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Author: WILMAR NICOLAS DULDULAO

Robinsons Bank wins PH ‘Fastest Growing Commercial Bank’ for the 2nd time

Robinsons Bank once again wins as the “Fastest Growing Commercial Bank— Philippines 2020” in 6th Global Business Outlook Awards, securing a back-to-back win of a highly-coveted recognition.

Geared towards creating a more significant presence in the banking industry, RBank has maintained a sound financial performance since the rollout of Roadmap 2020 in 2015 when President Elfren Antonio S. Sarte took over the bank’s leadership.

RBank continues to make waves in the industry as the Bank’s profitability continues to be on the uptrend.

In 2019, RBank’s revenues grew by 28% from its 2018 performance, registering a total of Php 8.1 billion, driven by a 17% expansion in its gross loan portfolio. RBank’s total net income in 2019 rose to Php 719.4M, marking a 127% increase.

The 6th Global Business Outlook Awards aims to recognize the excellence shown by various companies from all around the world in both the private and public sectors, highlighting the innovation, creativity, and exceptional performance that they have shown.

SEE: Robinsons Bank wins Fastest Growing Commercial Bank – Philippines 2020

Expanding products and increasing visibility

Early last year, RBank launched the IPONsurance®, an interest-bearing deposit account that comes with free life insurance. Its coverage extends up to four times the average daily balance (ADB). It is designed to provide Filipinos with better choices and a more comfortable and more affordable path towards a financially secure future.

Additionally, RBank also launched a co-branded product with Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. (RRHI), the Robinsons Cashback Card. The Robinsons Cashback Card lets clients enjoy a shopping experience that’s more rewarding as they earn up to 3% cashback when they shop in RRHI affiliated stores, and up to 1% cashback on non-affiliated merchants.

RBank Sign Up – an irresistible convenience

Get ready to have your bank account in just minutes!

Boasting an all-digital process of opening an account, RBank Sign Up requires only one (1) government-issued ID, uses facial recognition and real-time ID detection for a hassle-free experience. Clients can also get their account details in minutes after completing the account opening process.

All these done without ever having to visit a branch.

RBank Digital – online banking

Robinsons Bank is continuously enhancing “RBank Digital” — its online banking platform — to ensure a convenient home-banking experience for users. Aside from the regular transactions that online banking can do, such as fund transfers, balance inquiry, transaction history, bills payment, and more.

With the new upgrades in its online banking feature, users can now view their credit card transactions in real-time, and soon be able to transfer funds through a QR code and even enjoy the QR – a “QuickR way” to pay in participating stores online.

Embracing an award-winning year

Robinsons Bank gained (8) awards for 2019 at both the international and local levels.

The Bank was recognized for its exemplary performance as a commercial bank, earning the titles “Best Commercial Bank in the Philippines 2019” from the International Banker and “Fastest Growing Commercial Bank—Philippines 2019” as awarded by the Global Business Outlook (GBO).

Additionally, in 2019, the Simple Savings Deposit Account was awarded as the Most Innovative Banking Product by the GBO and the Most Financially Inclusive Program by the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines. The Robinsons Bank DOS Mastercard was also named as the Most Innovative Credit Card product by the GBO. RBank was also recognized by Visa to have the Highest Number of Contactless Transactions – Acquiring in 2019.

As January 2020 rolled in, the Robinsons Bank Treasury team received the “2019 Project of the Year” award for its Treasury IT Solutions Optics project. The award was given by Finastra, the third largest FinTech company in the world. Lastly, in February, Robinsons Bank’s Annual Report 2018 won a Silver Anvil in the 55th Anvil Awards.

With RBank, the future is bright

For two consecutive years, Robinsons Bank was awarded the “Fastest Growing Commercial Bank – Philippines 2020” at the 6th Global Business Outlook Awards confirming the aggressive rise of RBank amidst industry challenges.

More so, it projects the trust and confidence of its depositors and investors in the bank and its commitment to service excellence.

