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Category: Education

  • More female linecrew set to join Meralco workforce

    More female linecrew set to join Meralco workforce

    The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is set to welcome new female linecrew as part of its continuing efforts to champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

    Thirty-four (34) aspirants, including 13 women, have completed the six-month Meralco Linecrew Training Program (MLTP) that started last May. They will be endorsed for further assessment and possible hiring and deployment.

    The MLTP is a comprehensive training course open to both men and women that involves a series of lectures, thorough physical conditioning, critical assessments, and on-the-job training (OJT) program geared towards Meralco’s efforts to continuously develop a pool of skilled linecrew.

    “All of the new MLTP trainees are equipped with the necessary training and tools so that they can safely perform their jobs to the best of their abilities. I am confident that the latest batch of MLTP graduates will use their new learnings to help deliver excellent service to Meralco’s customers,” MLTP Manager Roman Leandro Manlapaz said.

    Traditionally operating in a male-dominated industry, Meralco pioneered the training and hiring of female linecrew in Southeast Asia back in 2013. A total of 11 women from the first batch are still working in the company in various capacities, helping deliver stable and reliable electricity service to Meralco customers.

    This year’s relaunch of the MLTP forms part of the power distributor’s goal to increase women representation in the workforce to nearly half or 40% by 2030.

    Zuzette Castro, a 32-year-old overseas Filipino worker who is part of the newest batch of MLTP graduates, said the MLTP gave her an opportunity to return to the Philippines at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to raise her one-year-old son.

    “Being a linecrew is hard but what motivates me is the thought that this job will allow me to provide for my family and be of service to the public,” she said in Filipino.

    From working as a gasoline station cashier in Dubai, Castro is now equipped to climb utility poles to ensure a steady power supply. During her OJT, Castro was among those who helped restore power in Rizal province following the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.

    Like Castro, John Dexter Alonte also joined the MLTP in hopes of finding a stable job so that he can better provide for his family.

    The 27-year-old, who worked as a contractual hardware salesman for three years, takes inspiration from his fellow female linecrew trainees for their dedication to the craft.

    “Seeing women take on jobs that are typically done by men motivates me to excel in my work since I can see them all striving to do well,” Alonte said in Filipino, adding: “When I feel discouraged or tired, I tell myself that if women can do it, so can I.”

    The inclusion of female linecrew aspirants in the MLTP is part of #MBrace – Meralco’s overarching diversity and inclusion program aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 5 on Gender Equality and UN SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities.

    KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON. Thirty-four (34) Meralco Linecrew Training Program (MLTP) graduates, including 13 women, are ready to join Meralco to help deliver stable and reliable electricity service to customers after completing the six-month course at the Meralco Power Academy – Power Base in Antipolo City.

    Meralco also partnered with Don Bosco College-Canlubang for a technician scholarship program for the benefit of 15 aspiring female electrical technicians. The program covers the tuition and allowances of students undergoing the Technical Vocational Education Training Program for the dual NC II Program on Electrical Installation and Maintenance and Mechatronics that started in August.

    REFERENCE:

    Richard Mamuyac

  • Discover Malabon’s Best of the Best

    Discover Malabon’s Best of the Best

    Malabon Food and Gift Expo 2022 happens November 18 – 19.

    With Christmas just around the corner, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce & Industry Malabon (PCCI Malabon) is opening the city’s doors and inviting everyone to discover Malabon’s best of the best as it holds the first ever Malabon Food and Gift Expo 2022. The event is in partnership with the Local Government of Malabon with the support from Honorable Mayor Jeannie Sandoval.

    Event starts tomorrow, Friday, November 18 until Saturday November 19 at the Malabon Sports Complex. Explore the homegrown treasures of the city. You will be surprised to see how Malabon’s food business landscape is thriving from local delicacies to food products as well as the value chain in the food industry from equipment, tools, packaging, and distribution network in the city.

    Through this expo, PCCI Malabon is creating a platform to help push Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) to grow and thrive. In line with the organization vision to be the voice of business owners and entrepreneurs and its mission to provide technical assistance through job matching, credit access and financial planning, and digital transformation in marketing.

