by Ferry Bayu | Oct 11, 2023 | Business
RCBC and Hungarian FinTech partnership opens doors to OFW digital banking
TAGUIG, PHILIPPINES – The Philippines’ first embedded finance
initiative for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through the collaboration
between Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) and Hungary-based fintech
Peak Card Services Ltd. (Peak) and Columbus Private Equity Fund (Columbus) was
announced during the series of events organized for the
celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Hungary – Philippines diplomatic
relations in Manila. The partnership would soon enable OFWs to download the
Peak mobile app with RCBC embedded digital banking platform, allowing them to
open an RCBC peso and Hungary foreign accounts in a single app assisting them
in managing their finances while working abroad and supporting their family
back home.
Founder and CEO of Peak Hungary Márton Suppan, RCBC President and CEO
Eugene Acevedo, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and
Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva, and Columbus Private Equity Fund Board
Member Gábor Rudas signed the Memorandum of Understanding sealing the embedded
finance partnership. It was witnessed by the Ambassador of Hungary to the
Philippines Titanilla Tóth, Prime Minister’s Commissioner for the protection of
the Hungarian way of life and national values Zsolt V. Németh, Deputy State
Secretary for External Economic Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and Trade of Hungary Katalin Bihari, and Department of Migrant Workers
Undersecretary for Policy and International Cooperation Atty. Patricia Yvonne
Caunan. The signing also coincided with RCBC’s 63rd anniversary.
With the partnership being fully supported by the Hungarian government
through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, OFWs will have access to a
wide range of digital financial services, which include RCBC’s digital lending
such as salary advance, home and car loan, and personal loan. Bank account
holders will also have the opportunity to transfer cash to their loved ones,
invest finances into rewarding financial solutions, acquire medical insurance,
and access other empowering services from RCBC, Peak, and Columbus. The pilot
will kickstart in Hungary and will eventually expand to other European Union
member states and the United Kingdom.
“The unprecedented flow of labor is presenting the world with entirely
new circumstances, unfolding a series of opportunities for agile,
fast-responding companies, and cross-continental collaborations. One such
opportunity is to address the financial challenges of overseas workers. The
quickest collaboration in our 10 years history to be established is the
cooperation between Peak, RCBC, and Columbus well illustrating the immense
market demand,” Suppan said.
In recent years, the European labor market has been expanding
exponentially, drawing more and more Filipino workers to the continent, who
have been recognized for their exceptional English proficiency, religion,
cultural adaptability, and strong work ethic. As Hungary positions itself as a
regional economic powerhouse, the new foreign direct investments the country
managed to attract also lead to an increasing demand for foreign labor force.
The number of OFWs in Hungary is forecasted to grow significantly. Up until
today, several thousands of OFWs have been sent to Hungary. Filipino
expatriates working in the manufacturing and hospitality industry enjoy
generous compensation, free board, and lodging. The growing community of
Filipino workers in the European country has become a considerable market of
interest for banks such as RCBC and Peak, persuading the two financial
providers and a private equity fund to collaborate and provide services through
the power of API technology.
“It has been our pleasure that this partnership was realized during
the Hungarian-Philippine Roundtable Discussion on Labor Market Trends, which
was part of a series of events organized by the Embassy of Hungary in Manila
for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations
between Hungary and the Philippines. The cooperation agreement, which will
provide new cutting-edge digital solutions to prove the close ties between our
nations,” emphasized Ambassador Titanilla Tóth.
RCBC President and Chief Executive Officer Eugene S. Acevedo
highlighted the importance of such partnerships in uplifting the lives of
Filipinos and the enthusiasm of the bank in partaking in a fruitful
partnership. “Teaming up with Peak and Columbus allows RCBC to continue serving
our fellow Filipinos in Hungary. We are committed to delivering a seamless
banking experience to help our customers realize their financial goals even if
they are abroad,” said Acevedo.
“RCBC believes that financial inclusion should not only be for people
who work in our country but it should also include overseas workers who send money back home to
build their dreams for their families,” said Villanueva.
“The bigger picture here is that RCBC, Peak, and Columbus are
redefining financial inclusion through embedded finance as a unique value
proposition, thus, creating the future of digital banking empowering migrant
workers achieve their short-term and long-term goals no matter wherever they
are and whenever they deem it necessary,” added Villanueva.
