by Penny Angeles-Tan | Nov 8, 2018 | Business
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) governor Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr. and Citi Philippines CEO Aftab Ahmed jointly announced the launch of the 16th Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards (CMA) during the recently held annual conference of the Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI).
Since its inception in 2002, the CMA awards program, a partnership among BSP, Citi Philippines and MCPI, with funding support from Citi Foundation, has been steadfast in its commitment towards recognizing entrepreneurs who have beat the odds, lifting themselves and others out of poverty. The awards also recognize the strong support from microfinance institutions as key partners, underscoring the role these organizations play in financial inclusion and enterprise development.
Nestor Espenilla, Jr., BSP Governor
In his keynote speech, governor Espenilla took note of how digital technology has made an impact in the development of microfinance in the country. “The digital revolution is fundamentally reshaping the financial inclusion landscape and traditional financial value chains,” he said. “Rapid digital innovations in financial technologies have led to the emergence of more dynamic business models.”
“Amidst all the talk of technology and disruption, it is only appropriate that we continue to showcase inspiring stories through the Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards, which has served as a vehicle for inspiring microentrepreneurs nationwide to achieve greater heights,” says Espenilla.
The event saw the introduction of the commemorative book “From Modest Dreams to Microentrepreneurial Triumphs,” which shares success stories of past CMA winners, inspiring tales of winning against adversity through hard work and perseverance.
Aftad Ahmed, Citi Philippines CEO
In his remarks, Citi’s Ahmed said: “The Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards are about the passion, energy, and commitment of microentrepreneurs who want to do better for themselves and their families. At Citi, we are proud to help people pursue their dreams because we are committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work.”
Governor Espenilla and Aftab Ahmed serve as co-chairpersons of the CMA National Selection Committee. Other members include industry and community leaders such as:
- Ayala Corporation president Fernando Zobel de Ayala;
- RFM Corporation president and CEO Jose Ma. Concepcion III;
- GMA Network, Inc. chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe Gozon;
- former Philippine Daily Inquirer chairperson Marixi Rufino-Prieto;
- DTI secretary Ramon Lopez; SPARK! Philippines trustee Imelda Nicolas;
- SM Investments Corporation vice chair Teresita Sy-Coson;
- Voyager Innovations, Inc. president Orlando Vea;
- National MSME Development Council-Mindanao Private Sector representative Mary Ann Montemayor; and
- University of the Philippines Diliman chancellor Dr. Michael Tan.
The awards are open to microenterprises with business assets up to PhP3 million. The award categories are Microentrepreneur of the Year Award, regional awardees from the three major island groups (Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao), Youth Microentrepreneur of the Year, and special awards for agri micro-business, community leadership, and green/sustainable business.
The national winner of the Citi Microentrepreneurship Awards will receive PhP200,000 while the three regional awardees, the youth awardee, and special awardees will each get PhP100,000. The loan officers and MFI branches of each awardee are also given a cash incentive of PhP10,000. Semi-finalists will receive a cash incentive of PhP10,000.
In addition to cash prizes, long-term sustainability of the winning microenterprises is of vital importance, thus, entrepreneurship training and mentoring is also provided at the Citi Microenterprise Development Center.
About Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is the central bank of the Republic of the Philippines. It was established on July 3, 1993 pursuant to the provisions of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and the New Central Bank Act of 1993.
The BSP took over from the Central Bank of Philippines, which was established on January 3, 1949, as the country’s central monetary authority.
The BSP is committed to promote and maintain price stability, a stable financial system, and efficient payment and settlement system, conducive to a balanced and sustainable growth of the economy.
Since 2000, the BSP has played a key role in increasing access to financial services to the entrepreneurial poor by mainstreaming microfinance in the banking sector. In 2007, the BSP embraced the goal of financial inclusion as a way of bringing the financial system closer to all Filipinos, especially to the financially underserved and unserved.
The overall vision is to build an inclusive financial system where there is effective access to a wide range of appropriate financial products and services for all filipinos. The Philippines is known for having one of the best regulatory frameworks for microfinance, and as a global leader in terms of having a conducive environment for financial inclusion.
About Citi Foundation
The Citi Foundation works to promote economic progress and improve the lives of people in low-income communities around the world. We invest in efforts that increase financial inclusion, catalyze job opportunities for youth, and reimagine approaches to building economically vibrant cities. The Citi Foundation’s “More than Philanthropy” approach leverages the enormous expertise of Citi and its people to fulfill our mission and drive thought leadership and innovation.
About Citi
Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions.
Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management.
Additional information may be found at:
About Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc.
The Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI) is the national network of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and support organizations in the Philippines advocating sustainable, innovative, and client-responsive solutions to poverty in the country.
MCPI is currently comprised of 61 members (48 MFIs, 2 regional networks, and 11 support organisations) which account for 80 percent of the microfinance sector in the Philippines. Its key programs include advocacy, capacity building for MFIs, social performance management and client protection in microfinance, knowledge management, and network development.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 11, 2018 | Business
Concentrix Philippines officially opened its 9th contact center featuring the most advanced amenities at the Exxa Tower in Bridgetowne, Quezon City.
