by Ferry Bayu | May 20, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 20 May 2024 – VRITIMES, a pioneering media technology startup based in Tokyo, proudly announces a strategic partnership with Global-Daily.com, a leading global news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of international news and events. This collaboration aims to enhance news distribution and enrich the quality of information available to readers worldwide.
Global-Daily.com has a reputation for delivering in-depth analysis and wide-ranging coverage on global issues, making it a perfect partner for VRITIMES. Together, they plan to leverage VRITIMES’s cutting-edge press release technology and Global-Daily.com’s extensive editorial network to create a more dynamic news delivery platform.
“We are thrilled to partner with Global-Daily.com,” said Ferry, CEO of VRITIMES. “This partnership aligns with our mission to innovate how news is distributed and consumed globally. By combining our technological capabilities with Global-Daily.com’s editorial expertise, we will enhance our ability to deliver engaging and insightful content to our audiences.”
by Ferry Bayu | May 19, 2024 | Business
The Author during his trekking along Mt. Daraitin and Tinipak River in Tanay, Rizal. Kaliwa Dam project is expected to inundate this place once operational.
By: Alec Hope Buenaventura
CLIMATE INJUSTICE – while the effects of climate change are global, the weight of its brunt is not the same for all. It is the least contributors, not the chief instigators, who carry the heavy repercussions. Perhaps, the Philippines has a degree of familiarity with this case. The water supply shortage in Metro Manila is actually brought about by climate change. Because of floods and droughts, Angat dam is expected to fall short of supplying clean water to the nation’s center, creating yet another sustainability problem on top of many other social issues the country is already facing. The proposed solution – the Kaliwa dam. However, have we ever considered the validity of this notorious project?
Recently, information has been brought to light that the Kaliwa Dam project is at 30%, that is according to the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System or MWSS. Though far from complete, its persistence poses a graver threat not only to the environment but also to the society. Intensifying climate injustice, a clear case of the so-called sustainability paradox.
As a concept, sustainability is an intersectional concept that one cannot pursue economic progress while sacrificing the environment, culture, morals, and other social and humanitarian aspects. Therefore, a paradox takes place when a certain policy, claims to be “sustainable”, yet only caters to one aspect of development, then compromising the others.
The Kaliwa dam project, for example, aims to resolve an economic issue. Ironically, it is at the expense of the rights of the Indigenous people or IPs and environmental sustainability.
I once had the opportunity to personally speak with one of the affected Indigenous people groups, the Dumagat Remontados of Mt. Daraitan, Tanay, Rizal. The Dumagats are exceptionally virtuous people, possessing rich community values that people from the city cannot easily understand. For them, nature is integral to life and their land is the source of their identity and culture. Not to mention their overflowing fountain of local wisdom, primarily in nature and farming.
As we talk, the Dumagats revealed that the perpetrators of the Kaliwa dam deliberately toned-down the ill-effects of the project. For one, contrary to the report of MWSS, that there will be only around fifty families affected, more than a thousand Dumagat families will forcibly be displaced from their homes if the dam is constructed. There were also no consultations transpired to which they might have expressed their dissent to this project as opposed to the reports.
Like it is not enough injustice, the dam will also inundate the Tinipak River, the river that gives life, so-sacred to them, a site where most of their religious rites take place.
As expected, the process of drilling and digging to build the dam will engender environmental perils as it destroys the ecological balance of the Sierra Madre. Destructions like these lead to weaker soil integrity which will make the mountain ranges prone to landslides. Sierra Madre also serves as Luzon’s frontier against typhoons entering the country. Thus, if the project continues, the threat of typhoons to hit the Philippines stronger is imminent.
To make matters even worse, this serves as a multiplier to the climate injustice that the Dumagats are already facing. Due to the already existing climate change, the Tinipak River suffers lower water level during dry-season, yet, it rises extremely when hit by a typhoon such as in the case of Bagyong Ulysses in the past year. Scientifically, the higher the heat index during the dry season increases evaporation rates explaining the low water level. On the other hand, during the wet season, this high surface temperature increases the amount of precipitation, increasing the amount of water to rainfall as experienced by the people of Daraitan.
Furthermore, being farmers, the Dumagats are highly-dependent on nature and climatic events. Irregular precipitation patterns and increase in temperature have made weather unpredictable. As a result, since their main commodity, rice, is sensitive to climatic factors, they are forced to replace it with a more resilient crop such as sweet potato.
