Digital tools that offer remote patient monitoring can help further preventive healthcare in the Philippines, according to Einstein C. Rojas, a board member of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations. The implementation of electronic medical records, meanwhile, can go a long way towards improving the patient’s journey, he said.
The groundbreaking ceremony, led by SPI’s leaders, marks a new step forward for the company in the real estate industry. From L-R: Shang Properties, Inc. Director for Marketing Jayme Uy; Executive Vice-President for Operations Andrew den Oudsten; Senior Project Director Clarence Tan; Executive Director Wolfgang Krueger; Executive Vice-President for Commercial Maria Rochelle S. Diaz; Chief Operating Officer Atty. Karlo Marco P. Estavillo; and Sr. Director for Group Sales Rose Morales
Shang Properties, Inc. (SPI) proudly announces the groundbreaking of Shang Summit, a trailblazing residential project set to redefine the Metro Manila skyline. Located in the quiet enclave of South Triangle, Shang Summit is SPI’s first residential project in Quezon City. It will offer a new standard for luxury living that resonates with the market’s diverse lifestyles and needs. Shang Summit is designed to cater to a wide demographic with a unique blend of elegance and practicality.
Since 1987, Shang Properties has established a reputation for excellence in property development. With a vision of being a leader in its field, SPI has consistently delivered high-rise condominium projects in prime locations, collaborating with renowned architects, designers, and artisans. Shang Summit reflects this legacy of excellence and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the project is thoughtfully crafted and flawlessly executed.
“At Shang Properties, we are true to the brand promise of creating extraordinary living spaces,” said Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director of SPI. “Through Shang Summit, SPI reaffirms its commitment to redefining luxury living in the Metro by promising its residents an unmatched living experience and a new way to thrive in a dynamic and sophisticated environment.”
Similar to all the other developments within the portfolio, Shang Summit will be managed by the SPI Property Management team upon turnover, ensuring that the exceptional quality of living — synonymous with SPI’s developments — is meticulously maintained for its residents. “There’s something for everyone. Of course, there’s also the grand promise that when we turn over the unit, we want people to live there stress-free. We have our own property management team that caters to them.” assured Maria Rochelle S. Diaz, Shang Properties Executive Vice-President for Commercial.
A towering statement of elegance
Immerse yourself in the relaxed luxury of Shang Summit’s beautifully appointed units.
Shang Summit will be an 80-storey haven of tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle, yet with convenient access to everything one desires. Its prime location offers residents a rare balance of privacy and convenience within Quezon City. As a self-contained city, it seamlessly integrates diverse elements into a cohesive living experience. The city is a melting pot of commercial districts, prime educational institutions, government offices, and lifestyle offerings, ensuring that residents are never far from the fun and action.
Beyond its ideal location, the development is a creative collaboration between SPI and renowned architects and designers P&T Group, FM Architettura and CASAS + Architects, Inc. With its East and West towers, Shang Summit will grace the Quezon City skyline as it rises in the city.
The East Tower, which will be the first to rise this 2024, will offer 1,020 elegantly appointed residential units with breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the cityscape. It will feature a variety of exquisitely designed spaces, each meticulously crafted to blend classic and modern styles with the finest materials.
Shang Summit’s studio unit, spanning 37 to 39 square meters (sq.m.), will provide an intimate yet spacious living experience with its large window frames that showcase spectacular city views and ample natural light.
For those seeking additional room, the one-bedroom units (51 to 70 sq.m.) feature expansive living room configurations that seamlessly integrate open kitchens, dining areas, and outdoor balconies. The two-bedroom residences (88 to 125 sq.m.) boast private balconies, luxurious master suites, and ample wardrobe space.
The pinnacle of Shang Summit’s offerings, the three-bedroom units, offers 160 sq.m. of space and provides a serene retreat with breathtaking views from every angle, blending luxury with tranquility in the heart of the city.
