by | Aug 15, 2024 | Business
Manila, Philippines – August 15, 2024 – VRITIMES, a leading press release distribution technology startup, today announced a strategic partnership with Entertain and Enrich, a prominent news blog, to enhance press release distribution and reach a wider audience. This collaboration brings together VRITIMES’ innovative press release platform with Entertain and Enrich’s extensive readership, creating a powerful synergy for effective news dissemination.
VRITIMES empowers businesses and organizations to streamline their press release process, from creation to distribution and analysis. By leveraging VRITIMES’ platform, Entertain and Enrich will gain access to a robust toolset for managing and distributing press releases, ensuring timely and impactful news delivery to its audience.
“We are excited to partner with Entertain and Enrich, a platform known for its engaging content and dedicated readership,” said Ferry Bayu, CEO at VRITIMES. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to help businesses maximize the impact of their press releases. By combining our technology with Entertain and Enrich’s reach, we can deliver even greater value to our clients.”
Through this partnership, both VRITIMES and Entertain and Enrich aim to elevate the press release landscape by providing a more efficient, effective, and engaging experience for both press release issuers and consumers.
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 13, 2024 | Business
Olongapo City – FUJIFILM Philippines, a global leader in imaging and healthcare technology, in partnership with the Japan Embassy in the Philippines and CHSI Philippines, formulated a collective effort to provide an FDR Xair to the local government of Olongapo in a turnover ceremony held today. This initiative, which equips the local government with a powerful tool for TB detection, is in support of the government’s continuing efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB) in the country.
The donation, facilitated by CHSI Philippines, aims to bolster screening, early detection, and eradication of TB. The FDR Xair, a state-of-the-art portable X-ray system, is instrumental in early TB detection. Its portability and high image quality allow healthcare professionals to perform rapid and accurate screenings in various settings, particularly in remote and underserved communities where access to healthcare infrastructure is limited. By deploying these devices nationwide, FUJIFILM is closing healthcare access gaps and enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
According to 2022 data from the Department of Health (DOH), TB claims the lives of approximately 106 Filipinos daily. FUJIFILM’s innovative solutions, such as the FDR Xair, align with global efforts to reach, cure, and prevent TB in the Philippines. This portable device revolutionizes TB screening with its reliable performance, ease of use, and advanced imaging technology, making it particularly effective in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
In March 2023, FUJIFILM Philippines conducted its first Medical Mission and TB screening in Majayjay, Laguna, using their FDR nano and FDR Go Plus systems. The company plans to make this an annual program, continuing to utilize the FDR Xair to provide equitable and sustainable TB interventions. This year, FUJIFILM will make TB screening using FDR Xair available for free at the regular Makati Lingkod Bayan Caravan.
FUJIFILM recognizes the importance of a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to tackle the global challenge of TB. By partnering with governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector, FUJIFILM aims to build a healthier, TB-free future.
With over 600,000 TB cases reported by the DOH as of December 31, 2023, the urgency for enhanced detection capabilities and coordinated efforts has never been greater. Despite the severity of TB, it remains curable, with free medication available at TB DOTS clinics nationwide.
by | Aug 13, 2024 | Business
AiAssistWorks introduces a new AI add-on for Google Sheets, offering seamless integration and advanced features for users of all skill levels.
AiAssistWorks has launched a powerful AI Google Sheets add-on, crafted to seamlessly integrate cutting-edge AI technology into Google Sheets for streamlined filling tasks and comprehensive data analysis, enabling both novice and expert users to enhance their productivity.
In recent years, the proliferation of AI tools has reshaped various aspects of daily life and work, with companies, from startups to major corporations, developing their own AI models to optimize operations and decision-making. AiAssistWorks capitalizes on this trend by embedding a versatile AI solution within Google Sheets, one of the most widely used tools for data analysis and management.
