23 must-have for a Barbie-themed living room design

July 29, 2023 | 12:05 am

The Barbie movie, starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken, has been embraced wholeheartedly in the Philippines. Since its release on July 19, the Barbie frenzy has taken over the country, leading to exciting collaborations with the limited edition fashion brands in the country.

Now, Wilcon Depot, the Philippines leading home improvement and trusted building partner retailer in the country, is joining on board by bringing the trendy Barbie frenzy right into your homes!

Barbiecore Living Room Ideas: What To Buy?

Ready to bring Barbie magic home? Wilcon Depot has everything you need for a fabulous Barbie-inspired makeover! From sofas to floor tiles, we’ve got a range of pink and chic items to turn your Barbie dream into reality!

1. Minimalist Sofas and Chairs

When finding the ultimate chic and cozy sofa and chairs for your Barbie core sala set, look no further than Heim and Nobizzi!

Picture this perfect combination: kickstart your living room with Heim’s Tamisha series 3-seater and 1-seater sofas – pure elegance and comfort wrapped into one! But why stop there? Elevate the style with Nobizzi’s Velvet Accent Chair, which brings a touch of princess vibes with its luxurious white-velvet fabric and gold steel materials.

2. Modern Living Room Tables

A living room just isn’t complete without the charming center table and side table to add that touch of elegance! Introducing: the Heim Lotus Center Table and the Nobizzi Art Deco Style Gold Side Table.

The Heim Lotus Center Table is an absolute eye-catcher! With its sleek metal and glass materials, this table is a masterpiece with those lotus-like designs on the sides.

The Nobizzi Art Deco Style Gold Side Table is truly irresistible with its marble table-top and stainless gold frame. It’s the epitome of luxury and style, a must-have addition to your living room setup.

3. Stylish Pendant Lights and Table Lamp

Take your Barbie game to the next level with Alphalux’s fabulous ceiling lights and table lamps!

If you want that ultimate Barbie doll house feel, pendant lights are the way to go! Check out the stunning Ned Pendant Lamp and Frank Pendant Lamp – they’ll add that much-need touch of magic to your living room. Made with a mix of metal, glass, and the iconic pink color, these ceiling lights will make your space shine like a Barbie dream! You can complete your Barbie living room with Alphalux’s chic acrylic Lure Table Lamp to add charm and style to your space.

4. Aesthetic Wall and Floor Tiles for the Living Room

Who said the Barbie theme should be limited to furniture? Let’s take it up a notch by adding some flair to your walls and floors with fabulous tiles!

For glossy walls that will make your living room sleek and shiny, check out Herberia’s Smart Glossy Decor Wall Tile, Basel’s Arriana Glossy Wall Tile, or Novabell’s Ravello Glossy Wall Tile. You can complement these wall tile decors with Saigres’s stunning floor tiles. Choose from Alarico Glossy Ceramic Floor Tile, Vallery Polished Porcelain Floor Tile, or Statuario Polished Porcelain Floor Tile that will effortlessly match your living room pieces and wall decors.

5. Velvet Throw Pillow Cases

You can’t underestimate the power of throw pillowcases in creating an iconic Barbie living room look. They may seem like small details, but they make a huge difference in adding that extra touch of style to your sofas and chairs!

And nothing screams Barbie more than velvet fabrics! Heim’s Douce Pink Throw Pillow Case And Timantti Light Brown Throw Pillow Case are spot-on choices. Their simple yet classy look effortlessly matches our earlier sofa and chair recommendations.

6. Other Barbie Living Room Design Ideas

The Barbie makeover for your sala doesn’t stop there – we’ve got more fabulous additions that will give your living room a girly and glamorous interior!

To add that final touch of elegance, consider the beige Maine carpet by Heim. Made of soft polyester fiber with an abstract design, it will not only complete the look of your living room but also create a cozy and confined ambiance.

And what’s a Barbie-themed room without flowers? Sprinkle some floral magic with a set of clear glass vases with a touch of gold by Heim or a fuschia pink artificial chie flower pot. Fresh or lovely dried flowers will add a delightful touch, making your living room bloom with Barbie charm!

Of course, comfort is key for Barbie. Install the sleek and stylish wall mount Kaze Eakon Series 2hp Split Type Aircon Inverter. It will keep your living room perfectly cool while adding a touch of modernity to the space. Barbie deserves the best, after all!

Now, are you already daydreaming about how your Barbie living room will come to life? Well, you’re in luck because Wilcon Depot is here to make it all happen! With their wide array of items available in-store and online, you can bring that doll-like sala to reality in a snap!

Bonus: Barbie-inspired Dining Table Design

While we initially focused on Barbie-themed living room tips, let’s extend the fabulous ideas to your dining area as well!