Complementing its sophisticated living experience is the array of exquisite amenities that reflect the Shang Properties’ hallmark of opulence. Residents will enjoy world-class indoor and outdoor facilities, including co-working lounges, extensive play areas for children of all ages — from toddlers to teenagers, and a sophisticated lounge area for socializing.
The development will also feature the Shang Summit Gallery, which offers elegant spaces for relaxation and social gatherings, while The Alcove provides quiet, serene environments ideal for work or study. Additionally, a tropical pool with an expansive alfresco deck and a state-of-the-art fitness center by TechnoGym will immerse residents in an elevated concept of relaxed luxury living.
An heirloom for generations
Shang Summit aspires to be more than just a place to live; it envisions itself as an heirloom to be cherished for future generations. With its exceptional design, first-class amenities, and prime location, the development offers a lifestyle that is both luxurious and relaxed.
Residents will experience a beautiful oasis of unparalleled amenities at their doorstep, a signature of Shang Properties flagship residences, designed for the whole family.
“Shang Properties takes pride in creating residences that are not just beautiful but also timeless,” said Krueger. “Shang Summit is a testament to this vision. It is a space that will be a source of pride and joy for future generations.”
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Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, Globe Vice President for Marketing Communications, delivers her message at the G DAY Media Conference held last Sept. 12.
Download the GlobeOne app, join Rewards, and transact online to earn points and enjoy surprises
Get ready, Globe customers! This September, Globe is turning up the excitement with the grand return of G Day, our biggest and most rewarding celebration yet. Globe is not just saying thank you – we are showing it in a huge way with new offers, exclusive rewards, and innovative experiences.
Jason Dhakal, one of the featured artists in the upcoming G Fest Luzon Leg, serenades guests at the G DAY Media Conference.
“Our G Day celebration this month, anchored on Globe’s iconic 0917 prefix, honors our loyal customers with special treats and surprises, a gesture of our continuing commitment to serve them in uplifting ways,” said Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Our goal is to make it a G Day every day for Filipinos– to create wonderful experiences that empower them with choices, help them find the courage to overcome challenges, and discover new ways to live the best life with their loved ones.”
In celebrating our millions of beloved customers across the country, the GlobeOne app serves as the gateway to unlocking rewards and rewarding experiences, enabling customers in the pursuit of their passions, while also giving them a platform to engage in causes that create positive social impact,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.
Peter Ramirez, Globe G DAY Lead, gives an overview of what Globe customers can expect this G DAY 2024 and how to join Globe’s All-New Rewards Program at the 2024 G DAY Media Conference.
The whole month of September promises to bring fun, delight and purpose through the many programs and activities lined up by Globe for its customers.
All-New Rewards: More ways to earn rewards points, new lifestyle partners, deals and games with exciting prizes, exclusive in the GlobeOne App.
G Raffle Rush: Convert Rewards points into raffle entries for the chance to win a condominium unit, electric vehicles, travel packages, and shopping sprees.
G Fair: An event created for Filipino-owned SMEs to showcase their products with the bigger Globe customer base, powered by Globe’s digital business platforms.
G Fest: A series of events in Manila, Iloilo and Davao celebrating music and the creativity of the Filipino youth in expressing their passions and connecting with their communities through digital platforms. G Fest will feature renowned local artists and provide opportunities for young people to hone and showcase their skills.
G-Gantic Goals: With just 1 Rewards point, customers can contribute to a nationwide cause – donating 100,000 Rewards points in total will provide 917 families from different regions of the country with grocery packs and cinema block screenings for a family movie bonding weekend in partnership with the Hapag Movement.
To participate in the G Day festivities and unlock these exclusive rewards and experiences, customers are encouraged to download the GlobeOne app, add their Globe accounts, and join the All-New Rewards program. To start earning rewards points, they must use the GlobeOne app for transactions, including payments and load top-ups.
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Kindred Health, a women’s healthcare platform, opened on September 10 its second brick-and-mortar clinic in Ayala Malls Vertis North.
The Quezon City mall clinic offers obstetrician-gynecology services, and has one room each for examination, minor surgery, and wellness. It also has three consult rooms.
