by Ferry Bayu | Dec 24, 2024 | Lifestyle
Banwa Private Island is a luxurious retreat located in the pristine waters of the Sulu Sea in Palawan, Philippines. Recently, the island achieved a significant milestone by certifying 63 of its front-line staff under the Philippines’ Department of Tourism’s (DOT) award-winning Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.
This certification highlights the island’s dedication to delivering world-class hospitality infused with a unique Filipino touch. In addition to its exclusive accommodations and top-notch amenities, Banwa Private Island is deeply connected to Filipino culture and tradition. The island’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly practices, such as sourcing local ingredients from its own organic farm and minimizing waste. Discover the ultimate luxury escape and experience the warmth of Filipino hospitality at Banwa Private Island.
Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury retreat located in the pristine waters of the Sulu Sea in Palawan, Philippines, is proud to announce that 63 of its front-line staff have been certified under the Philippines Department of Tourism’s award-winning Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.
Janet Oquendo, the Island Manager of Banwa Private Island, emphasized the island’s commitment to delivering world-class hospitality infused with a unique Filipino touch. She stated, “By participating in the FBSE program and certifying 63 of our frontliners, we aim to elevate our service standards even further and ensure that our guests experience the warmth and authenticity of Filipino hospitality.”
Banwa Private Island provides an unmatched luxury experience. For three consecutive years, Destination Deluxe has recognized it as the ‘Private Island of the Year,’ and for two years in a row, Robb Report has featured it in its list of ‘The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth.’ In addition to its exclusive accommodations and world-class amenities, the island is deeply connected to Filipino culture and tradition.
The DOT’s FBSE program, recognized as the Training Program of the Year at the GovMedia Awards 2024, has empowered thousands of tourism industry professionals to deliver exceptional service. By embracing the seven core values of Filipino hospitality:
- Maka-Diyos (God-fearing),
- Makatao (People-oriented),
- Makakalikasan (Environmentally-conscious),
- Makabansa (Nationalistic),
- Masayahin (Cheerful),
- May Bayanihan (Community-spirited), and
- May Pagasa (Hopeful)
The team at Banwa Private Island is dedicated to providing warm and sincere service. This commitment is evident in their iconic “Mabuhay” gesture and their personalized attention to detail.
Through the FBSE program, the 63 certified frontliners at Banwa Private Island are now equipped to deliver world-class service, ensuring that every guest experiences the warmth and hospitality the Philippines is known for.
Banwa Private Island is recognized as one of the Philippines’ key areas for sharks and rays. It is not only an exclusive destination but also a responsible steward of the environment. The island’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly practices, such as sourcing local ingredients from its own organic farm and minimizing waste.
In addition to its operational sustainability, Banwa Private Island actively participates in various conservation programs, including marine conservation initiatives and coral reef restoration projects. By preserving the natural beauty of the Sulu Sea, the island is ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Banwa Private Island is also known for its pristine natural environment, featuring an artesian well that provides fresh spring water and a naturally mosquito-free ecosystem.
By participating in the FBSE program, Banwa Private Island reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality with a Filipino touch. The island’s dedication to excellence and sustainability ensures that guests will have a genuinely unforgettable and authentic Filipino experience.For more information or to inquire about booking an island escape at Banwa Private Island, please get in touch with our Reservations team via mobile/WhatsApp at +639178882864, send an email to re**********@****************nd.com, or visit our website at www.banwaprivateisland.com.
by | Dec 24, 2024 | Business
Almost 300 entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business enthusiasts gathered in Metro Manila on November 10, 2024, to celebrate the first anniversary of the PH Business Network (PBN) through its PBN@ONE event. The gathering highlighted PBN’s achievements in supporting Filipino businesses, featuring insightful talks, engaging panel discussions on MSME growth and innovation, and networking opportunities. 
JR Quilantang, co-founder of PBN, kicked off the event with inspiring opening remarks, reflecting on PBN’s journey and mission to drive growth and collaboration among Filipino businesses.
“History is made here in One Esplanade wherein we celebrate this milestone in creating an environment for Filipino MSMEs dedicated for growth and support”
Hosted by Amplified Man, the event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, engaging panel discussions, and networking opportunities that fostered new partnerships and shared learning experiences.
