METROBANK-SUPPORTED MOLECULAR LABORATORY FOR COVID-19 TESTING INAUGURATED: LARGEST IN THE COUNTRY

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman Senator Richard Gordon hand a plaque to GT Foundation president and Federal Land chairperson Alfred Ty (center) and Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobreña (left) to recognize the Php18 million donation of Metrobank and GT Capital Holdings to construct and equip the country’s largest molecular laboratory at the former PRC Headquarters in Port Area Manila on June 27.

On June 27, the country inaugurated its largest molecular laboratory capable of detecting COVID-19 and other contagious diseases at the former Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Headquarters in Port Area Manila. Through the initiatives of the Philippine Red Cross, the project was partly funded by Metrobank and GT Capital Holdings through a PhP 18 million donation, coursed through its corporate social responsibility arm Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) and Ty family’s GT Foundation (GTFI). The donation went for the construction and equipping the facility with two automated extraction machines for testing of samples. With additional contributions from the Australian Embassy and the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII), the laboratory has an overall capacity to test 14,000 samples a day.

The ceremonies were led by PRC chairman Senator Richard Gordon, Department of Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, Inter-Agency Task Force Deputy Implementer Undersecretary Vivencio Dizon, Australian Ambassador Steven Robinson AO, GTFI president and Federal Land chairman Alfred Ty, MBFI president Aniceto Sobrepeña and FFCCCII president Henry Bon Liong.

“We have been working hard in supporting various initiatives to address and combat the effects of the pandemic since the start of the lockdown. We advocate and support the conduct of “Test, Trace, and Treat” or T3 in order to identify the various factors in the development and mitigation of the spread of virus which could lead in flattening the curve," said Mr. Ty.

The laboratory will also go a long way in ensuring early detection and efficient treatment of other contagious and deadly diseases such as cancer, human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis, dengue, malaria, tuberculosis, Zika virus among others.

The donation was part of the P220 million contribution by Metrobank Group and GT Capital Holdings to fund and support efforts to combat the pandemic and help those in need. The amount was allocated for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPEs) to benefit healthcare and security frontliners; support for the production of RT-PRC testing kits through the UP National Institutes of Health; “Project Ugnayan” led by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation; distribution of meals and food packs to underprivileged families; construction and equipping of molecular laboratories for the testing of cases in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Red Cross, and Ayala Group; and Go Negosyo’s Project ARK (Antibody Rapid test Kits) of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Foundation. Just recently, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation donated 30 VIOS units for the mobility of healthcare frontliners of DOH and local government hospitals.

Metrobank is the country’s premier universal bank and has one of the largest domestic networks with over 950 branches and over 2,300 automated teller machines (ATMs) nationwide, and over 30 foreign branches, subsidiaries and representative offices. For inquiries, please contact Corporate Communications Department at 8-857-5526, or Investor Relations Department at 8-857-9783 and investor.relations@metrobank.com.ph. Or call the Metrobank 24/7 Customer Hotline at 8-870-0700, or log on to www.metrobank.com.ph. For provincial areas, call toll-free 1-800-1888-5775.

GOLDILOCKS : Back To Baon

We are back to reality, back to baon!

As the "New Normal" is slowly accepted all over the country, eager Filipinos are finally allowed to go back to work given they follow specific social distancing guidelines.

Along with the return to the workforce is a return to bringing packed meals, that is why Goldilocks, the country's number one bakeshop is proud to introduce the newest additions to their acclaimed PinoyDeli meals!

Indulge in delicious pre-packed meals such as Beef Caldereta, Kare-Kare, Boneless Chicken, Dinuguan, Korean Beef Bulgogi, and Chicken Teriyaki, all of which come with a side of white rice and simply need to be heated in a microwave to enjoy!

