by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 26, 2023 | Business
iQor — a managed services provider of customer engagement and technology-enabled BPO solutions — celebrates the registration of iQor Qares as a nonprofit charitable organization in the Philippines. iQor Qares is one of iQor’s CSR initiatives, focused on giving back to iQor employees and their local communities by providing financial assistance to individuals facing catastrophic or life-altering events.
“The recent registration of iQor Qares as a charitable nonprofit in the Philippines will expand our ability to help our employees, their families, and our local communities in need. We are inspired by the generosity of individuals and corporations that support iQor Qares’ commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. We look forward to helping even more iQorians,” said Fleurette Navarro, iQor’s Chief People Officer and Chair of iQor Qares in the Philippines.
Since 2019, iQor Qares has provided a total of $150,000 employee cases around the world. These donations have helped iQor employees rebuild their lives after natural disasters, care for loved ones in need of medical and end-of-life care, and address housing insecurity and other life-altering events.
Putting people first, supporting local communities
James Down, Senior Director for Operations
The creation of iQor Qares highlights iQor’s company value of the need to give back, as it encourages employees to support fellow iQorians and their communities. “At iQor, we want people to succeed in their careers as well as in other aspects of their lives. Part of that success comes from providing employees with opportunities to foster interpersonal connections and contribute to their communities. In this way, we are doing our part as Filipinos to keep our bayanihan spirit alive,” said James Down, senior director for operations.
“iQor Qares has provided assistance to 54 Filipino employees, and we have committed to help another 38 more people since registering as a nonprofit in April. More than 25% of iQor employees have pledged and donated to the Philippines, totaling 8,377 PH donors to date and this number is growing! In addition, the iQor Qares steering committee has visited our sites in Clark, Fairview, Dasmarinas, Sta. Rosa, Iloilo, Bacolod, Talisay, and Davao,” said Down.
For the past 25 years, iQor has been a steadfast presence in the Philippines, with 17 contact centers in Cavite, Davao, Iloilo, Laguna, Negros Occidental, Pampanga, and Quezon City. Thus, it’s only fitting that, through iQor Qares, iQor continues to actively support the communities where they operate whenever an urgent need arises. iQor Qares remains committed to expanding support in the communities where iQor employees live and work as well as in the surrounding areas.
iQor cultivates a culture that cares
iQor Qares has helped foster empathy and unity among colleagues. As James Down said, “Every iQorian can choose to give one-time or recurring contributions and 100% of the money raised for iQor Qares in the Philippines will help local employees, their family members, and their local communities in need of financial assistance due to life-altering or catastrophic events beyond their control. We can provide financial assistance to any iQorian for three such events during their tenure with us, with a maximum allocation of PHP100,000 per event (which may be waived with approval). We value our team in the Philippines, which makes up about 80% of our total global operations.”
iQor Qares creates a sense of unity among colleagues and sustains its charitable activities, via one-time and recurring donations from iQor employees, quarterly fundraising parties, auctions, and other activities.
“I’m proud to share that every iQorian cares for their colleagues, whether it’s a team member next to them at work or in their community. Even before iQor Qares was established, we have stories of people passing the hat to fellow iQorians, helping out in any way they can to ease others’ financial burdens. With iQor Qares, we are able to expand our existing commitment to taking care of one another,” shared Michael Oliver Dela Pena, vice president for operations.
Donate and learn more at iQorQares.com today.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 25, 2023 | Technology
HP recently launched its latest line of smarter, more affordable Smart Tank printers. Designed to cater to the needs of budget-conscious consumers, these printers offer a winning combination of top-notch features, user-friendly functionality, and unbeatable affordability. Whether you’re an individual or a family, these printers are the perfect choice for those who refuse to compromise on quality, while keeping a close eye on their wallet.
Affordability Meets Functionality
The newly launched HP Smart Tank printer series includes three models: Smart Tank 210, Smart Tank 520, and Smart Tank 580. Each model addresses specific printing needs while ensuring that cost remains a top priority.
The Smart Tank 210
The Smart Tank 210 is an excellent option for those seeking a straightforward printing solution. Its compact design and robust capabilities offer everything you need in a printer. The Smart Tank 210 has wireless printing capabilities, allowing you to conveniently print from your mobile devices using the HP Smart App, Apple AirPrint, Mopria Print Service, HP Print Service Plugin, or Wi-Fi Direct Printing. It is a reliable workhorse for personal and professional use. With a resolution of up to 1200 dpi, your prints will showcase exceptional detail and clarity. Whether you’re printing important documents or school assignments, the Smart Tank 210 delivers outstanding results at an affordable price.
The Smart Tank 520 and 580
Alongside high-quality printing, the Smart Tank 520 and 580 are models that offer copy and scan capabilities, providing a convenient all-in-one solution. With their wireless printing capabilities, you can effortlessly print, copy, and scan documents, photos, and more.