Even with the challenges posed by the “new normal”, RBank remains committed to its customers with the continued enhancement of its products and services, embracing digitalization even more, in order to respond with agility and swiftness to the changing needs of the customers in the midst of the challenges.

As RBank chairman, Lance Gokongwei puts it, “We will navigate through these uncertain times and find new ways to deepen our relationship with you by providing services that will help strengthen your financial position”.

Putting customers at the heart of every product, RBank continues to provide financial solutions that empower every Filipino to dream big for their future. At Robinsons Bank, we bring banking closer to you while bringing you closer to your dreams.

Robinsons Bank is the financial services arm of the JG Summit Group of Companies, one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines. It currently ranks 18th among universal and commercial banks in the country, with assets amounting to Php 131.088 Bn as of December 2019.

For inquiries and concerns, you may reach Robinsons Bank through its Customer Care Center at (02) 8637-CARE (2273) or domestic toll-free 1-800-10-637-CARE (2273); or visit its website at www.robinsonsbank.com.ph. Like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/robinsonsbank/ and follow them on Twitter @RBankCorp for the latest promo.

REFERENCE:

Catherine Llanes

Media Relations Manager

T. +63 2-332-10-31 loc. 103

M2COMMS | M2SOCIAL | M2LIVE | PRO

June 15, 2020
vivo V19 handsets, LANY ‘ignite the night’ in all-digital launch

vivo has finally unveiled the V19 and V19 Neo via its first-ever, all-digital local launch “Ignite the Night”, giving fans and smartphone enthusiasts a look at how using its latest technology and handsets can lead to new night experiences.

The online event, which was livestreamed on vivo’s Facebook page, also set the stage for the introduction of the brand’s latest endorsers, the globally-successful pop band LANY whose music and style embody the ‘ignite the night’ attribute of the V19 series flagship smartphones.

Audiences who tuned in to the online event were treated to an exclusive premiere of LANY’s online commercial which showed band members Paul Jason Klein, Charles Leslie “Les” Priest, and Jake Clifford Goss taking a selfie using the vivo V19 series and encouraging their fans to “ignite your night”.

Taking cue from LANY’s challenge, the brand gave away three (3) brand-new V19 Neo smartphones to lucky fans who joined an online contest during the launch event. The audience also participated in a digital live polling which showed what they like most about the event and the V19 handsets.

Among the most-liked features of the flagship smartphones are its 48MP AI quad camera and 32MP front camera, which along with the super night selfie and super night photography features, lets users ignite and celebrate their nighttime passions.

“In today’s new normal, the V19 series represents a bold step into a new direction for vivo as we focus on empowering the younger market with not just technology-laden smartphones that would enhance their lifestyles, but also a means for them to pursue, enjoy, and share their passions and endeavors, especially at night,” noted Charisma Buan, vivo PR team lead.

The V19 and V19 Neo also offers a new viewing experience courtesy of a 6.44-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ Ultra O Screen which also houses the in-display front camera and fingerprint scanning technology.

During the event, tech gurus and bloggers also shared which among the smartphone features were most impressive as they talked about the technical functions and lifestyle-driven features of the V19 series.

The vivo V19 smartphones have a glossy finished body in Gleam Black and Sleek Silver night-time colorways. The V19 Neo retails for P17,999.

Interested buyers can already pre-order the vivo V19 Neo thru Home Credit to avail of a 0% interest for 6 months and 9 months, or via credit card to get 0% interest for 6 months and 12 months.

The vivo V19 series smartphones will soon be available at all vivo concept stores, kiosks and multi-brand stores nationwide.