Due to human activities, their ancestral land suffers further environmental degradation. For instance, tree-logging activities in Mt. Daraitan made the soil quality deteriorate. This resulted in an observable decline in crop yield, from one pail to a hundred sacks back then, to getting only one pail in return today. Biodiversity is also observed to decline as habitat bats and snakes were disturbed due to human mobility. These are all attested by the IPs.
The aforementioned events clearly show the Dumagats are already experiencing climate injustice. Rather than fixing the situation for them, the focus of high politics is in the center. This is the very reason as to why the Indigenous peoples are pushed to the margin of the society. If this continues violation of Indigenous people’s rights and right to a balanced and healthful ecology, rights we the sovereign Filipinos are sworn to protect under Article II of the 1987 Constitution.
To reiterate, sustainability is intersectional. All social and humanitarian aspects should be included in the pursuit of true development. Instead of pushing through with this, the best take is to achieve a compromise that would allow economic stability without endangering the natural environment and the rights of the Indigenous peoples.
Through an emotional message, one of the Dumagat leaders expressed that they are willing to share the waters of their land, as they were the ones blessed. However, the policy-makers need to heed them and consider the alternatives that they are willing to compromise.
Given its political implications, retracting this policy requires a strong political will from the current administration. Nonetheless, it is a must in order to achieve true sustainable development and climate justice.
To end, I urge you to ask again. Should we proceed with the Kaliwa Dam project? If your answer is still yes, then it is fitting to say that the ultimate ramification of climate change is not the extinction of the entire humanity but the sheer dissolution of our humanity.
by Ferry Bayu | May 17, 2024 | Business
Jakarta, May 16, 2024 – PT. Rimba Raya Conservation (Rimba Raya) welcomes the granting of its petition for the suspension of the implementation of the Minister of Environment and Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia Decree No: SK.1028/MENLHK/SETJEN/HPL.1/9/2023 dated September 15, 2023, through the Interim Decision No. 1 of the State Administrative Court (PTUN). This decision was rendered on Thursday, May 16, 2024, after a series of hearings that has considered various evidence and arguments from Rimba Raya.
This suspension decision is a significant and meaningful step for Rimba Raya in its efforts to continue the restoration and conservation functions it has developed and implemented in Seruyan Regency, Central Kalimantan.
“This decision gives us the opportunity to continue our restoration and conservation efforts to maintain the sustainability of the forest and ecosystem in Seruyan, Central Kalimantan,” said Haryo Ajie Dewanto, Technical Director of PT. Rimba Raya Conservation. “We are grateful to all parties who supported us throughout this process. Despite the reduced size of our team, Rimba Raya will strive to optimize its functions and ensure the welfare of the community by involving them in the protection of forest and land areas in Seruyan Regency.”
Rimba Raya has been implementing various programs for the protection of forest and land areas and community empowerment, benefiting the communities around the Seruyan River and the Seruyan forest ecosystem. With this suspension decision, Rimba Raya is committed to optimally strengthen these programs.
The suspension decision provides a positive signal for the spirit of ecosystem restoration and conservation in Indonesia, demonstrating that the commitment to environmental preservation must continue to be fought for. Rimba Raya hopes that the judicial process at PTUN will proceed smoothly until the issuance of a final decision. Rimba Raya looks forward to collaborating again with the government, communities, and other relevant partners to achieve shared goals in maintaining environmental sustainability in Indonesia.
by Ferry Bayu | May 17, 2024 | Business
Josephine Petra Lovensa, CEO of Secha Home, has been named “Emerging Woman CEO – Real Estate 2024″ by The Women’s Tabloid Award for her innovative approach to home improvement. Her consumer-focused vision eliminates renovation costs, reshaping the real estate industry and setting new standards for quality and value.
Josephine Petra Lovensa, the dynamic CEO of SECHA Home, is making waves in the real estate industry with her visionary focus on consumer ease and comfort. Known for her innovative approach, Josephine has introduced home improvement solutions that remove the burden of additional renovation costs, transforming the way people think about home and property upgrades.
This forward-thinking strategy has earned Josephine the distinguished title of “Emerging Woman CEO – Real Estate 2024” from The Women’s Tabloid Award – The Voice of The Women. This global accolade celebrates her dedication and innovation in real estate, as well as her strong leadership in reshaping perceptions of property buying and provision.
“I am deeply honored by this recognition from The Women’s Tabloid. It is a remarkable acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication of the SECHA Home team in creating innovative and affordable property solutions for the people of Indonesia,” Josephine stated.
