Just in time for Nutrition Month, SM Supermalls partnered with Mesa ni Misis to celebrate the healthiest SuperMoms Meetup at the SM Megamall Event Atrium on July 22, Saturday.
SuperMoms gathered once again for the biggest and grandest super momma convention, which also marked the launch of Juana’s Table, the newest recipe book by Mesa ni Misis’ Juana Manahan Yupangco.
“We SuperMoms hold the power to shape the future of our children’s health. By embracing a plant-based diet and introducing it to our families, we can ensure that our little ones grow up strong, vibrant, and armed with the necessary tools to lead a healthy and fulfilled life,” said Grace Magno, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Marketing.
SM Supermalls and Mesa ni Misis, through the recipe book, aimed to educate moms on the importance of healthy and sustainable eating. Written by Yupangco herself, who is a food security champion and advocate for local produce and farmers, the book is filled with healthy and affordable meal options that moms can easily create in their kitchen using the freshest produce found at the SM Sunday Market.
During the event, participants were treated to a cooking demo by Yupangco, who was then joined by celebrities and certified SuperMoms, Dimples Romana and Patti Grandidge Herrera who whipped up a veggie gimbap using fresh, local ingredients. They showcased how easily one can create a delicious and healthy meal for the whole family using one of the many recipes found in the book. Also, moms got the chance to discover how to practice sustainability in the household through cooking.
The meetup featured on-ground activities for moms such as the SuperMoms Club Photo wall where SuperMoms got to take photos with their goodie bags and a raffle draw where lucky SuperMoms won special prizes and other awesome surprises from partners and sponsors.
Started in 2018, SM Supermalls’ SuperMoms Club is the Philippines’ largest mommy community on Facebook. Its on-ground event, the SuperMoms Meetup, has become an avenue to further build a stronger community of inspiring women and super mommas who uplift, support, and encourage each other.
“This meetup was designed with your well-being in mind. We want to make you feel valued and cared for, and at the same time, we want to give you a voice to be heard at home, in the workplace, and your community. Your SM Supermalls family will always be here for you, listening to you and understanding your needs, and helping you throughout your motherhood journey,” said Juana Manahan Yupangco.
The healthiest SuperMoms Club meetup in the metro was supported by SM Markets, SM Store, Fully Booked, Viu, NutriAsia, UnMeat, Téviant, Skin Poem, Designer Blooms, and Blims Furniture.
Never miss out on the latest SuperMoms gatherings at SM Supermalls! To know more about the SuperMoms Club, join the Facebook community for moms, by moms via www.facebook.com/groups/SMSuperMomsClub.
City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office awarded SM City San Pablo guard SG Hassan Pasco a plaque of recognition for his selflessness and courageous efforts in saving a life during a critical and life-threatening situation on June 25, 2023.
While conducting his regular rounds, SG Pasco noticed a 74-year-old customer experiencing difficulty breathing due to something stuck in his throat. Fortunately, as a trained guard in first aid rescue techniques, he performed the Heimlich maneuver (Abdominal Thrusts) right away, and that saved the customer.
SG Pasco is trained in first aid rescue techniques and regularly undergoes refresher courses with the assistance of a Certified First Aid Trainer from the Philippine Red Cross. These training sessions are conducted every morning before the mall opens.
CDRRMO Management Council in San Pablo, Laguna said that his quick thinking, decisive action, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the preservation of human life have made a remarkable impact on the community. SG Pasco also received P10,000 from the City Administration Office.
photo caption:
SG Hassan receives a plaque of recognition from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office officials: (L to R) Ralph Kristian Eustaquio, Research and Planning Division Head, Vanessa T. Reyes, CGADH-I, CDRRMO , Rolly Asaula Administrative Division Head and John Edward Babani Administration and Training Division Head. With them is SM City San Pablo CRS Manager Ramon Domingo (3rd from right)
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, has been recognized by three international award-giving bodies for excellence in transparent Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report entitled “Together, We Rise”.
SM published its sustainability reports in 2013 even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) mandated sustainability reporting in the Philippines. SM Prime further promotes transparency and accountability by informing investors and stakeholders of its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making processes, and competitive positioning value in the sector.
