by Ferry Bayu | Sep 17, 2025 | Business
Manila, Philippines – Dr. Gerald Pacanan: The Smart Doctor Who Made It Easier for Babies to Be Born in Southeast Asia
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is a Filipino-Indonesian doctor who specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine. He has made a huge difference in maternal health care in Southeast Asia.
Dr. Pacanan’s father is Filipino and his mother is Indonesian. He grew up in a multicultural setting that impacted his view of the world and his caring approach to healthcare. He traveled to a famous medical school in Europe to study medicine and graduated with honors. He learned more advanced information, new techniques, and how to better care for patients while studying and training abroad.
So far, his most notable achievement is coming up with a new technique to make work safer, faster, and less unpleasant. People all around Southeast Asia have hailed this procedure a big step forward in obstetric practice. This novel idea combines the best medical practices with a focus on the patient. This makes things much safer and easier for both women and babies.
Healthcare professionals say this achievement will change the game for communities all around the region, especially in rural and neglected areas where maternal and newborn death rates are still a big problem. Dr. Pacanan’s procedure not only makes giving delivery easier and safer, but it also saves a lot of lives.
People like Dr. Pacanan not only because he is a great doctor, but also because he is kind and humble. People who work with him and patients say he is a brilliant doctor with a big heart. He knows a lot about medicine and cares about his patients. His work still inspires young doctors and makes mother and child health care better.
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is now one of the most influential people in medicine in Southeast Asia. His breakthrough has changed the way thousands of women give birth, showing both ingenuity and compassion in medicine. Dr. Gerald Pacanan’s Profile
Dr. Gerald Pacanan is a very experienced and caring Filipino-Indonesian doctor who is well-known in the disciplines of obstetrics & gynecology, gastroenterology, and internal medicine.
Dr. Pacanan grew up in a multicultural family in Indonesia. His father is Filipino and has lived in Indonesia for a long time. Gerald was born and reared there and went to school there. Because of this unique background, he can relate with people from many different walks of life, which makes him culturally aware and gives him a worldwide perspective in his medical practice.
This press release is brought to you by Rapport Philippines, a local news portal that shares news, press releases, social media insights, and survey content.
About Rapport Philippines
Rapport Philippines, formerly known as ManilaChannel.com, was established in 2012. It is an open portal for journalist content contributors with the objective of delivering quality news in the Philippines.
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 16, 2025 | Business
MANILA, Philippines — A new chapter in urban mobility begins as Xpress Super App formally partners with Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), the operator of the LRT-1 system, to address pressing commuter concerns around safety, transparency, and accessibility in and around train stations.
Leading the Future of Sustainable Transportation
Xpress Super App is an all-in-one mobility and lifestyle platform that connects passengers to accredited and professionally trained drivers, ensuring safe, transparent, and fairly priced rides. The app offers both moto taxi (2W) and car taxi (4W) options, all fully accredited by the LTFRB to meet the diverse commuting needs of Filipinos.
Building on its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, Xpress is proud to introduce its new EV Taxi service featuring BYD electric vehicles. This eco-friendly fleet underscores the company’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions while providing passengers with modern, comfortable rides. The EV taxis deliver a quieter, cleaner alternative to traditional vehicles, supporting Metro Manila’s sustainability goals while maintaining Xpress’s high standards of safety and service quality.
Every trip booked through the Xpress Super App is fully insured, giving commuters peace of mind and protection in the unlikely event of an accident—a key safeguard absent from unregulated services.
Efficient Service and Quick Response Times
At designated LRT terminals, Xpress dispatches rides quickly and efficiently, with bookings assigned only to legitimate, trained drivers. Outside station areas, allocation times may vary depending on driver availability, but the assurance of legality, safety, and accountability remains constant.
The initiative, launching at Dr. A Santos (formerly Sucat) LRT-1 Station, directly addresses long-standing commuter frustrations, particularly the prevalence of “habal-habal” or unregulated motorcycle and car operators. While commuters have relied on them for speed and convenience, overpricing and inconsistent fares remain major pain points. For instance, a 2 km trip with Xpress costs ₱50, while the same ride with a habal-habal may range from ₱100 to ₱150.
By contrast, Xpress guarantees fair pricing, transparent rates, and accredited drivers—offering a safer, more reliable alternative.
Enhanced Security and Access Control
Through this partnership, LRMC and Xpress are establishing a secure, organized system that restores confidence in commuting. At Dr. A Santos Station, a boom gate now regulates vehicle entry and exit, with stationed security personnel ensuring only accredited rides like Xpress are allowed to operate within the premises.
A dedicated terminal for Xpress passengers has also been set up for safer, more convenient access. Other accredited platforms may enter with confirmed bookings, provided they follow station guidelines.
