Category: Press Release

  • Jollibee Group Named One of TIME’s ‘World’s Best Companies’ for the Second Time

    Jollibee Group Named One of TIME’s ‘World’s Best Companies’ for the Second Time

    Did you know that the Jollibee Group named as one of the “World’s Best Companies” of 2024?

    The Jollibee Group named as one of the “World’s Best Companies” for two consecutive years by the prestigious TIME Magazine.

    The Jollibee Group continues to strengthen its global standing after being included in TIME Magazine’s prestigious “World’s Best Companies” list for two consecutive years.

    “We are incredibly honored to be recognized once again on TIME’s World’s Best Companies List. This reaffirms our commitment to creating a workplace that fosters excellence and growing the business sustainably,” said Jollibee Group Global President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong. “This recognition belongs to our people who work hard to achieve our dreams. Together, we will continue to work with passion and purpose to bring the joy of eating to everyone. We also share this recognition with our franchisees and partners who have supported us through the years.”

    Key dimensions of the ranking

    According to the global data and business intelligence platform Statista, companies were assessed based on three key dimensions, namely employee satisfaction, revenue growth, and sustainability transparency or Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). The scores of all three dimensions were added on an equal percentage basis to form the final ranking score of a maximum of 100 points. The 1,000 companies with the highest score were awarded as the World’s Best Companies of 2024.

    The Jollibee Group received a score of 84.81 or “very high” mark for revenue growth. The Company’s net income rose 16% to PHP8.8 billion in 2023, while total revenues marked a 15.2% increase to PHP244.1 billion. Its systemwide sales hit PHP343.32 billion, an all-time high record with a 16.3% increase.

    The Jollibee Group’s strengthened People Agenda was key to its record business performance, which was characterized by back-to-back best-ever years in 2022 and 2023. The Company remains committed to fostering a workplace that prioritizes not only employee satisfaction and safety but also their development and well-being. Through its dedicated People Agenda, the Company ensures engagement at multiple levels, from personal to people around them and to the company and community.

    In 2023, the Jollibee Group launched its global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, anchored on three key pillars: Food, People, and Planet. Under the People pillar, Employee Welfare stands as a key priority, with a focus on enhancing lives through initiatives such as Learning & Development, Employee Engagement, and Diversity & Inclusion. These efforts are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), underscoring the Group’s broader mission to create positive and lasting change.

    Earlier this year, the Jollibee Group earned the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award for the third time, recognizing its high employee engagement and strong corporate culture. Notably, the Jollibee Group remains the only Philippine-based company to receive this prestigious distinction.

    Reference:

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • Get ready for a game changing premium running experience in the QC Eco-Run this November!

    Get ready for a game changing premium running experience in the QC Eco-Run this November!

    Who else wants to join the QC Eco-Run: Run Green, Breathe Clean? Runners, Fitness and Eco-Tourism advocates are thrilled to participate of the upcoming QC Eco-Run 2024.

    Runners get ready! Quezon City is changing the game with its upcoming 10k, 5k and 2k QC Eco Run! Be one of the lucky runners who will get to be part of a premium race experience while doing your part to help preserve the environment.

    Get the opportunity to experience running thru the Iconic Edsa-Quezon Ave Underpass whilst setting a new personal record along the straight road of Quezon Avenue. Partake the Clean Air Movement by planting the complimentary home garden seeds included in the race kit.

    For your 10k run entry, get a premium event shirt, timing chip, race bib, finisher medal plus amazing giveaways and a chance to win raffle prizes! Experience this premiere Eco event for another game changing reg fee of only P550 for the 10km Run , P350 for the 5km and just P250 for 2km event! Level up the fun with the FREE Dance Fitness Marathon!

    By uniting Fitness and Eco-Tourism initiatives, the QC Government creates a big impact in everyone’s day to day living. The QC Eco-Run sets the stage for a more active lifestyle for both fitness and run enthusiasts. 

     
    Happening on November 24, 2024 at the Quezon Memorial Circle, The QC Eco-Run highlights many first in the running community.

