THE VIEW – 11/2020

11/2020

PLDT’S FUTURE-PROOF OUTLOOK

5 Enterprise’s Cloud, connectivity, cyber security | 8 Indofood: food system resilience 11 COVID-19: flighting with innovation | 20 Typhoon Goni: restoration and relief

www.firstpacific.com

THE VIEW – NOVEMBER 2020

V IS IT THE V IEW ON L IN E

PLDT, the Philippines’ largest and only integrated telecommunications company, marks 2020 with the rewards of its digital shift of recent years. The transformation is paying off. PLDT and its operating units have boosted key customer segments – Individual, Home and Enterprise.

PLDT is rolling out 5G, leading in cashless transactions with PayMaya, offering cloud-based solutions in cybersecurity, marketing, retailing, education and much more.

First Pacific Company Limited 24/F, Two Exchange Square 8 Connaught Place Central, Hong Kong SAR Telephone: +852 2842 4388 www.firstpacific.com

PUBLISHER Manuel V Pangilinan EDITOR-IN-CHIEF John Ryan EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL ADVISOR Sara Cheung ORIJEN TEAM Editor Julia Brown Production Director Katy Li Creative Director Jan Adams Designer Alina Rai Photo coordinator Ada Leung

Welcome to the November edition of The View and visit our online version at www.firstpacific.com/ press/theview. It highlights stories from around the group with videos to bring our news, innovations and events to life. The digital version can be enjoyed at your desk or on your mobile phones wherever you are. Please click in and let us know your feedback.

CONTENTS 1 A word from the Chief 2 PLDT powers ahead 4 Smart rolling out 5G 5 Enterprise innovates in Cloud, connectivity, cyber security 7 Connectedness, mobility, security: the Philippine Digital Convention 2020 8 Working towards food system resilience 8 Indofood boosting SME strength in the supply chain 9 MPTC leads cashless transformation 9 CCLEX conserves the environment 10 Maynilad supports Manila Bay rehabilitation 10 CALAX interchanges opened 11 COVID-19: fighting with innovation 14 Gabay Guro virtual grand gathering 2020 14 PLDT educates with digital solutions 15 Empowering a generation of digital heroes 16 Bravery and sacrifice from the frontliners 17 Circle of life and love 18 Group companies join hands to help 20 Typhoon Goni: restoration and relief 21 Meralco energizes education 22 PLDT wins fastest speed scores 22 PLDT in influential Top 100 citation 22 PLDT, Smart win Business Intelligence award 23 Meralco wins five Stevies 24 Basketball’s jump shot to the future

First Pacific is a Hong Kong-based investment management and holding company with operations located in Asia-Pacific. Our principal business investments relate to consumer food products, telecommunications, infrastructure and natural resources.

Within these sectors, our mission is to unlock value in our investee companies by: Delivering dividend/distribution returns to shareholders; Delivering share price/value appreciation of First Pacific and the investee companies; and Making further investment in value-enhancing businesses, taking into consideration all relevant criteria, including Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) factors to better manage risk and generate sustainable long-term returns.

A WORD FROM THE CHIEF

A word from the Chief To my colleagues with the First Pacific Group

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e are now several months into the COVID-19 pandemic and the First Pacific Group of companies is weathering this storm as well as we can. As this issue of The View goes to press, we are just coming to terms with the aftereffects of Typhoon Goni. We will have more on our response to this, the most powerful typhoon of 2020, in the next issue, as we begin to help recovery efforts for our affected stakeholders.

It is with some pleasant surprise that you will note that COVID-19 doesn’t appear until halfway into this edition of our Group’s bi-annual magazine.

Here you will read about the heroic efforts of our Metro Pacific hospitals group to help the nation get to grips with the virus. Overall it can be said that we are responding to this outbreak as well as one can. We have suffered irreplaceable losses among our loved ones but fewer than might have been, and we are beginning to see the light at the end of this grim tunnel.

There are heart-warming stories of victory over this illness, too, as in the tale of Amor Tomaquin. This young overseas worker returned home from Abu Dhabi eight and a half months pregnant with a baby girl – and with

COVID-19. Please read our inspiring coverage of her care at MPHHI’s St. Elizabeth Hospital in General Santos City. On the following page you will find touching vignettes of a handful of our frontline heroes in the COVID Crisis Team.

Much of this issue is devoted to the continuing successes of PLDT group as several years of intensive capital expenditure continue to pay off with competition-smashing network speeds and the rollout of Smart’s 5G network nationwide – the first in the Philippines.

Don’t forget to read the spotlight on First Pacific’s newest non-executive director, Axton Salim, and his work co-chairing the Global Advisory Lead Group of Scaling Up Nutrition (“SUN”) Business Network and his leadership in building a sustainable food supply chain and ensuring safe and nutritious food for the Asian consumers.

This November issue ends with my favorite sport, basketball, with reportage on preparations for the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers which are bound to be exciting, following Gilas Pilipinas’s 100-70 victory over Indonesia earlier this year. << MVP THE VIEW 1

FEATURE

PLDT powers ahead Stable and progressive growth EXTENSIVE NETWORK CAPTURING CUSTOMER SEGMENTS END SEPTEMBER 2020

96%

total population connected broadband

2.8M subscribers

2 THE VIEW

total subscribers

mobile

78.2M 72.4M individuals

fixed wireless broadband

0.6M subscribers

fixed line broadband

2.2M subscribers

FEATURE

PLDT, the Philippines’ largest and only integrated telecommunications company, is reaping the rewards of the hard work of transformation of recent years. The shift to a digital innovator and pioneer in 5G set PLDT up for its biggest challenge: COVID-19.

The company has proven to be resilient in 2020, delivering strong network performance.

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espite the COVID-19 pandemic and community quarantine, for the first nine month of this year, PLDT’s service revenues rose 9% to ₱126.6 billion driven by sustained demand for data and broadband, while telco core income up 8% to ₱21 billion. Its healthy earnings boosted its commitment to sustaining infrastructure investments and enhancing service improvements.

The company provided for a capex of at least ₱70 billion for 2020 in response to increased demand for digital connectivity, on top of ₱260 billion total capex spent in last five years. The sustained investments enabled PLDT group to handle the strong surge in data traffic during the quarantine periods and provide communications support to government efforts. With people forced to work and study at home, and businesses relying on online

services to keep operating and serving their customers, internet traffic surged.

“I see us at the forefront of digital empowerment, overcoming constraints on businesses and lives imposed by COVID,” said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan. “We future-proof our business by establishing what we believe to be our strongest foundations - the best network, excellent products, and world-class customer service.”

CASHLESS TRANSACTIONS SOAR The transaction volumes of PayMaya surged as more Filipinos made use of cashless payments during the lockdowns. Over 26 million registered customers accessed over 150,000 digital payment touchpoints nationwide and over 40 million merchants globally. The company

launched the PayMaya Negosyo app for micro-entrepreneurs, enabling online sellers to receive digital payments via QR, bank transfers and PayMaya’s Send Money feature.

Over 60 government agencies and local governments have partnered with PayMaya to serve the public in disbursing cash aid and accepting bill payments.

“As the only end-to-end digital financial ecosystem enabler in the country, PayMaya is best positioned to serve the needs of consumers, businesses, communities and government as people turn to cashless solutions not just to cope with the pandemic,” said President and CEO of PayMaya Philippines, Shailesh Baidwan.