About vivo

vivo is a leading global technology company that is product-driven with core businesses including smart terminals and intelligent services. vivo is committed to connecting users to the digital world by designing exciting and trendsetting smart mobile products and services which integrate technology and fashion in unique and creative ways. Adhering to its core values, which include “Benfen”, “innovation” and “consumer orientation”, vivo has implemented a sustainable development strategy to achieve its vision of becoming a leading, long-lasting, world-class enterprise.

vivo’s headquarters is located in Dongguan, China, with 9 R&D centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo and San Diego. These centers focus on the development of cutting-edge consumer technologies including 5G, artificial intelligence, photography, design and other emerging fields. vivo has also set up five production hubs across China, South Asia and Southeast Asia, which manufacture over 200 million smartphones every year. As of 2019, vivo has developed its sales network across more than 30 countries and regions, attracting more than 300 million active users worldwide.

REFERENCE:

Abbey Malvar

Senior Media Relations Officer

Strategic works, Inc.

+639. 17.708.8346

abbey.malvar@stratworks.ph

2nd Floor Zaragoza Building, 102 Gamboa Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City PH

June 13, 2020
It’s better at home with Samsung’s exciting new offers

These days, more and more people are starting to realize the value of improving one’s home. During this stay-at-home period, Samsung Philippines understands the need for families to experience better entertainment and connectivity, and is offering new and exciting promos on its Smart TVs and Soundbars this month.

Families may now upgrade to a bigger-sized Smart TV for a more enjoyable viewing and gaming experience. Customers can get a Samsung 49” Smart TV (49J5250) for only P 18,999, or a 43” UHD Smart TV for just P 19,999 through Samsung authorized dealer shops nationwide and their online stores. These offers are only available until June 30, 2020.

All Samsung Smart TVs, including QLED and UHD TVs, feature the Samsung Smart Hub, which provides access to all content sources, from streaming entertainment sites such as Netflix, to social media apps, web browser, gaming consoles, live TV, and set-top box in one place.

The home entertainment experience can be further upgraded with cinema-quality sound from Samsung Soundbars, which can be connected to the TV, or used to stream music by connecting the phone via Bluetooth. Both the TV and soundbar can be operated by using the same Samsung One remote. Samsung Soundbars come with cash or straight credit card discounts of over 25 percent on select models.

There is no better time for families to have better immersive entertainment at home, and no other brand can deliver this than Samsung, the world’s no. 1 TV for 14 straight years.

Visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/offer/ to see all promos on TV models available nationwide.

Promo offers for Samsung TVs and Soundbars featured here are in accordance with DTI Permit numbers FTEB-100291 and FTEB-06122, Series of 2020.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

For questions or clarifications, you may reach out to:

Marlene Cinco                                            Alex Pastor

Samsung Philippines                                Stratworks, Inc.

+632 214 7777                                            63 920 968 0241

m.cinco@samsung.com                           alex.pastor@stratworks.ph

REFERENCE:

JEAN RICELLE A. AQUINO

Sr. Media Relations Officer

StratWorks, Inc.

0927 027 8975

June 11, 2020
Celebrate Independence Day with Shopee with these great deals from Vivo phones

The courageous countrymen of the nation had sacrificed their lives with their innovative minds, communications, skills and intelligence in fighting the freedom against foreign invaders until had finally gained the victory of freedom (Independence Day) in this beautiful land, the “Pearl of the Orient Seas”.

Everyone of us has the freedom to celebrate the Independence Day and so, the freedom to choose our own innovative communication technology like vivo phones for every budget as good vibes from Shopee and vivo to its loyal and prospective customers in the community.