    The ceremonial tree planting activity will be celebrated at the La Mesa Ecopark on November 17, 2024, a week prior the QC Run to highlight this ecotourism campaign and initiative.

    To further encourage everyone to contribute environmentally, the complimentary home garden seeds can be used to start your very own Home Garden and contribute to a cleaner air.

    Furthermore, to abide by this environmental campaign, the use of reusable cups in lieu if disposable ones, will be implemented by our hydration partner.

    Following protocol, all promotional collaterals such as banners will also be recycled as Eco bags, in alignment with the QC Tarpcycling Program.

    The QC Eco-Run is presented by Globe Telecoms, Major sponsors – Ayala Land Estates, Vertis North and Manila Water.

    Event partners include Starbucks Philippines, Mc Donalds, Jollibee, Skeen Clinic, Gold Seas Tuna and GCashTo register, visit: https://sites.google.com/view/qcecorun

    Reference:

    Mr. Ralf Huertas

  • ‘Lady Wakanda’, two other Mindanao champs, eager to prove they belong in Rebisco Volleyball League National Finals

    ‘Lady Wakanda’, two other Mindanao champs, eager to prove they belong in Rebisco Volleyball League National Finals

    The teams, supporters and management of the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) are thrilled of the RVL National Finals that will be held on November 22 – 25, 2024 in Mandaluyong City.

    PROVINCIAL high school teams are set to unveil their own female superheroes as the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) awaits the arrival of the three Mindanao regional champions that have advanced to the National Finals which will be held in Mandaluyong from November 22 to 25.

    Sto. Niño National High School, Corpus Christi School, and Notre Dame of Dadiangas University emerged as the last teams standing in their respective regional finals of the biggest 18-and-under women’s volleyball tournament in the country that drew 480 schools from 10 regions this year.

    Corpus Christi School of Cagayan de Oro City swept Bukidnon National High School, 25-21, 25-14, for the Northern Mindanao championship, while General Santos City’s Notre Dame of Dadiangas University overcame St. Alexius College, 25-18, 26-28, 25-23, for the Central Mindanao title of this nationwide grassroots development tournament that’s now on its sixth year.

    But the spotlight is on Sto. Niño National High School, a public school team made up of indigenous people from Talaingod, Davao del Norte. Three of the team’s 12 players are from the Ata Manobo tribe.

    Dubbed the Lady Wakanda, the team is representing Southern Mindanao for the second straight year after ruling their regional cluster, initially topping the six-team pre-qualifying leg, before edging seven more squads in the regional finals.

    The ethnic team capped its regional campaign with a hard-fought 2519, 22-25, 27-25 win against Ateneo de Davao in the title match last month at the Davao del Norte Sports and Tourism Complex in Tagum City.

    The Lady Wakanda, a self-proclaimed moniker inspired by the brave people of the fictional ethnic African country – home of Marvel superhero Black Panther –showed their own version of resilience in the finale where they fought back after being on the verge of defeat in the deciding third set, 22-24.

    “Tulad (ng Wakanda people), yung team namin also represents the strength of the Lumads from the Lumad capital of Davao del Norte,” Sto. Niño coach Eric Fernandez said. “Matatapang at malalakas kasi mga taga-Wakanda at ‘yun din ang mantra na gusto naming taglayin ng team.”

    And The Lady Wakanda did it despite their size disadvantage – their tallest player is only 5’5” and smallest at 4’11”, according to Fernandez, making up for it with their athleticism and chemistry in the regional title game.

    RVL tournament director Johanz Buenvenida witnessed the dramatic ending to the title game as he estimated Ateneo’s average height to be 5’6” and attested to how Sto. Niño stood taller.

    “Dun nakita yung sinasabing big heart talaga,” Buenvenida said. “They may be lacking really in height, grabe as in talagang ang laki ng difference, ang liliit talaga nila. But yung vertical jump nila tsaka yung cohesiveness as a team are something to be proud of.”