Through its app and wallet, PayMaya provides millions of Filipinos with the fastest and most convenient way for everyday merchants, such as groceries, gas stations, pharmacies, quick-service restaurants, and e-commerce sites. Its Smart Padala

by PayMaya network of over 33,000 partner touchpoints nationwide serves as last-mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing the unbanked and underserved with access to services. <<

THE VIEW 3

FEATURE

ROLLING OUT 5G Smart is the first Philippine telco to launch 5G services nationwide. It is rolling out its commercial 5G service to key cities in Visayas and Mindanao, having launched its 5G service in July this year in Metro Manila.

“T

he commercial launch of 5G underscores our commitment to bring the best digital technologies to our customers across the country,” said Alfredo S Panlilio, Smart President and CEO and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer.

Panlilio added that the rollout of 5G in more areas in the country complements the deployment of Smart’s LTE network and the expansion of PLDT’s 395,000-km fiber infrastructure. “Combined with our fiber and 4G/LTE resources, we are providing our customers with the widest range of powerful connectivity services, as the country’s only fully integrated telco and digital services provider.”

The latest evolution in wireless communications, 5G offers fiberlike data speeds on mobile and

4 THE VIEW

Esports event. It also announced a groundbreaking partnership with the NBA Basketball League through the launch of NBA. Smart, a portal that enables subscribers to watch live NBA TV.

ultra-low latency, which enable next-level customer experience in uploading and downloading large files, streaming highresolution videos, playing online games, and benefitting from other cutting-edge applications.

Smart has teamed up with smartphone manufacturers like Huawei, Samsung, realme and vivo in offering Smart 5G-certified devices at Smart Stores nationwide and on the Smart Online Store.

Smart conducted the first cloud gaming competition in the Philippines on 5G in July via an

A GLOBAL RISING STAR In September 2020, Smart was named a Global Rising Star by independent analytics firm, Opensignal. Smart joined the top 30 global operators who made significant improvements in 4G availability and video experience, in a study by using leading measures of mobile network experience collected from approximately 96 million devices from 1 January to 28 June in 2019 and 2020.

Global Rising Stars are the top 30 operators where users have seen the greatest improvement in mobile network experience. The average time that Smart users spent on 4G rose by 17.9%. <<

FEATURE

Enterprise innovates in Cloud, connectivity, cyber security In September 2020, the ICT arm of PLDT Enterprise, ePLDT, joined the Google Cloud Partner Advantage Program. This partnership boosts PLDT Enterprise’s continuous efforts to strengthen its cloud expertise, with ePLDT integrating Google Cloud products into its end-toend ICT solutions offerings.

“W

e prioritize our customers’ needs and requirements.

Working with G Suite fortifies ePLDT’s expertise and capabilities as we create new opportunities for our customers and expand what is possible in the cloud,”

ePLDT President and CEO and SVP Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups Jovy Hernandez said.

of its own digital pivot in order to deliver a more meaningful customer experience to their corporate clients. One of its new services for connectivity and digital solutions to help businesses of any size gear up for the new normal is BEYOND FIBER. The service package combines enterprise-grade WiFi with a set of curated digital tools ranging from productivity and collaboration tools to e-payments and e-commerce solutions.

REBOOTING BUSINESS PLDT Enterprise group has invested heavily on the platform as part

“Enterprises have been pursuing digital transformation for several years now. The pandemic has

PLDT Enterprise has released a video on new developments in e-industries.

Learn more how technology helps with e-learning, e-banking, e-commerce, bridging the gap between medical institutions and patients.

Tech Talk On-Air

Watch at www.firstpacific.com/press/theview.php

THE VIEW 5

FEATURE

attacks,” said First Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer of ePLDT group, PLDT group and SMART, Angel Redoble.

EAS’s next-generation malware combines behavioral analytics and machine learning to identify threats.

Endpoints are monitored by ePLDT’s Security Operations Center 24×7, which reacts to malicious activity and prevents damage from spreading.

made this shift even more urgent.

BEYOND FIBER gives SMEs and other companies a ready toolkit to speed up their digital pivot and reboot their businesses amid the pandemic,” said Hernandez.

Other growth areas are in education and telemedicine, where the Enterprise group has initiated efforts to equip hospitals, clinics and physicians with connectivity and digital tools so that they can provide healthcare to patients remotely.

PARTNERSHIPS FOR ULTIMATE CONVENIENCE In a strategic partnership that is perfectly suited to the times, in June 2020 PLDT has joined hands with Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading appbased transport, food and logistics provider.

“Together with Grab, we are making it quick, convenient, and safe for our customers to enjoy our products and services through on-demand orders coupled with rapid delivery,” Smart President and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer, Al S Panlilio said. “This is part of our overall shift and broader strategy of moving toward onlinedriven solutions as we ready ourselves for the next stage of the new normal.

This partnership extends our reach not only online, but also kicks-off our other strategic initiatives in the space of remote working, e-learning and e-health,” he concluded.

6 THE VIEW

ePLDT also recently entered into a strategic partnership with US-based cloud computing and customer relationship management solution giant Salesforce, bolstering its foothold in the local cloud arena. ePLDT has built teams of certified professionals to enable enterprises to reinvent themselves in the new normal using Salesforce’s leading business applications.

CYBERSECURITY COUNCIL In July 2020, PLDT, Smart and ePLDT launched the Philippines’ first corporate Cybersecurity Council, with representatives from First Pacific Group companies. At the Asian Institute of Management’s first Cybersecurity Executive Course, experts from PLDT and Smart led the learning sessions on how to build cyber-resilient organizations.

TIMELY SECURITY SOLUTIONS ePLDT continues to strengthen its cyber security capabilities to serve the need for stronger protection in the new era of working from home. Its newest service is Endpoint Advanced Security (“EAS”) which aims to protect devices such as laptops, desktops, and servers by detecting, preventing, and responding to attacks.

“While security solutions have become more comprehensive, hackers have also become savvier and are increasingly using vulnerable endpoints as entries for malicious

CYBERSMART VIDEO CONFERENCES Smart created a learning series through its #CyberSmart Cyber Security Beyond Digital virtual caravan, to educate students and teachers in protecting their digital lives. The six TED-style talks at the topics included internet safety, identifying phishing schemes, preparing social media account defenses, best practices in securing gadgets and devices, as well as spotting fake news.

“We have become more aware that cyber threats can attack anyone from all walks and backgrounds, seeking to exploit sensitive information that users make available online. As our online presence increases, so does the risk of us getting attacked. And so, we must all make a conscious effort to make a habit of exercising good online practices. Always remember to be critical with what you see, read and share online,” said Smart Head and Vice President for Customer Development John Palanca.

AIR FORCE SECURITY PLDT has partnered with the Philippine Air Force to assist with cyber security. Smart Communications and ePLDT will enhance cyber operations with an upgrade of digital infrastructure and systems, and train the “cyber warriors” within the service. ePLDT Security Operations Center will provide the air force with a customized dashboard to monitor internal operations and a cyber intelligence platform to protect and alert against rising threat levels. <<

NEWS

Connectedness, mobility, security: the Philippine Digital Convention 2020 As the world enters the new era of work, PLDT Enterprise explores the implications and opportunities as businesses pivot towards ensuring lasting and effective change.

foresees an agile future: “Connectedness, mobility, security. Ultimately, these three things lead us to the fourth edge the agile future - which happens when man and machine can symbiotically work together. When man can truly accept that he can work with and rely on machines.”

