FEATURES

MARIVELES, Bataan – As part of the global initiative to protect and clean up our oceans, GNPower Mariveles Energy Center Ltd. Co. (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) joined the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) 2024. Together, the companies collected over 500 kilograms of trash, demonstrating their commitment to environmental stewardship.

GNPD participated in the cleanup activity with the municipality of Mariveles on September 21, 2024. More than 20 volunteers from the company and college scholars cleaned up coastal areas, removing approximately 100 kilograms of trash.

GNPD’s Reputation and Stakeholder Management Superintendent (RSM) Joseph Paolo Mendoza, highlighted the urgent need to address plastic pollution. “Our P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S. framework, beginning with Protect Marine Life, is a roadmap for a cleaner future,” he said. “The successful cleanup program showcases the positive impact of teamwork in combating plastic waste. I encourage everyone to take action by reducing their plastic use and disposing of waste responsibly.”

Meanwhile, GMEC organized a coastal cleanup along Aguawan Beach in Barangay Sisiman, Mariveles. A total of 40 volunteers from GMEC, the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, and the community gathered 36 sacks of garbage, weighing 260 kilograms.

Additionally, GMEC conducted a separate  cleanup activity along the plant’s shoreline, removing over 200 kilograms of garbage.

GMEC and GNPD’s involvement in the ICC aligns with their corporate values and environmental responsibility. Their flagship program, P.R.O.G.R.E.S.S., focuses on protecting marine life, reforesting lands, and optimizing waste management.

MPT South forecasts more than 30% traffic growth by the end of 2025, translating to over 340,000 average daily motorists, a significant increase from the current figure of 259,815. This growth will be driven by the completion of several key segments of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) and CAVITEX C5 Link. These segments include the CALAX Governor’s Drive Interchange, Open Canal Interchange, and Kawit Interchange, as well as the C5 Link Segment 3B, which will connect the current Sucat Interchange to the C5 Link Flyover Extension, spanning from SLEX-Taguig to E. Rodriguez in C5. The CAVITEX-CALAX Link, currently under construction, will integrate these two major toll roads, creating a more seamless connection for motorists.

These projects are slated for commercial operations before the end of 2025, bringing MPT South’s total road network to 67 km. The new segments, designed to enhance travel time and accessibility, are expected to encourage more motorists to utilize the network, further boosting traffic flow in the region. This will improve connectivity and travel efficiency between major provinces in Southern Luzon, easing travel for daily commuters and businesses alike.

“Aside from providing an enhanced driving experience for our motorists, our projects also aim to contribute to the region’s economic development by improving accessibility and connectivity.  Once completed, our expressway network will provide a more seamless travel experience for over 340,000 motorists, a 30% increase from our existing daily traffic, and help spur economic growth in both regions,” said MPT South President and General Manager, Mr. Raul L. Ignacio.

In line with this, MPT South is allocating Php14 billion in capital expenditures (CAPEX) in 2025 to support the construction and maintenance of its infrastructure.

“Despite the challenges we face in construction, such as the timely delivery of right-of-way and the recent typhoons, we are working around the clock to ensure the delivery of these vital infrastructure projects for the benefit of progress by the end of 2025,” Ignacio added.

Upon completion, MPT South’s expressway network is expected to boost regional economic growth by facilitating quicker, more efficient movement of goods and services between key industrial and commercial hubs. The shortened travel time will provide additional benefits such as reduced fuel consumption and lower vehicle emissions, contributing to nation-building and improving the quality of life for Filipinos.

About MPT South

MPT South is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the infrastructure arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation. In addition to CAVITEX and CALAX, MPTC also holds concession rights for North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), NLEX Connector Road, and Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu.

At this year’s Made For YouTube event in New York, YouTube announced a suite of new AI-powered tools designed to help creators unlock their full potential and achieve their creation goals.

With the dynamic and transformative power of generative AI, YouTube’s new tools aim to provide creators different ways to add creative visual and audio elements to their content that may not have been easily accessible before.

Here’s what YouTube announced at the event:

●        Expanded YouTube Shopping: The YouTube Shopping affiliate program is expanding to Indonesia, enabling creators to monetize their content and grow their businesses. Soon, this will launch in Thailand and Vietnam!

●        Dream Screen Evolution: The popular Dream Screen feature will be enhanced with Google DeepMind’s Veo model, allowing creators to generate even more realistic and imaginative video backgrounds.