    Sto. Niño has almost two more months to prepare before the National Finals where it will try to surpass its seventh-place finish last year. The Southern Mindanao champion is back in the thick of training, even holding twice-a-day practices on Saturdays when the student-volleybelles are off from school.

    Seven more teams are joining the three Mindanao champions in the National Finals next month. The three Visayas regional champions have also been declared: Linao National High School (Eastern), University of San Jose Recoletos (Central), and RVL defending champion

    Bacolod Tay Tung (Western), while the Luzon school spikers are still fighting for four spots on the 10-team National Finals cast.

    The National Finals preliminary and semifinal round matches will continue to follow best-of-three sets, while the bronze and gold-medal games will be played in best-of-five sets.

    “Dapat hindi kami matakot kahit ganito lang ang aming height,” said Sto. Niño open spiker Angel Pasaol, one of the three players with Ata Manobo blood. “Lalaban talaga kami at ipapakita namin ang aming best. I-prove namin na kaming taga-Mindanao ay hindi basta-basta.”

    “Gusto namin makilala ang aming tribo,” added setter Jemiemah Lintuan, another Ata Manobo tribe member.

    And the RVL won’t just put provincial teams on the map, it’s also a breeding ground for future college volleyball recruits.

    Cara Dayanan, one of Sto Niño’s key players last year, received an offer to play for Emilio Aguinaldo College and is set to suit up for the Lady Generals in the NCAA.

    That’s also the goal for Pasaol and Lintuan, among others.

    Pasaol is a graduating Grade 12 student whose dad is a farmer of bananas, corn, and vegetables, while her mom is an inspector of convenience store factories in Davao. Angel looks up to Creamline superstar Alyssa Valdez.

    Lintuan, on the other hand, is in Grade 8 and one of the team’s youngest players. Her dad is a Datu tribal mediator, while her mom is a housewife. Jemiemah idolizes another Cool Smashers star in Tots Carlos as well as former Creamline setter and current Japan V League import Jia de Guzman.

    “Malaking avenue talaga yung RVL para makita yung talent at skills ng mga bata,” said the 30-year-old Fernandez, himself a product of the Rebisco Volleyball Academy for coaches, a seminar conducted by veteran mentors to impart their knowledge to local counterparts.

    RVL commissioner Ysay Marasigan wants the 18-and-under women’s league to be in the same conversation as the Palarong Pambansa among the biggest grassroots volleyball programs in the Philippines.

    “Gusto ko for RVL, maging isa pang tournament together with Palaro na makaka-join talaga lahat ng teams, all the top teams in a certain city magsama-sama sila to compete,” said Marasigan, an Ateneo product who remains an active player as the current Criss Cross King Crunchers team captain.

    About Rebisco Volleyball:

    Republic Biscuit Corporation (Rebisco), through its sports marketing arm Action Republic Corporation, is dedicated to advancing volleyball in the Philippines. Through initiatives such as the Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) and Rebisco Volleyball Academy (RVA), Action Republic supports the development of the sport across all levels—from grassroots and high school to college, professional, and the national team.

    Since its establishment in 2009, RVL has served as a pivotal platform, offering young volleyball players opportunities for education and career advancement. Meanwhile, RVA focuses on nurturing volleyball coaches, playing a crucial role in the sport’s long-term growth in the country.

    Rebisco proudly sponsors several volleyball teams, including the Philippine National Women’s Team, the men’s and women’s Beach Volleyball Teams, the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) Blue Eagles (both men’s and women’s teams) via its Fudgee brand, and professional squads such as the Creamline Cool Smashers, Choco Mucho Flying Titans, and the Criss Cross King Crunchers.

    Through its strong support of volleyball, Rebisco embodies its commitment to giving back to the community, promoting teamwork, discipline, camaraderie, resilience, and optimism, while fostering both physical and mental well-being.

    Reference:

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration Continues, Empowering You to Embrace Your Glow

    NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration Continues, Empowering You to Embrace Your Glow

    Who else wants to join the NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration for a chance to win amazing prizes?

