Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Youtube
Home Blog Page 5876

Apple’s new iPhone 13 touts faster 5G, sharper cameras

APPLE, Inc unveiled the iPhone 13 and a new iPad mini on Tuesday, expanding fifth generation (5G) connectivity and showing off faster chips and sharper cameras without raising the phone’s price.

The Cupertino, California-based company did not announce any blockbuster features or products, but analysts expect customers hanging onto older models like the iPhone X will be eager to upgrade. To encourage trade-ins, participating wireless carriers are offering incentives ahead of the year-end holiday season that to make the new phones free to some customers.

The iPhone 13 will have a new chip called the A15 Bionic that enables features like automatically translating text. The phone also has a better display, longer battery life and a Cinematic mode for automatically changing focus while taking videos. Apple said the iPhone 13 will have custom 5G antennas and radio components for faster speeds and will come in five colors.

The phone will start at $699, and participating wireless carriers will offer up to $700 off for qualifying trade-ins. The iPhone 13 Pro starts at $999 and the Pro Max starts at $1,099, with trade-in offers of up to $1,000. All three models will be available Sept. 24.

The prices are unchanged from last year, but some carriers such as AT&T, Inc. will offer the devices for no additional charge with subsidies of up to $1,000 if customers trade in a previous model and sign up for an installment plan.

Verizon Communications, Inc. and T-Mobile US, Inc. offered similar deals but with slightly lower subsidies up to $700. The biggest subsidies will go to customers who turn in iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 models.

Ben Bajarin, head of consumer technologies at Creative Strategies, said he expects those aggressive subsides will increase as Apple and carriers try to hold onto customers.

“That offer is unique to Apple, and it’s a strength they have to keep these sales cycles going for them and for the carriers,” Mr. Bajarin said.

The iPhone is Apple’s most important product, but Apple has rolled out a web of service and other products that are seen as locking customers into a system they enjoy — and would find expensive to leave.

The Series 7 smart watch will feature a larger display and faster charging. It will start at $399 and be available later this autumn.

The company also updated its iPad Mini with 5G connectivity and a reworked design that makes it look like the higher-end iPad Air and Pro models. Bob O’Donnell, head of TECHnalysis Research, said the small tablet was Apple’s most surprising announcement and could lure in customers who want a device with 5G that can handle more powerful apps than a phone.

“I don’t think it replaces any other device, like we’ve seen Apple try to position some of the bigger iPads as PC replacements,” Mr. O’Donnell said.

The new iPad Mini’s price rose by $100, but it also added new capabilities like compatibility with the company’s Apple Pencil and a faster chip than the larger-screened base model iPad, bucking a trend of smaller screens being cheaper. Apple showed the Mini in use by professionals like doctors.

Apple also updated its base-model iPad with a new camera. The new iPad will start at $329 and the Mini at $499. Both will be available next week.

Apple shares closed down about 1%, a sharper fall than a slight downturn in broader markets.

“It seems like there’s nothing really revolutionary announced, but of course, as usual, they announced enough improvements to at least generate some enthusiasm among consumers,” said Rick Meckler, partner at family investment office Cherry Lane Investments.

Apple’s biggest product launch of the year comes as some of the shine has come off its stock as business practices such as charging software developers commissions on in-app payments have come under regulatory scrutiny.

Apple shares were up about 11.6% year to date as of Tuesday’s close, trailing the Nasdaq Composite Index, which was up 16.7% over the same period.

Kim Forrest, founder and chief investment officer at Bokeh Capital, said she was not concerned by the lack of splashy, unexpected products, since Apple’s upgrades would keep customers. “I think the consumer, once it gets the Apple chip in its head, it’s very hard to dislodge,” she said. 

The Apple Watch has become a cornerstone of its $30.6-billion accessories segment, which was up 25% in Apple’s most recent fiscal year even as its iPhone revenue declined slightly. Analysts widely believe that Apple users who buy more than one product — such as an Apple Watch and iPhone — are more likely to stick with the brand and spend on the company’s apps and services.

Apple focused on fitness features such as improving how the watch tracks bicycling workouts and dust protection for hiking. The watch is paired tightly with Apple Fitness+, a paid service offering guided workouts with Apple instructors. The company added pilates, skiing-oriented workouts and group workouts.

Shares of exercise bike and online training company Peloton were down about 1.6%. — Reuters

A closer look at Super Tuscans

SUPER Tuscans sound so hyperbolized — really… what makes any wine SUPER??!

When I first heard this term in the mid-1990s around the time I started my wine career, I did not know how to wrap my head around this wine concept. Back then, my limited knowledge of Tuscan wines covered the Chiantis and the Brunellos (di Montalcino) and that Sangiovese was the main grape varietal of any interest in that region. But then Sassicaia happened!

