by | Aug 27, 2024 | Business
Kesatuan Eropah dengan bangganya mempersembahkan pilihan produk luar biasa dari Greece dan Latvia sebagai sebahagian daripada kempen “Produk Eropah Premium”. Bertajuk “Langkah Penyediaan Maklumat dan Promosi Produk Pertanian di Kanada, Malaysia, dan Korea Selatan,” inisiatif ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan profil produk makanan Eropah di pasaran global utama ini. Di bawah slogan “Pengetahuan yang Lebih Baik, Pilihan yang Lebih Baik,” kempen ini bertujuan untuk menyedarkan orang ramai mengenai warisan budaya yang kaya, proses pengeluaran yang teliti, dan komitmen yang teguh terhadap keselamatan dan kualiti yang mendefinisikan barangan Eropah.
Kempen ini memperkenalkan pelbagai produk tambah nilai yang menakjubkan, termasuk minyak zaitun PDO, zaitun meja, kismis kering, safron, keju keras, getah, dan minyak getah dari Greece, serta produk tenusu, buah-buahan manisan, coklat, konfeksi, dan makanan ringan masin dari Latvia. Inisiatif ini dibina di atas empat objektif utama: pertama, untuk meningkatkan kesedaran tentang produk Eropah berkualiti tinggi ini; kedua, untuk meningkatkan pengiktirafan mereka di kalangan pengguna; ketiga, untuk mendorong peningkatan penggunaan; dan akhirnya, untuk meningkatkan eksport produk Eropah ini ke Kanada, Malaysia, dan Korea Selatan.
Komitmen EU terhadap Kualiti: Memahami Label
Komitmen Kesatuan Eropah terhadap kualiti diwakili oleh label PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) dan PGI (Protected Geographical Indication). Label ini melindungi nama produk yang berasal dari kawasan tertentu dan mempunyai kualiti atau reputasi yang berkaitan dengan wilayah pengeluarannya. Perbezaan antara PDO dan PGI terutamanya berkaitan dengan berapa banyak bahan mentah produk yang mesti datang dari kawasan tersebut dan berapa banyak proses pengeluaran yang mesti berlaku dalam wilayah tertentu. Faktor-faktor ini adalah petunjuk penting keaslian dan kecemerlangan.
1. Petunjuk Geografi Terlindung (PDO):
Label ini memastikan bahawa produk dihasilkan, diproses, dan dikembangkan di lokasi tertentu, dengan kualiti atau ciri-ciri yang berkait rapat dengan persekitaran geografi mereka. Sebagai contoh, safron “Krokos Kozanis” yang terkenal dari Greece adalah produk PDO, yang diraikan kerana aroma yang istimewa dan warna yang terang, yang hanya tumbuh di wilayah Kozani.
2. Indikasi Geografi Terlindung (PGI):
Sama seperti PDO, produk PGI menekankan kaitan dengan kawasan geografi mereka. Walau bagaimanapun, tidak seperti PDO, beberapa peringkat pengeluaran atau pembangunan boleh berlaku di luar wilayah yang ditentukan. Contohnya ialah “Jāņu Siers” (Keju Midsummer) dari Latvia, yang dikenali kerana kepentingan budaya dan kaedah pengeluaran tradisionalnya.
Produk Eropah Premium dari Greece dan Latvia
Kempen “Produk Eropah Premium” menawarkan pilihan barangan berkualiti tinggi dari Greece dan Latvia, termasuk minyak zaitun PDO, kismis kering, safron, keju keras, dan produk tenusu seperti keju krim dan krim masam. Produk-produk ini mewakili warisan Eropah yang kaya, menggabungkan tradisi yang lama dengan piawaian keselamatan dan kualiti yang ketat.
Produk Greece: Greece menyumbang pelbagai produk PDO, termasuk “Korinthiaki Stafida Vostizza” (Kismis Korintus) dan “Graviera Kritis” (Keju Graviera dari Crete), yang terkenal dengan rasa yang unik dan kualiti yang unggul.
