SM SUPERMALLS’ LADY SECURITY GUARD GILREN BAJADO HONORED FOR EXEMPLARY ACT

Marikina City - Gilren Bajado, lady security guard of RJC Security Solutions, was recognized as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year at the 43rd Founding Anniversary of the Civil Security Group at Camp Crame. The recognition ceremony was presided over by PNP Chief PGen Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. SM Supermalls Customer Relations Services Senior Assistant Vice President Mr. Almus J. Alabe and Regional CRS Manager Harold James E. Herrera were also in attendance to witness the awarding ceremony.

LG Bajado's outstanding accomplishment stems from her remarkable act of honesty and integrity on August 3, 2023, at SM Cinema, SM City Marikina. During her clearing duties, she discovered a lost black pouch containing 64,800 pesos, along with ATM cards and assorted ID cards belonging to Mr. Starsky D. Paunan, a 44-year-old staff member of Palarong Pambansa.

Without hesitation, she reported this to the CRS office, ensuring the safe return of the lost valuables to their rightful owner. Her integrity, honesty, and dedication have earned her this prestigious recognition and admiration from her peers and superiors.

SM Supermalls and RJC Security Solutions take immense pride in her achievement, as it reflects the company's core values of professionalism, honesty, and integrity. Her commitment to her duties, her sense of responsibility, and her exemplary character have brought honor not only to herself but also to RJC Security Solutions as a leading provider of comprehensive security services.

The recognition of LG Gilren Bajado as the Outstanding Security Guard of the Year strengthens SM Supermalls’ commitment to maintaining the highest standards of excellence. The company consistently strives to provide security solutions while ensuring that its employees embody the highest ethical standards.

SM Supermalls extends its warmest congratulations to LG Gilren Bajado for her outstanding achievement and for being a shining example of integrity and professionalism. Her actions serve as an inspiration to all and remind us of the impact that a single individual can have on building a safer and more trustworthy society.

UST Tops Off Henry Sy, Sr. Hall at Manila Campus

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) held the topping off ceremony of the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall last October 7, 2023. The ceremony is a builder’s tradition that highlights the placement of the final beam on top of the structure. 

The seven-storey building is a tribute of the Sy family, the SM Group, and UST to the SM founder for his life-long education advocacy. It is equally a manifestation of the ever-growing desire of the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc., Anargyroi: FMS Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and the 152-year old UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) to further level up in the field of medicine. 

The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will serve as a hub for simulation in medical education, interactive student centered-learning, collaborative multidisciplinary research, and interprofessional education. It will house the Sts. Cosmas and Damian Simulation and Research Center. 

“The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will be a state-of-the-art structure designed to meet the challenges and expectations of a digitally-inclined medical education landscape. It will house technologically advanced facilities and equipment, which will complement the existing teaching, learning, and research practices of the University. It is yet another milestone, securing the UST FMS a relevant spot, a significant spot in Catholic medical education in the country, the region, and the world.” FMS Dean Dr. Ma. Lourdes Maglinao said about the Henry Sy. Sr. Hall.

“Medical students can access a broad range of digital tools and resources to enhance their learning and education as we were compelled to shift to e-learning and online course platforms,” UST Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., said. 

“Nowadays, keeping up with the advances in medical education is paramount to ensure that our students are competent, agile, and well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-changing educational landscape of modern medicine, and this building, this edifice, will give us state-of-the-art equipment, which will give our medical students a cutting-edge knowledge on how to use robotics as well as other equipment,” Fr. Ang added.

Designed by C.A. Ventura & Partners, the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall is on track to be completed by June 2024.

SM Prime, WWF-Philippines Join Forces to Nurture the Future Sustainability Champions

Recognizing today's youth’s key role as tomorrow’s guardians of the environment, SM Prime

Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) and World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-Philippines) have
teamed up to launch YOUth are the Future,a leadership program aimed to equip young student
leaders on environmental conservation , climate change, and sustainability issues.

“There is no better time than now to educate the youth. As stewards of the planet, it is important
that they have an opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, encourage them to
voice out their fresh ideas, and share new perspectives,” said WWF-Philippines Education for
Sustainable Development Project Head Dino Calderon.

“When we provide our young student leaders with learning opportunities and expose them to
practical solutions, we have a chance to help them design a sustainable future. We are
committed to make sure that things change for the better,” says Hans “Chico” Sy, President of
SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability
champion.