Wine was already flourishing in Hong Kong, even prior to the Handover of 1997, and I was a Pinoy expat covering the Asia-Pacific market based in Hong Kong. Being there and selling wines as a job was a blessing for any eager wine student like myself. Because I was part of the wine industry, I got to attend various wine events, tastings, seminars, exhibitions, and hang out with wine buddies, especially F&B Managers of hotels. This unforgettable experience catapulted my wine knowledge and fed my voracious thirst for genuine wine appreciation. Nothing substitutes for wine tasting!

During that period, on the more premium spectrum of wine, Grand Cru Bordeaux were already huge, both Napa and Australia’s Penfolds were also gaining ground, and Italian wines were the usual Brunello, Barolo, Barbaresco (the 3 Bs), but the Super Tuscans were also starting to surface.

Hong Kong always is a trend-setter, and what’s hot in the wine and spirits world, Hong Kong gets it first in the Asian region. Solaia and Sassicaia were the first two Super Tuscans I ever tasted. Sadly, I can’t recall the vintages nor the prices, and even my tasting notes, written on a paper coaster, are long lost — but these wines were not very Italian-like at all in my vivid recollection. In fact, they were not even Bordeaux-like, but more like crossbreed between a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and a Brunello di Montalcino.

ORIGIN OF SUPER TUSCANS
Nobody really knows who coined the term “Super Tuscan” except that every wine critic, from Robert Parker to Jancis Robinson to James Suckling to the Wine Spectator, have been using this term since the 1980s to describe Tuscan wines that do not the meet the strict conditions of Italy’s highest wine classification of Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), and yet are wines of good quality.

To be accredited as a DOCG, producers have to abide by strict rules governing the production of their wines, including the allowed grape varietals, the yield limits, grape ripeness, acceptable winemaking process, barrel usage and maturation, up to bottle aging before release. The biggest reason why the Super Tuscan term came to fruition was because some Tuscan wine producers used unsanctioned grape varietals, in particular varietals of French origin including Bordeaux luminaries cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and cabernet franc, and rhone royalty syrah in their wines. This was started by a few in the late 1960s/early 1970s but really caught on in the 1980s. The Italian wine authorities back then were very adamant about using only grape varietals indigenous to the Tuscan region and these were red grapes sangiovese, canaiolo, and corolino, and green grapes malvasia and trebbiano. 

Adding the prefix “Super” to Tuscan was then viewed as appropriate because prior to 1992, wines made outside of the rules of the DOC/DOCG could only get a generic and most basic classification of Vino da Tavola (“table wine,” VdT), and highly acclaimed wines like pioneers Sassicaia (whose first commercial vintage came out in 1968) and Tignanello (first vintage in 1971) were obviously mislabeled as just VdTs. These two brands were among the earliest Tuscan wines made from French varietals and they were, over time, viewed to have been equal or even better — with matching high prices — when compared to their DOC/DOCG Tuscan counterparts.

Eventually a 4th Classification (after VdT, DOC, DOCG) was created, the more wide-encompassing Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT). So, wines that did not make the cut of their DOC/DOCG set standards all fall under this more lenient IGT classification. Tuscany by itself has 41 DOC and 11 DOCG classifications, so technically, Super Tuscans can be IGTs that come from any of these 52 DOC/DOCG zones and sub-zones.

Even with the advent of the IGT classification, the term “Super Tuscan” persisted, as it does sound better and more marketable.

GETTING RECOGNITION AS DOC CLASSIFICATION
Super Tuscans got a big boost in legitimacy when the Bolgheri wine region got its DOC classification in 1994. DOC or Denominazione di Origine Controllata (without the “G”) is the second highest wine classification just behind DOCG. Bolgheri is like the de facto home of Super Tuscans because it is the DOC with the biggest percentage of plantings of cabernet sauvignon and merlot. Bolgheri DOC also happened to be the home of both Tenuta San Guido, makers of Sassicaia, and Tenuta dell’Ornellaia, makers of Ornellaia and presently, the hottest Super Tuscan now, the 100% Merlot Masseto.

To get a classification of Bolgheri DOC, the wines produced in this sub-zone need to contain 10-80% of cabernet sauvignon, up to 80% of merlot, and up to 30% of other red varietals. However, under the Bolgheri DOC rule, Masseto being 100% merlot does not qualify, so despite its skyrocketing price, Masseto is only classified as an IGT.

A more recent DOC that also emanated from the Super Tuscan movement is the Maremma Toscana DOC, created in 2011. In this DOC, for red wines, the requirement is 60% or more of ccabernet ssauvignon, ssangiovese, mmerlot, and/or ssyrah, and a maximum 40% of any other allowed red varietals in the region. Varietal labeling is also allowed in Maremma Toscana DOC, which is not a common sight for a Tuscan DOC/DOCG wine.

And lastly, Sassicaia got its own sub-zone within the Bolgheri DOC, when the Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC was created in 2013. This is the ultimate recognition of Sassicaia as no other wine estate ever had their own Italian wine denomination.

The DOC classification recognizing the Super Tuscans in these sub-zones made these Tuscan treasures mainstream wines.