No Complex Formulas
Unlike typical AI integrations requiring complex setups and specialized knowledge, AiAssistWorks offers a unique approach that eliminates the need for writing custom formulas like “=GPT.” Users can interact with the add-on through a straightforward, user-friendly interface, allowing them to save and reuse AI prompts without the hassle of complex formula configurations. This feature not only simplifies the user experience but also enhances productivity by reducing the time and effort spent on repetitive data tasks.
Over 50 AI Models (GPT, Claude, Gemini, Llama, Perplexity,etc)
The AiAssistWorks add-on supports connections to numerous AI providers, including industry leaders such as OpenAI, Anthropic, and Gemini, using individual API keys. This flexibility enables users to employ a wide range of AI models, making it possible to leverage nearly all available large language models (LLMs) directly within their spreadsheets. This level of integration is unprecedented in the realm of Google Sheets AI tools.
“Our product stands out because it democratizes access to advanced AI functionalities, allowing users to enhance their Google Sheets experience without the need for extensive technical knowledge or financial investment,” explained a spokesperson for AiAssistWorks. “By making our tool affordable and easy to use, we are opening up a world of possibilities for utilizing advanced AI models in daily life that were previously only available to specialists.”
As businesses continue to embrace AI technologies to gain competitive advantages, tools like AiAssistWorks are becoming essential for anyone looking to incorporate AI into their daily workflows efficiently and affordably. This add-on is not just a tool; it’s a bridge to the future of work, where AI and human ingenuity combine to create unprecedented opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
For more information about AiAssistWorks and to start integrating AI into your Google Sheets, please visit www.aiassistworks.com or get it from Google Workspace Marketplace.
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 12th August 2024 – Over the weekend of 10th and 11th August, the Sime Darby Convention Centre buzzed with energy as more than 500 doctors and delegates gathered for the highly anticipated Healthcare Revolution Conference, hosted by Disruptive Doctors®. The event featured 20 booth exhibitors and was supported by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Sdn Bhd as a supporting partner, along with Silver Sponsors Novartis and KPJ Healthcare Berhad.
The conference, themed “Doctors Impacting Healthcare Differently,” was not just any ordinary gathering. It was a vibrant assembly of like-minded, forward-thinking doctors, united by a shared vision of transforming healthcare. The event kicked off with a compelling launch video by Disruptive Doctors® that powerfully showcased what the platform is fighting against—lack of opportunity, stagnancy, and outdated systems in healthcare. This set the tone for the entire conference, emphasizing the urgent need for change.
The event showcased diverse career options beyond traditional sick care, with doctors sharing their personal journeys, insights on how they transitioned into new roles and advanced in their careers, and practical advice for younger doctors aspiring to follow in their footsteps.
In her inspiring keynote speech, Dr. Selina Chew, Co-founder & CEO of Disruptive Doctors®, shared her personal story of how a back injury altered her career trajectory from anaesthesia and ICU to new opportunities in healthcare. She emphasized that this conference was for every doctor who is at a crossroads, seeking new ways to make an impact in healthcare.
Dr. Selina highlighted that the goal is not about leaving medicine but rather stepping into the broader possibilities that healthcare offers. She also unveiled her vision for Disruptive Doctors® to go global, creating a platform where doctors can connect, collaborate, and share knowledge and experiences across borders.
The conference effectively captured how doctors can impact healthcare differently.
Day 1
Day 1 focused on diverse career opportunities, with sessions featuring experienced doctors who shared their stories on how they transitioned into roles in healthcare management, pharmaceuticals, and clinical research.
Day 2
Day 2 explored the future of healthcare, including discussions on AI, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment in healthcare.
Notable speakers included Dr. Kamal Amzan, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Johor and IHH Malaysia’s Regional CEO, Southern & Eastern Hospitals, and Dr. Tan Hui Ling, Managing Director of Bagan Specialist Centre. Top venture capitalists like Bikesh Lakhmichand from 1337 Ventures and Kevin Brockland from Indelible Ventures also shared their insights, alongside industry leaders such as Dr. Balraj Sethi from Novartis, and Dr. Nadira Azmi, from AstraZeneca.