    The expo is the testament to PCCI Malabon’s goal of fostering and position Malabon as the Philippines primary food industry hub and leading supply chain through warehouse and distribution facilities, according to PCCI Malabon President Elsie Chua.

    “The Malabon Food and Gift Expo 2022 provides a platform for our Malabon MSMEs to showcase our products and services that are proudly ‘Made in Malabon.’ Being a businesswoman who slowly built Melawares 45 years ago, I firmly believe in the power of mentoring and the right support. Through projects like this expo, we are giving them the chance to grow so they too can thrive together with the homegrown Malabon business big brothers and sisters like Liwanag Candle, Rufina’s Patis, Master Sardines, Dolor’s Kakanin, Melawares or Remilly’s Yema Cake,” Chua said.

    The event is free admission to the public — just present your government issued ID to register.

    The two-day expo is filled with fun activities with learning and inspirational sessions. If you are online, you can join the event through the live and interactive online selling on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PCCIMalabonInc.

    To maximize the experience, join the expo onsite. Learn from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) food safety program on how to keep shelf life of food and BIST/ financing support program. From the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) / Small Business Corporation is about credit access financing program. Also, KMME Program and BMBE Program. Learn from Francorp Philippines on how to grow their business through franchising.

    To further ignite the passion from our MSMEs, Philippines esteemed entrepreneurs will share some inspiring talks to be led by Vice President of FFCCCII Cecilio Pedro of Founder and CEO, Lamoiyan Corporation and Mrs Natividad Cheng, Founder and CEO, Uratex and Ms. Tess Ngantian, Owner of Lotsa Pizza and AVP, PCCI National.

    Guest can also watch out for the live cooking demonstration by celebrity Chef Myke “Tatung” Sarthou and learn how to create brand marketing from Mr. Ian John White Hyndman, Manager Partner of Dagaz Consultancy from Dubai, UAE.

    Plan your itinerary tomorrow and on Saturday and head on to Malabon Food and Gift Expo 2022. Tara na, Masarap sa Malabon!

    The expo was made possible by Platinum Sponsors Melawares / Max Ideas and Spring Oil; Gold Sponsors include CDO, Dolores Kakanin, Remilly Cake, Ni Hao Express, Jamicos, Eagle Food, and Fudsource, and; Silver sponsors Pares Ave, Universal Canning, Manila Cocktails, Longlife, and Ideal Spaghetti.

    REFERENCE:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Rex Education Showcases Lifelong Learning Solutions at the 2022 CEAP National Convention

    Rex Education Showcases Lifelong Learning Solutions at the 2022 CEAP National Convention

    After two virtual events during the pandemic, the 2022 Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) National Convention is back on ground with Rex Education and a strong delegation of educators, school heads, and superintendents from all over the country.

    Situated within the post-pandemic context, the 2022 CEAP National Convention hopes to bring together the learnings and experiences of schools who are recovering slowly from the challenges of the past 2 years, and help them and all educators and learners collaborate more to move education forward progressively and spiritually.

    Don Timothy Buhain, Rex Education chief executive officer; Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, author; Atty. Dominador Buhain, Rex Education chairman and president; and Danda Crimelda Buhain, Rex Education chief external affairs officer at the book signing of “Code of Ethics of Professional Teachers 2023 Edition”

    The theme, “Pilgrims of Hope Moving Forward in Synodality,” is inspired from the Holy Year 2025 motto, “Pilgrims of Hope,” which represents the theme of Pope Francis’ pontificate. It also calls upon the journeying together of various members of the education sector as one Church, as prescribed by Pope Francis in his Global Compact on Education message in October 2020.

    The Rex Education Hub showcased REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development.

    “To educate is always an act of hope, one that calls for cooperation in turning a barren and paralyzing indifference into another way of thinking that recognizes our interdependence,” said Pope Francis during the speech. “The journey of life calls for hope grounded in solidarity. All change requires a process of education in order to create new paradigms capable of responding to the challenges and problems of the contemporary world, of understanding and finding solutions to the needs of every generation, and in this way contributing to the flourishing of humanity now and in the future.”

