ACC:ESS August 2015 by PLDT Media

AUG 2015

THE OF F ICIAL PUBLIC AT IO N O F T H E P LD T G RO U P

#entertainment

Everywhere

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03 27 As recent partnerships with various international content providers like iflix and Fox

International Channels serving both homes and individuals as well as Smart’s amazing mobile apps Spinnr and Clash of Clans in the realm of music and games have been forged, PLDT has put so much premium on content. This issue’s cover from PLDT Media’s resident digital visual designer Daryll Sambat typifies all these compelling contents at one’s fingertips. Hence, there’s certainly nothing more to ask for when it comes to easily-accessible entertainment. #EntertainmentEverywhere

our cover

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From the Editor Mailbag Snapshots The Bandwagoner Life & Arts

news

02 PLDT sets record high capex in first half 2015 04 PLDT Group connects more customers to the cloud 05 PLDT HOME brings connectivity everywhere with new quadplay service 06 Smart targets young internet users with free Instagram offer 06 Sun Cellular launches free access to Facebook

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11 MVP receives 2015 RVR award for nation building 13 iflix, Fox Channels, Spinner, CoC Compelling content at your fingertips Cover Story 16 PLDT 2G, PSF donate eight new classrooms to Capiz schools 18 PLDT ComRel diver-volunteers support 7th MPIC “Shore it Up” 19 PLDT, PDRF lead Shakedrill activities 23 PLDT iCare program promotes employee concern on cable theft

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That’s entertainment

en Xers like me could still probably remember this popular teenybopper evening show in the 1980s. That’s Entertainment defined what television viewing is for the household then. With a different set of “entertainers” every day doing everything from singing to dancing, the show became a hit as it departed from the usual magazine and game shows at that time.

Mon R. lsberto Public Affairs Head

from their favorite sites. And it goes beyond videos. There is also a wide array of games and music that’s available in a few clicks.

EDITORIAL Butch G. Jimenez Editor Jay-Anne R. Encarnado Editor-in-Chief

Thus, the PLDT Group has gone beyond telephony and moved into content with the changing consumption of entertainment in the country. At the same time, we are making it easier for our subscribers to access these services through innovative bundling of fixed and wireless services.

Along with other TV regulars like Voltes V and Mazinger Z, these programs were the only content for entertainment available to my generation. Thus, it was not uncommon during that time to see kids glued to their TV screens in the afternoon so as not to miss any episode of their favorite show. Meanwhile, their moms would likely be listening to their favorite drama show on the radio. As we move into the digital economy, today’s children known as Generation Z who are born together with the internet are fortunate to have wider choices and greater access to their preferred pastime. Entertainment does not only mean a television show or a movie in a theater but it covers all types of video, including those downloaded from YouTube or streamed

Sennen F. Lacsamana Managing Editor Olive O. Barrozo Literary Editor Adrian T. Elumba Sarah Azucena-Reodica Raymond C. Co Writers Daniel G. Moratalla Jay F. Garcia Photographers

PLDT HOME earlier announced the bundling of mobile phones into its broadband services under the quadplay offering, making it the first telco to provide such service in the country. Thus, for one PLDT bill, subscribers can have voice, data, cable TV and a mobile service. For content, we have made TV shows and blockbuster movies available 24/7 in various devices through partnerships with different global providers. We have also made music more accessible via Spinnr where users can listen to the latest hits anytime. We are also now carrying the most popular games like Clash of Clans and making them readily available in mobile phones through prepaid GameX load.

Annie O. Salazar Arnel N. Samson Circulation Nonong F. Noriega Columnist Carlo D. Gonzalez Mark Daryll P. Sambat Graphic Design CONTRIBUTORS Cherry W. Alaban, Paul Edward Alvarez, Marie Celine Michelle F. Ampil, Melvin Artugue, Laemar John V. Chavez, Lawrence de Guzman, Annie J. Ferrer, Jay F. Garcia, Danny Handayan, Hannah Beatriz T. Lajara, Sarah Cielo Q. Meneses, Erlinda S. Ramos, Rebelyn Q. Rosales, Lilandra Grace M. Santiago, Alice P. Tuazon, JM Tuazon

Now, that’s entertainment everywhere! And it’s definitely a lot better.

Jay-Anne R. Encarnado

spotted!

ACC:ESS is published monthly by PLDT Media Division for employees and friends. Address all communications to: The Editor-in-Chief, ACC:ESS, Ramon Cojuangco Building, Makati Avenue, Makati City.

A woman minds her fruits and vegetables stall in Bangkok, Thailand but still finds some time to pore over the latest issue of ACC:ESS magazine.

MAILBAG

“I must formally put on record just how good this technician was and that I was really impressed – he was professional, competent, very thorough, customer focused, helpful and he exuded confidence. This man deserves some recognition and bonus for his good work. We cannot forget all the technicians who have come, but would not listen to the intermittent and persistent nature of the faults we had to put up with, and just looked at the modem for a couple of minutes, did nothing yet declared everything to be ok and then left only for the fault to recur shortly thereafter.” These were the words from very satisfied customers Narcisa and Ian Snow. They were referring to Senior Telecom Technician Carlito M. Josef from PLDT Marikina Customer Service Operations Zone for fixing their DSL connection. The Snows said in their email to Customer Care that Josef really wanted to help them and he knew what he was doing. And they would like to extend their gratitude to Josef because of his hard work and great customer service that the Company was spared from a mediation from NTC. CC:

Telephones 810-3190 and 8168515. Email: jrencarnado@pldt.com.ph http://issuu.com/pldtmedia

Josef

News Enjoying the new set-up, panelists, from left: PLDT Group Chief Financial Officer Anabelle L. Chua, PLDT and Smart Consumer Business Group Head Ariel P. Fermin, PLDT and Smart President and CEO Napoleon L. Nazareno, PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, PLDT Regulatory Affairs Head Ray C. Espinosa and PLDT Group Chief Strategy Officer Winston L. Damarillo answer queries from business reporters.

PLDT 2015 First Half Financial and Operating Results

PLDT sets record high capex to accelerate digital transformation PLDT has set a record-high capex to accelerate its digital transformation raising its capex guidance for 2015 to P43 billion including $100 million set aside for digital space in its announcement during the press briefing for first half financial and operating results held in Makati. “We are investing heavily in the ‘digital spine’ for our networks and platforms that will serve as the foundation for this transformative process and we expect to see the benefits of these initiatives to fully manifest themselves by 2016 at the earliest,” said PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. For the first six months, the Company’s Consolidated Core Net Income, before exceptional items, amounting to P18.9 billion, 5% or P0.9 billion lower than the P19.8 billion recorded in the same period last year. The decrease was due mainly to lower EBITDA reflecting the impact of expenses relating to the manpower reduction program, and higher financing costs, offset by gain from the sale of Meralco shares by Beacon. Reported Net Income, after reflecting exceptional transactions for the period, declined 6% to P18.7 billion, from P20.0 billion in the first half of 2014, as a result of the dip in core net income and net foreign exchange and derivative losses. EBITDA margin for the period was at 44%. Consolidated EBITDA for the first six months of 2015 was 7% lower at P35.5 billion compared with the same period last year due to lower service revenues from the wireless business,

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higher cash operating expenses, which include the costs arising from the manpower reduction program, and higher provisions. Consolidated service revenues for the period dropped by 2% to P81.2 billion, as revenues from the international and national long distance (ILD/NLD) segments continued their decline. Excluding ILD/NLD revenues of P10.2 billion, consolidated service revenues grew by 1% year-on-year, from P69.9 billion to P70.9 billion. Consolidated free cash flow for the first half of 2015 stood at P16.3 billion. Consolidated capital expenditures for the period amounted to P13.9 billion, nearly P6 billion higher than the capex level in the same period last year as investments were made in support of: :: Improved 3G and 4G access networks :: Increased fiber reach and capacity :: Enhanced indoor and outdoor coverage :: Continued network optimization :: Augmented network resiliency and redundancy :: Increased data center capacity :: Unified Smart-Sun network project to build operational efficiency The Group’s consolidated net debt remained stable at US$2.3 billion as at 30th June 2015, with net debt to EBITDA higher at 1.43x. Gross debt amounted to US$3.2 billion. The Group’s debt maturities continue to be well spread out, with over 60% due after 2017. The percentage of U. S, dollar-denominated debt to

the Group’s total debt portfolio is at 48%. Taking into account our peso borrowings, our hedges and our U. S. dollar cash holdings, only 32% of total debt remains unhedged. The Group’s cash and short-term securities are invested primarily in bank placements and Government securities. PLDT was the first Philippine company to be rated “investment grade” by three major international ratings agencies, namely Fitch Ratings, Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s. Earlier, the Company’s Board of Directors declared an interim regular dividend of P65 per share, representing 75% of First Half 2015 Core Earnings. Consumer The digital age has blurred the lines of the traditional separation between wireless and fixed line subscribers. More and more, digital consumers require seamless access and connectivity between “home and away.” Accordingly, PLDT has realigned its business segments to reflect this evolution and now looks at its wireless and fixed subscribers through the same digital lens. PLDT’s offerings are premised on providing its consumers “Entertainment Everywhere, Convenience Everywhere, Peace of Mind Everywhere.” Recent content partnerships, launched in the second quarter of 2015, serve both homes and individuals, both on a stand-alone and bundled basis. PLDT invested US$15 million in iFlix, a Subscription Video on Demand service that has more than 11,000 hours of top TV

03 shows and movies in its portfolio. iFlix also recently signed a landmark agreement with The Walt Disney Company (Southeast Asia) to carry the latter’s content as well. iFlix is currently available in the Philippines and Malaysia and will soon penetrate Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam. This was followed by an agreement with Fox International which will enable the PLDT Group’s subscribers to enjoy Fox content via live and catch-up TV as well as Video on Demand.

at the end of the first half of 2015, a 24% growth versus the same period last year and maintaining its lead over the 20-year incumbent. Revenues grew 55% compared with the first half of 2014. In April 2015, Cignal signed up with Bloomberg TV to launch Bloomberg Television Philippines, which will become the first 24-hour business channel in late 2015. It is also adding more original channels and creating its own content via a partnership with Viva Productions.

PLDT believes that content is the key to increased data/broadband usage, thereby fuelling revenue growth.

Digital The innovation teams at Voyager Innovations, Inc. (Voyager) and Smart e-Money, continue to churn out pioneering products in the digital space. Voyager generated consolidated revenues of over P500 million in the first six months of 2015 mainly from fintech/Smart Money, up by 21% from the same period last year.