Picture this: you and your doll friends gathering around the stunning 6-seater rosegold Jean dining table by Nobizzi. Its stainless frame and marble top exude chic elegance, making your dining experience as glamorous as a Barbie dream! Whether it’s a lovely lunch or a fancy dinner, this dining table will surely become the centerpiece of your home, adding that perfect touch of sophistication to another part of your house. So, get ready to dine in style and enjoy the Barbie magic in every corner of your home!

‘C’mon Barbie, let’s go party!’

Ta-da! Your living room is now ready to become the magical stage for your very own Barbie movie! All that’s left to do is visit our online shop or head to the nearest Wilcon store to shop for these fabulous items and more! Trust me, once you’re done setting it all up, you’ll be thrilled and go, ‘ah ah ah yeah’ with the incredible outcome! So, don’t wait any longer – let the Barbie magic begin and turn your living room into a mesmerizing Barbie paradise. Happy decorating!

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McDonald’s PHL puts the spotlight on its managers as they lead the growth of the Golden Arches

July 28, 2023 | 6:45 pm

With over 40 years in the QSR industry, McDonald’s attributes its continued success and growth to its people – store managers and crew, who work to ensure the smooth operations of each McDonald’s store and deliver feel-good moments to its customers. As the QSR giant continues to open more stores this 2023, the company is gearing up to hire more Manager Trainees who will eventually lead McDonald’s growing store network.

McDonald’s Manager Trainees undergo a six-month training to learn the basics of running a restaurant. At the end of the course, eligible trainees are promoted to Shift Manager.

Driven to lead

In the recent Best Me Campaign, McDonald’s Philippines shared a touching new film featuring Cherine, who was interviewed about her experience as a Restaurant Manager Trainee. In the film, Cherine was surprised by positive and encouraging messages from her family.

Finding inspiration from her older sister – who also previously worked at McDonald’s, Cherine shares how learning about McDonald’s as an employer encouraged her to seek employment, and eventually forge her own unique path.

Cherine – who also started her journey as a part-time crew member as a working student – is now taking on greater heights with a managerial role. Leading by example, Cherine shares: “Just how my “ate” set an example for me, I know as a manager I should take care of my crew members by being an example for my team on how to serve our customers better.”

The QSR giant has shared that many Filipinos, like Cherine, seek career growth opportunities with McDonald’s Philippines. With its direct hiring practice since 1981 for all its employees, McDonald’s Philippines takes pride in being one of the country’s biggest employers in the country that provides regular employment, special benefits, and access to training and development for advancement opportunities.

More than job security, McDonald’s Philippines’ world-class training provides its people with the skills for them to succeed in the restaurant service industry, as they get to learn global systems and processes in restaurant operations. Through a robust learning and development curriculum, McDonald’s employees are able to not just learn life-long skills but grow and progress in the company.

Growing with the business

“At McDonald’s Philippines, we want our employees to grow with us. This is why we continue to cultivate an operating culture that encourages our people to learn life-long skills and pursue new challenges and responsibilities to build their capability and confidence to lead. With the world-class training that we offer our people, we hope to develop kind and hard-working leaders who are eager to learn, driving service excellence and business performance in the QSR industry,” shared Kenneth S. Yang, President and CEO of McDonald’s Philippines.

Gearing up to recruit 20,000 new employees this year, McDonald’s Philippines will be providing career opportunities in key cities with every new store set to open. Priority areas for hiring Management Trainees are Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Montalban, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Makati, Manila, Quezon City, Pampanga, Tagaytay, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Lucena, and Pasig City.

For more information, visit the McDonald’s Careers Facebook Page or McDonald’s Philippines LinkedIn to check out career opportunities with McDonald’s Philippines.

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Building permits down 1.9% in first three months

July 28, 2023 | 6:06 pm

Housing-construction-worker — PHILSTAR FILE PHOTO

Approved building permits declined by 1.9% year on year in the first quarter of the year, mainly due to lower residential constructions, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Friday.

Construction starts, measured by building permit approvals, totaled 40,210 in the first quarter, showing a decrease from 40,990 in the same period last year, PSA data showed.

This figure remains higher compared to the 8.6% decline (37,576 permits) in the fourth quarter last year.

The total value of the building permits reached P101.7 billion, representing a 5.5% increase from the same quarter last year, covering a combined area of 8.70 million square meters (sq.m).

Residential construction continued to hold the majority of approved building permits, with 27,489 permits despite a 5.2% year-on-year decline. These permits were valued at P49.80 billion, indicating a 2% decrease from the previous year, with a total floor area of 4.65 million sq.m.

By residential type, single-detached houses had the largest share of permits with 86.8% (23,849 permits), experiencing a 4.2% decline compared to the 1.9% drop seen in the same quarter last year but still higher than the 9.7% decline recorded in the October-to-December 2022 period.