Other services include immunizations and health packages, plus consultations with other specializations such as internal medicine and nutrition.
“We’ve learned a lot from having our first clinic, and patient experience is our number one priority. We’ll even be offering new procedures that patients have requested, like 3D and 4D ultrasounds,” said Jessica de Mesa-Lim, Kindred’s co-founder and CEO, in a press statement sent on September 13.
“The majority of our patients are from Quezon City, so it’s only natural for us to put up our second branch here,” company COO Charmaine Isabel Lim also said.
“We kicked things off with the Kindred Karavan, also here in Vertis North, to give our patients a taste of the Kindred experience,” she said in the same press statement.
The Kindred Karavan is a mobile outpost of the bigger clinic. It will be at 3 Torre Lorenzo in Taft until the 19th, before making its way to The Corner House in San Juan from September 20-22.
Patients can still book consultations and procedures on both Kindred’s website and mobile app.
“We promise continuity of care so that our patients don’t feel any gaps in their care plans,” Ms. de Mesa-Lim said.
The company, she added, will “keep bridging the online to offline space.” – Patricia B. Mirasol
Canon launches its newest cameras - EOS R5 Mark II and EOS R1. | photo by Almira Louise S. Martinez, BusinessWorld
by Almira Louise S. Martinez, Reporter
Too much reliance on generative artificial intelligence (AI) lessens the creativity involved in producing an output, a global brand said.
“It takes away the effort of your craft if you rely too much on AI,” Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc. Product Manager Jv Ruanto said at a product launch event on Thursday.
He added that the artistic process of generating an output that did not use AI adds more pride to the artists.
“For you to be really proud of your work, it matters if it comes from you 100%.”
Creatives, like photographers, must be able to produce a good output by using their skills and creativity alone, Mr. Ruanto said.
“As a photographer, it’s in your eye to know which should be in the frame and what shouldn’t be in the frame,” he said on using AI to eliminate and add elements to photos.
Kara Moreno, a cinematographer, said the skills of a photographer do not solely depend on cameras.
“Kayo ang magbibigay ng kapangyarihan doon sa camera [Users are the ones that empower cameras], it should not be the other way around.”
According to Anuj Aggarwal, president and chief executive officer of Canon Marketing (Philippines), Inc., the continuous adaption to new technology is the strength that sustains the company in the market.
With the rise of AI in the Philippines, Mr. Ruanto urged its consumers to use this innovation instead to learn and enhance their skills in photography.
“If you want to learn and then you find that the AI is a tool to help you be better, then by all means (go).”
Mober,a frontrunner in green logistics services in the Philippines, spearheaded the Philippines’ celebration of World Electric Vehicle (EV) Day on Sept. 9 when it hosted “Leading the Way in Green Logistics: A Forum on Moving Together for a Carbon-Free Philippines,” which focused on accelerating the push on the use of commercial EVs in the country.
The forum brought together government, the private sector, and key enabling organizations united with a vision to accelerate commercial EV adoption, a key step toward reducing carbon emissions in logistics, a sector widely recognized as a significant contributor to global carbon dioxide emissions.
“World EV Day is more than just a celebration — it’s a call to unite and collaborate in accelerating the adoption of commercial EVs. The transition to sustainable logistics requires the collective efforts of the government, the private sector, and consumers. At Mober, we believe that green logistics is essential to achieving a carbon-free future, and this forum is a testament to our commitment. We are proud to lead by example and inspire others to join us on the path to a cleaner, greener Philippines,” Mober CEO Dennis Ng said.
This year marks the fifth observance of World EV Day, which started in 2020 and aimed to unite companies and individuals, policy makers, and thought leaders to raise awareness and promote the shift to EVs worldwide.
The event was highlighted by a keynote address from Hon. Jesus Ferdinand “Andy” Ortega, Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure at the Department of Transportation (DoTr), who emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating the country’s EV transition.