Through Shopee, there are great deals from vivo phones but for now let’s take a look the advantages and features of vivo Y15, an affordable smart phone that must buy and who considers an innovative gadget needed in every daily activities. It has a Rear Camera with Super Wide Angle Smart Phone that can capture wide moments and scenes intended for freestyle of art of photography and videography.

vivo Y15 Features and Description:

Brand: Vivo
Model: Y15 4GB

Brand: Vivo
Model: Y15 4GB

Product Description

DISPLAY
• Size: 6.35″
• Resolution: 720 × 1544 (HD+)
• Type: Capacitive multi-touch/Full-incell

CAMERA
• Camera : Front 16MP, Rear 13MP+8MP+2MP
• Aperture: Front f/2.0 (16MP), Rear f/2.2 (13MP) + f/2.2 (8MP) + f/2.4 (2MP)
• Flash: Rear flash
• Scene Modes: PPT, Professional, PDAF, Palm Capture, Voice Control, Time-Lapse, Slow, Live Photos, HDR, Portrait Mode, Panorama, Portrait Bokeh(single front camera), Watermark, AI Face Beauty, Camera Filter, Super Wide-Angle Camera

NETWORK
• TYPE: Dual SIM and Dual Standby

BASIC
• Processor: MT6762
• RAM: 4GB
• Storage: 64GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Color: Aqua Blue, Burgundy Red
• Operating System: Funtouch OS 9（based on Android 9.0)

BODY
• Dimensions: 159.43 × 76.77 × 8.92mm
• Weight: 190.5g

MEDIA
• Audio: WAV, MP3, MP2, AMR-NB, AMR-WB, MIDI, Vorbis, APE, FLAC, ogg
• Video: MP4, 3GP, AVI, TS, MKV, FLV
• Picture: Support JPEG And Other Formats

CONNECTIVITY
• Wi-Fi: 2.4G+5G Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
• USB: USB 2.0
• GPS: Supported
• OTG: Supported
• FM: Supported

LOCATION
• Location: GPS, BeiDou, GLONASS, Galileo

SENSORS
• Accelerometer
• Supported
• Ambient Light Sensor
• Supported
• Proximity Sensor
• Supported
• E-compass
• Supported
• Fingerprint
• Supported
• Gyroscope
• Virtual Gyroscope

IN THE BOX
• Y15
• Documentation
• microUSB to USB Cable
• USB Power Adapter
• SIM Ejector
• Protective Case
• Protective Film (applied)

At Shopee , you can buy great deals of vivo smartphones independently including vivo Y15 and other products. It’s not surprise that group of people are using vivo Y15 as part of their lifestyle living as necessity, either for personal or business matters in the community.

Consider to buy a Versatile, Innovative, Vast & Original (vivo) Y15 as your investment or as a gift to your friends or love ones.

Please don’t forget to download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

June 11, 2020
vivo V19 Neo all-digital launch highlights features, global endorsers that ‘ignite the night’

vivo is excited to officially unveil its V19 Neo to the Philippine market, not only to let smartphone enthusiasts experience its reported 5-camera design, with features that supposedly enable users to ‘ignite the night’, but also to welcome the brand’s newest global endorsers.

The leading global technology company will introduce the V19 Neo via the brand’s first-ever, all-digital local launch livestreamed on June 13, 5:30PM on its Facebook page.

Aside from its 48MP AI quad camera and 32MP front camera, the latest flagship smartphone in the V series lets users celebrate their nighttime passions with its super night selfie and super night photography features.

The online event will also set the stage for the not-to-be-missed introduction of vivo’s latest brand ambassadors—a globally-successful Indie pop band whose attitude truly personify the ‘ignite the night’ attribute of V19 Neo.

The V19 Neo also offers a new viewing experience courtesy of a Super AMOLED Ultra O Screen which also houses the in-display front camera and fingerprint scanning technology. It also has an 8GB RAM + 128GB ROM, and runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 675 AIE processor powered by a dual-engine fast charging 4500mAh battery.

vivo is also expected to fire up nighttime passions among the audience as it gives away three (3) V19 handsets to lucky viewers who will join an online contest. The audience can also take part in a digital live polling that will show what they like most about the event and the V19 Neo.

During the event, tech gurus and bloggers will also weigh in on discussions about the technical functions and lifestyle-driven features of the V19 Neo which comes in a glossy finished body in Admiral Blue and Crystal White colorways.

