This is EUr time! Here are the top reasons to join EHEF 2023!

 

It’s high time to kick start your dream to study in the EU through this year’s European Higher Education Fair (EHEF). With 85 higher education institutions and diplomatic missions participating on-ground and online from Belgium, The Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Spain, France, Italy, Hungary, The Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Finland, and Sweden, you’ll have a broad selection of schools and programs to choose from that fits best with your interests and passion.

 

Similar to previous EHEFs, this year’s fair features a hybrid format with an on-ground event on 30 September to 1 October at the East and Grand Atriums of Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City; as well as an online edition on 2 October at ehefphilippines.com and on its FB page at @ehefphilippines, where EU higher education institutions will virtually present their offerings and key programs to students and professional aspirants. 

 

Revolving on the theme, “Pathways to Excellence” the Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines and the European Union Member States’ Embassies aim to provide an immersive platform where aspirants can freely explore diverse fields of study and open global opportunities through the fair.

 

As the biggest and longest-running education fair in the country, EHEF offers a unique opportunity for Filipino students, professionals, academe, researchers, and university officials to engage directly with some of the top higher education institutions from the EU.

 

More than that, EHEF, whether on-site or online, will hold fun activities and seminars from known academics and EU university alumni. Furthermore, you can participate in language sessions from EU representatives themselves!

 

Caught your fancy? Here are more reasons why you should come to EHEF:

 

Meet and directly engage with EU education institution representatives and EU alumni

Get a chance to personally converse with exhibitors from the EU and consult various programs that can help you jumpstart your plans and land you to your dream university in the EU. Beyond that, you can also meet and greet alumni from the EU and learn firsthand the amazing things that await you.

 

Discover different courses that fit your interests and passion

In line with this year’s theme “Pathways to Excellence,” the exhibitors from the EU provide different courses that appeal to your interests! Courses ranging from business, medicine to the humanities are provided by each EU university coming to this year’s EHEF. You can directly engage with the university representatives to know more about what they offer just for you!

 

Apply for scholarships as an international student

If you’re worried about tuition fees and accommodations, EHEF will provide options! The EU universities participating in this year’s EHEF have scholarship grants just for international students. In addition, the university of your choice provides dormitory rooms as part of your enrollment.

 

At the fair, you may participate in sessions that will provide in-depth information on higher education systems, research grants, and scholarship opportunities like Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, open for students and educators alike.

 

Overall, the main goal of EHEF is to give opportunities for you to grow in your personal life and career. This is the sign to take that opportunity to pursue an education abroad and carve your own pathways to excellence.

 

EHEF is supported by the Commission on Higher Education, together with regional hubs  University of the Cordilleras (Luzon), Wesleyan University (Luzon), and Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan (Mindanao); university partners Ateneo de Manila University – European Studies Programme, De La Salle University – Manila, Holy Cross of Davao College, Lyceum of the Philippines University - Cavite, Mabalacat City College, University of the Philippines Diliman, University of Santo Tomas – Manila, and Visayas State University; professional organisations Mathematical Society of the Philippines, Philippine College of Physicians, Philippine Communication Society, Physics Society of the Philippines, and The EdukCircle; and media partners Business World Spark Up, CNN Philippines, iOrbit News Central Luzon, Rank Magazine, Seawave Magazine, Subselfie, The Philbiz News, and When In Manila.

 

Registration and entrance to the fair is free. Sign up at ehefphilippines.com or visit @EHEFPhilippines on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

 

Water Sustainability: Leading the Change at SM Supermalls

The ripple effect of the water crisis has reached every part of the globe. According to the World Wildlife Fund, some 1.1 billion people worldwide lack access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion find water scarce for at least one month of the year. Worst, two-thirds of the global population may face water shortages by 2025 and ecosystems will suffer.

As the gravity of these issues becomes increasingly apparent, several countries have taken significant steps to forge a more sustainable future for the Earth. Noteworthy examples include Singapore's water management plan and The Netherlands' intricate conservation practices.

Singapore’s Desalination Plant

        Source: https://www.pub.gov.sg/watersupply/fournationaltaps/desalinatedwater 

The Delta Works in The Netherlands was built by Rijkswaterstaat to protect the country against flooding from the North Sea. 