The Super Tuscan phenomenon in the late 1990s/2000s created a bandwagon of “me-too” wines using primarily popular French Bordeaux varietals and syrah all over Tuscany. The price of these wannabee “Super Tuscans” range from sub-€10 to highs of over €100 per bottle, but quality of these wines has sadly been all over the place.

I remembered my visit to Florence to attend the Italian Buy Wine Fair in 2013. Since the Chianti wine region is super accessible to Florence, I saw several Tuscan wine producers in the exhibition. And in this wine fair, I got to taste a lot of good, decent — but also many forgettable — IGT/Super Tuscan wines. A good number, in fact, tasted kind of like simple New World-style Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Being still more of a wine purist, I prefer Tuscan classics, namely: Chianti Classico Riserva, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and, of course, the Brunello di Montalcino. I also think of Sangiovese as the only authentic Tuscan varietal as opposed to the French imported varietals. But regardless of my “purist” preference, I still got seduced by the Super Tuscans. Who honestly wouldn’t? This came from the amazing Super Tuscan wines I experienced personally.

I fortunately had tasted in the past some of the most successful Super Tuscans, including the likes of Sassicaia, Antinori’s Tignanello & Solaia, Masseto & Ornellaia (under the Frescolbaldi group since 2005), Ruffino’s Modus, and Banfi’s Execelsus. My favorite in this elite list is the Sassicaia. I was very fortunate to be able buy one from a friend — the Sassicaia 2016 vintage, which also got a perfect score of 100 points from wine demigod Robert Parker. This wine, made from majority cabernet sauvignon with cabernet franc, was oozing with fragrances of black currant, ripe berries, lavender. It was very expressive, medium bodied with silky texture, and a long lingering explosion of flavors from nutmeg to delicious flambe berries. While the price of Sassicaia is quite prohibitive, this wine is still worth the occasional spending  splurge when we are celebrating something special.

Which Super Tuscan is your favorite wine? Let me know.

 

The author is the only Filipino member of the UK-based Circle of Wine Writers. For comments, inquiries, wine event coverage, wine consultancy and other wine related concerns, e-mail the author at protegeinc@yahoo.com or via Twitter at www.twitter.com/sherwinlao.

Central bank requires payment systems to comply with international standards

THE CENTRAL BANK is requiring designated payment systems and their participants to comply with the Principles for Financial Market Infrastructures (PFMI) to help ensure their stability amid the crisis.

“The PFMI is a set of international standards designed to strengthen financial market infrastructures and make them more resilient to financial crises and participant defaults,” BSP Circular 1126 signed by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Benjamin E. Diokno said.

These principles are in line with the Payment System Oversight Framework and the Republic Act 1127 or the National Payment System Act.

The standards were developed by the Bank for International Settlements and the International Organization of Securities Commissions for financial market infrastructures such as payment systems, central securities depositories, securities settlement systems, central counterparties, and trade repositories.

“The adoption of the standard is very timely given the surge of digital payments in the country, as it ensures payment systems to have safeguards in place which are at par with global practices,” the central bank said in a statement.

The PFMI has 24 principles that are focused on risk management. These are classified under eight broad categories: general organization, credit and liquidity risk management, settlement, default management, general business risk and operational risk management, access, efficiency, and transparency.

The circular stressed the importance of the BSP’s coordination with foreign regulators to ensure the reliability and safety of cross-border payment transactions.

It also gives the BSP the power to act to ensure compliance in cases of violations on the part of PhilPaSS participants.

The Monetary Board in July designated the Philippine Peso Real-Time Gross Settlement Payment System or PhilPaSS as a systematically important payment system.

In line with this, BSP Memorandum No. M-2021-045 required direct members of PhilPaSS Plus as well as registered nonbank operators of payment systems using the interface to comply with requirements under the Payment System Oversight Framework. These include the submission of reports and documents relevant to ensuring the efficiency and safety of activities carried out on PhilPaSS Plus.

There are 189 PhilPaSS Plus participants as of Aug. 31, including banks, quasi-banks, BSP units, and the Bureau of the Treasury. — LWTN

AboitizPower signs supply deal with Pelco II 

PAMPANGA Electric Cooperative II (Pelco II) signed a power supply agreement with Aboitiz Power Corp. that will provide cleaner energy to the province. 

AboitizPower said in a statement on Wednesday that Pelco II signed up for the supply of 40 megawatts (MW) of the company’s “Cleanergy” brand for Pampanga over the next 10 years. The agreement was signed in July 2021. 

Under the partnership, clean and renewable energy is delivered to households and businesses within the Pelco II franchise area, which consists of Guagua, Sasmuan, Bacolor, Sta. Rita, Mabalacat, and Lubao. 

The Cleanergy supply is sourced from the Tiwi-Makban geothermal power plants in Laguna, Batangas, and Albay, which are operated by AP Renewables, Inc. (APRI). 

The agreement was reached after a competition selection process (CSP) initiated by Pelco II.  

Dennis B. Jordan, APRI president and chief operating officer, said the partnership strengthens the role of AboitizPower in promoting the use of renewable energy in the country. 