Enterprise The PLDT Group is also uniquely positioned to serve the Enterprise sectors offering a suite of business solutions for corporates and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) powered by the PLDT network, including six data centers that offer co-location, server hosting/outsourcing, disaster recovery, connectivity and data scrubbing. These centers are telco-grade, carrier-neutral and vendor-agnostic with an aggregate rack capacity that is the largest in the country. Consolidated corporate data and other network services were higher 14% at P5.3 billion, riding on the 12% growth in corporate data and a 26% jump in data center revenues, “The upward momentum in the Enterprise segment continues, underpinned by revenues from datarich business solutions, data center, as well as from emerging cloud and big data services,” added Nazareno. Multimedia content Cignal TV has established itself as the country’s premier and largest pay TV provider. It continues to lead the industry with over 938,000 subscribers

Smart e-Money, for its part, continues to extend its reach. With a throughput of P83.7 billion in the first six months of 2015, it is the biggest domestic remittance platform in the Philippines. In addition, its payment gateway is being used by companies such as Zalora and Easy Taxi, with further launches in four Asian countries in the pipeline. It also recently entered into a partnership with Xoom, a leading digital money/remittance provided in the United States, for bills presentment. On the e-commerce side, TackThis has a community of about 23,000 merchants who have registered for online store front services, while Takatak, an online centralized marketplace, already features over 295,000 products. On the mobile financial solutions side, LockByMobile, an app which allows a mobile user to protect his credit card

accounts from widespread fraud using one’s mobile phone, is under evaluation by a number of global financial service providers. “Voyager will continue to generate a pipeline of possible “future winners”, including platforms, that could enhance PLDT’s value proposition,” stated Orlando B. Vea, Voyager President and CEO. Subscriber base The Group’s combined broadband subscriber base reached 4.9 million at the end of June 2015, 3.7 million of whom use wireless broadband mainly from Smart Broadband, Smart’s wireless broadband service offered through its wholly-owned subsidiary Smart Broadband, Inc. Another 1.2 million users subscribe to PLDT’s fixed broadband service. The fixed line subscriber base reached about 2.3 million at the end of the first half of 2015, about 53% of whom have fixed broadband subscriptions. Postpaid revenues now account for 23% of total cellular revenues, having improved by 12% to P11.6 billion for the first six months of 2015. The PLDT Group’s total cellular subscriber base at the end of the period stood at 68.9 million, broken down as follows: Smart had 25.3 million subscribers under its mainstream Smart brands; value brand Talk ‘N Text ended with 27.9 million subscribers; and there were 15.6 million Sun Cellular subscribers. The Group’s combined postpaid cellular subscriber base grew by over 461,000 from the first half of 2014 or over 253,000 from the end of 2014, rising to just over 3.0 million at the end of the period, while the combined prepaid base stood at 65.8 million.

Adding luster to the first half results press briefing are, from left: the #PLDT block letters serving as area for photo-ops and the PLDT and Smart #EntertainmentEverywhere booth showcasing the new offerings on nothing but

AUGUST 2015

04 “PLDT will capitalize on its unique ability to offer a seamless, connected consumer experience to our subscribers who are rapidly evolving to the digital space. Our value proposition will provide connectivity + entertainment + peace-of-mind + convenience,” stated PLDT and Smart President and CEO Napoleon L. Nazareno. Toll revenues “The rapid decline in our toll revenues continues to bear down heavily on our medium-term revenue growth, with the onslaught of the internet causing adverse substitution. The annualized impact of this decrease is P4-P5.0 billion for the full year 2015 and toll traffic could reduce even faster in the coming months as smart phone penetration accelerates. Notwithstanding this drag from our legacy businesses, there is a need to focus on enhancing our customers’ digital experience. This will involve build out of the Company’s 3G and 4G/LTE networks, enhancing network resiliency to ensure operational reliability, stability and quality of service, revamp of our service development platforms to handle more data-centric offers, and re-organization of our branding across the board with a view to positioning each brand better and optimizing the value of each brand. Consequently, capex levels will remain elevated in 2015, and in 2016, at the least. “The goal is to be nothing less than the consumer’s preferred digital services provider. And the Company will achieve this by offering the consumer a superior value proposition by continuously broadening the array of its products and service offers, including leveraging on fixed and wireless assets, underpinned by a network that will enable a quality customer experience. We are investing heavily in the “digital spine” for our networks and platforms that will serve as the foundation for this transformative process and we expect to see the benefits of these initiatives to fully manifest themselves by 2016 at the earliest,” said Pangilinan. CC:

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PLDT Group connects more customers to the cloud with Microsoft program PLDT and ePLDT recently announced its inclusion in the Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider Program elevating its status so it can directly offer Microsoft Cloud Services to its customers. The program enables PLDT to customize its cloud service packages combining Microsoft Cloud services with its own product offerings to answer varying requirements, directly handle billing, as well as directly provision, manage, and support the solutions delivered. “Cloud technologies have become increasingly popular due to its cost efficiency, reliability and ease of deployment,” said FVP and Head of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise Jovy Hernandez. “Our goal has always been to provide our customers with the innovative tools and the unparalleled support they need to become more competitive and elevate their businesses, and being a Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider empowers us to deliver on that promise.” Microsoft Corp. Worldwide Partner Group Corporate Vice President said they were thrilled to expand the capabilities for cloud partners under the Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider Program to meet the growing demand of our cloudbased solutions. “By joining the Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider Program, partners will deepen customer relationships and expand business opportunities in the cloud,” he said.

PLDT’s cloud solutions portfolio is replete with a wide array of innovative cloud solutions meant to help enterprise organizations grow their business through technology. These include Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), Microsoft Office 365, Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS), and Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS). PLDT has also undergone recent infrastructure upgrades to beef up its support capabilities as it meets the growing demand for cloud solutions. ePLDT’s superior technical support will also enable customers to get the most out of their cloud services. “As the market leader in digital infrastructure and ICT, ePLDT ensures that we deliver not only innovative solutions but also reliable support,” said ePLDT Group Chief Operations Officer Nerissa Ramos. “With our team of technical experts, we enable our customers to take full advantage of their ICT investments and harness the cloud’s capabilities to optimize gains for their business.” CC:

PLDT HOME brings connectivity

everywhere with new quadplay service PLDT HOME is setting the bar for ultimate connectivity with the introduction of quadplay, adding a mobile package to its suite of already industry-leading services.

250Mb Internet data; and unlimited music streaming via Spinnr every month, all conveniently charged to just one PLDT bill.

PLDT/Smart EVP and Consumer Business Group Head Ariel P. Fermin said, “We are once more leveraging our integrated approach to connectivity as our data, voice, and Cignal over fiber services are packaged with a mobile bundle. This further solidifies our leadership in the broadband market.”

“The quadplay service will reinforce the trusted benefits of PLDT HOME brands. With this offer, we will be able to offer our customers a one-stop shop for all their communications and multimedia needs, enabling them to experience a richer digital lifestyle,” said PLDT VP and Head of Home Marketing Gary G. Dujali.

“For this quadplay service, we’re pleased to have on our side the country’s leading mobile provider Smart Communications to help us bring connectivity and convergence to a whole new level,” Fermin added.

“Bundling a data-rich mobile phone service with their fixed line services enables HOME customers to enjoy a wide range of digital services outside their homes, wherever they may be,” he added.

More than one million PLDT HOME subscribers may now avail of the exclusive quadplay service for just an additional P500 per month with a free iPhone. This new offer also provides HOME customers with free 500 minutes worth of calls to Smart and PLDT landline subscribers; 2,000 SMS to all mobile networks;

The quadplay offer will be available nationwide and is also seen as key to expanding PLDT Group’s subscriber base, which already accounts for over 70 percent of the country’s competitive broadband market. PLDT HOME’s new quadplay service add-on comes at the heels of its

PLDT and Smart EVP and Consumer Business Group Head Ariel P. Fermin is pleased to note that more than a million PLDT HOME subscribers can now avail of the exclusive quadplay sedrvice reinforcing the trusted benefits of PLDT HOME brands. groundbreaking launch of triple play service for PLDT HOME DSL subscribers in partnership with Cignal early this year and with the recent cutting-edge partnerships with two global content providers—iflix and Fox. These strategic partnerships allow over 75 million Filipinos to experience entertainment at home and on the go. CC:

AUGUST 2015

Smart targets young Filipino internet users with free Instagram offer

Smart is training its sights on the younger set of Filipino consumers, or the so-called ‘millennial’ market, with its free Instagram offer that gives users access to the hugely popular photo-sharing mobile service without additional data charges. Acknowledged as the group of consumers leading digital adoption worldwide, these young consumers are leading the market in terms of discovering new social networks, including services like Instagram. “We know Instagram is growing fast in popularity among young Filipinos. In fact, ‘selfies’ they posted on Instagram were the basis of a 2014 TIME Magazine story which

announced our free Instagram offer in response to the changing behavior among young Filipinos, who are more visually oriented and who love to take photos and instantly share them with friends. Smart is the one leading the charge for them to experience these new services as part of our ‘Smart Life’ initiative.”

named Makati City as the ‘selfie capital of the world’,” said Smart EVP and Consumer Business Group Head Ariel P. Fermin. “We have

The free Instagram offer was made available to prepaid subscribers so they can enjoy free Instagram browsing and posting for up to 30MB per day with any popular prepaid promos that include All Text 20, Unli Call & Text 30, All in 99 and Mega 250, among many others. Users who subscribe to any of Smart’s Surf Plus Plans, meanwhile, will instantly be able to enjoy the Free Instagram offer as part of their freebie app bundle for 30 days. JM Tuazon, Smart Public Affairs

Sun Cellular launches

free access to Facebook anytime, anywhere Sun Cellular recently launched its free access to Facebook to prepaid and postpaid subscribers, allowing them to enjoy Facebook all-day, the practical way. Subscribers can now enjoy free access to Facebook anytime and anywhere on their mobile phones to stay in touch with family and friends without worrying about data charges or having to scan free WiFi hotspots around their neighborhood. Sun’s latest offer comes on the heels of its insightful ‘Choose Better’ campaign, which encourages mobile phone users to examine their choices and make sure they are getting the most value out of their hard-earned money. “Sun gives you the best-value for money options with its wide

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range of feature-packed plans and promos,” said Sun Vice President Joel Lumanlan. “And now, with this offer, Sun strengthens its line-up of already compelling services so that all your communication needs are covered – from calls, texts, mobile Internet and this time staying in touch with your family and friends on Facebook.” Sun’s free access to Facebook experience works on all datacapable phones, including smartphones and basic phones. Smart and Talk ‘N Text subscribers may also enjoy the same Free FB experience on their phones. Lawrence de Guzman, Smart Brand Equity Management