Source: https://www.water-technology.net/projects/delta-works-flood-netherlands/  

  

Inspiration for the Philippines

In the Philippines, a multifaceted approach has also been embraced by the public and private sectors in safeguarding and managing water resources. SM Supermalls are at the forefront of the conservation and management of water resources in its mall facilities. Its endeavors form the foundation of a more sustainable and water-secure future that the company has long been advocating.

SM's Vision: Greening the Future

SM has been recycling water since the 1990s, treating an average of 1 billion gallons of water annually in recent years, equivalent to 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In line with the SM Green Movement, SM has been continuously working towards responsible consumption and water conservation in its properties.

To illustrate, the SM Supermalls’ comfort rooms have smart fixtures to manage water flow. There are also signages in the mall that advocate wise water use. Wastewater is channeled to the malls’ sewage treatment plants that recycle an estimated total of 4 million cubic meters of water, lessening their dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses. SM did this even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.

SM Mall of Asia has been involved in various sustainability and environmental initiatives, including water recycling among others.

SM Supermalls utilizes recycled wastewater from the mall for irrigating its gardens.

SM Malls have “Save Water” signages that typically aim to create awareness about water conservation and inspire people to take simple actions to reduce their water consumption

Recently, SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio. This facility can turn collected rainwater into potable water for mall tenant use such as washing and cooking as well as dishwashing and handwashing, allowing the mall to further lessen its dependence on the freshwater supply of the Baguio community.

SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio.

The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for

Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).

SM's dedication aligns with the world’s environmental sustainability and climate action goals. Rainwater catchment basins in flood-prone areas and the rainwater filtration in SM Baguio further exemplify this commitment. These significant efforts underscore the ongoing need for sustainable practices and policies.

A Brighter Future Ahead

The journey towards sustainable water management is ongoing. SM Supermalls, through its initiatives, paves the way for a greener, more secure future. 

Learn more at SM Cares  or follow SM Supermalls on social media.

Galaxy all the way: Users share why they love Samsung for its 25th year in the Philippines

 

Looking back 25 years ago, many technological evolutions today were unimaginable. Fast forward to 2023, where digital and technological ecosystems allow us to operate efficiently, capture and create content, watch our favorite shows, and connect with the world, all in one ecosystem.

 

As a global tech leader, Samsung has been at the forefront of providing revolutionary, cutting-edge innovation. From appliances to premium mobile devices, tablets and smartwatches, Samsung has provided an unceasing commitment to creating technology that has transformed the lives of Filipinos. Here are some stories from loyal #TeamGalaxy members as they look back fondly on their very first encounter and where they are now with Samsung.

 

 

 

The OG content creation phone since the early 2010s trend

Mark started his Samsung journey in the early 2010s with the Galaxy Note2 and loved it for its large-screen viewing and gaming experience. This was quickly followed by the Samsung Edge series – the Galaxy S7 Edge for its content creation capabilities, seamless multipurpose features, and the Samsung Gear 360 camera for what we now call travel vlogs.

 

“I used the Samsung S7 Edge and Gear 360 for hiking, travel vlogs and travel photos with my friends. I practiced photography then and used both Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and Samsung Gear 360 for content creation,” he recalled.

 

Today, he is still a loyal Galaxy fan with his Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S8 and a Samsung Smart monitor M7 that can be easily integrated into Samsung DeX Mode, which allows users to have a PC-like experience by connecting their gadgets to an external device, Mark now aims to complete the Samsung ecosystem. “I could use it for work on accounting and bookkeeping, and quickly consume content by switching to social media. Hopefully, in the future, I will also make my life easier at home by buying the SmartThings products by Samsung.”

 

The go-to smartphone for everything – life, work, and entertainment

From a high school student amazed by the release of the Samsung A300 in the early 2000s to upgrading to a Galaxy Z Fold3, Timmy couldn’t help but reminisce about the first time she saw one of the first flip phones.“The first phone that I had was the first flip when I was in high school. My dad went out of the country and flip phones back then were first more popular internationally, so I got it from him.”

Now that she’s a wife and a mom, Timmy expressed how Samsung has definitely become her go-to gadget for everything, “Everything that I need is just in my pocket. Checking schedules, watching movies and playing games– wala na ‘kong ibang hahanapin pa. I have everything in just one phone.”