Speaker Highlights and Insightful Panels
The event featured notable speakers and panel discussions, focusing on crucial topics for business growth and sustainability:
Kim Selorio opened the talks with insights on raising capital for MSMEs, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Kim Tiu Selorio of Goldwater Capital. Panelists Juls Muncal of Security Bank, Pamela Esquivel of DeepOffice Inc., Mylene Chua-Magleo of Paynamics Technologies Inc., and Tina Sosa-Cayetano of Home Kings Philippines shared their expertise on financing for small businesses.
Camille Vargas delivered a talk on the importance of food safety in business, followed by a panel discussion led by Yuri Dela Paz.
Panelists Micah Filip Fernando of Tranko, GrowSari, Yam Torral of Passion Cakes PH, and Chef Derek Limpo of Teppan Teppan (and over 100 other restaurant branches) discussed the nuances of food industry practices.
Real Talk Darbs captivated the audience with strategies for effective content creation that drives business engagement, while Mommy Negosyo offered insights on scaling a business sustainably.
Mark Sultan concluded the lineup with an in-depth look at grants from the National Innovation Commission, providing practical advice for MSMEs looking to innovate and grow.
Notable Guests: Community Leaders, Influencers, and Business Personalities
The event also welcomed special guests and notable figures from the business and entrepreneurial sectors, including John Pagulayan, Eric Joseph Tolo, MJ Dela Cruz, Toni Tagle, MK Bertulfo, Eb Fajardo, Ken Ken Somera, Harry Singh, Ms. Ayyang, Kaye Labay, Carl Munsayac and others.
Their presence underscored the spirit of collaboration and mentorship that PBN champions, providing attendees with valuable connections and insights from established leaders.
Fostering New Connections
The event created a welcoming environment for networking, especially for many first-time entrepreneurs.
Attendees appreciated the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships with peers who share similar aspirations and entrepreneurial goals.
Sponsors and Media Partners
The success of PBN@ONE was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and media partners:
Platinum Sponsors: Alli Accounting, 102X, Kaskasan Buddies, GoNutrients, ERT CDE Holdings, Security Bank, Pru Life, and Deep Office Inc.
Gold Sponsors: Recurra, School of Life Systems by Harry, Ready 2 Scale, Singlife Insurance, GoTyme Bank, Magnificat Apparels, Princess Monica Rodulfo, Janica Abu of Oh Dear and UpCloud Accounting.
Special Sponsors included RWND Mobile Coffee Bar, Digital Mirror Photo Booth, Events Rental Hub, 8Jars Photobooth and Rentals, Tipsy Juan, Passion Cakes PH, and SeaBank.
PBN’s Media Partners, Digital Brothers PH, VRITIMES, and Sine Haraya, played a key role in amplifying the event’s reach, spreading the event’s inspiring message to a wider audience.
Generous Raffle and Giveaway Sponsors
Adding excitement to the event, PBN@ONE featured raffles and giveaways sponsored by ZK 3D Labs, AURA Skin Care Solutions, Harry Singh, Luljetta’s Place, Marshwind Sanctuary, Ken Ken Somera, Shan Sebastian, Marica Almacin, Princess Monica Q. Rodulfo, Prime Shirts, KDM ESPORTS AND INTERNET CAFE, and April Garcia.
A Vision for the Future
Shan Sebastian, co-founder of PH Business Network, delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors.
With a powerful message of optimism and ambition, he stated, “This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to see where PBN can go from here. We’re on the road to reaching 1 million members, to becoming the largest MSME movement in the Philippines!”
With a commitment to nurturing Filipino businesses and fostering a community of innovation and resilience, this successful event with only a month preparation has set the stage for continued growth and impact in the coming years.
As PBN steps on its second year, it stands poised to be a valuable resource and advocate for the local business community, empowering entrepreneurs to succeed on a national and global scale.
by | Dec 24, 2024 | Business
The inaugural GoodFest Event showcases padel sport and other wellness experiences while spotlighting ASCARO Padel & Social Club as the ideal location for hosting health and wellness activities and events.