So, don’t forget to tune in to vivo’s FB page at https://www.facebook.com/vivo.philippines/ on June 13, at 5:30PM, for one of the industry’s most exciting product launches.

About vivo

vivo is a leading global technology company that is product-driven with core businesses including smart terminals and intelligent services. vivo is committed to connecting users to the digital world by designing exciting and trendsetting smart mobile products and services which integrate technology and fashion in unique and creative ways. Adhering to its core values, which include “Benfen”, “innovation” and “consumer orientation”, vivo has implemented a sustainable development strategy to achieve its vision of becoming a leading, long-lasting, world-class enterprise.

vivo’s headquarters is located in Dongguan, China, with 9 R&D centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo and San Diego. These centers focus on the development of cutting-edge consumer technologies including 5G, artificial intelligence, photography, design and other emerging fields. vivo has also set up five production hubs across China, South Asia and Southeast Asia, which manufacture over 200 million smartphones every year. As of 2019, vivo has developed its sales network across more than 30 countries and regions, attracting more than 300 million active users worldwide.

REFERENCE:

Abbey Malvar

Senior Media Relations Officer

Strategic works, Inc.

+639. 17.708.8346

abbey.malvar@stratworks.ph

2nd Floor Zaragoza Building, 102 Gamboa Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City PH

June 10, 2020
Look: Matteo Guidicelli stays positive amid quarantine life

If there is one trait that Filipinos are known for, then that is our ability to stay positive regardless of the circumstances. Whether it be braving a typhoon or taking long, stressful hours of travel due to traffic congestion, we can always find a reason to smile and ways to get by with any challenge.

Amid the current global health crisis, however, it may, arguably, seem way harder for some to remain optimistic, especially as it presents new challenges that bring massive changes in the way we live.

This pandemic has been overwhelming hospitals, restricting access to public spaces, disrupting industries, bringing mental health challenges, and forcing people to stay indoors—all these lead to what they refer to as the “new normal.”

With these new challenges and amid uncertainties, how can we still choose to have a positive mindset?

Adapting to the Changes

For Matteo Guidicelli, an actor, model, member of the armed forces, businessman, and triathlete, maintaining a positive attitude is crucial to adapt quickly to the current situation.

“Sometimes, it may seem depressing, especially now that everything is different. Our lifestyle, somehow, changed and, even our livelihood is affected. Some even lost their jobs,” said Guidicelli on “Santé Engage,” a podcast with Joey Marcelo, CEO of Santé and Paul Caluag, Santé’s chief network development officer.

Marcelo could not agree more. He said that we need to think of ways to become resilient. “Santé is blessed that we remain resilient. The Santé Family still thrives amid the adversity as we can still supply to our business owners and reach out to people who need our health and wellness products.”

Creating Routine and Staying Healthy

Staying healthy and strong is also crucial. Guidicelli shared that creating and maintaining a routine can help in doing the activities they need to do every day.

“Just because we are staying at home, it does not mean we do not have anything to do. There are so many more chores, work, and more piling up. By maintaining a routine, it will be easier to go about all these activities,” said Guidicelli.

“I have set up a mini-gym, where I do some biking every morning when I wake up. In the afternoon, I run and cook for my wife. I just try to make everything routine-based and alive,” he added.

Guidecelli also noted that there are ways to stay fit despite not having the proper workout equipment at home. There are resources or videos online where anyone can learn some simple workouts.

Marcelo, on the other hand, also aims to stay fit and healthy as he works out almost every day. He also joins Sante Fit Fam every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to work out with the entire Santé Family.

Coping with the “New Normal”

Coping up with the new normal should also be part of everyone’s priority. For instance, Caluag said that Santé is preparing new measures to ensure physical distancing practices in their working environments. They also coined a better term for it as they refer to it as “better normal.”

“We must maximize opportunities to come up with better ways to operate and beat the challenges that we will face while helping our business partners to work better and thrive. That is why we are bringing our training, seminars, and conferences online,” said Caluag.