“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people,” SM Prime President Mr. Jeffrey Lim said.
At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).
Also, in the regional scene, the company won a Silver Rank in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT) 2022, a sustainability report ranking by the National Center for Sustainability Reporting (NCSR). ASRRAT’s rating system employs criteria based on GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosures transparency, and alignment with and support of the UN SDGs, among other factors.
The international recognitions are a testament to SM Prime’s active role in championing sustainability across its operations as it continues to be a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people.
In 1971, the Philippines launched the Community Health Organization Program to classify health services into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. As part of this initiative, barangay health stations were created to ensure that primary healthcare improves the overall health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
Since then, these local health centers have played a crucial role in improving the health outcomes of Filipinos. They have not only provided general healthcare services but also served as agents during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped with the vaccination rollout. Additionally, they continue to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Adequate facilities for improved healthcare
SM Foundation (SMFI) has made it its mission to provide adequate facilities and upgraded equipment to boost health centers as they fulfill their mandate of delivering quality health care, even amid the pandemic.
Pursuing its mission, SMFI and UNIQLO Philippines traveled to the cities of Tuguegarao and Cauayan in Cagayan Valley and upgraded two health facilities serving thousands of Filipinos. Beyond the new infrastructure, health workers see it as a chance to put forth the services they have always drawn from the heart.
In Brgy. District 1, Cauayan, Midwife Tarita Ann Ballasteros has tended to patients from low-income households, who barely have money to spare for the fare going to the facility and to buy medicine. She would then give the best care she can offer to compensate for the limitations of their center.
A resident of Cauayan City, Isabela undergoes a routine checkup in Brgy. District 1 Health Center
“Nakikita ko ang sitwasyon nila na ultimo pamasahe, wala sila. Iniisip ko, wala man lang akong maibigay na gamot sa kanila. Para sa akin, hindi ko man sila lubos na mapagaling, lalabas sila sa facility na magaan ang pakiram dahil sa tinatawag nating TLC (tender loving care),” she said.
Before, they had to use curtains as improvised medical partitions or lock the health center’s door to provide comfort to women seeking reproductive health care or pregnant mothers coming in for prenatal checkups.
“It takes time to prepare and attend to the next patient. Kailangan pa namin takpan ng kumot o ilock ang pinto ng center para magkaroon ng privacy ang mga pasyente. Dahil dito, isa lang ang naaaccommodate namin. Minsan, hindi sila komportable dahil nakikita ng iba yung procedure na ginagawa namin sa kanila,” she said.
Through the upgrade, the Brgy. District 1 Health Center had its own room for maternal and child health services, equipped with necessary medical tools. It was also fitted with a breastfeeding area and a designated space for immunization.
Health workers of Brgy. District 1 Health Center provides free prenatal checkups in the newly renovated health center
The upgrade served as the boost they needed to complement the TLC they have always given their community.
“Malaki ang connection ng renovation ng center sa pagsasaayos ng kalusugan ng aming komunidad. Kaming mga health workers ay mas eager na sa pag-pasok sa trabaho at mas marami na kaming pasyenteng mabibigyan ng serbisyo at matutulungan,” she said.
Through the newly renovated health center, residents of Brgy. District 1 health center enjoy free medical checkups.
“Dahil maganda na at maaliwalas, nakakatulong ito para gumaan ang pakiramdam ng pasyente bago pa man sila gamutin,” she added.
A change for the better
Sharing the same passion for health care service is Corazon Tanguilan, a Barangay Health Worker from Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center in Tuguegarao City.
“As a healthcare provider, hindi po namin gaano iniisip ang kalakihan ng aming health center. Ang importante po ay taos pusong pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa patients namin. Nasa kalooban po namin kung paano namin gagawing maayos pagpapatakbo ng aming operasyon,” she said.
Through their dedication, they strived to accommodate the healthcare needs of their patients despite unfortunate working conditions–from broken tiles, cracked wall paint, and damaged cabinets to limited electric fans for ventilation.