KUALA LUMPUR, December 2024 – ASCARO Padel & Social Club, Malaysia’s premiere padel destination hosted the inaugural GoodFest Event this past weekend featuring a variety of wellness activities and a padel tournament.
As the padel sport has been gaining popularity, the event was attended by about 400 people including regular players, wellness enthusiasts, influencers, and experts from different specialties. There was also a padel tournament, The GoodFest Cup, which added a healthy dose of competition.
“I was absolutely thrilled by the amazing turnout at GoodFest! The event was a perfect blend of wellness, fun, and padel – all complemented by a fantastic weather and enthusiastic guests,” shared Deserie Martinez, Head of Events and Communications at ASCARO.
THE GOODFEST EVENT
The GoodFest event showcased more than just padel as other wellness activities were also available for participants, ranging from restorative activities like yoga, meditation, and breathwork to strength-building like pilates, core and circuit workouts and barre.
While there were many physical healthy activities, there were also talks that served as valuable food for thought. One of the topics highlighted was about ‘Mastering Manhood’ by Mauri, opening the conversation about what modern masculinity is expected in our current society. This talk brought to light the complex terrains of men needing to balance the personal and professional, with the need to stay physically and mentally strong. The talk encouraged the benefits of belonging to a supportive men’s community – one that can be fostered in places like the padel courts.
The other talk was about stem cell technology and how it has revolutionized the wellness space by Dr. Jezzamine Lim, CEO and founder of Cell Biopeutics Resources Malaysia. Cellular performance plays a big role in the recovery and aging aspect of wellness journeys; this biotechnology has introduced stem cell therapy and stem-cell-derived cosmetic products.
Finally, a padel tournament, the GoodFest Cup was the main event with 98 players competing for prizes and wellness goodies.
PROMOTING PADEL AND WELLNESS
Aside from the activities at the event, there were also a variety of products, rehab and physio consultations, and various other wellness-supportive brands. These included So Good, Dunlopillo, Fred Perry, Precise Rehab, Regen Physio & Sports Rehab, L’evive, l1vin, Glaceau Vitamin Water, Perrier and Licky Chan.
“We’re proud to have been a part of the GoodFest event, to highlight the importance of health and wellness to a vibrant audience. The event was an incredible opportunity to share the goodness of So Good plant-based milks, delighting attendees with delicious range of Oat, Almond and Soy milks and wholesome nutrition in every sip,” said Ashleigh Rothel, the Senior Brand Manager of International Sanitarium Health Food Company.
Cudis, the first AI smart ring that rewards your wellness journey was also there to introduce their technology.
“The GoodFest focus on holistic health, fitness and mindfulness perfectly reflected Cudis’ core values in empowering individuals on their wellness journey. It was great to connect with passionate fitness enthusiasts and wellness advocates and we’re thrilled to have been part of such a dynamic community event,” said Edison Chen, the Co-Founder and CEO of Cudis.
Finally, Martinez expressed her gratitude to everyone who made GoodFest a one-of-a-kind experience, adding, “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us – our sponsors, instructors and speakers and of course ASCARO and Paloma – we are looking forward to having more events such as these!”
by Ferry Bayu | Dec 24, 2024 | Business
Asuene APAC, the overseas subsidiary of Asuene Inc., has forged a significant partnership with PT ASLI Satu Indonesia, a leading Indonesian IT startup. This partnership introduces the powerful ‘ASUENE’ carbon accounting platform, a service that enables the visualization, reduction, and reporting of CO2 emissions. The aim of this partnership is not just to advance but to significantly accelerate decarbonization efforts in Indonesia’s logistics and transportation industry.
Decarbonization and Sustainability in Indonesia’s Logistics Industry
The Indonesian government has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 29% by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2060. Despite these ambitious national goals, the logistics industry currently lacks specific guidelines for sustainability. This is particularly critical in Indonesia, an archipelago with over 17,500 islands where diverse transportation methods—road, ferry, maritime, and air—create a highly complex logistics network.
Rapid economic growth and the industry’s important role in Indonesia’s economy underline the importance of private sector innovation in driving sustainability.
