DULDULAO DOT NET This Day & Beyond

Category: Advocacy

  • NTU Singapore and CloudMile Deploy Generative AI to Slash Admin Work by Two Weeks Monthly

    NTU Singapore and CloudMile Deploy Generative AI to Slash Admin Work by Two Weeks Monthly

    SINGAPORE – June 26, 2025 – Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has partnered with leading AI provider CloudMile to enhance its student virtual assistant, Lyon Bot. By integrating Google’s Gemini large language model (LLM), the upgraded AI chatbot delivers faster, more accurate responses to student inquiries—especially on accommodation—boosting engagement while streamlining administrative tasks and saving the university over 14 days of manual work each month.

    “We are transitioning from an intent-based Natural Language Processing chatbot to a GenAI chatbot for student housing inquiries to enhance flexibility, scalability, and user experience.” said Mr Ng Kee Haur, Deputy Director, Enterprise IT, Centre for IT Services at NTU. “While GenAI can handle complex, unstructured queries, there is still a role for the intent-based chatbot in specific scenarios. This hybrid approach allows us to balance efficiency with precision.”

    AI Assistant Evolves: Enhanced Accuracy and Engagement

    NTU initially introduced Lyon Bot in 2020 to assist nearly 6,000 freshmen with enrollment, easing the administrative burden on university staff. The original system, built on Google Dialogflow Essentials, faced challenges adapting to evolving student needs and required laborious manual data tagging and updates.

    With CloudMile’s expertise, NTU has now advanced Lyon Bot into a Generative AI-powered system. The new version employs multi-layer processing — including query understanding, demand classification, and answer generation — to retrieve information in real-time from multiple centrally managed data sources. This has markedly improved conversational accuracy and response speed, significantly reducing error rates.

    “With the new AI-powered chatbot, we are currently saving around 14.5 days’ worth of work every month,” said Alvin Ong, Chief Information Officer of NTU. “This allows our staff to focus on tasks that require human insight and creativity.”

    CloudMile Demonstrates Generative AI and Multi-Cloud Prowess in Educational Transformation

    This collaboration highlights CloudMile’s technical depth in Generative AI application and data governance, as well as its capabilities in delivering complex international projects. CloudMile provided customized consulting services and system integration tailored to the specific needs of the educational institution, assisting NTU in building a stable and scalable AI conversational framework.

    Jeremy Heng, Managing Director, Southeast Asia at CloudMile, commented, “The transformation of NTU’s Lyon Bot is a testament to our commitment to enhancing human-computer interaction through AI. CloudMile will continue supporting institutions and enterprises in leveraging AI for innovation excellence.”

    About Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU)

    Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) is a diverse institution of higher learning with over 35,000 students, internationally renowned for its excellence in academics and research. NTU is consistently ranked among the world’s best young universities and is highly regarded for its leading capabilities in fields such as artificial intelligence, computer science, and engineering.

    About CloudMile

    CloudMile is a leading AI and cloud technology group in Asia, focused on driving enterprise growth through digital transformation powered by AI and data technology. With dual headquarters in Taipei and Singapore, and offices across Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam, CloudMile provides end-to-end AI transformation solutions, from multi-cloud architecture design and technical integration to strategic AI consulting. For more information, please visit www.mile.cloud.

    Reference & CloudMile Press Contacts
    Mei Chang
    Account Manager
    Email: mei@GlobalPR.agency
    Skype: meiskalamera Jean-Pierre

    Skalamera
    DirectorEmail: jp@GlobalPR.agency
    Skype: GPR-JP

  • MERANAW IDENTITY AND HERITAGE AT THE HEART OF THE 1ST MARAWI CHILDREN’S BOOK FEST

    MARAWI CITY, LANAO DEL SUR – The National Book Development Board (NBDB), in partnership with Aklat Alamid, will host the first-ever Marawi Children’s Book Fest on June 27-29, 2025 at the Mindanao State University’s main campus. 

    The event aims to equip authors, illustrators, and publishers with the necessary skills and knowledge in producing children’s books, while highlighting Meranaw culture and traditions. 

    “There should be available quality and accessible Maranao books that represent who they are and the way they live. In the 2023 National Readership Survey results, there was a notable decline in reading non-school books, which was at 43% for children. Access to books emerged as the primary reason for the decline, with limited awareness of public libraries and constraints in time and distance,” said NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade.

    She added, “NBDB’s grant supports publishing stakeholders in enhancing their skills and knowledge through professional development events such as the Marawi Children’s Book Fest. We encourage other organizations to initiate events such as this.”