“Sira po ang aming mga tiles. Mahirap po ito dahil baka madulas o mapaano ang aming mga pasyente na kadalasan ay buntis at mga bata. Kaya nilagyan na lang po namin ito ng masking tape para makaiwas sa aksidente,” she recalled.
Due to the center’s layout and space limitations, it became even more difficult for them during the pandemic. With sick children, pregnant women, and TB-DOTs patients, it felt like a weight was pressed against their chests as they hoped to safely accommodate all patients while implementing social distancing.
Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center health workers cater to the general medical needs of its community in the newly renovated health center.
“During immunization days, may mga pregnant mothers na darating for prenatal check-up. Ine-entertain namin sila dahil hindi namin puwedeng pauwiin ulit at pabalikin pa. Mahalaga po ang sapat na espasyo para maisagawa ang infection prevention and control measures. Kaya mainam po ang ginawa ng SM Foundation na pagpapalawak ng health center namin para sa kaligtasan ng patients namin,” she explained.
As their center was rebuilt from the ground up, they felt relief and gained renewed optimism to improve their operations.
Pregnant mothers from Cataggaman Pardo, Tuguegarao City can now get comfortable prenatal care in the newly refurbished health center.
In addition to the installation of new equipment and facilities, complemented by cosmetic improvements such as fresh paint and tiles, the upgraded health centers now include designated rooms for maternal care, medical check-ups, and TB-DOTs treatment. The spacious and well-ventilated lobby provides a warm welcome to the people of Tuguegaraonos, encouraging them to pursue healthy living and become valuable contributors to the growth of their city.
“27 years na po ako sa serbisyo at bihira po ang health center na naka-aircon at well-ventilated. Kaya ngayon pong naisaayos na po ito, tiyak po ako na mas maeengganyo ang constituents ng namin na pumunta sa aming Center,” she said.
The 29th Defense and Sporting Arms Show – the country’s longest-running arms show that promotes responsible gun ownership-open shops for this year’s first edition last Thursday (May 25) at its new home in SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.
The organizer Association of Firearms and Ammunition Dealers Inc., (AFAD) headed by president Alaric Topacio is welcoming all gun enthusiasts, hobbyists, and sportsmen alike to the 5-day event showcasing the latest imported and locally manufactured firearms, ammunition, and accessories.
“With the continuous growth of the defense industry, we made the decision to move to a bigger venue to accommodate our growing list of exhibitors.
So, expect a grandiose display of sporting firearms from both local and international manufacturers and companies,” said Topacio.
Former Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief now Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa attended the 10:00 am opening ceremony. He was joined by several top officials of the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Topacio said aside from the usual activities on renewal of licenses and application for new registered gun owners, participants will have a chance to attend seminars regarding gun safety, self-defense, security, and responsible gun ownership.
“Education and the promotion of responsible gun ownership is AFAD’s main mission. We must continue to promote responsible gun ownership not just to boost the industry but to help further the development in the sports of shooting,” said Topacio.
Catch the 29th Defense and Sporting Arms Show at SMX Convention Center until today, Monday, May 29, 2023.
During the show, Topacio said that aside from helping the buyers in licensing processes participating companies and members are giving huge product discounts.
This year’s event will feature exhibitors such as Stronghand Incorporated, Final Option Trading Corporation, Force Site Inc, Lynx Firearms and Ammunition; Tactical Precision Trading, Armscor Shooting Center, Defensive Armament Resource Corp., Topspot Guns and Ammo, Lordman Leathercraft Guns and Ammo, True Weight, Tactics SOG Industries Inc., Trust Trade, PB Dionisio and Co., Inc., Tactical Corner Inc, Squires Bingham Intl./Armscor, Shooters Guns and Ammo Corp., Nashe Enterprises, Willi Hahn Enterprises, Metro Arms Corporation, R. Espineli Trading, Imperial Guns, Ammo & Accessories, Lock and Load Firearms and Sporting Goods, Pascual Gun Works, Metro Sporting Arms Show, Santiago Fiberforce, Jordan Leather and Gen. Mdse, Magnus Sports Shop, Speededge, Inc, Greyman Elite, Inc., Bonanza/Icarus Shirts, CBX Trading and General Merchandise, among others.