He said through the support and trust of the company’s partners like Pelco II, “AboitizPower is able to fulfill its mission of advancing business and communities and live up to its promise of being a pillar of inclusive growth for the country.” 

AboitizPower quoted Pelco II General Manager Amador T. Guevarra as saying that the company was chosen since it is the most responsive and compliant bidder. 

“We are hopeful that this partnership with AboitizPower will really contribute to the development of Pampanga and expand the use of renewable energy in the country. We all know that the focus of government efforts to develop North Luzon is concentrated on Pampanga,” Mr. Guevarra said. 

AboitizPower plans to increase its Cleanergy capacity to 4,600 MW in the next 10 years, aiming for a 50:50 balance between its renewable and thermal portfolios by 2030. 

In a separate statement, Aboitiz Construction, Inc. said on Wednesday that it completed the maintenance and shutdown works for the 105-MW second unit of Sarangani Energy Corp.’s 210-MW coal power plant in Maasim, Sarangani province in August. 

The project sought to maintain efficiency and improve plant conditions in order to provide sufficient power supply to areas in Southern and South Central Mindanao. 

“Aboitiz Construction was mainly involved in the repair of the boiler, pipeline system, and water treatment area of the power plant. Major maintenance works were focused on furnace, electrostatic precipitator, and steam turbine generator areas,” it said. 

“These tasks target to maintain the efficiency of the power plant operations and strengthen safety,” it added. 

On Wednesday, shares of AboitizPower rose 5.21% or P1.50 to close at P30.30 apiece. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave 

Talent investment, regional cooperation, and PPPs are keys to greater cyber resilience

By Arjay L. Balinbin, Senior Reporter

A GROWING talent pool, regional cooperation, and public-private partnerships (PPPs) are keys to increasing cyber resilience, international cybersecurity experts said.

“In the Cyber Age, as we experience an accelerated digital transformation, we’re facing security challenges that put a strain on cybersecurity resources. Investing in cyber talent and promoting security awareness and digital education for users are the keys to success in building cyber resilient digital societies and economies,” Chris Connell, managing director for Asia-Pacific at Kaspersky, said at Kaspersky’s APAC Online Policy Forum III on Tuesday.

A new paradigm for global law enforcement has emerged as a result of the increasing cyber threats and cybercriminal activities.

“[Among] the key challenges that INTERPOL identified are the gaps in law enforcement cyber capabilities and capacity, nationally, regionally and globally,” said INTERPOL Cybercrime Director Craig Jones, noting criminal networks’ ability to expand their infrastructure and activities.

“To overcome this challenge, law enforcement must be a trusted partner beyond national borders and sectors. Being collaborative, inclusive and open will help us reduce the gaps, bridging the divides in capabilities and capacity,” he added.

Cyber capacity building in the Asia-Pacific region should “focus on network infrastructure, be alert to the challenges brought by cybersecurity, and strengthen the development of personnel training system,” said Li Yuxiao, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of Cyberspace Studies and secretary-general of the Cyber Security Association of China.

Along with their aggressive push toward a more connected society, some countries have begun strengthening their cybersecurity policies and regulations.

“As we enter the era of the Fourth Revolution, cybersecurity is becoming more important than ever. For example, in the European Union, the regulations on automotive cybersecurity will be mandatory for all new vehicles produced from July 2024,” said Seungjoo Kim, a member of South Korea’s Presidential Committee on the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“As the importance of cybersecurity spreads across all areas, security experts are forced to have more in-depth domain knowledge than ever before. Now, it’s time for us to think about a more effective work force development program to train security experts specialized in each industrial sector,” he added.

Dining In/Out (09/16/21)

COOP Fresh all natural gochujang pork samgyupsal

The Pen offers deals for 45th anniversary

FORTY-FIVE years ago, The Peninsula Manila opened its doors at the corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues to coincide with the World Bank-International Monetary Fund Convention. To commemorate the 45th anniversary of its founding in 1976, General Manager Masahisa Oba asked the hotel’s Executive Chef Xavier Castello and his chefs to cook up an extensive menu featuring classic favorites as well as creating new flavors with only one stipulation — prices must reflect the spirit of the anniversary. That’s how the final selections gracing the 45th anniversary menus got to be priced at P45, P197.60, P450, and P1,976.60. The 45th anniversary menus feature offerings from The Lobby, Spices, and The Peninsula Boutique and are now available until Sept. 30. The Lobby’s Takeout and Delivery Menu includes Avocado Toast, Asado Pork Belly Bao, and Gnocchi Carbonara (each for P450), while Spices has Nasi Goreng, Vegetable Samosa, Tom Kha Gai, Free-range Chicken Satay, Salmon Fillet Tikka Masala, and Yam Sam-O (each for P450). The Peninsula Boutique celebrates its anniversary with ice cream, cakes, cookies, chocolates and other sweet indulgences in its Takeout and Delivery Menu. Among the items on the menu are Chocolate Chip Cookies, Strawberry Croissants, and Chocolate Chip Muffins (available for P197.60 for any two); Moist Chocolate Cake (P1,976); and Strawberry Shortcake (P1,976). For inquiries and orders, contact The Peninsula Manila online through PenChat, the 24-hour e-concierge, via Facebook Messenger https://bit.ly/PeninsulaOnlineFacebook, or via WhatsApp at https://bit.ly/PeninsulaOnlineWhatsApp. Customers can also call The Peninsula Boutique at 8887-5747 or 8887-2888, send an SMS message at 0917-557-8014, or e-mail penboutiquepmn@peninsula.com.