The new office occupies seven floors with 18,000-square-meter space and highlights the company’s focus on attracting the best possible talents by creating a live-work-play environment. It has a modern wellness center, day care hub and beauty salon.
The facility showcases innovative technology like a reward dispensing machine for top performers, state-of-the-art operations area with collaboration corners, mobile laboratory, modern lounge rooms, private acoustic spaces and learning pods.
Concentrix’s newest site is close to major transport systems, top schools and universities, as well as large residential areas and lifestyle support services. Exxa Tower is part of a larger campus project Concentrix has planned at Bridgetowne. The site complements five Concentrix campuses in other parts of Metro Manila and in the cities of Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Davao and Cebu.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 16, 2018 | Business
Citi, the country’s leading foreign bank, remains positive about economic growth in the Philippines despite current global market volatility. At a series of mid-year outlook events, Citigold clients heard expert views on the current market environment and implications for investment strategy shared by Citi and guest speakers.
Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Head of Citi
Citi’s consumer banking head Manoj Varma opened the sessions and explained the importance of understanding risks and opportunities when investing. Varma said, “Citigold clients look for trusted advice and up-to-date information, especially during times of market volatility.”
Ramon, Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head
According to Ramon Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head, market data shows that we are in the midst of the second longest and third strongest equity bull market since 1970. Recent market volatility has been primarily caused by rising interest rates, potential trade wars, and geopolitical tensions.
“Despite market concerns, there appear to be opportunities in technology, financials, healthcare, and industrials due to continued earnings growth in these sectors,” said Tejero.
The economic climate in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Citi believes the country’s economic growth momentum will be sustained in the coming years. Citi forecasts GDP will grow by 6.8% in 2018 and 6.7% in 2019. A primary source of growth will be the government’s infrastructure program.
Citi Philippines consumer banking head Manoj Varma (2nd from right) joined speakers who shared their expertise with Citigold clients at the 2018 Mid-Year Market Outlook (L-R): Kelvin Lam of Allianz Global Investors, Anis Tiasiri of J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Julian Tarrobago of ATR Asset Management Inc., and Ramon Tejero of Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines Inc.
However, businesses and consumers are showing cautious optimism on the back of ongoing inflation concerns. Citi expects inflation to top 5.3% in the third quarter of 2018 before declining to below 5.0% in the following quarter.
“Investors can focus on diversification across asset classes and geographies and income themes while watching out for tactical opportunities,” concluded Tejero.
Citi Philippines Retail Bank head Rene Aguirre (right) welcomes clients to the 2018 Mid-Year Outlook along with Citigroup Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines president Lester Cruz.
“The world is indeed shrinking and when, where, and how we invest is largely influenced not only by domestic factors but also by global market events,” said Rene Aguirre, Citi Retail Bank head. “As trusted advisors, we help our clients grow and protect their wealth. In recent months, 10 new investment products have been launched and digital innovations continue to be developed, such as the recently unveiled next-generation Citi mobile app.”
For more information, visit www.citibank.com.ph.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 15, 2018 | Business
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed has once again bagged awards from yet another prestigious award-giving body, the 2018 Philippine Quill Awards held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed, which received the merit award for Communication Management under the Corporate Social Responsibility category, aims to help Filipino senior high school students achieve better sight by providing free eye check-ups and giving free eyeglasses to those in need.
The Eye Can Succeed campaign is a program launched last year by Essilor Vision Foundation (EVF), the philanthropic arm of Essilor which is committed to eliminating poor vision and providing underprivileged people the opportunity to live a better life through better sight.
The Philippine Quill Awards is presented by the local division of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), and honors dedication, innovation and passion of communicators on a global scale. For more information, visit Essilor’s website at www.essilor.com.ph, and follow @EssilorPH on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 1, 2018 | Business
Discovery Country Suites has been shortlisted along with some of the world’s best hotels for Haute Grandeur’s Global Hotel Awards.
Haute Grandeur is an independent award-giving body that recognizes the best hospitality experience from across 7 continents, 172 countries, and 90 categories.
To be awarded by Haute Grandeur, different factors are taken into consideration, such as rooms, food & beverage, service, overall hotel facilities, location, ambiance, design, unique guest experience, online presence, guest reviews, among others.
Discovery Country Suites
As a part of The Discovery Leisure Company’s roster of hotels and resorts, Discovery Country Suites provides a calm respite for its guests with their picturesque view of Taal and its trademark outstanding service.
As a seven-suite manor home, one of the things that separate Discovery Country Suites from most hotels is its exclusivity. Those who enter the property can immediately feel the distinctive feeling of home. From the personalized service, elegant suites, a signature experience of wine and cheese at sundown, to the sumptuous dishes of Restaurant Verbena, a stay at Discovery Country Suites is a unique experience in itself.
