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67% of Filipinos still don’t report scams to authorities — GASA study

A new study by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), titled “The State of Scams in the Philippines 2024,” showed the need to encourage the public to report scams, as many Filipinos still hesitate to report incidents to authorities.

GASA, a pioneering nonprofit organization dedicated to combating scams worldwide, conducted a survey of 1,000 Filipino respondents.

The results showed that 67% of Filipinos did not report scams to law enforcement, while only 31% did.

The survey highlighted the top reasons for not reporting scam incidents: the complexity of the reporting process, a belief that reporting would not make a difference, and uncertainty about whom to report the scam to.

Respondents also cited other reasons for not reporting scams, including fear of not being believed, not considering the incident important enough to report, and being afraid to report it.

The study also indicated that local police departments were the most common choice for scam reporting, followed by the National Police Agency, anti-scam apps or websites, and family members or friends.

On the other hand, data from the GASA report could serve as a foundation for initiatives aimed at encouraging the public to report online scam encounters.

This information could also support the government and advocacy groups in crafting campaigns that raise public awareness and foster a greater willingness to report scams.

Scam data

Out of all the respondents who took part in the State of Scam Survey, 73% expressed confidence in spotting scams — an increase of five percent from 2023 (only five percent admitted they were not [very] confident in identifying scams).

Meanwhile, 67% of Filipinos encounter scams at least once a month, an eight percent rise from last year.

Nearly half (49%) reported facing more scams over the past 12 months, a five percent increase compared to 2023.

Notably, 76% of scams were completed within 24 hours of initial contact, with 31% happening in mere minutes. A smaller four percent of respondents said their scams dragged on for over a year.

Additionally, 67% realized on their own that they had been scammed.

The study also showed that many Filipinos fall victim to scams by acting hastily when drawn to attractive offers, while the promise of rewards lures in others.

In response to the question, “What steps do you take to check if an offer is real or a scam?” many Filipinos said they check reviews on other websites. They then checked reviews on the same page and applied the rule: “If it seems too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.”

Scam channels

In the study, most respondents reported that text messages or Short Message Service (SMS) are the primary delivery method for scams, with a 10% increase from the 2023 report. This was followed by scams on social media sites and instant messaging applications.

Facebook and Gmail, meanwhile, are the most exploited platforms by scammers, while Telegram, WhatsApp, and TikTok round out the top five platforms where people encounter scams.

Trust on the internet has also sharply declined. While 79% of respondents say they now have less confidence in online platforms, just five percent expressed little to no loss of trust due to scams.

Most respondents know that scammers can use Artificial Intelligence (AI) against them, particularly through AI-generated text and images, while more complex voice and video are less widely recognized.

Furthermore, shopping websites are the most common source of scams in the Philippines, followed by investment scams, identity theft, and advance fee scams. Digital wallets remain the dominant payment method used in these scams.

The report also included various testimonials from scam victims, highlighting their experiences.

Some of these testimonials are:

“I was scammed on a website that I thought would make my money grow, but at first I was able to cash out but when I reinvested, it turned out that I could (not) cash out because the requested amount was getting bigger and bigger and that’s when I realized that I was scammed,” one respondent shared.

Another respondent recounted, “My friend on Facebook asked for money to support a charity for persons with disability (PWDs). I thought it was for a charity and (contributed), but I later found out that he was just collecting money for personal needs.”

 

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Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) makes grand return to the Philippines after 4-year hiatus

The prestigious Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) is finally making its grand return to the Philippines after a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Set to honor and celebrate the trailblazing entrepreneurs and enterprises from the Philippines, the event will take place on Dec. 11, 2024 at Hilton Manila.

Organized annually by the regional NGO Enterprise Asia across 16 markets, the APEA has established itself as Asia’s largest award networking platform. It boasts an elite group of past recipients from the Philippines comprising Jollibee Foods Corp., Megaworld Corp., Mercury Drug Corp., Robinsons Land Corp., SM Investment Corp., and more. The Awards has also recognized outstanding businesses across the region, including Hong Leong Group Singapore, India’s Bajaj Auto Ltd., Indonesia’s PT MNC Asia Holding Tbk, Malaysia’s Top Glove Corporation Bhd., Thailand’s The Mall Group, and Vietnam’s TTC Group.

