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Nagbunga ng masaganang ani ngayong wet season ang pamimigay ng libreng binhi, pataba, at training ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sa mga magsasaka sa barangay pinili, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija.

Ayon sa Chairman ng Binabuyan Farmers’ Association na si Fernando Salvador, dahil sa mahusay na pag-aalaga sa kanila, nakaani sila ng mahigit isandaang kaban ng palay kada ektarya na mas marami kumpara sa mga nakaraang taon.

Iniugnay ni Salvador at ng kanyang mga kapwa magsasaka ang magandang ani ngayong taon sa tulong ng Department of Agriculture na pinapangunahan ni Pangulong Marcos.

Dagdag pa ni Salvador, lubos na nagpapasalamat ang asosasyon sa walang sawang tulong at gabay ng Pangulo sa kanilang mga magsasaka.

Ayon sa Philippine Rice Information System, inaasahan na makakapag-ani ang mga magsasaka ng Nueva Ecija ng halos 533,000 metric tons ng palay ngayong Oktubre at tinatayang 153,000 metric tons naman sa Nobyembre.

BUO ang suporta ni Metro Pacific Investments Corporation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Manuel V. Pangilinan sa nuclear power exploration sa bansa.

Sa Giga Summit on Sustainable Energy, Efficiency and Future Grid 2023, sinabi ni Pangilinan na pabor siya sa paggamit ng nuclear power dahil may kakayanan itong magbigay ng malalim na supply ng kuryente sa buong bansa nang hindi umaasa sa fossil fuel na isang paraan para makaiwas sa pagtaas ng presyo ng langis sa pandaigdigang merkado.

“We are indeed in favor of exploring nuclear power,” pahayag ni MVP.

Sa ngayon, aniya, sinimulan na nila ang pre-feasibility na tatagal ng tatlong buwan habang ang deasibility draw list ay tatagal naman ng anim na buwan.

“We started pre-feasibility. It will take three months. The feasibility draw list will take another six months. We should engage Ultra Safe to conduct pre-feasibility study and will then lead to full blown feasibility study which we would like to share with the government and the participants of the industry itself,” paliwanag ni Pangilinan.

Aniya, mas maliit ang capacity ng micro modular reactor o MMR kumpara sa small modular reactors (SMR) na umaabot lamang sa 5 hanggang 15 megawatts na ideal para tugunan ang mga island provinces, island cities at data centers.

“There are two interesting benefits that it could bring. One is the impact of MMR to supply adequate and 24/7 power supply to hyperscale data centers. Another side of it is its impact on desalination plants. We have inadequate supply of water…this will solve water issue as well by adopting this nuclear solution,” dagdag pa ng negosyante.

Paglilinaw ni MVP, habang patuloy ang pag-aaral sa nuclear energy, dapat aniyang tandaan na ito ay isang tool lamang at ang tagumpay nito ay naka-depende sa tamang paggamit at regulasyon.

In the wake of fires, victims are left not only with the loss of homes and possessions but also grapple with physical and psychological challenges.

A fire-hit victim from Quezon City awaits for her ECG inside the SMFI Mobile Clinic

Understanding the need to provide comprehensive care to fire victims, especially those from low-income communities, the SM group, through SM Foundation, activated its medical mission to provide free medical checkups and medicines to the victims of a recent fire in Barangay Kruz na Ligtas, Quezon City.

Over 50 fire victims, including those taking temporary shelter in the barangay gym, availed free availed of the free medical services, which included general medical checkups. SM Foundation’s mobile clinic was also stationed during the medical mission to provide ECGS and X-rays to beneficiaries. Those who needed medication were also given free medicines.

SM Foundation also extended the medical mission to other members of the community, providing a total 177 medical services.

A volunteer of SMFI prepares a resident of Brgy. Kruz na Ligtas for his X-ray.

Overcoming post-fire challenges

75-year-old Susanita Embong and her niece 57-year-old Celna Inte happily share the medicines they received from SM Foundation.

Celna Inte and her aunt Susanita Embang, a senior citizen, were two of the fire victims who received medical attention during the medical mission.

Celna, now in her late 50s, has been religiously taking her maintenance medicine for five years now. Just like her aunt, they say that their health and lives are the only thing they have and treasure amidst the recent fire.

