KAIA continues to cement their status as one of the most sonically adventurous pop groups in the Philippines with the release of their new single, “Walang Biruan,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.
The iridescent, bubblegum-pop track boldly reassures one’s feelings without fear of judgment, channeling the playful side of young love. As KAIA explains it, “The song is about telling someone how much you like them in a sweet and honest way. It has a catchy tune and lighthearted vibe, making it easy to relate to and enjoy.”
Giving listeners a taste of summer with a fun, lightweight take, “Walang Biruan” embraces an effortlessly flawless sound with Y2K pop, Jersey club, and UKG influences. KINDRED’s Luis Montales and Kenneth Amores co-produced and co-wrote the track with the members of KAIA, motivating the Dalawa act to tap into their full potential as songwriters.
According to the five-member group, the initial stages of recording “Walang Biruan” entailed so much spontaneity that it enabled them to take charge of their creative pursuits and get more involved in the process.
“We spent a while on how we can arrange the song and make it more palatable to our audience,” shares KAIA. “Alexa took part in writing the rap verse, and the four of us, Charlotte, Sophia, Charice, and Angela, exchanged ideas on how we can make the song longer and more beautiful.”
The song will be released soon with a music video directed by Jonathan Tal Placido of Toothless. The MV conveys the material’s effervescent vibe while taking a tour of what happens inside a person’s mind during a pivotal moment of reawakening. It’s also shot entirely on an iPhone—a first among the P-Pop music scene.
KAIA reveals, “There are playful scenes showing how your imagination runs wild when you’re nervous, but once you finally confess, it’s like a huge weight is lifted. Suddenly, you feel free, at peace, and everything just feels brighter and more colorful.”
KAIA’s “Walang Biruan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Online food and grocery delivery platform foodpanda Philippines has teamed up with Antom, MobaPay, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) in a new partnership. This collaboration, facilitated by Antom, will allow GCash users to access exclusive MLBB and foodpanda vouchers and deals through A+ Rewards.
“This is the first time we’ve partnered with major industry players to offer unique benefits to Filipino consumers through A+ Rewards via GCash, enhancing both shopping and gaming experiences. As the ‘ber’ months arrive, bringing a season full of food, we’re excited to combine that with the love for gaming into one seamless experience,” said Amer Bakshi, foodpanda Philippines Director for Advertising and Partnerships.
The partnership also coincides with Mobile Legends’ 8th anniversary. During the promotional period, GCash users can enjoy discounts of up to 56% off on MLBB in-game skins and diamonds, along with savings of up to ₱100 on foodpanda delivery orders.
Antom highlighted that this collaboration reflects their commitment to empowering brands and users, creating growth opportunities for foodpanda and MLBB or MobaPay while providing exceptional value to GCash users.
Bakshi added that this landmark partnership signals a new era of digital collaboration in the Philippine market, demonstrating the potential for cross-industry partnerships to benefit both businesses and consumers.
Gushcloud Philippines talents (from left): JinHo Bae, Angelgrace America, Klea Pineda, Katrice Kierulf, Apple David, Kelly Cruz, and Pattie Paraiso
Gushcloud Philippines announces its new business model and a bolder list of exclusive and non-exclusive talents, content and media that they own and co-produce.
During their recently held Partner’s Appreciation Night, the local unit of Singapore-based Gushcloud International (a global creator and IP management and licensing company powered by AI) revealed that it is now a global creator and IP management company, from just being a talent agency since it started operations in 2016.
Not only does it scout talents and link them to brands, but it also grows them from the early stages of their career until they find their brand and niche in the ever demanding content creation industry.
“We are proud to share the changes and growth that our organization went through in just under a year with the new leadership. We have revamped our business model and signed more talents to show that we’re committed to our vision of creating tomorrow’s positive influence. We thank our talents and partners from brands, agencies, and media for their continued support,” says Ryan Marquez, General Manager of Gushcloud Philippines.
Additionally, Gushcloud also introduced its lineup of almost 50 local talents who are making waves on social media and mainstream channels.