PROFOUND NETWORK AND 5G DEVELOPMENTS The convention began with plenary sessions, where delegates gained invaluable insights from global business executives and world-renowned leaders unique delegates on how to pivot their enterprises towards success - ultimately enabling them to make a positive impact on society today.

C-level delegates

4,600+ 1,200+

P

LDT Enterprise invited the world’s biggest names in technology and business in a curated virtual platform to host the Philippine Digital Convention 2020 #PHDigicon2020 on 28-30 October. Now in its sixth year, the 2020 convention was set to be the grandest and most impactful, providing opportunities for enterprises to engage, network and learn.

Speakers include Chuck Robbins, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cisco Systems, Academy Award–winning actress and founder and CEO of goop, Gwyneth Paltrow and NTT Research President and CEO Kazuhiro Gomi.

AN AGILE FUTURE Chairman and CEO, PLDT and Smart, Manuel V Pangilinan said, “Our aim is to supply wider access to global best practices and prepare ourselves for a tougher and difficult future. But our message is one of hope. These times call for people of purpose and commitment: those who want to make a positive impact on the lives of people, those who choose to find their better angels, and reach for the higher ground.

We simply must build a better, safer, and greater future.” ePLDT President and CEO and SVP and Head of PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups, Jovy Hernandez,

A series of deep-dive workshops led by technology and industry experts explored innovations set to make an impact on business, effectively redefining the future of work across sectors.

“Foundational to all our futures, networking technologies and 5G in particular will be important.

These technologies are going to do profoundly important things for us - with humanity and for humanity - and hopefully, convince you that the world we’re entering is a very exciting and exhilarating world, where networks are going to be key to drive transformation. Once we understand that, I think all policy regulations, spectrum choices, infrastructure use, investments, new business models all follow from there.” noted Senior Partner, Nokia Bell Labs, Fuad Siddiqui. <<

2,500+

participating multi-national companies

16,000++ virtual booth engagements

100+

industry and technology presenters

70+ virtual activities

21

countries

12

industries

27+

hours of livestreamed sessions

THE VIEW 7

NEWS

WORKING TOWARDS FOOD SYSTEM RESILIENCE Food insecurity and the challenges of the food supply chain have been in the spotlight in 2020, particularly the impacts in relation to COVID-19.

D

irector of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk, Axton Salim, who is also Co-Chair of Global Advisory Lead Group of Scaling Up Nutrition (“SUN”) Business Network, took part in a webinar on these issues on 30 July 2020, hosted by the International Life Sciences Institute (“ILSI”).

In the seminar, he talked about:

 Food accessibility is a form of security in times of

crisis and pandemic.  The basic food safety management system, good

hygienic practices, good manufacturing practices are now the necessity, and we are challenged to review all general protocols and procedures.  Manufacturing is only one small part of a complex network of people and activities in getting food from farm to plate. It involves factors such as food supply chains, food environments, individual factors, consumer behaviours with external influences such as climate change, globalisation and trade, urbanisation, politics, and geography.  The immediate problem and challenges from social distancing is mobility. This is where there is a discrepancy in accessibility of food between the urban and rural, and between the social classes.  Technology has played an important role for Indonesians in the past years. Connectivity to the internet, varies from 4G in the metropolitan areas like

Jakarta, to 2G in the outer islands like Papua. These factors create discrepancies, in issues of accessibility, price and affordability, and variety in pricing of various foods.  The COVID 19 pandemic will undermine nutrition across the world, in particular the low-income and middle-income countries. New estimates suggest that without timely action, the global prevalence of child stunting could rise by 14.3%. Pre-Covid, there are already 47 million children under 5 who are affected by stunting globally, so this would translate to an additional 6.7 million malnourished and stunted children during the first 12 months of the pandemic.

Salim also cited initiatives to support food system resilience under the umbrella of the SUN Business Network. These interventions include continuing food fortifications, workplace nutrition and the newborns’ first 1,000 days’ program. The food industry also plays an important educative role through integrated health messaging and healthy lifestyle digital platforms.

ILSI is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide science that improves human health, wellbeing and safeguards the environment. <<

Boosting SME strength in the supply chain

S

mall and medium-sized enterprises (“SMEs”) are the bedrock of the business sector and are also the most vulnerable during times of pandemic crisis.

Indofood’s inclusive business model has approximately 80,000 SMEs in its supply chain working with its key brands, Bogasari, Indomie and Indomilk.

Indofood has been supporting the Indonesian government in a national movement, Bangga Buatan Indonesia (“BBI”), meaning Proud of Made in Indonesia.

The government aims to develop an additional two million SME’s by December 8 THE VIEW

2020, focusing on e-commerce upgrades and sustainable operations. Indofood participates in the program by leveraging its brand strengths, advocating BBI through its digital communication channels and SME kiosk network.

It is also upgrading 20 selected SMEs through the Accelerice Digital Program.

Indonesian SMEs contribute around 60% of GDP. Realizing their potential through digital transformation in operation is key to revitalizing the economy. <<

NEWS

MPTC leads cashless transformation Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (“MPTC”) has been a prime mover in implementing cashless payments on its tollways.

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he company is set to have all its tollways, namely the North Luzon Expressway (“NLEX”), SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway (“SCTEX”), Manila-Cavite Expressway (“CAVITEX”) and Cavite-Laguna Expressway (“CALAX”) on radio frequency identification (“RFID”) technology by November 2020, with drive-through sites in various locations for easy installation of RFID stickers on vehicles and reloading.

The Department of Transportation issued D.O. 2020-12 on 13 August that mandated cashless transactions at tollways starting 2 November 2020.

Roberto V Bontia, concurrently heading CAVITEX and CALAX and Head of MPTC’s RFID 100 Task Force, outlined MPTC’s preparations into four key elements: infrastructure readiness, operational and visibility improvements, motorist assistance, and manpower re-equipping and retooling.

MPTC will be implementing the cashless payment plan in three phases. The first phase is 100% of its toll lanes on RFID; second phase would be the interoperability with the other expressways in the next 12 months; and third phase would be open-road tolling in the next twothree years.

J Luigi Bautista, President and General Manager of NLEX Corporation emphasized, “Minimizing physical contact and going cashless in our toll roads became an urgent priority because public health has taken on a whole new level of significance with COVID-19. Although we have launched the RFID as a payment option in our expressways for quite some time already, it has become more relevant with this global health crisis.” <<

CCLEX CONSERVES THE ENVIRONMENT This beautiful video by National Geographic Asia shows how MPTC’s Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (“CCLEX”) found the balance between transformation and conservation.

MPTC groupwide RFID roll out is on track to comply with D.O. 2020-12 and we will be ready to implement contactless toll payments consistent with the timeline,” says MPTC President and CEO Rodrigo Franco.

MPTC’s RFID system, brought by its electronic toll collection subsidiary Easytrip, has more than 950,000 subscribers to date, and more than 40 % of all vehicles on MPTC tollways using RFID transactions, compared to 32 % in May. The tollway company also readied RFID Assist Squads at the toll plazas to help motorists who need immediate help with the use of their RFID stickers.

