by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 6, 2022 | Business
The Internet & Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAP) has finally unveiled this year’s theme for the biggest and most anticipated Digital conference in the country.
DigiCon Valley 2022 will tackle the landscape of digital marketing transformation with brands, advertising professionals, and business leaders to celebrate innovation, problem-solving, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Philippine firms. Happening from October 10-14 from 9 AM to 1 PM PST, official delegates will be able to learn from four all-new tracks that tackle the different stages of innovation: Launchpad, Hypergrowth, Breakthrough, and Enterprise.
This year’s theme is an allude to the Gobi-Core Philippine Fund Ecosystem Report of 2021 which perceived that the growing startup scene in the country is ripe for it to finally become a key player in the technology sphere, in relation to its ASEAN counterparts.
The future for development and expansion is projected with optimism as logistics, e-commerce, and fintech sectors continue to rise locally, especially in a post-pandemic economy. It is expected that Philippine firms will raise more investments in the next three years versus the past five years combined.
Leading 100 speakers across the 65 sessions of the 5-day event, keynote Speakers include world-renowned marketing expert and academic, Mark Ritson; one of the most influential female entrepreneurs in the world and founder of the Huffington Post, Ariana Huffington; and the co-founder of Character Ventures and the inventor of the Design Sprint, Jake Knapp. More internationally-acclaimed speakers and guests are set to be announced soon.
After two years of virtual connections, DigiCon Valley 2022 is finally bringing back face-to-face networking through DigiCon After-hours. Held between 6-9 PM on select evenings across the city, major sponsors will host physical gatherings which promise to provide cocktails, entertainment, and speed networking, allowing delegates to reconnect with others in the industry.
Tickets are now available for purchase with the early bird discount of 40% off in limited supply. For more information and updates on DigiCon Valley 2022, visit www.digicon.com.ph and follow their social pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022 is co-presented by Angkas, and would like to thank Platinum sponsor Manulife Philippines and Tiktok; Gold Sponsor Investing in Women, an initiative of the Australian Government; and Silver Sponsor, Hepmil Philippines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 2, 2022 | Advocacy
Doing beauty differently is what Avon has been advocating for 135 years. This year, the #1 direct-selling beauty brand strengthens this movement during this year’s Pride Month, which annually celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, alongside their stories and experiences.
Avon Philippines, in partnership with comic artist Hulyen (@hulyen), produced a three-part comic series that illustrates Beauty for All, Avon’s advocacy that puts the spotlight on democratic beauty not just for women, but for everyone – regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or expression.
“I think everyone deserves to celebrate their own version of beauty especially if it makes them feel good about themselves,” shares Hulyen. “It’s really great that a major beauty brand like Avon is rallying behind this advocacy because it encourages you to be yourself and celebrate what makes you you.”
Each strip depicts issues faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. The comics were distributed to hundreds of thousands of Avon representatives in more than 190 branches across the Philippines, encouraging them to learn more and understand better the LGBTQIA+ community.
SOGIE 101
In this scene, an individual struggles to remember the various labels in the queer spectrum. A friend reassures her that it’s important to be open about learning new things.
It also provides context that Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (or SOGIE, for short) go beyond just the girl, boy, bakla, and tomboy that most Filipinos are more familiar with.
Marla
Another comic depicts a queer person who “magically” transforms into her true self when she’s with her friends. This has become a common experience with LGBTQIA+ individuals all over the world. According to Stonewall, only 46 to 47% of queer-identifying individuals feel open and confident to share their sexual orientation or gender identity with their families. Likewise, allies of the community should help create safe spaces where queer individuals can open up and express their true selves.
Beauty for All
The last comic visualizes Avon’s commitment when it comes to promoting Beauty for All. It depicts an Avon representative who managed to provide quality beauty and self-care products for her customers, allowing them to truly enjoy their version of beauty no matter what their SOGIE.
“I have learned so much about Pride and how times are changing. It’s something new to me, but we have family and friends who are LGBTQIA+. Understanding them is a great way to show how much we respect them, and through these, I understand them even more,” Avon Representative Jennifer Limyu shares after reading the comics about the LGBTQIA+ community.
