Fujifilm Expands Presence with New Office in Cebu City

 

 

In response to the surging demand for its products andservices, FUJIFILM Philippines Inc. (FFPH) and FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines Corp. (FUJIFILM BI PH) have announced the relocation of their offices to a larger space in Cebu City.

 

The new office, strategically situated at Mercedes Benz Tower, Mindanao Ave Cebu Business Park, Cebu City, marks a significant move for the global leaders in innovation. This expansion aims to strengthen Fujifilm's foothold in the region, enabling the brand to better cater to the local market and provide an enhanced experience for customers.

 

The Cebu City office will serve as a hub for after-sales support, featuring a local repair center for digital cameras and endoscopy products. Additionally, it will host a showroom showcasing advanced cameras, cutting-edge printing machines, and business software solutions, offering customers an interactive experience with Fujifilm's latest innovations in imaging and document management technology.

 

Mr. Masahiro Uehara, President of FFPH, expressed confidence in the strategic move, stating, "This relocation reinforces our commitment to swiftly expand our local operations, making our products and services more accessible to the southern part of the country."

 

Adding his perspective, Mr. Hideaki Kato, President of FUJIFILM BI PH, mentioned FUJIFILM BI PH has almost 60-years’ experience in the Philippines and continuously provides document process innovation for Cebu customers. He also highlighted the synergy between the two entities, stating, "We are proud to unveil this new office, bringing us closer to our customers in Cebu and emphasizing the collaboration between FUJIFILM Business Innovation Philippines and FUJIFILM Philippines."

 

Fujifilm, renowned for its relentless pursuit of technological advancements and customer-focused solutions, leverages its photographic industry expertise to push growth in healthcare, materials, and business innovation. The company's new group purpose, "Giving our world more smiles," underscores its commitment to creating a brighter future in society.

 

For more information, visit www.fujifilm.com/ph & www.fujifilm.com/fbph.

 

 

PHILIPPINE BALLET THEATRE ABLAZE WITH PASSION

 

The Philippine Ballet Theatre’s triumph over daunting obstacles and hardships is a celebration of the company; resolute spirit that continues the revolutionary fighting spirit of its founders. Bold, Brave, and Beautiful, the company, and all the people behind it, continue to dream and fight, striving to see their dreams come to reality.

In 2023, the Company celebrated its dramatic emergence from the pandemic. With the revolutionary fighting spirit of the Company and the solid vision of Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario, the company proved that they have stayed at the forefront of the industry. They closed the season with a warmly embraced full Filipino ballet “Ibalon”, an electric tour in the United States of America and their crowd favorite, “The Nutcracker”. This 2024, their journey continues as they prepare to take flight.

The Philippine Ballet Theatre proudly announces its vibrant 38th season. This season, PBT embraces the theme “Ablaze”. They begin the season with another brand new Filipino ballet “Sarimanok”. This ballet is ready to soar unveiling the beautiful tapestry of our culture.

“Sarimanok” is a dance of culture and myth. “Sarimanok” is a bird in Filipino Mindanao mythology. The magical bird with its majestic colors is the center of a love story between a mortal and a moon goddess.

This mythical creature, renowned for its vibrant feathers and captivating presence, takes center stage in a ballet that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. The ballet will be choreographed by the same creative team of “Ibalon”. Artistic Director Ronilo Jaynario will be choreographing the ballet with the music of Paulo Zarate. It is slated to premiere in early July.

“Music in Motion”, PBT’s second offering will be a mixed bill program of neoclassical works by artistic director Ronilo Jaynario with the music of maestro Raul Sunico. It will be a blend of familiar Filipino music brought to life through Philippine Ballet Theatre’s exquisite dancing. A flurry of emotions and diverse movement all packed in one show. In a dinner and dance format, this season offering is set to be performed sometime in September.

PBT will end their season with their crowd pleaser. “Nutcracker” is a tradition that is hard to resist. It not only serves as a ballet that ushers in the holiday spirit, it also serves as PBT’s advocacy project. With a cast of 100 dancers, it is able to educate young dancers from different schools regarding the remarkable discipline of ballet.

With a renewed passion for their advocacy, PBT will try to keep their fire burning for their advocacies. As of date they are scheduled to go on a local tour including Legaspi, Bicol, and Bacolod. The number of tour dates are increasing in number as we speak. The Company is also scheduled to go on an international tour this coming October to select cities in the United States of America.