A standout moment was the H-Innovators Challenge Showdown, a month-long incubator challenge that culminated in a thrilling final during the conference. Medical students and doctors presented their innovative healthcare solutions, adding a dynamic element to the event.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their gratitude for finding Disruptive Doctors® and attending the conference, sharing that it helped them see beyond the confines of traditional medical practice. They appreciated the platform for providing a space where doctors can explore new opportunities, gain insights, and connect with a community that understands the challenges of modern healthcare. One attendee remarked, “I’m so glad I found Disruptive Doctors and this conference. Before this, I felt lost and stuck, not knowing what else I could do as a doctor. This event has opened my eyes to new possibilities.” Another attendee highlighted, “This conference really helps doctors to see what’s beyond sick care,” while a third added, “I would recommend all doctors to check out Disruptive Doctors because everything you need, you can find it here.”
Join the Movement
Disruptive Doctors® is more than just a platform; it’s a movement for doctors who are ready to impact healthcare differently.
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
Cloudsine is excited to announce that the WebOrion® Monitor is now part of Magnolia’s advanced security solutions for its managed DXP offering in the cloud. The WebOrion® Monitor provides 24/7 proactive monitoring to detect website defacements and hacks, ensuring businesses are the first to notice any changes, preventing reputational damage and loss of customer trust.
“At Cloudsine, we understand the importance of maintaining a secure and trustworthy online presence,” said Matthias Chin, CEO and Founder of Cloudsine. “The WebOrion® Monitor is designed to provide continuous surveillance of public-facing websites, offering timely alerts and allowing swift corrective action. Partnering with Magnolia allows us to extend these capabilities to a broader audience, ensuring more businesses can safeguard their digital assets.”
Commenting on the new extension, Tim Brown, CEO at Magnolia said, “Partnering with Cloudsine makes it easier for customers to benefit from the combined solution that we offer and to safeguard their web presence and reputation.”
Magnolia’s advanced security package is built on the principle that website security is a fundamental necessity, not an afterthought. The package offers a comprehensive suite of features, including CDN security, DDoS mitigation, and web defacement protection, making it a one-stop solution for robust website security.
This partnership reflects Cloudsine and Magnolia’s commitment to delivering top-tier security solutions, enabling businesses to maintain a secure online presence.
For more information about Cloudsine and the WebOrion Monitor, visit www.cloudsine.tech. For more information about Magnolia’s advanced security package, visit this blog.
About Magnolia
With over 450 enterprise customers, thousands of Community Edition deployments, and more than 200 certified Magnolia Partners around the world, Magnolia is the business-ready composable Digital Experience Platform of choice for leading companies around the world, including American Express, JetBlue, The New York Times, CNN, Sanofi, Sainsbury’s, Generali, and Ping An.
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
Bookshelf PH launches the first Sari-Sari Stories collection, the Romance Edition at SM Aura Book Nook on August 14, 2024 at 4PM.
“Pabili po isang maikling kwento. ‘Yung tingi lang po.”
The quintessential sari-sari store is an embedded Filipino culture you can’t miss. Every barangay surely has this neighborhood fixture where a variety of goods are sold. Beyond being a go-to store where we buy chichiryas, instant coffees, and last-minute ingredients, the sari-sari store serves as an invisible string that ties communities together. It is where community stories, often chismis, are shared.
Paying homage to such a heartwarming culture, publishing house Bookshelf PH launches the first edition of its ongoing anthology called “Sari-Sari Stories: Romance Edition”. Just like the sari-sari store carries a variety of items, the books in the Sari-Sari Stories series will present various themes in each edition–from romance and family to other Filipino-centered stories and culture. For this Romance Edition, we present a diverse selection of love stories, each one a reflection of the different facets of Filipino romance.
From chance encounters and deceitful hearts to enduring love against all odds, the anthology promises something for everyone. Readers will find themselves immersed in narratives that range from sweet and tender to passionate and intense, each one leaving a lasting impression.