Tackle printing tasks with ease. Experience the power of productivity with the HP Smart Tank 520 and HP Smart Tank 580, an all-in-one printer that allows you to print, copy, and scan documents effortlessly, all in stunning detail with resolutions up to 1200 dpi. It is ready to handle your high-volume printing needs.
User-Friendly Experience
HP understands the importance of a user-friendly experience. That is why the Smart Tank printers are designed to be intuitive and easy to use. Whether you’re a tech-savvy parent or a student on a tight budget, these printers offer a seamless printing experience. Their compact and sleek designs fit seamlessly into any home or office setup. Plus, the wireless printing features ensure a hassle-free printing experience, allowing you to print from anywhere within your home network.
Make the switch to Smart Tank
Upgrade your printing experience and embrace the convenience, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of HP’s all-new Smart Tank printers. To get your hands on these game-changing printers, visit the official HP flagship store at https://bit.ly/HPLazadaFlagshipStore or explore the HP official store at https://bit.ly/HPShopeeOfficialStore.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Business
Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) continues to embody how excellence is best demonstrated through commitment and consistency. PCPPI recently announced that all its manufacturing facilities across the country received recommendations for the coveted Food Safety System Certification (FSSC), with its Naga Plant being the most recent site to be certified.
Frederick D. Ong, the president and chief operating officer of PCPPI, said completing the FSSC status fulfills the organization’s unswerving commitment to developing a strong food safety and quality culture.
Frederick Ong, President and CEO of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc.
“At PCPPI, our mission has always been to produce safe, high-quality, and reliable products that deliver the best customer experience. It is imperative for us to adhere to global industry standards by continuously raising our performance. We do this by adapting to regulatory requirements and consumer demand, and embracing industry innovation,” said Ong.
Obtaining FSSC recognition provides PCPPI an advantage, as the certification recognizes its capacity to produce safe food and food packaging products, reduce hazards and incident risks, roll out resource optimization initiatives, reinforce its supply chain relationships, and maintain food safety protocols and programs.
The FSSC status was recommended by SGS, one of the top global audit and certification companies, following a period of undergoing a rigorous review process that a dedicated Plant Audit Team led. This team comprises representatives across the facility’s functions: food safety and logistics to human resources and environmental health, safety, and security.
SGS tested the plants’ processes and policies in accordance with FSSC standards, which are aligned with ISO 22000 upon onsite inspection. FSSC evaluation is done annually, with scheduled and unannounced audit visits done.
“As we successfully complete our FSSC status, we are optimistic that this will enable more market opportunities for PCPPI and further grow the confidence of both internal and external stakeholders in our organization,” Ong added.
PCPPI operates 12 manufacturing facilities across the country. The FSSC-recommended facilities are Muntinlupa, San Fernando, Santo Tomas, Rosario, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Tanauan, and Cebu City.
PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country. Other than Pepsi, it distributes well-loved brands such as Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier Purified Water. For more information about PCPPI and its products, please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Business
Metro Manila’s middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials have expressed growing concern over the impact of inflation during the second quarter of 2023, according to a survey conducted by the Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Singapore-Manila Branch. The survey, which was conducted from May to June, revealed that a staggering 94% of respondents felt the effects of inflation during this period.
The rising costs of essential goods and services, such as food, transportation, fuel, and utilities, have forced these young adults to make cuts in their non-essential spending, including leisure and entertainment expenses.
Among the respondents, 60% reported that the continuous price increases had the greatest impact on their food and beverage expenses, followed by transportation and fuel costs at 15%, and utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet bills, at 14%. Additionally, an overwhelming 83% of participants stated that they had reduced their spending on non-essential goods, while 79% found it necessary to cut back on leisure and entertainment expenses.
SM Megamall Fashion Hall
The survey also highlighted the financial challenges faced by this demographic. Approximately one-third of respondents (32%) reported being unable to save over the past 6 to 12 months. For those who managed to save, 44% saved a lower percentage of their income. The persistent inflationary pressures have led 38% of respondents to adjust their savings goals by either reducing the target amount or delaying their timelines. Similarly, 47% of participants had to adjust their savings plans.
To cope with the financial strain, many respondents have turned to loans. Of the surveyed individuals, 71% reported having outstanding loans. To augment their incomes, 43% of respondents resorted to taking out additional loans in the past year. Among those who already had loans, 58% had to cut back on other expenses to meet their loan obligations, while 19% were forced to delay payments.
The survey also revealed that 41% of respondents possessed credit cards. Personal loans were the most prevalent type of loan, accounting for 30% of respondents, followed by alternative installment loans and salary loans, each representing 19%, respectively.
Regarding investments, 52% of respondents had existing investment portfolios. Among these, mutual funds and stocks were the top investment products, chosen by 18% of participants each. However, due to the inflationary pressures, 12% of respondents had to partially liquidate their holdings for increased liquidity, and a minimal 1% sold off their entire investment portfolio.