PLDT SME Nation, Smart Enterprise enable

public bus tracking PLDT SME Nation and Smart Enterprise are enabling the pilot run of public utility bus (PUB) operators to install global positioning system (GPS) monitoring devices in their units to help track and regulate vehicle activities and promote commuter safety. As part of the pilot program being promoted by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), PLDT has partnered with G Liner bus franchise owner De Guia Enterprises, Inc. to have their units installed with GPS monitoring devices. Initial G Liner buses will be fitted with PLDT SME Nation’s Track & Trace, a GPS-enabled field asset tracking solution, to help monitor the bus units’ speed on the road, track units operating in their proper routes, enable operators to respond quickly for units that break down, and help locate missing buses. The device works 24/7 providing online access to maps, color-coded grouping of people and location, alerts and alarms if their vehicle exceeds parameters

set for geo-fencing, as well as real-time log reports back to the operators. “PLDT fully supports this effort in helping improve road safety and curb vehicle accidents that endanger lives and property. We have fervently evangelized the benefits of helping business owners with technology, and these solutions not only equip them with better tools for their business but also help ensure that their customers and passengers on the road are in better hands,” said PLDT FVP and SME Business Head Kat Luna-Abelarde. G Liner bus passengers can also connect freely to the buses’ Wifi connectivity through PLDT’s WiFun. “G Liner strives to provide the public with a safe and affordable means of transportation. By using the latest technologies from Smart we are able to monitor our buses to ensure the safety of our passengers. At the same time, operations is also improved,”

said G Liner Project Manager Ryan Groves. “By providing access to the internet, passengers can be more productive and commuting will be a little more enjoyable. Hopefully initiatives like our partnership with Smart will help convince the public to take public transportation and be part of the solution to Metro Manila traffic.” Through the pilot program, LTFRB, and its parent agency, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), will now be able to check on the location and speed of the buses on national roads and highways that should not exceed 60 kilometers per hour (kph) for city buses and 80 kph for provincial operators. PLDT has initially installed GPS devices on some of G Liner’s buses for the pilot program but will soon connect all city and provincial units once fully rolled out. Adrian T. Elumba

PLDT has initially installed GPS devices on some of G Liner’s buses for the pilot program but will soon connect all city and provincial units once fully rolled out.

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08 Photo shows Del Rosario, seated, 6th from left; with Apalit, Pampanga Vice Mayor Peter Nucum, seated 7th from right; Sangguniang Bayan Secretary Glen Danting, 9th from right; Municipal Tourism Officer Kenneth Nunang, 4th from left; officers and members of Apalit fisherfolks and Pampanga employee-volunteers in a posterity shot with the beneficiaries.

PLDT donates multi-purpose boxes to apalit fisherfolkS As part of its livelihood initiatives, PLDT through Community Relations headed by Evelyn M. Del Rosario recently donated 301 pieces fiber glass re-usable multi-purpose boxes to the Nagkakaisang Mamalakaya ni Apung Iru (fisherfolks of Apalit,

Pampanga). The boxes will be used as fish containers. The officers and all the members were very grateful to PLDT for its continuous support to improve and change their lives. The fishnets and

other fishing materials donated by MVP last year helped a lot to sustain their everyday needs and these additional donations will help a lot to increase their income. Alice P. Tuazon, PLDT Community Relations

PSF, MVPSF turn over new sports equipment to PUP giving a speech early this year here in the campus, MVP noted the lack of adequate sports equipment of some teams he saw. He asked PSF to acquire some of these needed sports equipment, and donate them to PUP. So as soon as classes resumed, we have come to turn over the sports equipment, in fulfillment of our Chairman’s commitment to PUP.” Santos also shared the story of how MVP was inspired to furnish the needs of the university’s sports programs.

PSF led by its President Ma. Esther Santos, center, together with Smart and the MVP Sports Foundation work in the spirit of teamwork to help improve the sports programs of Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Following PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan’s recent speech at the Annual HR Student Convention of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) during which he pledged to support the development of the school’s sports programs, PLDTSmart Foundation (PSF) recently turned over new sports equipment and gears

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for basketball, volleyball, and badminton as well as new nets and other sports paraphernalia to the school president Dr. Emmanuel De Guzman. “This donation is in response to our Chairman, MVP’s request to support PUP with some sports equipment,” said PSF President Esther O. Santos. “After

MVPSF also gave away #PUSO2019 shirts to the PUP staff and student body to be reminded of MVP’s dream for the country to host one of the biggest international sports tournaments, the FIBA World CUP 2019. The students of PUP were also asked to support this dream of bringing 32 international teams to the country by using the #PUSO2019 when they post on their social media accounts. SMART Sports also donated 50 basketballs to the school in addition to the donations from PSF. Hannah Beatriz T. Lajara, Student-Trainee, UP Manila

snapshots PLDT, Smart honored at 2015 BSP Stakeholders Awards

PLDT and Smart were recently honored during the 2015 Bangko Sentral ng Piiipinas (BSP) Stakeholders Awards, an annual celebration of strong partnerships and successful collaborations spanning 12 years forged with various institutions and stakeholders in pursuit of a common goal of building better lives for all Filipinos. Under foreign direct investment survey, PLDT was awarded Outstanding Respondent in the Coordinated Portfolio Investment Survey while Smart was given the award for Outstanding Respondent for Transactions Coursed through Bank Accounts Abroad under the Cross Border Transactions Survey. Photo shows PLDT FinRepCon Sector Head and Smart Chief Financial Officer Chaye Cabal-Revilla receiving the award on behalf of PLDT. She is flanked here by Chairman of the Monetary Board and BSP Governor Amando M. Tetangco, right, and Monetary Board Member and Chairman of the Board of Judges Juan D. De Zuñiga, Jr.

PLDT SME Nation, DelNet partner to promote VSAT solution PLDT SME Nation recently forged its partnership with DelNet International Corporation as the latter solidified its commitment in serving local SMEs as their partner for growth. The communication and navigation equipment sales and service specialist Delnet will help market PLDT’s VSAT (Very Small and Aperture Terminal) – a satellite technology that enables broadband, voice, and VPN in areas without fixed and wireless facilities. Through this partnership, PLDT SME Nation and DelNet aim to equip businesses in the country with fast and reliable connectivity that would empower them to compete locally and globally. In photo are, from left: PLDT SME Nation ICT Solutions Category Head Christian Lim, AVP and Head for Regional Luzon Anthony Fernandez, DelNet Corp. AVP for Sales and Marketing Edgar Beltran, PLDT FVP and Head of SME Business Kat Luna-Abelarde, DelNet Corp. CEO Klaas Oreel, PLDT SME Nation AVP and Head of Marketing Amil Azurin, Data Solutions Category Head Mark Leviste, and Client Solutions Services Head Arman Garcia.

EmpDev head speaks during 8th National HR summit Attitudinal enablers to performance vs. hindering forces to productivity, the work environment that breeds winners vs. the toxic atmosphere that programs defeat were clearly articulated during the 8th National HR Summit when EmpDev AVP Nonong Noriega took the helm as the finale speaker. Around 400 HR practitioners across the country gathered in this annual learning event produced by Powermax Consulting Group, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Creative Max Advertising & Merchandising Company. Noriega regaled the audience with hard-hitting reality checks in a folksy demeanor as he deep dived into behavioral syndromes and team behavior that impact productivity. Convention theme was billed as “Engaged Human Resource – Recruit, Retrain and Reward.” Also shown here is summit host and former vocalist of Alamid Carl McFly interviewing Noriega following the memorable session. AUGUST 2015

PLDT SME Nation declares July as Small Business Month PLDT SME Nation declared the entire month of July as Small Business Month in honor of its commitment in ensuring the digital capabilities of today’s small-andmedium enterprises (SMEs). Small Business Month is a first-of-its-kind revolution that aims to empower and enable small businesses to dominate the digital space by educating them on useful business practices, providing them with financial tools and equipping them with digital business solutions to better serve the evolving customer. Shown here during the formal launch of PLDT SME Nation’s Small Business Month are, from left: PNB Executive Vice President Jun Audencial, Jr., Go Negosyo Founding Trustee Joey Concepcion, PLDT EVP and ePLDT President and CEO Eric Alberto, PLDT First Vice President and Head of SME Business Kat LunaAbelarde, PRA Vice Chairman for International Relations Bobby Claudio, and Google Philippines Country Manager Ken Lingan.

PLDT ComRel Head attends PLDT scholars graduation PLDT Community Relations Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario, extreme right, recently graced the graduation of PLDT scholars from the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) in Los Baños, Laguna. Del Rosario is shown here with UP President Alfredo E. Pascual, 3rd from left and with graduates Joana Felisa Guevara, 2012 PLDT myDSL Broadband Quiz third runner-up from Taguig Science High School; 2012 PLDT myDSL Broadband Quiz second runner-up Crisinta Rogelio from Lucena National High School.b Annie J. Ferrer, PLDT Community Relations

PLDT Innolab conducts training for ClarkTel’s clients PLDT ClarkTel and PLDT Innolab jointly organized a technical development course recently for ClarkTel’s valued iGate subscriber. The four-day training on “Internetworking Essentials,” covering Cisco 1 up to Cisco 4, was conducted by PLDT Training Officer Pol Lukban. During the training, Regine Ladrillo, PLDT ICT Research & Innolab, introduced PLDT’s latest technologies with a brief tour of the facility. Shown in photo are the training mentor and participants.

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FEATURE

Retired Chief Justice and chairman of the board of judges Artemio V. Panganiban, left, confers upon MVP, center, the 2015 RVR Award for Nation Building. Witnessing the event is Phinma President and CEO Ramon V. Del Rosario, Jr.

2015 RVR Award for Nation Building MVP cited for his exemplary corporate citizenship

n recognition of his outstanding contributions to nationbuilding and exemplary corporate citizenship, PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan was conferred the 2015 Ramon V. Del Rosario Sr. Award for Nation Building presented annually by the JCI Manila together with the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) RVR Center for Corporate Responsibility. Over the past two decades, Pangilinan has been a stalwart in today’s local business scene leading game-changing milestones for some of the country’s biggest companies, and directing corporate foundations for various causes. Pangilinan is the latest recipient of this lifetime achievement business leader award of highly celebrated leaders and businessmen in the country. Previous award winners were Jaime Zobel de Ayala (2014), Vicente Paterno (2013), Washington Sycip (2012), Oscar Lopez (2011), and Amb. Jesus Tambunting and Senen Bacani (2010). Most recognized, influential As Managing Director and CEO of First Pacific, MVP is responsible for the rapid expansion of the company in the region and chairs some of the country’s most valuable publiclylisted companies in the country. Pangilinan also heads several foundations including the PLDT-Smart Foundation, Philippine Business for Social Progress, IdeaSpace Foundation, One Meralco Foundation, Tulong Kapatid, MVP Sports Foundation, and the Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation. He has also made major contributions in the field of sports with his participation in the local and international arena such as the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (formerly Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines), Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), and recently being elected a seat in the FIBA Central Board. His many accomplishments in various fields have made Pangilinan one of the country’s most recognized and influential business leader. He credits his success to many years of hard work, the help of his colleagues and the basic values instilled in him by his family. First steps It was at the Philippine Investment Management, Inc. (Phinma) where he took his first steps in his long-term career in finance and investments. For six years, he was the executive assistant to the president where he took mentorship under Phinma founders Filemon C. Rodriguez and the late Ambassador Ramon V. Del Rosario Sr. – after whom this award was named.