She emphasized that awards for women in their professional roles are not just about external recognition but also about inspiring future generations. Each accolade a woman receives stands as proof that dreams, hard work, and perseverance can lead to the highest levels of success.
Josephine reaffirmed her deep commitment to the future of the real estate industry, expressing a strong determination to continually push boundaries, drive innovation, and maintain high-quality standards. Her vision is not only about achieving business success but also about delivering significant added value to every SECHA Home customer.
“We are committed to continually pushing boundaries in this industry and providing significant added value to our customers,” she asserted.
Previously, Josephine received the ‘E-Learning Chief Strategy of The Year 2022’ award from CEO Review during her tenure as Chief Strategy Officer at LingoTalk, an ed-tech startup focusing on personalized learning for corporations. These accolades underscore her success as a dynamic and visionary female leader across various industry sectors.
by Ferry Bayu | May 15, 2024 | Entertainment
Get ready for an exciting night of metal as Arch Enemy performs live in Kuala Lumpur at Zepp on May 19, 2024, promoted by Primuse. This high-energy concert features the melodic death metal band known for its intense guitar riffs, powerful drums, and fierce vocals by Alissa White-Gluz. Arch Enemy’s latest album, “Deceivers,” showcases their signature blend of intricate melodies and aggression.
Opening for Arch Enemy is Amalgama, an international metal project founded by Vlad “Graf” Ivoilov, featuring former Delain members Timo Sommers and Joey Marin De Boer. With four albums and extensive touring experience, Amalgama has performed with metal giants like Sonata Arctica, Judas Priest, and Blind Guardian.
Fans have the option to choose the exclusive Super VIP Experience, which includes a meet-and-greet with Arch Enemy, a signed poster, and a personal photo opportunity. Limited Super VIP packages are available and are expected to sell out quickly. Secure your package today to enhance your concert experience!
Prepare for an unforgettable night of metal as the legendary Arch Enemy takes the stage in Kuala Lumpur for an electrifying performance at Zepp on May 19, 2024. Promoted by Primuse, this explosive concert promises an adrenaline-fueled night of headbanging and powerful music, now made even more special with the addition of the dynamic opening act, Amalgama.
Arch Enemy, known for their melodic death metal style, has captivated fans worldwide with their blistering guitar riffs, thundering drums, and the fierce vocals of Alissa White-Gluz. Their latest album, “Deceivers,” continues to push the boundaries of the genre, blending intricate melodies with relentless aggression.
Joining Arch Enemy is Amalgama, an international metal project founded by Vlad “Graf” Ivoilov. This powerhouse band, featuring Timo Sommers and Joey Marin De Boer (both ex-Delain), has released four studio albums and numerous singles. Amalgama has performed over 450 concerts across countries like Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Ukraine. They have shared the stage with metal legends such as Sonata Arctica, Judas Priest, Lordi, Blind Guardian, and many others. Their recent festival runs, including performances at Masters of Rock and MetalFest, as well as opening for Judas Priest, have cemented their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the metal scene.
In addition to the main event, fans have the exclusive opportunity to partake in the Super VIP Experience with Arch Enemy. This rare chance allows fans to meet the band, receive a signed poster, and capture the moment with a personal photo opportunity alongside the metal icons themselves!
“The Super VIP Experience is a unique chance for fans to connect with Arch Enemy and create lasting memories,” expressed Marco Rios, CEO of Primuse Group. “We’re thrilled to offer this special opportunity, making the concert experience even more unforgettable for our fans.”
Limited Super VIP Experience packages are now available and anticipated to sell out swiftly. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet your metal heroes and take home exclusive signed memorabilia. Secure your Super VIP Experience package today and elevate your Arch Enemy concert experience to new heights!
For further details on how to purchase tickets and the Super VIP Experience, visit www.myticket.asia/events/arch-enemy.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 15, 2024 | Family and Pets
When mothers achieve a milestone with their babies, it becomes a shining moment that is remembered and celebrated by fellow moms. It could be as simple as finding a hack to get the baby to happily eat a nutritious snack, developing a trick to make the little one less fussy during bath time, or finding the perfect affordable diaper that greatly improves the baby’s protection and comfort. When a mom discovers any of these baby care hacks, fellow moms are quick to cheer her on with the words, “Ikaw na!”
This is the same expression of support that award-winning actress and in-demand host Dimples Romana wants to share with fellow moms of toddlers. As a mother of three, with her youngest, Elio, still a toddler, Dimples wants only the best for her kids so that they can have the freedom to move and be themselves.