Bridge of tomorrow

Watch at www.firstpacific.com/press/theview.php

THE VIEW 9

NEWS

MAYNILAD SUPPORTS MANILA BAY REHABILITATION Unveils sewer rehab project in Central Manila

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aynilad Water Services, Inc. (“Maynilad”) is committed to protect community health and the environment through the proper treatment of effluents, in compliance with the continuing Supreme Court mandate to clean up, rehabilitate and preserve Manila Bay. On 15 October 2020 Maynilad unveiled its ₱969 million Central Manila Sewerage System (“CMSS”) Rehabilitation Project – an upgrade of approximately 9,600 meters of sewer lines within 30 barangays in parts of the Sta. Cruz and Malate areas in Manila. Targeted for completion in June 2021, the project is Maynilad’s long-term wastewater management program and will help to sustain sewerage coverage expansion in the West Zone, ultimately helping to reduce pollution load in the Manila Bay area.

In his speech during the launch event, Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso commended Maynilad for pursing the rehab project. Mayor Isko assured the water company of his city’s full support for the project, notwithstanding its possible impact on traffic conditions.

Maynilad President and CEO Ramoncito S Fernandez commented on the company’s commitment, “To date, we have already invested more than ₱41 billion for the improvement and expansion of the wastewater infrastructure, including our ongoing construction of new sewage treatment plants in Valenzuela, Las Piñas, and Cupang and Tunasan in Muntinlupa.” <<

CALAX interchanges opened MPTC unit MPCALA Holdings Inc. opened two key interchanges on its 45-kilometer CALAX on 18 August, despite COVID-19 hurdles.

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epartment of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar inspected the interchanges together with MPTC executives prior to its opening. “About 10,000 cars per day are currently served by the Laguna Segment, and these interchanges are added catalysts for the much-needed economic activity at all levels, it will allow the flow of output of goods and services that people utilize thereby spurring growth in the community and the region.” Villar said.

“I am very happy that this project has progressed despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Villar said.

“The community quarantine affected the mobilization of construction, the manpower that oversee the coordination to secure the service roads and the overall timeline of 10 THE VIEW

the project…. It is really a delicate balance as we aim to reach more milestones of this project, while keeping our people, the community and the construction sites safe,” he said.

With these interchanges operational, motorists can enjoy access to and from the Laguna Technopark and have an alternative route to and from Nuvali via Laguna Boulevard and South Boulevard, thus decongesting Santa RosaTagaytay Road and other local service roads in the area. MPCALA Holdings President Roberto V Bontia said the interchanges will open in full electronic mode as a measure against the spread of the coronavirus. “Operating the interchanges using 100% RFID will eliminate cross contamination of the virus, which may spread through bills and coins used in cash payments.

By November the whole of CALAX will be on RFID technology,” he added.

The CALAX will soon connect the CAVITEX in Cavite to the South Luzon Expressway (“SLEX”) Interchange in Laguna. Once fully operational, the ₱35.43-billion project is expected to cut travel time between CAVITEX and SLEX from the current 2.5 hours to just 45 minutes. <<

COVID-19

COVID-19: fighting with innovation The Philippines has been hard hit by COVID-19. A stringent community quarantine from mid-March to May was followed by a gradual opening-up of the economy.

July brought an alarming spike in cases, prompting the medical experts to call for restrictive measures. Another partial lockdown was ordered in August and the country is still fighting to flatten the curve.

T

he healthcare sector is facing enormous challenges during the ongoing pandemic. Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings Inc. (“MPHHI”) has been at the forefront of the government’s efforts. Three of MPHHI’s 17 hospitals are designated for COVID-19 patients and are adding more beds. Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, one of MPHHI’s designated COVID-19 referral facilities, is a prime example. To accommodate the increasing number of COVID patients

in the 230-bed hospital, it has opened multiple wards to separate patients of different symptom profiles, and to accommodate more patients.

In addition to wards for COVIDconfirmed, probable and suspect cases, there are separate wards for healthcare professionals and healthcare workers.

Under the new normal, MPHHI member hospitals are strictly implementing and continuously improving patient care processes.

They have put in place infrastructure improvements for zoning, and enhanced infection prevention controls. They conduct periodic testing of frontliners and contact tracing and quarantine procedures when health workers develop symptoms.

In July 2020, the Metro Pacific Hospitals COVID Crisis Management Team initiated free webinars for the medical profession. These share knowledge about hospital safety in the new normal. Presidents of facilities and Head Doctors shared best practices in infection control, protocols and engineering interventions. Another topic was Transforming Healthcare Service Delivery Platforms and Business Processes to Create a Safer Hospital Environment.

METRO PACIFIC HOSPITALS EXPLORE TELEMEDICINE SOLUTIONS The group is fighting COVID-19 with innovation. It has introduced virtual consultation, as well as other services like e-pharmacy, mobile laboratories, remote patient monitoring and continuity of care beyond the hospital room.

Telemedicine was previously viewed as a means to provide health care THE VIEW 11

COVID-19

MPIF President Melody del Rosario (L), turns over 100 Bayan Tanim! planting crates for Brgy.

128 Smokey Mountain in Manila.

for remote locations. Now, it takes center stage as a solution for an overwhelmed healthcare system.

“MPHHI believes that using telemedicine and remote patient monitoring for management of chronic diseases can minimize, though not totally prevent, physical visits of patients to healthcare facilities,” said Chief Information Officer of MPHHI, Eriene C Lao. As a group initiative, she said, MPHHI is in the process of selecting the most feasible solution that will serve as a common platform for the MPHHI hospitals.

“We feel there are also operational benefits here,” she said. “Hospitals can optimize the utilization of their bed capacity, improve the efficiency of healthcare workers, allow collaboration of medical teams from across different hospitals, and give remote hospitals access to more experienced medical practitioners in the bigger hospitals.”

MPIF LAUNCHES BAYAN TANIM! Advocates food sustainability among underprivileged communities Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (“MPIF”) strives to assist the vulnerable communities who are suffering most throughout the pandemic. Its latest initiative promotes food sustainability by helping communities to grow household crops from their backyard.

Bayan Tanim! - launched on 8 September 2020 - supports the “Plant, Plant, Plant” campaign of the Department of Agriculture which supplied the seeds, and the “Move Food Initiative” of Agrea Agriculture System International Inc. In partnership with First Pacific, MPIF turned over the first 100 Bayan Tanim! plant crates to the local government of Brgy. 128 Smokey Mountain in Tondo, Manila.

The planting crates will expand the range of crops grown in their local community garden, to build a sustainable source of food. Other communities are scheduled for support.

Reliable supply MPIF President Melody del Rosario said, “Growing your own produce is a simple solution to numerous health, environmental and economic problems. There is an untapped

12 THE VIEW

potential for small scale home vegetable growing that leads to self-sufficiency, sustainability, including physical and mental wellbeing. During these uncertain and challenging times, Bayan Tanim can transform us into a plant nation for a sustainable means of living that communities can rely on long after this pandemic is over.”

Bayan Tanim! is the third phase of MPIF’s COVID-19 efforts, following substantial personal protective equipment (“PPE”) distributions to medical frontliners in over a dozen hospitals and a relief pack distribution to over 3,700 families in underserved and marginalized communities.

GROUP COMPANIES EXTEND AID TO PAMPANGA Tulong Kapatid, the CSR alliance of the First Pacific Group in the Philippines, provided relief assistance to areas in Pampanga as part of their nationwide campaign against the COVID-19 pandemic.

MPIF distributed 200 full PPE kits to the Task Force Safe Haven Quarantine Facility in Tarlac and 300 grocery packs for the municipality in Apalit.