    Rex Education Hub: A Lifelong Learning Journey

    Building on the theme of the 2022 CEAP National Convention, the Rex Education Hub was created for delegates to have a glimpse of every Filipino learner’s lifelong learning journey through rediscovering REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development.

    The Rex Education Hub showcased REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development.

    The hub was also designed for delegates to feel renewed excitement about learning in all life stages and to collaborate more and innovate further in support of quality education.”

    “The journey of life is a journey of learning. At REX, we support Pope Francis and CEAP’s vision for synodality, where every Filipino is moving as one for every learner, so that they are empowered, equipped, and championed.” said Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer of Rex Education. “Through the Rex Education Hub at CEAP 2022, we hope we have showcased, yet again, that we are here to support every learner in every phase of their journey.”

    Under Early Childhood Education (ECE), REX showcased its educational book titles, anchored on socio-emotional, language, and cognitive skills reflected in the six domains of development in the National Early Learning Framework (NELF) by the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council.

    In response to the need for learners to know more about Philippine history, “My Bayani” is REX’s series of storybooks that introduces Filipino heroes to inspire self-analysis and reflection.

    Basic Education continues to be the foundation of many learners’ development journey. From kindergarten to senior high school, REX worktexts are applicable across disciplines and integrate values and character formation for holistic development. Other learning solutions such as “My Skill Builder,” “My Career Journey,” and “Laro, Likha, Linang” are supplementary and equally comprehensive materials that further support the Filipino learners throughout their learning journey.

    Moreover, after the pandemic reinforced digital solutions as non-negotiable in education, REX continued to build on the importance of digital resources. REX offers Schoology, a learning management system, and standardized assessments such as Digital Aces and Harrison Assessments as great tools that help mold learners who are ready for the demands of the 21st century.

    REX also further guides students as they step into higher education. Relevant and evidence-based solutions and up-to-date contents based on real-life applications are at the core of REX’s learning materials to prepare students as they choose and build their careers.

    As a lifelong learning partner to law students and practitioners, REX not only creates books, but also opportunities for mentoring and talks or conversations. A book signing with Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, author of Code of Ethics of Professional Teachers, was held on-site on October 27, 2022.

    As learning continues beyond formal education, REX’s suite of professional learning materials are intended for those who are looking to level up their journey and contribute to nation-building. Aside from various legal materials, REX’s solutions include the Barangay Handbook, designed for public servants to help them advance their knowledge and skills as they carry out their tasks for the benefit of their constituents.

    REX also highlighted their partnership across several promotional and educational campaigns with Edukasyon.ph, an organization dedicated to developing EdTech products and services that bridge the gap between teaching and learning in the digital world.

    CEAP 2022: A Renewal of Commitment to Edukampyons

    REX’s annual participation in the 2022 CEAP National Convention is a renewal of the company’s commitment to championing education and being every learner’s lifelong learning partner.

    Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer (leftmost); Danda Crimelda Buhain, chief external affairs officer (3rd from the right); and Jeanne Marie Fontelera-Tordesillas, chief marketing officer (rightmost) with Rex Education staff at the 2022 CEAP Rex Education Hub

    “As Edukampyons, we always protect, respect, and fulfill the needs of every Filipino learner. We can only do this when we work together with our educators, school heads and administrators, and stakeholders—fellow Edukampyons, who can help us move forward for a progressive education for our nation,” said Buhain.

    Held on October 25–28, 2022 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, CEAP 2022 brought together virtual attendees and on-ground delegates to attend concurrent sessions, Eucharistic celebrations, oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the CEAP National Board, and the conferment of the Pro Deo et Patria Awards.

    REFERENCE:

    Richard Mamuyac

  • Piracy is theft: Rex Education rallies consumers, publishing industry to support its anti-piracy campaign

    Piracy is theft: Rex Education rallies consumers, publishing industry to support its anti-piracy campaign

    Piracy is theft; piracy is a crime.

    In a bid to encourage consumers to stand against piracy, protect intellectual property, and support the local book publishing industry, Rex Education launched its anti-piracy campaign at the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) 2022.