“We Filipinos love the feeling of kilig,” Monette Quiogue, Managing Partner of Bookshelf PH says. “Romance is a genre we naturally gravitate to, and there is no shortage of love letters and stories written by aspiring Filipino authors. Sari-Sari Stories: Romance Edition proves how each of us has a story to tell and that love can be found in the most mundane or even unexpected moments.”
A collection of four stories, the anthology showcases diverse voices and unique perspectives on various themes. Like colorful snacks and drinks from a sari-sari store, you’re in for an unexpected treat to satisfy your kilig cravings.
“Love is a universal experience and the diversity of these stories is what makes this collection rich,” Michelle Dulinayan, Managing Editor says. “We have stories about Filipino LGBTs, stories that romanticize modern haranas, and stories of love and dreams amidst ruins and heartbreaks.“
Bookshelf PH invites everyone to join in celebrating this literary milestone. The book launch featuring the four Filipino authors and the faces behind publishing the anthology is on August 14, 2024 at the SM Aura Book Nook.
Join the Sari-Sari Romance and feel kilig to the books by downloading the SM Online App then visiting this link to register: https://bit.ly/SSSRomance-Launch. The anthology is now available for purchase, print and ebook at Bookshelf PH’s website.
Let’s take a trip to the sari-sari store, and together, discover heartwarming tales and treats for our romantic souls.
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
Pet ownership and the demand for premium pet products have surged in Indonesia, driving significant growth in the pet food market. Shopee dominates the market with Royal Canin leading the cat food category, reflecting consumer preferences for both quality and convenience.
In Indonesia, the pet ownership rate has been growing steadily as the country’s economy is advancing rapidly, driven by the increase of urbanization and industrialization. As a result, the pet population in Indonesia grew by a remarkable 75.7% between 2017 and 2022.
The rising trend of pet humanization has led to greater demand for premium pet products, particularly in the pet food category. This can be seen as the Indonesian pet food market grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1% from 2021 to 2026.
Pet Food Market Overview
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-20" alt="Picture: E-commerce market growth of Pet Food category” />
According to research by Magpie E-commerce Intelligence, the cat food market in Indonesia reached IDR 470.1 billion, with 30.7 million products sold between January and May 2024. Wilhendra, CEO of Magpie, noted, “The highest increase in the Pet Food category occurred in May 2024, with the GMV increasing by 33.56% from the previous month.”
Market Share by E-commerce
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-21" alt="Picture: E-commerce market share of Pet Food category” />
In the pet food market, Shopee dominates with a 74.1% share, followed by Tokopedia (18.7%) and Lazada (6.87%). Shopee significantly increased its market share by 47% in May, while Tokopedia saw a 12% increase during the same period. “Compared to other e-commerce platforms, it shows that Shopee is preferred as the one-stop-platform for people to buy pet products,” said Wilhendra.
Cat Food Market Share by Brand
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-22" alt="Picture: Brand market share of Cat Food” />
The top five brands account for over half of the sales, with Royal Canin leading the cat food category with a 17.2% market share. Cat Choize follows with 12.5%, and Me-O holds 9.6%.
Cat Food Market Share Overtime
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-23" alt="Picture: Brand market share overtime of Cat Food” />
From January to May 2024, the cat food market was primarily dominated by Royal Canin and Cat Choize. Cat Choize saw a significant increase in February and March, surpassing Royal Canin but they regained the lead in subsequent months. Kitchen Flavor has shown steady growth, indicating promising potential despite its smaller market share.
Cat Food Top Brand on E-commerces
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-24" alt="Picture: Top Brand of Cat Food in Shopee” />
On Shopee, Royal Canin leads with a 15.86% share, generating IDR 55.28 billion in revenue. Cat Choize and Me-O follow closely behind in this competitive market.