Century Park offers treats as it marks 45 years

CENTURY Park Hotel has a number of reasons to celebrate this September.  After its awarding of the Safety Seal Certification, it was recently granted Multiple Use Hotel status by the Department of Tourism and Bureau of Quarantine. Non-quarantine and quarantine guests can now stay and enjoy the hotel with the enforcement of stringent health and safety protocols. This latest development could not have come at a better time as the hotel is holding its Sapphire Anniversary this month. On its 45th year, the hotel has prepared celebration packages and treats to mark the occasion. For P4,995 net, enjoy a feast good for eight to 10 persons. The hotel’s chefs have prepared weekly themed menus: Chinese, Japanese, Western, and Filipino. Each package comes with a free anniversary Dark Chocolate & Raspberry Mousse Cake and P200 off at the Deli Snack. One day advance booking is required by calling 8528-5855/56 or sending a message to 0917-633-2497. Deliveries can be arranged for Grab, Lalamove or other delivery services, with transport fees shouldered by the customer. Century Park Hotel is also giving away free Deli Snack Rewards Cards to guests on its anniversary month. The DELIciously DELIghtful Deals allows customers to earn rewards such as bread and pastries during their visit from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30.  Each P500 purchase made at the outlet (from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. only) is equivalent to one stamp. Orders made from food delivery apps, except Food-on-the-Go, are excluded in the rewards program. Redemptions can be made until Nov. 30. To know more about Century Park Hotel and its deals, visit www.centurypark.com or contact the hotel via e-mail at information@centurypark.com.ph or call 528-8888.

Boutwood’s Helm on 50 Best Discovery List

HELM, the fine dining restaurant of chef Josh Boutwood, has been included in the 50 Best Discovery List, an expert-approved collection of dining and drinking destinations worldwide. By virtue of the recent citation, this 10-seater restaurant located at The Arya Residences in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, is now part of just over 2,000 venues on the planet that are part of an elite collection of restaurants and bars. The 50 Discovery List curates its selection based on responses from their global voting academies, who name the best restaurants and bars as part of the lists for The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, The World’s 50 Best Bars, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Asia’s 50 Best Bars, and Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants. It provides a recommended listing for its 2 million or so followers to explore in their travels, providing a roadmap of where to dine and drink across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Of Filipino-British descent, Mr. Boutwood is recognized as a culinary maverick who worked with some of the best restaurants in Europe. In 2012, he joined The Bistro Group as executive corporate chef. Mr. Boutwood is an advocate of using only the best and, at times, unique ingredients that he weaves into elegant and innovative food. At Helm, he often serves his 11-course degustacion menu based on certain themes like colors. Follow @helmmn.

Crimson Hotel offers dining deals

DINING Deals from Crimson Hotel Filinvest City, Manila are on offer at the HSMA (Hotel Sales and Marketing Association International)’s September Online Sale from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. In the sale, P1,000 Dining Vouchers are going for P700 and P2,000 Dining Vouchers going for P1,300. Then save as much as 35% on Baker J and Firehouse Pizza food & beverage orders. With the Firehouse Pizza Trio Voucher for P999, order any three Classic or Signature pizzas in one go. There is also a Baker J Viennoiserie Voucher for P350. Enjoy savings of 30% per box of six assorted Croissant, Pain Au Chocolat, and Pain Au Raisin. There is also a Baker J Cake Voucher for P999 for sweet discounts on any Baker J cake. For inquiries, call 0998-591-5224 or e-mail alabang.salescenter3@crimsonhotel.com. Vouchers are available from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. The vouchers are valid for use until Oct. 15, 2022.

COOP Fresh’s all-natural and organic selection

RECOGNIZING the trend for healthier and cleaner options, online specialty grocer COOP Grocer has introduced its own line of all-natural and organic products ranging from meat, seafood, fruits, vegetables, to ready-made food. The line is called COOP Fresh, and each item is non-GMO certified and grown with no growth hormones, preservatives, antibiotics, or pesticides and using only natural fertilizers. Additionally, all products are locally farmed in Cavite, Laguna, Ilocos Norte, and Palawan. The produce is freshly harvested every week. By working directly with local farmers, COOP Grocer eliminates the middleman, allowing the company to offer competitive pricing for its customers and easier access to all-natural and organic items. “Certified organic” products guarantee that the animals used were only given hormone- and GMO-free feed and raised in an open range, sustainable environment. “Natural,” on the other hand, means that products were made with only all-natural ingredients and contain no preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors. When it comes to its meat and seafood, “all-natural” assures that no MSG, additives, chemicals, or extenders were added in the preparation process. Order from the official website www.coopgrocer.com or through the app which can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play Store.