Other residential projects included apartments (3,199 permits), duplexes and quadruplexes (397), and other residential projects (34), while there were 10 permits issued for condominiums.

Non-residential permits, which accounted for 21.3% of the total, grew six times year on year to 24.2% or 8,553 permits, with a total value of P44.83 billion and a cumulative floor area of 3.93 million sq.m.

The surge in non-residential permits was led by commercial buildings, increasing by 27.2% to 6,168 permits, followed by institutional buildings (1,183 permits), industrial buildings (696), and agricultural buildings (329).

Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) continued to have the highest number of constructions during the quarter with 10,272 permits, followed by Central Luzon (5,517 permits) and Central Visayas (4,594). Together, these three regions contributed more than half or 53.6% of the total construction value during the quarter.

Additionally, 50.7% of the total permits also came from these three regions.

In terms of value, Calabarzon retained its position with the highest construction value at P23.33 billion, followed by Central Luzon with P18.39 billion, and the National Capital Region with P13.07 billion.

According to the statistics agency, the average cost of construction per sq.m increased by 1.9% year on year to P10,855.46 from P10,652.50 last year. — Bernadette Therese M. Gadon

Expenses weigh on Philex Mining’s Q2 profits

July 28, 2023 | 5:27 pm

Philex Mining Corp. on Thursday reported an attributable net income of P314.56 million for the second quarter, down 55.62% from P708.85 million a year earlier, amid lower operating revenues and higher expenses.

The listed gold and copper producer said that its core net income stood at P314 million, a decrease of 52% from P657 million in the same period last year, based on its unaudited financial results.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization were at P553 million, lower than the P1.17 billion previously, it said.

The company’s operating revenues went down by 17% to P2.05 billion from P2.49 billion in the previous year.

“Operating costs and expenses for 2Q2023 at P1.701 billion was higher than the same period in 2Q2022 at P1.663 billion, despite lower tonnage milled,” the company said.

It said that higher power costs continue to increase operating costs and expenses despite lower production levels.

Philex milled a total of 1.83 million tons during the second quarter, down 2% from the 1.86 million tons in the same period last year.

“Slight improvement in gold prices continue to mitigate the negative impact of the softening copper prices when compared to the same period in 2022,” Philex said.

During the period, realized gold price rose by 6% to $1,937 per ounce while copper price dipped by 7% to $3.82 per pound.

Ore grades for gold and copper went down by 14% and 7% year on year in the second quarter, respectively.

Gold output decreased by 21% year on year to 10,300 ounces while copper output was also down by 13% to 5.64 million pounds.

Meanwhile, the company’s first-half attributable net income decreased by 47.40% to P704.14 million from P1.40 billion last year.

“Cautious optimism is still the name of the game,” said Philex President and Chief Executive Officer Eulalio B. Austin, Jr. in a media release.

“The first half of the year was challenging, no doubt, but we are still confident that, with the Silangan Project and other prospects in the pipeline, the situation would improve. We are all geared up for mining opportunities moving forward,” he said.

Philex reported a core net income of P702 million, down from P1.33 billion in the same period last year.

Prices for gold and copper during the period ending in June averaged $1,924 per ounce and $3.91 per pound, respectively.

The total production of gold dropped by 19% to 20,361 ounces while copper output also decreased by 12% to 11.173 million pounds when compared to the same period last year.

Philex said that it is in the final stage of raising the needed funding through negotiation and documentation for its Silangan copper-gold project in Surigao del Norte.

It is almost done in securing the funding of the project from debt syndication led by BDO Capital and Invesment Corp., targeting to raise a minimum of $100 million.

“This new credit facility completes the full funding requirement for the Silangan Project after the stock rights offering (SRO) last year and the capital infusion from the Company out of its cash reserves,” it said.

Philex Mining is a holding firm with a business interest in mining, energy, and hydrocarbon. It primarily engages in large-scale exploration, development, and utilization of mineral resources.

At the stock market on Thursday, Philex Mining shares dipped 0.90% to P2.97 apiece. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera

Residential property prices increase by 10.2% in first quarter

July 28, 2023 | 5:23 pm

By Keisha B. Ta-asan, Reporter

Residential property prices rose by 10.2% in the first quarter, mainly driven by higher costs of duplex housing units, single-detached/attached houses, townhouses, and condominium units, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported on Friday.

The Residential Real Estate Price Index (RREPI) increased by 10.2% year-on-year in the January to March period, BSP data showed.

This growth was faster than the 7.7% increase in the previous quarter and the 5.7% growth recorded in the same period in 2022.

The growth in property prices during this period was the fastest since the 26.6% recorded in the second quarter of 2020, at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic.

The RREPI tracks the average price changes of residential properties across different housing types and locations. This provides the central bank with insights into the property market, which is regulated due to bank exposure.