    Did you know that your trusted skin care partner, NIVEA, recently marked a significant milestone in its commitment to skin health and well-being by hosting a nationwide raffle? This initiative went beyond simply offering prizes; it was a celebration of care, connection, and the expert solutions NIVEA provides to help you feel your best.

    As a global leader in skincare, NIVEA is dedicated to delivering advanced skin solutions that empower individuals to embrace their own glow. With a focus on fostering community and well-being, NIVEA encourages you to connect with others and enjoy life to the fullest.

    The much-anticipated nationwide raffle is still ongoing, providing you with the opportunity to win exciting prizes! As NIVEA continues its mission to reward and celebrate loyal customers, each winner exemplifies the confidence that comes from caring for one’s skin.

    Join in for your chance to be one of the lucky winners! From October 10 to December 10, 2024, spend ₱500 on NIVEA products for your chance to win a dream trip to South Korea for two (2)!

    Unlock More Opportunities to Win with NIVEA

    NIVEA has even more thrilling opportunities for you to showcase your skincare passion and potentially score exclusive goodies—just share your NIVEA love on social media and you could be the next lucky winner.

    To enter, visit NIVEA’s official Instagram @nivea_ph and find the “Add Yours” template in the 10/10 IG story highlight. Click the “Add Yours” button to create a 30-second video showcasing your favorite NIVEA product and why it deserves a 10 out of 10. Tag NIVEA in your post and include the hashtag #10outof10fromNIVEA.

    By participating, you’ll have a chance to win exclusive NIVEA goodies like the NIVEA Intensive Moisture Body Milk, NIVEA Body Extra Bright Radiant & Smooth Lotion, NIVEA Extra Bright Super 10 Body Serum, and more.

    The NIVEA Pop-up Booth

    NIVEA recently brought its expert skincare advice with its exciting pop-up booths! Visitors enjoyed personalized skin consultations, product demonstrations, and exclusive offers. If you missed the event at SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa, you can still experience NIVEA’s 10 out of 10 care through online exclusive offers. A perfect chance to pamper your skin and discover your new favorite products!

    Join the NIVEA Squad

    Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the NIVEA family, this is your chance to experience 10 out of 10 care and win amazing prizes. Follow NIVEA on social media and visit their website to learn more about upcoming promos and the latest in skincare innovations. Let NIVEA’s expert care continue to be a part of your daily routine and your special moments.

    Together, let’s celebrate the power of feeling cared for!

    Reference:

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

  • MERALCO Restores Service to Customers in Areas Hit by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine

    MERALCO Restores Service to Customers in Areas Hit by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine

    October 28, 2024 – Meralco crews and personnel worked round the clock to restore service to over 566,000 customers that were affected by power interruptions amidst the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. As another weather disturbance enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility, Meralco assures its customers that it is monitoring the situation and is ready to respond 24/7 to service concerns that may arise from Tropical Storm Leon.

    For inquiries or concerns, Meralco is ready to serve you 24/7 via our online channels:

    Facebook Messenger: m.me/meralco

    X (Twitter): @meralco

    Or via SMS (TEXT ONLY):

    0925-771-6211 (Sun)

    0917-551-6211 (Globe)

    Reference:

    Mr. Richard Mamuyac

  • PBA Finals Game 1 Draws Massive Crowd

    PBA Finals Game 1 Draws Massive Crowd

    The much-anticipated PBA Governors’ Cup Finals between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and TNT Tropang Giga kicked off with a bang, drawing a massive crowd to the Ynares Center in Antipolo City. A total of 11,021 fans attended Game One of between Barangay Ginebra and TNT – the largest PBA crowd in the venue.

    The game, which saw TNT dominate Ginebra 104-88, was a testament to the league’s enduring popularity.