Metro Manila is comprised of 16 cities and 1 municipality – is the economic, political, and cultural capital.
Metro Manila’s forecast of becoming a global power city is challenged by the consequences of rapid urbanization. The UN-Habitat lists the effects of climate change, natural disasters that hamper urban infrastructures and city competitiveness, unequal livability, job creation, and poverty reduction.
Is there a way out of Metro Manila’s challenges? Architect and urban designer Chintan Raveshia, and urban planner and sustainability consultant Tony Chan of Singapore-based Arup emphasize urban development should also consider people’s aspirations, its changing needs and expectations, and the national identity of the residents.
Finding the identity of the city
Raveshia inspires responsible stakeholders to ask themselves first the most fundamental question: “What’s the identity of the city and how do we make its residents proud?”
He quips, “Singapore, a city that is high on everyone’s liveability list, is also working with citizens and grassroots organizations to inculcate a sense of ‘lovability’ for the city. This helps to strengthen the societal bond, increase equity, improve community safety, and exude pride and a feeling of ownership of the city amongst the residents. The balance of liveability, efficiency, and lovability paves the way for the true success of our cities in this climate emergency era”.
For his part, Chan believes that successful sustainable urban development goes hand in hand with the capability to enhance people’s quality of life. “We must develop and harness models of development that have low-carbon targets, which are also of a human scale, thriving and inclusive; models that are also just, secured and enhances the quality of life for all its residents. In addition, we should look at creative ways to increase local citizen participation as well as new technologies or products that can support the overarching vision and development objectives”, says Chan.
Melbourne is considered by many experts as one of the most liveable cities for the past decade.
If Singapore reclaims lands for more affordable housing and increased integrated city developments and Melbourne builds accessible green spaces to promote social interaction, what plans would best fit Metro Manila’s sustainable and livable future while maintaining its identity? Here are five urban development aspirations Filipinos hope for the country’s main political and economic hub.
1. Accessibility across all social classes
While Metro Manila is the Philippines’ major economic driver – accounting for 32% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) – it’s often challenged in sustaining accessible living conditions for residents across all social classes. UK-based The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) ranked Metro Manila 105th out of 139 cities in the Global Liveability Index 2022. The increasing population density in Metro Manila has resulted in some inconveniences in daily conditions like vehicular traffic situations, the least green open spaces, high carbon footprint, inaccessibility to affordable housing, and unequal income opportunities.
Urban planners and developers suggest mixed-use planning in the metropolis and coastal developments because they are crucial to achieving the 15-minute concept. Here, residents across all walks of life are encouraged to live a healthy, affordable, and sustainable lifestyle because residential, commercial, and office spaces are integrated within a single development.
2. Open green spaces for a healthy and sustainable living environment
Despite land scarcity, Singapore manages to be one of the greenest cities in the world with over 400 parks, more than 3,300 hectares of nature reserve, and over 300 kilometers of park connector network.
Studies show that Metro Manila has only 5 square meters of green space available per person, this number is well below the 9 square meters set by the World Health Organization.COVID-19 had the entire world reassess their health conditions, lifestyle practices, and environmental situations. The impact was even more drastic in Metro Manila due to population density, crowded space, and insufficient parks and open areas.
Aside from improving air quality and enhancing biodiversity, green spaces also moderate temperatures during the warm season.
3. Enhancing Human health and wellbeing
Cities with sufficient healthcare facilities, access to health coverage, and infrastructures that enhance well-being and promote a healthy lifestyle, produce prosperous societies.
The way cities are planned, designed, and executed has a crucial impact on how people live as it presents opportunities and effects on their lifestyles and overall well-being. While there is evident progress in Metro Manila’s health sector, rapid urbanization continues to pose risks in communities due to challenges in overcrowded neighborhoods, vehicular emissions, heavy traffic, pollution, and flood-prone areas.