As for Guidicelli, he considers using his influence to help those in need. Recently, he, together with some organizations, initiated an online benefit show called “One Voice PH,” which raised more than PHP10 Million and helped distribute goods to places where it is needed the most.

“When people ask, ‘how am I going to help when I can’t go outside?’ I remind them that our doctors and front liners have been begging for us to stay at home, as much as possible, to help stop the spread of the virus,” he said.

Be a Channel of Blessings

Another way of helping to ease the situation is to spread positivity by sharing your blessings. “I believe that during a crisis like this, the resources of the world is for everybody. So, it is the time for everyone to share what they can to support the community,” Marcelo said.

Santé also creates programs to give back. Marcelo also encourages all Santé business owners and partners to find ways to support their communities and become a channel of blessings to others.

The company also aims to continue inspiring people to live more and do more, just like Matteo Guidicelli, through its premier organic health and wellness products and services.

To learn more about Santé, visit its website at santebarley.com.

REFERENCE:

Alvin Marayan 0998 9613729

PRC, Inc.

June 9, 2020
Shopee partners with CJ ENM to bring KCON online, featuring Kpop icons GFRIEND, (G)I-DLE, ITZY, MONSTA X, Stray Kids, and more
Shopee Live Kpop Fest kicks off on June 10, with an exclusive free screening of KCON:TACT 2020 Summer from June 20-26.

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, partners Asia’s leading entertainment and lifestyle company CJ ENM to bring KCON, the world’s largest Korean culture festival, online for the first time. KCON is a highly-anticipated annual event for Kpop fans across the globe, entering its ninth year of bringing the ultimate Korean culture fan experience worldwide including the US, Japan, and Thailand. It will go online for the first time in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, with Shopee as the official live stream partner for the KCON:TACT 2020 Summer concert. This partnership will see Shopee air live performances, concerts, and more from KCON:TACT 2020 Summer for free to users on Shopee Live.

KCON:TACT 2020 Summer will be the highlight of Shopee Live Kpop Fest, which will kick off on June 10. Launched in collaboration with CJ ENM, the festival aims to meet the growing demand for online entertainment amid social distancing measures in the region. Popular Kpop groups including GFRIEND, (G)I-DLE, ITZY, MONSTA X, and Stray Kids will also make special appearances on Shopee Live, while Shopee users can enjoy daily Kpop themed streams and challenges.

Agatha Soh, Head of Regional Marketing at Shopee said, “Shopee is proud to be the exclusive partner of CJ ENM to stream KCON:TACT 2020 Summer to fans in Southeast Asia and Taiwan for the first time, as part of Shopee Live Kpop Fest. This partnership builds on our efforts to connect people through entertainment and shared experiences, and comes after a series of successful collaborations with Kpop stars. Shopee Live Kpop Fest and KCON:TACT 2020 Summer reflect our commitment to meet evolving needs, as people around the world stay home and turn to online entertainment. We look forward to more exciting collaborations with CJ ENM in the future.”

Don Kim, General Manager of Global Festival at CJ ENM said, “KCON is the largest festival of Korean culture in the world. Bringing the festival online, we have lined up an amazing experience for KCON:TACT 2020 Summer including interactive events with state-of-the-art technology, a star-studded concert lineup, and more. We are excited to go above and beyond what fans have experienced so far, and we are excited to partner with Shopee for fans in Southeast Asia and Taiwan to join the festival.”

From June 10 to 26, avid Kpop fans can look forward to a wide range of live streams and challenges daily at Shopee Live Kpop Fest, including:
- Exclusive appearances by popular Kpop idols, WJSN and Weki Meki on Shopee Live at 8PM (GMT +8) on June 10 and 15 respectively. Users can enjoy first-hand access to the groups with exciting performances, interviews, games, and more in each stream.
- Daily Kpop themed challenges for fans to show off their knowledge, recreate iconic Kpop looks, and more. The best fans stand to win attractive prizes such as vouchers and signed merchandise from their favorite idols.
Shopee will mark the finale of Shopee Live Kpop Fest by screening KCON:TACT 2020 Summer on Shopee Live from 20 to 26 June. Shopee users and Kpop fans can look forward to seven consecutive days of non-stop entertainment, including live concerts and interviews by some of the biggest Kpop stars in the world, including GFRIEND, (G)I-DLE, ITZY, MONSTA X, and Stray Kids.