Being shortlisted for a prestigious award is already an honor for Discovery Country Suites, but excellence has always been imparted in their roots. Guest ratings are an important part of winning the award, which is why guests are encouraged to share their honest feedback through various travel websites. Winners will be announced on November 1, 2018.
Discovery Country Suites is located along 300 Calamba Road, San Jose, Tagaytay City, 4120 Philippines.
For inquiries and reservations, call (02) 5298172, email re**********@***************om.ph or visit http://www.discoverycountrysuites.com.
About Discovery Country Suites
The Suites
With seven elegant and unique suites that radiate the feeling of home with the view of Taal Lake and Volcano right at its window, Discovery Country Suites offers a relaxing stay for guests looking for a Tagaytay getaway.
Dine in at Restaurant Verbena
Inside the property is Restaurant Verbena – serving up fresh dishes and staying true to its country contemporary cuisine tied together with the “Service that’s All Heart” Discovery has always been known for.
With so much to explore in Tagaytay, Discovery Country Suites neighbors some of the country’s best golf courses, flower farms, spa resorts, and concept restaurants.
Stay up to date and follow us:
- Facebook: /DiscoveryCountrySuites
- Twitter: @DCSTagaytay
- Instagram: @discoverycountrysuites
About Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards
The Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards was established as an independent and unbiased initiative to honour the very highest achievements from across the global hotel industry in 2014, recognising exceptional contributions by outstanding hotels with Marinique De Wet as CEO at the helm.
This prestigious Awards system is exclusive to the Haute Grandeur brand, and considered without equal because of its method. Unbiased results are guaranteed by placing emphasis on quality feedback from guests, rather than quantity of votes by a panel of judges or general public.
A wealth of experience and thorough understanding of the global hotel and spa Awards industries result from 10 years’ hands-on experience in operations – including her role as Managing Director of two highly successful international luxury hotel & spa Awards brands, and Editor of numerous industry-related publications.
Marinique de Wet, CEO
As a solutions-driven and insightful individual, she identified the need for an absolute transparent rating system due to industry concerns with existing systems in recent years.
“I wanted to improve existing global Awards concepts to offer a more alternative system, where participants are guided on how they can improve on their existing service levels as part of the recognition process”, shares Marinique. “Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards is focused on fairness and transparency that form the basis of any credible Awards system.”
The Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Awards promise to raise service delivery levels by means of awarding only the very best in the industry. It aims to focus on hotels that do not want to win the “average” award and celebrates the very best in hotel experiences across 7 continents, 172 countries and 90 categories. Participating hotels are generally seen as the benchmark in the industry as they create awareness about the value and importance of constantly raising the bar of excellence.
The value of a Haute Grandeur Global Hotel Award is powerful in terms of its ability to boost marketing and promises to have a direct impact on guests perceptions and revenue. It provides the much needed inspiration that hotels look for by identifying role model properties across all continents in order to further raise their current levels of service delivery to even greater heights.
The annual Awards Gala Ceremony where winners are revealed, is not only the most dazzling event of the year on the luxury hotel industry calendar, it also highlights the values of leadership, hard work, dedication, ambition and success. This event takes place each year in a different exotic location and offers hoteliers in attendance a new networking opportunities.
The Haute Grandeur Global Hotel AwardsTM provide travelers with a trusted source of Award winning properties to choose from when booking their holidays or business trips, knowing that our winners have been hand-picked and rewarded for overall excellence on many levels. The Awards aims to be regarded as the largest & most trusted Awards initiative in the world with a rating process that is transparent and fair.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 17, 2018 | Business
Listed property developer DoubleDragon Properties Corporation recently inaugurated the DoubleDragon Plaza, the flagship development in the progressive DD Meridian Park in the Bay Area, Pasay City.
DoubleDragon (DD) Plaza, certified in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), has over 130,000 square meters of leasable space and will form part of the DD Meridian Park complex with 280,000 square meters of leasable space. The property consists of four office towers and will have a capacity of 50,000 employees of its tenants.
Each tower houses seven floors of office space with their own individual elevator lobbies as well as access to the main retail area, which offers an additional 12,000 square meters. Aside from the variety of retail and dining tenants, the property is home to Islas Pinas, an indoor Filipino food and heritage village that showcases Filipino cuisine, culture, and handicrafts.
The DoubleDragon Plaza is the first phase of DoubleDragon’s 4.75-hectare DD Meridian Park. Currently underway is the completion of two more office towers called DoubleDragon Center East and West with a gross leasable space of 30,000 square meters, both slated to be finished within the year. Phases three and four consist of the DoubleDragon Tower, a premium Grade A office building, and the DD-Ascott Meridian Park, a luxury serviced apartment operated by Ascott with more than 300 units.
For more information, visit www.doubledragon.com.ph.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is the central bank of the Republic of the Philippines. It was established on July 3, 1993 pursuant to the provisions of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and the New Central Bank Act of 1993.
Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions.
The Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI) is the national network of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and support organizations in the Philippines advocating sustainable, innovative, and client-responsive solutions to poverty in the country.
Discovery Country Suites has been shortlisted along with some of the world’s best hotels for 
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