At its core, this collaboration delivers what commuters have long demanded: last-mile transport that is legal, safe, and fairly priced.
Addressing Critical Transportation Gaps
Metro Manila’s LRT system efficiently moves passengers across long stretches of the city, but the “first and last mile” gap—getting to and from stations—remains a daily struggle. By securing legal and organized last-mile options, Xpress and LRMC are directly addressing this critical need, ensuring smoother and more dependable commutes.
The pilot at Dr. A Santos Station is just the beginning. Plans are underway to replicate the setup across the entire LRT-1 and LRT-2 lines, signaling a long-term vision for safer, more transparent mobility for millions of Filipinos. Xpress drivers also undergo Department of Tourism-accredited training, further reinforcing passenger safety and professionalism.
Building a Sustainable Future for Public Transport
This partnership underscores the shared commitment of LRMC and Xpress to commuter safety, transparent pricing, and legal operations. Together, they are laying the foundation for a transport ecosystem where passengers are no longer dependent on unregulated alternatives but instead enjoy structured, secure, and fairly priced rides.
This is more than a partnership—it is a promise: a future of public transport where safety, fairness, and trust are guaranteed for every Filipino.
Limited-Time Offer for New Users
New to Xpress? Experience safe, legal, and eco-friendly transportation with an exclusive 50% discount for first-time users. This promotion applies to all vehicle types but is only available until the end of 2025. Don’t wait—download the Xpress app today!
For more information about Xpress services and station partnerships, visit www.xpress.ph or download the app.
For LRMC updates and station information, visit www.lrmc.ph.
This press release has also been published in VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 16, 2025 | Business
An Australian audit confirmed six flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro are real but noted construction flaws and safety issues. Auditors urged stricter contractor checks and reforms, while the DPWH filed graft cases against officials and contractors over project anomalies.
A consulting firm in Australia has certified that there are six flood control projects in Oriental Mindoro, putting to rest rumors that the projects were “ghost projects.” Auditors did, however, point out a number of areas that need work.
“We checked that all six projects are actual, working, and at different levels of development by going to the sites. Annabelle Tungol, Master Environmental Auditor and licensed chemical engineer at Artea Green Ventures, said, “These have been audited and cleared of ghost project claims.” The Australian government website says that Artea Green Ventures offers compliance auditing, independent audits, ESG consultancy, and sustainable infrastructure solutions in both Australia and the Philippines.
The company works with Movementsoft Inc., an ICT provider that is now working with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Philippines. Tungol and four other auditors looked at six dikes and esplanades in Naujan that had been accused of being fake projects. Auditor Collin McPherson of JCM Solutions pointed out some problems from an Australian safety management point of view.
“Some problems have to do with safety gear for workers, exclusion zones, and design elements.” McPherson said, “Changes in these areas could make the projects last longer and be more durable.” The audit assessment showed that the projects mostly met design standards, with solar-powered lights and erosion protection already in place. It also discovered proof of active oversight and continuous talks with the community. Still, auditors found flaws in specific areas, such as exposed rebar, cracks in the concrete, and incorrect garbage disposal.
Most of these concerns were attributed to one unnamed contractor. The report noted that “even though ghost project claims were proven false, systemic reforms are still needed to protect the long-term integrity of flood control infrastructure.” The audit suggested stronger evaluations of contractors, required safety training for construction workers, and frequent independent audits to make things more open and build public trust.
The DPWH has already said that officials and contractors who were supposedly involved in strange flood control measures in Oriental Mindoro could be charged with a crime. Sunwest Inc., St. Timothy Construction Corporation, Elite General Contractor, and Development Corporation are some of the companies that have been tied to this. Vince Dizon, the Secretary of the DPWH, personally checked on the projects, but he said it was hard to find at least three of them that were listed in the 2024 national budget.
The DPWH filed a complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday against 20 agency officials and four contractors for alleged corruption.
This press release is distributed by Rapport Philippines, an independent news platform established in 2012 and formerly known as ManilaChannel.com. It serves as an open portal for journalist-contributors, dedicated to providing credible and high-quality news coverage in the Philippines.
About Rapport Philippines
Rapport Philippines, which used to be called ManilaChannel.com, started in 2012. It is an open site for journalists to contribute content with the goal of providing good news in the Philippines.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 15, 2025 | Business
ARC Production announces the upcoming release of “Peace Be With Jo,” a compelling short film that poses the ultimate question: what would you choose between love and salvation?
Directed by the talented John Mella, the film navigates the intricate themes of identity, love, and faith struggles faced by Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in a contemporary Christian setting.
Starring:
Hans Bauyon and Gab Mendoza headline the film with powerful portrayals of the protagonists.