Jesus Ferdinand “Andy” Ortega, Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure at the Department of Transportation
“We must fast-track the transition to EVs. By promoting the use of EVs and active transport, the Philippines is making strides toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with our commitments under the Paris Agreement and national development goals,” said Usec. Ortega.
In his speech, USec. Ortega reiterated the DoTr’s support for the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which promotes EV adoption to reduce dependency on fuel and address rising energy costs. He also highlighted key government initiatives, such as Executive Order No. 12, which aims to stimulate the EV market, support the transition to emerging technologies, reduce the transport system’s reliance on fossil fuels, and reduce gas emissions attributed to road transport.
The forum also featured panel discussions that tackled timely and pressing issues on the shift to commercial EVs and businesses’ efforts to achieve their sustainability targets by integrating electrified delivery services in their supply chain operations.
Moderated by Guillermo “Bill” Luz, Chairman of Liveable Cities Philippines, the first panel included USec. Ortega of the DoTr; Zion Yuson, Project Evaluation Officer III at the DoTr; Anton Mauricio, Undersecretary and General Manager of the National Development Company (NDC); Rachel Santiago-Sacro, Country Manager at Clime Capital; and Wai Chew Chia, Chief Commercial Officer at Mober. The segment focused on the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to commercial EVs.
During the panel, Mr. Mauricio emphasized the importance of investing in the overall energy ecosystem, saying, “Our role at NDC is to signal confidence in emerging industries. By strategically investing in energy storage, renewable energy, and EVs, we aim to attract more capital and drive innovation for a sustainable future.”
The panelists agreed that while the shift to commercial EVs presents challenges, such as infrastructure and cost, the opportunities to reduce emissions and improve supply chain efficiency are key factors to consider to make the space more viable for investment.
Meanwhile, the second panel brought together some of the country’s leading brands to delve into their strategies for achieving their sustainability goals through greener logistics practices. Together with Mr. Luz as the moderator, Severino De Robles, Fulfillment Business Developer at IKEA Philippines; Gerald Tulud, General Manager of Kuehne+Nagel; Anderson Martins, Head of Supply Chain and Procurement at Nestlé Philippines; and Mark Valle, Senior Supply Chain Manager at Rustan Coffee Corp. (Starbucks) joined the discussion.
Companies expressed enthusiasm for integrating more EVs into their supply chains, aligning their efforts with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The “Leading the Way in Green Logistics: A Forum on Moving Together for a Carbon-Free Philippines” was in partnership with media outlets Manila Bulletin, BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, The Manila Times, Manila Standard, and Malaya Business Insight.
Learn more about how Mober is leading the charge toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Philippines by visiting https://www.moberdelivery.com/.
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The PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024 marked a milestone with its crystal anniversary, a night where the industry’s most impactful campaigns were honored and celebrated. While McDonald’s Philippines made headlines with their “Ride the Arches” initiative, the evening was filled with standout achievements from a variety of brands that have reshaped the marketing landscape.
The “Ride the Arches” campaign transforms McDonald’s stores into cyclist-friendly hubs, inviting riders to embark on a unique journey from one golden arch to another. More than just an innovative marketing campaign, it encouraged an active lifestyle while promoting environmental awareness. A concept like this could only come from a brand who truly understands and is deeply immersed in the passions of their consumers!
McDonald’s Philippines made headlines with their “Ride the Arches” initiative.
This campaign didn’t just win hearts — it swept the awards, taking home a total of five accolades, including Gold in Marketing Communication Channel-Single Medium BTL, Gold in Customer Experience, and Bronze in Disruptive Innovation. Adding to this already impressive haul, their “Night Classroom” campaign also secured a Gold in the Corporate Sustainability and Brand Trust category.
The team behind “Ride the Arches,” composed of the seasoned Meryl Adiel Hernandez, Cathleen Denise Barrameda, Gita Manuel, Jann Caitlin Jao, and Isabel Christina Leyeza, was also awarded the Brand Team of the Year. Moreover, the Corporate Communications Manager Cathleen Denise Barrameda was rightfully honored as the Rookie Brand Builder of the Year. Thanks to their collective efforts in driving these groundbreaking campaigns which undoubtedly broke norms in brand engagement.