A 2023 report by global consultancy firm McKinsey found that US$30.5
billion in remittances flow into the country annually, yet banks have not
integrated remittances into their mainstream services and even into creation of
credit profiles of Filipinos. Villanueva highlighted that these findings
motivated RCBC in addressing the needs of overseas workers and their families.
RCBC has been expanding its digital banking services through its RCBC
Pulz, RCBC Diskartech, and RCBC ATM Go services capable of processing and
accepting remittances. With the most recent partnership with Peak, RCBC is
poised to become one of the leading digital-centric banks focused on making
financial services accessible and possible to a greater segment of unbanked and
underserved Filipinos anywhere in the world.
RCBC is the Philippines’ 5th largest privately-owned universal bank and the most awarded for its banking innovations. Among its global and local recognitions include a four-peat award as the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital by Asiamoney, back-to-back wins for Best Financial Inclusion App by The Asian Banker’s Financial Technology Innovations Awards, Gartner Eye for Innovation Award, YouTube Challenger award for its viral and out-of-the-box digital ad campaigns, and Grand Champion for Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion by the Bankers Institute of the Philippines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 10, 2023 | Food & Beverage
The Manila Hotel, renowned for its culinary excellence, joyfully greets the month of October with a selection of dining promotions tailored to its valued clientele.
A Celebration of Beers and Brews
Beer enthusiasts and connoisseurs can partake in a month-long merriment featuring handpicked beers and brews. Ranging from classic lagers to artisanal craft brews, the selection guarantees there’s a beer to cater to every palate.
Brands on showcase include San Miguel Light, Pale, Super Dry, Cerveza Negra, Premium Malt, Engkanto Lager, Honey Ale, Ube Lager, and Mango Nation. Available at the Lobby Lounge, Tap Room, and Pool Bar.
All Treats No Tricks for the Kids
In the spirit of Halloween, The Manila Hotel has a special treat in store for the little ones. Junior guests dining at Café Ilang-Ilang, Lobby Lounge, Red Jade, or Champagne Room on the evening of October 31 will receive complimentary Halloween goodies.
Spooky Confections for Halloween
The Delicatessen presents an assortment of handcrafted confections that reflect both the spooky and sweet aspects of this enchanting holiday. From cookies and cupcakes adorned with ghostly figures to pumpkin lollipops and chocolate-dipped strawberries — these treats are crafted to delight not only kids but also those who remain young at heart.
These sweet bites are available at the Delicatessen from October 15 to November 2, 2023.
Sweet Symphony: Mango Sponge Cake with White Chocolate and Almonds
Guests can indulge in our featured cake this October—a delicious confection with luscious layers of mango sponge cake, white chocolate, and crunchy almonds.
Available at the Delicatessen for everyone’s enjoyment until October 31, 2023.
M Takeout’s Fresh Offerings
The acclaimed takeout service of The Manila Hotel unveils its latest menu, offering its patrons a new variety of dishes that they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes or workplaces.
The highlight of the menu is the introduction of new dishes for Solo Meals & Rice and Noodle Bowls, created to a wider range of tastes and preferences.
Solo Meals encompass a range of cuisines, including Filipino, Chinese, Italian, Korean, Japanese, and Halal. Each meal is thoughtfully paired with an assortment of proteins, carbohydrates, sides, and desserts, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
The Rice and Noodle Bowl selection is equally impressive, featuring White Chicken with Ginger Sauce, Spaghetti Amatriciana, Beef Ho Fan Noodles, and Penne Pasta Pomodoro, to name a few.
A Holiday Prelude: Festive Merienda Especial
As the holiday season approaches, take pleasure in The Manila Hotel’s Festive Merienda Especial—an assortment of French pastries, mini sandwiches, and all-time favorite Filipino delicacies, complemented by a selection of tea, coffee, or the hotel’s signature hot chocolate.