Produk Latvia: Latvia menawarkan pelbagai produk tenusu, termasuk snek keju, keju krim, dan keju separa keras, yang semuanya dihasilkan dengan piawaian pengeluaran tertinggi, mencerminkan tradisi tenusu yang kuat di Latvia.
Menjamin Keselamatan
Peraturan ketat Kesatuan Eropah mengenai pengeluaran makanan memastikan produk-produk ini memenuhi piawaian keselamatan dan kualiti tertinggi. Dari kawalan racun perosak hingga piawaian kebersihan di kemudahan pemprosesan, setiap langkah dalam proses pengeluaran dipantau dengan teliti. Selain itu, kebajikan haiwan adalah fokus utama, dengan peraturan yang memastikan haiwan dipelihara dalam persekitaran yang mengutamakan kesejahteraan mereka.
Rakan Kempen
Inisiatif ini disokong oleh dua organisasi terkemuka: Kesatuan Nasional Koperasi Pertanian Greece (ETHEAS) dan Jawatankuasa Tenusu Latvia (LDC). Kedua-dua organisasi ini berdedikasi untuk mempromosikan produk paling berprestij dari negara masing-masing, memperkukuhkan reputasi barangan Eropah di peringkat global.
Untuk maklumat lanjut mengenai kempen “Produk Eropah Premium”, sila layari https://premiumeuropeanproducts.eu/ atau emel kami di
to in**@*********************ts.eu.
Halaman yang didedikasikan untuk program ini boleh didapati di Instagram, Facebook dan YouTube, @premiumeuropeanproducts.
Peringatan kepada Editor
Mengenai Kesatuan Nasional Koperasi Pertanian Greece (ETHEAS)
Ditubuhkan oleh koperasi terkemuka Greece dan ditubuhkan oleh undang-undang Greece, ETHEAS ialah badan penyelaras nasional Koperasi Pertanian di Greece. Dengan lebih daripada 300 koperasi ahli yang mewakili kira-kira 80% daripada jumlah perolehan koperasi pertanian Greece, ETHEAS bertujuan untuk memupuk pembangunan luar bandar dan koperasi, menyokong dan mempromosikan aktiviti ahli-ahlinya di dalam dan luar negara, memberikan pendapat pakar mengenai pergerakan koperasi, pengeluaran pertanian, dan pembangunan sektor, menyelia penyebaran dan promosi idea koperasi, dan melayani serta mendidik ahli-ahlinya melalui kajian, projek penyelidikan, dan tugasan.
Mengenai Jawatankuasa Tenusu Latvia (LDC)
Ditubuhkan pada tahun 1995, Kesatuan Pusat Pengeluar Susu Latvia (“Latvijas Piensaimnieku Centrālā Savienība”) menyatukan pengeluar susu dan memberi tumpuan kepada melindungi kepentingan mereka. Sebagai sebuah masyarakat koperasi dengan 17 ahli yang menghasilkan kira-kira 80% daripada susu industri Latvia, LDC menyokong pengeluar susu, memastikan pembangunan mampan sektor tenusu, dan mewakili kepentingan kolektif ahlinya.
by | Aug 27, 2024 | Business
This is the first part of the four-part series Empowering Vulnerable Populations through Media and Information Literacy. This article focuses on Filipino youths. It will discuss the importance of Media and Information Literacy (MIL) for the youth. Also, it will elaborate on how MIL can empower them to navigate the digital age safely and responsibly.
In the complex and interconnected digital world, vulnerable youth face unique challenges in keeping themselves safe from bad actors that lurk online.
Since they have less agency and less discretion on the media they are consuming, they are considered easy targets by wrongdoers.
Since these vulnerable groups often lack the resources and education needed to effectively interpret media, they are more susceptible to exploitation and misinformation. Thus, media and information literacy (MIL) is crucial to equip them with the skills to critically access, analyze, and evaluate media content. These skills foster safer and more informed online experiences, in particular those who face heightened risks and barriers.
