DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • City Government of Laoag headed by City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon Conducted an Ocular Inspection at SM City Laoag, the first SM Supermall in Ilocos Norte and the 88th in the SM Prime Portfolio

    City Government of Laoag headed by City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon Conducted an Ocular Inspection at SM City Laoag, the first SM Supermall in Ilocos Norte and the 88th in the SM Prime Portfolio

    SM City Laoag, the first SM Supermall in Ilocos Norte was inspected by the City Government of Laoag, headed by City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon on May 05, 2025, to facilitate the release of its occupancy permit.

    Photo Credit: City Government of Laoag

    City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon was accompanied by various heads and employees of the City Government of Laoag of the ocular inspection at SM City Laoag that will formally open its doors to the public on May 30, 2025, 10 A. M. , Friday, strategically located at Airport Road, Barangay 51-B Nangalisan West, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Region 1 (Ilocos Region), Philippines, 2900.

    SM City Laoag Management Team, Mr. Gian Carlo Quiaoit and Ms. Maria Cristina Sebastian, both Assistant Mall Managers; Mr. Joey Gonzales, Senior Operations Manager; Ms. Allysa Banares, Senior Operations Manager; and Mr. Mat Pamittan, Operations Manager has guided Mayor Keon during the tour ocular inspection of the facilities and stores of SM City Laoag.

    The First SM Supermall in Ilocos Norte, SM City Laoag features a gross floor area of 113,000 square meters. It includes three levels of retail space, a basement, a rooftop parking deck, and an integrated transport terminal—designed to enhance accessibility and convenience for shoppers and commuters alike.

    Expressing his gratitude to SM Prime for their investment in Laoag City, Mayor Keon emphasized the positive impact this development will have on the local economy. He stated that the mall will create employment opportunities for Laoagueños and residents from surrounding areas. Furthermore, the presence of SM City Laoag is anticipated to bolster the tourism sector, attracting shoppers and visitors from the city, the province, and beyond. The mall promises to be a new destination for leisure and enjoyment, offering a variety of amenities.

    During the inspection, the City Mayor were accompanied by City Administrator Atty. Franklin Calumag, Atty. Charito Malicad and staff from the City Tourism Office, Engr. Marishel Batuac and staff from the City Engineering Office, EnP Ruby Ann Bunalade and staff from the City Planning and Development Office, Mrs. Antonette Bareng and her team from the Business Permits and Licensing Division, Engr. Robert Adaya and staff from the Office of the Building Official, Acting City Treasurer Loelyn Acain, Ms. Rowena Estavillo, Sanitary Inspector I, along with other staff from the City Health Office, and the new City Fire Marshall FCInsp Arnel Ratuita with other officers from the BFP Laoag City Fire Station.

    SM City Laoag marks a milestone as the first SM Supermall in Ilocos Norte and the 88th in the SM Prime portfolio.

    The diverse people of the diverse city and beyond are thrilled of the Grand Opening of SM City Laoag is on May 30, 2025.

    REFERENCE: City Government of Laoag

  • 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament: A Day of Golf and Giving

    8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament: A Day of Golf and Giving

    (TAGAYTAY CITY, CAVITE – PHILIPPINES) The lush greens of Tagaytay Highlands recently witnessed a blend of sporting prowess and philanthropic spirit as the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, proudly presented by Isla LPG Corporation (ILC), took center stage.

    CEREMONIAL TEE. Tomoaki Asai, CEO of Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation and Jose Ricardo Delgado, Excom Chairman – Isla Petroleum & Gas Corporation, tees off the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, a day of friendly competition and networking.

    A total of 110 golf enthusiasts who are also partners, customers and stakeholders graced the event. The day began with a hearty breakfast and acquaintances, setting the stage for a day filled with friendly competition and camaraderie.

    From its inception, the Isla Cup Golf Tournament’s objective is to thank its customers and partners for their trust and confidence. The company regard their customers, clients and business partners as key drivers for their success. That is why they build their relationship through the Isla Cup Golf Tournament. The golf tournament is the company’s way of taking care of its customers and valuing its business relationship with a long term perspective.