“Nasunog po talaga lahat kasama na po ‘yung mga gamot, reseta, at medical records namin,” Celna shared. “Hindi po kamipinabayaan. Mayroon po kaming pagkain at tinutulugan. Pero nung unang gabi po namin, sobrang nahirapan po ako.”

“Dahil po nakahiga kami sa semento at banig, napaka sakit po ng likod ko. Ako rin po’y nakaranas ng panginginig na parang hindi ko po mapigilan dala na po siguro ng takot at trauma sa nangyari sa amin,” she recalled her harrowing experience.

During the medical mission, both Celna and Susanita were able to go through general check-ups. They were able to get health and nutrition advice as well as proper medicines for their concerns.

“Nakahinga rin po kami ng maluwag kahit papaano dahil nacheck up po kami. Nabawasan po ang worry po ko. Ang ibang gamot ko, ay hindi basta-basta pwedeng inumin ng tuloy tuloy. Kailangan ng guidance ng doctor,” she said.

“Mas lalo po ngayong nasunugan kami, mas magiging mahirap at magastos po ang magpacheck-up at bumili ng pamalit sa mga nasunog na gamot. Malaking tulong po na natanggap po namin iyon lahat ng libre dito. Ang mahalaga lang ay ligtas at malakas kami—kaya naming bumangon,” Celna said.

SM Megamall unveiled its 50-foot New York City-inspired Christmas tree, brilliantly capturing the festive spirit of the bustling metropolis during the holiday season.

Leading the tree-lighting ceremony were (L-R): Santa Claus, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, Jose Mari Chan, Mandaluyong City Vice Mayor Menchie Abalos, and SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Operations Christian Mathay. Known as ‘Mr. Christmas,’ Jose Mari Chan also launched and serenaded guests with this year’s SM Christmas Jingle titled ‘Celebrate Christmas at SM’.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. yesterday turned over Php131.89 million to Bacolod City Mayor Albee B. Benitez for the redevelopment of the iconic Manokan Country, signaling the start of its transformation into a future-ready tourist destination that honors Ilonggo food culture and tradition.

The amount turned over by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan to Mayor Benitez represents seven years of advance rental payments for Manokan Country, under the 40-year lease agreement with the city at an annual rental fee of Php21.26 million, subject to a 5% escalation rate every three years.

SM Prime, one of Asia’s leading real estate developers, will redevelop the Manokan Country into a tech-ready, more spacious food hall, with a kitchen that will assure customers of the sanitary preparations and quality cooking of the Chicken Inasal and options for airconditioned spaces for more comfortable dining.

“We treasure the relationship we have built with the community of Bacolod City and we remain committed to further enhancing their shopping and dining experience, particularly at their well-loved Manokan Country,” Lim said. “The design of the new Manokan was greatly influenced by our passion to provide customers, including our Chicken Inasal entrepreneurs, with a world-class facility they can be really be proud of.”

Lim explained that the modernization of Manokan Country is essential to cater to the evolving needs and expectations of both locals and tourists. “Upgrading the infrastructure and facilities within Manokan Country will not only enhance the overall dining experience but also improve safety, hygiene standards, and operational efficiency that customers are prioritizing nowadays,” he added.

By modernizing Manokan Country, SM Prime and the city government aim to create a more appealing and comfortable environment for visitors, ensuring a positive impression of Bacolod City. Upgraded facilities, such as modern seating arrangements, proper ventilation, improved sanitation systems, and expanded parking spaces will contribute to a more enjoyable dining experience.

Modernization efforts also include incorporating technology-driven solutions, such as digital payment methods, online ordering platforms, and efficient waste management systems. These advancements will streamline operations, provide convenience to customers, and promote sustainability practices.

“Furthermore, the modernization of Manokan Country will support the local economy by attracting more visitors and generating increased revenue for the vendors and surrounding businesses,” Lim said. “This development project aligns with the vision of Bacolod City as a progressive and forward- thinking destination that excels in providing exceptional experiences to its residents and guests.”

“Through collaboration and investment, we firmly believe that the modernization of Manokan Country will elevate the overall dining scene in Bacolod City, enhancing its appeal and contributing to the growth and prosperity of the local community,” Lim concluded.

In a bold move that signals a shift in the retail landscape, Airwheel, the pioneering electric transportation company, has taken a significant leap forward by investing aggressively in offline stores.