Grab these and other goodies at select Goldilocks Full Stores in the Philippines, namely; Shaw, Pasong Tamo, Robinsons Manila, SM 1, SM Valenzuela, SM Mall of Asia, Gatchalian Paranaque, GMA Kamuning, Alphaland Southgate, Marikina Concepcion, Market Market, Espana, SM Megamall, SM Bicutan, SM San Lazaro, SM Masinag and various Bakeshops which include; Rosario Pasig, Parang Marikina, Cogeo, Antipolo 1, Tanay, Montalban, Waltermart North EDSA, Waltermart Makati, 11th Ave. Caloocan, JP Rizal, Waterfun Taguig, Masangkay, Scout Borromeo, Casimiro Las Pinas

For more information, you may follow 

@GoldilocksPH on 

Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, or 

visit the official Goldilocks website at www.goldilocks.com.ph.

Get up to 50% off on your favorite grocery items and essentials during 7-Eleven’s birthday week!

Another #711Day is coming up, and this time it’s all about YOU—their loyal customers!

Living in unprecedented times is tough, but 7-Eleven hopes to celebrate by giving back to the community and offering exclusive promos and discounts up to 50% off on over 150 grocery items.

“We prepared our big 7-Eleven birthday week with our customers in mind,” says Jose Victor Paterno, President and CEO of Philippine Seven Corporation. “It’s their celebration as much as it is ours. Giving promos and discounts on basic essentials — it’s our own little way to help them save during this time.”

From July 1 to July 14, soaps, deodorant, detergents, batteries, and other select essentials will be 30% off! While you’re at it, make sure to grab your favorite chocolates, biscuits, cookies, juices, and other snacks—they’ll be at 30% off too.

Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, enjoy an even bigger discount at 50% off from July 7 to 11! 

Complete your meal with a FREE 12oz. Gulp for every purchase of 1pc. Crunch Time Fried Chicken from July 9 to 11—or better yet, celebrate with the whole family at home and get a FREE 1 pc. Fried Chicken for every purchase of 1 Crunch Time Crunch Carrier of 6pcs chicken from July 6 to 11 via CLiQQ app!

For the complete list of sale items click here - https://www.7-eleven.com.ph/whatsnew/711-day-2020

7-Eleven values your health and safety above anything else. They would like to remind everyone to follow the safety protocols implemented in-store, such as proper wearing of masks and physical distancing, at all times. For a safer experience, hand sanitizers are placed around the store for customers to use.

Customers can safely opt for a cashless payment method via CLiQQ app or GCash, available in all 7-Eleven stores.

No matter the situation, 7-Eleven is always ready to serve in your time of need. Drop by any 7-Eleven store nationwide this 7-Eleven Day!

Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter for more information.

Grab Celebrates 8th Anniversary by Fulfilling 120 Requests and Wishes of Filipinos During the Pandemic

Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading everyday app, celebrated its 8th anniversary in June by giving back and helping fulfill the requests of Filipinos to help them adapt to the new normal.  Throughout the years, Grab has expanded its services to continuously provide safe and convenient access to everyday necessities. Today, GrabCar, GrabFood, GrabExpress, GrabPay, and GrabMart continue to give Filipinos access to their essential needs despite the limitations that the country will continue to face as we transition to the new normal.

As a means of giving back, and reminding Filipinos that Grab has their backs, the company partnered with Nestle, Pringles and Kellogg’s, San Miguel Brewery, Ginebra San Miguel, San Miguel Foods, Lazada, Heineken, Unilever and P&G and launched its Sagot Kita campaign, showing how Grab now— more than ever— proves to be Filipinos’ partner in navigating through life in the new normal. Throughout the month of June, Grab granted over 100 wishes, big and small, of things Filipinos miss the most and surprising them with experiences they wish for— from snacks that used to be part of their daily routines, to milestones and occasions they missed celebrating, or even requests that extend help to others. To these wishes, Grab says, “Sagot kita.”

Using Grab as a means to help others

Filipinos prove that the spirit of helping takes centerstage when the opportunity arises. Instead of satisfying personal whims, many wishes were made for others— family, friends, or neighbors that need a little bit of help to get by during these trying times.