    In a list compiled by Aklat Alamid, only around 20 children’s books from different regions in the country feature Muslim stories from 1990 to 2012 but were mostly authored by non-Muslim Filipinos. The next year, 2013, marked a new milestone as the number of titles featuring Muslim stories increased to more than 100 titles by 2023.  With the implementation of Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education starting in the 2012-2013 school year, different mother tongues, including those spoken by Muslim Filipinos, were used in reading materials for early-grade level students. 

    “The seminar-workshop aims to orient the participants on the importance of books for Meranaw children and to guide the preselected authors and illustrators in the process of developing the picture books,” said M.J. Cagumbay Tumamac, popularly known as Xi Zuq to his readers, who is also the co-founder and administrative head of Aklat Alamid. 

    He added, “As part of a larger project, [we aim] to develop four picture books on Meranaw culture, created by Meranaw authors and illustrators, written in the Meranaw language, and for Meranaw readers.” 

    The festival takes on deeper significance in the context of post-siege Marawi, where the 2017 conflict left physical and emotional scars on the community. In the years since, educators, parents, and cultural advocates have underscored the role of storytelling in rebuilding Maranao identity and heritage, as well as promoting healing and fostering peace. 

    Meranaw Orthography, Storytelling Sessions, Bibliotherapy

    One of the main events at the workshop is a panel discussion titled Stories of Hope: Meranaw Voices from Marawi, which will present peacebuilding efforts in the community and share tools for education and empowerment with the participants. 

    Meanwhile, there will also be an expressive, interactive, and visual storytelling session on two culturally rich children’s books, Si Jalal Ago So Ranaw and Ranao Monster. These stories are rooted in Meranaw culture and the natural beauty of Lake Lanao, the largest lake in Mindanao. 

    The three-day event will also include discussions and workshops on the importance of Meranaw children’s books, Maranao orthography, children’s books illustration, and bibliotherapy. In a hybrid format, the book fest is expected to gather 150 participants including students, parents, teachers, authors, publishers, and novice illustrators. The speakers and facilitators are from the MSU-Main Campus, the City Schools Division of Marawi, Teach Peace Build Peace Movement Inc., and Aklat Alamid. 

    The event is in partnership with the university’s Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center, the City Schools Division of Marawi, and the Division of Lanao del Sur 1 under the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

    With the Marawi Children’s Book Fest, the NBDB and Aklat Alamid are working together to reclaim narrative spaces for a community whose stories deserve to be read, heard, and cherished. 

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Divine Reyes-Caraecle

    Chief, Communications & Promotions
    0917-1396394
    communications@books.gov.ph

  • Solane Launches “SIGURADONG SOLANE” Campaign, Reinforcing Unwavering Commitment to LPG Safety

    Solane Launches “SIGURADONG SOLANE” Campaign, Reinforcing Unwavering Commitment to LPG Safety

    Solane, one of the country’s trusted leaders in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) industry, recently launched its newest campaign, “SIGURADONG SOLANE”. This comprehensive initiative underscores the company’s long-standing and unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its consumers through the promotion of safe LPG usage and the guarantee of high-quality products.

    The campaign aims to further educate the public on the crucial aspects of LPG safety, highlighting peace of mind consumers will get https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=qi2Omg&v=740825535182197&rdid=PRVF5bQJRWOmriSMin choosing Solane.

    “SIGURADONG SOLANE” emphasizes three key pillars of safety and quality assurance:

    Auto Shut-Off Feature: Solane “De Salpak” tanks are equipped with regulator mechanism that automatically stops the flow of LPG in the event that the hose is accidentally pulled-of, significantly minimizing potential hazards. This feature provides an added layer of security, giving consumers peace of mind as they bring their Solane tank inside their home.

    Guaranteed Correct Weight: Solane understands the importance of fair and accurate transactions keeping its promise of delivering LPG tanks with the exact weight indicated. This commitment ensures that consumers receive the full value for their money while also adhering to safety standards, as underfilled or overfilled tanks can pose risks.

    Well-maintained LPG Tanks: Safety extends beyond just the features of the LPG. Solane adheres to industry standards for safety and reliability. This proactive approach to tank maintenance guarantees that consumers receive a safe and reliable product every time.

    With Solane, we promise to deliver not just a product, but complete peace of mind. That’s why safety is at the core of everything we do .” explained Pia Bernabe, Sr. Brand Manager of Solane LPG. “Through our ‘SIGURADONG SOLANE’ campaign, we’re empowering consumers to be discerning and vigilant when choosing their LPG—to choose yung sigurado” added Bernabe.