This September up to October, Airwheel unveiled four flagship branches across Manila, bringing the joy of sustainable mobility closer to the hearts of the Filipinos. The first in this line of groundbreaking stores was the Shangri-La Plaza branch, an epitome of elegance and innovation in the heart of Manila. The four strategically located branches include Promenade Greenhills, Eastwood Mall, Alabang Town Center, and the trailblazing Shangri-La Plaza outlet. Each store is designed to offer an immersive experience, inviting customers to explore Airwheel’s range of cutting-edge luggages up close.

The grand inauguration of the Shangri-La Plaza branch on October 15 marked a momentous occasion for Airwheel and its patrons. The store opening was graced by the presence of celebrity influencers, Paul Salas and Mikee Quintos, who effortlessly embody the brand’s spirit of youthful exuberance and environmental consciousness. Their presence added a touch of glamour to the event, making it a memorable affair for everyone in attendance. The event was further elevated by the presence of Airwheel’s CEO, Pierre Froilan Cua. Mr. Cua’s presence symbolized Airwheel’s hands-on approach, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement with its customers and the community at large.

The newly opened Shangri-La Plaza branch stands as a testament to Airwheel’s commitment to providing an unparalleled customer experience. The store boasts a sleek and modern interior, reflecting the brand’s innovative spirit. Visitors can expect to find a wide array of Airwheel products, from electric scooters, all designed to make travelling and leisure convenient for everyone.

AGAD na pinuri ng nangungunang digital solutions platform Globe ang direktiba ng National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) na nag-aatas sa telecom companies na i-block ang text messages na may clickable links, na isang hakbang na naglalayong mabawasan ang scams at fraudulent activities.

Ang telco ang unang nagpatupad ng hakbang na ito noong September 2022, kung saan sinala nito ang lahat ng person-to-person (P2P) SMS na may clickable links sa kanilang network.

“We praise and embrace the NTC’s directive. We at Globe recognize its significance in our shared journey towards a safer digital landscape. In line with this proactive step, we reaffirm our commitment to reducing scams and fraudulent activities, ensuring that every message sent and received is one of trust,” wika ni Anton Bonifacio, Chief Information Security Officer ng telco.

Sa isang memorandum na may petsang September 27, 2023, binigyang-diin ni NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez ang pagbabago sa isang memo na inilabas noong nakaraang taon, batay sa kaligtasan ng publiko at sa mga tuntunin ng “fairness and equality”.

Inaatasan ng revised memorandum ang telcos “na i-block o i-deactivate ang text messages na naglalaman ng clickable domains, URLs, URL shortening services links, Smart Links, at QR Codes.”

Ginagamit ng mga mapagsamantalang indibidwal ang links upang linlangin ang recipients sa pagsisiwalat ng personal information, pag-download ng malware, o pagtamo ng unwanted charges, kadalasan ay sa pamamagitan ng pagpanggap bilang trusted entities o pag-aalok ng false incentives.

Dahil patuloy ang text scams, iginiit ng Globe ang dedikasyon nito na makipagtulungan sa government bodies, lalo na sa NTC, sa walang humpay na kampanya laban sa panloloko at iba pang anyo ng cybercrime.

Bilang tugon sa lumolobong reklamo hinggil sa dumaraming spam at scam messages, lalo na yaong isinisiwalat ang buong pangalan ng mobile users, sinimulan ng telco ang pag-block sa lahat ng P2P SMS na may clickable URLs noong Setyembre ng nakaraang taon.

Ang hakbang na ito ay nagposisyon sa Globe bilang nag-iisang telecom company na maagap na hinaharang ang lahat ng SMS noong panahong iyon.

Ang pinaigting na pagharang na ito ng kompanya ay nagresulta sa kabuuang 2.73 billion messages na na-block noong 2022, na sumasaklaw sa lahat ng malisyoso at kahina-hinalang SMS na na-block, kabilang yaong mga may clickable links.

Na-deactivate din ng Globe ang halos 60,000 SIMs noong nakaraang taon dahil sa ‘unwanted’ messaging.

Sa pagtatapos ng Setyembre ngayong taon, na-block ng Globe ang kabuuang 2.59 billion spam at scam messages, na-deactivate ang 4,733 SIMs, at na-blacklist ang 150,287 na may kinalaman sa SMS fraud.

Ang mga customer na nakatatanggap ng ‘unwanted’ SMS ay maaaring mag-report via #StopSpam portal ng Globe. Hinihikayat din ang mobile users na maglagay ng spam filters sa kanilang mga device bilang dagdag na layer ng proteksiyon.