Max Closa, Avon Philippines’ Business Development Manager, welcomes Avon’s efforts to rally behind its employees in causes that involve them. “I’m so proud and thankful to be a part of a company that supports the LGBTQIA+ community. The changes might be gradual but it’s already a huge step for us,” Closa shares.
Miss Trans World 2020 Mela Habijan
In line with the advocacy, Avon Philippines also recently held a SOGIE Sensitivity Seminar for Associates at their main office. Miss Trans World 2020 Mela Habijan spoke at the event where she discussed SOGIE, the different issues the community is facing, and how one can be a better ally. The trans beauty queen, host, and actress also made a SOGIE explainer video.
To further extend its efforts in inclusivity, Avon Philippines also supported members of Manila’s Drag community with various products like the Limitless collection (the first gender-free intimate apparel in the country). The company also reached out to the Home for the Golden Gays, which provides support and care facilities for elderly LGBTQIA+ people.
“Avon continues with its commitment to creating a better world for everyone. With Avon, everyone can be brave, brazen, and beautiful all at the same time because Beauty is for All — and that is how it should be in the years to come,” Avon PR and Communications Lead Marion Limlengco says.
Visit www.avon.ph or like and check out Avon Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.
About Avon
Avon has been doing beauty differently for 135 years. Avon is a company that connects people, using the power of beauty to transform lives for the better. Millions of independent sales Representatives across the world sell iconic Avon brands through their social networks, building their own beauty businesses on a full- or part-time basis. Avon stands for gender equality, and we believe in listening to women’s needs, speaking out about issues that matter, and creating positive change. Through Avon and the Avon Foundation, we’ve donated over $1.1billion, with a focus on tackling gender violence and breast cancer. Avon is part of the Natura & Co Group. Learn more at www.avonworldwide.com.
Follow Avon Philippines by clicking on the icons below:
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 28, 2022 | Banking and Finance
In an effort to accelerate the digital transformation of the fishery sector, GCash, the country’s leading mobile wallet, joined forces with Rare Philippines to empower the financial capabilities of the fisherfolk community in Sipaway Island in Negros Occidental.
Rare Philippines is an international conservation organization that helps communities adopt sustainable behaviors toward their natural environment and resources.
“It is vital that we empower our local fishery sector by providing them access to digital financial services that can help them thrive and grow their livelihood in the new normal. Our partnership with Rare Philippines can help educate and provide access to local fisherfolk on relevant products and services that can make their everyday lives better,” said GCash President and CEO Martha Sazon.
GCash and Rare Philippines will introduce GCash products and services to fisherfolk and vendors on the island. These GCash products include Send Money, Pay Bills, GSave for a savings account, and GLoans for loans of up to P25,000. Aside from providing them with a safe and convenient way of sending and receiving money, these products can also help them manage their budget for monthly bills and even empower them to start saving up for their future.
“Digital technology is indeed a very important factor in accelerating the transformation of the Philippine fishery sector. We are proud to work with GCash as we aim to further contribute to the government’s capacity-building efforts and make a difference in the lives of fishers and their families,” said Rare Philippines Senior Manager for Financial and Market Inclusion Flora Belinario.
With its clear vision of “finance for all,” GCash has also been advocating equal financial opportunities for other Filipinos, such as community organizations and micro, small, and medium enterprises so they can continue to grow their businesses and serve their customers amid the pandemic.
GCash previously launched its GCash QR payment feature with the Antipolo Market Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (AMTODA), Antipolo Sumulong College Lores Plaza Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (ASCLP TODA), and vendors at the Pasig City Mega Market and Farmers Market in Araneta City.
“In line with GCash’s vision of financial inclusion for all Filipinos, we also hold ourselves up to the highest standards, including the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) approach. From helping other leading companies to local communities of fisherfolk, we continuously strive to make each day better for all,” said Winsley Bangit, GCash Chief Customer Officer.