Beyond McDonald’s success, the event was also a testament to the power of creativity and strategic execution, showcasing how brands like Nestlé Philippines, Coca-Cola, FWD Life Insurance, and Smart Communications have leveraged their platforms to create meaningful connections with consumers.
Nestlé Philippines’ Nescafe campaign “Kape’t Bisig sa Pagbangon” was one of the shining stars of the evening, securing a Gold in the Effective Use of Marketing Channel-Integrated and in Customer Experience category. This campaign highlighted how a legacy brand can continue to innovate, connecting with a new generation of coffee lovers while staying true to its roots.
Coca-Cola’s “Coke Christmas 2023” also made a splash, with its integrated campaign that blended tradition with modernity, earning it a coveted Gold in the Customer Experience category.
FWD Life Insurance, known for its innovative approach in the financial sector, was another highlight. Their campaign “FWD: The Gamer Insurance” not only won Gold in the Effective Use of Marketing Channel-Integrated category but also set a new standard for how insurance can be marketed to resonate with younger, tech-savvy consumers. This win emphasizes the brand’s commitment to pushing the envelope in a traditionally conservative industry.
Smart Communications took home the Gold in the Effective Use of Marketing Channel-Single Medium — Out-of-Home category, showcasing their expertise in capturing the attention of on-the-go audiences. Their campaign “FIBA World Cup 2023: Smart Ball of Asia” cleverly utilized outdoor advertising to engage consumers in a way that was both impactful and memorable, reinforcing Smart’s position as a leader in innovative communications.
In the Brand Effectiveness through Corporate Sustainability and Brand Trust category, SM Supermalls emerged as one of the 2 Gold winners. SM Supermalls’ ‘Rainwater Project” campaign was praised for its innovative approach to reducing environmental impact while enhancing the shopping experience.
People’s Choice Favorite Brand and Campaign: Watson’s Philippines
Watson’s Philippines’ “Watson’s Playlist: The Feel Great Concert,” and the Bank of the Philippine Islands’ “May BPI Dito” were among the brands celebrated for their exceptional Customer Experience campaigns. These brands have mastered the art of understanding and enhancing the customer journey, creating seamless and engaging interactions that resonate deeply with consumers. Their gold winning campaigns were a testament to the importance of insight-driven strategies in building lasting brand loyalty.
The PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024 was not just a celebration of individual brand achievements but a recognition of the collective progress in the industry. With 22 golds, 8 silvers, and 8 bronzes awarded across various categories, the night was a testament to the creativity and strategic thinking that defines today’s marketing landscape.
As we look forward to the PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2025, set to return in May next year, the industry is reminded of the power of innovation and the importance of staying ahead in the game.
Congratulations to all the winners, and may these achievements continue to inspire the entire marketing community to push boundaries and create lasting, positive impacts.
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Del Monte Philippines, Inc. (DMPI), a subsidiary of Singapore-listed and PSE-listed Del Monte Pacific Limited (DMPL), announced strong financial results for the first quarter, marking a significant leap towards sustainable growth and profitability.
DMPI achieved a 13% increase in first-quarter sales to P10.2 billion, fueled by a robust 20% surge in international sales driven by strong exports of fresh and packaged pineapple. The Philippine market also rebounded impressively, with DMPI’s net profit soaring by 52% to P1.0 billion, illustrating a powerful turnaround over the same period.
The Philippine market delivered sales of P4.5 billion, reflecting a 6.5% expansion. This growth was supported by all key categories of packaged fruit, beverage, and culinary products exceeding targets and outperforming the same quarter last year. Under new sales leadership, DMPI has revitalized its brand presence with improved offtake, responding to the growing demand in modern trade and general trade/distributor operations, while successfully navigating rising food costs. Notably, e-commerce sales have more than doubled, highlighting the effectiveness of the company’s strategies.