●        AI-Powered Video Generation: Creators can now generate standalone six-second video clips using Veo, providing a seamless way to complete their content.

●        Enhanced Inspiration Tab: A revamped Inspiration Tab in YouTube Studio will offer AI-generated suggestions for video ideas, titles, thumbnails, and outlines.

●        Deepening Fan Connections: YouTube is introducing Communities, a dedicated space for creators to foster stronger bonds with their most loyal fans.

●        Rising Star Recognition: The Hype feature will allow fans to support emerging creators and help them reach wider audiences.

●        Global Reach with Automatic Dubbing: Creators can now generate translated audio tracks for their videos in multiple languages, expanding their reach to a global audience.

●        Enhanced Monetization Opportunities: YouTube is introducing gifts, powered by Jewels, to provide creators with new ways to earn and engage with their fans.

●        Improved TV Experience: YouTube is introducing new features for TV viewers, including organized seasons and episodes, immersive content, and streamlined subscription options.

Creators will be able to use these new tools and make their video content even better on YouTube as they roll out soon.

Start creating or streaming video content now on YouTube.

Showcasing the transformative potential of human-AI partnership, Google and Commune Cafe have teamed up to brew something that’s absolutely delicious and uniquely Pinoy at the same time.

From September 12 to 26, 2024, Commune will be serving the Filipino-flavored Special Bibingka Latte, a limited-edition coffee blend that’s created in collaboration with Gemini, Google’s generative AI.

The Special Bibingka Latte is heavily inspired by the flavors of the iconic Filipino delicacy, which is popular during the country’s extended Christmas season which anecdotally starts in September, the year’s first -ber month. The drink is comprised of Commune’s espresso and steamed milk, topped by savory shreds of salted egg and queso de bola to evoke the familiar feels of the holiday kakanin. Finally, the Latte is then rounded out by a torched banana leaf to complete the Pinoy experience.

To craft this unique drink, Commune used the power of Google’s Gemini, a helpful generative AI designed to enhance people’s capabilities to think, create, and work. Gemini presented an array of innovative drink concepts, serving as a springboard for Commune’s talented baristas to develop their own masterpiece.

As part of the partnership, Google provided training on generative AI and Gemini to Commune Cafe staff, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to effectively harness Gemini. Following the training, the staff participated in a mini-workshop, where they were divided into groups and competed to put their knowledge into practice and explore the creative possibilities of Gemini within the cafe setting.

“Using Gemini for experimenting with concoctions was a lot of fun! It felt like having an extra brain in the room, ready to toss ideas around. It also streamlined our creative process significantly. Having access to Gemini’s vast knowledge made the whole process enjoyable and collaborative.” said Rosario “Ros” Juan, Chief Extractor of Coffee at Commune Cafe.

“We’re so excited to partner with Commune and bring the Special Bibingka Latte to coffee lovers across the city! This project is a celebration of the delicious possibilities that arise when human creativity and AI blend together. It’s also a tribute to the spirit of Filipino Christmas and the unique flavors of our local delicacies, like Bibingka, which we’re immensely proud to share with the world,” said Mervin Wenke, Head of Communications and Public Affairs at Google Philippines.

Located at the bustling neighborhood of Poblacion, Makati, Commune is renowned for its high-quality coffee that’s fully sourced from the Philippines and inviting cafe atmosphere. The Gemini-inspired Special Bibingka Latte will be available for a very limited time only, so if you’re a coffee enthusiast, visit the cafe and experience this delicious creation from September 12 to 26, 2024.

For every other creative and productive endeavor, Gemini is here to help with its impressive capabilities. Try it out now and see what it can help you come up with at gemini.google.com.

Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South), in partnership the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region IV-A (CALABARZON) and Provincial Government of Cavite, held a successful Biyaheng South Experiential Tour 2024.

This year’s Experiential Tour was proudly co-presented by Taal Vista Hotel and DongFeng Motors PH, with generous sponsorship from World Balance, Sky Ranch Philippines, and Suteki Japanese Restaurant.

Our Ka-biyaheros—compromising a diverse group of influencers and media partners—went on exciting adventure to explore and experience the hidden treasures of South Luzon.

Day 1: Exploring the Rich History of Silang ang Tagaytay

The tour started with a visit to the MPT South Hub, the sustainable headquarter of CAVITEX and CALAX that is awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification. As part of its green initiatives, its architecture features a solar panel field that contributes to 97% of the hub’s energy requirement, a biophilic design that integrates natural elements, and charging station for electric vehicles.