By Adrian T. Elumba

After his stint with Phinma, MVP left Manila for Hong Kong as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) to become the executive director at investment bank, Bancom International. He went there with four business suits, two pairs of shoes and a burning ambition to succeed. A few years after, his business-savvy and discipline with financial matters led him to start off his own company in 1981 with six people working in a few square meters of office space and a modest amount of starting capital. Under his helm, this start-up company has become a leading investment firm in the region, First Pacific. Driven by a desire to give back to his country and support his countrymen, Pangilinan, through First Pacific, returned to the Philippines and began a series of investments under the umbrella of Metro Pacific Corporation. First Pacific eventually bought into the country’s biggest telecommunications company PLDT. Under his leadership, PLDT evolved from being a traditional telephone company into the country’s leading digital communications services group. Through Metro Pacific, Pangilinan has helped build the nation through major investments in power distribution and energy innovations, urban water concession, network of road tollways, as well as upgraded hospitals and health services. Through his different companies, he led programs and initiatives that has not only helped the businesses and changed the lives of their customers but has also those of the communities they serve. Worthy of honor and emulation The annual RVR Award recognizes individuals who have proven themselves worthy of honor and emulation, and have demonstrated outstanding traits in entrepreneurial spirit, national or global business impact, corporate citizenship and social responsibility – the very traits epitomized by the late Ambassador Ramon V. Del Rosario Sr. The award also aims to raise awareness about responsible citizenship, and the pursuit of progress among entrepreneurs, businessmen and professionals and is given to the person who best possesses these criteria. The RVR award was first launched in 2009 named after the late ambassador, the founder of Phinma and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP). The award is designed not only to honor the man as the Manila Jaycees’s founding president, but also to keep alive in the present and in the future leaders of Philippine business the spirit of nation-building through responsible entrepreneurship, the hallmark of RVR’s career. CC:

AUGUST 2015

MVP ON NATION BUILDING Excerpts from his Speech After receiving the 2015 RVR Award

ark Twain once said that you could live for a month on one compliment – the generous words of this award have just assured me of immortality.

Thank you so much for this honor, coming from a proud and grateful son of PHINMA. My thanks to the board of judges, chaired by Former Chief Justice Panganiban, for their very kind gesture. I’m usually not given to accepting tributes, but the RVR Award is exceptional, and personally gratifying. PHINMA gave me my first job – after Procter and Gamble turned down my application, despite being their scholar at Wharton. The PHINMA story Carlos Palanca famously told RVR that he was a “fool” to leave Philamlife at the young age of 35 to establish a company of his own. RVR’s reply, immortalized in the PHINMA story, was simply to point to the well-spring of his daring: “I am young enough to make a mistake,” he told Palanca. “If I wait any longer, I’d be too scared.”

I must confess to my gunrunning days in Siasi – procuring armalites, bullets, browning automatic rifle, an armored jeep, and other assorted armaments for our security force. On one of those trips, Oscar and I returned to Manila with a bullet hole in the PHINMA plane’s left wing. As to securing the plantation, I was inspired by the Vietnam war and thought: why not build a trench around the plantation perimeter 12 kilometers long, about half the length of EDSA, with poisoned spikes. When I presented to the Filagro board this “brilliant” solution, FCR looked at me with amusement; RVR of bewilderment – mixed with that expression – “I can’t believe what I’m hearing.” Lesson # 2 – Keep it real. If RVR were PHINMA’s right side of the brain, FCR was the left side of it. FCR was analytical and conservative, RVR creative and enterprising. FCR was subtle and Filipino, RVR direct and western. RVR was the sledgehammer, FCR the sharp blade. Despite their contrasting styles, they made the perfect management alchemy.

MVP recalls how his business acumen started with his PHINMA story.

After PHINMA, I took my own risk by emigrating to Hong Kong, taking inspiration from RVR’s example. Nowadays, I always tell our students, and young entrepreneurs, to – “be bold because you’re young enough to fail.”

I joined PHINMA in 1970. PHINMA was already a leader in Philippine business then, and many young men and women were keen to work for PHINMA. And RVR made sure PHINMA procured the best young talents available – or as the Jesuits say – quam plurimi et quam aptissimi – as many as possible of the very best. But it wasn’t only the success for which it was known that people joined. It was also, more importantly, the pride in being Filipino. A Filipino firm emerging from post-war Manila which believed in our people, whose core values in building managerial competence and excellence coupled with integrity, have endured since its founding. Many lessons learned I actually joined the PHINMA Group as Executive Assistant to the President of Filoil marketing, Titong Chuidian. One of the earlier tasks Titong asked me to do, I was still very young then, was to recommend an increase in the petty cash fund that he himself approves. Wanting to showboat my newly-minted Wharton degree, I studiously looked into this, and submitted a six-page memo full of numbers and statistical analysis. Titong called me to his office and with my memo on hand, casually said – “Let’s just raise this from 2,000 to 5,000 pesos a month.” So Lesson # 1 – Keep it short and simple.

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I was also assigned to oversee PHINMA’s coconut plantation in Siasi, Sulu. One afternoon in April 1970, I received a message by single side band radio from Siasi – “plantation under attacked. Udjah Umbat killed.” Muslim squatters and our security detail had a skirmish that morning, and their leader was killed in the encounter. I had to fly to Siasi, assess the situation, including the prospect of securing a 1,000 hectare plantation by the sea.

Finally, I was also assigned to supervise PHINMA’s sugar plantation in Negros. This included the selling of raw sugar, evidenced by Quedans or warehouse receipts. I sold our sugar through Warner Barnes – our usual broker/ dealer. On the day that we had to turn over the Quedans, to my horror, we were short. I had no recourse but to buy from the market. A check was prepared to settle. I dreaded sending the check to RVR, so i sent it to FCR instead. The check came back signed – but with a note of gentle rebuke – “Manny, I thought we’re selling sugar, not buying them.” Lesson # 3 – Tell the truth. Always. Thus three invaluable lessons learned – keep it simple, keep it real, tell the truth. A look at the future So much of the past. Turning to contemporary times and our thoughts on nation-building – you may ask, how do we at First Pacific regard the enormous task of nation building? Nation building must be considered with reference to the basic purpose of men and institutions – the growth of welfare. The test of their efficiency will ultimately rest on some standard by which each performs its respective tasks

in improving the lives of our people. The RVR award is not given solely for aesthetics or prestige – it comes with the stern admonition to continue the work of a man who lit the fire in so many of us to greatness.

Businesses today operate in a Darwinian landscape. It will not be the biggest or smartest amongst us which will survive – but those most adaptive to change.

But there’s poverty standing in the way of nation building, and to prosperity. Poverty is the enemy – addressing it must be the business of business. The optimum solution, in our view, is more jobs – not just the quantum of jobs created but jobs capable of inducing a trickle -down effect on the poor.

3. The halcyon days of manufacturing – bricks and mortars, iron and smokestacks – are over. A new era of technology and innovation is upon us, emphasizing the supremacy of intellectual capital. That’s why this country has to move closer to IT, engineering and the sciences.

This fundamental ideology defines who we are, and what we do at, First Pacific.

Look at Uber and Airbnb – they didn’t exist a few years back. But Uber is now the largest transportation company in the world with a reputed market value of $50 billion. Airbnb is the biggest lodging company with a market value of $24 billion. And yet neither one owns a single asset – no motor vehicle or hotel room.

The First Pacific way Thus viewed, inclusive and sustainable growth provides the premise on how we conduct our businesses at First Pacific– selecting the investments which can achieve the twin goals of a decent return on investment, and abating poverty and sharing prosperity. This is why we’ve invested in public infrastructure like tollways to open up new economic corridors, power and water to supply basic utilities, and hospitals to provide social safety nets. In addition, we think we should all consider these opportunities to help alleviate poverty: First, businesses unique to their geographic and resource advantages, such as tourism and mining. Most of these are located in the rural areas where poverty exists. Second, businesses that are byproducts of our labor migration, like medical tourism and retirement homes. Third, agriculture. 72% of our people belong to the D and E clusters. And 70% of our poor live in rural areas. A stagnant agricultural sector exacerbates rural poverty, and incubates an enclave urban poor economy, by forcing massive migration into our cities. Our laws on agricultural development are simply not investor-friendly. We need to encourage large-scale commercial farming by re-considering our agrarian reform law. Witness the success of large scale agriculture in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, where hectareages are made available in the hundreds of thousands. Our overarching goal must be to feed our people first. Fourth, technology. These past two years, we’ve spent time at Silicon Valley to immerse ourselves in a totally different world. What Brian Chesky, founder of Airbnb, told us last May, describes the reason for our visits – “If you think about it, Airbnb is a giant ship. As CEO, I’m the captain of the ship. But I really have two jobs. The first is to worry everything below the waterline which can sink the ship. The second are areas I’m passionate about – product, brand, and culture.” Let me share three key take-away lessons from the Valley: 1. Failure is not frowned upon. If you must fail, fail fast and move on. One of the common quotes we heard comes from Samuel Beckett, who wrote: “Ever tried, ever failed, no matter. Try again, fail again, fail better.” 2. Disruption is happening anytime, anywhere – not only in telcos but now in the power industry and elsewhere.

