by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 10, 2021 | Art and Science
BPI Foundation, the social development arm of BPI, in partnership with the Ayala Museum, launched its first-ever virtual exhibit titled BPI: Banking on the Arts as part of the Bank’s 170th-anniversary celebration this August.
“This museum-like virtual reality experience aims to create better arts awareness and appreciation, reinvent the way people see local art, and more importantly – help boost the Philippine art scene,” said BPI Foundation Executive Director Owen Cammayo. “With the recent surge in confirmed COVID-19 cases and the reimposition of stricter lockdowns, allow us to bring this unique museum experience to you all, while you remain in the safety and comfort of your homes.”
With the help of Ayala Museum’s Curatorial Team led by Senior Curator and Head of Conservation Kenneth Esguerra, BPI: Banking on the Arts was conceptualized to depict BPI as a banking institution through six key virtues: celebration, tradition, relevance, resiliency, creativity & innovation, and growth. It features over 50 pieces from the BPI Art Collection including works of Juan Luna, Justiniano Asuncion, Oscar Zalameda, Justin Nuyda, and Arturo Luz, among others.
“As we aspire to be at the forefront in championing Philippine art, rest assured that we at BPI group will continue to push for more meaningful activities like this to promote our cultural wealth and history as we continue our journey to banking excellence anchored on trust and the best digital offers,” said BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco.
NCCA Chairman Arsenio Lizaso shows his support for the virtual exhibit.
Recognizing the vulnerability of our cultural sphere amid these challenging times, National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairman Arsenio Lizaso said, “This virtual exhibit is an excellent opportunity to showcase our cultural heritage to the world. May these works of art and the access they provide to our cultural heritage continue to be a unifying force for the society as we move towards a stronger and more resilient future.”
The virtual exhibit is part of Yugto ng Sining, or the Stages of Art program, which aims to preserve Filipino culture and heritage through awareness and appreciation of the arts. Under the program, BPI Foundation also organized an art-making contest for BPI employees to recognize and amplify their artistic abilities and launched #KulturaSerye, a social media campaign that features the life and works of various Filipino visual artists in the BPI Art Collection.
BPI: Banking on the Arts is available for public viewing online until September 24, 2021, via: www.bpifoundation.org/page/banking-on-the-arts.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 8, 2021 | Business
77 Living Spaces, Inc. (77LSI), the local housing developer in the Visayas specializing in residential spaces, is all set for the construction of its mass-housing project for 902 Cebu government employees, amid the pandemic.
The housing project, which will be erected in the remaining 7.3-hectare property owned by Cebu provincial government in Barangay Tunghaan, Minglanilla town, is an initiative of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Cebu Provincial Government.
Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia and DHSUD Secretary Eduardo Del Rosario led the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Tunghaan Subdivision Project. Minglanilla Mayor Elanito Peña who also graced the ceremony, expressed gratitude to the national government, particularly DHSUD, for the implementation of the project that will benefit civil servants from the Cebu Provincial government and Minglanilla LGU.
DHSUD Sec. Eduardo Del Rosario, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, Mayor Elanito Peña (6th, 7th and 8th from left) with (L-R) Hon. Jenny Young, Hon. Jaime Caumeran, 77LSI COO Engr. Gionmaar Navaja, Hon. Atty. Rajiv Enad, Hon. Raul Bacaltos, Hon. Yolanda Daan, DHSUD Asec. Leira Buan, DHSUD Reg. Director Engr. Francis Ordeniza, and 77LSI AGM Jan Phillips Galo.
Joining them is 77 Living Spaces Chief Operating Officer Gionmaar Navaja. “We are grateful for this opportunity to work with the government and LGUs to strengthen the national housing program in the region and to promote resilient Filipino communities across the country,” Navaja said. “This is our way of giving back to the community as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility program.”
The mass housing project is an initiative to push the government’s whole-of-nation approach to give Cebu government employees who have served the government all their lives, the opportunity to enjoy the comforts of having a decent home that is both affordable and sustainable.
The P111-million project is the company’s first socialized housing endeavor in Cebu under the Balance Housing Actwhich requires owners and/or developers of the proposed subdivision and condominium projects to develop an area for socialized housing, at the option of the developer, equivalent to at least 15 percent of the total subdivision area or subdivision project cost. Most of the company’s socialized housing projects are located in Negros – some of which are low-cost housing like the Aldea Homes 1, Aldea Homes 2, Aldea Homes 3&4, and Marina Del Costa located in Sibulan Negros Oriental.
The company is the developer behind the three Aldea Premier developments: the Malibu Residences in Talisay City; Bali Residences which is located in Lapu-Lapu City; and Florence Residences in the Cubacub-Mandaue area. 77 Living Spaces Inc. was also dubbed as a top-performing developer for the Visayas by PAG-IBIG Fund in 2020.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 7, 2021 | Advocacy
Jollibee Group Chairman and Founder, Tony Tan Caktiong, decided to pursue a bold and valuable idea back in 2008. He thought: what if the company were to buy directly from farmers so they can have a regular and stable market to sell to? This comes from a recognition that even if agriculture is one of the country’s key sectors, farmers remain to be among the country’s most vulnerable, and their lack of opportunities and resources prevents them from earning a higher income.
Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the company’s social development arm, then took on the challenge of translating the idea into the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP), which would eventually link small-scale farmers to their supply chain.
Today, the white onions, green bell peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables that the company uses in Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal come directly from small-scale farmers across the Philippines. JGF gives us a peek into how over 500 farmers from 17 farmer groups have Grown with Joy and earned their place in big markets in the video essay that the Foundation recently released.
Enabling Growth
Products grown with Joy. Jollibee Group Foundation’s Farmer Entrepreneurship Program enables farmers to become entrepreneurs who supply big buyers such as the Jollibee Group.
At the heart of FEP is a stack of interventions that help farmers sharpen their technical skills and business acumen. JGF starts by partnering with organizations across the country to help farmers form clusters, so they can collectively meet the volume and quality requirements of big buyers and market their produce.
In 2018, JGF developed a training program to train Agro-entrepreneurship Facilitators who guide farmer groups towards becoming farmer entrepreneurs. This year, JGF brought this training program online in partnership with Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan entitled “Agro-Entrepreneurship for Inclusive Value Chains: An Introduction.”
As a group, FEP farmers can scale their operations, successfully maintain their status as Jollibee Group suppliers and find other markets. Growing and scaling means that farmer groups need to comply with standards such as the Philippine Good Agricultural Practices (PhilGAP) promoted by the Department of Agriculture.
A requirement of the Jollibee Group among its agriculture-based suppliers, PhilGAP guides farmers in addressing different aspects of on-farm production and post-production processes that result in safe and quality agricultural products.
Since 2009, FEP farmers have consolidated and delivered more than 7,000 metric tons or 700 truckloads of vegetables to the Jollibee Group, earning more than P300 million in total sales. Furthermore, 94% of FEP farmer groups are already GAP-certified as the others continue to work towards this milestone.
Sharing the joy
Gisela Tiongson
“It brings us real joy that We have helped hundreds of farmers embark on a journey to rediscover and even totally embrace farming. FEP has emboldened them to dream bigger and has given them the tools necessary to turn them into reality,’’ says Gisela Tiongson, JGF Executive Director.
Ligaya Miras, a farmer leader of Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Cebu City reflects on her journey. “Being an FEP farmer means I am not just a farmer, but also an entrepreneur.’’ She adds, “Farming is not just a source of livelihood. For me, it is a mission. If there are no farmers, who will feed people? I am proud to be a farmer.’’
Farmers who are part of the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program help the Jollibee Group spread the joy of eating by supplying the ingredients for some of the favorite products from Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal.
From the white onions used in the Jollibee Yumburger, to the spring onions sprinkled on the Chowking Chao Fan, and the green bell peppers we enjoy in the Greenwich Hawaiian Overload Pizza—FEP farmers truly help spread the joy of eating among countless Filipinos every day.
To learn more about the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program and to watch the video essay inspired by the growth of FEP farmers, visit the Jollibee Group Foundation official Facebook Page at fb.com/JollibeeGroupFoundationInc.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 3, 2021 | Health and Wellness
Toshiba Low Sugar Multi-Cooker
Is rice your favorite food? You are not alone. It’s our staple food as Filipinos. But did you know that a frighteningly large portion of the calories and sugar that we eat comes from rice? Yikes!
However, making major changes to your diet can sometimes seem very overwhelming. But don’t worry, instead of making big changes, you can start by doing the simplest thing. Simply invest in this appliance that actually lowers the sugar in your rice: Toshiba, the world’s leading manufacturer of artisanal home and lifestyle solutions makes cooking healthier rice possible by its Low Sugar Multi-Cooker (SRP: P13,195.00).
“This is a great example of how technology can be utilized to make people’s lives not just more convenient but to also improve their health,” says Annalyn Devilles, Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines’ Small Domestic Appliances Product Manager. “Our Low Sugar Multicooker is proof of our commitment to creating innovations that are truly relevant to the needs of our customers. This product was developed to create an impact in improving nutrition and, in the long term, the quality of life of our customers.”
The Toshiba 1.0L Low Sugar Multi-Cooker is an innovative appliance that has a ‘Healthy Rice Function.’ This is certified to effectively reduce sugar in rice by up to 35%. This cooker’s optimal simmering process with a 58% increase in Healthy Digestive Resistant Starch, your rice is cooked at the right temperature enough to break down and drain its starch content.
Whether you want to cook congee, quick-cook rice, white rice, brown rice, Gaba rice, sticky rice, or mixed rice, this multi-cooker has got you covered. It allows you to have tasty and healthy meals and lets you enjoy a wide variety and healthy cooking options that are perfect for you and your family.