Available from Monday to Sunday at the Lobby Lounge from 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
To know more about these offers, please call +632 8527-0011 or +632 5301-5500, email re************@************el.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated in the heart of the City of Manila. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Over the years, The Manila Hotel continuously provides 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. It 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 is a fine-dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine and
- Delicatessens offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 10, 2023 | Business
Cracking the Code: Proven Strategies for SMEs to Excel in Digital Marketing
In 2023, SMEs must navigate the digital landscape strategically. This article highlights key trends: prioritizing Local SEO for local visibility, investing in engaging video content for platforms like YouTube and TikTok, creating versatile content for multiple platforms, ensuring a seamless mobile experience, and embracing data-driven decision making. Author Hamza, a seasoned entrepreneur, simplifies digital marketing intricacies, offering SMEs a clear roadmap to success. By adapting to these trends, businesses can crack the code of digital marketing, enhance customer satisfaction, and foster long-term success in the competitive digital realm.
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is essential for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) aiming to make a mark in the competitive market. As we step into 2023, several trends have emerged, offering exciting opportunities for businesses to thrive in the digital realm. Here’s expert advice tailored for SME owners, revealing the secrets to cracking the code of digital marketing and achieving unparalleled success.
Leveraging the Power of Local SEO
In the bustling local market, the importance of Local Search Engine Optimization (SEO) cannot be overstated. SMEs can no longer afford to ignore the potential of local customers searching for products and services online. By optimizing your online presence with local keywords, accurate business information, and customer reviews, you can significantly enhance your visibility in local search results. This not only attracts more foot traffic but also ensures that your business is easily discoverable in the digital space.
Investing in Compelling Video Marketing
Video content continues to dominate the digital landscape in 2023. With platforms like YouTube, Instagram Reels, and TikTok gaining unprecedented popularity, SMEs have a golden opportunity to engage their audience through captivating video content. Videos provide a dynamic way to showcase your products or services, allowing potential customers to experience them virtually. Whether it’s product demonstrations, customer testimonials, or behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business, investing in high-quality video marketing can create a lasting impact and foster stronger connections with your audience.
Creating Versatile Content for Multiple Platforms
Content is the cornerstone of any successful digital marketing strategy. However, in 2023, the focus has shifted towards creating versatile content that can be repurposed across multiple platforms. Whether it’s blog posts, infographics, podcasts, or social media updates, diversifying your content allows you to reach a wider audience. Repurposing content not only saves time and effort but also ensures consistent messaging across various channels. By tailoring your content to suit different platforms and audience preferences, you can maximize your reach and engagement, driving more leads and conversions.
Prioritizing a Mobile-Optimized Experience
In an era where smartphones have become an extension of ourselves, ensuring a seamless mobile experience for your audience is non-negotiable. A mobile-optimized website is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Mobile users should be able to navigate your website effortlessly, access essential information, and make purchases without encountering any glitches. Google’s algorithms also favor mobile-friendly websites, making it imperative for SMEs to invest in responsive design and user-friendly interfaces. By prioritizing mobile optimization, you not only enhance user satisfaction but also improve your search engine rankings, driving more organic traffic to your site.
Embracing Data-Driven Decision Making
In the data-driven digital age, SMEs have access to a wealth of information that can guide strategic decision-making. Analyzing customer behavior, preferences, and interaction patterns provides invaluable insights that can shape your marketing initiatives. Utilize tools and analytics to track website traffic, monitor social media engagement, and evaluate the performance of your campaigns. By understanding what works and what doesn’t, you can refine your strategies, allocate resources effectively, and deliver a personalized experience to your audience. Data-driven decision making not only optimizes your marketing efforts but also enhances customer satisfaction, fostering long-term loyalty and brand advocacy.
In conclusion, the key to excelling in digital marketing for SMEs lies in embracing these trends and implementing them strategically. By leveraging Local SEO, investing in compelling video marketing, creating versatile content, prioritizing a mobile-optimized experience, and embracing data-driven decision making, you can crack the code of digital marketing in 2023. Stay ahead of the curve, adapt to the changing landscape, and watch your SME flourish in the digital realm.
About the Author:
Meet Hamza, an entrepreneurial luminary with 15 years of global business acumen spanning Oman, UAE, Qatar, and more. Fluent in eight languages, including English, German, and Hindi, Hamza’s diverse linguistic prowess enriches his understanding of international markets. His book, “Unlocking Growth: Strategies for Small Businesses in the Digital Landscape,” serves as a guide for SMEs who want to get more clients through digital marketing. With five successful ventures under his belt, Hamza simplifies digital marketing intricacies, offering a clear roadmap for small businesses.
Featured in top digital platforms like Bezinga and Fox News group, Hamza’s expertise shines. He invites entrepreneurs to join him on a journey of empowerment. Dive into his insights, navigate the digital realm, and unlock your business’s true potential under his expert guidance.