Themed “Celebrating Inclusive Entrepreneurship,” this year’s Awards aims to honor and celebrate visionary business leaders and enterprises whose initiatives and strategies have actively contributed to the realization of an inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem in the Philippines. The APEA will feature four categories: Master Entrepreneur, Inspirational Brand, Fast Enterprise, and Corporate Excellence.

Nominations are now open! Businesses and entrepreneurs interested in participating are encouraged to submit their nominations through the official APEA Philippines website at https://apea.asia/philippines/nomination-ph/. This prestigious event offers an exceptional opportunity for organizations to gain recognition for their excellence, innovation, and dedication.

For further information about the APEA 2024 Philippines, please contact marketing@enterpriseasia.org.

Seize this unparalleled opportunity to showcase your achievements and gain the recognition you deserve. Nominate now and let your success shine!

 

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PAGASA monitoring two tropical cyclones outside PAR amid Typhoon Nika

Source: PAGASA

As Typhoon Nika affects large parts of Luzon, the state weather bureau is also monitoring two tropical cyclones outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), with one expected to enter within the week. 

In a press briefing of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Monday morning, the tropical cyclone closest to the PAR has intensified into a Tropical Depression from a Low Pressure Area. 

It has maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h near the center, with gusts of up to 55 km/h. The tropical cyclone is currently located 1,685 km east of Eastern Visayas (11.4°N, 141.2°E) and is moving west northwestward at a speed of 35 km/h.  

According to PAGASA, the tropical cyclone is expected to approach the eastern side of Visayas and Luzon before recurving towards the Taiwan-Japan area. 

“Itong tropical depression ay may posibilidad na pumasok sa ating Philippine Area of Responsibility ngayong linggo [This tropical depression has the possibility of entering our Philippine Area of Responsibility this week],” Aldczar D. Aurelio, PAGASA’s weather specialist said in press briefing.  

Mr. Aurelio also said that if the tropical depression enters the PAR, it will be named ‘Ofel.’ 

Another tropical cyclone being monitored by PAGASA is Tropical Storm Manyi (international name), located 3,555 km east of Central Luzon (15.2°N, 154.8°E) and moving slowly eastward. It is projected to generally move westward, towards the Visayas and Southern Luzon. 

Manyi has a maximum sustained winds of 85 km/h near the center, with gusts of up to 105 km/h. 

“Sa ngayon malabong pumasok (ito) sa ating Philippine Area of Responsibility [As of now, it is unlikely to enter our Philippine Area of Responsibility],” Mr. Aurelio said.  

Meanwhile, in an advisory issued by PAGASA on Monday at 11 a.m., Typhoon Nika made landfall over Disalag, Aurora, and is now traversing Northern Luzon. It is expected to emerge over the sea west of Ilocos Sur by Monday afternoon or evening.  

Nika will then move west northwestward over the West Philippine Sea and is forecast to exit the PAR by Tuesday morning or afternoon. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

China opposes new Philippine maritime law, vows to protect South China Sea ‘sovereignty’

US NAVY/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS/FILE PHOTO

BEIJING – China rejected Philippine maritime claims on Sunday, saying new legislation “severely infringes on” Beijing’s territorial sovereignty and rights in the South China Sea, and vowing to protect its own interests.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marco Jr signed two laws on Friday to define the country’s maritime entitlements and set designated sea lanes and air routes to reinforce sovereignty.

“China firmly opposes this and will continue to take all necessary measures in accordance with the law to resolutely defend China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests,” the foreign ministry said.

Beijing claims sovereignty over nearly all of the South China Sea, including areas claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. China rejects a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague that its sweeping claims were not supported by international law.

The United States, a Philippine ally, backs the court’s ruling in the case, which was brought by Manila.

The Chinese ministry’s statement on Sunday defined a baseline of “territorial waters” around the Scarborough Shoal, which China claims as its territory and calls Huangyan Island. The shoal is a major point of contention over sovereignty and fishing rights.

China has enacted domestic laws covering the South China Sea, such as a coast guard law in 2021 that allows it to detain foreigners suspected of trespassing.

With an armada of coast guard ships to assert its claims, Beijing routinely accuses vessels of trespassing in areas of the South China Sea that fall inside the exclusive economic zones of its neighbours, and has clashed repeatedly with the Philippines in the past year.