A boy named Nico Every year, we sponsor a medical mission to my hometown of Apalit, Pampanga. We give out prosthetics, crutches, wheelchairs, medicine, food and medical assistance to the poor. The lines are dishearteningly long. The saddest part is that some of these ailments are not the result of a cruel twist of fate – but of preventable, poverty-related causes. For example, cleft palates caused by folic acid deficiency, reflects maternal malnutrition – which, in turn, is rooted in poverty. I met a young man from Concepcion, Tarlac named Nico who lost his leg while playing basketball. But that was not the real tragedy. Given up as useless at age 16, he had stopped schooling, and had lost hope. I asked to meet his family, and quietly offered our help. We cannot give up too soon on the Nicos in our midst, I know that when you’ve lost your leg, or when you’re sleeping on the floor of your shanty, or sitting on the steps of your flooded home, it is hard to imagine any future. But we must believe that that future will come, that after dark nights must come bright mornings. Finally, India’s first Prime Minister Nehru captured the essence of what we all should strive to achieve as we build this nation. Nehru said, in August 1947, on the eve of Indian independence and soon after the assassination of his mentor, Mahatma Gandhi: “The achievement we celebrate today is but a step, an opening of opportunity to the greater triumphs and achievements that await us. The service of India means the service of the millions who suffer. It means ending poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity. The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every eye. That may be beyond us, but as long as there are tears and suffering, our work will not be over.” Whilst our work in our country is indeed far from over, may everyone in this room resolve to wipe every tear – in every eye – of every Filipino. If RVR were here with us tonight, I’m quite sure he would agree. CC:

AUGUST 2015

cover story

C o C , r n n i p S , s l e n n a h c x o F , iflix fingertips

r u o y t a t n e t n o c g n Compelli By Olive

zo O. Barro

iflix “PLDT invested US$15 million in iflix, a Subscription Video-On-Demand (SVOD) service that has more than 11,000 hours of top TV shows and movies in its portfolio. iflix has also recently signed a landmark agreement with the Walt Disney Company (Southeast Asia) to carry the latter’s content as well,” Nazareno added.

Always at the forefront of entertainment, content has maintained its prominence in the digital age. With an added bonus. People can now readily access a wide array of content at their most convenient time and place.

iflix will offer consumers popular TV serials and updated catalogue of Hollywood, European, and Asian releases, as well as shows like Sherlock, Doctor Who, Homeland, and The Big Bang Theory. Streamed through PLDT and mobile subsidiary Smart networks, these shows are available on five devices, such as smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, and TV.

he charm of compelling content is as irresistible as shoes or maybe Starbucks. It keeps us awake and engaged the entire night and inspires our days, making us sashay through our activities no matter how hectic. It’s one of the main reasons why we buy the latest gadgets – to be able to watch our favorite shows, movies, and play games wherever we are, whenever we want.

At PLDT, content is being given great significance as the country’s multimedia and telecoms industry frontrunner forges partnerships with various international content providers like iflix and Fox International Channels. “Our recent content partnerships, launched in the second quarter of 2015, serve both homes and individuals, both on a stand-alone and bundled basis,” PLDT President and CEO Napoleon L. Nazareno said during PLDT’s first half financial and operating results press briefing.

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“From small escapes like whenever you’re stuck in traffic, to binge-watching rare moments when time is on your side, subscribers now have the access to the widest library of entertainment content with iflix. It gets so much better because you are able to gain access to these titles through PLDT HOME and Smart’s strongest and largest multimedia platforms wherever you are in the Philippines,” said PLDT EVP and Head of Consumer Business Ariel P. Fermin at the launch of PLDT HOME and Smart’s partnership with iflix.

Fox According to Nazareno, “iflix was followed by an agreement with Fox International Channels which will enable the PLDT Group’s subscribers to enjoy Fox content via live and catchup TV as well as Video-On-Demand (VOD). PLDT believes that content is the key to increased data/broadband usage, thereby fuelling revenue growth.” The partnership will allow PLDT HOME and Smart subscribers to access popular VOD content from Fox, along with the top-up service which will enable them to view nine live Fox channels including three channels for Fox Sports, National Geographic, NatGeo People, NatGeo Wild, Fox News, Channel M, and Star Chinese Channel.

wherever they are – whether at home or on the go,” Fermin pointed out. “We are delighted to deliver this range of educational, sports, lifestyle, and movie content from Fox that will suit the entertainment wants and needs of our customers, whenever and wherever they want.” Spinnr and CoC In the realms of music and games, Smart offers amazing mobile apps Spinnr and Clash of Clans (CoC).

The VOD service also features the top-rating series Walking Dead, among others, while blockbuster movies available via catch-up TV include Guardians of the Galaxy, Hancock, Angels and Demons, Big Hero 6, and How to Train Your Dragon 2. Headlining catch-up TV and Live offers are the international sports events such as Wimbledon that can now be viewed anytime, anywhere by Filipinos. “This content partnership with Fox makes world-class entertainment easily accessible to all our subscribers

Awarded as Mobile World Congress’ Best Music App, Spinnr is currently providing daily soundtracks to more than one million music users in the country.

Meanwhile, Smart also celebrates CoC, the world’s top mobile game, by mounting the Philippine Clash 2015, the country’s biggest nationwide CoC tournament with over P2.3 million prizes. CoC is one of the many mobile games which Smart Prepaid, Postpaid and Smart Bro subscribers may enjoy using big Bytes 50, a full-packed mobile data offer. With all these compelling contents at your fingertips, is there anything else to ask for in terms of easily-accessible entertainment? Nothing more, it seems. You just have to sit back, wherever you choose to be, and enjoy everything life - and your gadgets - has to offer. With reports from Lawrence de Guzman, Smart Brand Equity Management

AUGUST 2015

Pupils of Pontevedra Elementary School happily welcome their brand new classrooms.

The new four-classroom building in Mambusao National High School.

eight new classrooms from PLDT 2G, PSF

Happier schooldays ahead for two Capiz schools By Olive O. Barrozo

“T

hese are the best classrooms in Capiz. We’re very thankful to PLDT Gabay Guro (2G) and PLDT Smart Foundation (PSF) for giving them to us. Rest assured that we will take good care of them,” Principal Candelaria D. Chavez of Pontevedra Elementary School said during the turn-over ceremonies of four brand new classrooms in her school recently. Pontevedra is one of the two schools in Capiz, a typhoonravaged province in the Western Visayas region, whose teachers and students will no longer hold classes in cramped and dispiriting makeshift classrooms. The other is Mambusao National High School in Tumalalud, Mambusao, Capiz. Many classrooms in both schools were severely damaged by the excessive rains and merciless winds of Super Typhoon Yolanda. Composed of a student population of 1,077 from preschool to grade 6 with 40 teachers and a principal, Pontevedra Elementary School also offers special

education (SPED) for students with disabilities as well as the gifted. According to Science teacher Joemar Esmeralda, the Grade 6 students who will occupy the newly-built classrooms are all excited, they have been very busy cleaning them up. At the helm of Mambusao National High School’s 1,150 students and 40 teachers is Principal Rolando B. Ricardo who has also established a Special Science High School. He related that Super Typhoon Yolanda destroyed nine classrooms, and one of their self-initiated recovery measures after the calamity was to hold classes in shifting schedules, conducting some of them in tents. To prevent future destruction, the new pre-fabricated classrooms have been sturdily built to withstand strong typhoons and earthquakes. Well-ventilated and spacious, one classroom can accommodate up to 55 students The donations also included chairs, tables, blackboards, electric fans, and comfort rooms.

Pillar Vice Chairman left, PLDT 2G Scholarship from , are ool Sch ry nta me Victor A. Tanco, Sr., PSF s at Pontevedra Ele of the four new classroom Bong Padiz, Capiz Governor er ad -ov He ar turn T Pill the s ing ilitie dur Fac al wn Miguel Mac D. Aposin, PLD Left photo: Sho nuel, 2G Education iz Division Superintendent ip Pillar Head Melanie Ma Cap rsh st, ola prie Sch s. ing 2G eer ciat o, unt offi joc vol the Lim 2G as, Dr. Rafael teachers with n Jose B. Contrer tevedra Elementary School , Pontevedra Mayor Esteba D. Chavez. Right photo: Pon President Esther O. Santos aria del Can al cip Prin ool cano, and Sch Panay CSZ Head Rene Les

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17 The newly-inaugurated four-classroom building at Pontevedra Elementary School. 2G Founder and PLDT Group Controller & Smart/Sun CFO Chaye Cabal-Revilla with school children.

2G Livelihood Pillar Head Ofel OrtizPadiz briefs the teacher-participants in the community-based mushroom production seminar.

“Teachers and students are the inspiration of PSF and 2G. We hope that these classrooms will be conducive environments for our students – our future leaders – to keep learning,” said PSF President Esther O. Santos. The flagship program of the PSF, 2G is the teacher advocacy group led by PLDT Group Controller & Smart/Sun CFO Chaye Cabal-Revilla. It is composed of volunteers from the PLDT Managers Club, Inc. (MCI) who support the country’s teachers through six significant pillars. In-charge of building the classrooms and facilitating the turn-over, among other duties, is 2G Educational Facilities Pillar Head and PLDT Head of Cost Planning and Settlement Bong Padiz. Meanwhile, PLDT Panay Customer Service Operations Zone Head Rene Lescano sought out the schools in Capiz that were in dire need of new classrooms.

community-based mushroom production, conducted in two sessions by the Department of Agriculture (Region 6), which was attended by over 100 teachers and their family members. The seminar was organized by 2G Livelihood Pillar Head Ofel OrtizPadiz and Vice Chairman Jojo Alonzo, in partnership with the PLDT Employees Credit Cooperative, Inc. (PECCI), led by Chairman Gerry Rodriguez. PECCI is also a 2G partner in the Mambusao National High School classroom donation. Expressing appreciation for 2G, PSF, and PECCI’s steadfast support, Capiz School Division Superintendent Miguel Mac D. Aposin said, “Your thoughtfulness is something that we will always remember. From the little things to the big things that you’ve been giving us...Thank you for changing our lives.” CC:

Forming part of the event was a livelihood seminar on

four classrooms on at the inauguration of Cutting the ceremonial ribb ool Principal Sch , left m fro h School are, in Mambusao National Hig and PSF Chairman Gerry Rodriguez, Rolando B. Ricardo, PECCI dent Miguel ten erin . Also in photo are Sup President Esther O. Santos o. can Les Padiz and Rene Mac D. Aposin, 2G’s Bong

randum of Agreement in At the signing of the Memo s, h School are 2G volunteer Mambusao National Hig ls, cia offi ool sch and DepEd PECCI officers, Capiz LGU, . tos San O. with PSF President Esther

AUGUST 2015

PLDT COMREL Diver-VOLUNTEERs at

Shore It

Supporting MPIC for a worthy cause By Alice P. Tuazon, PLDT Community Relations

PLDT-diver volunteers get ready with their diving gears. With them is PLDT ComRel Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario,4th from right.

angroves are the major vegetation in the coastal areas of the province and it also boasts of a variety of marine ecosystems. This year, along with its partners from the MVP Group and other volunteers, Shore It Up ventures in the protection and propagation of mangroves in the country through information campaigns and establishment of information centers. With this in mind, the PLDT Community Relations headed by Evelyn M. Del Rosario together with its PLDT diver-volunteers proceeded to Surigao Del Norte to lend support to Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) for the staging of its 7th Shore It Up “Rescue. Restore. Revive.” annual event. The PLDT diver-volunteers participated in underwater and coastal clean ups as well as supported the junior environmental scouts program.