“We realize that helping provide aid distribution will help the province stretch its help for all its 505

COVID-19

barangays,” says MPIF President Melody del Rosario. “It is a daunting task for all provinces and we in the private sector are always ready to extend our support.”

PLDT-Smart Foundation (“PSF’) donated over 1,000 grocery packs, 250 PPE sets and 10 checkpoint tents to Angeles City and City of San Fernando, Pampanga. These donations have been distributed to indigenous communities and povertystricken villages in the region.

PSF’S MULTI-SECTOR AID OUTREACH PSF and its partners have prioritized Cebu as one of the COVID-19 hot spots in the Philippines. The foundation has distributed boxes of face masks, PPEs, disinfecting kits and carboys of ethyl alcohol to local hospitals, medical centers, local government offices, media offices and schools in Cebu.

The group also identified hot spot areas of Manila, where most of the families were rendered homeless and some minimum wage earners are in danger of becoming jobless. With funds raised from PSF’s fundraising campaign #ProjectProtect: Protect Yourself, Help Others, it responded to the call of Barangay 473 in Sampaloc by providing over 500 families with food packs.

“Our bayanihan spirit remains resilient, especially during this tough time. By partnering with various organizations, we hope to reach out to more Filipinos who are severely impacted by the pandemic,” said PSF President Esther Santos.

Supporting education, the army PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan, marked his birthday on 14 July with various activities together with PSF to help schools facing the difficult task of preparing to reopen classes.

He led the turnover of the Schoolin-a-bag donation to North Bay Boulevard North Elementary School in one of the poorest informal settler communities in Metro Manila. The provision forms part of the $50K grant from Huawei Technologies Philippines, Inc. to PSF. The donation included 20 tablets, a laptop, and a Smart Pocket Wifi, with Pangilinan providing an additional 66 tablets for Grade 6 students in Navotas Market Three.

He noted, “Education has long been one of main pillars of the corporate social responsibility programs of PLDT and Smart. As we navigate through the new normal, we continue to support the country’s educational system by empowering students and teachers nationwide through flexible learning modalities.”

He also donated, through PSF, 1,000 packs of rice and vegetables to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (“AFP”) for its soldiers and their families.

AFP has been an invaluable partner in PSF’s relief efforts. To support over 4,000 families in communities under lockdown in Metro Manila, the PSF provided over 1,250 kgs of rice and 500 kgs of vegetables to the AFP mobile kitchen. The foundation also served 150 lunch meals to National Task Force officers and staff in Camp Aguinaldo. <<

PSF donated over

1,000 grocery packs

MPIF distributed Relief pack to over

3,700 families

PSF’s fundraising campaign Protect Yourself, Help Others providined over

500

families with food packs.

Turnover of donations to Pampanga.

Front (L-R): Michelle Gumabao, PSF President Esther Santos, PNP Regional Head PBGen Rhodel O Serminia, MPIF President Melody M Del Rosario, NLEX Sr. CSR Manager Cherry Dela Rea and AKFI Executive Director Menchie Silvestre.

THE VIEW 13

COVID-19

More than 400,000 beloved teachers went online to attend the PLDT Gabay Guro Virtual Grand Gathering on 3 October 2020! This annual get-together is the culmination of Gabay Guro’s commitment to acknowledge and honor the sacrifices and efforts of educators nationwide, and most especially for this year, to celebrate their dedication and perseverance as Philippine education makes a rapid shift to digital transformation. Here’s a quick look-back on that fun-filled day!

Gabay Guro

Watch at www.firstpacific.com/press/theview.php

PLDT educates with digital solutions BOOSTING E-LEARNING IN THE PANDEMIC PLDT and Smart recognize quality education as a foundation in improving people’s lives and obtaining sustainable development.

True to the company’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #4: Quality Education, this continues to be the group’s flagship corporate social responsibility (“CSR”) program, with a strong emphasis on digital literacy.

14 THE VIEW

PLDT and Smart have developed pandemic-resilient educational services and solutions for the Philippine Department of Education (“DepEd”). These include learning management systems, digital infrastructure and connectivity, wireless and fiber plans, and digital devices for the 1.2 million teachers and 32 million students in the country. To complement the technology solutions, Smart has offered to help teachers to use an

innovative learning system - the CVIFDynamic Learning Program (CVIFDLP) - which can used in modular, online and on-air learning settings.

Developed by Ramon Magsaysay laureates and world-renowned theoretical physicists Dr. Christopher Bernido and Dr. Ma. Victoria CarpioBernido, the methodology works in all primary and secondary academic levels, as well as in the Alternative Learning System, and targets the entire spectrum of learners, including Special Education students.

BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE PLDT and Smart continue to support students and teachers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with its flagship School-in-a-Bag program. This initiative is a portable digital classroom designed to support distance learning, even in remote areas without electricity and internet connectivity.

Specially designed for online learning under the new normal, each waterresistant backpack now carries 20 student tablets that are pre-loaded with educational content - including award-winning mother tonguebased interactive apps developed

by Smart and academic partners, a teacher’s laptop, a pocket WiFi kit, and more. With these enhancements, the total value of each School-in-aBag is ₱200,000 or approximately US$4,000. In October 2020, PLDT donated 15 School-in-a-Bag packages to the Department of Education (“DepEd”), part of the 70 bags that will be delivered to schools this year. These resulted from joint efforts among broadband services

COVID-19

provider PLDT Home, PLDT Enterprise, PSF, Smart’s flagship CSR, Smart Communities, and an employee fund-raising initiative, Smart Saturdays.

To date, PLDT, Smart and various donors have provided 300 portable digital classrooms to DepEd schools, which have helped bridge the digital divide for more than 80,000 underserved students and over 2,000 teachers nationwide.

A CRUCIAL ROLE “Heeding the call for businesses to rise to the challenges posed by the pandemic, PLDT and Smart are one with the DepEd in ensuring that learning continues. We recognize our important role to keep teachers, students and other members of the academic community connected,” PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan said.

“We recognize the important role of communications in education.

We look forward to the continuity of this tradition of partnership, generosity and advise as we work together with PLDT and Smart to look for new ways of delivering education to teachers and students,” said DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones.

Since the start of the COVID-19 health crisis, PLDT and Smart have stepped up education efforts to provide relevant tools, technologies, and information during the pandemic. In addition to the School-in-a-Bag donations and implementation of the CVIF Dynamic Learning Program, the group facilitated zero-rating of the DepEd Commons online platform for subscribers to gain free access to lessons, provided communications support to DepEd’s frontliners, launched free airing of DepEd TV in two channels of affiliate company Cignal TV Inc., and released the Gabay Guro onestop-app for digital educational resources in time for World Teachers Day 2020. <<

EMPOWERING A GENERATION OF DIGITAL HEROES

I

n difficult times, Smart has developed creative ways to support the youth and the education community of the Philippines, while channeling the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”).