Jan de los Reyes has found a true friend in Jellie Tiu. When Jellie heard about Grab’s campaign, she used the opportunity to help her friend and her 10-month old daughter. Losing her job as an OFW after the lockdown, Jan is left scrambling for ways to keep providing for her child. With the help of Grab, baby supplies and milk were delivered safely via GrabExpress.

Through thick or thin, Lony Marvillo stands by her husband's side. She provides for them both by operating a small sari-sari store, as her husband is no longer fit to work and is in need of dialysis. Instead of wishing for financial assistance, Lony instead wished for more supplies to sell in her store to sustain their livelihood. Her small sari-sari store waa replenished with the help of GrabMart.

Having a soft spot for animals, Manila Santos went ahead and wished for supplies for the staff and animals of PAWS. Some of the staff were locked in the shelter during quarantine, and were in need of supplies. Animal food donation also dwindled, and a little help would go a long way. Delivered by GrabExpress, PAWS was able to receive groceries for the staff, and food for the animals.

Grab brings back experiences Filipinos missed the most

So many restrictions brought us realizations that there are experiences we can no longer do like before. To bring delight to this mood-dampening thought, Grab made ways for people to bring back these experiences one way or another.

Social distancing doesn’t allow much for close contact, and Greg Cendana expressed that he misses eating out with his girlfriend Iyrelle Mauricio. Granting his wish through GrabFood, a virtual pizza date was set up to make up for the distance.

Mary Ann Mangalindan’s weekend routine with her husband was to stop by Max’s after a grocery run. Bringing back that favorite weekend experience, GrabFood says “Sagot kita” by sending over their favorite Max’s items for her and her husband to share. 

Julie Vega is a Grab delivery partner who is an independent parent to her only daughter. With her income just enough for their daily needs, they don’t often get the chance to enjoy their favorite food. But thanks to GrabFood, mother and child enjoyed a sumptuous meal of lechon and pancit palabok.

Life as we know it may not return to how it was for a long time. But with the help of Grab, adjusting to the new normal is made easier and safer with its services:

●     GrabCar that ensures the safe transport from one location to another

●     GrabPay that enables contactless and cashless transactions

●     GrabExpress that helps individuals and merchants deliver goods to others

●     GrabMart that allows customers to conveniently purchase essentials without the need to go out and,

●     GrabFood that delivers meals to customers in the safety of their homes

Experience what Grab has to offer and avail of over 100 promos in celebration of its 8th anniversary. Make life in the new normal a little bit better with the help of Grab. Kami muna ang bahala. Visit https://www.grab.com/ph/featured-blog/grabsagotkita/ for more details.

About Grab

Grab is the leading super app in Southeast Asia, providing everyday services that matter most to consumers. Today, the Grab app has been downloaded onto over 185 million mobile devices, giving users access to over 9 million drivers, merchants and agents. Grab offers the widest range of on-demand transport services in the region, in addition to food, package, grocery delivery services, mobile payments and financial services across 339 cities in eight countries.

Teleperformance revolutionizes the Work-at-Home environment with TP Cloud Campus

Teleperformance, a global leader in digitally integrated business services, recently announced a revolutionary new global operating model, the Teleperformance Cloud Campus, an innovative solution for enabling the ‘new normal’ work-at-home (WAH) environment.

Prior to the pandemic, as part of its future-of-work development process, Teleperformance was already designing and testing an enhanced model for improving customer experience, client results, and employee well-being and development through socially connected, virtual teams. The Teleperformance Cloud Campus was specifically designed to provide a remote, socially enriched working environment, allowing companies to easily expand their business and deliver superior customer experiences through Teleperformance’s unique, cloud-centric model.