There is strong demand for horizontal projects like duplex and single detached/attached houses as the market has fully recovered from the pandemic, Joey Roi H. Bondoc, associate director for research at Colliers International Philippines, said in a phone interview.

“The residential market has already rebounded. People are now starting to buy and are now starting to invest (in housing units),” he noted.

“There was a pause back in 2020 to 2021, but what we’re seeing now is that people are starting to acquire units, both for end use and as an investment vehicle.”

He also noted that elevated prices of construction materials drove property prices upwards.

Based on BSP data, prices of duplexes and single detached/attached houses increased by 22.1% and 17%, respectively, in the January to March period.

Nationwide, prices of townhouses rose by 1.8% year-on-year in the first quarter, significantly slower than the 25.7% rise in the same period in 2022.

Condominium prices edged higher by 1.2% during the first quarter, easing from the 14.5% growth in the comparable year-ago period.

The RREPI also showed that residential property prices in the National Capital Region (NCR) slowed to 7.3% in the first quarter from 9.7% a year ago.

In areas outside NCR (AONCR), residential property prices grew by 11.4%, faster than the 5.1% increase a year prior.

Data from the central bank also showed that residential home loans in the first quarter grew by 16% year on year, with loans in NCR and AONCR increasing by 16.5% and 15.7%, respectively.

During the first quarter, 80.5% of these loans were used to purchase new single-detached/attached houses (47.8%), followed by condominium units (32.8%) and townhouses (18.9%).

The central bank also said that the average appraised value of new housing units in the Philippines stood at P73,724 per square meter (sqm) in the January to March period.

The average appraised value in NCR was P123,053 per sqm, while the average appraised value in AONCR stood at P51,459 per sqm.

According to Mr. Bondoc, demand in the residential market will continue to be strong due to the positive outlook that firms and consumers have for the economy this year.

“The economy is growing at a sustained pace. We have steady remittance inflows from overseas Filipino workers. A better environment for local employees will also lead to an increase in salaries,” he said.

“These factors will all fuel demand and are likely to continue pushing property prices up, especially in AONCR,” he added.

NG budget deficit narrows in first half

July 28, 2023 | 5:18 pm

By Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson, Reporter

The National Government’s (NG) budget gap narrowed in the first half of the year, as revenues surged and spending slowed, the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) reported on Friday.

BTr data showed that the fiscal deficit in the January-to-June period narrowed by 18.17% to P551.7 billion from P674.2 billion a year ago.

However, the budget gap fell short of its program for the period, lower by 28.49% from its P771.5-billion ceiling.

Revenues in the first six months rose by 7.68% to P1.86 trillion from P1.73 trillion in the same period a year ago.

This was also up 2.72% from the P1.81-trillion revenue program for the period.

Tax revenues grew by 7.5% to P1.66 trillion from P1.54 trillion, accounting for the bulk or 89% of the total collection as of end-June. This was a tad lower than its P1.68-trillion program.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) collected P1.22 trillion, up by 7.65% from P1.13 trillion a year ago. However, this was 2.57% lower than the agency’s P1.25-trillion program for the period.

Collections from the Bureau of Customs (BoC) rose by 9.26% to P433.4 billion from P396.7 billion.

“The agency’s year-to-date performance was 3.04% or P12.8 billion better compared to the P420.7 billion first half target, driven by its anti-smuggling operations,” the BTr added.

Nontax revenues went up by 9.13% to P203.1 billion from P186.2 billion, exceeding its P130.1 billion program by 56.16%.

Revenues from other offices jumped by 34.26% to P110.2 billion, surpassing its P81.7 billion target by 34.82%.

This helped offset the 10.68% decline in BTr income to P93 billion. However, the BTr stated that its revenues in the first six months surpassed its program for the period.

“The BTr’s six-month performance surpassed the program for the period by 92.20% or P44.6 billion and was already 59.52% higher than the P58.3 billion full-year program driven by higher income from Bond Sinking Fund (BSF) investment, dividend remittances, as well as NG share from PAGCOR profit and interest income from NG deposits,” it added.

On the other hand, state spending inched up by 0.42% to P2.41 trillion in the six-month period, from P2.4 trillion a year earlier. This was 6.6% lower than the P2.58-trillion program for the first half.

The BTr attributed the slower spending to “substantial outstanding checks recorded as of end-June amounting to P124.1 billion, according to consolidated bank reports.”

“Moreover, the lower-than-programmed interest payments; ongoing implementation of some social protection programs, particularly the registration and validation of beneficiaries; as well as billing concerns from suppliers/creditors, such as late submissions of billing statements and compliance with documentary requirements have affected the spending outturn for the period,” it added.