Much has been accomplished but more is to be achieved. PBT is excited to engage with a wider range of audiences this 2024. A RESIDENT COMPANY OF THE CULTURAL CENTER OFTHE PHILIPPINES

CONTACT : (02) 632 8848 | (0912) 945 5151 | (0949) 325 2545 | (0995) 158 0538 | secretariat@pbt.ph

Puerto Princesa: A Paradise and Sports Hub

Puerto Princesa City, which forms part of the Philippines’ Last Frontier, is first on the list of ideal destinations of travelers, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers. With a good number of sports tournaments being held in the city, it is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines.”

Unstoppable. Phenomenal. Unbreakable. That’s what Puerto Princesa is as it plays host to world-class sports activities such as marine events like kite-boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana-boat ride, tube riding and hookah diving. The city also regularly hosts the “Motocross Masters of Asia.” the Philippine leg of the FIM UAM Asian Motocross Series, Puerto Princesa International Motocross Grand Prix, Thai Riders, Pinoy Riders, Mountain Bike XC Challenge, and Boxing Eve “Hamon sa Puerto Princesa”

Puerto Princesa understands that sports and tourism are interrelated and complementary driving forces for the promotion and sustainable economic development of the city as an attractive tourism destination. It continues to boost its tourist arrivals by hosting and organizing more sporting events.

The city is blessed with natural resources and landscape to hold excellent mass-participation events such as triathlons and marathons, mountain bike and motor cross races, beach volleyball, and other water sports competitions.

“Talagang naka-project na ang Puerto Princesa sa sports tourism. Syempre yung hinahabol nating sports tourism yung mayroong international flavor,” City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron said.

Mega sports events such as Ironman and dragon boat festival can be catalysts for tourism development in Puerto Princesa if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic, cultural, and social benefits.

IRONMAN 70.3 PUERTO PRINCESA-ASIA TRI-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

The second year of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa - Asia Tri-Club Championship, the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and strength, capped off the Philippines' triathlon season. It was successfully held in Puerto Princesa on November 12.

A total of 523 foreign and Filipino triathletes from 38 countries participated in the amazing race. Satar Salem (4 hours, 22 minutes, and 25 seconds) and Leyann Ramo (5 hours, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds) both of Tri SND Barracuda dominated the top overall age group for the male and female categories, respectively.

China’s Junyu Cao finished the race in second place at 4:23.13 while Dutch Olympian Eric Van der Linden rounded off the top three finishers in the male category with 4:24.41. Ramo’s teammate Lyllian Grace Banzon trailed her at second place in 5:29.23 while American Catherine Wood completed the top three in the women’s side with the time of 5:36.26.

Tri SND Barracuda of Lanao del Norte netted the country’s top triathlon squad a whopping P500,000 purse put up by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.

The competition was divided into three segments: a 1.9-kilometer swim in Puerto Princesa Baywalk, a 90-kilometer bike ride through the city’s southern part, and a 21.1-kilometer run. The grueling course covered 113.0 kilometers, or 70.3 miles.

City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and spectators for their support for Ironman 70.3. He also showed confidence that the competition will be successfully held again in the city next year as more local and foreign delegates are expected to attend.

THIRD LEGENDS RIDE 2023

The city understands that one of the most popular ways to experience a destination is through a sports event. It allows sports enthusiasts as well as tourists to better engage with local people, nature, and culture.

That happened when about 200 local and visiting riders participated in the 3rd Legends Ride 2023 held on November 18 in Puerto Princesa. The sports activity is part of the successful Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2023.

From the starting point at Caltex Junction 3, the riders of different groups from all over the country, led by the Tamilok Motorcycle Group, marched together. The other participants were the Big Bikes, Palawan Street Monkeys, Himass Motorcycle Group/Hijos, United Sports Bike of Palawan (USP) and others on small bikes.

The route took the legend riders to Puerto Princesa landmarks such as the Montible Junction, Napsan at the Villa Francesca Resort in Simpocan, the Tala Beach Resort and straight to the Tennis Covered Court of the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, inside Balayong People’s Park.

“Thank you very much for bringing the Legends Ride to our city. Because you enjoyed it, you will definitely come back here. You are always welcome here in Puerto Princesa City,” said City Mayor Bayron at the fellowship dinner at the Tennis Covered Court as he congratulated the organizers, riders, guests, and sponsors for the successful holding of the Legends Ride 2023.

Jun Diagono, president of the National Federation of Motorcycles said they are very happy with the success of Legends Ride 2023. He set two goals in going to Puerto Princesa City: first was to unite all the big bikes clubs in the Philippines; and second, to invite various groups to the National Motorcycle Convention on April 26-27, 2024, at the Subic Bay Convention Center.