New EQ Pants endorser Dimples Romana with Karl Po, Chief Operating Officer and Samuel Po, Chief Executive Officer of JS Unitrade Merchandise Inc.
Dimples and Elio have been selected as brand ambassadors for JS Unitrade’s leading brand, EQ Pants, a highly trusted diaper brand in the country. The new TV commercial (TVC) for EQ Pants, featuring Dimples and her son Elio, is now being aired during primetime TV.
“This is a beautiful milestone for me and my family because this is Elio’s first brand family,” Dimples exclaimed during her recent launch as the new endorser during the JS Unitrade Merchandise Inc., National Conference 2024.
“Whatever brand family we represent, that means we share the same values. So as soon as we found out about EQ Pants and the way they produce quality diapers while making them affordable and approachable for the Filipino family, of course, I had to say yes.”
In the new EQ Pants TVC, Dimples and the moms discuss the features of EQ Pants, emphasizing its new Bubble Top Sheet that reduces contact with the baby’s skin, helping prevent rashes. They highlight EQ Pants for its affordability and quality, with Dimples showcasing her baby using the product. The commercial concludes with Dimples inviting viewers to choose EQ with the tagline, “Ikaw na!” or, more fittingly, “EQaw na!”
Watch EQ’s newest TV commercial featuring Dimples Romana and her adorable son Elio below:
Like Dimples, moms can also have peace of mind with EQ Pants, which delivers the best diaper quality. Aside from the new feature, the Bubble Top Sheet, EQ Pants also feature a Soft Cottony Cover with a front-to-back Snug Fit to ensure a comfortable fit on the move, while its Super Absorbent Core keeps baby dry by drawing away urine.
Thanks to these mommy-and-baby-friendly features, Dimples has more time to do other important tasks. She shared, “The best thing about the EQ Pants is that Elio doesn’t have to change his diaper often, which gives me a lot of time for more important things like bonding with my family.”
Dimples Romana with fellow moms in the new EQ Pants TVC.
With Dimples and her fellow moms in mind, Michelle Acuña, JS Unitrade Marketing Director, said, “We understand the struggles and worries of moms when it comes to the comfort and protection of their babies or toddlers. EQ Pants is carefully designed with that in mind so mom and baby can feel at ease knowing that their baby can happily move around without worries of rashes or leakage for long hours.”
Experience your own “EQaw na!” moment with the EQ Pants readily available in retail stores nationwide and online platforms so that moms can have convenient access to purchase whenever needed.
For more updates, follow EQ’s social media accounts:
- Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/EQDiapers
- Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/eqbabydiapersph/
- TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@eqdiapersph
- YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@eqbabydiapers
by Ferry Bayu | May 15, 2024 | Business
Singapore, 15 May 2024 – VRITIMES, a trailblazing media technology company based in Tokyo, proudly announces a new strategic partnership with PRTimes.org, a leading platform for press release distribution and media outreach. This collaboration is designed to leverage both organizations’ strengths to transform how news and press releases are distributed worldwide.
PRTimes.org is renowned for its extensive network and efficacy in reaching journalists and media outlets globally, making it an ideal partner for VRITIMES. The synergy between VRITIMES’s innovative technology solutions and PRTimes.org’s robust distribution capabilities promises to enhance media communication strategies and extend their reach further than ever before.
“We are excited to join forces with PRTimes.org,” said Ferry, CEO of VRITIMES. “This partnership will allow us to combine our technological expertise with their expansive media network to provide unparalleled service to our clients. Together, we will set new standards in media distribution, enhancing visibility and impact for press releases across the globe.”
by Ferry Bayu | May 14, 2024 | Business
Pampanga, 08 May 2024 — Emerge, the pioneering digital marketing powerhouse in Central Luzon with a stellar record of success in enhancing various brands’ online presence, proudly announces the appointment of Ms. Carissa Coles Noromor, Certified Professional Marketer (CPM Philippines) as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Ms. Noromor, with over a decade of experience in the digital and social media marketing arena, has built an illustrious career. She started as a copywriter for an e-commerce company in 2011, transitioned into an SEO Specialist, and then became the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Emerge. Her passion for delivering immediate results led her to specialize in pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, excelling in creating impactful campaigns and driving long-term growth.
As Ms. Noromor brings forth her expertise and experiences to lead Emerge into the future, she emphasizes the agency’s commitment to omnichannel marketing and the 10-year vision plan. “Our plan revolves around our new manifesto: ‘Omnichannel marketing is the way to go!'” she affirmed.