Kenny Rogers offers Beyond Meat burgers

KENNY Rogers Roasters has partnered with plant-based meat producer Beyond Meat to give its customers a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste and flavor. Beyond Meat makes meat substitutes that are low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and free of antibiotics and hormones from animal-based counterparts. Now on offer are Kenny’s Beyond Burger, a Beyond Meat burger patty topped with fresh lettuce, tomato, cheese, and mayo, sandwiched between two toasted buns; and Kenny’s Beyond Mashed Potato, a meal that includes a plant-based burger patty nestled on top of mashed potato, and a serving of mushroom gravy. Initially launched in June at selected stores, it was well-received and sold out after a few weeks. Kenny’s Beyond Mashed Potato and Kenny’s Beyond Burger are now available in Kenny Rogers Roasters branches nationwide at P295 each. Order Kenny’s Beyond Deliciously Healthy meals on kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph or via the hotline at 8-555-9000.

McDonald’s Twister Fries are back

THE MCDONALD’S Twister Fries returned to McDo stores on Sept. 15, and can be ordered on its own or as an add-on to McDo favorites like the Big Mac or Coke McFloat. It is available in Regular and Sharing sizes. Order it via McDonald’s Take Out, Drive-Thru, McDelivery, Grab Food, and Foodpanda.

Jack ‘n Jill Roller Coaster releases a new flavor

JACK ‘N JILL Roller Coaster — an iconic ring-shaped potato snack — now has a new look and flavor, barbecue. Roller Coaster Barbecue comes in two sizes, a solo pack and a buddy pack for sharing. Roller Coaster — created by Universal Robina Corp. — are available in Shopee, all leading supermarkets nationwide, and in select grocery apps.

Saab Magalona-Bacarro shares steak dinner secret

IN THE first episode of La Germania’s recent Masterclass Series, actress and musician Saab Magalona-Bacarro, alongside her husband, businessman and Cheats frontman Jim Bacarro shared their secrets to making their favorite steak and mashed potatoes at home. The full episode can be viewed on La Germania’s Facebook. La Germania products are available online through La Germania’s official e-commerce website www.lagermaniaph.com and e-commerce platforms on Shopee and Lazada.

BSP remits P15B in dividends to gov’t

BW FILE PHOTO

THE CENTRAL BANK remitted P15 billion in advanced dividends to give the government liquidity amid the prolonged crisis.

“Extraordinary liquidity measures were undertaken. These include purchases of government securities in the secondary market, remittance of P35 billion in advance dividends, and provisional advances to the National Government,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin E. Diokno said in a speech on Tuesday.

Mr. Diokno said in a Viber message that they remitted the additional P15 billion last month.

“[The] BSP is committed to sustaining a sound financial system conducive to a strong and inclusive economic recovery,” Mr. Diokno said.

Government-owned and -controlled corporations are required by law to remit half of their profits to the Bureau of the Treasury. However, the New Central Bank Act lets the BSP use these dividends for its capitalization.

In March 2020, the BSP also remitted P20 billion in advanced dividends to the National Government to support its coronavirus pandemic response.

The BSP’s move to remit dividends this year is a welcome development as the country continues to face the crisis, UnionBank of the Philippines, Inc. Chief Economist Ruben Carlo O. Asuncion said.

“I think this is one of those extraordinary measures during extraordinary times. It is also delivering on what Mr. Diokno has consistently said during this once-in-a-lifetime pandemic crisis that the BSP will support government all the way,” Mr. Asuncion said in a Viber message.

In July, the BSP for the fourth time extended a P540-billion short-term, no-interest loan to the National Government, which Mr. Diokno called “bridge financing.” It is expected to be repaid in October.

The central bank earlier said they are willing to extend direct advances to the government and keep benchmark rates low “for as long as necessary” to support economic recovery. — L.W.T. Noble

SEC launches one-day registration system 

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Wednesday launched a new feature in its online company registration system that allows domestic corporations to register with the commission through a simplified one-day process. 

“The single-day processing of applications for company registration will help us further our goal of improving the ease of doing business in the country, complementing our other recent initiatives that aim to provide seamless transactions to the public,” SEC Chairperson Emilio B. Aquino said in a statement.  

The One-Day Submission and Express Registration of Companies (OneSEC) of the SEC’s electronic simplified processing of application for registration company (eSPARC) may be accessed via https://secwebapps.sec.gov.ph/application. 

OneSEC will accept applications for the registration of domestic stock corporations that are 100% owned by Filipinos and those which have common shares with a par value of not less than P1 and in non-decimal currency, and must be subscribed for through cash payment. 

Its incorporators, directors, and subscribers must be natural persons and residents of the Philippines. They must also have a perpetual corporate term of existence and must be located outside an economic zone. 

Meanwhile, its proposed corporate name must include a descriptor of its industry classification. Otherwise, OneSEC will prefill the primary purpose or main business activity based on its chosen industry classification and the applicant will not be able to modify it further. 