Home-based interaction experts can now work from anywhere in the world while remaining connected virtually to their Teleperformance team through one of their Cloud Campus Hubs. These centralized command centers keep remote agents connected and engaged while providing an opportunity for clients to interact with a dispersed workforce. ​The highly functional design blends proprietary Teleperformance technology, analytics, and process excellence (TAP) with best-of-breed technologies to form a uniquely efficient global solution.

The operating capabilities of Teleperformance Cloud Campus includes virtual talent acquisition, training, development, coaching, team building, learning, client interaction, quality control, and data security management, as well as emotional well-being and rich social interaction for employees. Gamification is utilized for employee fun, socialization, and education as part of the new Teleperformance ‘campus life’.

For Teleperformance, protecting sensitive information is key, which is why their Cloud Campus solution ensures that data remains secure within remote environments. Their Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) Architecture is PCI Certified and other security measures include multi-factor authentication, device lockdown and the usage of virtual sessions to ensure that no data is stored locally.

Among the many benefits of Teleperformance Cloud Campus is having access to a broader workforce, with its ability to reach skilled interaction experts around the world, enhanced business resilience, sustainability and diversity, and the flexibility to meet changing demands as companies can easily scale up or down based on business needs.

Teleperformance Cloud Campus is available to support all industries, geographies, and applications and is currently deployed globally in a diverse set of industry sectors including e-commerce, utilities, telecom, and healthcare – several of which were implemented before the Covid-19 outbreak. The company now has more than 200,000 employees working from home worldwide, i.e. 80% of all active employees. An increasing number of clients and Teleperformance WAH employees will continue transitioning to this unique delivery model this year.

Teleperformance Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Daniel Julien said, “To be clear, conventional facilities continue to play an important role in our operational delivery strategy. As the global industry leader and a top employer worldwide, we constantly re-envision alternative work and delivery models that can benefit our clients, their customers and, of course, our employees. We developed, tested, and began implementing the Teleperformance Cloud Campus with select clients last year. It is a fantastic model for both clients and for the emotional well-being and professional growth of our work-at-home staff. Since COVID-19 hit the world, we have rapidly transitioned 80% of our global workforce to a work-at-home model to align with the ‘new normal’. Teleperformance Cloud Campus orchestrates the delivery of work-at-home in a precise and effective manner, to best serve our clients and best care for our more than 200,000 strong remote employees - both now and in the future.”

With Work-at-Home solutions in high demand, Teleperformance Cloud Campus is an efficient and effective model for hiring, training and managing remote teams while ensuring exceptional, consistent customer experiences.​

“Businesses today are looking for resiliency and a partner that can help them adapt to the rapid changes of today. With many companies looking at work-at-home as part of their strategy, Teleperformance Cloud Campus gives them the agility their business needs while ensuring the safety of employees, which is of utmost importance now and most certainly in the future,” shared Mike Lytle, Chief Operating Officer of Teleperformance Philippines.

To learn more about Teleperformance Philippines and the Teleperformance Cloud Campus, you may visit their website at www.teleperformance.ph/en-us.

ABOUT TELEPERFORMANCE

Teleperformance (TEP – ISIN: FR0000051807 – Reuters: ROCH.PA – Bloomberg: TEP FP), a leading global group in digitally integrated business services, serves as a strategic partner to the world’s largest companies in many industries. It offers a One Office support services model combining three wide, high-value solution families: customer experience management, back-office services and business process knowledge services. These end-to-end digital solutions guarantee successful customer interaction and optimized business processes, anchored in a unique, comprehensive high tech, high touch approach.

The Group's 331,000 employees, based in 80 countries, support billions of connections every year in over 265 languages and 170 markets, in a shared commitment to excellence as part of the “Simpler, Faster, Safer” process. This mission is supported by the use of reliable, flexible, intelligent technological solutions and compliance with the industry’s highest security and quality standards, based on Corporate Social Responsibility excellence. In 2019, Teleperformance reported consolidated revenue of €5,355 million (US$ 6 billion, based on €1 = $1.12) and net profit of €400 million.