Ms. Noromor also discusses the advantages and opportunities that await Emerge’s clients, focusing on delivering game-changing campaigns that yield future-forward outcomes. “Our goal is to make our clients love us and stay with us forever. The clients will expect campaigns that stand out and deliver results. We will help our clients succeed in digital and traditional media as well.”
Under her leadership, Ms. Noromor envisions leveraging technology as the solid anchor of Emerge’s success. “The future of Emerge is rooted in technology. Over the next decade, we plan to collaborate with brands and agencies to enhance marketing assets through our proprietary tools.”
The decision to appoint a new CEO is rooted in the agency’s strategic and long-term objectives. Emerge’s now Chairman and Founder, Richard Noromor, confidently noted Ms. Noromor’s readiness, capability, and zeal to solidify Emerge’s position in the industry further.
“Carissa Noromor is ready to take Emerge to the next level. Our 5-year and 10-year plans align with this new direction. Carissa is in charge of solidifying the agency’s mark in this industry by improving all facets of agency management,” Mr. Noromor said. He added, “The role of the new CEO is to scale the agency through a malasakit-driven culture, world-class account management, branding & positioning, and award-winning campaigns.”
Furthermore, Mr. Noromor underscored the significance of Ms. Carissa’s leadership in championing women’s empowerment in the industry, stating, “Women are at the forefront of leadership today — in every industry. And Carissa’s appointment testifies our commitment to inclusion, equality, and diversity.”
With Ms. Noromor at the helm, Emerge is primed to continue its legacy of excellence in the field of marketing and beyond.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 14, 2024 | Food & Beverage
The Manila Hotel’s Café Ilang-Ilang promises vibrant flavors that will take patrons to the culinary capital of the Philippines in just one bite with its Pampanga Food Festival. From May 16 to 31, 2024, Café Ilang-Ilang will showcase a selection of Kapampangan delicacies. Spearheaded by Executive Chef Konrad Walter, the culinary team will showcase both traditional and exotic dishes from the culinary capital of the Philippines.
Diners can expect to indulge in an array of well-known Kapampangan dishes encompassing traditional favorites like Kalderetang Bibe, Ningnangang Hito at Dalag (grilled catfish and freshwater eel), Kapampangan Bringhe (Filipino style paella cooked in coconut milk), Tidtad Babi (Kapampangan version of dinuguan) with puto, Suam Mais, Sipo Egg, Saleng Manuk, Lengua, and the classic Sisig.
Other delectable dishes include Pako Salad (fern salad), Pizza with Sisig, Aligue Pasta (seafood pasta in crab fat sauce), sweets like Tibok Tibok (made from fresh carabao’s milk topped with latik), Kalame Duman (sticky rice cake), Sans Rival, Sasmuan Polvoron, Barquillas, Cashew Mazapan, Panecillos Cookies and Turrones de Casuy.
These dishes are part of the rotating selection at Café Ilang-Ilang’s lunch and dinner buffet. Alongside these offerings, diners can still enjoy Café Ilang-Ilang’s popular favorites, including various cuisines such as Japanese, Korean, and Italian, among others.
“This is The Manila Hotel’s way to enlighten our guests about diverse culinary tastes. Being the culinary capital of the Philippines, these Kapampangan dishes rightly take center stage at Café Ilang-Ilang,” said EJ Yap, The Manila Hotel’s assistant director of food and beverage.
For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500 or email re************@************el.com.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the choice hotel for the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel has continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience. It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club. The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists.
The Manila Hotel has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure: Café Ilang-Ilang which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of International buffet delights; Champagne Room with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila—it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting; Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music; Lobby Lounge which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings; Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessens that offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Ferry Bayu | May 14, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 14 May 2024 – VRITIMES, the innovative media technology startup headquartered in Tokyo, is delighted to announce its strategic partnership with APACNews.org, a distinguished news outlet with deep roots in the Asia-Pacific region. This new alliance is set to enhance how news is distributed and consumed across this dynamic region.
APACNews.org is recognized for its incisive coverage and deep understanding of the Asia-Pacific market, making it a perfect match for VRITIMES’s cutting-edge press release distribution technology and analytics. Together, the two organizations aim to transform the traditional media landscape by integrating state-of-the-art technology with rich, contextual journalism.
“We are thrilled to partner with APACNews.org,” said Ferry CEO of VRITIMES. “This partnership will allow us to tap into critical markets in Asia-Pacific, delivering our advanced media solutions to a broader audience. Our joint efforts will focus on providing enhanced media exposure and delivering pivotal news stories with greater efficiency and accuracy.”
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