The Power of MIL for Vulnerable Youth
The common cyber challenges that Filipino youths face include misinformation, cyberbullying, and online exploitation. They are easy targets simply because they lack digital literacy skills to combat these risks. That is where the role of media and information literacy comes in. These skills enable them to understand their online rights, to navigate the digital landscape responsibly, and to make informed decisions.
For example, these youths can avoid scams simply because they can distinguish whether the sales page they are exposed to is credible or not. Another one, they can alert social media companies that they have been harassed online and the said companies will take action simply because these youths know they have the right to be protected from bad actors in the digital space.
When vulnerable youths know what risks they face in using media and how to protect themselves from danger, their guardians could heap a sigh of relief that their wards are on a good digital experience.
Addressing the Challenges
Vulnerable youth often encounter significant obstacles in accessing and interpreting media. These challenges may include limited digital access, lower literacy levels, and susceptibility to misinformation and online risks. Imagine where children are not exposed to gadgets simply because their parents cannot afford them. Then, they reach a certain age where they can afford to get gadgets like mobile phones or tablets. The likelihood they may face online exploitation like scams and misinformation on certain narratives is high simply because they were not trained to use digital resources and were not trained in digital literacy at a young age.
In short, socioeconomic factors, education levels, and technology access significantly impact their ability to navigate the online world safely.
So how to address these challenges? First, make it accessible for every family to have digital resources and internet connectivity. Governments should invest in manufacturing cheaper technology that the general population could avail of and ensure that there are enough subsidies to build internet towers in every city. Of course, this will take time but industrialization for the sake of global competitiveness in general should be the main driver to trickle down MIL investments.
However, our policy-makers could make short-term solutions while the country is far beyond industrialization. These include education and community initiatives.
Empowering Through Education
MIL education is vital to empower vulnerable youth. When MIL is incorporated into school programs, children will learn the skillsets attached to the said subject.
However, there must be some avenues to validate and practice such learning. These include workshops and community engagements. They can equip students with the tools to critically assess media content and to navigate the digital world confidently.
Building Effective MIL Programs
To build effective MIL programs, there should be collaboration among schools, community organizations, and policymakers. Understand that MIL education in itself is an interconnected system so it is a must that people contribute their part to make it work.
Now, how to ensure that MIL programs are successful for vulnerable youth? These programs must be accessible, relevant, and engaging. It should also be complemented with technology to enhance MIL education. However, as discussed in previous articles, there are some challenges in pursuit of this program so accessibility and inclusivity should always be a priority.
Moreover, teachers should also be empowered and well-financed in the said programs because they are the key determinants in the success of MIL education.
A Call to Action
Empowering the vulnerable Filipino youths through MIL fosters a more informed, resilient, and inclusive Philippines where everyone can access the digital world safely and responsibly.
When policymakers and educators prioritize MIL initiatives for vulnerable youths, they can create a future where every Filipino can access and engage with media confidently and critically, regardless of his circumstances. This empowerment is vital for a safer and more informed online experience for all.
Hence, stakeholders should champion MIL education through supportive policies, resource allocation, and continuous training for educators.
Coach Boost Gio
by | Aug 27, 2024 | Business
Building a bridge between the startup ecosystems of Asia and Okinawa to foster innovation.
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and the Japan Southeast Asia Innovation Platform (JSIP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at supporting startup communities in Okinawa and Asia. Through this partnership, they seek to strengthen the startup ecosystem and accelerate innovation in Okinawa and across Asia. The collaboration will involve co-organized seminars, mentoring OIST-based startups by JSIP, joint branding and marketing efforts, and supporting startup growth through industry-academia collaboration.
JSIP is a community platform for the launch and growth of new, Japanese business ventures in Southeast Asia. Centered in Singapore, it unites experts from Japan and the rest of the world to foster cross-industry collaboration, creating a solid foundation for rapid business expansion throughout the region.