Details of the Partnership and the Introduction of “ASUENE”
ASUENE provides a comprehensive platform for visualizing, reducing, and reporting CO2 emissions across the supply chain, following the GHG Protocol’s Scope 1-3 framework. Coupled with Sustainability Transformation (SX) consulting, the platform delivers a one-stop solution for decarbonization management.
ASLI Satu, the operator of Indonesia’s first multimodal logistics platform, KADEX, is known for its reliability and efficiency. It integrates multiple transportation methods, such as ferries, buses, motorcycles, and trains, into a unified logistics solution. Its strategic partnerships with state-owned enterprises like KAI (Indonesia Railways), DAMRI (bus transport), and ASDP (ferry services) further enhance its reliability and efficiency, making it a preferred choice for logistics services across Indonesia.
ASLI Satu’s introduction of ASUENE to gain transparency into its CO2 emissions is a clear demonstration of its commitment to sustainability. This commitment, which is a key differentiator in a competitive market, enables data-driven strategies for emission reduction across its operations. The platform’s adoption underscores ASLI Satu’s leadership in driving sustainability in the industry.
As part of this collaboration, Asuene APAC and ASLI Satu have signed a partnership agreement with a clear vision: to promote ASUENE adoption across Indonesia’s logistics and transportation sectors. This agreement is not just a commitment but a promise to foster an environmentally conscious logistics industry in Indonesia, bringing us closer to achieving our sustainability goals.
Comments from Key Executives Razali Ilham, President Director and Founder of PT ASLI Satu Indonesia, and Kohei Nishiwada, Founder & CEO of Asuene APAC Pte. Ltd., underscore our shared commitment to this partnership and its potential for driving sustainability in Indonesia’s logistics industry.
We are enthusiastic about collaborating with ASUENE as a reliable partner in carbon accounting. ASUENE’s sophisticated capabilities for managing CO2 emissions and environmental data, combined with their expertise in decarbonization, empower us to visualize and reduce our emissions effectively. This collaboration supports our decarbonization objectives and contributes to Indonesia’s overarching environmental goals.
Kohei Nishiwada, Founder & CEO of Asuene APAC Pte. Ltd.
We are thrilled that ASLI Satu has adopted ASUENE, which is taking a significant step toward decarbonization in Indonesia’s logistics industry. This partnership represents a transformative move to address the sector’s challenges and drive industry-wide change. Asuene remains fully committed to supporting Indonesia’s journey toward achieving net zero.
About ASLI Satu Indonesia
- Company Name: PT ASLI Satu Indonesia
- Representative: Razali Ilham, Founder & President Director
- Headquarters: Noble House, Jl. DR. Ide Anak Agung Gde Agung Jl. Mega Kuningan Barat, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Website: https://www.asli-group.com
by | Dec 23, 2024 | Business
Karaoke Manekineko delighted attendees at Comic Fiesta 2024 with exclusive promotions, interactive activities, and free membership offers, creating a memorable experience for pop culture enthusiasts. 
Karaoke Manekineko is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of our booth at Comic Fiesta 2024! Held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, this year’s event brought together thousands of pop culture enthusiasts, and we were delighted to be part of the excitement.
Our booth drew in a large crowd with exclusive on-site promotions, including free membership cards and exciting activities. Attendees who followed with us on social media received a special 10% discount voucher, redeemable at any of our outlets.
Adding to the fun, our lively mascot made appearances throughout the event, drawing smiles and photo opportunities from attendees of all ages. Fans participated in interactive activities and social media challenges, sharing their experiences and creating a buzz around our booth.
By the end of the event, more than hundreds of visitors had joined our membership program, and our social media channels saw a significant boost in engagement and followers. This response underscores the growing popularity of karaoke as a fun and inclusive entertainment choice.
Karaoke Manekineko is committed to bringing joy and unforgettable memories to our customers. We look forward to welcoming new members and invite everyone to visit our outlets across Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements and promotions by following us on social media. See you soon for another round of karaoke fun!
Banwa Private Island, a premier luxury retreat located in the pristine waters of the Sulu Sea in Palawan, Philippines, is proud to announce that 63 of its front-line staff have been certified under the Philippines Department of Tourism’s award-winning Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) program.
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