    The “SIGURADONG SOLANE” campaign has been rolled out through various channels, including social media, digital platforms, and on-ground activations, to reach a wider audience and effectively communicate the importance of LPG safety. The campaign reiterates the brand’s being SAFE and SULIT: Solane is both “safe sa disgrasya” (safe from accidents due to potential hazards) and “safe sa gastos” (cost-effective), providing our customers with peace of mind and value for their money.

    For the full details of “SIGURADONG SOLANE” campaign, make sure to watch the full video by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AqL7hxPbm/?mibextid=wwXIfr

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • PW Philippines Corp Launches Marikina Branch to Offer Free Japanese Language Education to Filipino Youth

    PW Philippines Corp Launches Marikina Branch to Offer Free Japanese Language Education to Filipino Youth

    Marikina City, Philippines — PW Philippines Corp has officially opened its newest branch in Marikina City, aiming to provide accessible Japanese language education and Prometric review programs to more Filipino youth. The launch marks an exciting step forward in its mission to bring free language learning opportunities closer to learners in Luzon.

    Located within the Pamantasan Ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar), the new branch offers a structured and focused approach to language instruction, grounded in learning and clear guidance. This expansion follows the continued growth of its main branch in Davao City.

    “The Marikina branch represents our desire to serve more communities through education that builds confidence and discipline,” the team behind PW Philippines Corp shared. “We believe that language learning is not only about acquiring skills but also about empowering individuals to grow and discover their potential.”

    The organization also clarified its role in the education sector: PW Philippines Corp is a language tutorial center—not a recruitment agency—and does not participate in any employment process.

    Qualifications for Enrollment

    To qualify for the free Japanese language and Prometric review program offered by PW Philippines Corp – Marikina, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    ● Must be 17 to 30 years old

    ● Must have a minimum height of 4’11

    ● Must be a Grade 12 graduate, a two-year vocational graduate, or a college graduate

    ● Must be able to commit to regular face-to-face classesfor a period of six months, held Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

    ● Must have no history of tattoos

    ● Must be physically and mentally fit to undergo intensive training

    Location

    Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar)
    Rainbow Street corner Russet Street, SSS Village, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City

    Programs Offered

    PW Philippines Corp – Marikina provides the following free, in-person training programs:

    ● Special Nihongo for Caregiving

    ● Special Nihongo for Hotel Accommodation

    ● Special Nihongo for Food Service

    Each course includes targeted Japanese language instruction and Prometric review sessions. All classes are led by instructors who are certified passers of Japanese language proficiency exams, ensuring learners receive high-quality, goal-oriented education tailored to real-life applications.

    Schedule and Important Dates

    ● Trial Class: July 7, 2025 (Monday)

    ● Official Start of Classes: July 14, 2025 (Monday)

    ● Class Days: Mondays to Fridays

    ● Class Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

    ● Instruction Mode: Face-to-face only

    Registration and Contact Information

    Registration Form:
    https://bit.ly/our-register_marikina-2025

    Facebook Page:
    www.facebook.com/OnoderaUserRunPhilippinesMarikinaCenter

    Email Inquiries:
    veronica@ph.onodera-user-run.com

    lorenzo@ph.onodera-user-run.com

    our-fbphilippines012@ph.onodera-user-run.com

    Contact Number:

    0965 841 2342 / 0920 433 8625

    Uplifting Learning Through Language

    Through this expansion, PW Philippines Corp reaffirms its commitment to nurturing learners through clear instruction, language skills, and supportive classroom environments. The Marikina branch is envisioned to become a space where young Filipinos can explore the Japanese language while building discipline, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning.

    Reference:

    Lariza Garcia

  • “Go Healthy with Taiwan” global contest with grand prize of USD30,000 – now inviting entries on proposals for health and wellness solutions

    “Go Healthy with Taiwan” global contest with grand prize of USD30,000 – now inviting entries on proposals for health and wellness solutions

    Taiwan Excellence launches their annual contest for innovative proposals, with this year’s theme entitled: “Go Healthy with Taiwan.” To improve global health standards and promote overall well-being in communities and cities around the world, Taiwan Excellence encourages those from governments, institutions, and organizations to submit their original ideas that integrate holistic solutions and high-quality health products from Taiwan.

    The “Go Healthy with Taiwan” campaign brings into the spotlight five key sectors of Taiwan’s health industry: smart healthcare, medical aesthetics and wellness, fitness equipment, sports technologies, and bicycles. Long recognized as the “Bicycle Kingdom,” Taiwan is a global leader in high-end bicycle manufacturing and innovations in sustainability. Taiwanese companies are among the world’s top suppliers in fitness equipment, integrating AI with strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities. In smart healthcare, Taiwan leverages its advanced ICT, semiconductor expertise, and elite medical system to offer integrated solutions for the global health tech market.