Diagono also convinced Puerto Princesa City bike legend Edward Butch Chase to hold the national convention in the city next year. He also promised to bring LMFI’s 54-member bike clubs to participate in the upcoming event, including the Federation of Bikes Club based in Mindanao.

At the awarding, the youngest rider was Blu Andre Rausa, 19 years old; and the oldest rider was Bob Del Rosario, 74 years old. The Most Organized Group is Evo Riders Club Philippines and Biggest Group is Palawan Street Monkeys. A Special Citation was given to Philip Dulatas as the overall chair of the event, and a Certificate of Greatest Appreciation for the support of William Genato, Naj Abdul, and Elroy John “Clink: Hagedorn. The Living legend award was given to Edward Butch Chase.

The other participating groups were the Legends Ride are Binuang, GBC, Bandits, Baghawi Rider Club, Bundakan Motorcycle Club and Widows Son Masonic Riders Association.

2ND INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2023

The 2nd International Dragon Boat Festival 2023, held on November 19, attracted teams from Chinese Taipei, Manila, Cebu and Siargao which competed in the just-concluded 200-meter event. From this series of international activities, it has been proven that it is possible to raise the level of programs and activities in Puerto Princesa.

Strength, strategy, paddling speed, and teamwork were the advantages of the 'paddlers' who won the championship in the final competition. They showed the audience a breath-taking fight. Everyone wants to get away and no one wants to be left behind. So even on a sunny day, the applause and screams from the audience were loud and clear.

In the Women’s Category, the Alliance of Masters from Manila won the championship; 1st runner-up is the Philippine Titans – Manila; Fire Dragons A is 2nd runner-up – Manila; and Rampage is 3rd runner-up – Manila.

In the Men’s Category, Mr. Canoe from Chinese Taipei won the championship. Followed by Philippine Titans in second place, Dagun Pilipinas A in third place and Alliance of Masters in fourth place.

The battle in the Mixed Category was also uneventful where the Siargao Dragons from Surigao del Norte proved that they deserve to be champions. The Alliance of Masters placed second; Hongkong China Canoe took third place followed by SAG-1 from Manila in fourth place.

In the Masters Category where those aged 40 and above were given the opportunity to show their skills, the Sugbo Mighty Dragons from Cebu became champions; followed in second place by the Alliance of Masters; Rampage in third place; and Blue Phoenix from Manila in fourth place.

Praise and admiration were showered on the leadership of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation, or PCKDF, for taking the lead in organizing the international sports event in the city.

Also heavily praised were the efforts shown by Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron in the tremendous success achieved by the municipal government for the competition.

“It was not easy but we know that we can win these big international events of ours. Of course with the support of department heads, city hall employees and the citizens who are there to support what we do. And even the organizations that trust us for big events. I am very grateful,” said City Mayor Bayron. “Please also expect that there are many more activities to look forward to that will definitely make the city recognized by the whole world not only for its eco-tourism wealth but also to become famous as the Sports Tourism Capital of the Philippines!”

 

Feeling FOMO? Join the new #DewZeroSugarGenwith Niana and James, and don’t miss out on the Mountain Dew Bangis ng Zero!

 

 

In a world where we're all about living our best lives and seeking healthier options, Mountain Dew Zero proudly introduces Mountain Dew Zero Sugar to keep you from missing out on excitement and adventure! Join the #DewZeroSugarGen movement and embody the Bangisng Zero with Mountain Dew Zero Sugar!

 

Just like your favorite influencers Niana Guerrero and James Reid, you don't have to compromise on fun and flavor when you choose a  zero sugar lifestyle. With Mountain Dew Zero Sugar, you get to enjoy the same refreshing taste of Mountain Dew, without the sugar! It's a thirst quencher that retains the bold, citrusy kick and the exhilarating rush that Dew lovers adore, NOW with zero sugar! 

 

Break the mundane and unleash the adventurer inside you with Mountain Dew’s latest variant! With more people becoming health-conscious, Mountain Dew Zero Sugar is the answer for those who crave the flavorful fizz of Mountain Dew minus the guilt of sugar intake. 

 

Not only could Mountain Dew Zero fuel up a boring ol’ day, but it is also your barkada’s newest member. Gather up your crew, because with Mountain Dew Zero, you’re in for a good time with friends!  

 

With the launch of this new product, Mountain Dew adopts a fresh look and aesthetic, drawing inspirationfrom the Y2K era, aligning perfectly with the zesty vibes that resonate with the Gen Z spirit. It’s a blast from the past with a futuristic twist! In spite of its trendy modern aesthetic, it still offers a nostalgic nod to those who remember the Y2K era, creating a unique blend that bridges the generation gap.