The beverage segment is also experiencing a vibrant recovery, with back-to-back marketing campaigns across various brands. The Group kicked off the year with the energizing “Give in to Goodness” summer campaign, effectively addressing the heat wave affecting the country. The 100% Pineapple Juice line has thrived under the successful “HeartSmart” campaign, promoting its cholesterol-lowering benefits. Additionally, the introduction of the Fit ‘n Right Green Apple flavor, featuring L-Carnitine and Green Coffee Extract, is set to aid in fat burning.
In the culinary segment, Pasta Sauce is leading growth with a comprehensive program centered around birthday celebrations. The Mixed Fruit category is also thriving, driven by the popularity of the Del Monte Fiesta brand as a delightful ingredient for desserts and the Today’s brand enhancing its presence in regional festivities. This strategy has resulted in a significant 4 percentage point increase in Del Monte’s market share in Mixed Fruit to an impressive 80.3%.
Internationally, sales grew by an outstanding 20% to P5 billion, with all product categories — fresh, processed, frozen, and NFC juice — demonstrating improved performance. Export sales to EMEA and Asia have risen, with fresh sales flourishing in China, South Korea, and Japan, bolstered by a heightened volume of premium S&W Deluxe pineapple. Notably, S&W launched the Sweet 16 Pineapple Fresh Cut in all six Costco stores in East China in May 2024, while McDonald’s Hong Kong showcased the Group’s pineapple slices and fruit cocktail in their summer offerings, including the ebi burger and refreshing pineapple soda.
Luis Alejandro, DMPI President & Chief Operating Officer, commented on the impressive performance: “Our entire team at Del Monte has embraced the challenge, proactively addressing shortcomings, uncovering new opportunities, and working tirelessly to execute our turnaround plan.”
Mr. Alejandro added, “Although DMPI’s parent company DMPL faced a first-quarter loss due to its US subsidiary’s performance, the commendable improvement in margins over the previous quarter is promising. We are diligently executing our strategic priorities to enhance operational and financial performance across all businesses. The significant increase in profitability for DMPI is a strong affirmation that we are on the right track.”
Del Monte remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthen its position and drive towards a sustainable and profitable future, with optimism and determination paving the way ahead.
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TAIPEI – As tropical storm Bebinca barrels towards waters off northern Taiwan gathering strength into a possible typhoon, weather forecasters in Taipei are using a new and so far successful method to help track its path – artificial intelligence (AI).
AI-generated forecasts, some powered by software from tech giants including Nvidia, whose chips are made by Taiwan’s homegrown semiconductor champion TSMC, have so far outperformed traditional methods in predicting typhoon tracks.
In July, it was AI-based weather models, used for the first time, that helped Taiwan better predict the path and impact of Typhoon Gaemi, the strongest to strike the island in eight years that brought record-breaking rainfall.
The new technology impressed Taiwan forecasters by predicting a direct hit as early as eight days before Gaemi made landfall – handily outperforming conventional methods, which remain the mainstay of prediction planning.
“People are starting to realize AI indeed delivered some stunning performances compared to conventional models,” said Chia Hsin-sing, director at the weather service provider Taiwan Integrated Disaster Prevention of Technology Engineering Consulting Company Ltd.
Bebinca is now being tracked using the same AI tools by people including Lin Ping-yu, a forecaster at Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration (CWA), who said AI has given them a higher degree of confidence there will not be a direct hit.
“This (AI) is a good thing for us. It is like having one more useful tool to use,” said Lin.
The AI weather programs on offer include Nvidia’s FourCastNet, Google’s GraphCast and Huawei’s Pangu-Weather, as well as a deep learning-based system by European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts.
“It is a hotly watched competition. We will know soon who is winning,” said Chia.
Such AI models have also begun to be used to predict storms and hurricanes in other regions with good accuracy, according to forecasters and academics.
The AI-based software is trained using historical weather data to learn the cause and effect relationships of meteorological systems and can predict hundreds of weather variables days in advance – a process that requires only a few minutes to complete.