    “Go Healthy with Taiwan” Global Kickoff Event

    The event to officially launch the campaign was held in Taiwan on Tuesday, June 3. The press conference welcomed distinguished guests including Mr. Robert Wu, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association; Mr. Jeff Chen, President of the Taiwan Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Spark Huang, Director of the Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, alongside key industry representatives. Media representatives from 12 international outlets across Europe, the U.S., Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, as well as foreign diplomats in Taiwan, also attended in support of the campaign.

    The campaign’s promotional theme, aptly titled “Pitching Taiwan’s Best: A Homerun for Proposals!”, was unveiled during the event. The Taiwanese baseball star, Mr. An-Ko Lin, made a surprise appearance along with the mascot of Taiwan Excellence, Fu Bear. With the venue transformed into the likeness of a baseball field, Lin and Fu Bear reenacted symbolic home runs to represent Taiwan championing top-tier health solutions and collaboration with innovators across the globe.

    Ms. Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), noted the contest’s goal for Taiwan and for the world. “President Lai Chiang-te is actively advancing the vision of a “Healthy Taiwan.” By encouraging global participation and collaboration for a healthier future, this campaign marks a significant step in bringing this vision to life.”

    Mr. Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), speaks about the importance of the campaign from a national to global scale. “This international call not only highlights the strength and innovation of Taiwan’s comprehensive health industry, but also encourages partnerships between nations around the world that advance smart and sustainable healthy lifestyles with the help of Taiwan’s leading technologies and solutions.”

    How to Join “Go Healthy with Taiwan”

    “Go Healthy with Taiwan” aims to build on the success of last year’s “Go Green with Taiwan” contest–which received 396 submissions from 45 countries. This year, the contest’s goal is to receive over 500 entries from across 5 continents, further expanding international reach and practical applications from Taiwan. All high-quality entries will be given opportunities to explore collaboration with world-class Taiwanese companies, and the top three proposals will each be awarded USD30,000.

    The submission period is open from May 15 to August 14, 2025. For more information, visit the official website at http://gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org. For updates on the “Go Healthy with Taiwan” contest, follow Taiwan Excellence PH on Facebook and Instagram.

    Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), through the commission of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), opens the call around the world for proposals under the theme “Go Healthy with Taiwan” –to increase the visibility of Taiwan in the health industry and to foster global partnerships with opportunities for local implementation. Taiwan Excellence, the joint project by TAITRA and TITA, eagerly invites everyone to join the initiative of innovative, healthy solutions for the world.

    REFERENCE:

    Richard Mamuyac

  • Calling All Aspiring Bakers: Get Ready for URC FLOUR’s “BIDA SA MASA, SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR” CONTEST

    Calling All Aspiring Bakers: Get Ready for URC FLOUR’s “BIDA SA MASA, SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR” CONTEST

    Are you a passionate baker with dreams of turning your delicious creations into a thriving business? If so, get ready because Universal Robina Corporation (URC) might just have the perfect opportunity for you with their exciting “BIDA SA MASA, SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR” contest!

    URC Flour is calling all bakers with a passion for baking to level up and join the URC Flour Bida sa Misa. Be the next “Bida Bakerpreneur”!

    URC Flour is committed to empowering the next generation of baker-entrepreneurs, and BIDA sa MASA is the company’s flagship program designed to help you rise!

    This year’s event will be held in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Pasig City, Sariaya, Quezon and Davao City. This contest will showcase a variety of delicacies, including breads, cakes and pastries as contestants will be representing their respective regions via a unique and delicious baked goods.

    There will be two categories for the contest, open to Home Baker or hobbyist who wants to level up their baking skills with the opportunity of owning their own bakery, and for Pro Bakers who have been creating delicious baked goods in a bakery, restaurant or café and wants to expand their skills and business.

    Since 2017, Universal Robina Corporation, through its Flour Division, has empowered aspiring bakers through Flourish Pilipinas, a learning program that aims to foster a nation of baker-entrepreneurs. From educational initiatives and workshops to baking competitions, the program has continuously evolved to recognize, hone, and support the skills, talent, and passion of baker hopefuls.

    “URC Flour’s initiative together with the support of our partner LGUs, aims to support community members to turn their baking skills into successful start-up businesses. Our goal is to empower them and promote economic growth by organizing a baking competition that offers not only cash prizes, but most importantly, we want to impart the needed knowledge and resources to support their start-up ventures. BIDA SA MASA 2025 will put their newfound baking skills to the test in a lively and delicious baking competition” said Naida Dalisay, Commercial Director, URC Flour Division.