Getbuzz Solutions is a results-driven marketing agency with over 100 clients from SME owners to MNC clients. We strive to help business owners to succeed in digital marketing.
Mohamed Farshad Hamza
in**********@***il.com
https://www.rfrma.com
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 10, 2023 | Business
Expanding Horizons: NEXTASIA Land Celebrates Phase 2 in Lipa City After Phase 1 Success
NEXTASIA Land Celebrates
Phase 2 Groundbreaking After Remarkable Phase 1 Sell-Out LIPA CITY, PHILIPPINES
– October 4, 2023 — NEXTASIA Land, a renowned real estate developer, is
delighted to announce the official groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 2 of its
highly successful NEXTASIA Lipa development. This momentous event follows a
remarkable 100% sell-out in Phase 1, highlighting the robust demand and
community trust in NEXTASIA Land.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held last October
4, was graced by a distinguished group of guests and stakeholders, including:
• Honorable Mayor Eric
Africa – Lipa City Mayor
• Chief of Staff Giovanni
Librea –
• Representing Mayor Eric Africa
• Dustin Carreon – Chief
Operating Officer and Brand Ambassador, NEXTASIA Land
• Architect Tristan
Carreon – Vice President of Project Planning and Development, NEXTASIA
Land
• Architect Ruffy Senosa
– Department Head of Project Management, NEXTASIA Land Inc.
NEXTASIA Land’s commitment to delivering
outstanding real estate projects that positively impact the local community is
evident in the Phase 2 development. This expansion promises to be a significant
addition to Lipa City’s landscape, featuring digital connectivity, broadband
readiness, solar-powered streetlights, and a Pet Park, alongside modern
amenities, green spaces, and a vibrant community environment.
The groundbreaking ceremony signifies the
commencement of construction activities for Phase 2, with NEXTASIA Land’s
dedicated team working diligently to transform this vision into reality. As
Phase 2 progresses, NEXTASIA Land remains dedicated to upholding its tradition
of excellence in real estate development.
For more information about NEXTASIA and NEXTASIA LIPA, please visit https://nextasialand.com or contact +632 8856 0834
About NEXTASIA:
NEXTASIA Land is a rapidly emerging key player in the real estate industry, garnering acclaim for its commitment to constructing future-proof, digitally-enabled, value-oriented, and sustainable living spaces. Their visionary approach centers around fostering community engagement, embracing environmental responsibility, and promoting economic resilience. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative design, NEXTASIA Land is revolutionizing the way people experience and connect with their homes.
Cristina Carreon
09171502869
cr**************@**********nd.com
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 9, 2023 | Business
Takids x QibuQibu G6 Pro AI Dictionary/Translation Pen
The G6 Pro makes learning languages faster and more convenient with the size of a pen.
With built-in functions, children or adults can learn from translating single line to paragraphs.
Deidre Global Consulting has been established since 2018 specialized in education consulting. Giving peace of mind to parents in making wise decisions for the children.
erson In Charge: Deidre Foo
Phone Number: +65 87578208
Email Address: op********@********************ng.com
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 9, 2023 | Business
Emergency Care: When and How To Use a Puppy Nursing Bottle
Singapore, October 9, 2023 – Puppies and kittens are not just adorable; they are also incredibly vulnerable and require specialized care. One of the most critical aspects of this care is feeding, especially when the mother is absent. Race&Herd introduces its Puppy Nursing Bottle as an essential tool for the survival and healthy development of these young animals.