Primary spending, which refers to spending net of interest payments, edged lower by 0.7% to P2.13 trillion. This was 6.59% lower than the government’s P2.3-trillion projection.

Meanwhile, interest payments increased by 9.81% to P282.5 billion, below its P302.8-billion program for the period.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said that the narrower budget deficit in the January-June period was due to revenue growth supported by the economic recovery.

“While government expenditures posted a slower growth due to more disciplined government spending and no large lockdowns since 2022 and as a policy priority, going forward, fundamentally reduced government expenditures on financial assistance and COVID-19 programs, all of which helped improve the country’s fiscal performance since the start of 2023 in terms of less need for the government to borrow, somewhat tempering the increase in the country’s outstanding debt,” he said in a Viber message.

JUNE DEFICIT

In June alone, the budget deficit stood at P225.4 billion, higher by 4.58% from the P215.5 billion gap in the same month a year ago.

“The higher deficit was due to a 7.91% year-over-year drop in government receipts even as expenditures contracted by 2.59%,” the BTr said.

At the same time, government revenues declined by 7.91% to P267.3 billion from P290.3 billion a year ago.

Broken down, tax revenues dropped by 5.12% to P238.9 billion as collections from the BIR went down by 5.07% to P164.7 billion while Customs revenues slipped by 2.72% to P74.1 billion.

Meanwhile, nontax revenues fell by 26.13% year on year to P28.4 billion.

BTr revenues declined by 48.19% to P10.8 billion due to lower dividend remittances, while revenues from other offices inched down by 0.34% to P17.7 billion.

Government spending slipped by 2.59% to P492.7 billion in June from P505.8 billion a year ago.

The BTr said this was “partly due to the lower National Tax Allotment shares of Local Government Units and outstanding checks, or those checks issued but not yet presented for payment of encashment by suppliers or creditors, in various agencies.”

Primary expenditures dropped by 6.23% to P439.8 billion while interest payments climbed by 43.89% to P52.9 billion.

“The budget deficit for the month of June (was) the widest so far this year or since December 2022, largely due to year-on-year decline in government revenues partly due to the reduction in individual tax rates for most income brackets since January 2023 under the TRAIN Law,” Mr. Ricafort said.

Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) law, further reductions in the personal income tax rates took effect on Jan. 1.

This year, the government has set a budget deficit ceiling of P1.499 trillion, equivalent to 6.1% of the gross domestic product.

The program consists of P3.729 trillion in revenues and P5.228 trillion in disbursements.

As of end-March, the deficit-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio was at 4.84%, lower than the 6.41% in the first quarter a year ago and the 7.33% seen in 2022.

Aboitiz’ Economic Estates achieves first and only 5-star BERDE District Certification; leads sustainable development in the PHL

July 28, 2023 | 3:21 pm

LIMA Estate Masterplan — LIMA Estate by Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates is the largest and only industrial park to achieve a BERDE District Certification with a 5-star rating, the highest rating Philippine Green Building Council (PhilGBC) awards to developments.

Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) Economic Estates, the leader in smart and sustainable industrial development, is intensifying its efforts to redefine and develop next-generation industrial estates. Its flagship project, LIMA Estate in Batangas, recently attained 5-star BERDE (Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence) District Certification from the Philippine Green Building Council, a local standard for assessing and certifying industrial estates’ environmental compliance. This achievement solidifies its leadership position in the industry by becoming the first and only industrial estate in the Philippines to attain certification for sustainability.

“In our relentless pursuit to safeguard the environment and foster resilient communities, we have placed sustainability and smart technology adoption at the heart of what we do,” said Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates. “This way, we are not only transforming our business but also making a positive impact on the environment, our country, and the communities wherein we operate.”

AIC Economic Estates is leading the charge in accelerating decarbonization efforts, utilizing renewable energy sources, and leveraging advanced technologies, data science, and artificial intelligence to optimize operations.

Powering efficient and resilient ecosystem solutions

Upholding best practices in environmental management, social responsibility, and good governance is a key priority for AIC Economic Estates. This is seen through how they are capitalizing on the synergies within the Aboitiz Group to provide self-sufficient ecosystem solutions, powered by renewable energy sources and sustainable practices. These have been instrumental in minimizing the environmental impact of various industries throughout their estates in Southern Luzon and Central Visayas.

AIC’s affiliate for water supply and distribution, Estate Water, has contributed to the responsible management of precious water resources by reducing water loss across all Economic Estates. LIMA Water, which operates within LIMA Estate in Batangas, has maintained a non-revenue water (NRW) level below 5% over the past 5 years. The program has been extended to MEZ2 Estate in Lapu-Lapu City and West Cebu Estate in Balamban, both in Cebu, resulting in a significant reduction in NRW.