solutions from the UN pillars of Prosperity, Planet, Peace, and People. These solutions are designed to advance the greater aims of the SDGs, which have never been more relevant than during the COVID-19 pandemic. During Smart partnered with the the two week-long hackathon, United Nations Development SDG advocates, youth leaders, Program’s (“UNDP”) Youth Force young professionals, and in the Philippines Inc. (“YFPH”) students worked energetically for its SDG Bayanihan Summit to design feasible and robust 2020 from 10-24 October. It digital solutions to real-life offered a much-needed boost challenges. to confidence and an online rally to youth to look to the PROGRESS, PEOPLE AND future with positivity and hope. PLANET The SDG Bayanihan Summit The summit celebrated youth 2020 attracted over 50 empowerment, casting them partners and sponsors, as potential heroes (Bayanihan more than 15 speakers and is derived from the Filipino mentors, to enable the youth word bayani, meaning hero). to become digital heroes. The The theme was Galing Pilipinas closing ceremony celebrated – Galing meaning “source, the winners of the hackathons excellence and heal”. It and capped off the biggest challenged participants to find bayanihan of 2020. inspiration and solutions in a hackathon of innovation named Supporting the YFPH fits the INAYAB Labs (Innovation PLDT-Smart overarching and Advancement for Youth sustainability mission. It Activation Building Labs). complements the group’s work in bridging the SOLUTIONS FOR REAL-LIFE education divide with CHALLENGES technology during the A pre-summit workshop, pandemic, bringing learning Jumpstart, introduced the opportunities to all students themes, speakers and delegates. and teachers. Together with Speakers from various its innovation focus and stakeholder sectors outlined the range of corporate social UN SDGs and experts were on responsibility and governance hand to mentor and assist the programs, it seeks to ensure young participants. the future of the triple bottom-line of the business The INAYAB Labs challenged sustainability: Progress, them to find sustainable People and Planet. <<

THE VIEW 15

COVID-19

Bravery and sacrifice from the frontliners To highlight the remarkable and unique stories of our heroes, as well as their everyday challenges, the Metro Pacific Hospitals Covid Crisis Team has been talking to frontliners from the different hospitals in the network.

Cycling to serve patients EAM CORDERO LAGUESMA confesses “I didn’t know how to ride. I always used training wheels when I was a kid. A police officer actually stopped me to ask: “Do you really know how to ride a bike, ma’am?” Until today, I pray to God before every ride to work: “Lord, please don’t let me die today.

I started riding a bike to work for two reasons. The first reason is because it would take 1-1.5 hours to walk to work; the available shuttles don’t cover my routes; and I can’t really afford a taxi every day. And the second reason is I really, really need to be at work. I’m a Med Tech for Davao Doctors Hospital; I’m one of the people who swab the COVID-19 patients.” <<

Short of breath DR. PATRICK VINLUAN third year medical resident at the Saints Medical Center, says, “When the lockdown started, I sent home my 5 year old daughter to Bataan, to be with her grandfather and grandmother. Maybe it will be Covid ... because we are frontliners.

It’s busy here. So much has happened. I was in PPE for a bit longer the other day. I accompanied the patient in MRI; I did not leave him. I’m doing rounds. But eventually, I had a hard time breathing, then my chest was pounding.

I really don’t know if what happened to me is special. Maybe that happened to others. I am being rested for one week, and now, I am back.

I really want to go back, and good thing I was cleared right away. <<

16 THE VIEW

“It’s our calling” DOCTORS GERARD SANTOS AND JOBELLINE MAE FERNANDEZ are Emergency Room physicians – truly at the frontline – at West Metro Medical Center. They reported that the stigma of being exposed to COVID-19 was actually worse than their fear of the illness. Engaged since April 2019, they were also in the midst of planning their wedding when the pandemic struck. The wedding was postponed. Yet the couple are utterly committed to their mission, saying, “We never considered quitting. Our job is not just our job. It’s our calling. If we refused to do our duty then the hospital system would have collapsed a long time ago.” <<

COVID-19

Frontliners at St. Elizabeth Hospital send off Amor and baby Angela.

Photo from St. Elizabeth Hospital.

A

CIRCLE OF LIFE AND LOVE

mor Tomaquin, an overseas worker, returned to the Philippines from Abu Dhabi.

While eight and a half months pregnant, Amor was alarmed to find herself testing positive for COVID-19. Fortunately, Amor was placed in the compassionate care of MPHHI’s St Elizabeth Hospital in General Santos City. On 6 August 2020, amidst her anxiety, she gave birth to a baby girl, Angela Faith.

Mother and baby were immediately isolated from each other to prevent infection. Amor spent 15 excruciating days apart from her newborn and her partner, Webner Carpentero, also waited anxiously, miles away in Abu Dhabi.

Supported by her hospital team and a

pure mother’s love, Amor came through the ordeal. On 21 August 2020, mother Amor and baby Angela were reunited and given a heartfelt send-off home by their hospital staff.

The hospital said, “Throughout our long history, St. Elizabeth Hospital has witnessed millions of stories that remind us every day why we do what we do, stories of sadness and loss, and of happiness and life. All of them strengthen our resolve to continue serving our community the best way we can. The incredible story of Amor and Angela is one of our greatest reminders that even with all the uncertainty currently surrounding us, the circle of life - and love – will go on and on.” <<

THE VIEW 17

COVID-19

Group companies join hands to help This year’s health crisis has proven the agility of Tulong Kapatid

D

rawing on the strengths and resources of First Pacific Group companies in the Philippines, Tulong Kapatid works to rapidly reach communities in need, boosted by continuous fundraising efforts.

“When the world found itself in such unprecedented situations, of cities in lockdown and countries under quarantine, the lifeline that kept communities functioning was communications such as digital capabilities and opportunities. School children could keep studying and have more access to e-learning essential tools. Under these very constrained circumstances, it became clear which basic services are truly essential – the various relief assistance to communities in both the metro and far-flung areas. Our Group commits to support the government and the frontline workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” Pangilinan told the Manila Times in October.

SUPPORT AT ALL LEVELS Under Tulong Kapatid, in conjunction with Alagang Kapatid, group companies have intensified their efforts throughout 2020.

Smart is working with the Central Visayan Institute Foundation to deliver the CVIF-Dynamic Learning Program.

This aims to provide continuity of learning and teaching through technology despite COVID-19. It supports the DepEd’s Basic EducationLearning Continuity Plan. Smart also educates students and teachers on

digital security with its #CyberSmart program – an online resource in association with the National Privacy Commission. The company continues to roll out its Digital Farmers Program to empower the rural poor, while MPIF’s Bayan Tanim! program promotes sustainable vegetable gardening.

PLDT produced a webinar series for the women of rural communities in Mindanao’s Cotabato Province and provided a stimulus package to SMEs with BEYOND FIBER. The One Meralco Foundation has completed its solar electrification of seven off-grid island schools in Samar.

SAVING LIVES, DELIVERING RELIEF During COVID-19, the group has been raising funds via PayMaya to purchase food packs, hygiene kits, and care packages distributed to all medical and uniformed front liners. To date, Alagang Kapatid has reached over 98 communities and 24,000 people in Metro Manila in 2020. Throughout October, it ran a blood donation campaign with the Department of Health Philippine Blood Center.

When Typhoon Quinta struck the Bicol region recently on 26 October, Alagang Kapatid delivered food and relief supplies to 200 displaced and homeless families.

True to the mission of saving lives, inspiring hope and building a brighter

future for children, the group continues to join hands and offer help – through all circumstances.

PSF, SMART RUN TEXT-TO-DONATE DRIVE AND CONCERTS FOR HEALTH WORKERS, FRONTLINERS PSF and Smart Communications ran a Text-to-Donate drive for COVID-19 frontliners and communities, making it easy for millions of its customers across the Philippines to contribute by sending a simple text message.