The corporate name should not have a trade name and must not be subjected to any appeal for reconsideration. 

OneSEC is also integrated with the commission’s online payment portal, the Electronic System for Payments to the SEC (eSPAYSEC). 

Once applicants complete the registration process, a digital copy of their interim certificates of incorporation (COI) may be downloaded. They may submit hard copies of registration documents a year from the issuance of the certificate. 

“Applicants may secure the original copy of their COI upon presentation of the digital interim COIs and proof of payment of the assessed registration fees, together with the originally signed and authenticated or notarized hard copies of their registration documents to the SEC,” the regulator said.  

Meanwhile, eSPARC will now also accept applications for the registration of partnerships and foreign corporations. 

Pending applications, which include those with company name reservation and applications in the perform and in-form status and those filed but not approved for payment and in compliance status, done through the SEC Company Registration System (CRS) must re-apply in eSPARC. 

 Applicants approved for payment holding a payment assessment form are instructed to proceed to the payment of registration fees. 

 “Meanwhile, applicants that have already paid their registration fees but could not upload the proof of payment in the CRS should submit the proof of payment, together with the signed and authenticated/notarized copies of the registration documents, to the selected processing office for the issuance of their COI,” the SEC said. 

Firms that have uploaded their proof of payment in the CRS but have not yet been issued a COI are instructed to submit their proof of payment, signed and authenticated or notarized copies of registration documents to the selected processing office. — Keren Concepcion G. Valmonte 

Viber launches in-app AR filters with Lens

AS we’ve mostly stayed indoors for the past months since the pandemic, communication apps — chats, voice records, and video calls — were essential tools for work and business, as well as catching up with family and friends. 

To make its app more fun to use, Rakuten Viber has introduced a new feature to chats: the Viber Lens. It teamed up with Snap, Inc., the creator of Snapchat, to bring augmented reality (AR) to its in-app camera.

“Snapchat has positioned itself as the top camera service with insane technology in terms of AR,” Rakuten Viber Vice-President for Product Development Nadav Melnick said in an online press conference on Sept. 7 via Zoom. “Whenever you look at the technology that Snapchat is offering, we will have it together with them.”

“This is enabling us to concentrate on stuff like content and tie all the loose ends between different products that are in our core,” Mr. Melnick added, noting how regular developments in the app affect group chats and calls. “This gives us a really good platform to evolve the lenses into a day-to-day communication tool.”

“By implementing this technology, Viber Lens helps empower our user’s creativity in making simple communication more entertaining and vivid. It gives them more freedom on how they relay their thoughts and feelings to whoever they’re talking to, all while having a little fun,” Rakuten Viber Senior Director for APAC David Tse said in a statement.

“With this partnership with Snap’s most advanced AR capabilities, we’re excited to usher in a new way of messaging while keeping true to our commitment to high security standards for all messages, video, and images sent over the app,” Mr. Tse added. 

The first batch of filters consists of 30 designs of animal masks, fantasy effects, Bitmoji avatars, and Viber characters.

To activate Viber Lens, launch the app’s camera within a chat and pick a filter. Take a photo or a clip and hit send.

“We are seeing a huge trend of people using videos and photos on our app,” Mr. Melnick said. “When we look at camera, [Viber] Lens is the first step in the evolution of how people communicate. Viber started as a voice app and transformed into a messaging app, but we are transforming and adding more abilities to our cameras.” 

“One would be very comfortable [communicate] with voice, one with doing it with only chat. But the majority of our users use different type of expressive media to express themselves,” he added. 

Rakuten Viber is also planning to add at least 20 new lenses each month. The communication app is also working with companies like Globe Telecom, Inc. and with Filipino artists like Leeroy New, Anina Rubio, and Jappy Agoncillo to create exclusive Viber Lenses for its users in the Philippines.

Mr. Melnick said in the future, Rakuten Viber also plans to also develop games, and improving the app with features for organizational communication and businesses.

Viber Lens is now available in the Philippines for iOS (Viber version 15.5.5 and up) and Android (Viber version 15.8.0.15 and up). Local lenses are available starting Viber version 16.0 and above. — Michelle Anne P. Soliman

Travel/Hotel News (09/16/21)

Tom Kha Gai

The Pen Manila among ‘The Top 100 Hotels in the World’

READERS of Travel + Leisure voted The Peninsula Manila among the world’s best 100 hotels as well as among the best 15 Asian city hotels in the September “World’s Best Awards 2021” issue. In Travel + Leisure, The Peninsula Manila ranked No. 25 on a list of The Top 100 Hotels in the World that include city hotels, jungle glamping, palace resorts, luxe safari lodges, and seaside hideaways that span the globe from the Caribbean to Southeast Asia, from Africa to South America. The Peninsula Manila also placed No. 5 on the list of Top 15 Asia City Hotels. The Peninsula Manila is the only Philippine hotel to make it on the lists. The hotel garnered an average score of 98.40% based on a survey where Travel + Leisure readers are asked to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities. The Peninsula Manila is currently celebrating its 45th anniversary, having opened in September 1976.