Teleperformance began operations in the Philippines in 1996 and has grown to become a preferred offshore contact center outsourcing option. The company employs over 47,500 people in the country and operates over 30,000 workstations in 21 business sites located across Metro Manila, Antipolo, Baguio, Bacolod, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and Davao.

From 2012 to 2018, Teleperformance received the Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Contact Center Outsourcing Service Provider of the Year Award for its significant performance in revenue management, market share, capabilities, and overall contribution to the contact center industry. In addition, Teleperformance Philippines was awarded in 2017 as Outstanding Employer and Outstanding Community Project of the Year by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), the Top Employer of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards, and the Outstanding Volunteer by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA).

This 2020, Teleperformance Philippines was again certified as a Great Place to Work® and is the only organization in the country to receive this certification from the Great Place to Work® Institute for three years in a row. This year, Teleperformance celebrates its 24th year of continued excellence and leadership in the country. This milestone highlights the company’s commitment to steadily provide the best employment experience for Filipinos, proactively support the nation’s IT-BPM sector, and uphold its socio-civic engagements to create a difference in the lives of the Philippine community.

For further information, please visit the Teleperformance website at teleperformance.ph.

3 Things I learned in Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic

    COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine period caught as us all by surprise. No one was ready or even prepared for this historical event. It has caused us fear, anger, confusion, depression, stressed and mixed emotions. How are we able to overcome all these? I bet we all have our own ways to handle this new battle. I just want to share the many things I learned in this trying times. But here are the best three things...

  That time is precious

During the Enhanced Community Quarantine, I was able to find more time to do a lot of things that I have never done before.  Firstly, I was able take care of my family with proper care. Yes, I do take care of them, but it’s different during the ECQ situation.  Since my hubby started working from home after the announcement of ECQ , I was able to wake up early in the morning and not hurry that much to prepare for his breakfast.  I usually failed to prepare good food for my husband before he goes to work and that's a shame.  This new normal that they are calling, gave me an opportunity to serve him real healthy and well prepared food on the table. We also had more family meal time together while watching movies, which we do not normally do. 

The ECQ experience brought me back to the basics of listing down important grocery or market items for faster execution.  No more wasting of time to just walking around the shop and pick whatever I see on the shelves. Avoiding people around who don’t even practice social distancing added stress on my grocery or market time. I made it a point to just go out when it’s really needed. ECQ made me schedule my grocery and market day at least once in 2 weeks time. 

I was able to continue with my urban gardening hobby.  It all started from pots and now I have a mini garden by the garage and at the rooftop.  I decided to plant edible plants like vegetables and fruits. It has supplied me with ready green leaves for my cooking.  The ECQ actually gave me a chance to re-unite with my neglected plants.

Another good part that I also appreciate during the ECQ is the availability of most of my accountability group, members and leaders. We’re able to set our regular weekly fellowships online despite our distance, despite covid-19 craze.  We believe that we should not get tired of meeting together. We continue studying God's word and praying together as a family and as disciples of Christ. I really love having our support group. It's always a refreshing moment spending time with these wonderful women of God. Thanks to our advance technology that God had provided.

The truth is, I was able to do much with my time during the ECQ, and there’s no regret about it. I was also able to pause and think things through. Realizing that time is really precious. Something that we can not win back or even turn back. 

  

  That right perspective is important

I searched for the meaning of perspective through google and it says “a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view.”  Having the right perspective helped me a lot in facing the giants in my life. This pandemic is an extra ordinary GIANT to face. I always look up and ask from the One who knows everything. I learned to let go and let God do His work. I do my part and leave everything to Him. We need to have the right perspective in life. That we have to focus on God, not on how big our problem is, but on how BIG our GOD is. 

Sharing with you what I just learned from the Sunday service with Pastor Peter Tan Chi. 