China’s coast guard issued a statement on Sunday saying the Philippines has frequently sent military and police warships and aircraft to “intrude” into the waters and airspace near the Scarborough Shoal. It accused Manila of instigating “illegal fishing” in the area. — Reuters

DigiPlus, BingoPlus Foundation give P37-M aid to families of Typhoon Kristine casualties in largest relief effort to date

First Lady Lisa Araneta-Marcos, alongside DigiPlus Interactive Chairman Eusebio Tanco and DSWD Undersecretary Pinky Romualdez, personally handover financial aid to families affected by Typhoon Kristine in Batangas. This forms part of the P37 million pledged by DigiPlus Interactive in support, especially for the recovery of bereaved families of 148 casualties nationwide.

In response to the devastating impact of Typhoon Kristine, BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive, formally distributed P37 million in financial aid to families affected by Typhoon Kristine. In the wake of 148 confirmed casualties nationwide, at least P250,000 was committed to each bereaved family, as a symbol of compassion and support for their journey to recovery. The initiative started with 39 bereaved families during a turnover ceremony on Nov. 10, at Talisay New Municipal Grounds in Batangas and will continue in several parts of the country. This pledge will continue to support affected families in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, Department of Social Welfare and Development Undersecretary Pinky Romualdez and DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco were joined by Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas, Batangas Vice-Governor Mark Leviste, Talisay Mayor Nestor Natanauan, Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez, BingoPlus Foundation COO Celeste Jovenir and local leaders and community members to personally hand over the financial aid. The event highlighted the Foundation’s mission to multiply the good by extending meaningful support to Filipinos in their time of greatest need.

Typhoon Kristine, one of the year’s most devastating storms, left a trail of destruction across South Luzon, with severe flooding and landslides resulting in significant loss of life and damage to property. Talisay, particularly impacted by landslides in Batangas, is one of the focus areas of the Foundation’s relief efforts as the entire province was declared in a state of calamity.

“The BingoPlus Foundation exists to provide more than financial aid; it is about creating hope, resilience, and real change,” said DigiPlus Interactive Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “The work of the BingoPlus Foundation is a true reflection of our belief in giving back without holding back, of reaching out to lift up those in need, and of multiplying the good in every way possible.”

With a mission to “multiply the good” in the heart of communities, BingoPlus Foundation joins hands with the DSWD in delivering financial aid and livelihood assistance to families affected by Typhoon Kristine, starting with nearly 40 families bereaved due to a landslide in Talisay, Batangas.

The provision of financial assistance builds on BingoPlus Foundation’s prior support initiatives for Typhoon Kristine victims. In collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s National Resource Operations Center (DSWD NROC), the Foundation provided cavans of rice, benefiting at least 750 families, and mobilized volunteers to help repack and distribute critical supplies for affected provinces.

Together with ABS-CBN Foundation’s Sagip Kapamilya, BingoPlus Foundation also extended support to 1,000 families impacted by Typhoon Kristine in Isabela, Aurora, Pangasinan and Quezon. These immediate actions underscore the Foundation’s dedication to its resilience pillar, showcasing its commitment to making a difference when communities need it most.

In partnership with the National Resource Operations Center of the DSWD and ABS-CBN Sagip Kapamilya, BingoPlus Foundation provides essential relief to families affected by Typhoon Kristine in Isabela, Aurora, Camarines Norte and other provinces.

“The BingoPlus Foundation stands by our communities not only with aid but with resilience, unity, and hope,” said Mr. Tanco. “In moments like these, our commitment to making a difference is stronger than ever.”

Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over P100 million across projects nationwide, addressing urgent community needs through healthcare, livelihood programs, and educational grants. Through partnerships with local and national organizations, the Foundation has established PLUS Centers in Negros, Cebu, and General Santos, creating resource hubs designed to empower communities by offering critical resources such as health programs, livelihood support, and skills training. Each center is a lasting symbol of the Foundation’s commitment to sustainable community development.

 

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Japan PM battles for survival in parliament vote as Trump looms large

JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER SHIGERU ISHIBA — REUTERS FILE PHOTO

TOKYO, Nov 11 (Reuters) – Japanese lawmakers decide on Monday whether Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba remains the country’s leader after his scandal-tarnished coalition lost its parliamentary majority in a lower house election late last month.