The signing of this MOU is expected to further energize the startup ecosystem in Okinawa, marking a significant step towards extending the pioneer spirit of Okinawa to the rest of Asia and beyond.
【Goals of the MOU】
Planning and organizing joint seminars: Co-hosting seminars for startups in the Asia region to introduce the latest trends in technology and business.
Mentoring by JSIP: JSIP will provide mentoring to OIST-based startups to help them address their challenges.
Joint branding and marketing: Leveraging both parties’ networks and resources to support startup branding and marketing.
Other related matters: Implementing various measures to accelerate startup growth through industry-academia collaboration.
【Comments】
• Gil Granot-Mayer, OIST Executive Vice President for Technology Development and Innovation: ” The signing of this MOU is a crucial step towards accelerating the growth and innovation of startups in Asia, while unlocking the potential of Okinawa. This collaboration will further strengthen Okinawa’s startup ecosystem, significantly contributing to the region’s economic development. OIST aims to become a hub for innovation, fostering a startup ecosystem rooted in Okinawa and expanding throughout Asia.”
• Takaki Nakamura, Founder of JSIP’s management team: “We are honored to partner with OIST, a cutting-edge academic and research institution that attracts top global talent. This collaboration will serve as a foundation for bridging the startup ecosystems of Southeast Asia and Okinawa, fostering new innovations and embodying JSIP’s vision of building ‘innovation infrastructure’ that connects Japan and Southeast Asia. Our team is excited about the upcoming collaboration.”
by | Aug 26, 2024 | Business
Reputation House’s new services help businesses within the travel and hospitality sector to take full control of their online presence
Reputation House now offers a new set of modern
and comprehensive online reputation management services. This set of tools is
focused on companies and personal brands operating within the HoReCa and travel
business sectors. The new services will help brands of different sizes to excel
their digital presence.
The new service, called ‘Online Presence Control,’ includes eight key components:
● Reputation Audit: A thorough assessment of the company’s current online reputation.
● Mass Media Mention and Social Media Monitoring System: Comprehensive tracking of mentions
across news outlets and social media platforms.
● Daily Monitoring: Continuous surveillance of online activity related to the company.
● Alert System:
Customizable notifications for specific keywords or phrases, enabling swift
responses to critical mentions.
● SaaS Products from Reputation House: AI-powered solutions designed to protect and
improve the company’s reputation.
● Live Tech Support: Immediate technical assistance to address any issues or concerns.
● Weekly Reports: Detailed summaries of online activity and reputation status.
● A personal manager to oversee and guide the reputation management process.
Dima Raketa, CEO of Reputation House,
commented, ‘Before offering a new set of
services, we conducted thorough research analyzing the travel industry impacted
by reputation challenges the most worldwide. Thus, we created a solution with a
particular focus on digital image and the level of presence in the web. We
believe that having the right tools to manage and protect your brand image is
essential. Our new offerings reflect our commitment to innovation and
excellence in reputation management.’
Today, Reputation House specializes in
detecting issues and fixing online performance: Search Engine Reputation
Management (SERM), online mentions’ monitoring, online reputation analytics,
lead generation, deleting information from websites and search engines, and
evaluating digital engagement and coverage. For over 10 years Reputation House
has secured online reputation for more than 1,000 international companies that
include governments, corporations, companies, NGOs, and individuals.
To learn more about Reputation House and its
services, visit the website.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 26, 2024 | Book Reviews
Two Times the Trouble by Stephanie Brother is different from the other stories she’s written that I have read. Identical twins are nothing new, but identical twins pretending to be one person to help a gal out by pretending to be her boyfriend … that’s new.
When a hot, grumpy, silent man entered her yoga class, Callie didn’t know what to expect. She certainly didn’t expect him to keep coming back! Then she encounters him again at the sandwich shop she also works at and encounters him again, but with his personality dialed the opposite way. How can he be so different in yoga class and outside of it? Turns out that the explanation is simple.