The proceeds has been employed for relief and response efforts to help health workers, frontliners, hospitals and poor communities who are most impacted by the pandemic.

Smart also teamed up with some of the country’s biggest musicians and artists for Smart Music Live Online Sessions, a series of live online shows to raise donations for the hardworking frontliners.

FRONTLINER HEROES GIVEN MERALCO ACCOMMODATION The Medical City in Manila is a COVID-19 facility in proximity to the Meralco Center. In its spirit of solidarity, Meralco has created comfortable accommodation for the medical staff in the multi-purpose hall of the Meralco Fitness Center.

32 medical frontliners live there with close access to their crucial work.

Meralco provides these courageous men and women with bedding, amenity kits, home-cooked hot meals four times per day, refrigerator, microwave, exercise equipment, and shower and toilet facilities, internet access, 30 Smart SIM cards, and even a TV with Netflix.

“These frontliners treat COVID-19 patients and we wanted to do our best to make them feel loved, caredfor, safe, and comfortable,” said Meralco President and CEO Atty. Ray C Espinosa.

Can’t go out, can’t go home, can’t give up The healthcare workers, who are sacrificing their own health and time with their families to care for patients,

COVID-19

“Along with other private sector groups, we continue to support government efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. We hope that our assistance to the East Avenue Medical Center for its new COVID-19 facility will help provide quality care for patients, especially during this critical phase of the health emergency,” said Pangilinan.

Donated equipment includes the hospital bed with mattresses, bed sheets and comforters as well as a cardiac monitor, ventilator, IV infusion pump and IV stand and high flow oxygen machine.

had to contend with the uncertainties of their living situation and even discrimination. Landlords rejected them, based on their profession.

They had camped in various temporary quarters in order to be close to The Medical City, but none were suitable until Meralco stepped in.

Despite the hardship and disruption, the medics stayed dedicated to their work, promising to never give up.

Aside from ensuring reliable supply of electricity for everyone throughout this crisis, for more than just #KeepTheLightsOn, Meralco also supports those who work the hardest to keep our light of hope that we will pull through shining bright.

As Meralco Chairman Manuel V Pangilinan said in the Easter message to employees: “You are bearers of torches that give light to the dark corners of our country - not just mirrors passively reflecting the light of others.”

MERALCO POWERS COVID-19 TREATMENT CENTERS Meralco continues to provide lighting for the 300-bed mega tent quarantine facility dubbed as We Heal as One Center, at the Philippine Arena Complex. The center is one of the many vital hospitals and COVID-19 treatment and testing centers in the Meralco franchise area.

In August, Meralco provided service upgrades including the installation of 11 concrete poles, 240-meters overhead lines, nine distribution transformers, and three metering facilities.

PLDT, MERALCO DONATE ₱45M TO MEDICAL FACILITY PLDT and Meralco donated ₱45-million worth of medical equipment to East Avenue Medical Center for its new COVID facility in August. Hospital beds and critical equipment were allocated for the emergency room, wards and intensive care units.

PAYMAYA PROMOTES SAFETY PayMaya has helped Filipinos to shop, make payments and travel safely during COVID-19. As a leader in contactless payments, PayMaya has been at the forefront of making safe and convenient online shopping and payments accessible to all. It has put security and safety at the center of its brand and messaging, with continuing education in contactless transactions.

The PayMaya app provides a secure virtual credit card, enabling users to avoid waiting in lines to pay bills and to load cash at thousands of partners, including major department store chains, convenience stores, pawnshops, as well as access to shops and services from local and international sites that require a major credit card. Users may buy tickets, book flights, make payments conveniently, buy mobile loads, games, download and stream music, send and receive remittances and more.

PayMaya continues its fundraiser, #OneAgainstCOVID19, with users making donations to charities via the app. <<

THE VIEW 19

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE

Typhoon Goni: restoration and relief The Philippines bore the brunt of 2020’s strongest typhoon, which hit the main island of Luzon on 31 October. Typhoon Goni (named Rolly in the Philippines) brought disaster to the provinces and islands of the Bicol region.

1,000 50kg sacks of rice to around 10,000 families in the municipalities worst-hit by Typhoon Goni. Apart from Marinduque, OMF and Alagang Kapatid also conducted relief operations in Catanduanes, Guinayangan, Quezon, and in Camalig, Albay.

With the assistance of Alagang Kapatid and the Resort Owners Association of Mabini (“ROAM”), MPIF distributed 500 kgs of fresh vegetables to boatmen, their crews and families in Mabini, Batangas who were affected by both Typhoon Quinta and Typhoon Goni, and Maynilad provided 500 bottles of water.

Tulong Kapatid with PLDT-Smart Foundation, Metro Pacific Investments Foundation (“MPIF”), One Meralco Foundation (“OMF”) and TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation were quick to provide most needed relief to the affected areas, where thousands of homes were destroyed by the winds and coastal storm surges.

According to the United Nations (“UN”), 11 people were reported dead and the death toll may rise, and another deadly factor is the risk of catching COVID-19 in the crowded evacuation centers. The UN estimates that over 360,000 people are sheltering in the centers.

VITAL COMMUNICATIONS AND FOOD AID PLDT and Smart teams worked hard to restore telco services in the hard-hit provinces and mobilized communication aid where safe to do so. They continue to provide food aid in the Bicol region after sending an initial 6,000 grocery packs to Bicol and Marinduque. Additional food packs are being distributed with Tulong Kapatid and Alagang Kapatid.

Group operations were recognized with gratitude at the highest level of government. President Rodrigo Duterte’s spokesperson, Harry Roque praised PLDT-Smart, as did the Governor of the Marinduque Province, Presbitero J Velasco Jr. Meanwhile, Meralco and OMF, dispatched food care packages to 1,000 families who were still reeling from the devastation caused by the previous Typhoon Quinta, a few weeks earlier. Meralco also donated

20 THE VIEW

MERALCO SUPPORTS POWER RESTORATION Meralco joined the Power Restoration Rapid Deployment (“PRRD”)-Task Force Kapatid 2020 to expedite the restoration of electricity services in areas severely battered by Typhoon Goni. Working with the Department of Energy, the National Electrification Administration, Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association and the electric cooperatives in the affected provinces, Meralco deployed a 206-strong contingent of engineers, linemen, and supporting personnel for power restoration.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE

MERALCO ENERGIZES EDUCATION

M

eralco has been energizing schools in the Philippines’ remote communities for the past decade. Through its CSR arm, One Meralco Foundation (“OMF”), it provided electricity access to 245 schools across the country by the end of 2019.

This year, OMF had planned to energize at least 15 more schools, but the health crisis hampered the program’s implementation during the first half of the year. Now, it has resumed the important work of installing solar photovoltaic systems in 15 public schools in the islands of Western Samar in the Visayas and Masbate in Luzon. The timing is critical with the introduction of blended learning, an educational approach that combines online learning with traditional

methods. This year, public schools will not hold face-to-face classes, to prevent the further spread of the virus. Students will study at home using modules and worksheets, while teachers will hold lectures online and reach students via digital channels.