Their exclusive talents from diverse fields include: gaming community personality and aspiring actress Pattie Paraiso; Korean singer/host/actor JinHo Bae; beauty/lifestyle creators Jillian Raine Saberon and Angelgrace America; fitness/lifestyle creator Keona Lozada; sportscaster Apple David; model/online personality Katrice Kierulf; lifestyle creator Denise Heredia; online “Peanut Butter Queen” Kelly Cruz; Japanese “Green Flag Guy” Rio Mizu; resident island girl Alecks Flores; actor/model Will Devaughn; resident KPop fangirls Tasha Mae Urquiola and Kaye Andres; the “Bunny of BGC” Vanessa Lavadia; and host/singer-songwriter Hannah Maxine Cruz.
Marquez also pointed out that Gushcloud’s vast connection with traditional management companies in the country enable them to link brands with practically any celebrity of their choice, via the agency’s brokerage service expertise.
Gushcloud Philippines leaders (from left): Migs Felizardo (Head of Talents), Ryan Marquez (Managing Director), Ross Manicad (Head of Corporate Communications), Darlene Malimas (Head of Global IP and Content), Cha Javier (Social Media Manager), and Max Webb (Head of Sales)
The agency counts non-exclusive talents that include actress/host Camille Prats-Yambao; lifestyle creator Kevin Ty; comedian/in-demand wedding host Eri Neeman; and beauty queen Emmanuelle Vera.
On top of talent bookings and management business, Gushcloud Philippines is also an active owner, co-developer, and producer of exciting IPs (intellectual properties) and multimedia content. As shared by Darlene Malimas, Gushcloud’s Head of Global IP and Content, Gushcloud Philippines will sign as part of the producing team for the movie “Lihim Na Luha” (“Secret Cries”) featuring Jericho Rosales. Currently in development, it is one of the movie projects accepted at QCinema Project Market which connects filmmakers with international partners and offers grants and prizes.
On social media, Gushcloud Philippines is currently boosting content production for its own IPs such as Best of Manila (an events and pop culture directory in the Metro) and MomCenter (online group and community for mothers and parents).
In just under a year with its new leadership, the 10-strong Philippine office has achieved a 243% increase in revenue from January to June 2024 compared to the same period last year. It is now one of Gushcloud’s fastest-growing Southeast Asian markets.
For decades, Jack Daniel’s Philippines has supported the growth of the local indie music community and the next generation of future music greats through its music program. Now, everything is set for its most anticipated comeback.
The No. 1 US whiskey brand (IWSR, 2024) returns with Jack Daniel’s On Stage 2024 (JDOS) in the Philippines, championing the movers and shakers of the Philippine independent music scene by providing an avenue for bands to showcase their artistry and musicality. Through the series of live performances and media opportunities, the program paves the way for them to step onto a much bigger stage and much wider audience.
“Music has always been part of Jack Daniel’s DNA,” shares Gabriel Fajardo, the Brand Manager of Jack Daniel’s Emerging Asia. “It is through music that the brand has solidified its place in culture and how many people have connected with Jack over the years.”
Built on the values of promoting community-building and inclusivity through live music, JDOS empowers musicians to express their genuine selves through their performances. Through this, Jack Daniel’s and its partners inspire these aspiring artists to elevate their craft and propel them further into a professional career in the music industry—be it here or abroad.
This year, JDOS partners with emerging and recurring production partners who have earned a reputation for strengthening indie music communities through their uncompromising curation and distinct voice. The partners invaluable experience and expertise in harnessing the untapped potential of artists in live performances, adds credibility to the JDOS program. The production groups that were heavily involved in creating a lineup that cuts across all musical tastes include GNN (Gabi Na Naman Productions), Locked Down Entertainment, Doc Def Productions, SYQL, The Flying Lugaw, Otelik Presents, and Funky Beat Entertainment.
JDOS will showcase the diversity and richness of the local music scene with live event stages in key outlets in Metro Manila. The production partners, together with Jack Daniel’s, will organize music events in various venues featuring this year’s amazing roster of independent artists.
As Gabe puts it, “We want to give the up-and-coming artists the avenue to feel the adrenaline of the live stages, of putting themselves out there for everyone to listen and watch. As we’ve said, we want their stories to be heard by people and to give them the opportunity to share their music boldly to the world through Jack Daniel’s On Stage.”