    PACKED TO THE RAFTERS

    The Ynares Center was filled to capacity, with fans from both teams creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere. The passionate crowd cheered on their respective teams, adding to the intensity of the game. The huge turnout underscored the intense rivalry between Ginebra and TNT, two of the most popular teams in the PBA.

    BARANGAY GINEBRA AND TNT TROBANG GIGA RIVALRY

    The high attendance for Game 1 is a promising sign for the rest of the series. With both teams boasting talented rosters and passionate fan bases, the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals is expected to be one of the most exciting and competitive series in recent years.

    The crowd attendance surpassed the previous high of 10,952 set on December 21, 2011 during a quarterfinal doubleheader between Barangay Ginebra and Rain or Shine, and Petron and Meralco during the 2011-12 Philippine Cup.

    Long time PBA fan Marlon Estrada who came with his wife Eloisa enjoyed the action-packed Game 1 even if his PBA team San Miguel Beer is not playing for contention. “Thankful ako kasi yung finals ng PBA nandito sa Ynares Center. Malapit sa amin sa Teresa and tamang-tama, Sunday ngayon kaya parang date na din namin. Masaya akong nakitang enjoy ang asawa ko kasi first time din nyang nakanood ng PBA” shared Estrada.

    Rizalenyos and PBA fans from nearby provinces and even cities braved the traffic going to the venue. The PBA Game 1 tickets between Barangay Ginebra and TNT Tropang Giga were selling like hot cakes and PBA fans can be seen entering the Ynares Center even after the start of the game.

    Incidentally, Game One was also for a cause as the PBA Board announced during a press conference in Taguig City that all Game 1 earnings will go to the calamity victims.

    Board chair Ricky Vargas of Meralco said all Game 1 earnings will be coursed by the PBA through the Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility organization of TV5 Network Inc.

    The 49th Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Governor’s Cup Finals Game 1 between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and TNT Tropang Giga was held on October 25 2024 at Ynares Center, Antipolo City.

    Reference:

    Ms. Lariza Garcia

    FBN

  • All-Angle Water-Resistant HONOR X7c,Splashing on November 6

    All-Angle Water-Resistant HONOR X7c,Splashing on November 6

    Are you ready for the newest viral smartphone of HONOR? Splashing on November 6!

    Manila, Philippines –The Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR Philippines, has officially announced on October 29, 2024, the arrival of HONOR X7c on November 6, 2024! The newest viral smartphone of HONOR with All-angle water-resistance has been driving a huge buzz online with its daring splash challenges. Catch the launch of HONOR X7c live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/X7cLaunch_PR.

    “We can’t wait to launch this smartphone. We have been known for our durable smartphones with viral drop and smash tests. Now, we are making noise with our water-resistant smartphone, HONOR X7c. Don’t you dare miss it and join us on November 6 as we launch this new HONOR device,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

    All-Angle Water Resistant for Everyday Confidence

    The HONOR X7c’s robust design is further enhanced by an IP64 rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes. Whether it’s accidental drops or exposure to environmental elements, the HONOR X7c is engineered to deliver superior protection, making it a reliable companion for users in various settings and situations.

    The HONOR X7c is also powered by an equally robust 6000mAh Super Durable Battery, designed to keep up with the demands of modern users. This high-capacity battery offers worry-free usage throughout the day, supporting up to 28.5 hours of online streaming or an impressive 21.5 hours of YouTube video playback.

    This new HONOR phone is equipped with a generous 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space for years of precious memories. Complementing this power efficiency is HONOR’s innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual).

    HONOR X7c is Splashing on November 6

    HONOR X7c is set to be launched on November 6. Catch it live on Facebook https://bit.ly/X7cLaunch_PR. For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

    Check out HONOR’s wide array of products on www.honor.com/ph and shop at any HONOR Experience and Partner stores or online via Lazada (bit.ly/HONORPHLaz), Shopee (bit.ly/HONORPHShpe)  and TikTok Shop (bit.ly/HONORPHTikTok).