4. Resilient community
Resilience is the capacity of individuals, communities, and systems to adapt, survive, and grow in the face of stress and shocks, and even transform when conditions require it. Relevant dimensions under the City Resilience Index (https://www.cityresilienceindex.org) by the Rockefeller Foundation & Arup, other dimensions include Health & Well Being, Economy & Society, Infrastructure & Environment as well as Leadership & Strategy
As Philippines and Manila grows, we face a dual challenge of adapting to climate change and the need to alter development strategies that are increasingly contributing to global warming. The Philippines is among the top 10 countries in the world most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, according to the Global Climate Risk Index As an archipelago, impacts resulting from climate change are immense. In addition, metro Manila’s safety and resilience are endangered by various natural disasters.
Natural disasters persist every season due to our geographical location.
Well-planned and executed urban designs have the power to build safe and resilient communities in Metro Manila. Infrastructures like proper bike lanes and walkable streets ensure residents’ safety, accessibility, and comfort, whereas science and technology-based solutions that can build flexible structures, multi-use systems, and technologies can help residents adapt and prepare for changing conditions.
5. Global and competitive city
In 2022, Singapore placed 3rd in the World Competitiveness Ranking – the small country out of Asia even placed 1st in 2019 and 2020.
Metro Manila is one of Asia’s premier regions. As the country’s engine growth driver, it has growing investments in infrastructures and multitudes of business investments and developments.
The metropolis’ rising potential can further step up by following global models like Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong which created several integrated cities and coastal developments that ushered in a vibrant economy and paved for a better urban lifestyle. These visions create an avenue to further increase opportunities for jobs, better education, better lifestyle, and bustling economic activities.
These can contribute to the Philippines’ national and local economies by driving tourism and infrastructure development while also creating equitable and inclusive communities. These, in turn, create a wider room of opportunities and, therefore, attracts more talent.
Building inclusive and sustainable growth centers
When all stakeholders are listened to and addressed, communities will be energized when introduced to well-designed, master-planned, and implemented developments. This will result in a lasting impact on Metro Manila’s future and its residents because it fosters more inclusive growth and makes the urban landscape an extension of their home.
When a city embraces its history, celebrates its milestones, innovates and adopts for the future, and most importantly, nurtures its residents and responds to their aspirations – it is a city working toward competitiveness and unlocking future potential.
How about you? What would you aspire your city to be?
SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has partnered with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to further promote the country’s pursuit of sustainable development.
Through a scholarship grant, SM Prime aims to assist select students pursue undergraduate degrees in Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (BSHE) and Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) – courses geared towards sustainability.
The scholarship will be awarded to students from low-income households in Pasay City intended to provide better employment prospects and help reduce poverty and inequality, which are major obstacles to sustainable development.
Collaboration for innovation and sustainability
In an interview, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr. shared his optimism about the partnership, citing the impact of education, especially sustainability-related fields of studies, in social and economic mobility.
“The scholarship will enable more students to pursue their studies in areas related to sustainability such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in education in these areas, we are preparing a new generation of leaders who will have the knowledge and skills to address the complex environmental and social challenges facing our world today,” Dr. Camacho said.
“It will encourage research and development in areas related to sustainability. By providing support for students to pursue advanced studies, we are creating a pipeline of future researchers and innovators who can develop solutions to pressing environmental and social problems,” he added.
Aside from enabling students to pursue their education without financial burden, the UPLB chancellor believes that the scholarship can produce competent leaders capable of solving complex environmental and social challenges, and create a pipeline of innovative researchers.
He further stressed how fostering collaborations and innovation in sustainability between the academic community and the private sector can lead to new environmentally and socially responsible products, technologies, and services that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Ripples of social good
SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo shared that the partnership between SM Prime and UPLB is a testament to the shared commitment of both institutions towards promoting sustainability and creating a better future for the next generation.
By supporting the education of would-be scholars, SM Prime hopes to create ripples of social good within families and communities, ultimately contributing to the development of a more sustainable and equitable society.
“Improving the well-being of its partner communities and investing in people’s growth has long been among SM Prime’s sustainability pillars woven at the core of its business strategies and operations. As such, SM Prime deems it important to create programs that would provide access to quality education for all, and in the long term, create a pool of proactive human resources who can responsibly carry out and balance the economic, social, and environmental aspects of a society’s sustainable development aspirations,” Castillo said.