Check out the schedule of JDOS Playlist LIVE:
Oct 18 – Locked Down Entertainment
Nov 9 – Funkybeat Entertainment
Nov 16 – Doc Def Productions
Nov 23 – The Flying Lugaw
Nov 29 – GNN
Dec 6 – Otelik presents
Dec 7 – SYQL
Jack Up The Volume Promo
Jack Daniel’s On Stage is only one part of Jack Daniel’s music campaign this year. Alongside JDOS, we also have the Jack Up The Volume National Consumer Promotion, which gives people the chance to experience music on an entirely new level. Two grand prize winners will be flown to one of the biggest music festivals in Japan. While others will get a chance to win other rockin’ prizes like laptops, tablets, premium headphones, electric guitars, and vinyl players. To top it off, there will be winners of bottles from the Jack Daniel’s Family of brands too!
For more information, check out Jack Daniel’sFacebook and Instagram pages.
JDOS 2024 is presented by Jack Daniel’s Philippines, with launch venue partner Hard Rock Cafe Manila, in partnership with BILLBOARD PH (official music media partner) and JB Music (official backline partner).
Manila, Philippines — Awooo! Calling all Wolfies of Bacolod! Big Bad Wolf is packing up and leaving town in a few days, so run now and get ready for one last feast at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod until September 29, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Don’t miss the chance to fill up on amazing finds and great deals!
Still on our spread are unbelievable discounts and special promos that you just can’t pass up! Over two million titles are still at 95% off, and attendees who will participate in Wolfie’s Challenge of the Day get a chance to win a P500 Book Voucher. What’s more is that Metrobank credit cardholders can take advantage of a 3-month 0% installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000, as well as a free 1-pc Chicken McDo meal for purchases of the same minimum amount. Returning Wolfies can still get a 5% discount on purchases when they bring their old Big Bad Wolf tote bag from last year. Plus, there’s a chance to win over P50,000 worth of furnishings from Swedish furnishing brand IKEA.
If you think that’s all, you’re wrong! Big Bad Wolf also has a special treat that is exclusively for students and teachers! Registered Big Bad Wolf members who are part of the academe get 5% off on English books when they wear their uniform or present their school ID at the cashier. No minimum spend needed. Details of the promo will be released on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages, so keep an eye out!
Adding to the excitement are limited edition tote bags that you can get only until the last day of the Bacolod book sale, September 29. Grab one for yourself, bring along a friend, and check out the other awesome merch too!
Are you searching for something that will renew your zest for life? Perhaps a guide to finding “the one”? Or maybe a storybook that will take the young ones on an incredible adventure? All these and more are treasures waiting for you. But wait! While you’re at it, you can share your well-loved treasures with someone else too. Donate a book or two at the Book Sale! Books will be donated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for a farther reach to different communities.
In the spirit of giving, let’s not forget that it’s “-ber” season already and the holidays are fast approaching! Kick off your holiday gift shopping at the Big Bad Wolf Bacolod Book Sale! With amazing deals and a wide selection, you’re sure to bring home a perfect book for you.
No, we’re not crying “wolf” with our deals and discounts, but you’re a Wolfie who might just cry if you miss the last few days of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. Hurry now because the books and the goods are hot and ready for the taking. Explore genres, hunt down the titles on your wishlist, and make the most out of our deals before they’re all gobbled up!
What are you waiting for? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod, happening until September 29. Doors open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Gather your pack and catch the Big Bad Wolf before it goes! We’ll see you there!
For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)
Bulakenyos definitely have all the reasons to celebrate as SM City Baliwag throws the biggest Singkaban Festival Sale, happening on September 27, 28, 29, and 30.
Shop loud and proud, as the Singkaban Festival Sale provides discounts of up to 70%. Enjoy price slashes on countless items mall-wide while checking out the latest finds from major retailers such as the SM Store, SM Hypermarket, Ace Hardware, Watsons, SM Appliance Center, Surplus, Miniso, and Uniqlo.