The Principal of one of the schools, Dennis Cubelo, described the hardship before the OMF intervention, “Whenever we needed to access a computer or the internet, we had to rent a boat to cross to the mainland. Usually, teachers draw from their own pockets to cover the costs. Now that their school has 24-hour electricity, teachers won’t have to brave oftentimes rough waters to be able to do their job.” <<

THE VIEW 21

AWARDS

PLDT wins fastest speed scores

PLDT in influential Top 100 citation

PLDT and Smart maintained their position as the Philippines’ fastest fixed broadband and mobile internet service providers.

PLDT was the only Philippine company to be included in the Top 100 Most Influential ICT Companies Driving Digital Inclusion Globally by the World Benchmarking Alliance (“WBA”).

A

ccording to leading internet analysis firm Ookla, in the first nine months this year, PLDT’s average download speed reached 30.6 Mbps which outperform the Philippine average of 26.08 Mbps. Smart’s average download speed of 19.45 Mbps also higher than the country’s average of 16.89 Mbps.

Opensignal latest report shown between the first quarter of 2017 and the end of the second quarter 2020, Smart’s 4G availability score rose by 27.8% points.

To ensure its reliable high-speed internet access, PLDT has continued its network expansion program despite pandemic conditions. As at end September 2020, total home passed by PLDT’s fixed-line fiber optic network rose to 8.3 million while the fiber footprint grew to about 394,700 cable kilometers – the Philippines’ most extensive digital data infrastructure. <<

A

ligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs”), the digital inclusion strategies cited by the WBA include education, societal development, gender equality, and livelihood programs, among others. Backed by PLDT network improvements, these initiatives are expected to help address the communication challenges of Filipinos in the new normal.

WBA Allies represent organizations working at global, regional, and local levels to shape the private sector’s contributions to achieving the SDGs and driving systemic progress. <<

PLDT, SMART WIN BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE AWARD PLDT and Smart were granted the 2020 Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award for their environmental stewardship program, Gabay Kalikasan, by the US-based Business Intelligence Group (“BIG”).

T

he BIG Sustainability Awards honor organizations that make sustainability an integral part of their business practice.

PLDT and Smart are the only Philippine companies to be recognized to date.

Gabay Kalikasan was launched by PLDT and Smart during the 2019 National Climate Change Awareness Month. Aimed at curbing the effects of climate change, Gabay Kalikasan leverages

22 THE VIEW

digital technology and PLDTSmart’s network to help protect and conserve Philippine rainforests, mangroves, marine life, and peatlands.

Projects in the pipeline include green merchandising and

renewable energy for cellsite infrastructures.

PLDT Group Chief Sustainability Officer Chaye A Cabal-Revilla noted, “Through Gabay Kalikasan, PLDT-Smart aim to raise the awareness of both employees and the public on the need to protect the environment, to pursue energy-efficient initiatives in operating our business, and to balance profitable operations and the need to join massive global efforts to address climate change.” <<

AWARDS

MERALCO WINS FIVE STEVIES Meralco and its corporate social responsibility arm, One Meralco Foundation (“OMF”), were honored in the 17th Annual International Business Awards - also known as the Stevie Awards - for its 2019 Sustainability Report and for four of its COVID response efforts.

The Bronze-winning Sustainability Report, Sustaining the Future, is a groundbreaking report highlighting the company’s commitment to place sustainability at the forefront while addressing the energy needs of a thriving nation. It is the first time that a maiden report has won a Stevie and the only winning Filipino Sustainability Report in 2020.

 Empowering People Through Partnerships

partnership of OMF with local government units in providing care packages to 7,891 families in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic Meralco Chairman Manuel V Pangilinan lauded the winning COVID-19 related initiatives, for “especially being recognized at a critical time of COVID.”

The other Bronze award winners are:  Help From Home – an online fund-raising

campaign that raised ₱2,806,902 to help vulnerable families  Free eShuttle for Frontliners – eSakay and OMF partnership to help the transportation needs of 76,364 frontliners in Manila  From Farmers to Frontliners – providing nutritious vegetables to 9,403 healthcare workers, 5,695 frontliners, and 3,365 marginalized families and boosting livelihoods of farming families from Benguet

Meralco President Ray C Espinosa said “We are very honored that Meralco’s first-ever Sustainability Report and our initiatives towards our sustainability agenda have been recognized on the global stage.

This achievement pushes the company to further focus our strategic direction towards sustainability, allowing us to provide affordable, accessible, reliable, and clean power, while protecting and preserving Mother Earth, cultivating a culture of excellence and stewardship in our organization, and fostering inclusive growth for a prosperous nation – truly powering the good life for all.” <<

THE VIEW 23

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL & GOVERNANCE

BASKETBALL’S JUMP SHOT

T

TO THE FUTURE

he Philippines’ national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, has been preparing for the imminent FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers, throughout COVID 19-related community quarantines. The national association - Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (“SBP”) created an eAcademy of instructional events and activities in a video series. The Coaches’ Academy is one of the pillars of the SBP and is led by Program Head Jong Uichico. SBP Director of Operations Butch Antonio said, “All these projects were well participated. One of our webinars had participants coming from our Southeast Asian neighbors. They also organized webinars specifically for women in basketball, in conjunction with FIBA’s objective to empower women in basketball.”

In September, FIBA announced that the upcoming two windows of the Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers will be staged differently from the usual home-and-away format.

They plan to hold the games in “bubbles”, each made up of 4 or 8 teams (one or two qualification groups). FIBA has strict health protocols for the games, including PCR testing and controlled entry and secure environments in competition locations.

Gilas Pilipinas holds a 1-0 record after beating Indonesia 100-70 in the opening window in February 2020.

GILAS TRIUMPHS IN ESPORTS SBP, through the leadership of President Alfredo S Panlilio and Executive Director Renauld N Barrios, participated in the 2020

24 THE VIEW

FIBA Esports Open in June 2020. This first-ever international Esports tournament was FIBA’s initiative to expand its family and grow the game of basketball.

The E-Gilas Pilipinas team dominated Indonesia by sweeping them with a 5-0 victory in the regional conference.

Antonio commented, “Our success in the recently concluded FIBA Esports Open 2020 can only be attributed to one thing...

Teamwork! The SBP worked together with those who are the experts in the sport, Smart Communications and Gariath Concepts. Together we were able to put up a very competitive team that won all of its 5 games in our head-to-head match against the Indonesian team.

Esports is a thriving sport. The Philippines can be a very strong contender in this. We are excited with its prospects.”

FIBA WORLD CUP 2023 The FIBA World Cup is coming back to the Philippines in 2023. SBP Chairman Emeritus Manuel V Pangilinan led the successful bid to co-host the tournament together with Japan and Indonesia.

Preparations for the co-hosting are underway with the Local Organizing Committees of each host country meeting regularly together with FIBA through video conference. SBP looks ahead as it gears up for the concerted work and coordination of the biggest basketball event in the history of the Philippines. <<

“

OUR SUCCESS IN THE RECENTLY CONCLUDED FIBA ESPORTS OPEN 2020 CAN ONLY BE ATTRIBUTED TO ONE THING... TEAMWORK! ESPORTS IS A THRIVING SPORT. THE PHILIPPINES CAN BE A VERY STRONG CONTENDER IN THIS. WE ARE EXCITED WITH ITS PROSPECTS.

”

SBP Director of Operations Butch Antonio

11/2020

PLDT’S FUTURE-PROOF OUTLOOK

5 Enterprise’s Cloud, connectivity, cyber security | 8 Indofood: food system resilience 11 COVID-19: flighting with innovation | 20 Typhoon Goni: restoration and relief

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