Its 24-hour preset timer function automatically cooks your rice in case you’d get your hands busy preparing other meals. You can also choose the “Keep Warm” 3D Heating Induction Technology Function, so your rice is always warm when you serve it. On top of its multiple functions, this Low Sugar Multi-Cooker is also made with Japanese Binchotan non-stick charcoal coated pot so you can be sure of the highest standards of quality and durability that go into each perfectly cooked pot of rice.
“We continue on our commitment of being a premier consumer electronics company which manufactures and sells innovative and technologically-advanced products as it endeavors to improve the quality of life within the global community,” Annalyn Devilles, Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines’ Small Domestic Appliances Product Manager.
Healthy eating can help you prevent, control, and even reverse health complications such as diabetes. While you really do need to pay attention to some of your food choices, you can still enjoy your favorite treats and meal as long as you plan properly, and limit hidden sugar. The secret key is moderation and using the appropriate and helpful tools or methods to keep your balanced diet on track and off the pitfall.
About Toshiba
Toshiba is the world’s leading manufacturer of artisanal home appliance solutions that cater to the lifestyle needs of today’s discerning customers. Boasting superior Japanese quality with uncompromising attention to detail, Toshiba’s diverse portfolio of products includes innovative solutions for kitchen, laundry, fresh storage, small appliances, and air care. To know more about Toshiba’s world-class home appliance solutions or avail of exclusive promos, visit www.toshibaph.com. You can also check out our official store on Shopee (www.shopee.ph/toshibaphilippines).
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 19, 2021 | Food & Beverage
In the world of non-alcoholic carbonated beverages, root beer holds a special place in our hearts. This bubbly, sweet bliss is reminiscent of our summer days, especially when it is served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning it into that nostalgic sweet treat – the root beer float.
The man who gifted us with this creation is the late Frank. J. Wisner, owner of Colorado’s Cripple Creek Brewing. It is believed that Wisner came up with the idea while mountain gazing but missing the snow-covered peaks. He then thought of making his own icy mountain top with a mug of root beer as the mountain and scoops of vanilla ice cream as snow caps. He initially called this the “Black Cow Mountain.”
Every year in August, we celebrate this dessert masterpiece with the National Root Beer Float Day. In the U.S., this is often celebrated with festivals and competitions. In the Philippines, even amid a pandemic and quarantine restrictions, we can celebrate this day at home by making different versions of this foamy and fizzy drink.
The staple, of course, is root beer. One of the brands available in the local market is Mug Root Beer, a product of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) —the country’s exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages.
Get creative
Other than the classic root beer and vanilla ice cream float recipe, the food website, Sugar and Soul, shared other creative ways to make it.
“The Chocoholic”
- Prepare a syrup-rimmed glass rolled in sprinkles
- Pour root beer
- Add scoops of ice cream but swap vanilla for chocolate ice cream
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup
“The Very Vanilla”
- Highlight the vanilla flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the root beer
- Finish it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—and now you’re in vanilla, milky heaven
“The Slushie”
- Simply combine vanilla ice cream, root beer, and ice in a blender
- Blend until it reaches smoothie texture
- Top with whipped cream and cherries
These root beer float recipes will definitely be fun to create while we are on home quarantine.
“Everything about Mug root beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma, and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment. It’s the perfect drink for the whole family,” said Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI president, and chief executive officer.
So now, we raise our mugs and toast to the bubbliest, fizziest, milky drink … the Root Beer Float!
Mug Root Beer is available in 300ml cans, 1.5L PET, and 2L PET in supermarkets, groceries, and convenience stores. PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of well-known beverage brands in the Philippines: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Milkis, and Aquafina.
About Pepsi Philippines
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages & snacks in the Philippines, with a relationship spanning 70 years. PCPPI is a listed company in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE: PIP) with Lotte Corporation, a holding company of Lotte Chilsung Beverage, one of the biggest beverage companies in South Korea as the lead shareholder co-managing with PepsiCo.
PCPPI manufactures and sells well-known food and beverage brands: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Sips, Milkis, Let’s Be, and Aquafina. It has established 14 manufacturing facilities across the country, serving more than 700,000 outlets and providing employment through its extensive distribution network.
PCPPI is committed to creating a positive impact on society with programs focused on environmental sustainability, nutrition, education, and livelihood. For more information, visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.
Whether you want to cook congee, quick-cook rice, white rice, brown rice, Gaba rice, sticky rice, or mixed rice, this multi-cooker has got you covered. It allows you to have tasty and healthy meals and lets you enjoy a wide variety and healthy cooking options that are perfect for you and your family.
“Everything about Mug root beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma, and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment. It’s the perfect drink for the whole family,” said Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI president, and chief executive officer.
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages & snacks in the Philippines, with a relationship spanning 70 years. PCPPI is a listed company in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE: PIP) with Lotte Corporation, a holding company of Lotte Chilsung Beverage, one of the biggest beverage companies in South Korea as the lead shareholder co-managing with PepsiCo.
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