While shopping, also check out awesome dining deals at affordable prices from selected food tenants at the mall.
Cheers to a meaningful celebration and snip hunt only at SM City Baliwag’s Singkaban Festival Sale on September 27, 28, 29, and 30. For mall events and updates, follow SM City Baliwag on Facebook and Instagram.
Until December 31, get free GFiber Prepaid installation worth Php1,499 with every purchase of a Samsung SmartTV
(L-R) Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO) D2C and B2B Sales Head Jayson Dalino, SEPCO Head of Product Marketing Mahir Al-Rubah, SEPCO Head of AV Chris Almazan, Senior Advisor for Globe’s Broadband Business Danny Theseira, Vice President and Head of Brand Management for Globe’s Broadband Management Head Abigail Cardino, and Senior Director for Globe’s Broadband Channels Partnership Hans Conti officially sign the partnership agreement, marking a new chapter of collaboration between Globe At Home and Samsung.
Globe At Home and the undisputed Global No. 1 TV and Soundbar brand, Samsung, have joined forces in a first-of-its-kind offer sure to give Filipinos an upscaled home entertainment experience.
With every purchase of a Samsung Smart TV, customers will get a free GFiber Prepaid installation worth Php 1,499. This exclusive offer is available at select authorized Samsung dealers until December 31, 2024.
With Samsung’s cutting-edge AI TV technology, powered by Globe’s reliable and consistent GFiber Prepaid, the industry leaders commit to deliver a seamless viewing experience. This allows customers to enjoy a world of endless content, immediately after setting up their TV without the hassle of arranging internet service separately.
Samsung’s Super Big TVs, the 85″ Crystal UHD 4K DU7000 Smart TV, 98″ Crystal UHD 4K DU9000 Smart TV, and 75″ Crystal UHD 4K DU7000 Smart TV, made their debut, creating buzz ahead of their October launch.
Samsung TVs are renowned for their advanced features, superior picture and sound quality, making the brand a top choice for home entertainment. This reputation is further reinforced by Samsung’s long-standing commitment to durability, security, connectivity, and excellence in technology.
Meanwhile, GFiber Prepaid offers reloadable UNLI internet connection, providing customers reliable internet connection at speeds of up to 50 Mbps with no lockups. GFiber Prepaid is designed to be as flexible as it is reliable, with pay-per-use options and a 24-hour installation guarantee, making it an ideal choice for households seeking convenience and quality.
“Our strategic partnership with Samsung reflects our commitment to providing innovative solutions that address the needs of modern Filipino households,” said Abigail Cardino, VP and Head of Brand Management for Globe’s Broadband Business.
“With free GFiber Prepaid installation, we’re not only delivering a dependable internet connection but also ensuring that our customers can fully enjoy the best in entertainment technology,” she added.
Samsung’s vision is to provide customers a new and exciting way to upscale their home entertainment with AI technology, according to Samsung Electronics Philippines Head of AV Chris Almazan. “As the Global #1 TV and Soundbar brand for 18 and 10 years respectively, it is our tradition of innovation that enables us to provide a best-in-class experience for our users consistently. And with this partnership with Globe at Home, we are excited to be part of even more Filipino households with an offer that will truly upscale their home entertainment experience.”
With this limited-time promotion, customers can take advantage of the best in TV technology alongside a dependable internet connection, ensuring a superior viewing experience from day one.
Visit the nearest authorized Samsung dealer to make the most of this exclusive deal.
HUAWEI has launched its latest innovation in wearable technology, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series, now available for pre-order.
With its sophisticated design and advanced capabilities, the latest smartwatch lineup from HUAWEI is bringing the future of wearable tech right to users’ wrist. Pre-order period for the all-new HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and the HUAWEI Watch Ultimate begins September 26 to October 3, 2024.