Johnnie Walker opens Global Visitor Experience

JOHNNIE Walker Princes Street, the eight-floor new visitor experience for the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky, officially opened Sept. 2 in the heart of Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh. Set over 71,500 sq ft, Johnnie Walker Princes Street uses world-first technology to reimagine the traditional whisky tour experience. The Johnnie Walker Princes Street visitor experience takes the concept of personalization to a scale never before seen in a global drinks visitor experience, with visitors having their personal flavor preferences mapped with drinks tailored to their palate. With more than 800 flavor combinations available in innovative dispensation systems, one person could visit Johnnie Walker Princes Street every day for more than two years and not have the same experience twice. Over 150 employees, speaking 23 languages between them, will bring to life the 200-year story. The building will contain a state-of-the-art experiential retail space where shoppers can select from most unique and exclusive whiskies, fill bottles direct from casks and have them engraved. The building is crowned by two world-class rooftop bars and a terrace with views of the Edinburgh skyline, including the Explorers’ Bothy whisky bar which is stocked with 150 different whiskies, and the 1820 cocktail bar where drinks are paired with a curated menu sourced from, and representing in culinary form, the four corners of Scotland. Johnnie Walker Princes Street opened its doors to the public on Sept. 6. Tickets for tours start from £25 (approximately P1,700) per person, including a 90-minute tour and three personalized Scotch whisky drinks (all samples are provided with carefully controlled measures and non-alcoholic alternatives are available to all guests). To book and for more information visit www.johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com.

Sheraton Manila Bay welcomes business travelers

SHERATON Manila Bay now offers the Business Essentials Room Package for business travelers valid for stays from Oct. 1 to Dec. 30, starting at P6,500 for a Deluxe Room and P10,000 for a Junior Suite. Guests can enjoy a relaxing overnight accommodation at the hotel’s spacious guestrooms and suites fitted with amenities to boost productivity such as a work desk with ergonomic seat, power outlets, complimentary local calls, high-speed internet access, and sanitation kits. The package is inclusive of packed breakfast and a 20% discount on food & beverage purchases. The hotel aligns with Marriott International Commitment to Clean program and implemented a variety of new protocols and elevated practices to maintain the hotel’s standards of cleanliness and commitment to providing excellent service. Sheraton Manila Bay has also been granted the Safety Seal Certification and has been authorized by the Department of Tourism and Bureau of Quarantine to operate as a Multi-Use Hotel. For reservations, call 5318-0788 or e-mail reservations.manilabay@sheraton.com.

Richmonde Hotels offer perks to vaccinated guests

THE RICHMONDE Hotel group, a member of the homegrown hospitality brand Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, advocates the vaccination of everyone eligible to get the vaccine, most especially the frontliners and the clinically vulnerable. For their part, the three Richmonde properties, namely Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, are prioritizing the vaccination of all staff on duty, getting them “Vaxxed and Ready” to serve hotel guests safely, while keeping themselves protected as well. The current vaccination rate amongst all employees is 97%, and is expected to hit 100%. But being “Vaxxed and Ready” is not just for the hotels’ employees. Richmonde extends its campaign to guests who are likewise “vaxxed” and ready, offering discount perks to vaccinated guests. Richmonde Hotel Ortigas and Eastwood Richmonde Hotel are giving 5% off on food and beverage orders to in-house guests ordering from Room Service, and to those ordering take-out. For essential stays, a 5% discount on its Best Available Rates is also offered by Richmonde Ortigas. Vaccinated Iloilo residents and visitors can enjoy a 10% discount on its City Haven Room Rates which start at P3,500 nett. A 10% discount is also available on food and beverage orders for dine-in or for takeaway at The Granary. To avail of the room and dining discounts, guests must show their vaccination card upon check-in or upon settling payments. Discounts are not valid for pastry items, special promotions or offerings, delivery orders, All-Day Snack Menu items at Richmonde Ortigas, Room Service orders at Richmonde Iloilo, and in conjunction with other promotions or discount privileges. For inquiries, reservations, and takeaway orders, contact Richmonde Hotel Ortigas at 8638-7777 and www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel at 8570-7777 and www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo at +6333 328-7888 and www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

Overseas Filipinos’ Cash Remittances (July 2021)

MONEY SENT HOME by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) reached a seven-month high in July, reflecting the improved employment situation in major economies that have begun recovering from the coronavirus pandemic. Read the full story.

Overseas Filipinos’ Cash Remittances (July 2021)

Philippines moves up in economic freedom list

THE PHILIPPINES’ economic freedom ranking went up four places after improved scores in “sound money” measuring inflation and money growth, according to a global report that measured 2019 data. Read the full story.

Philippines moves up in economic freedom list

1...5,8755,8765,877...12,613Page 5,876 of 12,613
© 2024 BusinessWorld Publishing.
All rights reserved.
Read our privacy guidelines
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Youtube