Mr. Ishiba, who called the snap poll after coming into office on Oct. 1, is expected to prevail as his Liberal Democratic Party and coalition partner Komeito won the biggest block of seats in the election, while losing the majority held since 2012.

Even so, Mr. Ishiba then faces the prospect of running a fragile minority government as protectionist Donald Trump regains control in Japan’s main ally the U.S., tensions rise with rivals China and North Korea, and public pressure mounts at home to tackle a cost of living crunch.

The small opposition Democratic Party for the People has emerged as a kingmaker after the election, declining to enter a formal coalition with the LDP but saying it may offer support on a policy-by-policy basis.

In a sign of the challenges Mr. Ishiba may face in pushing through his policy agenda, DPP chief Yuichiro Tamaki told reporters on Friday that party members would not vote for Ishiba at Monday’s special parliamentary session.

“Until now the LDP and Komeito have been able to push their policies through and they are no longer able to do that, they have to listen to the opposition parties,” he said.

Mr. Tamaki, though, faces his own battles, saying on Monday he would consult with his party over whether to remain its leader after admitting to an extra-marital affair first revealed in a tabloid magazine.

Former Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, the head of the opposition Constitutional Democratic Party, the biggest party after the LDP, is also expected to be among the candidates put forward as premier.

If, as expected, no candidate wins a majority initially, a runoff between the top two contenders will determine the winner. Such a runoff has not been held in 30 years, underlining the fragility of Japan’s leadership.

 

CHALLENGES AHEAD

Japan will hold elections next year for the less-powerful upper house, where the ruling coalition’s slim majority could also be at risk if Mr. Ishiba cannot revive public trust in his administration, which has been roiled by a scandal over unrecorded donations to lawmakers.

The most imminent challenge he faces is compiling a supplementary budget for the fiscal year through March, under pressure from voters and opposition parties to raise spending on welfare and measures to offset rising prices.

Mr. Ishiba also has a slate of international engagements, including a summit of the Group of 20 big economies in Brazil Nov. 18 and 19. He is trying to arrange a stopover in the United States around the G20 summit to meet Trump.

Some Japanese officials fear that Trump might again hit Tokyo with protectionist trade measures and revive demands for it to pay more toward the cost of stationing U.S. forces in the country.

These issues were largely smoothed over in Trump’s first term, from 2017 to 2021, by the close ties between the president and Japan’s then-premier, Shinzo Abe – a bond Mr. Ishiba seems keen to re-establish. – Reuters

Trump seeks fast appointments; Elon Musk makes endorsement for Senate leadership

GAGE SKIDMORE-WIKIPEDIA

Businessman Elon Musk, an ally of President-elect Donald Trump, endorsed Republican Senator Rick Scott for U.S. Senate majority leader on Sunday as Trump pushed candidates for the influential post to help him make changes quickly after his party won control of the chamber.

Republicans are expected to hold at least 52 seats in the 100-member Senate after capturing three previously held by Democrats in West Virginia, Ohio and Montana in last Tuesday’s election.

Current Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who has led his party in the chamber since 2007, is not seeking election to the post.

“Rick Scott for Senate Majority Leader!” Mr. Musk, a tech billionaire who has emerged as a major backer of Trump in recent months, wrote in a social media post on Sunday.

Mr. Trump has not yet endorsed anyone in race for majority leader.

Mr. Musk is the world’s wealthiest person. Mr. Scott, who represents Florida in the Senate, is a former healthcare executive and the wealthiest sitting senator.

In an interview on Fox News on Sunday, Mr. Scott said the Senate needs to implement real change.

“We can’t keep doing what we’re doing,” Mr. Scott said. “That’s what Donald Trump got elected to do, to be the change.”

In a tweet on Sunday, Mr. Trump said anyone seeking to be Senate majority leader must agree not to stand in the way of temporary presidential appointments being made when the Senate is not in session.

During Senate sessions, senators exercising their constitutional power to provide its “advice and consent” hold hearings and confirmation votes for presidential appointees such as Cabinet heads of massive government agencies including the Defense Department and Department of Health and Human Services.