    About HONOR 

    HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

    Reference & Media Contacts:

    Pao Oga 
    PR Manager 
    paoo_honor@prl.ph   09190016898 
    Denis Santos 
    PR Supervisor 
    deniss_honor@prl.ph  09171745327 
  • 𝟮𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 (𝗗𝗣𝗥𝗠) 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲:  Securing a Future for All by Growing a Resilient Middle Class

    𝟮𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 (𝗗𝗣𝗥𝗠) 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲: Securing a Future for All by Growing a Resilient Middle Class

    The 𝟮𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵 (𝗗𝗣𝗥𝗠) 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘂𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 was held on September 5, 2024, at Novotel Manila, Cubao, Quezon City, National Capital Region (NCR), Philippines. The theme, “Securing a Future for All by Growing a Resilient Middle Class,” is grounded on the Philippines’ AmBisyon Natin 2040, which envisions “a prosperous middle-class society where no one is poor.” It emphasizes the middle class’ quality of life and their role in promoting the country’s development, according to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), a nonstock, nonprofit government corporation engaged in the conduct of long-term policy-oriented research in the Philippines.

    Dr. Jose Ramon Albert, Dr. Roehlano Briones, and Dr. John Paolo Rivera are the DPRM 2024 Scientific Committee member and a panel experts from the National Economic and Development Authority, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines Office, and Asia Society Philippines.

    During the forum and press conference, PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. Jose Ramon Albert provided key insights from their study  “Wealth Creation for Expanding the Middle Class in the Philippines”. He described the middle-class household as typically comprising 3 to 4 members, with a monthly income between PHP 24,060 to PHP 144,360. Mr. Albert emphasized that this segment represented around 39.8% of the population in 2021 and plays a critical role in socioeconomic growth due to their access to higher education and income.

    However, Mr. Albert explained that many middle-class households have experienced job losses, reduced incomes, and increased expenditure on education and health. He warned that unless action is taken, these setbacks could hinder the middle class from fully contributing to inclusive growth. To address these concerns, the need for comprehensive strategy to not only expand the middle class but also make it resilient against global megatrends that can exacerbate existing inequalities, according to Mr. Albert.

    Dr. Jose Ramon Albert and co-authors PIDS Senior Research Fellows Dr. Roehlano Briones and Dr. John Paolo Rivera suggested a four-pronged approach to achieve a sustainable transformation. This includes promoting social justice in natural resource management and climate action, harnessing new opportunities in trade and investments for MSMEs, ensuring a future-ready workforce and social protection, and improving digital governance and public service delivery.

    Meanwhile, Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), who served as one of the forum’s discussants, identified key investment areas that can help fulfill the aspirations of the middle class.  These include housing and urban development, agriculture, manufacturing, connectivity, financial services, and tourism. “We must implement many more strategies so that they can better move up the social ladder,” she stated. Edillon also highlighted the importance of social protection to ensure the welfare and sustained growth of the middle class.

    In discussing the broader governance implications, Ms. Daniela Braun, Country Director of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, pointed out that good governance is essential in empowering the middle class. “Good governance is not only a worthy goal in itself, but also a means to achieve economic growth,” she said, contrasting the effects of corruption in poorly governed countries with the trust and investment spurred by good governance.

    The forum concluded with remarks from Atty. Marco Sardillo III, Executive Director of Asia Society Philippines, who underscored the apparent vulnerability of the middle class, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. “The assumption is that the oligarchs are invested in our politicians, and they look after the poor. It is the middle class that is left to their own devices,” Sardillo noted. He urged both the government and media to raise awareness on middle-class issues, as a more informed population is better equipped to engage in its own development. “If more of us were aware of what is at stake when we talk about the middle class, then maybe we’ll start taking these issues more seriously,” Sardillo said.

    Photo Credit: PIDS

    The DPRM is held every year in September to promote and draw nationwide awareness on the importance of policy research in formulating evidence-based plans, programs, and policies.

    Watch the recording of the kick-off forum here: https://bit.ly/dprmpresscon2024.

    Reference & Media Contact:

    Philippine Institute for Development Studies