The day continued with a cultural immersion at Shambala Silang, where the main attraction is their Tawid Gallery, where guests got to see the indigenous arts and crafts of the region, offering them a glimpse into their rich heritage.

This was followed by a hearty lunch at Siglo Moderno Filipino, known for its modern takes on traditional Filipino dishes. They served the guests a meal they called “Lakbay Lokal Platter”; this special meal contains different local dishes with a twist from the provinces of Cavite: Laing Dinamita, Sisiglaw Salad, Himagsikan wings (a local version of Buffalo wings), and more.

In the afternoon, guests were treated with the scenic beauty of Tagaytay with a stay at the iconic Taal Vista Hotel. More than just offering a luxurious retreat, the hotel enriched their experience with a captivating history walk tour, shedding light on the rich heritage of Tagaytay, the Taal Volcano, and the storied legacy of the hotel itself.

To end the day, they experienced the thrills of Sky Ranch Tagaytay before enjoying a delightful dinner at Suteki, a restaurant that features contemporary Japanese cuisine, adding a vibrant contrast to the day’s Filipino-themed meals.

Day 2: Delving Deep into the Culture of Maragondon

The adventure continued the second day where they took the influencers to the charming town of Maragondon, Cavite, starting with a peaceful lunch at the “Alegria del Rio” Maragondon Balsa River Cruise.

After, they went on visited one of the famous tourist spots around the city, the Bonifacio Trial House, where national hero Andres Bonifacio stood trial, giving them a deeper understanding of the area’s role in Philippine history.

To further enrich their experience, the participants joined a hands-on session at the Likhang Maragondon Bamboo Weaving Workshop, where they learned weaving techniques from local artisans using bamboo as a material. Every one of the guests got to create their own placemats out of bamboo.

Weaving is part of Maragondon’s history and culture. As part of the community’s way of preserving this tradition, this workshop serves as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the rich heritage of Maragondon’s indigenous weaving techniques is passed down to younger artisans.

The day concluded with snacks at Lolo Claro’s Restaurant, providing a perfect relaxing ending to the two-day adventure.

Why We Do This

Biyaheng South Experiential Tour holds great significance in showcasing the vibrant culture, history, and hidden gems of South Luzon. However, we are not only promoting the scenic spots of South Luzon but also supporting the local economies of the provinces.

“This initiative is a testament of economic innovation and sustainable tourism development, enhancing tourism through accessibility and convenience for travelers. The goal is to create an environment where convenience complements the beauty and uniqueness of the destination, resulting in enjoyable, memorable and convenient experiences for all.” Department of Tourism Region IV-A Director, Ms. Marites Castro said.

“In honor of National Tourism Month, the Biyaheng South Experiential Tour shows our dedication to drive tourism and economic growth in the South. We are grateful for the continued support of Department of Tourism (DOT) and Cavite Tourism; their partnership and shared vision have been instrumental in making this program a success. Together, let’s look forward to fostering sustainable tourism, contributing to the livelihood of local communities, and showcasing the treasures that lie just beyond our toll roads.” stated Arlette Capistrano, MPT South’s Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management.

Biyaheng South is MPT South’s tourism advocacy program that has made a significant impact by promoting its toll road networks, particularly CAVITEX, its C5 Link segment, and CALAX, as gateways to the tourist destinations of Southern Luzon. The program demonstrates how infrastructure not only can improve connectivity but also can serve as a catalyst for regional economic growth through tourism promotion.

MPT South is a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the infrastructure arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC). Aside from the CALAX and CAVITEX networks of toll roads, MPTC’s domestic portfolio includes concessions for the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the NLEX Connector Road, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) in Cebu.

Malubhang nasugatan ang isang Tricycle Driver matapos siyang saksakin ng isang pasahero na napagbalingan lamang umano siya ng galit sa Tondo, Maynila.

Sa juha ng CCTV sa lugar, pumarada sa gilid ng kalsada ang tricycle na minamaneho ng biktima at pinababa ang limang lalaki sa tricycle sa Lico Street.

Pero sa halip na magbayad ng pamasahe, agad lumapit ang isa sa mga pasahero at sinaksak ang driver sa dibdib.

Nakatakbo ang biktima pero hinabol pa rin siya ng suspek, na tinangka namang awatin ng kaniyang mga kasama.