Dealing with the Pruitt twins must be like having a relationship with Jekyll and Hyde, except that Max and Miles really are two separate people! It boggles the mind how polar opposite their personalities seem, and yet whenever they switch places, Miles plays Max to a tee that in Callie’s shoes, I would get whiplash! Then there’s the added layer of mystery… what are these twins plotting? It’s clear that their machinations are unrelated to Callie and have everything to do with the family her sister is marrying into. The impending revelation is a source of dread. Hearts will be shattered, feelings will be bruised, and misunderstandings will run rampant.
I’d recommend this book, if only because it is different from most of Stephanie Brother’s stories, and yet it still hooked me! The unique storyline, the complex characters, and the element of mystery make it a compelling read. I think you should give it a shot as well. 🙂
Two Times the Trouble by Stephanie Brother on Amazon in paperback and Kindle format. Get your copy now! I enjoyed it, I think you will, too.
by | Aug 26, 2024 | Business
This is the last part of the four-part series on Media and Information Literacy in the Disinformation Web. This article will discuss how Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in the Philippines is essential for combating disinformation. Also, it will feature MIL initiatives, their impact, and strategies for building a resilient society.
In an age of rampant misinformation, media and information literacy (MIL) stands as a beacon of hope for the Philippines. This essential skill set empowers individuals to adapt from the complexities of the digital landscape. It helps people to critically evaluate information,and resist manipulation.
The Vital Role of MIL in the Philippines
Media and Information Literacy encompasses the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in various forms, along with an ethical understanding of media consumption and production. Hence, MIL is particularly vital. It enables citizens to discern credible sources from the sea of misinformation that often floods these platforms. It enables people to make informed decisions.
For example, as discussed in previous articles, social media is deeply embedded in daily life of Filipinos since the Philippine is the Social Media Capital of the World. It was also highlighted in the previous article about the need of Filipinos to be educated on MIL because they tend to be victims of fake news from influencers.
Government-Led Media Literacy Campaigns
The Philippine government recognizes the threat of disinformation that is why they have taken proactive measures. The initiative includes a nationwide media literacy campaign which was spearheaded by the Marcos administration. This program aims to equip Filipinos with the critical thinking skills necessary to figure out the media landscape effectively. This campaign involves a collaborative effort among various government agencies, including the Presidential Communication Office (PCO), the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). The campaign focuses on teaching individuals how to discern credible sources and engage responsibly with the media.
Academic and Non-Profit Contributions
Alongside government initiatives, academic institutions and non-profit organizations play a pivotal role in promoting MIL. For example, Tsek.ph is a collaborative fact-checking project that counters disinformation by providing verified information. Meanwhile, VERA Files, an independent media organization, conducts in-depth analysis and fact-checking to promote accurate reporting.
MIL: A Weapon Against Disinformation
Strong MIL skills has a profound impact on an individual’s ability to resist manipulation and make informed choices. MIL enhances critical thinking and it encourages individuals to question the validity of information. It also fosters informed decision-making that is crucial in a democratic society like the Philippines. Moreover, MIL builds resilience against manipulation, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, where MIL initiatives successfully debunked vaccine myths.
Lessons Learned and the Way Forward
As the Philippines continues its fight against disinformation, several key lessons have emerged:
Proactive Education: Early and continuous education about MIL is essential to build a more informed and resilient society. Remember, they are not easily manipulated by misinformation if they are trained to discern the validity of sources.
Collaboration: Successful MIL initiatives require collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, and media organizations to amplify their reach and impact.
Lifelong Learning: MIL is an ongoing process, requiring continuous updates and innovations to keep pace with the evolving digital landscape.
In conclusion, media and information literacy is a powerful tool in the ongoing battle against disinformation in the Philippines. By fostering strong MIL skills, individuals can become discerning consumers of information, resist manipulation, and actively participate in shaping a well-informed and resilient society.