Scott responded on X that he agreed with Mr. Trump’s demand, which would enable the incoming president to quickly fill posts, even if only temporarily. Two other Republican senators vying to lead the body – John Thune and John Cornyn – later posted their support for Mr. Trump’s push to quickly fill appointments.

Mr. Trump campaigned on promises, among other things, to deport immigrants who are in the United States illegally, cut taxes, impose tariffs on international trading partners and loosen fiscal policy.

Mr. Scott has the backing of several hard-right Republican senators, but it remains whether he can bring Republican moderates to his side.

Senate Republican leadership elections are scheduled for Wednesday, shortly after the chamber returns to work following a recess for the Nov. 5 elections.

The outcome of two Senate races – in Pennsylvania and Arizona – has not yet been called by Edison Research.

 

HOUSE CONTROL STILL UNCLEAR

Control of the U.S. House of Representatives has not yet been decided. Republicans already have won 214 seats, according to Edison, just shy of the 218 needed to retain their current majority.

If Republicans lead both chambers, it would mean that most of Trump’s agenda would have a much greater likelihood of winning congressional approval than if Democrats controlled one of them.

Partial results show Republicans have a narrow lead in nine of the remaining uncalled House races and Democrats in seven, according to a New York Times analysis, although many thousands of votes remain to be counted.

Most of the remaining House seats are in Western states, where vote tallying typically takes longer than elsewhere in the country.

Bitcoin surges to record high on Trump bets

SINGAPORE – Bitcoin soared to record high of over $81,000 on Monday as Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election along with pro-crypto candidates being voted to the Congress spurred expectations of a light-handed regulatory environment.

Bitcoin, the world’s biggest and best-known cryptocurrency, has more than doubled from the year’s low of $38,505 it hit on Jan. 23. It BTC= was last at $80,829 in Asian hours having touched a record high $81,464 earlier in the session.

Smaller cryptocurrency Ether rose above $3,200 for the first time in over three months. It was last fetching $3,192.

The cryptocurrency industry spent more than $119 million backing pro-crypto U.S. congressional candidates in the hope of getting crypto-friendly legislation passed to promote digital assets.

The effort succeeded last week, with many of the industry’s chosen candidates winning their races, potentially ushering in a Congress poised to champion crypto.

“Bitcoin’s Trump-pump is alive and well… with Republicans on the cusp of taking the house to confirm a red wave in congress, it seems the crypto crowd are betting on digital-currency deregulation,” said Matt Simpson, senior market analyst at City Index.

“But this looks like blind optimism on their part, given Trump’s attention seems to be on deportation, pardons and the general deconstruction of Biden-era policies.” – Reuters

Buddhist Bhutan to build ‘mindfulness city’ to woo investment, create jobs

STOCK PHOTO | Image by Sittichok Glomvinya from Pixabay

KATHMANDU – Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom that brought the world the concept of gross national happiness, is set to build a “mindfulness city” and will launch a $100 million bond issue on Monday to help start the project.

The ‘Gelephu Mindfulness City’ (GMC) will lie in a special administrative region with separate rules and laws that will aim to be an economic corridor linking South Asia to Southeast Asia, officials said.

The city will promote walking and cycling to reduce emissions, green spaces for meditation and relaxation, mindfulness-based education, public community activities, healthcare and wellness centers, and eco-tourism, they said.

GMC will be spread over an area of more than 2,500 sq km (965 sq miles) on the border with giant neighbor India and offer space to businesses in finance, tourism, green energy, technology, healthcare, agriculture, aviation, logistics, education and spirituality.

The 10-year GMC ‘Nation Building Bond’ that opens on Monday will be available for subscription by non-resident Bhutanese until Dec. 17, according to the GMC website. The funds raised will be used to build initial infrastructure, for green energy and connectivity, among others, it says.

“This ambitious project will redefine the nation’s economic landscape … paving the way for a prosperous and resilient Bhutan,” said Lotay Tshering, GMC’s governor and a former prime minister.

The goal is to attract investment, develop skills and create jobs in the Buddhist-majority country known for its Gross National Happiness (GNH) index – an economic gauge that counts factors ignored by gross domestic product measures, such as recreation, emotional well-being and the environment.

A country of less than 800,000 people that is wedged between Asian giants India and China, Bhutan has been struggling to boost its $3 billion economy that is heavily reliant on aid, hydropower and tourism, and was badly hit by COVID-19 restrictions.