With over 60 million registered users to date, GCash continues to offer innovative, accessible, and relevant financial products and services for Filipinos to make their lives easier, better, and safer.
Not yet on GCash? Simply download the GCash app for free on Google Play or the App Store. For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
About GCash
GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Financial App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, customers can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,400k partner billers; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5M partner merchants and social sellers; cash-in and cash-out at 232k partner agent network; and get access to savings, credit, insurance and invest money all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.).
GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital financial inclusion programs impacting more than 60 million Filipinos in the country today.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 25, 2022 | Lifestyle Tips
Starting one’s first job is one of the most challenging periods for young professionals. There’s constant stress over their fear of rejection, too much pressure, and high expectations towards their tasks. Joining the workforce may be intimidating but with a few tips, they can face those fears and be awesome at work.
Always be prepared
There are always a lot of things to be juggled at work but they can be handled easily with some preparation. Lists are easy to make and follow, and they come in different formats. Some have straightforward lists that outline what they need to do in a day, arranged by level of importance. A common tip is to start with the hardest task first so it is out of the way. Another good tip is to outline weekly and plot deadlines and assign when they will be worked on. It is also advisable to finish tasks little by little to make progress.
Join workshops and training
It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the tasks that need to be done. There are workshops and seminars that teach fresh graduates the skills they need to succeed. Many companies offer free training, while there are those that cover the cost of signing up. It will also be helpful to watch videos on YouTube or read articles to up-skill and impress colleagues and bosses.
Have a reliable smartphone
Smartphones have now become extensions of work since they have a lot of productivity apps such as Notes and Google Workspace. It can serve as a second screen or a work device when on the go. Some considerations for a smartphone are a large screen that can display important files, a long battery life, and large storage.
Samsung’s Galaxy A23 and A13 are the ideal smartphones to help young professionals become more prepared and efficient at work.
Both the Galaxy A23 and A13 have a 6.6” TFT V-Cut Display, large enough to display reports or spreadsheets, and even online meetings.
The devices are also useful outside of the workplace. They sport a Quad Camera that captures various types of content with its 50MP main camera, which captures photos and videos in clear and vibrant detail. Both the devices can store all the important photo and video memories and even important files with 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded by up to 1TB. Lastly, a 5,000mAh of battery so there’s enough power to last the whole day.
Both smartphones are available in Awesome Black, Awesome Blue, and Awesome Peach, while the Galaxy A23 has an additional Awesome White variant. The smartphones are available in all authorized Samsung Stores and online for:
- Galaxy A23 (6+128GB) – PHP 13,990 SRP
- Galaxy A13 (4+128GB) – PHP 10,490 SRP
- Galaxy A13 (6+128GB) – PHP 11,490 SRP
Awesome deals for everyone
Purchase the new Galaxy A13 with flexible payment terms through participating credit cards for as low as PHP 1,784.33/mo at 0% interest for 6 months. Home Credit payment is also available and pays for as low as PHP 841/mo at 0% interest for 9 months. Both of these offers are available until June 30.
For more information about the Samsung Galaxy A23 and A13, visit samsung.com/ph.
Safe Samsung Shopping
Health and safety protocols are strictly followed in Samsung Experience Stores to keep consumers and employees safe. Adhering to the guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Samsung has implemented the mandatory use of face masks and performs frequent sanitation in all stores.
Samsung Experience Stores also has unique QR health declaration codes to promote a safe and contactless contact tracing process. Product demonstrations are done side-by-side instead of face-to-face while keeping the required safe distance of one (1) meter to make sure everyone is socially distanced.
To find the nearest Samsung Experience Store, visit samsung.com/ph/samsung-experience-store/locations.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 23, 2022 | Technology
GCash, the country’s no.1 mobile wallet app, reminded users to exercise more caution and vigilance as various online scams continue to proliferate.
Customers must watch out for “Account Takeover” wherein log-in details are compromised due to phishing scams. Scammers often use fake social media accounts and pretend to be GCash agents offering to solve their tickets or concerns with their GCash wallets, but the ultimate goal is to steal money from the victims.