 

Meanwhile, for Narah who is an entertainment enthusiast, her mobile phone is her ultimate entertainment hub.  She remembers her first Samsung phone as a hand-me-down Samsung SGH-G600 from her uncle nine years ago. “At first, it was really just to call and text my mom when she had to go to work. But the phone did so much more – I could listen to music and take photos, which was just so amazing for me.”

 

Having fallen in love with the brand, she now has a full-fledged Samsung device collection - the Samsung A71, WB350F Camera and the Samsung S23 Ultra that completed Narah’s ultimate K-pop fan concert kit. “I was convinced by my favorite K-Pop group to buy the phone and so far, I have been using it for different events and shows, making vlogging easier and more compact.”  She also enjoys how easily she can illustrate with the use of the S-Pen, “I have done illustrations and drawings with it, especially with the use of the S-Pen.”

 

Durability that is proven and tested

Mike, a full-time BPO employee and K-pop enthusiast, reminisced about getting to know Samsung in 2013. “I have always been a fan, especially when the Galaxy Note3 was released. I was stunned when I saw their ad for that. I have always dreamed of having one.” he said

 

Today, Mike has successfully achieved his goal of owning not only a Samsung mobile phone but four Galaxy devices: Galaxy Buds2, Galaxy Watch5, Galaxy A52S 5G and Galaxy S23 Ultra. Aside from the screen resolution, performance and integration between the ecosystem, he’s also ecstatic about the durability of each Galaxy device, “I am a heavy user. That’s why I appreciate the quality of these devices.”

Are you #TeamGalaxy or planning to be one? Samsung is inviting you to celebrate its 25th anniversary with amazing deals!

 

Unfold a world of greater entertainment and productivity, get discounts for up to ₱12,000 for a Galaxy Z Fold4 1TB, 256, and 512GB variants and a free random branded accessory for the 256GB variant, or purchase a Galaxy Z Flip4 and get a ₱10,000 token for 128GB and 256GB versions and additional free random branded accessory for 256GB version.

Get a free Galaxy Buds2 and Watch4 40mm worth up to ₱19,980 if you buy a Galaxy S23 Ultra, while you can get a Grip Case or Frame Case or Smart Clear View Wallet for the Galaxy S23+. You can also enjoy the free Galaxy Watch4 40mm worth ₱12,990 if you purchase any from the Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, or S21 FE Series.

You can also experience the awesomeness of the A series at a discounted price and with freebies until September 30! Buy a Galaxy A54 5G or a Galaxy A34 5G  (8GB+256GB and 8GB+128GB) to save up to ₱2,000 discount and get a free Travel Adapter. You can also get a free Samsung 128GB Memory Card when you buy a Galaxy A23 5G or a Galaxy A24 LTE! That’s not all! This is your time to pull off your fitness goal and even get up to 30% off on Galaxy Watch6 Classic (47mm, 43mm), Watch6 (44mm, 40mm), and Watch5 Pro and  50% off the Galaxy Buds2 Pro when purchased with participating Galaxy devices!

Don’t miss the chance to upgrade your Samsung experience on its 25th anniversary with special freebies until September 30!

For all offers, visit this page: https://www.samsung.com/ph/offer/online/2023/25th-anniv-sale-galaxy-devices/

 

For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/ or any authorized Samsung dealer and their online channels.

 

___________________________________________________________________________

 

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com

SM Prime explores potential partnership with Japanese firm for waste-to-fuel solutions

Leading real estate developer in Southeast Asia, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan’s GUUN Co. Ltd. to explore a potential partnership to implement waste management solutions by recycling waste paper and plastics as an alternative source of energy called ‘fluff fuel’.

Fluff Fuels are one type of RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel) which are produced from shredded and compressed plastics, papers, and fibers. These are used as fuels in cement manufacturing, paper mill companies, or power companies in Japan.

SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans T. Sy is positive that a partnership with GUUN will contribute to the waste reduction goals of the country. “Today, Japan’s waste management and recycling technology is among the most advanced in the world,” he said. “There is no better partner for SM because we do not just talk about being big, we make sure we do it; we do not talk about being environment friendly but we do take bold steps to save the environment. I am looking forward to growing with GUUN as among leaders in solving environmental issues in the Philippines.”

GUUN Co., Ltd., founded in March 2001 and headquartered in Yokohama City, Japan, piloted the production of fluff fuel from plastic waste in Inayawan, Cebu in 2014 and recently inaugurated its P200-million, 2,400-square meter waste recycling plant in Tayud, Consolacion, Cebu. 