Elegant Design in Sizes That Fit Everyone
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series revives the octagonal watch face with a modern design featuring sharp, reflective angles. The lightweight ceramic construction ensures comfort without compromising on toughness. The WATCH GT 5 Pro 46mm incorporates sapphire glass, titanium alloy, and ceramic for a luxurious yet durable feel, while the 42mm model features a thin nanocrystal ceramic body with gold accents. Both models come with vivid AMOLED displays—1.43-inch for the 46mm and 1.32-inch for the 41mm and 42mm. Adding to the 30,000 watch faces available, HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Pro features 13 new vibrant watch faces. Users can choose among a variety of straps available: black fluoroelastomer, blue fluoroelastomer, blue woven, brown woven, white ceramic, white leather or titanium.
Move Smarter with Upgraded Sports and Fitness Features
The WATCH GT 5 Series boasts advanced fitness tracking features like running form analysis and trail running functions. The AI-powered “Running Coach” offers real-time metrics and insights to improve performance and minimize injuries, catering to runners at all levels. Trail runners benefit from offline maps, route previews, and real-time navigation. The watch also includes safety features like route reminders should runners start running off-track.
With 40 meters of water resistance and a dedicated freediving mode, the WATCH GT 5 is tested to diving standards for user safety.
For cyclists, the watch syncs with the HUAWEI Health App to turn the phone into a cycling computer. It tracks real-time location, heart rate, calories, and more. The watch supports full-color cycling maps, track return functions, and external power meters for detailed data on cycling efficiency. After each ride, the app provides detailed post-ride analyses of performance, helping users optimize their training and progress.
Swing Like a Pro with Advanced Capabilities
For golf enthusiasts, the smartwatch now features “golf mode,” which features over 15,000 tier-1 courses across the globe, including more than 100 golf courses in the Philippines. Upgraded with 3D Course Effects, it provides a detailed view of the course. Along with real-time distance measurements, these features offer golfers a more precise shot planning experience. The “Green View” provides a reference line for better navigation and strategic play.
The smartwatch also includes a “Practice Mode,” helping users fine-tune their swings and track their swing performance, making it a valuable tool for golfers at any skill level. These features enhance course navigation, strategy, and overall golfing experience.
Advanced Health and Wellness Monitoring
Earlier this year, HUAWEI introduced its innovative HUAWEI TruSense System. This technology, featured on the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series, enables HUAWEI smartwatches to offer precise health and fitness tracking. The device also comes with the HUAWEI Sunflower Positioning System, which improves positioning accuracy with an adaptive software algorithm satellite signal tracking, improving users’ outdoor experience.
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series introduces various improved health-tracking features. Users can now stay on top of their heart health as the latest HUAWEI smartwatch incorporates vital signs monitoring including ECG, blood pressure, SpO2 (blood oxygen saturation), and heart rate. The watch also offers improved respiratory rate, and body temperature tracking, which may come in handy for day to day health monitoring.
As HUAWEI continues to push the boundaries of innovation, it also seeks to advocate for a more holistic approach to health and wellness. The smartwatch also introduces the Emotional Wellbeing Assistant. This feature enables users to monitor their emotional states, tracking emotional changes by analyzing physiological indicators such as heart rate variability. The device provides long-term emotional data, helping users have a better grasp of their emotions and suggesting lifestyle adjustments to improve their emotional states. The watch includes an interactive Pet Panda face that reflects the user’s mood through animated expressions. The panda mirrors the user’s emotional state, adding a playful and personalized touch to the device.
The WATCH GT 5 Series incorporates Pulse Wave Arrhythmia Analysis to detect irregular heartbeats and ECG Readings for real-time heart data with a press of a button. Additionally, the Sleep Breathing Awareness feature monitors sleep quality and detects potential breathing issues like Sleep Apnea. Users can then review their sleep patterns on the HUAWEI Health App, allowing them to understand and improve their sleep quality.
Convenient, Intelligent, and Long-Lasting Experience
There’s more: the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series is looking to offer a more convenient smartwatch
experience as it plans to integrate the country’s first-ever GCash payment feature via QR on a wearable device this Q4 of 2024! Whether users are grabbing a coffee or shopping for groceries, now they can make secure, contactless payments directly from their wrist. It also supports NFC-enabled door access, speech-to-text input, a virtual keyboard experience with full Tagalog support for enhanced convenience.