Sa iba pang kuha ng CCTV, nadapa ang biktima kaya  naabutan siya ng suspek.

Sa salaysay ng kapatid ng biktima sa pulisya, napagbalingan umano ito ng galit matapos makaaway ng suspek ang isa sa na kasama nitong uminom sa isang bar.

Patuloy naman ang pagtugis ng mga awtoridad sa lalaki.

Deemed its most authentic—and bigger than ever—celebration this year, Oktoberfest at Newport World Resorts is back for its highly anticipated second edition on October 24 to 26, 2024 at Hilton Manila. The country’s premier lifestyle and entertainment destination is set to welcome more than a thousand fest-goers for three days of indulgence in Bavarian fare, live entertainment, and overflowing steins. The iconic beer festival from Munich, Germany has now become one of the property’s most-awaited signature festivals, thanks to popular demand since launching last year.

“At Newport World Resorts, we take pride in creating experiences that are as authentic as they are enjoyable. This year’s Oktoberfest is no exception. We’ve gone all out to bring you the very best of Oktoberfest, right here at the country’s premier lifestyle and entertainment destination,” Newport World Resorts Chief Marketing Officer David Jorden shared during the media launch.

For this edition, bier lovers will enjoy a selection of classic Bavarian draft beers from the Weihenstephan Brewery, the world’s oldest continuously operating brewery. Serving up an even grander spread of Bavarian favorites, attendees will be treated to hefty servings of freshly baked pretzels and German rye bread with flavorful dips, Munich-style sausage salad, platters of pork bratwurst and frankfurter paired with tangy sauerkraut, crispy pork knuckle, chicken schnitzel, and cheese-topped spaetzle. To top off this Bavarian-style feast, indulge in baked apple tart and Kaiserschmarrn for dessert.

From October 24 to 26, starting every 6 PM, The Ballroom of Hilton Manila will be fully decked out into a traditional Bavarian beer hall with classic long benches, festive buntings, checkered tablecloths for guests to gather round. To complete the experience, world-renowned AnTon Showband all the way from Austria, will keep everyone dancing and celebrating all night.

Get first dibs on Oktoberfest tickets with an early bird promotion of PHP 4,900 nett per person until September 30. The regular price goes for PHP 5,400 nett per person from October 1. All Oktoberfest ticket holders can avail an overnight stay at Hilton Manila with breakfast for two (2) at a special rate of PHP 7,500 nett per room valid during the festival. Guests can also retreat in Holiday Inn Express – Newport City’s overnight stay package inclusive of breakfast for two (2) at PHP 4,000 nett. Join the festivities and enjoy exclusive offers through www.newportworldresorts.com/oktoberfest-2024.

For more information on Oktoberfest 2024 at Newport World Resorts, visit www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Every visit is made more rewarding with an Epic Rewards membership, download the Epic Rewards Mobile App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

About Newport World Resorts:

Escape the ordinary at Newport World Resorts.

First established as the pioneer integrated resort in the Philippines in 2009, Newport World Resorts encompasses a newer and bigger world of extraordinary thrills within the bustling Newport City community. It is a one-stop, non-stop casino, hotels, and entertainment complex comprising two main wings, Newport Grand Wing and Newport Garden Wing that feature a wide array of gaming thrills and an innovative EPIC REWARDS program for members.

Centrally located within a prime tourism spot, right across the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, Newport World Resorts boasts of the highest hotel room key count in a single property with five international hotel brands, MARRIOTT Hotel Manila, SHERATON Manila Hotel, HOTEL OKURA Manila, HILTON Hotel Manila, and HOLIDAY INN Express Manila-Newport City. The sprawling property also features a wide range of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) venues, including a three-story convention center that houses the country’s largest hotel ballroom, the Marriott Grand Ballroom.

At Newport World Resorts, entertainment and lifestyle options abound. The award-winning Newport Performing Arts Theater seats over 1,700 audiences for live entertainment from plays and musicals to concerts and amazing performances. Likewise, the Newport Grand Wing’s The Grand Bar and Lounge and the Newport Garden Wing’s Bar 360 and El Calle Food and Music Hall provide nightly live entertainment for guests and patrons. The Newport Mall features international luxury brands and the state-of-the-art Newport Cinemas. Also within Newport City, are over 70 restaurants and dining outlets offering a diverse selection of local and international cuisine, prepared by top Filipino and international chefs.