Our way of thinking affects our emotion and our emotion affects our action. We need to have the right perspective especially at times of trials and difficulties like Covid-19 pandemic.

We need to switch from our worldly perspective to GOD's perspective.

  

  That GOD is in control

The covid-19 pandemic may have caused us many troubles, not only with our financial situation, but with our psychological state, emotional stability as well as our spiritual walk.  Perhaps others would have questioned people, government and even God with the hardships that we have experienced in the past few months. But one thing I learned,  to put my trust in the Lord, as He comforts me and my family with His promises.

The covid-19 pandemic and quarantine period has brought so much changes and it must have enlightens us all that nothing is permanent, nothing is for sure to stay in this world, but there’s only one thing that is certain, that God is in control. 

There are so many things to be thankful for despite our present situation. We just need to have the right perspective in life. Realize that time is an expensive commodity. And acknowledge that God is in control.

This story is an entry to ComCo Southeast Asia’s “Write to Ignite Blogging Project”. The initiative is a response to the need of our times, as every story comes a long way during this period of crisis. Igniting and championing the human spirit, “Write to Ignite Blog Project” aims to pull and collate powerful stories from the Philippine blogging communities to inspire the nation to rise and move forward amidst the difficult situation. This project is made possible by ComCo Southeast Asia, co-presented by Eastern Communications and sponsored by Electrolux, Jobstreet and Teleperformance.

What makes me move forward? Knowing the truth God is good and He is in control.

Feel free to write your comments below. Happy reading!

World Vision keeps children’s dreams alive thru Give Hope campaign

Since the start of this year, the Philippines has been facing one great hurdle after another. Despite the gravity, Filipinos have been known to deal with problems head on.

It has been three months since the government has declared community quarantine in most cities and provinces in the Philippines. As the country continues to fight its battle against COVID-19, issues increase as more sectors of society become affected by this health crisis. One of the most pressing issues now is how to continue the learning and development of the children and youth at a time of a pandemic.

Inspiring children throughout the years

World Vision, an international Christian child-focused non-profit organization, is a firm advocate of every child’s right to education. Every year, the organization holds it’s Back to School campaign that aims to provide school kits for the most vulnerable children.

Amongst those whose lives have been changed by this initiative were the children in North Cotabato, who were forced to stay at an evacuation center due to an earthquake, and 9-year old Shane, one of the thousands of children supported by World Vision.

“This is a good relief for them,” shared a teacher who is assigned in the temporary school in North Cotabato. “It is not easy for these children to cope with their new environment but assistance like this somehow gives them hope knowing that they are not alone in this difficult journey”.

“I love going to school because I get to learn and be with my friends. I want to become a teacher someday so I can earn and buy a house for my family,” Shane said. “I was happy to receive a bag and several school supplies”.

“I’ve seen how the provision of school supplies has helped motivate the children in their studies and how this has helped encourage parents to send their children to school,” shared Gina, a community leader who volunteered in the school kit distribution facilitated by World Vision in Shane’s barangay.

Letting dreams live on this school season

Even with the postponement of face-to-face learning this school year as announced by the Department of Education, World Vision is still committed to ensuring the uninterrupted learning of the children in its partner communities by continuing its annual school kits distribution thru the Give Hope Campaign.

"What a joy it is for a child to receive school supplies in time for the opening of classes. Join us in this mission and together, let us give hope,” said World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte.

For every donation of P1,000, two kids will benefit by receiving learner’s kits that each contain a set of notebooks, writing pads, crayons, pencils, and a bag. Through the help of generous partners, World Vision hopes to reach thousands of children in their partner communities this year

To support & donate to Give Hope, please visit https://www.worldvision.org.ph/donate/school-kits/

To know more about World Vision and its programs for the most vulnerable children and communities in the Philippines, you may visit www.worldvision.org.ph

About World Vision

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, their families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by its Christian faith and values, it is dedicated to working with the world’s most vulnerable people. It serves and collaborates with all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.