By leveraging smart water network solutions, AIC has transformed its water facilities into interconnected and intelligent systems, resulting in impressive results for locators. These include a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and a 30% decrease in the budget allocated for repairs. Additionally, the investment in technology allows Estate Water to consistently deliver an average water pressure of 40-50 psi, enhancing operational efficiency for locators and proving the success of the system.

Within MEZ2 Estate, Estate Water manages a centralized water treatment facility recognized by the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau as one of the most consistently compliant treatment systems in Cebu.

Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates’ affiliate Estate Water has achieved remarkable success in reducing water losses across all economic estates located in Southern Luzon and Central Visayas, while also managing DENR-compliant Centralized Wastewater Treatment Facilities.

Furthermore, Enerzone Group, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power, the Aboitiz Group’s holding company for investments in power generation and distribution, partially sources energy from renewable sources such as geothermal, hydroelectric, and solar. At LIMA Estate, 21% of LIMA Enerzone’s total power generation is derived from renewable sources, while Aboitiz Power’s Retail Energy Supplier (RES) supplies 18 megawatts of renewable energy to the estate’s contestable customers. Capitalizing further on renewable energy sources, found throughout LIMA Estate are roof-mounted solar energy systems generating 17 megawatts of energy.

“We have taken steps towards creating sustainable infrastructure systems. Our goal is to achieve similar results across all Economic Estates by continuously driving a widespread transition to renewable energy and delivering sustainable practices,” explained Fernandez de Mesa.

Accelerating decarbonization efforts

AIC Economic Estates is also at the forefront of advancing sustainable mobility in the Philippines by providing alternative transportation and housing options. MEZ2 Estate has been utilizing electric shuttles and tricycles since 2015, while LIMA Estate recently began operating a fleet of electric vehicles with charging stations for its intra-estate shuttle services. The estates also feature bike lanes and green spaces that enhance walkability and bikeability.

Shifting to electric vehicles as part of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates’ strategy towards Net Zero Carbon, a fleet of Electric Minibuses is operating the intra-estate shuttle system within MEZ2 and LIMA Estates.

Coupled with the construction of The Pods at LIMA, a sustainable dormitory facility for employees, this pioneering effort is a key component in helping decarbonize LIMA Estate’s transportation system, reducing the need to transport people in and out of the Estate from long distances.

Jolan Formalejo, Vice President for Inventory Generation, stated, “We are excited to expand our electric vehicle fleet and co-living spaces, as well as introduce new initiatives that enhance our smart and sustainable industrial-anchored economic estates. We aim to deeply embed the sustainability mindset throughout our organization and encourage our partners, locators, and host communities to embrace the same standards.”

Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates’ bold stride towards sustainable, smart, and future-ready estates is set to advance the country’s sustainability agenda while driving economic growth, business productivity, job creation, and attracting investments to the Philippines.

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Samsung launches new foldable smartphones, tablets, watches

July 28, 2023 | 3:17 pm

Samsung Electronics Co. recently launched in the Philippines its next generation of foldable flagship smartphones, the Galaxy Z Flip5 and Fold5, alongside new tablets and watches.

Foldables target Generation MZ (millennials and Gen Z) consumers’ flair for both unique self-expression and productivity, Anthony Simon Wee, head of flagship mobile experience at Samsung Philippines, said during a briefing.

“The Galaxy Z Flip5 aims to be your ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, and the Galaxy Z Fold5 is PC-like power in your pocket,” Mr. Wee said.

“The number one reason for purchase and satisfaction of the Galaxy Z Fold is its large screen at 72%,” he said on market survey results. “For the Galaxy Z Flip — design and function at 73%.”

The new generation of foldables target providing a premium and durable feel for consumers, according to Mr. Wee.

The two foldable devices feature the flagship-grade Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.

Durability improvements pivot on the integrated hinge module that prevents debris from getting in and allows its screens to sit flush when closed, compared to older generations.

Both are IPX8 rated for water and dust resistance with armor aluminum frames and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 applied to the front and back.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 has a large 3.4-inch folder-shaped Super AMOLED Flex Window, which can support multi-widget use, quick toggle settings, and a full QWERTY keyboard.

This allows users to maximize the rear dual cameras through FlexCam, Dual Preview, and Flex Mode, as users can make real-time selfie adjustments and quickly edit shots on a bigger screen.

The new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered image signal processing (ISP) corrects noise and enhances details and color tone for low-light images.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold5 improves portability with its weight of 253 grams and thickness of 13.4 millimeters folded.

It has a 7.6-inch main display that supports a peak brightness of 1,750 nits.

It has productivity enhancements with optimization of third-party apps, alongside its Taskbar that now allows users to quickly switch between four recent apps, move content with two-handed drag and drop, and run an app in the background with hidden pop-up.

Together with its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, AI enhances graphics and enables multi-game functionality supported by the device’s cooling system.