Manila, Philippines – September 14, 2024 — The ongoing battle against counterfeit products in the Philippines has reached new heights, with recent operations in August by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seizing up to P5.5 million worth of fake goods across Metro Manila and Rizal. As the country grapples with a growing flood of counterfeit items—ranging from luxury brands to essential goods—the launch of a new non-profit organization, Brand Verification, couldn’t be more timely.

Brand Verification, established by a coalition of brand owners, manufacturers, and legal experts, aims to protect both consumers and legitimate businesses from the dangers of counterfeit products. The organization’s launch comes on the heels of record-breaking seizures in 2023, where over ₱26 billion worth of counterfeit goods were confiscated nationwide.

Many of these counterfeit items, often sold on online platforms, pose serious health and safety risks, from substandard beauty products that cause skin damage to fake medicines that jeopardize lives. Brand owners, frustrated by the proliferation of fake versions of their products, decided to act — leading to the creation of Brand Verification.

“We came together because counterfeiters were affecting almost every product we made,” said a spokesperson for Brand Verification. “Our goal is simple: to protect consumers and ensure that they are purchasing legitimate, safe products.”

Brand Verification: How It Works

Brand Verification has developed a sophisticated, multi-layered system to verify product authenticity. Genuine items will now feature a special sticker with a unique serial number, allowing consumers to check the product’s legitimacy through a secure online portal. This system empowers buyers to instantly know whether the item in their hands is authentic or fake.

Beyond product authentication, Brand Verification also employs a dedicated team of investigators who monitor physical and online marketplaces. The team’s mission is to identify and expose fraudulent sellers, from illegal distributors to counterfeit syndicates operating behind seemingly legitimate storefronts.

“Consumers deserve to know they’re getting the real deal, and we’re here to make sure of that. At the same time, we’re actively tracking down the criminals behind these fake products and taking legal action to stop them,” the spokesperson added.

The team behind Brand Verification is comprises of highly specialized professionals, including former law enforcement officers as well as regulatory inspectors from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Additionally, the group has a roster of licensed pharmacists, chemists, legal experts, and more than 3,000 micro-influencers to support their public outreach and investigative efforts. Each member brings a wealth of experience, making Brand Verification a formidable force against counterfeiters.

Prior to its public launch, Brand Verification spent four years meticulously building and refining its operations. During this period, they collaborated with key government agencies and industry experts to ensure their system was effective and robust.

A Nationwide Call to Action

Brand Verification is calling on all manufacturers, brand owners, and even consumers to join their cause. With support from various government agencies and private organizations, they are building a formidable front against the counterfeit crisis that continues to threaten the safety and economic stability of the Philippines.

The proliferation of counterfeit goods not only affects the bottom line of businesses but also endangers the health, safety, and trust of consumers. Brand Verification is committed to creating a marketplace where authenticity prevails, giving buyers peace of mind and helping legitimate businesses thrive.

“Our vision is a world where consumers never have to worry about whether a product is real or fake. We are determined to protect the integrity of the marketplace and the safety of consumers,” the spokesperson concluded, “because in the end, trust is the true currency of any thriving economy.

For those who suspect they have encountered counterfeit products, Brand Verification encourages reports to be sent to their official email: report@brandverification.com.ph or brandv3rification@gmail.com.

Ano ang mga ginagawa mong hakbang upang protektahan ang iyong bahay?

Sa South Africa, isang kakaibang machine gun ang ginagamit ng mga residente upang pigilan ang pagpasok ng mga kawatan sa kanilang tahanan.

Ito ang Sublethal Remote Gun.

Ang Sublethal Remote Gun ay isang non-lethal device na inilalagay sa labas ng bahay.

Katulad ng submachine gun, tuloy-tuloy ang putok ng remote gun. Kinokontrol ito sa pamamagitan ng phone at kapag i-turn on, maglalabas ito ng 17mm nylon bullets sa target. Hindi ito nakamamatay, ngunit nagbibigay ito ng pinsala sa sinumang matatamaan nito.

Sa South Africa, hindi kinakailangan ng lisensya sa paggamit ng Sublethal Remote Gun. Subalit hindi dapat ito basta lamang papaputukin kung wala namang banta dahil maituturing na ito bilang assault.

Sa panahon ngayon, mabuti nang magkaroon ng plano upang maprotektahan ang ating tahanan at mga mahal sa buhay.