Employment woes, with youth unemployment touching nearly 30% in 2022, triggered an exodus of young people seeking opportunities abroad, with thousands moving to Australia alone.

 

DECADES LONG PROJECT

GMC will be built in phases and is expected to be completed in 21 years, officials said, with private partners investing in roads, bridges, an airport, houses, schools, hospitals and businesses.

Authorities expect about 150,000 people to live there in the first 7-10 years and more than one million when it is complete.

The brainchild of King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, GMC was proposed last year as a city that would encompass “conscious and sustainable businesses, inspired by Buddhist spiritual heritage” and anchored on the values of GNH.

“Mindfulness is at the core of our values-based city and aligns with the ethos and identity of our nation,” said Rabsel Dorji, a senior GMC official.

The GMC website says the project is based on Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage and culture, its stress on happiness, well-being and mindfulness, and also incorporates eco-friendly architecture in what is the world’s first carbon-negative country – one that absorbs more carbon than it produces.

India, Bhutan’s biggest economic and trade partner as well as donor, is supportive of the project and would extend its roads and railway network to the border to connect GMC, officials said.

GMC is a “smart move” but connectivity could pose a serious challenge to landlocked Bhutan, said Surya Raj Acharya, an infrastructure and urban planning expert in neighboring Nepal.

“Developing the city as a competitive production hub also depends on connectivity to global logistics,” Acharya said, adding that access to ports will depend on Indian infrastructure.

“It should also be attractive to international investors. These are factors not under Bhutan’s control,” he said. – Reuters

Ukraine’s Zelenskiy says strength must come with diplomacy to achieve peace

VOLODYMYR ZELENSKY (left), president of Ukraine, on his way to address the general debate of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly’s 78th session in New York City, Sept. 19, 2023. — UN PHOTO/MARK GARTEN

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said late on Sunday that strength and diplomacy must work together to bring the Russian war in Ukraine to an end and to ensure that such conflict does not happen again in the future.

“We understand very clearly that diplomacy has no prospects without strength,” Mr. Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address.

“But without a clear understanding of diplomatic goals, weapons alone will not do the job. That’s why strength and diplomacy must work hand in hand.”

This is the only way to secure a lasting peace and to prevent from wars such as the one Moscow has been waging against Kyiv from recurring, he added.

Mr. Zelenskiy, who has unrelentingly called for a “fair” end to the war, has lobbied the United States and its NATO allies to arm Kyiv and help force Russian President Vladimir Putin to peace, saying Ukraine is open only to “honest” diplomacy.

Ukraine has also been pleading with its allies to allow Kyiv the use of western long-range weapons to strike deep into Russian territory and undermine Moscow’s war infrastructure.

Mr. Zelenskiy’s call on Sunday for strengthening diplomatic efforts comes after former Republican President Donald Trump defeated his pro-Ukrainian Democratic candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris, in U.S. presidential election.

During his election campaign, Mr. Trump said repeatedly that he could end the war in Ukraine “in a day,” but he never said how. On Thursday, Mr. Trump spoke with Mr. Putin and advised him not to escalate the war, a source told Reuters – a call that Kyiv said it had not been informed about.

The war, which Russia started with full-scale invasion on its smaller neighbor in February 2022, has killed thousands, turned cities and villages into rubble, and displaced millions of Ukrainians. – Reuters

15th PHILSME Business Expo unlocks upliftment for Filipino SMEs

The Philippine SME Business Expo (PHILSME) is back for its 15th edition to showcase innovative business solutions for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) on Nov. 22-23, 2024, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at the SMX Convention Center Manila, Pasay City, Metro Manila.

The country’s largest business-to-business trade show for SMEs, start-up founders, and entrepreneurs returns following its successful two-day run in May.

With the theme “Unlock Upliftment: Taking on Innovation, Coalition and Excellent Client Relations for an Empowered Nation,” the trade show aims to highlight new and cutting-edge solutions and emphasize the importance of exceptional customer service to drive growth for businesses across the Philippines.

“We are honored to provide a platform where business owners can access innovative solutions, foster genuine connections, and reinforce the community in building long-lasting client relationships,” Philippine SME Business Expo CEO and Managing Director Trixie Esguerra-Abrenilla said.