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Shown here are the “Shore it Up” partners and guests, from left: Department of Energy Sr. Science Research Specialist Engr. Jimmy Planas, Del Carmen, Siargao Islands Mayor Alfredo Coro II, Del Rosario and Surigao Del Norte Governor Sol F. Matugas. MPIC was very grateful to all the sponsors most especially to PLDT for its continuous support. PLDT was also acknowledged for having one of the best in attendance and performance. “We do care for our environment and for so many years now we have been supporting Shore It Up and we at PLDT always see to it that we send the best divers,” said Del Rosario.CC:

pldt, pd r f le a d a c ti v it ie s

fter following the three-step procedure of Duck, Cover, Hold, PLDT employees evacuated the Ramon Cojuangco and MGO buildings in an orderly manner as assisted and guided by Emergency Response Team Members , with their hands over their heads to protect themselves from falling debris. They then proceeded to designated temporary holding area which is along Dela Rosa street, where they were clustered and grouped according to their respective floors for a smoother and faster inventory of evacuees from both buildings. Ramon Cojuangco and MGO buildings safely evacuated 1,190 out of 1,740 (RCB) and 933 out of the 1,214 (MGO)employees, timed evacuation was 13 minutes for RCB and 20 minutes for MGO. Employee participation from the two buildings was registered at 72.6%.

The Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation (PDRF) joins its partners, Rescue 911 and Canadian Emergency Risk Management, in implementing key scenarios and establishing communications with international agencies during the MMDA Earthquake Drill. CC:

AUGUST 2015

”Together

” ise R e W Participants in the PLDTSmart Finance team alignment and planning session wrap it up with a group shot.

nality o m m o c and n io t pera up coo g eams in t g e in c r n B a in art F m S T D L , P g Santiago amon Grace M. Lilandra anila jara and inees, UP M a eatriz T. La B Tr tn e d stu By Hannah

eadership and unity are important in a team. With the numerous changes happening at PLDT and Smart, it is very timely that a team alignment and planning session take place to ensure the oneness specifically of the leaders and members of the divisions and the entire company in general. Following the assignment of Chaye Cabal-Revilla as PLDT Group Controller and Smart/Sun Chief Financial Officer, a strategic team alignment and planning session took place that combined the leaders and members of PLDT and Smart Finance.

Butch Jimenez

Chaye-Cabal Revilla

Deng Kibanoff

Expert facilitator Vic Eduave

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With the theme “Together We Rise” and with 80 participants, the session allowed the leaders to not only interact and know each other better, but they also had to work together in activities that will bring up cooperation and commonality in them. The team alignment was aimed at transforming these leaders into having a common appreciation and understanding of the changes imperative in both PLDT and Smart, specifically in finance groups. It is expected to impact at least five areas in the group’s ability to lead both companies’ transformation. These

Random shots taken during the various activities conducted with varied emotions evident in the faces of the participants. Middle left photo shows the creative and valuable insights and inputs from the participants.

are: shift in mindset and self-concept, shift in ways of doing, shift in ways of leading, shift in ways of engaging, and shift in ways of learning. To be able to realize accomplishments in these areas, the session was facilitated by expert Vic Eduave of TIME with the support of the HR teams of PLDT and Smart. They also invited some speakers to share their insights and own experiences with the participants and inspire them to be better leaders and team players. Among those invited were Cabal-Revilla, who expressed the importance of coming together for a better future of the telecommunications business, especially in these

challenging times; PLDT Group Chief Financial Officer Anabelle Chua, who spoke about the direction and future plans for finance; PLDT HR Group Head Butch Jimenez, who talked about the importance of leadership and teamwork in the transformation of PLDT-Smart Finance; and Smart HR Head, Annette Santiago, who talked about the importance of business partnering in improving how finance works with its customers. Aside from the continuous improvement of the quality of their products and services, PLDT and Smart never fail to overlook the relationship and performance of the team behind their success. CC:

AUGUST 2015

A rousing stance that says, “Together, we’ll prevail!”

e v i r D e th p U g n i l e Fu s n o ti a r e p O t r o p s Tran

& s s e c c A d e x Fi r o f

e cannot just flick a switch and get everyone engaged in priorities. Passion is not a simply a buzzword that can automatically prevail in a work environment. People need to be constantly affirmed for what they’re doing right and redirected for the slips and lapses they commit when sidetracked. In Fixed Access & Transport Operations Center, a history of teambuilding interventions producing glowing results A jovial end that celebrates team solidarity experienced throughout the proceedings. has happened for the past three years. The momentum has been constantly guarded by the leaders themselves who West GMM Fixed Coordinator Edgardo Alsol observed that stop at nothing to ensure that even when clear directions succeeding months after the conduct of these motivational due to constant changes can’t be sufficiently articulated, OD interventions bring about positive results. He enthuses,” commitment to deliver will not waver. A cooperative mood became evident in the sharing of knowledge amongst peers thereby improving work efficiency In its recent team encounter workshop facilitated by and increased customer satisfaction. South GMM Fixed EmpDev AVP Nonong Noriega and Chief Learning Access Coordinated Warren Dimaculangan adds, “The Officer Lydia dela Merced, participants found themselves process of going over the teambuilding dynamics never challenged by experiential activities that brought to fore grows old. The ‘kanya-kanya’ syndrome is slowly dying out. their planning and execution skills. Held in Baguio City, the Counter-productive attitudes such as procrastination has cool and drizzling weather heightened the huddle for team become a thing of the past. The new fad is ‘productivity or focus and synergy. bust.’ Complacency is now replaced with an ever growing hunger for improvement.” Center Head Robert Ferrer shared, “As a leader, I should first learn how to bridge the gap and break the barriers. By The learning adventure ended with a long challenging climb, doing this, I will be able to communicate with them in better hurdling through more than 200 steps to ascend the Lourdes ways and feel what they feel. Work is also about family – grotto amidst the heavy fog and rains. It was Pusong building, caring and sustaining.” PLDT’s ‘dare to stair’ program executed outside company premises. Soaking wet at the top, there was singing of “I Senior Telecom Supervisor Edwin Feraren concurred,” Even Made it through the Rain.” All these concluded with mark if you have the best plan laid out, if you don’t work as a parallelisms and rich simulations on team drive, persistence team, you won’t be able to achieve your goal in the best way and the compelling will to win! CC: you’ve envisioned it to be.”

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PLDT iCare Program

Fostering employee concern or spirit of “malasakit” on cable theft incidents By Hannah Beatriz Lajara, Student-Trainee, UP Manila

A cable theft suspect is caught redhanded by PLDT Security along with the cable wires he just stole, right photo.

o address the recent cable theft incidents across Metro Manila, the PLDT BTO and PLDT Asset Protection and Risk Management Center has decided to remind the employees and revive their interest of their i-Care program. The PLDT iCare program, headed by PLDT/Smart/Sun Command Centre and Special Operations Head Rose Gutierrez, was established on June 2008 to address the idea of turning the employees into “force multipliers” that would help report outside plants facilities damages. After all, the employees are the ones expected to be most concerned with the issues of the Company’s public facilities more than regular citizens. These issues involve not only the establishments, but also outside plant incidents like sagging wires and cables, leaning poles, and open manholes that could lead to unfortunate accidents.

The program was able to register almost 3,000 employees since 2008 and having cases reported regularly all throughout the year.

a set of special awards for outstanding employees and correspondents. The Asset Protection Division is giving away the “Gintong Malasakit Award”, an award presented to PLDT employees who has the most case reported, the “Gintong Maayos Kausap Award” which is given to the most efficient and easy-to-talk-to employee per zone and the “Super Bilis Response Award” which is awarded to the zones which are the fastest and has reported the most number of cases. Last year the CAMANAVA, Laguna and Quezon were awarded as the fastest zones to respond. Aside from the iCare project itself, Asset protection Division also had projects outside the Company that deals with the barangays from different places. One of their most successful projects is the “Ugnayan sa Barangay” project which was deemed most effective in the North Metro ManilaQuezon City area were frequent number of cable thefts were reported.

The iCare program does not only keep all the employees involved but it also improves customer service and satisfaction, after However, the number of reported PLDT outside plant cables, like the one shown here, all when cables are cut, services cases started to decrease last year as the employees were not always are usually the target of cable thieves – a major issue are cut as well. It also helps with PLDT’s revenue by saving on updated and reminded of the program. being reported in the PLDT iCare program. restoration costs, revenue lost The average case reports were 10and replacements by preventing damages and 20 cases per month from 2011-2013 and has accidents. declined to two cases per month last year. With these results, i-Care encourages more and new employees to participate and register themselves in the said program this year. What the employees are not much aware of is that at the end of every year, iCare releases

This program is created with the utmost convenience catered to PLDT employees. To start, all they have to do is register and text REG/ Name/ ID Number and send it to i-Care (4-2273). CC:

AUGUST 2015

by nonong noriega

THANK GOD I’TS

halil Gibran wrote, “Love is work made visible.” The mythic writer has profoundly expounded on the virtues of embracing one’s calling in his classic book, The Prophet. Let’s give it the layman’s touch. One where rubber meets the road. Because everything gets much too ideal at one point - pink cloud stuff, violins and shooting stars. Many perceive work as a sacrifice, the kind that spells out one’s willingness to go the extra mile, or the extra push towards the goal and yes – stay faithful. When we serve passionately and stretch ourselves to rise to the challenge of a herculean task, love for service becomes visible. When we serve not merely to earn a month’s wage or fetch rewards, love for work elevates to the realm of scared vocation. Let us be reminded that work is also a privilege. Every working day presents prized chances to connect to the vine of productivity and contribute to uplift standards of excellence that boils down to quality of life. Thus, the jest - `you’re married to you work’ is ascribed to folks whose footprints are certain to leave behind indelible marks of diligence and integrity. Yes, it’s true that mundane episodes in the wilderness hit us when we’re dog tired. I suppose it happens to the

best of us. Even the most substantial arguments and discourses can sap energy, especially when we’re pressed with punishing timelines. Then there’s toxic talk – whining, lamenting, blaming and hecklers who always pose the doomsday scenario when momentum dwindles. Faithfulness on the job is still evident and proven true by our staying power. We stick it out, resolve our conflicts and soon enough bring back the spring on our step. Call it that bounce on our feet or that song in your heart. (Violins again…) Don’t we feel the urgency of projects that require expedited roll outs and accelerated execution game plans? Will the remainder of the year see our performance improve in mighty leaps and bounds? Well, that will depend on many things in the market milieu – some of which may be beyond our control. But it will not hurt to aspire and think big as we take the cue from those we look up to as our business shapers. So – let’s cheer for those who love their work! Enough to make us agree with Kahlil Gibran when he waxes philosophical on the merits of work that resonates with a divine destiny. And enough to make us realize that ‘work that has become love made visible’ is actually bringing out the best in us. CC:

An attitude of gratitude fuels motivation for work excellence. This principle became evident during the Vision Formulation Workshop EmpDev facilitated for Corporate Bid & Offer Management & Performance Monitoring Center headed by Dinia Chavez and her leads Anel Guste, Jimmy Espiritu and Jeanette Galang.