Coach Boost Gio
by | Aug 25, 2024 | Business
This is the third part of the four-part series on Media and Information Literacy in the Disinformation Web. This article will feature essential fact-checking tools that enhance media and information literacy in the Philippines, helping you combat misinformation and verify credible sources.
Combating Misinformation in the Philippines: Essential Fact-Checking Tools
As previously discussed in the last two articles, the Philippines faces a growing threat – the rapid spread of misinformation. This misinformation includes false narratives, political propaganda, and misleading health claims circulate widely. It has proven to jeopardize democratic processes, public health, and social cohesion.
In this context, media and information literacy (MIL) has become an indispensable skill for Filipinos. MIL equips individuals with the ability to critically evaluate information, identify credible sources, and make informed decisions. Fortunately, a range of powerful fact-checking tools are available to aid in this endeavor.
Local Fact-Checking Initiatives
Several local organizations have emerged as leaders in the fight against misinformation in the Philippines:
Tsek.ph: This collaborative initiative, launched during the 2019 elections. It brings together academic institutions and media organizations to verify information and counter disinformation, particularly during critical periods like elections.
VERA Files: This organization is founded by veteran Filipino journalists. VERA Files is an independent media organization renowned for its rigorous fact-checking and investigative journalism. Their commitment to accuracy and impartiality makes them a trusted source for verifying claims.
FactRakers: Led by journalism students at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, FactRakers focuses on verifying claims and promoting media literacy, contributing to a more informed society.
International and Online Fact-Checking Tools
Beyond local initiatives, several international tools are readily available to help Filipinos combat misinformation:
Google Fact Check Tools: Google offers a suite of tools designed to aid in information verification. The Google Fact Check Explorer allows users to search for debunked stories and images globally, while the Fact Check Markup tool enables content creators to add structured data to their fact checks, enhancing their visibility online.
Challenges and Considerations
While fact-checking tools offer immense value, challenges remain:
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is increasingly used in fact-checking for tasks like reverse image searching and natural language processing. However, Filipino fact-checkers have expressed concerns about the reliability, potential biases, and security risks associated with AI tools.
Solutions and Best Practices
To effectively combat misinformation, several key strategies are essential:
Proactive Fact-Checking: Key players should verify claims head on, before they gain widespread traction. This is crucial to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Collaboration: Media organizations, academic institutions, and technology companies must work together to develop robust fact-checking tools and strategies.
Public Education: Raising awareness about media literacy and the availability of fact-checking resources is essential to empower students to critically evaluate information.
Conclusion
The fight against misinformation in the Philippines is ongoing. Nonetheless, Filipinos have access to a wealth of resources to aid in this battle. By utilizing local and international fact-checking initiatives, individuals can enhance their media and information literacy. While challenges exist, proactive fact-checking, collaboration, and public education remain essential pillars in the effort to build a more informed and resilient society.
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by Ferry Bayu | Aug 25, 2024 | Advocacy
The Adventures of Damgo: Betta and the Dry Lands, written by 16-year-old Nikki Go, is now available from www.bookshelf.com.ph. This book features artwork by pediatric cancer patients.
As the country gets ready to celebrate National Heroes Day on August 26 (yes, a long weekend is here again), we meet a new set of heroes.
As Arizona Robbins from Grey’s Anatomy said, “not all heroes wear capes. Some happen to be tiny humans.” Now, another teenager and her friends set out to create a lasting impact in the Philippine arts and culture space by publishing the first book of the ongoing children’s book series, The Adventures of Damgo: Betta and the Dry Lands.
At just 16 years old, Jacqueline Dominique “Nikki” Go is already creating heroic contributions to art and pediatric cancer communities.
As the founder of the Damgo Art Therapy Foundation and the author of The Adventures of Damgo, Nikki’s journey starts with a love for family and art.
Nikki’s artistic interests began in early childhood, nurtured by supportive parents who, despite not being artists themselves, recognized and cultivated their daughter’s creative talents. “I’ve always felt happiest when I get lost creating art,” Nikki shares.