Puppies and kittens are irresistibly cute but also extremely vulnerable, especially when orphaned or abandoned. In such cases, feeding becomes a significant concern, and that’s where a puppy nursing bottle comes into play. When the mother dog is not around or unable to nurse, these bottles serve as a lifeline for the young ones.The importance of proper feeding cannot be overstated. Malnutrition in the early stages of life can lead to long-term health issues, including weakened immune systems and developmental delays. That’s why Race&Herd has invested in creating a Puppy Nursing Bottle that is not just functional but also safe and easy to use.Race&Herd’s Puppy Nursing Bottle is designed to mimic the natural feeding experience as closely as possible. The bottle comes with a specially designed nipple that allows for controlled flow, ensuring that the puppies and kittens get the nutrients they need without the risk of aspiration. The bottle itself is made from non-toxic, BPA-free materials, making it the safest and most effective choice for your pets.But it’s not just about the bottle; it’s also about educating pet owners. Many people are unaware of the nuances involved in bottle-feeding young animals. Overfeeding or using the wrong type of formula can have adverse effects. That’s why the Race&Herd Puppy Nursing Bottle comes with a comprehensive guide that walks you through the process, from choosing the right formula to understanding feeding schedules. This ensures that pet owners are well-equipped to provide the best care possible.Additionally, the Race&Herd Puppy Nursing Bottle is versatile and can be used for a variety of small animals, not just puppies and kittens. Whether you’re caring for baby rabbits, squirrels, or even small farm animals, this bottle has you covered.In summary, the Race&Herd Puppy Nursing Bottle is more than just a feeding tool; it’s a complete care package designed to ensure the health and well-being of the most vulnerable members of the animal kingdom.About the Company:Race&Herd is more than just a pet supply and wellness brand; we are a community of animal lovers. We understand that pets are not just companions but family members. Our products are designed to deepen the bond between animals and humans, whether through play or care. We believe that caring for a pet can enhance human lives, offering a better quality of life and an enhanced sense of purpose, all while receiving unconditional love from the animals in their lives.
At Race&Herd, we understand that our pets are more than companions – they are family members. As such, we are dedicated to offering products designed to deepen the bond between animals and humans, whether that is through play or care.
We believe that caring for a pet, whether a horse, dog, cat or any other creatures, can help humans live happier, healthier, and more stress-free lives. Studies have shown that by caring for a pet, humans experience a better quality of life and an enhanced sense of purpose – all while receiving unconditional love from the animals in their lives.
Person In Charge: Deidre Foo
Phone Number: +65 87578208
Email Address: op********@********************ng.com
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 9, 2023 | Banking and Finance
Do you find it cumbersome to always have to carry cash? Have you missed out on a dream purchase because you didn’t have enough cash on hand? Or had to forgo an online plane ticket purchase for a family trip? With a credit card, these worries are a thing of the past, offering you convenience and peace of mind.
Credit cards open up a world of benefits, especially when used wisely. They are universally accepted, allowing you to travel, dine, and shop without the burden of cash. Plus, they often come with a range of rewards, discounts, and deals, making your experiences more enjoyable and cost-effective.
Despite the numerous benefits, some people are hesitant to apply for a credit card, often due to concerns about high interest rates. However, by using your card sensibly and paying on time, you can fully enjoy its advantages. It’s important to choose a card that suits your lifestyle, and with responsible use, it can significantly improve your life.
Having a credit card means that you can typically gain access to exclusive discounts or benefits, receive rewards, and earn points, which could be redeemed for travel, dining, or cash equivalent for daily purchases. Credit cards also offer substantial cashback rewards for purchases made at supermarkets, gas stations, pharmacies, and with other merchants, including airlines and partner restaurants that have special discounts and seasonal promos you can enjoy with your loved ones.
A credit card is an extension of your spending capacity. It enhances your purchasing power, especially in securing products and services – from your everyday needs, such as gas, groceries, coffee, and medicines, to high ticket items, such as treating your family to a staycation or vacation, finally getting that gadget you have wanted for so long, front row concert tickets to your favorite band, upgrading your home appliances, or buying your loved one a jewelry for that important milestone.
Depending on your choice and lifestyle, credit cards offer entertainment treats, privileges, seasonal dining promos, free travel insurance coverage, cashback on overseas shopping, and the ability to buy now and pay later, to name a few. There are various incentives, too, including travel benefits, hotel and restaurant discounts, and travel perks (such as the privilege of relaxing in posh airline lounges) to make your trips stylish, more exciting, and twice the fun!
Online shopping? Credit cards assure you of a more protected and seamless e-commerce purchase with features like encryption, multifactor authentication, and fraud monitoring.
A credit card from BDO, one of the leading banks in the Philippines, for instance, offers year-round deals and exclusive dining deals for up to 50% off. It also provides ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ options, a feature that allows you to make a purchase and pay for it in installments over a period of time, often without interest. This, along with 0% interest on big-ticket purchases, lets you earn Peso Rewards and more.
