by Ferry Bayu | Sep 1, 2023 | Business
Easy Franchise unveils programs for PH entrepreneurs
EASY Franchise, the Philippines’ first go-to platform for franchising, kicked off its annual “Franchise Day” last August 28, marking the third consecutive year of the pioneering online franchise sale.
As the first and only online franchise sale in the country, Franchise Day aims to make franchising more accessible to Filipino business owners and investors.
Since its inception in February 2019, Easy Franchise has been helping interested franchisees to choose the right franchise or package that fits their needs.
Ongoing until September 28, interested franchisees can apply for franchises online and take advantage of deals and discounts, with savings of up to P100,000 on select franchises such as Mister Donut, Ate Rica’s Bacsilog, Razon’s by Glenn, Aquaskin, H2O Mineral Plus, Cha Tuk Chak milk tea and many more.
Easy Franchise also introduced its Franchise Incubation Program to help starting business owners expand and become the next big franchise. This program offers end-to-end solutions, distinguishing it from traditional franchise packages.
In addition, the Easy Franchise Brand Awards was also launched in this year’s edition of Franchise Day. These awards aim to recognize collaborative and fast-growing franchisor brands that are making notable contributions to the franchising industry.
For more information on the Easy Franchise Brand Awards winners and for franchising inquiries, visit www.EasyFranchise.com or Easy Franchise’s social media.
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 31, 2023 | Business
AirAsia Philippines, stakeholders, join hands vs. human trafficking
AirAsia Philippines’ PAA-TALK session – internal talk series shared and highlighted the best practices from BI, NBI, and MIAA in profiling, identifying, and handling possible victims of human trafficking. The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline deemed the topic necessary despite the fact that the Philippines remained as among the top countries recognized by the U.S. State Department for meeting its standard in eliminating human trafficking.
“AirAsia Philippines is one with the government in safeguarding our fellow Filipinos against human trafficking. There will be no room for complacency. To ensure the safety of our guests, we have 20,000 Allstars across ASEAN trained to identify signs of human trafficking during check-in procedures and onboard flights,” AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Country Head First Officer Steve Dailisan said.
Data from the Bureau of Immigration revealed that 6,000 Filipinos were suspected to have fallen victim to human trafficking for the first two months of 2023 alone. Of the said figure, only 0.6% were offloaded while the rest continued with their journey ending in other ASEAN countries and the Middle East.
MIAA Assistant General Manager for Security and Emergency Services Manuel Gonzales said international airport terminals, NAIA Terminals 1 and 3 are the usual gateway used by human traffickers victimizing mostly women and children.
For this reason, Airport Police are being trained to implement thorough inspection and surveillance. “We know that handling fraudulent travel documents happens before the victim enters the airport and even inside the terminal. We will intensify our monitoring and policing to save more Filipinos against human trafficking,” he said.
Immigration Spokesperson Dana Sandoval commended AirAsia’s efforts to combat human trafficking,saying the face of human trafficking has changed throughout the years.
Sandoval added that the bureau has also stepped up in its efforts to save human trafficking victims.
“We value our airline partners’ work in screening victims posing as legit travelers. For this reason, we also seek the understanding of travelers, especially those undergoing stringent verification by our Immigration Officials (IO). They should present themselves and allow them to be processed by our IOs,” she said.
National Bureau of Investigation International Airport Investigation Division Acting Chief Jimmy De Leon stressed the important role of airline personnel as the first line of defense against human trafficking. He added that being proactive is the key in saving lives.
“Forty individuals were saved for the month of August alone. Imagine the number of lives we will save if the airlines and the Inter-Agency Task Force will strongly work together,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, AirAsia Philippines showed support for the new travel guidelines, requiring guests to present more travel documents.
“We fully support the government’s intensified drive against human trafficking and understand the wisdom of our partners in its implementation to create a safer travel landscape for all. In fact, we too are strengthening awareness and training measures among our Allstars (employees) as part of our robust efforts to prevent and clampdown on trafficking across air travel,” Dailisan said.
“AirAsia has always been dedicated to enabling safe, seamless, and accessible travel experiences together with our partners in government. As a key airline bridging connectivity across the Philippines, ASEAN, and beyond, AirAsia Philippines remains dedicated to continually engaging all our stakeholders as we collectively work towards improving the travel and tourism industry and serving the best interests of every Filipino”, he added.