This passion for art, however, was juxtaposed against a backdrop of loss and heartache as cancer took the lives of several close family members. “Cancer is hereditary, and I have it on both sides of my family. I’ve lost 3 uncles to cancer, and my grandma and aunt are survivors,” Nikki recounts.
These experiences naturally fueled her curiosity and empathy toward cancer patients and survivors, eventually leading her to establish the Damgo Art Therapy Foundation. Like most youth-led initiatives, the foundation originated from Nikki’s 8th-grade school project aimed at contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While her peers focused on themes like poverty and sustainability, Nikki chose to explore the impact of art on mental well-being, particularly among teenagers. “I saw a huge lift in happiness when teenagers were exposed to art,” Nikki explains. This discovery ignited a deeper inquiry into the beneficiaries of art therapy, ultimately guiding her to Bahay Aruga, a halfway home for pediatric cancer patients.
“When I approached Bahay Aruga, I wanted to offer something more valuable than monetary donations. Something that would have a lasting positive effect on the patients… art therapy had that effect,” says Nikki.
The Damgo Art Therapy Foundation was born out of this desire, and it quickly became hope for young cancer patients. Through art therapy sessions, Nikki witnessed firsthand the transformative power of creativity. “One of my students said that she ‘couldn’t believe she is able to paint the things she’s done.’ She told me how she looked forward to our art therapy sessions, and she carries this feeling when she goes for treatment.”
Inspired by the children’s resilience and imagination, Nikki penned The Adventures of Damgo, a series that takes cancer patients on a cosmic journey filled with limitless possibilities. “I hope that through these stories, children all over the country and the world become inspired to dream big and help each other overcome any obstacle,” Nikki says. “Damgo, in Cebuano, also means dream.”
The book’s impact has been profound, forging deep connections between the young artists and the community that supports them. Tragically, two of the contributing artists, Richard and Ralph, passed away before the book’s completion. Yet, their legacy lives on through their artwork and the positive influence the project had on their lives.
“Remembering the moments with Richard, he remarked how he loves the art therapy sessions because it takes his mind off the pain, even for a few hours,” Nikki reflects. “Meanwhile, Ralph was that one student who didn’t miss a single week’s lesson. He loved the art therapy sessions! He told me that he loved to paint Damgo’s adventures because it makes him imagine that he too, can one day go outside the country and see unbelievable sights.”
Publishing the first book is just the start of Nikki’s big plans for the Damgo Art Therapy Foundation. With two more books in development and a growing partnership with the International School Manila’s Visual Arts Club, the foundation is poised to continue its mission of providing joy and comfort to pediatric cancer patients.
“In the future, I hope to see more innovation in the art therapy execution, and more adventures of Damgo,” Nikki says. “Excited for book 2!”
by | Aug 25, 2024 | Business
Pulso has established itself as a leading provider of credible information and survey data in the Philippines, offering reliable insights for businesses, political stakeholders, and organizations across various industries.
MANILA, Philippines – Pulso has established itself as a leading provider of credible information and survey data in the Philippines, offering reliable insights for businesses, political stakeholders, and organizations across various industries. With a focus on delivering high-quality quantitative and qualitative research, Pulso is becoming the go-to partner for entities seeking in-depth analysis and data-driven strategies.
Survey matters
This new survey provider specializes in conducting field and online surveys that provide valuable insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and public opinion. The company’s expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies allows it to capture a comprehensive view of the market and deliver actionable findings. Whether it’s gathering feedback from consumers or assessing voter sentiments, Pulso’s research solutions are designed to offer clarity and support informed decision-making.
Through its services, Pulso empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions that enhance their strategic direction, optimize their operations, and improve customer engagement. In the political realm, Pulso’s surveys shed light on voter preferences, political approval ratings, and public perceptions, offering candidates and officials a valuable resource to shape their campaigns or policies effectively.