Swindling is another modus that happens when a scammer tricks a user into buying a service or product and paying for it using GCash but will not deliver the item that has been paid for.
Another frequent cause of unauthorized charges is when GCash users allow other people, sometimes family members, access to their accounts. Oftentimes, a friend or family member would use their account to purchase or subscribe to a service without the owner’s knowledge.
In light of these scams, GCash has several reminders to help ensure users can protect their accounts from fraudsters:
To avoid account takeovers, users should never give out any information about their accounts like MPINs and One-time Pins (OTP) and only transact with official channels like the GCash Help Center (help.gcash.com) or the GCash hotline: 2882. It’s also important for users to make sure they verify transactions within the GCash app to avoid giving important information to fake websites.
To avoid being swindled online, be sure to research and read reseller reviews on the product you’re buying and who you’re buying it from.
To avoid unauthorized charges and risks, GCash is reminding users to never share account details with other people and to always check before they tap ads or when downloading from applications they do not trust.
GCash also urges its users to stop the practice of lending or selling their accounts to receive potentially illicit remittances from others. This is commonly called the “money mule” scam. Account owners that are caught doing this illegal act can be prosecuted under the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2021.
Aside from warning its users against various scams, the leading e-wallet is also working in tandem with the National Bureau Investigation (NBI), the Philippine National Police – Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), and PNP – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) to uncover online scams and apprehend perpetrators. So far, there have been a total of 17 arrested and imprisoned fraudsters.
Likewise, GCash maintains top-notch security systems and has tightened its user verification and onboarding process. From January 2021 to March 2022, the mobile wallet app has blacklisted 14,752 wallets due to “Account Takeover”, 4,609 wallets for swindling, and 923,164 for identity fraud.
“At GCash, we remain relentless in our pursuit against online scamming. We will continue to work closely with various authorities to fight scammers and protect our legitimate users. We are constantly upgrading our security systems, as well as educating our customers so that they can use the GCash app without worries,” said Martha Sazon, GCash President and CEO.
With its #GCheckMuna campaign, GCash also empowers users to be more vigilant in the face of scams. The company also just recently introduced the beta version of Gigi the chatbot to immediately help customers with their various scamming concerns/incidents. GCash users may also visit the Help Center at help.gcash.com to report a phishing scam anytime. Fake pages will then be taken down within 24 hours.
In addition, users can activate biometrics login such as face recognition and digital fingerprint to ensure that only they can access their GCash account. To do this, they just need to enable biometrics on the settings of their device and proceed to their GCash profile. After tapping “Biometrics Log-in,” a six-digit authentication code will be sent to the device. After submitting the code, the face recognition and fingerprint can now be used to log in on the GCash app.
Committed to keeping its platform secure, GCash also implements the Customer Protect Program, which is designed to help detect and prevent fraudulent activities. It also ensures users will not be held liable for unauthorized transactions made on their accounts.
To know more, visit www.gcash.com. If you need assistance or would like to report a scam, visit help.gcash.com.
About GCash
GCash (G-Xchange, Inc.) is the #1 Financial App in the Philippines. Through the GCash App, customers can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills at over 1,400k partner billers; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 5M partner merchants and social sellers; cash-in and cash-out at 232k partner agent network; and get access to savings, credit, insurance and invest money all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt (Globe Fintech Innovations, Inc.).
GCash was recognized by The Asian Banker (TAB) and by the IDC in 2021 for its outstanding digital financial inclusion programs impacting more than 60 million Filipinos in the country today.
In this scene, an individual struggles to remember the various labels in the queer spectrum. A friend reassures her that it’s important to be open about learning new things.
With its #GCheckMuna campaign, GCash also empowers users to be more vigilant in the face of scams. The company also just recently introduced the beta version of Gigi the chatbot to immediately help customers with their various scamming concerns/incidents. GCash users may also visit the Help Center at help.gcash.com to report a phishing scam anytime. Fake pages will then be taken down within 24 hours.
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