 

So, don't be the last to hop aboard the zero-sugar train! Mountain Dew Zero Sugar is now available in supermarkets and convenience stores in GMA and select provinces, as well as online through Shopee or Lazada. Embrace #DewZeroSugarGen and savor the Bangis ng Zero today!

 

You dew you! Grab yourself a bottle, and indulge in the delicious, Mountain Dew ZERO Sugar experience. Share your Mountain Dew Zero Sugar moments with us using our hashtags: #MountainDewPH #DewZeroSugarGen#BangisNgZero. Don't forget to tag us @mountaindewphas you sip, savor, and share the zero-sugar goodness!

 

 

 

 

Rex Education takes home awards at 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal, 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards

Rex Education was recently recognized at the 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal and the 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA).

The Quezon Gawad Parangal is held annually in October as part of the local government’s celebration of the city’s founding. The 2023 awards ceremony recognized individuals and institutions who were exemplary in the fields of social work, environment and sanitation, law and justice, business and entrepreneurship, and science and technology.

Rex Education was among the 15 individuals and institutions recognized at this year’s iteration of the prestigious event. The 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal took place on October 25 at the PETA Theater Center.

The selection panel of Quezon City department heads, previous award winners, and respected professionals from various sectors conferred the award to REX for its prominent dedication to educating the masses through literature. The local government also cited REX’s pioneering work in the educational publishing industry, particularly through Rex Book Store, Inc. (RBSI).

RBSI’s contributions to education publishing include learning materials encompassing early childhood education, basic education, high school, tertiary, law, and post-collegiate materials. RBSI takes pride in its extensive network of 24 branches located across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This only further affirms REX’s mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. To be the choice learning companion of Filipino learners and to be recognized by the communities REX serves, are a joy and honor.

Four of REX’s published works were also recently recognized at the 45th CMMA. The CMMA is an annual ceremony that pays tribute to individuals and organizations that produce values-filled content through print, broadcast, and social media. The CMMA pre-announced winners virtually on October 27.

REX and Catechetical Media Network (CMN-Asia, Inc.) bagged the Best Children’s Magazine with the publication “Backpack.” Meanwhile, REX and CMN-Asia’s “Crossroads” won in the Best Youth Magazine category.

“Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin (Marketing Our Local Products)” by Allan Alejo Jr., published by REX and CMN-Asia, was recognized as Best Editorial Cartoon. “Si Nelia, Si Marta, at Si Maria” by Felix C. Alcantara, published by REX and CMN-Asia, was acknowledged as Best Comic Story.

These citations further fuel REX's drive and dedication to producing quality learning materials that can inspire spirituality and values among Filipino children. REX always endeavors to contribute to the development of the whole learner— one who is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and values-oriented.

In light of these accolades, REX remains inspired to constantly improve and strive for excellence— para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

 

iQor Qares Launches ‘Opening Doors to Education’ School Supply Donation

 

iQor Qares in the Philippines recently donated school bags and school supplies to elementary schools as part of an initiative to empower young students and create awareness about the importance of education. iQor Qares Philippines Foundation is a nonprofit charitable organization that supports iQor employees, their families, and their communities in need of financial assistance due to life-altering or catastrophic events.

The board of directors of iQor Qares Philippines Foundation and the steering committee worked together to gather donations from employees and enlisted the assistance of the senior leadership and human resources teams to pack the school bags. The administrative team delivered the school supplies, including notebooks, pencils, dictionaries, whiteboards, markers, modeling clay, rulers, and protractors, to the following schools:

• Angeles City, Pampanga – Cutcut Elementary School

• Mabalacat, Pampanga – Monicayo Elementary School

• Santa Rosa City, Laguna – Macabling Elementary School

• Dasmariñas City, Cavite – Paliparan 3 Relocation Site through the Kristong Hari Parish

“It was a wonderful experience having not only our senior leaders from the Philippines take part but also our chief operations officer and the other country leads from Trinidad, Colombia, and India all lend a hand to pack 500 school bags for distribution here,” said Kevin Murphy, vice president of operations. “Seeing the impact iQor Qares has had on so many really puts a smile on my face, and our team values what our organization is doing for employees and our community at the same time.”

Since early 2023, iQor Qares has provided financial assistance to iQor employees in the Philippines who have faced life-altering events and hardships. The organization also believes in giving back to the communities in which iQor operates, especially focusing on supporting public elementary school students and addressing the challenges many children face in accessing quality education.

“By rolling up their sleeves and actively engaging in the event, senior leadership exemplified the very essence of being an iQorian by setting a tangible and inspiring example for all employees. Their presence and participation sent a clear message that the company's values are not just words on paper but deeply ingrained in our actions,” said James Down, senior director of

operations.