Dedicated to credibility
Pulso’s commitment to accuracy and credibility has earned it the trust of clients seeking dependable and unbiased data. Its team of expert researchers utilizes cutting-edge methodologies to ensure that findings reflect current trends and real-world dynamics.
For businesses, political figures, and organizations seeking precise, actionable insights through trustworthy surveys and research, Pulso offers an unparalleled service. To learn more about how Pulso can help you understand your market or constituency better, send a message today and start leveraging the power of data-driven insights.
Contact Pulso today
To inquire about Pulso’s services and discover how they can assist with your research needs, message Pulso today and take the first step toward informed decision-making.
Visit their page at facebook.com/AngPulso. They will gladly discuss with you about your survey or research inquiries through Messenger.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 24, 2024 | Book Reviews
As I was going through my Facebook notifications, I encountered a post from an author named
VictoryAnne Vice, who was asking for people to try out her story called
The Alpha and the Rental Luna. She already has several books under her belt, and this is her latest ongoing story. Since the title intrigued me, I thought I’d give it a shot.
If you’ve been reading shifter romance as much as I do, then you are familiar with the werewolf concept of fated mates and chosen mates. For Alphas, that translates to their Luna, who is usually a fated mate in stories. But what if you only wanted a Luna part-time, no commitment outside of a contract? That’s where the Rental Lunas come in. The thought that Alpha females would actually choose to go into training to be a rental Luna is mind-boggling! These ladies aren’t looking to marry, even though it is a possibility. They are there to fulfill ALL of the Alpha’s needs while they are in the contract.
The Characters
The main characters are Sylvester “Sly” Sterling and Apple LeRoux.
The story opens from the POV of Apple LeRoux. She is introduced to us as a human from a small town who moves to Crescent City to pursue a college degree and to get away from her cheating boyfriend and abusive family. She is broke and homeless and desperately needs a job. She sees a notice for a job opening, not realizing that it is for a werewolf company.
In a case of misinformation and misdirection she ends up being interviewed by the Alpha who thought she was a Rental Luna. She wasn’t … but somehow, he ends up trying to convince her to accept the job of being his Rental Luna.
Sylvester “Sly” Sterling is the Alpha. Unlike in most stories, he did not inherit his title from his father. He earned it through hard work. It didn’t hurt that his former Luna was the former Alpha’s daughter, Alexis.
The Story
If Apple accepts the job, it will entail a lot of subterfuge as werewolf/human relations are frowned upon. A human Luna will definitely not be acceptable to the pack! The only ones who know are Sly, Apple, Beta Rudy, and Apple’s new friends with whom she shares an apartment.
Here’s the challenge … should Apple agree to this crazy scheme and become his Rental Luna?
On the up side it means financial security and being able to go to school and enroll in her chosen degree. In addition, being the helpful and caring person that she is, she doesn’t really mind helping the pack.
On the downside, she needs to hide her humanity and pretend to be a werewolf while at the same time fight her growing attraction to Sly..
My Take
As the story progresses, I keep waiting to get bored and move on. However, I am 48 chapters in, and it hasn’t happened yet. It helps that the author usually posts 1 to 2 chapters a day and tries her best not to leave us hanging.
I LOVE the daily updates! It keeps me interested and excited for the upcoming chapters. The story is fast-paced, which definitely kept me interested, and I occasionally went back a few pages just to reread something that caught my eye in the story.
Will they, won’t they? VictoryAnne Vice is good at edging us and making us want more. And what’s with Apple’s very vocal inner voice? My guess is she has a wolf but doesn’t know it. Maybe she’s a late bloomer. I’m on tenterhooks!
This story is something I highly recommend as it is fun, with its witty dialogues and humorous situations, and lighthearted, with its optimistic and feel-good vibe. There’s not too much drama, which I appreciate, and I can hardly wait for Apple and Sly’s first full intimacy. Here’s hoping it happens soon.
Start reading The Alpha and his Rental Luna on Goodnovel.
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