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-28" alt="Picture: Top Brand of Cat Food in Tokopedia” />
On Tokopedia, Royal Canin is also the market leader with a 26.37% share. Cat Choize holds second place with a 15.94% share, while Me-O and Life Cat are in close competition, separated by only 0.32%.
Top-Selling Cat Food Products
<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://slvrdlphn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/public-29" alt="Picture: Product market share of Cat Food” />
Me-O’s top product is the Me-O Canned Cat Food Seafood Platter, which generated IDR 31.75 billion and sold nearly 2.24 million units. The Cat Choize Cat Salmon 800g is in second place, followed by the Royal Canin FCN Hair & Skin 2kg in third. “Consumers tend to purchase Me-O and Cat Choize products in smaller quantities but more frequently, whereas Royal Canin buyers prefer larger package sizes,” stated Wilhendra.
Thumbnail picture source: Freepik
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
The Capacity Building Programme for Reducing Recycling-Related Marine Plastic Pollution in ASEAN Cities (CaRMPAC Project) will be officially launched on 16 August 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR. This significant regional initiative is designed to address the pressing issue of marine plastic pollution through targeted capacity building and implementation strategies. In conjunction with the launch, the outcomes of Phase 1 of the project have been published, including the Situation Assessment Reports and Technical Guidelines for six key ASEAN cities, which aimed at preventing plastic and resin pellet leakage from recycling facilities.
The Capacity Building Programme for
Reducing Recycling-Related Marine Plastic Pollution in ASEAN Cities (CaRMPAC
Project) will be officially launched on 16 August 2024 in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
This significant regional initiative is designed to address the pressing issue
of marine plastic pollution through targeted capacity building and
implementation strategies. In conjunction with the launch, the outcomes of
Phase 1 of the project have been published, including the Situation Assessment
Reports and Technical Guidelines for six key ASEAN cities, which aimed at
preventing plastic and resin pellet leakage from recycling facilities.
Publication of Situation
Assessment and Technical Guidelines
Phase 1 of the CaRMPAC Project
focused on a comprehensive situation assessment and the development of
technical guidelines, which aimed at preventing plastic and resin pellet
leakage from recycling facilities. This phase covered six key ASEAN cities: Pattaya,
Nonthaburi, Hanoi, Iloilo, Manila, and Vientiane. The situation assessment
revealed critical factors contributing to plastic leakage. That resulted in the
creation of technical guidelines and manuals tailored to each city to
improve recycling process and practices to prevent plastic leakage across both
formal and informal sectors. The outcomes of Phase 1, including the Situation
Assessment Reports and Technical Guidelines, have been published and are
available for free access here.
Launching Phase 2: Capacity
Building Programme
Following the successful completion
of Phase 1, Phase 2 of the CaRMPAC Project aims to expand its reach to
additional cities and countries, including Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City,
Bandung, Davao City, and others. Over the next 24 months, this phase will address
the capacity gaps identified in Phase 1, with a particular focus on informal plastic
recyclers and relevant city government regulators. The objective is to promote
responsible recycling practices and sustainable plastic management through
enhanced training, increased awareness, and improved regulatory support.
The CaRMPAC Project is being implemented by the
Asian Institute of Technology’s Regional Resource Centre for Asia and the
Pacific, with support from the Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic
Debris of ERIA and the ASEAN Secretariat.
by | Aug 12, 2024 | Business
Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) on its 32nd anniversary unveiled a new World War II History Wall at its main office in Makati City. The WWII History Wall is designed to pay tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans of World War II, who are also the original shareholders of the bank. 
Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) on its 32nd anniversary unveiled a new World War II History Wall at its main office in Makati City. The unveiling recently held at their main branch in Makati was led by Mayor Abby Binay.
The WWII History Wall is designed to pay tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans of World War II, who are also the original shareholders of the bank. This feature will be a standard addition to all PVB branches nationwide.
The Makati branch, situated in an area historically significant for being a strategic target during the war, will reflect local WWII history through this installation.