There is no better time than now to own at least one BDO Credit Card! When you apply for a BDO Credit Card, you can get up to a P25,000 cashback credit when you meet the minimum spending requirement. The promo runs until October 31, 2023. Qualified cards are Mastercard, Visa, JCB, UnionPay, Diners Club, and BDO-issued American Express. Terms and conditions apply.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 9, 2023 | Business
Successful Business Surviving the Pandemic, Turns Out This is the Key!
Hayokerja.com’s participation at the Indonesia SME Summit and Expo 2023 offers creative solutions that help many companies to increase efficiency in terms of workforce fulfillment.
Founded in 2019, hayokerja.com started its journey as a
simple start-up with a team consisting of only three people. By bringing the
innovative idea of combining a job portal with head hunter consultation,
initially this company was quickly accepted as an additional creative solution
in dealing with employment fulfillment problems. However, like most other
companies, when the pandemic occurred, instead of increasing the number of
employees, many client companies actually wanted to reduce the number as a measure
to survive this situation.
This challenge was then faced by hayokerja.com by adapting
and changing its business model which gave birth to a new idea, namely an
application platform-based partnership system, plus integrated social community
system management. In this way, hayokerja.com clients can flexibly increase or
decrease the number of workers needed according to the situation.
Alexander Ivan Tirta, CEO of hayokerja.com said, “This
concept turned out to be effective in providing assistance to companies
affected by the pandemic, especially logistics and warehousing companies which
require a flexible number of workers, when they are busy they ask for a lot of
human resources, and when they are quiet they asked to reduce the number of
human resources”
The HayoKerja booth at the Indonesia SME Summit and Expo
(ISSE) 29-31 August 2023 was widely visited, where CEO Alexander Ivan appeared
as one of the speakers.
After almost 5 years of existence and believing in the
success of its concept, the company took a big step forward. Appearing at the
ISSE 2023 offline event, hayokerja.com introduced itself to the public for the
first time.
“We have learned a lot, done a lot of trials and found
solutions for workforce efficiency that really help our clients’ businesses,
especially in difficult times. Initially we limited the number of clients that
could be served, because we realized that this concept was still new and needed
proof by “Now, after almost 5 years of testing, we are now ready to open
the doors to help new clients,” said Ivan.
Throughout its journey since it was founded in 2019,
hayokerja.com has been recorded as having helped more than 10,000 worker
partners to get jobs and helped 20 companies survive the pandemic with this
concept, from micro to multinational scale.
HayoKerja is a labor supplier with a partnership or daily freelance concept through an application platform and integrated social community management.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 8, 2023 | Business
Asia groups rally against IMF, World Bank, G7; calls for reparations, stop to fossil fuel financing
Climate groups from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and the Philippines held simultaneous mass actions across Asia to urge the World Bank and International Monetary Fund to cancel debts of Global South countries and stop financing fossil fuel projects. The rallies were timed with the 2023 annual meeting of the two financing institutions happening now in Marrakech, Morocco.
Members of the Asian Peoples’ Movement on Debt and Development (APMDD) took to the streets last October 12, scoring the World Bank (WB), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and G7 governments for worsening economic conditions in Global South countries and for further exacerbating the climate crisis. In the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal, they rallied around a common call: “cancel the debt and pay reparations for historical climate and economic injustices.”
Timed with the 2023 annual meeting of the IMF and World Bank, the rallyists joined hundreds of other organizations worldwide marking the Global Week of Action for Debt, Climate and Economic Justice. A statement endorsed by close to 500 organizations and individuals from 74 countries across all global regions denounced the IMF-WB, that “together with other private and public lenders, perpetuate a flawed international financial architecture that exacerbates debt, climate, and economic crises, violating the basic needs and rights of millions of people and nature who have the least contribution, responsibility or control over these catastrophes.”
In the Philippines, hundreds of demonstrators marched to Mendiola, gateway to the presidential palace, with the call “Cancel the debt and pay reparations for historical and continuing injustices!” Ousted dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. remains known for his repressive rule as well as for crony capitalism, massive ill-gotten wealth hidden in tax havens and billions of dollars in public debt that served no benefit for the Filipino people. Current President Marcos Jr. shows no sign of moving to repeal the dictator’s Automatic Appropriations decree, which remains in place and continues to ensure that debt repayments are made over any other public need.