    “After more than 70 years in the publishing industry, I can say that I am proud of the contribution and impact that every REX book has had in the lives of our learners. And we, at REX, would like to keep serving the Filipino learner through our learning materials—may it be printed, audio, or digital form. Through this anti-piracy campaign, we can keep the book industry flourishing and thriving. We can keep the passing of knowledge a sacred endeavor,” said Atty. Dominador Buhain, chairman of Rex Education.

    Piracy is punishable by law

    Educational book publishing is protected by Republic Act (RA) 8293, otherwise known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines. Under this law, the unauthorized reproduction and distribution of books, audiobooks, and other printed or digital learning materials is illegal and punishable by imprisonment and fines of up to PHP 1.5 million.

    However, piracy remains widespread in the country. According to the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), they received a 25% increase in piracy reports from consumers and complaints from rights holders in 2021 compared with reports in 2020. General and educational books and e-books accounted for 49% of reports on piracy, suggesting that many learning materials are still being downloaded and distributed illegally despite the rise of legitimate e-commerce shops and the prevalent availability of e-books and audiobooks.

    Rex Education launched its anti-piracy campaign to continue educating Filipinos about the damaging effects of piracy on authors and publishers. Rex also encourages consumers, who have become ubiquitous keepers of knowledge in this digital age, to help stop the illegal reproduction and distribution of books, e-books, audio books, and all other learning tools and materials.

    The movement aims to protect the hard work and talent of creators, and ultimately create a ripple effect in strengthening the respect for published materials to keep the publishing industry thriving.

    “Time, effort, money, and hard work go into every book that comes out of REX’s printing house. Hundreds of authors and thousands of employees are sustained by the learning materials we produce. Piracy is a crime. Piracy is disrespectful to authors, editors, artists, and the publishing industry as a whole,” said Jeanne Tordesillas, chief marketing officer of Rex Education.

    No to book piracy; respect creativity

    MIBF 2022 showed a strong confluence of the book publishing industry, educators, stakeholders from the education sector, creators and authors, consumers, and Filipino learners. Anchoring the movement at one of the biggest and most sought-after book fairs in the country meant bringing it closer to the learners and creators protected by the anti-piracy campaign.

    With the call “No to book piracy, protect intellectual property, respect creativity,” REX staged a rally around the venue with placards, t-shirts, and flyers. The staged rally gained instant attention and traction throughout the fair, leading attendees to the REX booth where the launch of the anti-piracy campaign was held.

    “We would like to keep providing authors an avenue to share their talents and pass on their knowledge to the next generation. We would like to keep providing jobs to our employees and workers of the publishing industry, most especially during these trying times. We want to teach the culture of discipline and respect to the next generation, so they value what goes into every book that passes through their hands,” said Buhain during the launch. “Today, we invite you to join us. Support the local publishing industry. Say no to piracy.”

    Join Rex Education in saying “no” to book piracy and “yes” to protecting creativity and intellectual property. Buy from legitimate sources; buy original. Watch and share the “Proud Ako” anti-piracy campaign video launched at the MIBF 2022, showcasing the hard work that goes behind every published book and learning material produced by REX.

    To support Rex Education and its efforts to protect the publishing industry, visit www.rex.com.ph.

    REFERENCE:

    Richard C. Mamuyac

  • Shopee sellers share the digital tools and features which help them thrive online

    Shopee sellers share the digital tools and features which help them thrive online

    These Cebu entrepreneurs prove that digitizing their business is seamless with Shopee

    Driven by this goal, Shopee recently held the second iteration of the Shopee University Roadshow and Shopee Kumustahan in Mandaue City, Cebu—two events designed to support MSMEs through expert-led learning sessions, as well as discussions with Shopee sellers, who successfully grew their businesses on the platform.

    Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said “With consumers’ changing needs and shopping behavior, it is important that we provide our sellers with the necessary tools to help them adapt and thrive in the e-commerce space. We are committed to helping each of our sellers find success on our platform through our seller engagement events, newly developed tools, monthly campaigns, and more.”