Commencing with the grand launch on October 10, 2023, the student ambassadors from various
Metro Manila high schools participated in a discovery tour around the SM Mall of Asia Complex,
which features SM Prime’s sustainability efforts and disaster resiliency practices. The formal
introduction of YOUth are the Future Ambassadors was held at the SMX Convention Center and
along with a pinning ceremony. Leaders and representatives from SM Prime, WWF-Philippines,
government agencies, and foreign dignitaries are also present at the event.

In a message she delivered during the event, Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said, “Our journey is really about the
race to resilience, as our climate changes, society is changing. Sustainability is our pathway to
survival as a planet and that is what resilience is really about, the ability to withstand the impacts
of the hazards that we know and those that we could face in the future.”

The youth ambassadors will participate in a three-day eco-camp at the Pico De Loro Beach and
Country Club in November, where they will learn about waste and energy management,
resource optimization, and climate mitigation and adaptation strategies from some of the
country’s experts.

Renowned for its role in Olive Ridley Sea Turtle conservation, the 3-day eco camp in Hamilo
Coast also serves as an immersive natural classroom in environmental conservation. The
expected output from the eco-camp is a Green Manifesto that outlines their plans to effect
change and a storybook module co-authored by all the participants. The program will culminate
through a series of mall and school tours throughout Metro Manila to boost youth engagement
and student ambassador recruitment.

In a message sent by her excellency Vice President and Department of Education Secretary
Sara Z. Duterte, she said, “This visionary program embodies the transformative power of
education and empowerment in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Taking
advantage of this program will give you all a head start on becoming influential figures in
creating a more sustainable and ecologically aware culture”.

Together with its partners, WWF-Philippines hopes to empower young Filipinos further to
become the next generation of sustainability champions. Programs like YOUth are the Future,
can help future generations become proactive leaders who can #ChangeTheEnding for the
planet.

Rex Education Offers FREE Books, Discounts, and Exciting Deals at MIBF 2023

Are you looking for budget-friendly quality books and educational materials? Rex Education has got you covered! As part of its continued participation in the renowned Manila International Book Fair (MIBF), this year, REX treats book lovers, young and adult learners, parents, educators, and other professionals with free tickets, exclusive discounts, promotions, and fun and exciting activities.

The 44th MIBF will be held from September 14–17, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, at the SMX Convention Center Manila, which has become the fair’s home for many years. More than an event, MIBF is a platform for beneficial partnerships highlighting more than 200 local and international exhibitors, showcasing the largest and most comprehensive selection of books, educational resources, and engaging activities for everyone. It has been attended by more than 160,000 visitors consistently in the last 3 years—all gathered for one purpose—to celebrate books!

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time fan, getting entrance tickets is now a breeze. All you need to do is register with Rex Education through this link: http://bookfair.winposunlimited.com and save the e-ticket to enter the venue. Also, make sure to put Rex Education as the invitation source when you register. Registration is open until September 8, so sign up early and claim limited freebies, including free college books.

Along with freebies, REX will also provide exclusive discounts on storybooks, activity books, and educational materials, including bestsellers in Basic Education, Higher Education, and Law. Prepare your shopping list now and visit the REX booth as early as possible to get your much-needed books.

Moreover, you can seal great deals with REX's Bookay-Bookay, where you can avail of K–12 books for as low as PHP 50.00 and college books for PHP 100.00 or less. Take advantage of up to 50% discount on selected titles, and join the raffle to win additional prizes.

Yes, there’s more from REX! For extra fun and creative experiences, REX will also host a face painting activity to nurture the artistic expressions of your little explorers. A storytelling activity will also be featured to keep them entertained and engaged while learning. Lastly, what a great opportunity to capture memories through a roving photographer! So, celebrate books, visit the Rex Education booth, and satisfy your book cravings.
Championing lifelong learning at MIBF

MIBF is essential to Rex Education's advocacy of championing education. It offers an excellent opportunity for REX to spread its mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning, inspiring every individual to advance oneself, uplifting others, and sustaining the environment for a better world. It has been a cherished tradition for REX to participate in the fair to provide access to more affordable, high-quality books and educational resources.

With the theme "Masterpieces of Human Civilization with UNESCO Highlights," this year's booth will be greatly inspired by and will feature 12 countries and their most significant contributions to human civilization, including artifacts and UNESCO tidbits. These countries are Iraq, India, Egypt, China, Mexico, Greece, Iran, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, the USA, and the Philippines.

The MIBF, the Philippines' largest and longest-running book fair, brings together local and international exhibitors, authors, and book lovers, celebrating books and collaborating and converging for the love of reading and learning.