    “We are very happy that the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament is very successful and we really appreciate the participation of all our customers” said TomoAki Asai, Chief Executive Officer, Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation. “In the past, our annual golf tournament is a means for our customers and partners to have fun and get together. But now, we also enjoin them to be part of our CSR which is Alab Kalinga making it a day of competitive golf with a cause” added Asai.

    THANK YOU FROM ISLA LPG CORPORATION. Jose Ricardo Delgado, Chairman of Isla Group Petroleum and Gas Corporation, greets participants at the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament, expressing his gratitude for their participation and support.

    “We have been organizing the Isla Cup Golf Tournament for eight years as our way of bringing in our customers, partners and stakeholders together for a really fun morning and lunch together” said Jose Ricardo Delgado, Excom Chairman – Isla Petroleum & Gas Corporation (IPG). “It’s also the best way to connect to our customers all in one event and this is also a way for us to show appreciation to them, and for us to treat them for a very good time” added Delgado.

    TEEING OF THE DAY. A great morning of golf and connecting with fellow players and guests at the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament.

    This year’s edition of the Isla Cup Golf Tournament is special as it is aimed at giving back to different communities. During the cup, Isla LPG sold mulligans with the proceeds collected going to Alab Kalinga , the company’s corporate social responsibility arm.

    “The objective of the Isla Cup Golf Tournament is to primarily thank our customers who have been with us all this time and to give them a good time through golf as we make sure that they really feel that we value them as our customers, clients, and business” said Jose Antonio “Banjo” Castillo, Chief Operating Officer, Isla Petroleum and Gas Corporation.

    The success of the 8th Isla Cup Golf Tournament serves as a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together for a common cause. With the unwavering support of ILC and the enthusiastic participation of its customers and business partners, the event is poised to continue its tradition for years to come.

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    ABOUT ISLA LPG CORPORATION

    Isla LPG Corporation (ILC) is a leading LPG supplier in the Philippines, providing LPG for household, commercial and industrial use. The company’s flagship brand, Solane, is one of the most recognizable brands in the country.

    Isla LPG Corp.’s business-to-business aspect involves providing LPG solutions to a wide range of commercial and industrial clients.

    Industrial Fuel Supply:

    · Isla LPG Corp. supplies LPG to industries that use it as a fuel source for various processes, such as:

    • Manufacturing plants
    • Factories
    • Power generation
    • Forklift operation

    Commercial Applications:

    • Businesses in the hospitality and food service sectors:
    • Restaurants
    • Hotels
    • Catering services
    • Malls
    • Food Chains

    Infrastructure and Support:

    • ILC provide the necessary infrastructure and support for businesses to safely and efficiently utilize LPG, including:
    • Bulk storage solutions
    • Installation and maintenance services
    • Technical expertise

    · ILC came into being through the acquisition of Shell’s LPG business in the Philippines. This marked a significant shift in the country’s LPG landscape. This acquisition was completed in two stages, and the corporation was incorporated on July 14, 2011.

    · ILC is primarily focused on the distribution and marketing of LPG, notably under the brand name “Solane.” The company plays a vital role in providing LPG to households and businesses across the Philippines, contributing to the country’s energy needs.

    Isla LPG Corporation is leading the way in collaborating with different industries to promote LPG Fuel conversion as a means to replace traditional fuels with a more efficient, economical and environment-friendly source of energy.

  • Implementation of TOTP Authentication in all PhilHealth Systems

    Implementation of TOTP Authentication in all PhilHealth Systems

    PHILHEALTH has published in the PhilHealth website on March 21, 2025 of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation ADVISORY No. 2025-0008 on the Implementation of Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) Authentication in All PhilHealth Systems to improve security and protect user data across all PhilHealth systems as an added layer of protection.

    TOTP is a two-factor authentication (2FA) mechanism that generates a unique, time sensitive password every 30 seconds. This means users must enter a code from their TOTP app in addition to their usual login credentials.

    A separate a advisory will be issued once this feature has been implemented in the affected system. The advisory was signed by Emmanuel R. Ledesma, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer on February 3, 2025.

    Please refer: https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/advisories/2025/PA2025-0008.pdf of the full text of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation ADVISORY No. 2025-0008.