“As we celebrate this important milestone, we honor the enduring spirit and immense contributions of our nation’s heroes to our society,” said Mike Villa-Real, First-Vice President of Philippine Veterans Bank.
He adds that the”History Wall embodies Veteran’s Bank’s continued commitment to remember our veterans and learn from the profound impact of their bravery.”
As an Authorized Government Depository Bank, PVB continues to serve government-owned and controlled corporations, government agencies, and local government units, aligning its operations with the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people.
Philippine Veterans Bank is a commercial bank owned by Filipino World War II veterans, established in 1992. The bank serves as a tribute to the veterans who fought for the country’s freedom and now plays a crucial role in providing financial services to both the public and private sectors.
As it marks its 32nd year, PVB continues to uphold its mission of contributing to the nation’s economic development while preserving the heroic tales of its founding shareholders.
For more information, visit www.veteransbank.com.ph or contact PVB at (632) 7902-1600.
– 30 –
by | Aug 11, 2024 | Business
Careless skincare manufacturers focus on hot new ingredients that may harm your skin. Don’t fall for the marketing hype when you see those untested chemicals.
Over 60 percent of all women report having sensitive skin. That’s an absolutely shocking number — but many skincare brands don’t seem to care.
The next time you’re out shopping for a lotion, salve or balm, take a look at what’s being advertised. To many people, if they see an extract named after a flower, leaf or tree, it gives the impression that the product must be “natural” — and natural means healthy, right?
In reality, those extracts and isolates are just chemicals — and they’re totally untested. Skincare brands don’t have to prove that anything actually works, or even that it’s from the source that they say it is.
The problem is particularly pressing in the Philippines, where rampant air pollution and powerful sunlight are constantly assaulting exposed skin. The ultrafine particles (UFPs) produced by our endless traffic gridlocks have been shown to cause skin inflammation and other issues.
In an environment that’s already so challenging, can your skin take yet another hit from harsh skincare products?
A problem with many layers
Skincare products all include several types of ingredients, such as surfactants, preservatives and humectants. Each of these ingredients can potentially cause issues.
Take sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) for example. The surfactant, which can be made from natural coconut oil, makes cleansers foam up nicely in a way that makes users say: “Ahh! Fresh, clean skin!” That’s why a huge number of skincare brands use SLS in their products.
But SLS causes skin irritation in many people, which may only appear hours or days after usage. Worse, SLS has been found to be frequently contaminated with carcinogens, which can damage skin and even cause cancer.
And SLS isn’t even the active ingredient — it’s just part of the supporting cast.
But most consumers aren’t familiar enough with what’s on their skincare product’s label to know what to avoid. And so many skincare brands feel free to continue using problematic ingredients.
A new trend toward sensitive-friendly products
However, many people — and their dermatologists — have now caught on to the idea that a seemingly meticulous skincare routine can cause more harm than good.
That’s why some leading-edge brands have started focusing on sensitive skin friendly products. After all, with over half of all people reporting sensitive skin, it’s clearly a large market.
One recently launched brand, Croia, has worked with Philippines-based laboratory to assemble ingredient lists that are scientifically proven to work well with sensitive skin conditions.
“I’ve personally struggled with sensitive skin, and eczema, my whole life,” says Erika Castro-Morrison, Croia’s co-founder. “My whole family has. I got really tired of having to second guess my skincare routine.”
Both eczema and acne are widespread among Filipinas. Croia’s before-and-after testers have shared images with the company of their progress after using the milder topicals that the company offers.
For now, Croia is offering a collection of 5 products, ranging from the mild retinol, acne cleansers, toner, and moisturizer.
Croia is also trying to solve problems specific to the Filipino market, like that ever-present air pollution. Methionine, one of the ingredients in the Amino Acid Cleanser, is an amino acid already found in your body, and has been proven to help prevent damage from pollutants.
With any luck, the future of healthy, safe skincare will be bright — and so will your skin.
Croia products can be found at: Croia-Aoife.com, TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Shopee.
You must be logged in to post a comment.