Stay tuned for more updates on KCON:TACT 2020 Summer and Shopee Live Kpop Fest at http://shopee.ph/m/live-kpop-fest

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan. It was launched in 7 markets in 2015 to connect consumers, sellers, and businesses in the region.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

REFERENCE:

Catherine Llanes

Media Relations Manager

T. +63 2-332-10-31 loc. 103

M2COMMS | M2SOCIAL | M2LIVE | PR
June 8, 2020
GBF & URC face shields get seal of approval from hospitals

The Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) and Universal Robina Corporation (URC) completed the distribution of over 100,000 reusable face shields to 33 hospitals, as the country ramped up its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Health workers in the frontlines gave a thumbs-up to these face shields.

“Given the variety of face shields that we got from our warehouse, these were the most user-friendly,” said laboratory manager Ma. Lourdes Gatbonton, of The Medical City.

“They provide the right amount of distance between the user’s face and the shield. The person using it can breathe much better, unlike with other face shields,” said Gatbonton. “They also do not moisten or have that clouding effect so it allows us to see better and work around the laboratory without trouble.”

According to Dr Joseph Angelo Kiat of the surgery department at the Veterans Memorial Medical Center, the clearer acetates also help with visibility.

“They are lightweight and sturdy. The face shields are also easy to clean for reuse,” said Dr. Kiat. “These face shields are already distributed to our hospital employees including our janitors, orderly, and food servers assigned to our COVID wing and wards.”

URC, one of the Philippines’ largest food firms, repurposed parts of its production line to manufacture tens of thousands of reusable face shields badly needed by frontline health workers battling Covid-19.

David Lim, URC’s senior vice president for quality, engineering, sustainability & technical services, designed the URC face shield. “We decided to come up with a face shield design that can both be easily manufactured and is reusable,” he said.

URC’s face shields are made from just three basic materials, making mass production easier: a polypropylene strip that is 14mm thick and about a meter long; an 8-by-13-inch PET sheet; and some staples.

The company buys the PET sheets and staples, but it produces the PP strips in its facility in Calamba, Laguna.

Because it does not have foams that absorb a lot of microbes, URC’s face shields can be dipped in a sterilizing solution and reused. Dr Maria Julieta Germar, who works at the Philippine General Hospital’s obstetrics and gynecology department, said this makes the face shields easier to disinfect than other types.

GBF executive director Grace Colet related that the innovative solution of the URC engineers allowed GBF to respond fast to the hospitals’ needs for quality face shields.

“Since these were manufactured locally and efficiently at URC’s repurposed plant line, we were able to secure face shields at a more affordable cost which allowed GBF to distribute to more hospitals in need,” Colet said.

GBF distributed the face shields to, among others, the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, Philippine General Hospital, Lung Center of the Philippines, Philippine Heart Center, San Lazaro Hospital, Rizal Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, The Medical City and Chinese General Hospital.

Colet said hospitals were picked based on the number of Covid-19 cases they were handling and their public call for donation.

URC is one of the largest food and beverage manufacturing companies in the country, producing well-loved Pinoy brands like C2, Great Taste, Piattos, Nova, Cream-O and Cloud 9, among others. From the same parent company, GBF is a foundation dedicated to contributing to the country’s progress by helping educate its workforce in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

REFERENCE:

JEAN RICELLE A. AQUINO

Sr. Media Relations Officer

StratWorks, Inc.

0927 027 8975

June 5, 2020