Protesters also slammed the Philippine government’s continued expansion and support for debt-funded fossil fuel projects that they decried as ‘illegitimate’ for contributing to the climate crisis, dislocating communities and violating human rights.
“Global South governments should stop paying these illegitimate debts!” said Lidy Nacpil, APMDD Coordinator. “At the same time, lenders such as the IMF, the World Bank and G7 governments should stop pushing more loans as climate finance, and swiftly start the process of debt cancellation, adoption of wealth taxes for spending on urgent economic and climate action, and the rechanneling of public funds away from fossil fuel subsidies towards renewable energy systems.”
Rovik Obanil, Freedom from Debt Coalition Secretary General, recalled how the IMF and World Bank offered solutions in the form of “structural adjustment loans”, that came with such conditions as privatizing basic services and opening the Philippine economy to foreign investors. “These conditionalities were put in place decades ago but the consequences continue to violate our basic rights. Privatization reduces people’s access to water and electricity by catering only to those with the capacity to pay. Tax incentives rob us of potential revenue for urgent public needs. But loans continue to be pushed, including pushing loans for climate finance upon Global South peoples who least contributed to the climate crisis.”
SANLAKAS President Manjette Lopez noted growing discontent over skyrocketing prices of food staples and other goods and services. “From one administration to the next, the Filipino people are promised higher incomes, decent homes, adequate food, only to have these promises broken by elite and corporate-captured administrations, including the Marcos Jr. presidency. It’s time to cut the ties that bind us to international financial institutions such as the IMF-WB and their debt-creating solutions, but that can only happen with working people and communities at the forefront of bigger and bolder fights for jobs, living wages, a decent life and a sustainable future.”
Ian Rivera, National Coordinator of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice said: “The IMF, World Bank and the G7 are again pushing their standard response to crisis in the Global South — more loans. Even climate finance, which is their obligation to deliver for contributing the most to the climate crisis, is in the form of more loans. This is clearly unjust. We demand grants-based climate finance and the cancellation of loans incurred from fossil fuel projects.”
For Oriang President Flora Santos, the IMF-World Bank’s gender mainstreaming strategy must be exposed for exploiting women’s unpaid care work to make up for the lack of public social services. “These international financial institutions brag about promoting women’s empowerment. The truth is that the IMF’s austerity loan conditions, such as budget cuts in public services, reductions in the public sector wage bill and regressive taxes, lead to reduced access to essential services, loss of livelihoods and increased unpaid work for women.”
APMDD (Asian People’s Movement on Debt and Development ) is a regional alliance of people’s movements, community organizations, coalitions, NGOs and networks
Annalyn JusayZ
+639190049558
me********@***il.com
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 6, 2023 | Business
GCash launches prepaid debit card in partnership with Visa
GCash has launched a prepaid debit card in partnership with Visa to help its users with cashless payments.
In a statement, GCash said fully verified users of their app can get the card by go to ”View all”, then find the “Manage” section. Users can then click on “Cards” and tap “Order a GCash Card”.
With the GCash Card, customers can make cashless payments in groceries, restaurants, retail stores, transportation, and make online payments.
The partnership with Visa also means the card can be used in over 200 countries and territories, at over 100 million merchants that accept Visa as payment.
Users who have availed of the GCash Card will also have access to GInsure, where they can get free insurance of up to P20,000 coverage for unauthorized transactions for the first 30 days after activation.
This also includes the P185 price for card replacement in the event of accidental loss or damage to the card, as well as the shipping fee of up to P225.
G-Exchange president and CEO Ren-Ren Reyes said the card will be helpful for Filipinos with informal sources of incomes like freelancers and independent professionals as well as micro and small enterprises.
“GCash is giving every Filipino, whoever or wherever they are, the benefits of owning a card, especially those with no bank accounts or documents typically required to apply for a card,” he said.
Guests can indulge in our featured cake this October—a delicious confection with luscious layers of mango sponge cake, white chocolate, and crunchy almonds.
The acclaimed takeout service of The Manila Hotel unveils its latest menu, offering its patrons a new variety of dishes that they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes or workplaces.
As the holiday season approaches, take pleasure in The Manila Hotel’s Festive Merienda Especial—an assortment of French pastries, mini sandwiches, and all-time favorite Filipino delicacies, complemented by a selection of tea, coffee, or the hotel’s signature hot chocolate.
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