  • Haier Run for Future Possibilities Returns in 2025 with a Bigger Mission

    Haier Run for Future Possibilities Returns in 2025 with a Bigger Mission

    Haier funs and runners are thrilled of the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 with a Bigger Mission in the diverse community and beyond.

    MANILA, Philippines — Following the resounding success of its inaugural event, Haier Philippines is bringing back the Haier Run for Future Possibilities on May 25, 2025 (Sunday) at Block 20, MOA Complex, Seaside Blvd, Pasay City. Now on its second year, the run continues to blend fitness, fun, and a deeper purpose—supporting access to education for Filipino children.

    The 2025 edition carries forward Haier’s mission to go beyond home innovation and give back to communities. For every step taken by participants, Haier will donate to initiatives aimed at improving learning opportunities for the youth—making each stride truly meaningful.

    Race Details & Registration

    Participants can choose among three race categories:

    • 3K – PHP 900
    • 5K – PHP 1,000
    • 10K – PHP 1,200

    All registered participants will receive a race kit that includes a singlet, RFID race bib, finisher’s medal, and a string bag. Runners in the 10K category will also receive an exclusive finisher’s shirt and bandana.

    Registration is open until May 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM.
    Interested participants may sign up through this official link:
    https://rsrjevents.myruntime.com/…/haier-run-for-future…

    Exciting Prizes for Winners

    Haier will be awarding top finishers in both male and female divisions across all categories with high-value appliances:

    10K Category

    • 1st Place: T-Door Refrigerator
    • 2nd Place: Top Load Washing Machine
    • 3rd Place: Window-Type Air Conditioner

    5K Category

    • 1st Place: 43″ Smart TV

    3K Category

    • 1st Place: Top Load Washing Machine

    These prizes highlight Haier’s core commitment to creating smart, high-quality solutions that elevate everyday life at home.

    A Run with a Cause

    The Haier Run stands out not only for its premium prizes and festive atmosphere but also for its strong social advocacy. By tying every runner’s step to a greater cause, the event becomes more than just a physical challenge—it becomes a platform for meaningful change.

    As Haier continues to champion innovation that cares, the Haier Run for Future Possibilities 2025 invites individuals and families to be part of a purposeful movement. Whether you’re a competitive runner or a casual participant, your presence helps build a better, brighter future for the next generation.

    For event details, visit: Haier Philippines Facebook Page

    Official Hashtags: #HaierPhRun2025 #HaierRunForFuturePossibilities2025

  • PH Returns to Biggest Stage for Children’s Books, with Expanded Presence and 120 Titles

    PH Returns to Biggest Stage for Children’s Books, with Expanded Presence and 120 Titles

    BOLOGNA, ITALY – Following a successful debut participation at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) in 2024, the Philippines is set to return to the world’s foremost event for children’s books, which will take place from March 31 to April 3, 2025, at the BolognaFiere Exhibition Centre in Italy. The country’s participation will be led by the National Book Development Board (NBDB), with support from the Philippine Board on Books for Young People (PBBY) and the International Board on Books for Young People Philippines (IBBY PH).

    Last year marked several milestones for the Philippine book publishing industry. Before its successful presentation at the Frankfurt Book Fair in October, the Philippines made waves in the book world with its children’s book sector being selected as the Country of Focus at the Asian Festival of Children’s Content in Singapore. This set the stage for the Philippines’ debut at the BCBF, where the country showcased over 100 children’s books in a dedicated stand. For 2025, the Philippines is poised to build on last year’s success with an even more robust presence. The delegation will be represented by a talented group of children’s book professionals, including illustrator Fran Alvarez (Dancing Hands: A Story of Friendship in Filipino Sign Language), authors Faye Villanueva-Chelabian (co-founder of Kawangis Publishing), Liwliwa Malabed (Sampung Eroplano), Ergoe Tinio (Editor-in-Chief of Center for Art, New Ventures & Sustainable Development), and MJ Tumamac (co-founder of Aklat Alamid), alongside Eli Camacho (Product Development Manager at Adarna House), Sophia Garduce (Southern Voices Printing Press), and Isa Songco (co-founder of Kwentoon).