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series is built to keep up with users’ busy day. With just a quick 1-hour charge provides enough power for up to 14 days with the 46mm sizes. Meanwhile, the battery on the 41mm and 42mm supports up to 7 days of use.
Discover the “Ultimate” Partner on the Course
The newest edition of the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate is available for pre-order from September 26 to October 3. designed for users seeking a luxurious smartwatch with advanced Golf Course features including plays-like distance, shot distance, and AI Caddies, as well as an enhanced Expedition mode with Route Import. The watch also supports up to 100m water resistance, making it the ideal scuba diving companion. The watch features a striking dual-tone ceramic bezel in green and white. With its sleek, sporty design, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate is perfect for both golfing and formal occasions.
Secure your HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate Today!
Pre-order the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and get a bundle including a pair of HUAWEI FreeBuds 5i worth PHP 3,599 on Shopee, Lazada, Tiktok, HUAWEI Online Store and HUAWEI Experience Stores.
You can also still avail our early bird promo. Deposit P1000 via HUAWEI Online Store, you get a one-year warranty extension on your unit and P2000 token in return. While on Lazada, Shopee and TikTok you can get a P1000 voucher.
If you’re looking to purchase your device through staggered payments, take advantage of ShopeePay Later or LazPay Later and enjoy 0% interest for up to 6 months. In our offline stores, you can also avail a special 0% installment promo of up to 18 months for Home Credit purchases and up to 24 months for credit card purchases. Should you want to trade-in your old device, you can participate in HUAWEI’s trade-in promo where you can get a PHP 2,000 trade-in token at select HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.
The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate in Green is also available for pre-order for P45,999. Secure the exclusive pre-order bundle with the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 3 worth PHP 10,999, a one-year warranty extension and a two-year (APAC) regional Accidental Damage Protection Service, with up to two claims, on top of that. Purchases through the HUAWEI Experience Stores get to trade in their device and get a token worth P4,000. Avail a special 0% installment promo of up to 24 months for credit card purchases and up to 18 months for Home Credit purchases. These exclusive pre-order offers are available starting September 26 to October 3, 2024.
Nagbalaye Women’s Association (NAWA) members with Silliman University project coordinator and professor emeritus of the institute of environmental and marine sciences (IEMS) Dr. Hilconida P. Calumpong (7th from left) and SU-GXI Reforestation in South Negros Project blue carbon specialist Dr. Pablina L. Cadiz (4th from left)
Reforestation project enhances Negros Oriental’s ecosystems and local communities’ resilience
GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app and cashless ecosystem, has partnered with Silliman University for a reforestation project in South Negros. The SU-GCash Reforestation in South Negros Project, is part of a larger environmental initiative in Negros Oriental. The partnership between the two organizations began in May 2023, marking a joint commitment to plant 500,000 trees in the province to fight climate change and support biodiversity conservation.
Led by Dr. Hilconida P. Calumpong, project coordinator and professor emeritus of the Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences (IEMS) of Silliman University, the project involved sixteen partner people’s organizations, three from the municipality of Zamboanguita, four from the municipality of Siaton, five from the municipality of Sta Catalina, one from Bayawan City and three from the municipality of Basay. Four of these POs have members that are all women.
The tree planting initiative spans thirteen barangays from Zamboanguita to Basay. This widespread effort aims to restore mangrove and beach forest ecosystems, which are crucial for environmental sustainability and local livelihoods.
Over the past year, the project has successfully planted more than 132,000 seedlings, composed of 22 species, 15 of which are mangroves and 7 of which are beach forest. Among the most abundant species planted were Bakhaw-bato (Rhizophora stylosa), Lapis-lapis (Ceriops decandra), Piapi (Avicennia marina), Balokbalok (Pongamia pinnata), Bitaog (Callophylum inophylum) and Dungon (Heritiera littoralis).
In June of this year, the first seven POs that were able to plant were awarded certificates of tree planting. These were Latason-Cabcab Fishermen’s Association (LACABFA), Si-it Bay Fisherfolk Organization (SBFA), Fatima Women’s Association (FWA), Nagbalaye Women’s Association (NAWA), Women’s Guba-Pasil Association (WGPA), Caranoche Mangrove Community Association (CMCA), and Cot-cot Trawlers Fisher’s Association (CTFA), with each group playing a vital role in promoting sustainable practices and supporting local ecosystems.