For more updates on Rex Education's MIBF offers and promos, follow REX’s Facebook page and Instagram page, or visit the MIBF official website at www.manilabookfair.com. Stay tuned, and see you at the fair!

Globe Powers up TOYCON 2023’s Landmark 20th Year

As Toycon Philippines proudly commemorates its 20th year, the landmark celebration promises to be more electrifying than ever with the formidable support of leading digital lifestyle brand Globe.

For the first time, Globe is the title sponsor of the iconic pop-culture event, bringing a new level of excitement and engagement to the toy collector and creator community.

Globe has always been at the forefront of supporting diverse subcultures and passions, and this partnership is a testament to its commitment. As part of the collaboration, Globe will bring to life the rich world of its cinematic and theatrical partners, further enriching the TOYCON 2023 experience for attendees.

"Globe is thrilled to collaborate with Toycon Philippines, especially on such a milestone year," said Mike Magpily, VP, Head of Segment Strategy and Subcultures at Globe.

"As the country’s most reliable network and top digital solutions platform with an ecosystem of various services, we're uniquely positioned to foster the vibrancy of the toy collecting and creating community. This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing a wide array of passions and interests while ensuring the best connectivity for all participants."

Cholo Mallillin, Marketing Head at Toycon Philippines, said: “The collaboration with Globe will further elevate the Toycon experience. This partnership will bring more surprises and rewards to our community. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate 20 years of Toycon in the most exciting way possible."

TOYCON 2023 will be held at the SMX Convention Center in MOA from July 7 to 9, 2023. Attendees are in for a treat, as they have the chance to meet their beloved childhood characters, explore an expansive marketplace of unique toys and collectibles, and participate in exclusive Globe activities.

One of the highlights of the partnership is a series of exclusive perks for Globe customers. By using Globe Rewards points, customers will have the opportunity to win various ticket tiers ranging from Day Passes to VIP Passes. There will also be exclusive toy freebies for VIP pass holders, and unique Globe-only activities, such as paint-your-own Gudi.

At the event, Globe will also host an interactive booth featuring activities designed to reward and inspire. From earning freebies by donating Rewards points to a good cause, to free arcade plays and meet-ups with popular streamers, Globe customers are in for an exciting weekend of gaming and beyond.

To keep up-to-date with all the exciting promotions and surprises at TOYCON 2023, Globe customers are encouraged to use the GlobeOne app.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 Converges East and West

Chef Nurdin Topham and Chef Enrique Olvera

Culinary figures and food enthusiasts from the east and west hemisphere converged at the world’s most important international gastronomy congress – Madrid Fusion Manila (MFM) 2016 at the SMX Convention Center in SM Mall of Asia.

Organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), Madrid Fusion Manila 2016’s theme is “The Manila Galleon: East meets West” and highlights how the Galleon Trade linked Asia to the Western World. The event also emphasized the Philippines as a culinary center of excellence in Asia by providing a unique opportunity to chefs, food aficionados, and food-and-beverage company professionals to come together to learn new culinary techniques from the most acclaimed Michelin-star chefs from across the globe.

Arum Estrategias Internacionalización Director Iñigo Cañedo and Turkish Airlines General Manager for Philippine Operations Erhan Balaban

Focusing on the influences made by the two diverse parts of the world, MFM 2016 featured esteemed chefs such as Joan Roca, Danἰ Garcia, Jordi Butrὀn, Ảngel Leὀn and Ricard Camarena of Spain, Nurdin Topham of China, Yoshihiro Narisawa of Japan, Virgilio Martinez of Peru, David Thompson of Thailand, Kevin Cherkas of Indonesia, Jungsik kim of Korea, Enrique Olvera and Jorge Vallejo of Mexico, Leah Cohen, Paul Qui, Jose Andres, Michael Voltaggio and Romy Dorotan and Amy Besa of USA, and Myke Sarthou and Michael Aspiras of the Philippines. 


Making MFM 2016 another success were the DOT Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr., DOT Director Verna Buensuceso, the TPB COO Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III, Spanish Ambassador Luis Calvo, Secretary of State for Trade of Spain Secretary Jaime Garcia-Legaz, Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Berna Romulo-Puyat, Arum Estrategias de Internacionalización Director Iñigo Cañedo, Foro De Debate’s Lourdes Plana and Chef Margarita Fores.

Philippine Airlines President Jaime Bautista and DOT Director Verna Buensuceso

Indeed, Madrid Fusion Manila 2016 is not just about sharing food, culinary talents, stories and techniques, but also a celebration of camaraderie and friendship between the east and west.