Since then, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment has adopted GUUN’s waste-to-fuel technology as a model for advanced low-carbon technology innovation for further deployment in developing countries.

“This will be a milestone partnership for us,” GUNN Chief Executive Officer Shinji Fujieda said after the signing ceremony. "I understand very much how important waste management is for SM and for the Philippines and we look forward to more projects we can do with the properties of SM Prime.”

SM Prime’s initiatives for waste management include waste reduction and effective waste collection and segregation. Over the years, it has implemented programs such as Trash to Cash, Plastic Waste Collection, and E-Waste Collection that have contributed to reducing the total solid waste generation across its real estate portfolio. 

Through its pioneering Trash to Cash recycling market, SM Prime has collected and recycled 1.4M kg of plastics, paper, metals, and others in 2022. “We have saved 16,766 trees from the 986,222 kg of paper recycled,” SM Prime disclosed in its 2022 Integrated Report to shareholders. 

Meanwhile, SM’s Plastic Waste Collection program, a partnership with the Plastic Credit Exchange that was launched in February 2021, has accumulated 42,541kg of plastic waste from 14 mall sites. Also present in all its 83 SM Supermalls is the E-Waste Collection program for the responsible disposal of WEEE (Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment). This drive has helped process close to 7,000 kilograms of e-waste. (

SM Scholars Aspire to Share the Gift of Education

New SM scholars recently joined the contract signing event in Pasay.

 

"I desire to become an educator not just to fulfill a dream but also to be a blessing to the next generation." 

 

These inspiring words come from 18-year-old Princess Eunice Motel, an SM scholar currently pursuing her education at the Philippine Normal University. She is one of two children of Hildajane, an on-call factory re-packer, and Richard, a set man, hailing from Caloocan City. 

 

Princess' dream of becoming a teacher has been a lifelong aspiration, deeply rooted in her heart and mind since her childhood. This calling became even more pronounced when she embraced her Christian faith. 

SM Scholar and aspiring educator Princess Eunice Motel

 

"My unwavering commitment to becoming a teacher is directly inspired by the Kidz Life Ministry, a cherished initiative of our church dedicated to teaching children about God's word. I aspire to be a vessel for sharing knowledge, instilling hope, and nurturing a brighter future for the next generation," she said.

 

To pursue her dreams, Princess has chosen to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Secondary Education at the Philippine Normal University, her dream institution. "PNU is renowned for its ability to nurture exceptional teachers," she remarked. "As I aspire to become an educator, I also strive for greatness and excellence, and there's no better place to achieve that than at PNU."  

Following in her mother's footsteps, Jhona Bolinas is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education with English as her major. Born in Baliuag, Bulacan, she passed entrance exams at other universities but opted to enroll at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela due to its proximity to her family.

 

Despite considering other career paths, Jhona opted education, drawing inspiration from her mother, who is also an educator. "Watching, observing, and listening to her, I learned the basics," she shared. Driven by her love for reading and writing, she also chose to specialize in English. 

 

When asked if she plans to work abroad after graduation, Jhona keeps her options open, recognizing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. "But right now, I want to ensure that my mother enjoys a good life before making such a significant decision," she explained.  

 

Another aspiring educator is Krissa May Oquindo. Her father, a cable technician, is the family's sole breadwinner while her mother dedicates her time to caring for the family. Krissa completed her senior high school education at the Universidad de Manila. She applied to four State universities and ultimately chose to enroll at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), known for producing graduates highly sought after by employers, as per a recent survey. 

 

SM scholar Krissa May Oquindo (right) aspires to be a teacher for her family and community.

When asked about her motivation to become a teacher, Krissa responded, "Being an educator has always been my passion. From the moment I set foot on a school campus, the idea of standing in front of students and sharing knowledge excites me." She has selected Science as her major to deepen her understanding of the subject and to enlighten others about it. 

 

Krissa has no plans to teach abroad. She believes that while there is demand for teachers overseas, the same holds true in the Philippines: "My passion for teaching is rooted in caring for the next generation, especially for the youth of our country."