The dynamic cast includes:
Kath Rex
Beng Maximo
Princess Magusib
Angelo “Boost Gio” Bañaga of Kwento Co
Ryann Vicente
Aaron Mercene
Set against the backdrop of tradition and modern temptation, Peace Be With Jo asks the audience a simple question:
“Pag-ibig o Kaligtasan?” Choose. “ (Love or Salvation? Choose.)
A Film About Faith, Empowerment and PWD Voices
The film not only explores the profound themes of faith and personal choice but also seeks to elevate the visibility of PWDs in society by giving them a platform to tell their stories.
Support the Film
Let us stand together in solidarity and support this groundbreaking project of inclusion, faith and humanity.
About Kwento Co
Kwento Co is a diverse and dynamic media and information literacy website. We are a team of accomplished content creators, artists, influencers, and young entrepreneurs passionate about helping micro and macro-sized businesses market their services through effective digital marketing strategies tailored to their brands.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 15, 2025 | Business
Quezon City, Philippines – August 24, 2025 – Coach Boost Gio, a rising actor and motivational speaker, graced the red carpet at the 37th PMPC Star Awards for Television. The event took place at the prestigious grand ballroom of the VS Hotel Convention Center in Quezon City.
The prestigious awards night, which is being organized by PMPC Star Awards Inc. in collaboration with BingoPlus and VS Hotel Convention Center, brought together some of the brightest stars on Philippine television. The strictly invitational event was another feather in Coach Boost Gio’s cap as he joined the country’s who’s who in celebrating outstanding TV achievements.
Hosted by the esteemed Boy Abunda, Pops Fernandez, Robi Domingo, Gela Atayde, and Elijah Canlas, the event featured stellar performances from Dingdong Avanzado, Jessa Zaragoza, Christian Bautista, Jed Madela, One Verse, and more.
Coach Boost Gio’s attendance at the event underscores his rising influence in the entertainment industry and his ongoing commitment to spreading positivity and empowerment through the arts. Because of his desire to combine acting with motivation, Gio keeps captivating fans’ and colleagues’ attention.
The 37th PMPC Star Awards for Television was directed by Vivian Poblete Blancaflor and supported by prestigious media partners and institutions.
About Kwento Co
Kwento Co is a diverse and dynamic media and information literacy website. We are a team of accomplished content creators, artists, influencers, and young entrepreneurs passionate about helping micro and macro-sized businesses market their services through effective digital marketing strategies tailored to their brands.
This Press Release has been published on VRITIMES
by Ferry Bayu | Sep 12, 2025 | Business
MAKILALA, COTABATO—The Province of Cotabato is emerging as a promising investment hub in Mindanao, with the opening of Alpha-3 Chicken Dressing Services Corp.’s semi-automated poultry dressing plant in Barangay Saguing, Makilala.
On 8 September 2025, Cotabato Vice Governor Rochella Marie “Ella” Taliño Taray personally visited and inspected the said facility, which began operations in August 2025 and is quickly positioning itself as a key player in Cotabato’s agro-industrial development.
Owned and managed by Ms. Bonilyn Espina-Duque (President) and Mr. Aries Christe Aaron Duque (Plant Manager), the dressing plant currently operates at a capacity of 25,000 heads per 12-hour shift and employs 150 local workers. During their meeting with the Vice Governor, the owners shared that they plan to expand into a two-shift operation, with a capacity of 50,000 heads and an estimated workforce of 250-300 employees.
In response, Vice Governor Taray encouraged them to consider expanding at Cotabato Agro-Industrial Park (CAIP), an agro-industrial hub located in M’lang, Cotabato that integrates crop processing, value-adding facilities, and logistics linkages to the soon-to-rise Central Mindanao Airport (CMA).
“You might want to consider putting up your additional facilities in CAIP. We are currently fast-tracking its registration with BOI and PEZA so we can offer greater incentives to investors like you. We are also working on proper zoning to cater to halal exporters and ensure that the facilities there are organized and attractive to investors,” she said.
The Vice Governor also added, “Alpha-3’s decision to invest here in Cotabato reflects the strong potential of our province as an agribusiness hub. We will continue to strengthen investment promotion in our province so we can also generate more jobs for our people.”
Alpha-3’s semi-automated system which features advanced conveyors, evisceration lines, and chilling units enables high-quality, flexible output while supporting contract growers across the province. This model strengthens supply chain efficiency and stimulates economic activity through employment generation and auxiliary industries such as feed supply, cold storage, and logistics.
Further, this facility highlights the growing confidence of private players in Mindanao’s food sector and underscores Cotabato’s role in advancing national priorities for food security and countryside development. As Mr. Duque puts it, “Our ambition is to build an integrated, locally rooted poultry enterprise that supports inclusive growth while meeting the rising consumer demand for safe, affordable chicken.”
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
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