“Samsung is setting the standard of foldables and continually refining the experience,” said TM Roh, president and head of mobile experience business at Samsung Electronics, in a press statement.

“Every day, more people choose our foldables because they offer an experience people want that they can’t get on any other device,” he added.

The Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra feature an 11-inch, 12.4-inch, and 16.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, respectively.

The tablets are powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor with heat efficiency due to its two-way dissipation.

The lineup is now granted an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. Its in-box S Pen is also IP68 rated.

It has an improved quad-speaker system supported by Dolby Atmos.

The Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic highlight personal health guidance through improved features such as Sleep Score Factors, Sleep Coaching, Personalized Heart Rate Zone, and Body Composition, among others.

“We are delivering on our commitment to democratize advanced health monitoring tools, now offering easier access right from the wrist,” Mr. Roh said.

“From sleep and fitness coaching to nutritional insights, Samsung is providing new and convenient ways to help users gain understanding and take action for better health and wellness.”

Both watches come in a 1.3- or 1.5-inch display with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits.

The new lineup of Galaxy devices is available for pre-order until August 17. General availability starts on August 18.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 retails at P64,990 for the 256GB variant and P71,990 for the 512GB variant.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Fold5 retails at P98,990 for the 256GB variant, P105,990 for the 512GB variant, and P119,990 for the 1TB variant.

Both smartphones offer pre-order discounts on other products, free storage upgrades, and a one-year support service.

Pre-orders for the Galaxy Tab S9 series include free storage upgrade, a free Book Cover Keyboard, a free one-year Microsoft 365 subscription, and free four months of YouTube Premium. — Miguel Hanz L. Antivola

SM Foundation, Mastercard help bridge gaps in online learning

July 28, 2023 | 2:11 pm

Amidst the varied challenges of the past three years, the world witnessed solidarity and the power of sharing a vision. People from diverse backgrounds united to help students adapt and become more resilient despite the sudden shift to online learning. To this day, the collective efforts continue to foster growth and bring lasting impact on the youth.

Fueled by the belief in the power of education, the SM group and Mastercard came together in October 2021 through the SM Store Shop & Share campaign. This empowered The SM Store and Mastercard customers to spread social good, gifting e-tablets to 1,210 SM Foundation scholars. Two of the scholars are Monica Zapanta and Robin Raton.

Shiftings to better gadgets

Eager to pursue higher education, both Monica and Robin had to quickly adjust their headspace and create an environment at home that was conducive to learning. For the first few months, they used outdated laptops and mobile phones for classes, but as the workload increased, keeping up became challenging.

Monica, a Computer Science student, requires a tool she can use for coding and attending classes simultaneously. Robin, an education student, needed to install multiple video conferencing platforms and productivity software. But their laptops required more data and often crashed or ran out of storage, unable to run necessary applications.

“I was about to buy a new gadget for online learning,” Robin recalled. “With the help of Mastercard and The SM Store, we allocated the money I saved for my family’s needs, such as food and daily expenses.”

Beyond this, the new tablet allowed Robin to install much-needed applications for school, allowing him to conveniently complete key performance tasks such as demonstration teaching and reporting.

Robin uses his e-tablet from Mastercard to finish his school requirements.

Like Robin, the new tablet allowed Monica to put her previous worries behind her and focus on efficiently multitasking in school: “When there are internet or electricity outages, the tablet immensely helped me still attend classes because it consumes less power. It can stay on for longer and uses fewer data compared to a laptop.”

“The e-tablet inspired me to strive. It lessened the financial burden and stress that comes along with pursuing higher education. It has enabled me to focus more on my studies rather than constantly worrying if I’ll finish the things I need to complete,” she capped.

Monica conveniently uses her e-tablet while commuting on her way to school.

Beyond academics, the tablet became a way for them to have a balanced student life and extend a helping hand.

Robin uses the sketch pad applications to draw and unwind, and now that he’s having more in-person classes, his brother also uses the tablet for school research. On one end, Monica enjoys the lightweight feature of the tablet as it allows her to study and do tasks while on the go. She was also able to lend the tablet to her nephew to help save on data allocation.

Through the social good collaboration, SM group’s social good arm intends to maintain its partnership with like-minded groups, dedicated to utilizing the transformative power of education in breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty.

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PHL to probe sinking of overloaded boat that killed at least 26

July 28, 2023 | 12:31 pm

MANILA – The Philippine coast guard said on Friday it will investigate why a passenger boat that capsized in a lake near the capital, killing at least 26, was allowed to sail while overloaded.

Authorities rescued 40 people on Thursday after the vessel sank in strong winds, meaning it was carrying many more passengers than it was designed for, the coast guard said.

“We have called for investigation already, including on our personnel,” coast guard spokesperson Armand Balilo told CNN Philippines television, adding that complaints would be filed against the boat’s captain and operator.