    E-commerce 101 anytime, anywhere via the Seller Education Hub

    Azela Taladua of BigGrocer Food and Grocery, went from having zero knowledge on e-commerce to efficiently running their online business with the help of the Shopee Seller Education Hub. “I was hired by BigGrocer to oversee their e-commerce channels, even though I did not have any background in this field. The different tools readily available on the Seller Education Hub, like Business Insights, made it easy for me to learn how to effectively manage our online operations,” shared Azela.

    The Seller Education Hub is one of the many learning resources that Shopee makes available to digital entrepreneurs to help them find success online. It contains webinars and courses, available in both English and Tagalog, designed to cater to the needs of all kinds of sellers – whether they’re starting out, leveling up, or scaling up. 

    Building Relationships and Reputation via Shopee Live and Live Cha

    In Sweet J&J’s Jimmy Martinez enjoys engaging with customers, and was able to grow their online business by using the different tools available on Shopee Live. “Hosting Shopee Livestream sessions has been crucial in helping us maintain relationships with our customers. Through our livestreams, we’re not only able to interact and engage with customers directly, but we’re also able to attract even more customers online,” Jimmy shared. Shopee Live features such as the Livestream Flash Sale, Audio and Video Calls, and more, help shops like In Sweet J&J increase engagement and establish connections with users.

    Jimmy also mentions that thanks to Shopee’s Live Chat feature, In Sweet J&J were able to develop good customer service and build strong relationships with their customers. “With Live Chat, we’re able to assure our customers that our products are of high quality, and that their orders are in safe and trusted hands.”

    Boosting Visibility and Sales with Big Campaigns

    In addition to the features and tools readily available to local sellers, Shopee’s monthly campaigns and sales have also been pivotal to the growth of these businesses. In the recently held 9.9 Super Shopping Day, local sellers saw a 6x uplift in items sold along with 87M views on Shopee Live.

    For Hilaire Labalan, a 20-year old student and the founder of Ithra Jewelry, participating in the various sales and offering discounts and vouchers has enabled her to attract new customers each month. “From starting out with five weekly customers, we now have around 200. Joining the monthly sales and offering discounts and promotions has enabled us to grow our customer base and generate even more sales for the business,” shared Hilaire. For those who want to venture into an online business, Shopee is here to kickstart your online selling journey today.

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

    REFERENCE:

    Pao Oga

    Shopee | Marketing | Public Relations (Media Relations)

    Mobile: +63 917 650 1835 (Viber/Whatsapp) 

    Address: 15F Asian Century Center (ACC) Building, 27th St. Corner 3rd Ave. BGC, Taguig 1634

  • These Wais Moms are now ready to put up their own business—here’s their journey to self-confidence and financial freedom

    These Wais Moms are now ready to put up their own business—here’s their journey to self-confidence and financial freedom

    Wais Moms Ruby Pagobo and Bernadette Aguilar get a fresh start on dreams for their families.

    Manila, Philippines – Continuing decades of support for millions of Filipino moms across the country, Surf Philippines, has launched the first ever online entrepreneurship program—Wais University. The program has since gained more than 13,000 enrollees for the program and counting.

    Surf envisions the program to be a catalyst for change that will help Wais moms all over the country to be successful in their entrepreneurship journey by promoting confidence to pursue their own business, help better understand the ins and outs of the trade, and give a better chance with any endeavor they want to launch.

    Two recent Wais University alumni, Ruby Pagobo and Bernadette Aguilar, share their stories as to how joining Surf’s online business course has provided them enough knowledge and confidence to finally start their own businesses, enabling them to dream bigger for themselves and their families.

    Challenges Faced

    Ruby, a full-time mom, dreams of one thing: Financial independence.“Gusto ko magakaroon ng financial freedom, yung walang utang kasi siyempre gusto ko ma-secure yung future ng pamilya ko. Yung asawa ko naman OFW, so minsan mahirap talaga.”

    Bernadette, who’s also a full-time housewife and mom, is working towards financial stability and is willing to learn more practical skills that can help start her own business. However, it hasn’t been a steady journey as she admits that there are times that her family often has to scrimp so that they can afford daily needs. “Napagkakasya ko ang budget para sa pangangailangan namin sa pamamagitan ng pagtitipid at pag-una ng mahahalagang bagay.”