    “This is another win for our children’s book sector, which is an enduring and vital part of our book industry. If our participation at the BCBF last year was an introduction to our children’s books, this year, we’re expanding our participation with a larger book curation focused on themes that represent the true nature of Philippine children’s stories: progressive, endlessly curious, and consider children as smart, imaginative readers with a great sense of agency,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    This year’s curation will feature 120 titles that explore a variety of themes, including Philippine culture, diversity, environmental awareness, and sense of self and community. This selection of early readers, middle grade, and young adult books features both old and new voices in the Philippine children’s book sector, highlighting the authors and illustrators behind one of the country’s most widely read and translated genres.

    Additionally, the Philippines will host a range of activities, including an art workshop for children, which will take place at the Philippine Embassy in Rome on March 29, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The event will feature two sessions: Mom’s Best Playdough Activities focusing on Philippine national symbols, and an art workshop by Liza Flores of Ang INK (Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan), encouraging young participants to explore their creativity while learning about Filipino culture. On April 1, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the Philippine Collective Stand will host a reception, welcoming Ambassador Nathaniel G. Imperial and Consul General Elmer G. Cato, along with other representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Rome and the Philippine Consulate in Milan.  

    In addition to these, the Philippines is supporting a special Happy Hour event called Drink & Draw with the Philippines, organized by German Stories and the Frankfurter Buchmesse. This gathering will take place on April 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Hall 30, B24-C11.

    Since 1964, the Bologna Children’s Book Fair has been the industry-leading fair where professionals working in children’s content from all over the world meet for networking, rights selling, and other opportunities for cross-media adaptation, as well as expand their knowledge in the art of creating children’s books through fora, workshops, exhibits, talks, and other activities. Over 25,000 visitors attend the BCBF every year. 

    This year, the BCBF will feature 1,500 exhibitors from approximately 90 countries and regions around the world. The Philippine country stand will be located at Hall 29, B24-C23.

    For industry professionals looking to attend the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, tickets can be purchased at https://www.bolognachildrensbookfair.com/en/visitors/ticket-online/1131.html

    REFERENCE & MEDIA CONTACT:

    Divine Reyes-Caraecle, Chief of Communications & Promotions

    091713963394

    news@books.gov.ph

    About the National Book Development Board

    The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is the book authority of the Philippines. The agency is at the forefront of developing the Philippine publishing industry and safeguarding the country’s vibrant culture of authorship and reading. To learn more, visit our social media pages (@nbdphilippines).

  • Rex Education Celebrates 75 Years of Commitment to Education at AECON 2025

    Rex Education Celebrates 75 Years of Commitment to Education at AECON 2025

    Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing.

    Gathering of Change Makers in Education

    Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every learner and educator.

    In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera highlighted that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. He stated, “This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners.”

    Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of preparing Filipino learners for an increasingly digital world. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to developing future-ready learners by integrating technology, enhancing critical thinking, and strengthening public-private collaborations.

    One key session featured a panel discussion with respected education experts and policymakers:

    • Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director o of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2)
    • Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines and former DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching
    • Ms. Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC)
    • Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA)

    Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the discussion focused on improving learning outcomes in the Philippines. It emphasized evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability among education leaders, and the importance of authentic assessments to accurately measure student progress.

    In the afternoon, Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, led a plenary session on student engagement. She challenged traditional approaches and introduced innovative methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences.

    A Moment of Gratitude and the Symphony of Learning

    The second day of AECON began with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of Parañaque, reflecting on the journey of Rex Education and its mission to support Filipino education.

    After the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the Symphony of Learning Solutions, a suite of educational resources supporting lifelong learning, from early childhood to professional development. This initiative highlights REX’s commitment to integrating assessment, intervention, and enrichment for educators and learners.

    Buhain compared learning to a symphony, where every effort, resource, and voice comes together to create something meaningful. He assured, “The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when they are necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners.”

    The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, learning instruments, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments to ensure well-rounded education at every stage.

    A Unified Pledge for Quality Education

    As the congress concluded, a spirit of unity filled the hall as attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, this solemn moment reaffirmed the commitment of educators and education stakeholders to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners.

    75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment

    Reaching 75 years is a testament to Rex Education’s dedication to every learner and educator it has served. The journey continues.