  

Through the years, the SM college scholarship program has empowered 3,791 graduates who have enrolled in over 120 partner colleges and universities across the nation. These scholars enjoy full tuition benefits, monthly allowances, part-time work opportunities during semestral and Christmas breaks, job offers from the SM Group upon graduation, and engaging activities and enrichment programs. 

 

Additionally, SM's tech-voc scholarship program has produced 4,669 graduates, further contributing to the development of skilled professionals in various fields. 

SM group turns over 104th school building

 

SM scholars from Roxas City volunteer to clean the new school building ahead of its turnover.

In time for the school year opening, SM Prime through SM Foundation turned over a fully furnished two-storey building to the President Manuel Roxas Memorial Integrated School-South in Roxas City, Western Visayas.

The 104th school building made through the collaboration is built in accordance with specifications set by the Department of Education (DepEd). It holds four classrooms, each furnished with desks, chairs for left-handed students, toilets per classroom, including a special toilet for PWDs on the ground floor.

It also includes concave blackboards, electric fans, and LED lighting. Emergency lights were installed in the stairways for emergency-preparedness.

Supporting DepEd’s commitment to ensure that learners have access to water for hygiene and sanitation, SM Foundation installed a handwashing facility along with liquid soap for the community’s use.

To further assist, the SM group will help with the maintenance and upkeep of the said school.

Social Good 

SMFI School Building head, Juris Soliman (center) leads the preparation if the school building turnover. 

It was earlier announced by DepEd that roughly 21 million students enrolled this school year 2023-2024. Amidst this, the agency reported that only over 100,000 out of the more than 300,000 school buildings are in good condition.

Believing in the power of education in uplifting communities, SM Foundation has been an active member of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program since 2002, turning over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities nationwide. The said program intends to address overcrowding in schools and provide an environment conducive for learning.

HONOR X5 Plus debuts with an introductory price of Php 5,490!

Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines today announced the launch of the HONOR X5 Plus through a surprising price of only Php 5,490! Featuring an incredible 5200 mAh battery that can last you up to two days of usage and a 6.56-inch display supporting Dynamic Dimming, the all-new HONOR X5 Plus is the smartphone to beat!

 

Get it starting from September 26, 2023 at your nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or favorite online e-commerce stores, Lazada (https://bit.ly/X5PlusLaz), Shopee (https://bit.ly/X5PlusShopee), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTokX5Plus).

 

“It’s really one treat after another. What can I say, we love a sweet surprise here and there. I’m sure HONOR X5 Plus will be an exciting gift to our HONOR fans and budding tech enthusiasts. By making our quality products more affordable, we make technology more accessible to every Filipino out there,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.

 

Full of Power from Dawn to Dusk

 

The ultra-large 5,200mAh battery of HONOR X5 Plus can support up to 17.8 hours of online video playback and 35 hours of audio calls – matched with a very capable 4GB RAM + 64GB Super Storage, users can now say goodbye to storage anxiety and the pain of having to delete.

 

The larger storage gives you more freedom, retaining more fun and enjoyment. Sufficient for 12,000 photos, or 5000 songs, or 45 movies. HONOR X5 Plus is also compatible with up to 1TB MicroSD card expansion storage7 with Support HONOR RAM Turbo.

 

50MP Dual Camera to Capture the Wonderful Moments

 

HONOR X5 Plus features a powerful 50MP Dual Camera – a win for a smartphone priced at Php 5,490. This allows users to capture their wonderful life moments in vivid detail, day and night. On the front, the 5MP Front Camera produces high-quality images that can be instantly shared with friends and family.

 

HONOR X5 Plus comes in a 6.56-inch water-drop display including an eye-caring technology such as Dynamic Dimming, which simulates natural light to help alleviate eye fatigue caused by extended screen time. The 90Hz refresh rate enables the HONOR X5 Plus to display smoother visuals and provide a more responsive experience.

 

Running the latest Android 13-based HONOR MagicOS 7.1, the HONOR X5 Plus packs a raft of enhanced smart features to aid multi-tasking, providing a smart life experience and enhancing productivity to the maximum.

 

 

Pricing and Availability

 

Available in two stunning colors Cyan Lake and Midnight Black, the HONOR X5 Plus is now available for only Php 5,490. at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/X5PlusLaz), Shopee (https://bit.ly/X5PlusShopee), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTokX5Plus).

 

For more updates and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to bit.ly/HONORPhysicalStores.

 

About HONOR

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.