Dailisan said “Preventing Human Trafficking” is AirAsia’s third PAA-TALK internal talk series which is also part of the airline’s Corporate Sustainability and Social Responsibility that also addresses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 31, 2023 | Health and Wellness
Shattering Silence: Defending Teen Dreams Against Self Harm and Suicide
Amidst the celebration of academic excellence, the hidden struggles of youth remain obscured. Most mental disorders develop during childhood and adolescence, impacting lives significantly before age 25, demanding a comprehensive response. LearnX’s webinar, “Empowering Inclusive Learning: Preventing Teenage Self-Harm and Building Resilience,” scheduled for September 6th 2023, 5.30pm MYT, gathers experts like Dr. Daniel Fung to discuss teenage mental health complexities. This endeavor acknowledges the challenges teens face amid academic expectations and societal pressures, highlighting the need for collaboration among educators, parents, and policymakers. Register now at https://learn-onthego.com/sept-webinar-asia to join this transformative conversation shaping a brighter future for our youth.
Unseen Struggles Amidst Celebrated Excellence
In an age where academic excellence is often celebrated, the silent struggles of our youth remain obscured. Beneath the veneer of achievements, many teenagers grapple with the pressures of an increasingly complex world. A staggering reality reveals itself, most mental disorders develop during childhood and adolescence, impacting lives significantly before age 25, according to the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions (IAPCAPAP). A quarter of young people’s years are affected by mental and substance use disorders.
Empowering Inclusive Learning
“Empowering Inclusive Learning: Preventing Teenage Self-Harm and Building Resilience” – a webinar by LearnX is set to illuminate this pressing issue. Scheduled for 6th September 2023 at 5.30 pm MYT, the event assembles a distinguished panel of experts to discuss and dissect the complexities of teenage mental health.
Leading the Discussion: Dr. Daniel Fung, CEO of IMH Singapore and Notable Experts
At the forefront of this panel is Dr. Daniel Fung, the CEO of Institute of Mental Health Singapore, renowned for his work in mental health advocacy. Alongside him are the Managing Director of LearnX, Chandrakant Singh, Principals of DPS Faridabad and DPS Bangalore North, Sangeeta, an experienced educator, and Anurag Tripathi, the Secretary of CBSE. Collectively, they encompass a spectrum of insights, a necessary blend of medical, educational, and administrative perspectives.
Teenagers today navigate a landscape laden with academic expectations, societal pressures, and a digital realm that exacerbates the challenges of self-identity. Behind their façades, they bear emotional burdens that often go unnoticed. This webinar seeks to amplify their voices, to engage in a candid conversation about the struggles they face, and to collectively explore ways to empower them.
Creating an Environment of Well-being for Youth
While statistics highlight the gravity of the issue, it’s crucial to remember that each figure represents a life, a story, and a potential. Empowering our youth to build resilience is not a solitary task, it’s a collaborative mission that involves educators, parents, policymakers, and society at large. By acknowledging the challenges, we pave the way for open discussions and meaningful interventions.
“Empowering Inclusive Learning: Preventing Teenage Suicide and Building Resilience” is more than just a webinar; it’s a call to action. It’s an initiative that encourages dialogue, fosters understanding, and initiates change. As we collectively strive to create an environment that nurtures the emotional wellbeing of our youth, this webinar serves as a vital stepping stone.
To be a part of this transformative conversation and to contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve the mental health landscape for our teenagers, register for the webinar for free by visiting https://learn-onthego.com/sept-webinar-asia. It’s an opportunity to learn, share, and unite for a cause that holds the potential to shape young lives positively.
For more information, contact:
William Chua
Communications Manager, LearnX
wi*****@*******nx.academy
LearnX, established in 2020, emerged as a visionary response to the evolving educational landscape. LearnX began its journey to transform education by focusing on holistic growth and mental well-being of adolescents. Collaborating with esteemed institutions like AIM, NITI Aayog, and Institute of Mental Health Singapore, LearnX embarked on a mission to empower educators, bridging the gap between academic excellence and mental wellness. Fueled by a passion for transformative education, LearnX has quickly become a beacon for educators aspiring to shape the champions of tomorrow.
William Chua
+60193702408
wi*****@*******nx.academy
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 31, 2023 | Health and Wellness
Shaping a Brighter Tomorrow: Igniting Conversations on Teen Self-Harm Prevention
Amidst rapid change and increasing pressures, the World Health Organization’s studies have spotlighted the pressing concern of youth mental health. With suicide ranking among top causes of death for those aged 15 to 29, LearnX responds with a vital webinar titled “Empowering Inclusive Learning: Preventing Teenage Self-Harm and Building Resilience.” Scheduled for September 6th 5.30pm SGT, this event features an array of experts, including Dr. Daniel Fung, Dr. Chintan Vaishnav, Ms. Deepali Upadhyay, Mr. Amit Lodha, Mr. Anil Kumar, Mr. Manju Balasubramanyam, and Mr. Chandrakant Singh. The webinar aims to drive understanding and actionable solutions, equipping educators and parents to guide young minds toward emotional strength. Register for free at https://learn-onthego.com/sept-webinar-asia to contribute to the dialogue on teenage mental health and foster a resilient future.