Given the challenges posed by inflation, respondents have adopted diverse coping strategies. A notable 94% expressed concerns that continuous price increases would persist over the next 6 to 12 months. Consequently, 91% of participants felt the need to explore additional income streams. To adjust to the current economic situation, 86% of respondents planned to continue cutting back on expenses, while 73% intended to reduce their spending on entertainment and leisure activities.
Regarding savings, 34% of participants expressed plans to increase their savings allocations to better prepare for the future, while 33% aimed to maintain their current savings pattern. However, 16% of respondents planned to reduce their monthly savings allocation due to inflationary pressures.
The survey also shed light on borrowing habits, with 46% of respondents indicating that they were less likely to take out loans, while 28% stated they were more likely to acquire additional loans.
Regarding investments, 12% expressed a desire to explore risky investments to achieve high returns over the next 6 to 12 months. Meanwhile, 40% considered more conservative options. Notably, 30% said they would avoid investing altogether, while 18% aimed to maintain liquidity.
The online survey conducted by the NRI Singapore-Manila Branch included 295 adults from Metro Manila, consisting of 92 Gen Zs and 203 Millennials from the middle class. The participants had monthly individual income ranges of PHP 13,000 to PHP 41,000 and PHP 41,001 to PHP 163,000.
As inflation continues to impact the daily lives and financial well-being of Metro Manila’s middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials, it is clear that they are actively seeking ways to navigate these challenges and secure their financial futures.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 23, 2023 | Bon Appetit
Do you recall me mentioning how we usually have chicken by default here at home? It is a no-brainer, to be honest. When we can’t think of what to cook or what to order in we just go CHICKEN!
For those of you who have gotten into the habit of ordering using apps like Grab or Foodpanda, you know how expensive it can get to order food. You start off just intending to buy for yourself but then there is a minimum needed to get free delivery or discounts using vouchers. In the end, you end up spending more than you intended.
I happen to be one of those people that love to cook and often prefer to do things from scratch. I love Magnolia for coming up with the bridge between cooking from scratch and instant food. Hooray for Magnolia Chicken Timplados Fried Chicken Drumsticks!
Contents of one (1) Magnolia Chicken Timplados RTC Friend Chicken Drumsticks
The packet comes with 3 drumsticks, breading, and BBQ flavoring. This is either good enough for sharing with 1 or 2 people or, just enough for me if I eat it alone without rice.
It isn’t an instant meal like a TV dinner that you can just pop in the microwave and eat. This ready-to-cook packet is, as it says … ready to cook, so it does require some rudimentary cooking skills to come out well. I posted some directions on how to cook the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Ready-To-Cook Fried Chicken Drumsticks on Hearthandhomebuddies.com and CleanSpoonChronicle.com in case you need to know how it is done.
This package I got was not for BBQ chicken. It isn’t a saucy dish. No, it is fried chicken with BBQ powder coating it.
I love the marinade! It is flavorful but not overpowering. The breading gives that crispiness we look for in fried chicken, and the BBQ powder flavoring gives this simple dish that extra zing! I can’t finish a pack on my own but I know that my nephew and niece certainly can. It pairs perfectly with pasta!
I had my BBQ-flavored fried chicken with creamy tomato pesto with Italian sausage and mushroom. I liked it so much that I did it again the following day, lol!
If you live alone or with just one other Magnolia Chicken Timplados is something you may want to consider having in your freezer. It is ready to cook any time you are. Magnolia Chicken Timplados is available in all leading supermarkets.
iQor — a managed services provider of customer engagement and technology-enabled BPO solutions — celebrates the registration of iQor Qares as a nonprofit charitable organization in the Philippines. iQor Qares is one of iQor’s CSR initiatives, focused on giving back to iQor employees and their local communities by providing financial assistance to individuals facing catastrophic or life-altering events.
PCPPI operates 12 manufacturing facilities across the country. The FSSC-recommended facilities are Muntinlupa, San Fernando, Santo Tomas, Rosario, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Tanauan, and Cebu City.
Metro Manila’s middle-class Gen Zs and Millennials have expressed growing concern over the impact of inflation during the second quarter of 2023, according to a survey conducted by the 
To cope with the financial strain, many respondents have turned to loans. Of the surveyed individuals, 71% reported having outstanding loans. To augment their incomes, 43% of respondents resorted to taking out additional loans in the past year. Among those who already had loans, 58% had to cut back on other expenses to meet their loan obligations, while 19% were forced to delay payments.
Regarding savings, 34% of participants expressed plans to increase their savings allocations to better prepare for the future, while 33% aimed to maintain their current savings pattern. However, 16% of respondents planned to reduce their monthly savings allocation due to inflationary pressures.
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