“SM Prime believes UPLB would be the best partner to support its sustainability initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment while honing new Iskolars ng Bayan leaders committed to knowledge creation and public service,” she also said.
The SM Prime Sustainability Scholarship is open to students from Pasay City, under UPLB’s BSHE and BSF programs with an annual gross family income of not more than PhP150,000.00
For more information, interested applicants may contact the UPLB OSG +63 49 536 3209 or email at osg.uplb@up.edu.ph..
LGUs must prioritize public safety, emergency response, says Mayor.
Morong, Rizal, 24 April 2023 — Citizens of Morong, Rizal will now find it easy to call for help and expect instant response from their local government during disasters and other types of emergencies.
Mayor Sidney B. Soriano, Vice Mayor Jose Fred Feliciano, Jr., and other key municipal officials signed an agreement on April 24, 2023 with Next Generation Advanced 911 (NGA 911) that made Morong the first LGU to use advanced, next-generation digital technology for emergency communication and public safety services.
The second-class municipality with over 70,000 residents has assigned NGA – Philippines, a local subsidiary of NGA, a multinational corporation headquartered in California USA, to provide Morong with complete solutions that will enable the LGU to respond to emergencies, save lives and secure property in the fastest possible time.
Known globally as the innovator of the emergency calling technology, NGA is the leader in Next Generation 911 emergency communications. NGA provides an advanced emergency communications system that can provide faster and more accurate emergency responses to people in need. This system is critical in times of crisis, where time is of the essence, and accurate information can be the difference between life and death.
This technology is used in the United States, and it has proven to be a game-changer in emergency communications. The system uses internet protocol (IP) technology to transmit voice, text, and video messages between callers and emergency responders. It can also provide real-time data on the location and condition of callers, which can help first responders make more informed decisions in emergency situations. This is the only true cloud-based NG 9-1-1 solution operating on the Amazon Web Service (AWS) Cloud platform uses a robust and resilient Internet Protocol (IP) backbone that will replace the decades-old 911 infrastructure and turn emergency communication into Next Generation 911.
The digital-led system will enhance the LGU’s response capabilities with faster reaction time, accurate location tracking, consolidation of communication channels, call routing, collaboration and mapping and thus help save Morong residents’ lives,” said NGA Philippines Country Manager Robert Andrew Llaguno.
“Its IoT (internet of things) capabilities allows interaction beyond regular devices like smart phones, desktops and gadgets. It allows seamless integration with public safety technology and systems like CCTVs, two-way radio, and social media apps to provide front liners with valuable information, resulting to better situational awareness and quicker, more efficient response.”
Llaguno added that the system gathers information and stores everything in an unlimited fully-recorded environment complete with audit trail, dashboards, and logs. The data is secured by NGA 911’s international standards-compliant Next Generation and Cybersecurity capabilities and helps the LGU improve the speed and quality of its response.
Even the hearing-impaired can make efficient use of the system, Llaguno said. A Real Time Text (RTT) feature makes it easy for both callers and call receivers to report incidents, so those in danger need not do voice calls to report a crime, accident or emergency, making them feel safe and more secure in challenging situations.
While Morong, Rizal already has an Operations Center in place, the municipality’s current system will benefit from the advanced technology that will make coordination and response to emergencies at the soonest possible time.
“We are partnering with NGA 911 to equip our public safety officers with a system that will enable them to provide immediate emergency assistance and help us adapt to the ever-changing landscape of public safety. Quick response is valuable because the equivalent of every second can be life or death. Whether the emergency is medical, fire, crime or accident, we need to provide fast and effective response. The NGA 911 Call Handling System will let us respond faster and more efficiently. Finally, our constituents are going to get the peace of mind they deserve,” noted Mayor Soriano.
Mayor Soriano enjoined other LGUs to prioritize public safety and follow suit. “We set an example here today for other municipalities and cities to follow. Let’s prioritize public safety and invest in the future of our communities.”