Fostering Resilience: Empowering Youth Mental Health
In a world characterised by rapid change and increasing pressures, the mental health and wellbeing of our youth have emerged as paramount concerns. Recent studies by the World Health Organization, suicide is one of the top leading causes of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 years. These figures serve as a stark reminder that fostering resilience and addressing mental health challenges among teenagers is not just an option, it’s an imperative.
A Far-reaching Impact
The World Health Organization further emphasizes that suicides and suicide attempts have far-reaching impacts on families, friends, colleagues, communities, and societies. Suicides can be prevented, and significant efforts can be made at individual, community, and national levels to address this issue.
A Proactive Approach by LearnX
Recognising the urgency of this matter, LearnX is taking a proactive stance by orchestrating a thought-provoking webinar for the community entirely free, titled “Empowering Inclusive Learning: Preventing Teenage Self-Harm and Building Resilience” Scheduled for 6th September 2023, at 5.30 pm SGT, this event brings together a consortium of distinguished experts and educators to unravel the complexities surrounding teenage mental health.
An Expert Line-up
The webinar’s significance reverberates beyond its mere scheduling. By delving into the crux of teenage mental health issues, it aims to create a platform for dialogue, understanding, and actionable solutions. The featured panellists, a confluence of renowned figures reflects the breadth of this challenge:
Dr. Daniel Fung, CEO of Institute of Mental Health (IMH) Singapore
Dr.Chintan Vaishnav, Mission Director of AIM, NITI Aayog
Ms. Deepali Upadhyay, Program Director of AIM, NITI Aayog
Mr. Amit Lodha, Inspector General, Indian Police Service
Mr. Anil Kumar, Principal of DPS Faridabad
Mr. Manju Balasubramanyam, Principal of DPS Bangalore North
Mr. Chandrakant Singh, Managing Director of LearnX
This esteemed panel will dissect the multifaceted issues affecting our youth, from the pressure of academics to the emotional turmoil amplified by societal dynamics. The focus is on more than just identifying the problems; it’s about channelling collective insights towards actionable strategies. The goal is to equip educators, parents, and stakeholders with the necessary tools to guide young minds towards emotional strength and resilience.
Paving the Path Towards Mental Wellness
Amidst the bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the internal struggles teenagers may grapple with. This webinar serves as a call to acknowledge these struggles and collectively pave the path towards mental wellness. It’s an opportunity to join a chorus of voices that advocate for a future where the youth are nurtured, fortified, and resilient.
Register and Join the Conversation
To participate in this vital conversation and to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on teenage mental health, register for the webinar for free by visiting https://learn-onthego.com/sept-webinar-asia.
Let us unite in our mission to safeguard the emotional wellbeing of our youth, and in turn, forge a brighter, more resilient future.
For more information, contact:
William Chua
Communications Manager, LearnX
wi*****@*******nx.academy
LearnX, established in 2020, emerged as a visionary response to the evolving educational landscape. LearnX began its journey to transform education by focusing on holistic growth and mental well-being of adolescents. Collaborating with esteemed institutions like AIM, NITI Aayog, and Institute of Mental Health Singapore, LearnX embarked on a mission to empower educators, bridging the gap between academic excellence and mental wellness. Fueled by a passion for transformative education, LearnX has quickly become a beacon for educators aspiring to shape the champions of tomorrow.
William Chua
+6590490392
wi*****@*******nx.academy
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 31, 2023 | Business
Asiamoney affirms RCBC’s digital dominance with 4-Peat win
MANILA, Philippines – For a fourth consecutive year, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) was named once again the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital Solutions by Asiamoney for 2023, solidifying its position as the undisputed digital banking trailblazer in the country.
RCBC is recognized for its roster of Innovations with Empathy, an array of digital solutions which champions massive digital transformation and supports the financial inclusion efforts of the government, all whilst cultivating a culture of customer service excellence.
“RCBC isn’t just building sustainable, impactful, and inclusive digital finance solutions, it is also working hard to expand digital access for every Filipino by positioning itself as a strong ally of government efforts to increase financial inclusion; catalyzing digital payment transformations; bringing financial services to unbanked and underserved communities; and reinvigorating innovation,” Asiamoney said in a statement.