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WAVES E s a H g n T a t a G B n N i I BRAV install mooring buoys

b u l c s r e v i d PLDT By Erlinda

S. Ramos

PLDT empolyeedivers install buoys to help minimize damage to reefs.

nag ort Ma pp u S e ic er Serv ustom

ement

oinciding with the inaugural women’s dive day organized by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), the PLDT Divers Club and guest divers recently braved Habagat-triggered huge waves and strong under current to install mooring buoys in Mabini,Batangas. The group has had similar initiatives in the different protected marine areas in another part of the same province: Balayan Bay. The installation of buoys helps minimize if not eliminate the damage to reefs. Instead of throwing anchor just anywhere – often unfortunately right smack into coral reefs – fisher folks or boat operators could instead tie their boats to the mooring buoys’ loops or chains. The group’s first attempt at installing a buoy at the Cathedral dive site in Mabini, Batangas had to be aborted to ensure safety of the divers, according to dive instructor Joy Castillo. The second attempt was successful: two mooring buoys were set up in Caban Cove dive site in the municipality of Tingloy. Three more will soon be installed in three identified dive sites in Mabini. PLDT Divers Club, spearheaded by its president Francis Bautista, chose the project site considering that Balayan Bay and Verde Island, which are the passage between Batangas and Puerto Galera, have the most concentration of marine life. Marine scientists have, in fact, declared this area “the center of the center of marine biodiversity” in the whole world. PLDT Senior Vice President for Human Resources Butch Jimenez, a dive enthusiast himself, personally donated five buoys for this endeavor. Nini Casapao, Municipal Tourism Officer of Mabini, Batangas, presented the PLDT Divers Club with a Certificate of Appreciation signed by their town Mayor Nilo M. Villanueva, citing the group for their advocacy of protecting and preserving the marine sanctuaries of their province.

Women divers are all smiles after a hard day’s dive.

The mooring buoy installation is one of the more than 296 events across six continents and 60 countries that have been scheduled on PADI Women’s Dive Day, one of its “women in diving” initiatives, geared to encourage female divers of all levels to dive together on the same day. CC:

AUGUST 2015

Members of the winning PLDT FC proudly show their medals and trophy after winning the championship plum at the 6th Philippine Stock Exchange Futsal tournament.

BESTING NINE OTHER TEAMS

PLDT FC bags championship crown at PSE Football tourney By Marie Celine Michelle F. Ampil, PLDT HR Group

Tournament participants from various companies led by PLDT FC huddle together in their team colors.

PLDT FC regularly participates in various football tournaments to hone their game in preparation for the upcoming MVP Olympics.

ith the MVP Olympics still a few months away, members of the PLDT Football Club (PLDT FC) displayed impressive off-season performances when they bagged the championship in the recently-concluded 6th Philippine Stock Exchange Futsal tournament sponsored by PLDT ALPHA Enterprise. The PLDT FC bested nine teams of other publicly-listed companies competing in the annual tournament including MVPO football contender Meralco and Globe. Indomitable The team won three matches in the qualifying round landing them a spot in the semis after running their tournament debut against Globe’s football team. The team’s experience and impressive footwork proved to be indomitable on court as they battled out ball possessions and displayed power plays with a 4-1 beating against the rival telco’s team. On the other hand, the semi-finals game narrated a different story with a rough-and-tumble match with MVPO rival

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Meralco. As displayed in their experienced plays in the MVPO, the Meralco team is a tougher nut to crack against other teams but their chance of a win, however, grew dim as Norman Azarcon received a through ball and blasted it through their goal keeper securing them a spot in the finals. Sweet victory During the championship match, PLDT FC went against First Metro Investments Corporation. The first half proved to be a tight game that ended in a 1-1 situation. Half-way through the second half, the dynamic duo of Jose Mari Javier and Azarcon were unstoppable scoring three consecutive goals. The match ended with a sweet 4-1 victory. Special awards were likewise given by PSE to individuals who showed stellar performances all throughout the tournament. The PLDT FC fortunately bagged all the individual awards. Javier of PLDT ALPHA won the Golden Boot award while PLDT FasMan’s Julio Mazo was named the best defender of the tournament. Finally, adjudged the most valuable player of the tournament was Azarcon also of PLDT ALPHA. CC:

life+arts

redux

{#redstories part 2}

The Butterfly Effect Photography by Jay Garcia, Media

AUGUST 2015

Yang Pula!

By Melvin Artugue, FMA – ESAM Team C Di mapapawi o maikukubli Maging sa dilim ng gabi Mga pariralang buhat sa paborito kong kulay Sa magitan ng taludtod inuugnay Kailanma’y sa aking mga mata’y di nagkunwari Mga kataga’y di nakuha sa isang pusali Sa bahaghari’y una kong nasilayan Unang kulay sa pitong naglalaban Mainit daw sa mata ng torong may sungay Tumatagos sa alapaap at bukang liwayway Pilitin mang malirip ng inyong balintataw Ang kahuluga’y wala rin sa salimpapaw Bakit hindi mahanap sa tuwi-tuwina Ang dahilan kung bakit bukod tangi sa iba Sa dulo ng liwanag ay makikita rin natin Nadaramtan ng pag-ibig at masidhing damdamin Tingkad at ganda, kanyang ipinamamalas Sa mga bulaklak, kanya ring ibinubulalas Nakapang-aakit, kariktan ng kanyang mukha Namasdan at pumisan sa talulot ng ligaya Papiliin man ako doon sa iba Kulay ng pagmamahal ang aking ipakikita Oh ano? Kaya mo pa ba? May tumutulo sa ilong mo, kulay pula!

Fear Nothing By Kyla

It is not the end but a beginning. Not a closure but an unraveling. Your mission is fulfilled; you’ve done it. Yet how come you feel unlit? You just don’t see why. You can’t see the light At the end of the tunnel, there is life. Where the answers of your cries abide. This labyrinth you want to escape You are feeling this ache But believe me- you are not alone For He welcomes you in His home. It is death that I talk about That fear we scream aloud Yet we don’t see Him at the end of the tunnel With your own self, you start to quarrel We shall not fear anything for He is with us We should do anything for Him if we must For He did what we needed but did not ask for To be forgiven, loved, cared for, and guided by God in our every endeavor.

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tacenda

By Sarah Cielo Q. Meneses, HOME BO Management

ed was the color of the leaves the day she was old enough to check on her grandmother who lived in the forest. Her mother had given her a basket full of food, a pouch containing her grandmother’s medicine, and a thick cloak to protect her from the increasingly cold winds coming from the north. The cloak was the color of wild strawberries. Its hue was more intense than the current queen’s roses, but paler than the apples used by an ancient queen to poison her stepdaughter. It was a lucky color, her mother said. Red was the color of luck and love and life. It was an unlucky color, the villagers insisted. Red was the color of the devil. She passed by the poison apple tree around midmorning. It still grew near the crossroad by the mountain path, and its apples were at the peak of ripeness even after a hundred years. She was getting hungry by then, and had to consciously turn away from looking at the fruits. She passed by a flower meadow at noon. The poppies whispered as she walked by, but she didn’t hear their voices. She thought it was just the wind blowing through the leaves. However, had her grandfather taught her father the language of the flowers, and had

her father taught her, she would have known that the poppies were criticizing her garments and warning her about what awaited her. The gigantic wolf was there when she arrived at the small cottage. She sighed when she saw her grandmother’s glasses crushed beside the great chain that was attached to the wolf ’s shackled left hind-paw. Her father had paid a visiting doctor good money for the glasses. Who knew how long it would be before another doctor could pass by their village to offer his or her services? She stood a safe distance away and tossed the contents of the pouch at the wolf. Then, she waited patiently and nibbled on some cheese as the animal roared and raged as the silver dust worked its magic. The wolf ’s form gradually shriveled to an old woman wearing tattered bedclothes. “It’s Scarlette, Grandmother,” she said softly. Her mother cautioned that her grandmother had sensitive ears after her transition from animal to human. “Mother sent me to bring you some food.” The reply she got were rattling coughs, and it took a while longer before the old woman could stand up and smile at her in acknowledgement. The girl noticed how her grandmother hid the handkerchief she used to muffle the coughs from view, but she knew it was now of the same shade as the sun setting outside. CC:

A Precious Gift

By Cherry W. Alaban, FMA Enterprise Service Assurance Management You were then a beautiful dream. That I always pray to our GOD in heaven. No words can express how happy I am. That you are now in my arms tightly sleeping. Your smile makes me feel complete. That suddenly, you filled my life’s emptiness. And then my fears surprisingly disappeared. You wiped away all my pains and hatreds. Leaving you every day is my saddest moment. But I have to go to work for our future’s sake. God knows how much I want to be with you every single minute. Keeping my eyes on you and assure you’re safe.

Since you came, my life started to change. You are a dream come true. You painted my life, turning the darknessinto brightness. And so I can feel beinga woman with value and essence. I am so blessed that He chose me to be your Mom. I promise to take care and cherish you till the end of my life. For me, you are one of the beautiful reasons to live and fight. Because my child, you are APRECIOUS GIFTfrom our GOD above. AUGUST 2015

“lust” By Leopoldo Lalim

met you via a friend of a friend. Though short, that meeting left a dry spell on my throat. I had no words, only that dry feeling in the mouth. I caught a whiff of you as (I stuttered, yes) you passed by – held by that friend of a friend. Though she herself was a girl, she held you as if you were a princess that had just arrived to greet the unworthy commoners. It looked to me, however, that it was as if she was a hunter tempting the wolves with a freshly slain lamb and putting its blood on their noses.

Dangers of the Tongue

By Laemar John V. Chavez, Fixed Service Network

That friend of a friend of mine told me that you frequented a “blue” bakery at the corner of Gallardo and de la Rosa – quite near in fact to where we worked. I had to see you again.

