000 during the first six months, growing by five percent compared to the same period last year. For the second quarter alone, there were 49,000 residential net additions. 

The prepaid fiber internet subscribers reached more than 54,000 as of end-June, nearly doubling compared to end-March 2023 level. This brings the total residential subscriber base of Converge to 1.97 million.

“Converge continues to reap impressive results in our effort to bolster the availability and affordability of our fiber internet solutions. We anticipate more opportunities to grow our subscriber base as we innovate products to cater to the demand from specific socioeconomic segments.  This is evident in the second quarter subscriber growth - with the prepaid market gaining significant traction,” Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy said. 

The fiber broadband provider recently introduced its prepaid fiber offering Surf2Sawa to serve households looking for more affordable connectivity, providing flexible top-up options from as low as P50 per day to P700 for 30-day unlimited connectivity. This is good for six devices with an average speed of 25 Mbps.

Converge also introduced a more affordable postpaid broadband called Bida Fiber which was tailored for budget conscious households with a more consistent income. Priced at P888 per month, subscribers can connect up to six devices with an average speed of 35 Mbps, and experience quality and unlimited connection. 

“The market for Surf2Sawa prepaid fiber internet and Bida Fiber represents around 70% of the total population, representing vast opportunities for us and we are in the best position in the industry to take advantage of this. This opens another blue ocean for Converge,” Uy added. 

Converge SEVP and COO Jesus Romero said that having Bida Fiber and Surf2Sawa arms Converge with a full portfolio of products that can cater to almost all economic class households. “The targets for these products are value-conscious customers who are not yet connected by fiber broadband but likely to be using mobile or fixed wireless connectivity at home which can be burdensome,” Romero added.

The goal with the full product portfolio is to ensure that all subscribers are connected with the most appropriate plan that they can afford in the long-term, noted Converge President and Co-Founder Grace Uy.

Meanwhile, Converge Business continued to deliver outstanding growth in 1H2023 across all segments. The SME segment continued to lead growth with year-on-year (YoY) revenues increasing by 41.5 percent followed by the wholesale segment increasing by 28.6 percent in the same period. Revenues from large enterprise customers, making up the largest sub-segment, grew by 18.5 percent Year on Year (YoY). 

Net income after tax climbed to P 4.3 billion in the first six months of the year from P3.95 billion in the first half of 2022, representing a net income margin of 24.7 percent.   Converge also increased its EBITDA (earnings before interests, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) by 9.5 percent to P10.1 billion in the January to June period, thereby improving its consolidated EBITDA margin to 57.9 percent. 

Meanwhile, Converge remains industry-leading in terms of latest available reports on Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) which improved to 15.4% as of end-June with capital expenditures mostly attributable to the 800,000 new fiber ports deployed. This industry-leading performance is a result of the Company’s disciplined approach in deploying capital to expand its fiber network and improve its overall services.

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