“Anytime RCBC reports earnings these days, analysts immediately turn to its digital transaction growth. Indeed, its digital focus is a key reason why RCBC is one of the fastest-growing banks in the Philippines,” Asiamoney added.
Asiamoney hailed RCBC as The Best Bank for Digital Solutions in the Philippines for delivering digital financial services based on a contextual banking strategy that aims to understand the Philippine landscape. Through this, RCBC has effectively implemented pioneering, high-impact, human-centric and demand driven digital financial innovations through RCBC Digital, RCBC DiskarTech, RCBC ATMGo and RCBC Moneybela Barangayan Banking, successfully marked with speed and scale.
“We are delighted with the recognition, and it further inspires us to serve more of our countrymen with our innovative digital solutions. And with our intensified use of data science and artificial intelligence, we continue to be committed to make a difference in the lives of our customers,” RCBC President and CEO Eugene S. Acevedo said.
RCBC’s series of wins come from the success of RCBC Moneybela Barangayan Banking, the country’s first physical-digital or phygital blended banking service. Fusing the warmth of physical banking with the ease of digital, RCBC’s banking experience support agents delivered vital financial services to thousands of rural barangays nationwide. Through MoneyBela, RCBC was able to introduce RCBC DiskarTech to low-income, geographically-disadvantaged communities. This was regarded as the world’s first multi-lingual financial inclusion super app in the vernacular catering to the mass market. The Philippines’ mass market is comprised of approximately 98 percent of the socio-economic class in the country. Financial services such as savings, fund transfers, mobile loads, telemedicine, insurance, and loans are made accessible and convenient to the Filipino mass market.
RCBC also launched ATMGo, the country’s first grassroots-based, bank agnostic, and last mile automated teller machine. ATMGo utilizes mobile point-of-sale devices to dispense financial services in remote and disadvantaged communities at village hotspots like the public markets, sari-sari stores, and public transportation hubs. RCBC is the only private universal bank to have the most extensive reach covering all provinces in the Philippines even covering the entire Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, boasting over 1,400 terminals deployed at the end of 2022 and poised to grow to 10,000 units or a projected year-on-year growth of 614%.
ATM Go has been the Philippine government’s trusted digital payment disbursement partner even before and at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues until present for the withdrawals of social welfare benefits for Conditional Cash Transfer household recipients under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the national government. Close to 70% of its transactions are cash withdrawals of Pantawid CCT household beneficiaries done in rural areas. Even conflict-prone communities such as Lake Sebu in South Cotabato are able to enjoy convenient and real-time banking within the comforts of their community.
Through RCBC’s phygital services, it was able to boost bank onboarding in underserved areas by 210%. ATMGo has reached a total of 13,116 barangays or approximately 31% of the 42,000 total barangays nationwide, only six months since the program was launched last November 2022.
“We are incredibly grateful to be recognized once again by Asiamoney for our dedication towards scaling inclusive digital finance, and our determination to make digital banking more accessible and convenient for every Filipino, especially empowering our micro, small and medium enterprises,” said Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer.
“Prestigious awards such as this validate our constant hard work and efforts in bringing banking to the people. This solidifies our unwavering commitment to providing innovative, socially-sensitive, and tailor-fit digital products and services that are not only cutting-edge, but most importantly, created with our clients’ needs in mind,” Villanueva added.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic impacts of the global health crisis, RCBC emerged as one of the fastest growing banks in the Philippines after it leaped from its 8th position in 2018 to 5th position in 2022 in the list of the country’s biggest banks in terms of assets.
RCBC is one of the country’s fastest-growing banks, and the most awarded for its banking innovations. It is now the Philippines’ 5th largest privately-owned universal bank that breached the P1-Trillion asset mark by the end of June 2022 despite the COVID-19 pandemic. RCBC’s continuing digital and business transformation further enhanced its value and reach. With this, RCBC has become the most awarded bank in the Philippines. Among its global and local recognitions include a four-peat award as the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital by Asiamoney, back-to-back wins for Best Financial Inclusion App by The Asian Banker’s Financial Technology Innovations Awards, and the YouTube challenger award for its viral and out-of-the-box digital ad campaigns generating combined views of over 17 million. Just recently, RCBC was also hailed as Grand Champion for Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion by the Bankers Institute of the Philippines.
Bianca Therese Libinting
bj*********@**bc.com
+63 927 130 5976
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