    In his message of gratitude, REX Chairman and President Atty. Dominador Buhain thanked all the Edukampyons and shared, “Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds… We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner.”

    As Rex Education looks beyond 75 years, its commitment remains—to be the trusted katuwang of every Filipino educator, school, and learner, fostering lifelong learning for generations—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.

    REFERENCE: Richard C. Mamuyac

  • Paynamics x Sterling Bank of Asia: Empowering Businesses Together!

    Paynamics x Sterling Bank of Asia: Empowering Businesses Together!

    Why Paynamics and Sterling Bank of Asia are empowering business together?

    We’re thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with Sterling Bank of Asia! Through this collaboration, Sterling Bank will introduce Paynamics’ cutting-edge payment solutions to its merchant clients—helping businesses streamline transactions and drive growth.

    Together, we’re making digital payments more accessible, seamless, and efficient for merchants across industries. This is just the beginning of financial innovation at work!

    Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA) and Paynamics Technologies have renewed their partnership to enhance the accessibility of digital payments for SBA’s business clients. Attending the event were (L-R) SBA Retail Banking Group Head and EVP Ralph Cadiz, along with President and CEO Cecilio San Pedro; Paynamics CEO Mylene Chua-Magleo, Board Member Esther Magleo, CFO Ronald Magleo, and Chief Revenue Officer Allan Condino.

    Stay tuned for more updates as we build the future of payments!

    #Paynamics #SterlingBankofAsia #Partnership #FintechInnovation #DigitalPayments

    Reference: sbaPR

  • Ajinomoto Partners with Fast Logistics to Advance ESG Initiatives Through Electric Vehicles

    Ajinomoto Partners with Fast Logistics to Advance ESG Initiatives Through Electric Vehicles

    Ajinomoto has partnered with Fast Logistics Corporation, the leading end-to-end supply chain provider in the Philippines, to drive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives by integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into its logistics operations. This partnership marks a significant step toward sustainable supply chain solutions, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting eco-friendly transportation practices.

    Representatives from Ajinomoto and Fast Logistics Corporation (FROM L-R) Ely S. Baleta, Chief Commercial Officer , Fast Logistics Corporation, Manuel L. Onrejas, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Fast Logistics Corporation,Koichi Ozaki, President, Ajinomoto Philippines Corpotation, Makoto Tanabe, Vice President, Ajinomoto, Ernie Carlos,Supply Chain Director, and Jovany Ann Lee, AVP, Head of Revenue Marketing & CRM

    Fast Logistics Corporation has an ESG strategy in place as part of its commitment to sustainability and innovation, that includes transitioning to a low-carbon economy, aimed at reducing emissions in the long term. With over 50 years of expertise in seafreight, airfreight, inland trucking, RoRo transport, warehousing, cold chain solutions, and value-added services, Fast Logistics continues to provide efficient, cost-effective, and future-ready logistics solutions for businesses.

    Manuel L. Onrejas, Jr., Chief Operating Officer of Fast Logistics, emphasized the company’s commitment to ESG principles, stating: “Fast Logistics is deeply invested in sustainability, building stronger relationships with our clients and employees while contributing to the positive development of society. We recognize that global players are rapidly embracing technology, and we are honored to partner with Ajinomoto in leading this shift. Through this collaboration, we aim to encourage companies—both local and multinational—to optimize delivery windows, introduce night deliveries to ease traffic congestion, and adopt electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, our self-sustaining charging stations help conserve energy in the community grid, and our exclusive truck availability for clients alleviates trucking shortages.”

    “At Fast, we believe leadership comes with an ESG responsibility. By transforming the way we operate the supply chain in partnership with our clients and suppliers, we actively support shared decarbonization goals and foster sustainable practices.

    This isn’t just about business—it’s about the future of our planet, the same planet we’ll pass on to our children and loved ones,” Onrejas added.

    Ajinomoto and Fast Logistics’ partnership sets a precedent for businesses seeking innovative and sustainable logistics solutions. Through shared commitment and collaboration, they aim to pave the way for a greener, more efficient,and socially responsible supply chain—benefiting businesses, communities, and the planet.

    For more information on Fast Logistics’ ESG initiatives, visit www.fast.com.ph.

    REFERENCE:

    SALGADO PR