Over 120 sponsors and exhibitors are expected to showcase 180 business solutions across various sectors such as finance, banking, advertising, healthcare, HR & recruitment, IT, payroll solutions, logistics, co-working spaces, franchising, telecommunications, AI solutions, Tourism, Business outsourcing solutions, Web Design services, and more.

Organized by Mediacom Solutions, Inc., the event will also feature 30 keynotes and presentations by industry leaders and experts offering valuable insights and strategies to 9,000 business owners, aiming to help them boost their marketing, revenue, and business growth plans.

The 15th PHILSME Business Expo’s sponsors include Ai-CHA Ice Cream & Tea Philippines, QNE Software Philippines, Inc., Odoo, GCash for Business, Benchmark, Bossjob, Security Bank, and more.

In partnership with leading creative consultancy Design For Tomorrow, the re:brand Initiative will also be unveiled during the expo in November at the SMX Convention Center Manila.

The creative consultancy will be donating one full premium branding service to a chosen MSME.

For the full mechanics, visit www.philsme.com/rebrand.

Register Now to Attend for FREE at https://www.philsme.com/visit-us/.

For Exhibition and Sponsorship inquiries, please contact Sunshine Sy at sunshine@philsme.com, text or call at 0968-569-8358, or visit the website at https://www.philsme.com/.

 

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Timex celebrates 170 years of simply great watchmaking

Dan Retuya (far left), Timex Senior Brand Manager; and Chissa Gomez (far right), Timex Assistant Brand Manager, together with Oldest Timex Watch Finalists (L-R), Antonio Abenir, Chelo Trapaga, Joaquin Toledo, Jay Tauyan, Matt Gahol and Stephanie Goze

Timex, a pioneer in the watchmaking industry, marked its 170th anniversary with a grand event, A Journey in Time, honoring its rich heritage, celebrating its current success, and setting the stage for a promising future. This iconic American brand, which has graced the wrists of millions across the world, used the occasion to reflect on its illustrious past while also unveiling exciting innovations that solidify its place as a True American Icon.

Longevity and Craftsmanship

Timex proudly showcased its long-standing history through key milestones that highlighted its journey from 1854 to 2024. The brand, renowned for its durability and timeless design, shared its legacy of watchmaking expertise, underscoring the craftsmanship and precision that have driven its success for more than a century and a half.

Celebrating Consumer Loyalty

From L-R: Daniel Retuya, Timex Senior Brand Manager; Nico Vinuya, 1st place of Oldest Timex Watch — an original Ingersoll 1920 Waterbury Pocket Watch; and Chrissa Gomez, Timex Assistant Brand Manager of Timex

A key highlight of the event was the recognition of Timex’s loyal customers, a testament to the brand’s enduring popularity. The recently concluded “Oldest Timex Watch” contest brought a unique twist to the celebration, with the top 10 winners being honored at the event. Their treasured timepieces, each a symbol of personal history and connection, were displayed alongside stories of their owners’ journeys with their beloved watches.

“This watch has been with me for decades — through milestones, moments, and memories. It’s more than just a timepiece; it’s part of my life’s story,” shared the winner of the oldest Timex watch, who took home the grand prize.

Innovative Products Marking 170 Years

Innovation and design have always been at the heart of Timex’s evolution. To commemorate its 170th anniversary, the brand unveiled a new lineup of iconic watches and exciting collaborations. The Fall/Winter 2024 collection features several standout pieces, including:

  • Marlin — Marlin is 1960s cool. It delivers substance and style in equal measure, with unwavering swagger.
  • The Waterbury — The Waterbury is the quintessential expression of Timex watchmaking, combining classic timepieces with American sensibility while putting value — a fundamental part of any Timex watch — at its heart. This franchise balances Timex’s rich past with its pioneering spirit, always respecting what has come before while looking boldly to the future.
  • Expedition — The Expedition collection offers enthusiasts watches that meet their love of exploration and the outdoors. Combining a casual outdoor/military aesthetic that fits a rugged lifestyle, high-quality components that are good for the environment, and performance features that are built for the long haul, this collection can withstand the elements adventure after adventure.
  • Deepwater — Merging resilience and elegance with crucial functions for underwater pursuits, our Deepwater Reef 200 is expertly engineered to venture deeper.
  • Q Timex — When the quartz crisis hit the watchmaking world in the ’70s, Timex leveraged this upheaval to embrace this technological change and create a full range of quartz watches. Born of a great pivot, this collection showcases Timex’s flexibility and agility, highlighting its ability to turn crisis to triumph. Today’s Timex Q collection started with the launch of the much-loved 1979 reissue, soon followed by several new colorways, design refreshes, updates and additional reissues within the original Q line.
  • Cavatina — In 1959, Timex launched its first collection designed exclusively for women, marking a pivotal moment that transformed watches from cherished heirlooms to must-have fashion accessories. Now, we’re revisiting this iconic era, blending the nostalgia of our past with the style of today with our newly redesigned Cavatina.
  • Weekender — Slipping on a Timex Weekender can make any day feel like a Saturday. We’re bringing a fresh burst of energy to this beloved timepiece with elevated details, like a sleek new case and crown design and a fun assortment of fabric and leather straps that keep things comfortable, casual, and cool.

Timex has long collaborated with innovative businesses, designers, and personalities to produce one-of-a-kind timepieces that celebrate innovation and style while reaching out to new audiences.

  • Timex x Fortnite — Following their successful collaboration on the Fortnite Creative Mode experience “Race Against TimeX,” Timex and Fortnite are teaming up once again to unveil the first of several Timex x Fortnite product collections.
  • Timex x Jacquie Aiche — Bring power to the present moment with the Timex x Jacquie Aiche collection, designed to make your spirit shine. Throughout this collection, we’ve reimagined our timeless Timex Legacy through the ethereal lens of fine jewelry designer Jacquie Aiche.
  • Timex x Peanuts — Since 1950, Snoopy and the rest of Charles Schulz’s iconic Peanuts characters have graced newspaper pages across the nation. And for almost as long, the gang has teamed up with Timex for special-edition watches, bringing a playfulness to the wrist like few brands can.
  • Timex x Ironman — Our Timex® Ironman® watches were made to keep up with you. This undisputed favorite in sport watches crosses nearly every finish line in the world. Built to be lightweight, comfortable, durable, and functional, many styles feature the iconic five-button design that gives the wearer direct access to all timers, alarms, and of course our INDIGLO® night-light.
  • Timex x UFC — Every so often in history, two legendary rebels align. They embody a shared resilience, an iconic authenticity, and a pursuit of indestructible greatness. And when these two innovative forces come together… anything is possible. The Timex UFC collection is expertly engineered for excellence, setting world-class standards in durability and ensuring precision when every second on the clock counts.

A Historic Surprise: The Return of the $1 Watch

As part of its 170th anniversary celebrations, Timex is making history once again by launching a special edition of its iconic $1 watch. Reviving a legacy of accessible timekeeping, this release honors the heritage of simply great watchmaking since 1854, tracing back to their roots as the Waterbury Clock Company. It commemorates Timex’s iconic Yankee pocket watch — their first timepiece sold at $1 and known as “the watch that made the dollar famous.” Available for just $1 (or 50 pesos), this limited-edition timepiece will be sold exclusively at Level 2 Main Mall at the SM Mall of Asia Metro Manila on Nov. 16, 2024. Only 100 customers will have the chance to own this piece of history, in what promises to be a memorable event for both longtime fans and new collectors.

“We’re launching the Timex 170th Anniversary Watch for only $1 to celebrate our rich heritage and thank our loyal customers. This limited-time offer makes it accessible for everyone to join in our milestone celebration. It’s our way of honoring the past while looking forward to the future — together,” said Paulo Santos, Timex Philippines Marketing Director.

List of Watch Entries Per Participant

Influencer Collaborations and Brand Stories

The event also featured an exciting collaboration with several well-known influencers, including travel vlogger Daniel Marsh, who shared his passion for adventure and how Timex has accompanied him on his journeys. Other influencers such as TikTok sensation Andrea So, Eya Borja, and more were in attendance, further amplifying the brand’s message of embracing life’s moments.

Looking to the Future While Embracing the Analog Life

As Timex celebrated its present and introduced its newest collection, the brand delivered a powerful message: in today’s fast-paced digital world, it’s important to pause and appreciate the simple, tangible moments. Timex invites everyone to slow down, rediscover the beauty of the analog life, and make time yours.

 

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