    The pandemic and current inflation also took toll on both families. Bernadette recounts that loss of stable income and rising prices of goods have become one of the greatest challenges they have faced as a family especially when it comes to everyday needs.

    New Normal, New Knowledge

    Being Wais moms themselves and in hopes to gain more knowledge and opportunities to earn, both Ruby and Bernadette have signed up for the Wais University, a program launched by Surf with the help of the Filipina Homebased Moms (FHMoms) community group on Facebook.

    “Yung tingnan ko po yung mga topic na idi-discuss sa webinar, pasok po siya sa negosyo namin na gustong gawin,” Ruby recounts.“May nasimulan na kaming negosyo na online sushi store kaso nagsara noong bagyong Odette. Pero ngayon, sisimulan ulit namin pag uwi ng asawa ko.”

    Bernadette quickly became interested since the free virtual format befits her as a stay-at-home mom. “Naging interesado akong matuto ng mga skills na iniisip kong makakatulong sa akin. Lalo na pag may libreng oras ako, may mapaglaanan ako na importante at saka libre naman, nasa bahay lang din ako at may gamit na cellphone.”

    Wais Learnings

    Both Ruby and Bernadette admit that they enjoyed taking part in the online entrepreneurship program.

    For Ruby, the assessment part of the program allows her to test her learnings. She’s now more confident and enthusiastic to work especially because she now knows what permits she needs in establishing both an online and physical store.

    “Lahat tayo may pangarap sa buhay, kaya go lang ng go!” encourages Ruby. “Ang mga problema nandiyan talaga yan kaya maghanap tayo ng paraan para magka-business. Sipag at Tiyaga lang talaga.”

    Meanwhile, Bernadette is excited for other moms who get to enroll in the future as the course is free and provides resources to help moms be more confident in starting their own business. Bernadette flourishes with her own soap-making business, applying her Wais University learnings.

    She encourages other moms to take advantage of this free program, invest in their own learnings and start their own Wais Journey. “Yung may kids na pwede mag invest ng time sa pagsali sa mga grupo na sumusuporta sa mga ina at matuto sa ikauunlad ng sarili para makahanp ng opportunity na kumita nang hindi kailangang gumastos ng malaki. It takes time talaga pero worth it yung learning.”

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    Want to gain the confidence in starting and growing your own business like Ruby and Bernadette? Enroll for free Negosyo Courses at www.waisuniversity.com to start your Wais journey to financial independence!

    REFERENCE:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Jollibee Group Foundation reinforces support to smallholder farmers throughagri-technology

    Jollibee Group Foundation reinforces support to smallholder farmers through
    agri-technology

    Together with local and international experts, Jollibee Group Foundation has been introducing technologically advanced farming techniques and systems to smallholder farmers to empower them to improve their productivity and gain more income.

    Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) continues to support smallholder farmers by providing them access to technologically advanced farming techniques for more sustainable agriculture.

    “Improving smallholder farmers’ knowledge and capacity for greater productivity and profit will redound to the continued growth of our agricultural sector,” said Gisela Tiongson, JGF Executive Director.

    Launched in 2008, JGF’s Farmers Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) empowers and helps smallholder farmers sharpen their technical and business acumen, as well as partnership-building skills. Today, these farmers supply the vegetable requirements used in some Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal favorites.

    “By becoming more adept and qualified to participate directly in the value chains of food companies, small producers get assured of a regular market, resulting in their increased and steady income,” Tiongson added. To reinforce support to smallholder farmers, JGF has adopted public-private partnerships to help farmers gain access to agricultural technologies that increase their yield, reduce farming costs, and make them more competitive in the market.

    Weather data, farmer efficiency

    Since 2020, the Foundation has partnered with IBM’s The Weather Company for a more accurate community-level, 7-day weather forecast. JGF also worked with the Central Luzon State University to interpret the weather data and translate it into the prescribed farm practice for the day. The information is then shared in a private messaging group for faster dissemination among the farmers. The SMS feature of this system is now being developed for easier access.

    The Onion and Vegetable Producers Cooperative (OVEPCO) farmers from Barangay Tabulac in San Jose City, Nueva Ecija were among the first to benefit from this system. Through the barangay-level forecasts provided, the farmers can adapt and better decide when to plant, fertilize, and harvest their crops.