    📷This year’s “BIDA SA MASA 2025” will be URC Flour’s second installment and because of the program’s success, the search for the “BIDA BAKEPRENEUER” contest mechanics has been updated with the objective to equip community bakers with both the technical know-how and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in the competitive baking industry.

    WHO WILL BE THIS YEAR’S “BIDA SA MASA” GRAND CHAMPION? Exciting prizes is up for grabs for this year’s most awaited baking competition from URC Flour.

    The contest will feature various stages designed to test and develop the participants’ abilities, including; Baking Training Workshop: Opportunities to learn new techniques and refine existing skill from URC Flour tech team. Business Coaching ad Planning will be part of the training that will help them come up with their own business plan.

    Exciting prizes awaits the top winners of this year’s BIDA SA MASA,SEARCH FOR BIDA BAKERPRENEUR baking competition. Champions from each category will win a total of P 100,000.00 with P 70,000.00 as cash prize and P 30,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC flour products. Finalists from Pasig, Quezon and Davao who will be joining the championship will get a consolation prize of P 30,000.00 prize, with P 20,000.00 cash and P 10,000.00 worth of baking equipment and URC Flour products.

    So, whether you’re a seasoned home baker with a secret recipe or an enthusiastic newcomer eager to learn, if you have the drive and the dream, we want to hear from you!

    For complete details about the contest, including eligibility criteria, mechanics, prizes, and how to register, we urge you to visit the official URC Flour website at www.urcflour.com You can also find additional information and updates on URC Flour’s official social media channels and other partner platforms.

    Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by. Unleash your inner baking star and become the next “BIDA sa MASA”!

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Lariza Garcia

  • DTI has Launched the Shared Service Facility for the Expansion of the Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center

    DTI has Launched the Shared Service Facility for the Expansion of the Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center

    Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, June 11, 2025 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, has launched today, the Shared Service Facility (SSF) for the Expansion of the Ilocos Norte MSME Incubation Center (IN-MIC) to boosts local economy.

    According to DTI, the ₱3.5 million project—funded and facilitated by DTI—provides ICT tools, exhibit materials, and office equipment to strengthen support for local entrepreneurs. The upgraded center will offer enhanced co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and exhibit equipment to serve more micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    Photo Credit: DTI Ilocos Norte

    The event was graced by Hon. Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Hon. Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, DTI Region 1 Regional Director Merlie D. Membrere, and DTI Ilocos Norte Provincial Director Amelia E. Galvez.

    DTI mentioned also that this initiative reflects continued commitment to boosting the local economy and empowering MSMEs through innovation, enterprise development, and strong local partnerships.

    REFERENCE: DTI Ilocos Norte

    iamDTIph

    BagongPilipinas

    SharedServiceFacility

  • Celebrate Father’s Day with Timeless Tunes: Join the One Stop Record Fair at Ayala Malls Trinoma!

    Celebrate Father’s Day with Timeless Tunes: Join the One Stop Record Fair at Ayala Malls Trinoma!

    This coming Father’s Day, gear up for the ultimate vinyl experience at the One Stop Record Fair happening at Ayala Malls Trinoma Activity Center from June 14 to 15, 2025.

    The quarterly vinyl record fair promises to take everyone on a nostalgic journey and be reconnected through timeless tunes that have sound tracked generations.

    From classic rock anthems to beloved OPM hits, jazz and soul, the event will bring a vast collection of rare, vintage and new vinyl records that will delight dads and music enthusiasts alike.

    Last March, Ayala Malls Trinoma housed the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion for two days, right at the heart of Quezon City, which drew in patrons, curious mall-goers and the younger generation.

    Due to public demand, the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion Dad’s Day edition will come back to Ayala Malls Trinoma for something bigger and better.

    The staple all-day old-school music spun by Manila’s veteran DJs, the intimate and nostalgic atmosphere and a great selection of vinyl records were maintained but more upgrades set it apart from prior fairs.

    Over 20 vinyl vendors were present, but beyond music, there were also CDs, cassette tapes, band shirts and other vintage items, such as coins and bills, and collectibles sold at the event.

    Trinoma also added its own spin to the event, by offering free freshly made mocktails from TGI Fridays and beautifully curated flower bouquet from Smitten. Customers just need to present a minimum single receipt worth P500 from any Trinoma merchant.

    “The energy at our last One Stop Record Fair at Ayala Malls Trinoma was electric!” Sari Osorio, organizer of the One Stop Record Fair, said.

    “As we gear up for our upcoming Father’s Day event, we are thrilled to see the community so excited about records, art, collectibles and of course, the vinyl community. Let’s make this Father’s Day one to remember!” she added.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Richard C. Mamuyac