“The island of Negros is among the most biodiverse spots in the country, and we recognize the efforts that have been put in place to mainstream biodiversity conservation. GForest’s efforts are aligned with all these initiatives. Our efforts focus on restoring mangroves and protecting coastal communities, which ultimately benefit the environment and create a sense of security for the communities,” stated GCash sustainability head CJ Alegre.
“Our partnership with GCash, through GForest, has allowed us to engage with various communities and people’s organizations, all of whom have an important role to play in protecting our environment and ensuring that our coastal ecosystems can continually provide us with goods and services,” stated Dr. Calumpong, who distributed tree planting certificates to the organizations involved, together with Dr. Pablina L. Cadiz, a blue carbon specialist and a faculty member of IEMS.
This project marks the fruitful start to the GCash-Silliman University partnership, with both organizations committing to plant half a million mangrove and beach forest species across five municipalities in South Negros.
A 2019 study led by ETH-Zurich in Switzerland found that the planet’s ecosystems could support another 900 million hectares of forests, which could capture 205 gigatons of carbon, cutting atmospheric carbon by one-fourth—underscoring the importance of tree-planting as part of efforts to attain carbon neutrality.
GForest was started in the same year to make it easier for GCash users to contribute to tree-planting efforts. Through digital transactions, GCash users are able to reduce their carbon footprint and collect energy points that can be used to plant virtual trees. GCash and its partners then plant actual trees that correspond to the virtual trees that users planted. GForest has since grown into a digital eco-movement that also spans agroforestry efforts to help boost the livelihood of farmers in various local communities throughout the Philippines.
At present, over 2.8 million trees of various species have been planted throughout the Philippines, including native trees, mangroves, and fruit-bearing trees. GCash collaborates with environmental experts to determine ideal species to be planted in an area and to ensure that planted seedlings have high survivability rates. Moreover, all harvests from trees go to the respective communities, booting livelihoods and small businesses.
GCash is also cognizant of September 21 as Zero Emissions Day and reaffirms its commitment on climate action.
SM Supermalls is hosting the largest spelling bee in the Philippines, aiming to boost literacy and support young Filipinos by revitalizing their love for spelling. Free registration is open today until October 11, 2024 to kids aged 9 to 11 in Grades 4 to 6. Preliminary rounds take place on September 27, October 4, and October 11 at 40 SM Supermalls nationwide.
Parents or guardians of interested children can pre-register for the competition via the SM Malls Online app. Simply look for the SM Super Spelling Bee application form and course your registration through the app. Guardians can also pre-register in-person at the Mall Administration Office of their chosen participating SM Supermalls branch.
Teachers and educators may register their students given that the forms are duly signed by the student’s parent or guardian before submission.
To complete registration requirements, make sure to present an original copy and photocopy of the participating child’s valid school ID, either during the elimination proper for online applications, or during the in-person submission at the Mall Administration Office.
Walk-in registrations will also be accepted on the days of the elimination round but take note that the cutoff for these on-the-spot registrations closes at 12 noon.
The top contestants will advance to the Grand Finals at SM Mall of Asia, where they can win exciting prizes. Elimination round winners will receive over Php 20,000 worth of prizes from SM Supermalls, Jollibee, and National Book Store while the Grand Winner’s prize includes up to Php50,000 in cash and SM Gift Certificates, Php150,000 in National Book Store Gift Certificates, Php10,000 in Jollibee Gift Certificates, a new laptop from Power Mac Center, and discounts on school tuition from the National University (NU).
“We at SM continue to believe that the youth of today are brilliant, bright, and capable of great things,” said SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Special Events and Tenant Marketing, Hanna Carinna Sy. “Our hope is that the Super Spelling Bee is just one of many avenues for young students to display and hone their skills, and show the world exactly what they are made of.”
Pre-register now and show off your spelling prowess! For more information, visit smsupermalls.com/superspellingbee/ or follow SM Supermalls on Facebook.
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