    “It has been helpful. Now we can prepare for what will happen tomorrow. It has become a guide for our daily farming,” shared Eddie Soriano, OVEPCO Chairman.

    This project currently supports 116 farmers in 12 barangays in San Jose City, Nueva Ecija and Alcala, Pangasinan.

    Healthy soil, healthy production

    In partnership with the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management, JGF ventured into studying soil samples and providing practical recommendations to make the soil healthier and more viable for greater yield.

    To help farmers improve their crops, JGF worked with the PUM Netherlands Senior Experts, various seed companies, and Jollibee Group’s own Research and Development team to find appropriate onion and bell pepper varieties that will meet the company’s requirement, and which can be more easily produced by the farmers.

    Together with the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture, JGF is also looking into further increasing the productivity of onion farms. Called “Project SAYA” or Strengthening Agricultural Yield of Allium Cepa L. (Onion) in the Philippines, the project aims to help increase onion production by addressing inefficiencies, gaps, and factors affecting the level of production; as well as to identify potential and suitable areas for expansion.

    “These agri-technology efforts are creating a ripple effect of empowerment and opportunities among our partner farming communities and institutions. They have reported greater knowledge on farming techniques, increased yield and income, and the confidence to transact with market players,” said Tiongson. “JGF will sustain these efforts so that farmer entrepreneurs can continue to gain greater pride in their profession and to reap the benefits of sustainable agriculture.”

    REFERENCE:

    Lariza Garcia

  • Empowering through Education project to be launched in Cebu

    Empowering through Education project to be launched in Cebu

    The empowerment of the out-of-school youth in the Philippines got a shot in the arm with the conceptualization of an innovative mobile classroom project in Cebu.

    The project called the “Mobile KART Project” and proposed by SEED4COM got a further boost after it was declared as one of the Top Three winners at the “Taiwan Excellence: Sharing is Caring” philanthropic campaign that started last year. Winning the campaign means the opportunity to create more mobile classrooms that will benefit more out-of-school youth in many other areas in Cebu.

    The aim was noble: to assist Cebu’s youth, particularly from poor and marginalized families, and provide them with free access to education with diverse and free-of-charge training courses that will hopefully educate them even in the midst of a debilitating pandemic.

    The project will be officially inaugurated and launched on October 2022 at several locations in Cebu City such as Lapu-Lapu City, Cordoba, and Olango Island, among others. It would become doubly significant since the launch will coincide with the holding of the annual Taiwan-Philippines Joint Economic Conference.

    The innovative and creative Mobile KART is not just any mobile classroom. It comes equipped with solar panels, laptops, an LED TV display, audio system and even routers for mobile internet connectivity, and all are Taiwan Excellence Award-winning products.

    The Mobile KART Project offers courses such as “Transformative Educational Access for the Communities and Homes” and also “Technology Vocational Livelihood Skills Training.” These courses are meant to teach the poor youth in Cebu’s poverty-stricken areas with valuable life skills, particularly the benefits of reading. Hopefully, the skills will equip them with knowledge they can use to improve livelihood or pursue higher education when given the opportunity.

    The “Mobile KART Project” is a mobile classroom that originated in Cebu and was part of several initiatives related to education by Sustainable Energy and Enterprise Development for Communities or SEED4COM (https://www.seed4com.org/). The organization was established to help improve human conditions and empowering poverty-stricken areas, rural and last-mile communities in the Philippines.

    Truly, the “Mobile KART Project” winning at the “Taiwan Excellence: Sharing is Caring” was a proud moment not just for SEED4COM but also for the country, according to Dann Diez, Executive Director of SEED4COM, considering the huge number of entries.

    Organized by the Bureau of Foreign Trade (BOFT) and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the vision of “Taiwan Excellence: Sharing is Caring” was to help make society a better place by giving everyone an opportunity to raise ideas about charity and other altruistic activities related to the sustainable development of society and environmental protection by utilizing products of Taiwan Excellence.

    REFERENCE:

    Richard C. Mamuyac