For all the typhoons in the Western Pacific this year up until mid-September, AI’s accuracy in predicting storm tracks over a three-day window was nearly 20% higher than that of conventional models, according to data compiled by the CWA.
Ahead of Gaemi, AI helped the administration foresee an unusual loop in its path that prolonged its impact on Taiwan and prompted them to swiftly issue a rare warning for rainfall of 1.8 meters (5.9 feet), which was later proven accurate, according to CWA’s deputy head Lu Kuo-Chen.
“(AI) boosted the confidence for forecasters to make that prediction,” Lu said, adding the early warning gave extra time for authorities to carry out preparations.
Lu is also pinning hopes on a partnership with Nvidia, which this year announced a generative AI tool called CorrDiff that aims to forecast more precise locations of typhoon landfall and provide higher resolution images inside a storm.
“We are seeing the potential,” Mr. Lu said.
For now, however, experts say the AI tools were not able to deliver quality forecasts for more detailed impact of a typhoon, such as its strength and winds, and more time is needed for the new technology to solidify its lead over more traditional ways.
“Was it just good luck?” said Chia, pointing to AI’s stellar performance on Gaemi. “We need to give AI a bit more time. It is something to look forward to.” – Reuters
SEATTLE – Boeing’s US West Coast factory workers will walk off the job after 96% voted on Thursday in favor of a strike, halting production of the plane maker’s strongest-selling jet as it wrestles with chronic output delays and mounting debt.
The workers’ first strike since 2008 will start at midnight Pacific time on Friday (0700 GMT), just weeks after new CEO Kelly Ortberg was brought on in August to restore faith in the plane maker after a door panel blew off a near-new 737 MAX jet in mid-air in January.
Roughly 30,000 workers who produce Boeing’s 737 MAX, and other jets in the Seattle and Portland areas were voting on their first full contract in 16 years.
Under complicated rules set by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), at least two-thirds of the unionized workers had to vote in favor of a strike for a stoppage to begin and the contract to be rejected.
Boeing workers voted 96% in favor of striking and 94.6% to reject the agreement.
The deal included a general wage increase of 25%, a $3,000 signing bonus and a pledge to build Boeing’s next commercial jet in the Seattle area, provided the program is launched within the four years of the contract.
Although IAM leadership recommended last Sunday that its members accept the contract, many workers had responded angrily, arguing for the originally demanded 40% pay rise and lamenting the loss of an annual bonus.
On Wednesday, Mr. Ortberg sent a letter to workers, urging them to approve the deal.
Some workers were already preparing for picket lines that day, with one union member leaving a Wednesday meeting carrying a placard under her arm that read: “On Strike Against Boeing.” – Reuters
ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT – Pope Francis left Singapore for Rome on Friday, after a demanding trip across Southeast Asia and Oceania in which he urged action on climate change, pressed for interfaith dialogue, and reinforced the Catholic Church’s presence in a region where it is a small minority.
The Singapore Airlines flight carrying the Catholic pontiff and his entourage took off around 12:25 p.m. (0425 GMT) in Singapore and is due to arrive in Rome on Friday evening, after a 12-hour flight through six time zones.
Pope Francis visited Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore over a span of 12 days. The 87-year-old pope, who in recent years has suffered bouts of ill health, appeared in good form throughout the trip, maintaining a packed schedule and headlining more than 40 events.
Highlights of the journey included a trip to a township of some 12,000 people on the edge of the Papua New Guinean jungle, in which the pope brought hundreds of kilograms of items to help support the local population, including medicines, clothing and toys for children.
The pope also celebrated a Mass in East Timor with a crowd of some 600,000 people, nearly half the country’s population of 1.3 million, in one of the largest ever turnouts as a proportion of a country’s population for a Mass during a papal visit.
East Timor, 96% Catholic, was the only Catholic majority country of the pope’s tour.