“The implementation of NG911 technology in the Philippines could significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response systems in the country. We are using Next Generation 911 Technology currently being implemented across the United States. With Mr. Soriano’s leadership and support, we are confident that we can make this a reality and provide better emergency services to the Filipinos.” said Ishka Villacisneros, Chief Financial Officer of NGA in the United States.
At the contract signing, Mr. Llaguno briefed guests on the features and interface of the groundbreaking technology and demonstrated how the system works and delivers on its promise.
Mariveles, Bataan – Riders and bike enthusiasts from Bataan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Manila and other parts of the country, join today’s Ride for Valor, a bike-for-a-cause to raise funds for the maintenance of the Bataan Death March markers and other World War 2 heritage sites. The ride coincides with the commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), also known as the 81st Anniversary of the Fall of Bataan and the start of the Death March.Mike Villa-Real, first vice president for marketing and communications of the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), said the event, organized by PVB in partnership with the Department of National Defense, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Provincial Government of Bataan and Wartime Heritage Guild-Philippines, aims to preserve the legacy of Filipino and American soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy during World War 2.
“The Bataan Death March is a somber reminder of the bravery and selflessness of Filipino veterans during the Second World War. It is an essential part of Philippine history and culture, and the Ride for Valor is an important way of honoring the veterans and preserving their legacy. Plus rider get to learn more about this historic event as they will be be traversing the actual route of the Death March,” he said.The ride is open only to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said the event starts at 2:30 a.m. from the Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan, to Capas National Shrine in Tarlac.The non-competitive bike ride will have four pitstops: Mt. Samat, Balanga Provincial Capitol’s The Bunker, San Fernando Train Station, and Angeles Museum.
Giveaways will be given in selected pitstops. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace, adding there will be a 12-hour cut-off during the event.He noted that the event implements a “No Helmet, No Ride” policy to ensure the safety of the participants. Villa-Real also said a mechanic will be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties, while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders’ progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.The Bataan Death March is one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history, where around 80,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced to march more than 100 kilometers in grueling conditions by Japanese forces in 1942.
Thousands of soldiers survived but many also died due to starvation, dehydration, diseases, and the brutality of Japanese captors. The markers serve as reminders of the tragedy and heroism that occurred during that period.PVB is a private, commercial bank owned by World War 2 veterans and their families. With Its new Charter signed into law, the Bank’s ownership now includes Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees.Ride for Valor 2023 is supported by Without Limits PH, Traqs Philippines, OneLGC, AIR21, Salgado PR, Panahon.TV, and the Integrated Waste Management Inc, Neo Zigma PH, Hotel Sogo, The Oriental Hotel-Bataan, AFAB, Booster C Energy Shot, and Fitbar.
True to its mission of promoting Philippine leisure activities like sports, concerts, beauty pageants and cultural festivals, BingoPlus, the first live-streaming bingo in the Philippines, went to Victorias City, Negros Occidental to support the Kadalag-an Festival last March 17 – 21.
The festival that was instituted in 1999 as a thanksgiving celebration in honor of Our Lady of Victory is a colorful celebration of Victoriahanons’ culture and traditions. Street dancing, merrymaking and the search for the Kadalag-an Queen are the highlights of this festival that also marked its 25th Charter Day this year.
BingoPlus, one of the sponsors of the event, added color to the festival by letting revelers join their fun booth activations and selecting Kyla Rose Romarate as Miss BingoPlus Kadalag-an Queen 2023 who was crowned by Victorias City Mayor Javier Benitez award on Queen Coronation Night,
“This involvement in Kadalag-an is a testament to the fact that BingoPlus is more than just an online entertainment brand, but a brand with a mission to promote Filipino culture and traditions by supporting local festivals, among others. In fact, BingoPlus also supported Victorias City’s 9th Kalamayan Festival last December. That Christmas festival celebrates the bountiful years of the sugar industry that helped sustain the progress of Victorias City,” said Jasper Vicencio, president of AB Leisure Exponent, Inc.
For more updates and info visit www.bingoplus.com and download the BingoPlus App.
Philippine Updates 