It doesn’t attack a truck or buildings But rather attack people in their inner feelings It could torture and put someone in a miserable state And leave others with their hate. For news to be passed from one to the other is fine Unless it brings another into a negative light Negative rumors are never right Especially when you hear them from people who are always at your side One of the most foolish things people can do Is to pass on something negative and harmful Reputations once tarnished Can be difficult to burnish Never allow someone to poison you in any way Remember when we sin with the tongue, we harm ourselves The judgment we give will often be the judgment we receive If we dwell and listen to falsehoods, we get defeated Do not fall into the same pit in your effort to help them get out Search your own heart and arise repentant For the words that you should never have said With a stronger faith and a courageous heart, you can strive for what’s best.

I did not ask, I demanded. Any qualms I had of the diminutive description faced a bulldozer named halleluiah. Maybe I could stir up a sigh that could turn to words this time. We’ll see – I had to see. After a day, I decided I could not just see you. Sadly, I had to wait for the weekend. Anticipation grew each day after that. The days passed like molasses. Each grew in viscosity with the words, hand gestures, even breathing that I practiced for when we would meet. That friend of a friend had left me this note at the tail end of her sentence after she told me where I could find you - to have you was unhealthy. She had seen it happen so many times to other men. “Lesser men,” I scoffed in my mind. I didn’t even have you…yet. I had to wait till the weekend where I could be at my best. There will start my quest for deliverance. Vindications grew out of my impatience. Every source of sustenance I had taken in tasted like sand. The grooves at the edges of my fingers lost themselves to my imagining of holding you. Those grooves were unique only to me, as with all other fingerprints, though through this imagining I was losing myself. Ah my filial thoughts turned to internal inquiry of wanton desire. Where would I first see you? Would I be so bold as to go right to you, or have a browse before I do? Would you be all covered, or rather risqué and bare certain parts of your body for all to see? I had stepped beyond the boundary

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of sight into touch and already even…taste. I had caught a whiff and I had fallen into derision so quickly. I am no longer a wolf, I’ve become a beast. Those wolves were the lesser men. They take action only in packs. I will hunt alone. Besides, I decided I could not just see you did I not? Dear God, why is Saturday so far from Monday? The waiting was like a game of attrition. It was a game that gnawed at the dryness of my stomach. I greeted each day formulaic as I woke up, “Profanity + each day of the week before Saturday.” The break of Saturday came and my quest had lasted only the taxi ride to the corner of Gallardo and de la Rosa. I took my seat and casually asked the waitress if anything matching your description had been here. I was ready to settle for even a silhouette. The cashier overheard and gave an almost immediate reply even before I was done with my sentence. She told me that you’ve been there “but” - I heard no more beyond this point. For a brief few seconds I could hear only static. I had heard a few garbled passages of you “passing by rather quickly” and “a lot of people know you” and “come to see you” and “you gladly depart with the first one that comes to see you.” I had not known of anyone so congenial. I had heard a few passages of how “everything seems better” when you pass by. The cashier seemed entranced with you. I arrived three more times. Twice you had not come. On the third, I beat the sun waiting at the nearby 7-11 to make sure that the third time did have its charm. It’s been almost a month and the bevy of my neurons in my brain up to the nerve endings in my spine were already involuntarily twitching. It’s as if my body was forcefully imagining itself already drinking the next cups of dark brew to hasten our meeting. And there you were. I met you with a sheepish smile. The only smile I got back though was my own reflected by the glass as the sun rose just above the four-storey parking lot. I bit my lip – internally. I had an incessantly spasmic grin across my face as I walked towards you trying to tone down my delight. What happened next was a blur. I held you with both hands, then one, then both again as we brisk walked our way through de la Rosa. I must have had one of my

crazy ideas and lo you were there right in front of me with no objection! The pace we had was just enough to outrun thoughts of how “unhealthy” getting to know you could be. As I heard, many had gone your way. But lo, you are here right in front of me with no objection! How would a better man not give in if he were better in the things generally frowned upon? Things like gluttony which equates to the most primal of desires. We outran and we arrived... at my doorstep. It was just half past 9 in the morning. It was not a time certainly for what I had in mind. It was not a time that would ring alarms. I grinned. The room was hot. I hurried to turn on the ac. I had figured the porcelain parts of your skin would be foreign to the aridity that had engulfed Makati. I sat you by the edge of the bed closest to the wall. I took the side that took the route away from where we were. I crossed my arms as I looked at you. We didn’t talk. There was silence for two long minutes. The silence overtook any sound my fingers made as they made a few drawings on the bed. I looked at them. I looked at you. I moaned a word I had not used since crossing over pubescence, “Exquisite.” My eyes were the bow and your figure was the violin string. The music that we played grew violent – carnal. At your lack of objection, your body though silent screamed, “YOLO.” I had you. I partook and I repeated over and over to your lack of objection. Your taste opened dimensions as I went through layers you bashfully hid beneath those soft coverings you so strategically put on. I had you. “Enough Leo!” I stopped - panting. My own voice in my head tore open my ears and let the carnality ebb through. Conscience, greeted me. To this day, you were the best freaking red velvet cheesecake I ever had. CC: AUGUST 2015

Pain is Temporary

By Rebelyn Q. Rosales, Business Process Assurance

t was 2005 when I finished high school and college was already around the corner but I was still unsure on what course to take. My cousin, who was in prison that time for committing a crime under the influence of alcohol, briefly crossed my mind. I wanted to defend him, but I didn’t know how. This circumstance sparked my interest in taking a course leading to law. I tried to get into my dream school, the University of Philippines Diliman, but unfortunately, I didn’t pass the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT), so I went to the Far Eastern University. But because life is full of trials,I eventually had to say goodbye to being a Tamaraw. These disappointments made me feel like I would be a failure my whole life. It was painful to see my dream starting to slip away. I really wanted to make it come true but the door seemed to be closed. Thank God for my grandfather who was there for me. He said that we should learn to stand and move on every time we experience defeat.

a working student’s life. The MBA experience was totally different from college. Last April 27, my journey as a student has come to an end, and my sacrifices have paid off. I remember saving five pesos in a white envelope and saying to myself that this is for my MBA. I also remember passing by FEU and whispering to myself, “Balang araw magiging part ka rin ng educational attainment ko.” And finally, I did it. Now I realize that some things don’t always go exactly as planned. This is probably because God has a perfect time for everything. All we have to do is believe in ourselves, trust Him, and be patient. Sometimes we don’t understand why things happen the way they do, but trust that He is leading us to a bigger and better opportunity.

Now, my college days are over and another chapter begins – conquering the corporate world. I thought getting a job was easy; I have a degree, after all. But in reality, it’s not. Passing exams and interviews will not guarantee you a position in a company. Discrimination is the worst experience in job hunting. For some, your school matters. Having graduated from a well-known university is a plus factor. Later, I decided to pursue graduate studies. I knew it was going to be difficult but I still wanted to do it. The sleepless nights, the “Nos,”the missed family gatherings, the zero ATM balance are all part of ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

“Pain” Artwork by Danny “Bimbo” Handayan PLDT Tondo Sales & Service Centre

Success never comes easy,we have to deal with a lot of sacrifices; we have to hold on to our dreams and keep on believing that we can achieve them. The road to success is narrow and rough, but we should keep moving forwardbecause there is a beautiful view on top. Always remember, the best things in life are quite difficult to get. But we can get them somehow. CC:

boo k review

Red chips for sameness By Olive O. Barrozo

hey used to play with poker chips as markers in their games. Red chips stood for sameness, blue ones for difference. These games are some of the memories that lived in Rosemary’s mind long after they happened. Hypnotic books like Karen Joy Fowler’s We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves give readers something to think about. The gripping plot, with realistic and relatable characters – though not the kind you meet everyday – compel you with great urgency to know what would happen. So you read until the very last page, oblivious of the world, only noticing the time when the alarm clock goes off.

The book starts with 22-yearold Rosemary Cooke narrating her story. She’s currently attending the University of California, Davis and is in no hurry to graduate. Reserved and unpopular, Fowler’s narrator must be one of the estudyanteng walang kibo – as they taunted the passive, indifferent students in my undergraduate years. But she was a nonstop talker in her early childhood. Rosemary is the youngest of the three children of a psychologist father and a stay-at-home mother. Her siblings consist of older brother Lowell and twin sister Fern. She leads a normal happy life with her high-spirited family. On the subject of favorite child, she relates that she is their mother’s favorite child, Lowell, their father’s. “I loved our father as much as our mother, but I loved Lowell best of all. Fern loved our mother best. Lowell loved Fern more than he loved me. When I lay out these facts, they seem essentially benign. Something here for everyone. More than enough to go around.” Though seemingly straightforward in her narration, Rosie appears to be holding back some things about her life. She talks about her current college experiences at UC Davis interspersed with that of her childhood in Bloomington, Indiana. These flashbacks reveal that when she was five and Lowell was 11, Fern suddenly disappeared from their lives for reasons she cannot remember nor understand. Her once solid

family began to crumble. Her mother became a shadow of herself. She was “vaporous.” Her father took to drinking. And her brother who used to be a part of the family turned into a stranger. He eventually left, never to retrace his steps. On page 77, we learn that Rosie’s sister Fern is actually a chimpanzee. They were raised as twins in an experiment conducted by her father to compare a human child’s milestones with that of a chimp. Her gift of gab which was her greatest edge over Fern - who manifested an earlier lead in most milestones – suddenly ground to a halt. She realizes later on that “all of my verbosity had been valuable only in the context of my sister. When she left the scene, no one cared anymore about my creative grammars, my compound lexemes, my nimble gymnastic conjugations.” “I wanted you to have an extraordinary life,” says her mother to Rosie. That meant adopting a chimp as a twin sister for her. The experience did indeed give her daughter wonderful growing-up-with-Fern-memories. They were unique. They set her apart from kids her age and made her different. But when her twin left, Rosie felt so alone: “It’s hard to overstate how lonely I was. Let me just repeat that I’d once gone, in a matter of days, from a childhood where I was never alone to this prolonged, silent only-ness.” Raising a chimp as a daughter along with their own children and suddenly sending her off had disastrous consequences for the Cooke family. They lost their son to the Animal Liberation Front, a shady organization that seeks to save and protect animals in unlawful ways. They almost lost their daughter too. But Rosie chose to fight her battles her own way. Fowler’s compassion for her characters – both human and nonhuman – is so moving, you’re driven to tears at the reunions, especially that of Rosie and Fern’s: “I didn’t know what she was thinking or feeling. Her body had become unfamiliar to me. And yet, at the very same time, I recognized everything about her. My sister, Fern. In the whole wide world, my only red poker chip. As if I were looking in a mirror.” As one of the most engaging contemporary authors, Fowler topped herself in this novel. Her last book before this was a disappointment, but this one got me hooked completely. CC: AUGUST 2015