Pope Francis’ 12-day trip was the longest yet of his papacy, and among the longest in papal history. Upon landing in Rome, Francis will have clocked nearly 33,000 km (20,500 miles).
The pope, who suffers from knee and back pain, used a wheelchair throughout the trip. He kept all his scheduled appointments.
In Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation, Francis issued a joint declaration with the national grand imam calling for global climate action.
In Singapore, he urged the government in one of the world’s leading financial hubs to seek fair wages for the country’s million-plus lower-paid foreign workers.
Pope Francis has prioritized trips to places never visited by a pope, or where Catholics are a small minority. He was only the second pope to visit three of the four countries on his itinerary.
In Papua New Guinea, Francis offered a small insight into how he thinks of the task of leading the 1.4-billion-member global Catholic Church, and visiting Catholics around the world.
In a spontaneous comment to a group of young people, he made a usual request that they pray for him. And then, emphasizing his need for prayers, he added: “This job is not easy.” – Reuters
HANOI – Vietnam is considering resuming plans to develop nuclear power to ensure national energy security and to support economic growth, according to a government document reviewed by Reuters.
The Southeast Asian country, a regional industrial hub heavily reliant on coal for power generation, is also seeking to boost its cleaner energy production to meet its net zero target by 2050.
“The Ministry of Industry and Trade is to conduct research on the nuclear power development experience of other countries and make a proposal to develop nuclear power in Vietnam,” according to the document, which was dated Thursday.
The ministry did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
The document said Vietnam has a target of raising its power generation capacity by 12%-15% a year to “ensure national energy security… and support an annual economic growth of 7%.”
The nuclear power development proposal will be submitted to the Politburo, the country’s most powerful decision-making body, for review, according to the document, although no time frame was provided.
In 2009, Vietnam approved plans to develop its first two nuclear power plants, but the plans were shelved in 2016 following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan and due to budget constraints.
The proposed nuclear plants, with a combined capacity of 4 gigawatts (GW), were planned to be built by Russia’s Rosatom and Japan Atomic Power Co in the central province of Ninh Thuan.
The country has over the recent years been seeking to develop cleaner energy but its offshore wind and LNG development targets are at risk due to regulatory and pricing hurdles.
Officials said Vietnam has for years been considering resuming its nuclear power option and has discussed possible support from Russian, South Korea, Canada and others on small reactors.
Nuclear power was not mentioned in the country’s long-awaited master power development plan that was approved in May last year. The plan, known as PDP8, would raise the country’s total installed power generation capacity to over 150 GW by 2030 from over 80 GW at the end of last year.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade is now seeking opinions to update the PDP8, state media reported earlier this month.
The government office document said relevant ministries and agencies had also been told to remove hurdles facing offshore wind and gas-fired power development, without elaborating. – Reuters
Moderated by Guillermo “Bill” Luz, Chairman of Liveable Cities Philippines, the first panel included USec. Ortega of the DoTr; Zion Yuson, Project Evaluation Officer III at the DoTr; Anton Mauricio, Undersecretary and General Manager of the National Development Company (NDC); Rachel Santiago-Sacro, Country Manager at Clime Capital; and Wai Chew Chia, Chief Commercial Officer at Mober. The segment focused on the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to commercial EVs.
Meanwhile, the second panel brought together some of the country’s leading brands to delve into their strategies for achieving their sustainability goals through greener logistics practices. Together with Mr. Luz as the moderator, Severino De Robles, Fulfillment Business Developer at IKEA Philippines; Gerald Tulud, General Manager of Kuehne+Nagel; Anderson Martins, 
Learn more about how Mober is leading the charge toward a cleaner, more sustainable future for the Philippines by visiting 
The PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024 was not just a celebration of individual brand achievements but a recognition of the collective progress in the industry. With 22 golds, 8 silvers, and 8 bronzes awarded across various categories, the night was a testament to the creativity and strategic thinking that defines today’s marketing landscape.
As we look forward to the PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2025, set to return in May next year, the industry is reminded of the power of innovation and the importance of staying ahead in the game.