“The ‘Opening Doors to Education’ project reflects our commitment to making education accessible and inspiring students to prioritize their learning. By offering school supplies, the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families who struggle to afford basic educational materials. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for students to build their confidence and self-esteem. We hope that this project will inspire more people to contribute and initiate similar projects, ultimately creating a positive impact on education in the regions where iQor operates,” said Fleurette Navarro, chief people officer at iQor and chairperson of iQor Qares Philippines Foundation.

For more information or to donate, visit iQorQares.com. iQor Qares welcomes both one-time and recurring credit card donations from individuals worldwide. Additionally, iQor employees in the United States and the Philippines have the option to enroll in payroll donations. Every contribution is sincerely appreciated and plays a meaningful role in fulfilling the iQor Qares mission.

iQor is a value-driven global business process outsourcing organization committed to creating rewarding experiences and human connections. Employees enjoy flexible work-in-office and work-at-home positions. iQor has 17 contact centers in the Philippines archipelago spread across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit https://apply.iqor.com.

CAPTION

Kevin Murphy, Vice President of Operations at iQor, shares smiles with the students of Monicayo Elementary School in Mabalacat, Pampanga, as they receive school bags and supplies from the iQor Qares Foundation.

iQor employees join iQor Qares Foundation’s “Opening Doors to Education” project school supplies drive in Pampanga, Laguna and Cavite

V1BE Is Taking “Good Vibes” To A Whole New Level this October

Celebrate booze, beats, and arts and culture—all in one place!

Cebu City, Cebu—Are you ready for Cebu’s largest Oktoberfest-inspired party of the year? V1BE Booze and Arts Festival is coming to the city on October 27, 2023, at the SM Seaside City Cebu (Official) Concert Grounds. This event, organized by L Squared Productions, offers many fun activities celebrating the best of both German and Cebuano festivities.

“As an Oktoberfest celebration, V1BE will be home to various alcohol and liquor brands catering to different segments. We are also featuring some of the local music industry's biggest names. All of these together make going to V1BE a whole ‘vibe’ in itself,” said one of the head organizers.

The representative from L Squared Productions also shared that V1BE’s immersive and engaging experiences inside the venue make it unique. So here’s a sneak peek inside the V1BE  Booze and Arts Festival 2023 that you don’t want to miss.

Booze + Eats: A Toast for Fun

It’s not going to be an Oktoberfest without booze. So, a themed and well-curated selection of food choices, beer, and other liquor will be available in V1BE. V1BE festivities will also feature authentic and local booze favorites for Cebuanos to enjoy.

Bring the Live Beats In

Taking the festival to another level of fun means letting the music take center stage.

V1BE will be headlined by the country’s finest artists— from Rico Blanco Rico Blanco, Shanti Dope , Urbandub , 6cyclemind, Chocolate Factory, Agaw Agimat, and Gracenote, to a new wave of artistry from Zild, Dilaw, Sunkissed Lola, to Hey June!.

Awesome DJs are also set to hype the party with more cool beats.

Arts and Culture in the Mix

Wait, there’s more! V1BE is a mix of experiences for all, aiming to differentiate itself versus other music festivals out there. 

“We want our customers to go to V1BE not solely because of the drinks, music, or experiences. We want our guests to go because it’s a vibe they don’t want to miss out on,” added one of the organizers.

Catch the Vibe, Join the V1BE

Play beer pong and other carnival games with your friends. Take a snap at all thematic installations, like V1BE astronauts, inflatables, and dedicated Instagrammable spots. Take home limited edition t-shirts to commemorate the fun event. Win a photo op with your favorite artists. Relax with your drink at air conditioned tents if you’re an SVIP+ ticketholder. And enjoy other exciting activities only at the V1BE Booze and Arts Festival.

V1BE partners with Ticket2Me for more ticketing fun

V1BE has recently announced its partnership with Ticket2Me, the country’s only fully digital, end-to-end ticketing company that can serve both live and online events. 

This year, Ticket2Me has welcomed Enrique Gil as its Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and new investor, cementing its position in the industry as a fast-rising platform for all ticketing-related needs.

“We’re excited to work with Ticket2Me to take V1BE to greater heights,” L-Squared added. “We wanted to expand our distribution channels and reach more markets, something that Ticket2Me brings to the table”.

What are you waiting for? Get your V1BE tickets now! Visit v1be.beetze.com or Ticket2Me for more details. Check out ticket prices and all the perks you can get throughout the V1BE experience.