The vessel was designed for roughly 40 passengers but it remains unclear how many people were allowed to board. The manifest showed only 22 names, the coast guard said.

Search and rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing, Mr. Balilo said.

It is the second-deadliest in the Southeast Asian nation this year, after 33 people died in a ferry fire in the southern Philippines in March.

The country was this week hit by Typhoon Doksuri which brought winds of up to 175 km an hour (108 miles an hour) to its northern and most populated Luzon island, where the capital Manila is located.

The country has a patchy record for maritime safety, with vessels at times sailing while overcrowded and many aging ships still in use. — Reuters

Smart goes all out on subscriber assistance during SIM Reg ‘grace period’

July 28, 2023 | 11:53 am

PLDT mobile services unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) continues its efforts to assist subscribers nationwide with registering and reactivating their SIM within the five-day grace period from the SIM Registration deadline last July 25.

Following the SIM Registration Law, Smart deactivated all outgoing calls and messages of unregistered SIMs on its network last July 26. Affected users are given a five-day grace period to apply for reactivation until July 30. All unregistered SIMs by July 31 will be deactivated permanently.

Smart, along with its value brand TNT, has reached out to all affected subscribers via text advisories, providing a link to the SIM Registration portal at smart.com.ph/simreg. Smart and TNT also continue to deploy assisted SIM Registration booths at Smart Stores nationwide and strategic areas across the country to help subscribers to register and reactivate their SIM. Smart and TNT have also extended their customer assistance via their official Facebook Messenger account and the hotline (02) 8888-1111.

Moreover, they have boosted their public service reminders across multimedia platforms under their ‘Mag-SIM Reg para hindi SIM Dead’ campaign, informing subscribers about the hassles of failing to register their SIM.

Since the launch of the SIM Registration drive last Dec. 26, 2022, Smart has been working closely with national agencies including the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), local government units, and private organizations to encourage and assist mobile users across the country to register their SIM.

By registering their SIM, Smart and TNT subscribers may continue enjoying data, call, and text services powered by the Philippines’ Fastest and Best Mobile Network as recognized by Ookla, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by enabling them to publish their stories directly on the BusinessWorld website. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

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New OMEGA watch marks one year to the Olympic Games Paris 2024

July 28, 2023 | 11:36 am

In exactly one year’s time, the world will be turning its attention to the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. To start the countdown to this historic sporting occasion, the event’s Official Timekeeper, OMEGA, is launching a brand new timepiece – complete with a golden touch.

The Seamaster Diver 300M “Paris 2024” Special Edition has been crafted as an exclusive tribute to the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad. This edition of the Olympic Games will mark OMEGA’s 31^st time as Official Timekeeper, a role the company has fulfilled since 1932.

For now, the new 42 mm timepiece will only be available from OMEGA Boutiques in the host city, Paris. It is created from stainless steel and 18K Moonshine™ Gold – OMEGA’s very own yellow gold alloy, which offers a more subtle hue, as well as high-resistance to fading. As an Olympic Games timepiece, the use of gold is an essential inclusion, and a reminder of the coveted medals that every athlete strives for. Most prominently, it has been used for the watch’s bezel, which features a laser-structured diving scale in positive relief, and a single dot of Super-LumiNova at 12 o’clock.

The laser-engraved dial also delivers an eye-catching look. Produced in white ceramic, it has been given a matte finish with polished waves in positive relief. On the date display at 6 o’clock, OMEGA has cleverly used the Paris 2024 typography to inscribe the numbers in black, while the central seconds hand carries a small yet visible Paris 2024 emblem.

These are not the only details to distinguish this original timepiece. The commemorative caseback reveals an inlayed 18K Moonshine™ Gold medallion, featuring the distinctive element of the Paris 2024 emblem, polished against a laser-ablated background. This is perfectly complemented by the stamped words “Paris 2024″ and the iconic Olympic Rings in stainless steel, which are polished on a frosted structure, to complete the Paris 2024 emblem.

Around the wrist, the watch is worn on a stainless steel bracelet with OMEGA’s new patented Quick Change System, meaning the wearer can easily switch it for something more personal – such as a Quick Change rubber strap in either blue, white or red – or even a dedicated Paris 2024 NATO Strap.

Of course, in the spirit of athletic excellence, this Seamaster Diver 300M is completed by the highest standards of precision and performance. The Co-Axial Master Chronometer 8800, along with the entire watch, has been tested and certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) to meet a stringent level of quality.

The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will begin on July 26, 2024. As Official Timekeeper, OMEGA has spent over 90 years developing and improving the most important technologies in sports measurement, while also recording the dreams of the world’s best athletes. The brand eagerly awaits the next exciting edition, where more great moments in time will undoubtedly be captured.

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