ACC:ESS February 2016 by PLDT Media

february 2 0 1 6

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PLDT GROUP

CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES IN THE YEAR OF THE

FEBRUARY2016 18 02

NEWS///////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 02 2015 PLDT FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS DATA, BROADBAND CONTINUE STRONG REVENUE GROWTH 06 PLDT UNVEILS FIRST ENTERPRISE HASHTAG HOTLINE 07 PLDT SUPPORTS IEC EVENT IN CEBU

FEATURES/////////////////////////////////////////////////////

REGULARS/////////////// 01 From the Editor 08 Snapshots 25 The Bandwagoner 26 Life & ArtS

12 PLDT ENTERPRISE READIES FOR 2016 CHALLENGES 13 SME GROUP PUSHES FOR MORE COLLABORATIONS IN 2016 14 MAKING THE BEST LEAP IN THE YEAR OF THE FIRE MONKEY COVER STORY 16 BIG IN BUSINESS IN THE YEAR OF THE FIRE MONKEY PLDT SMART SME NATION, ENTREPRENEURS WELCOME A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR SIDEBAR 17 PLDT SUPPORTS DINAGYANG FESTIVAL, EMBARKS ON A 4-PART OUTREACH PROGRAM 18 PLDT joins Panagbenga 2016 festivities 20 PLDT supports TV5’s first-ever #BilangPilipino Tweet-Up 22 four the love of golf The MVP Media Golf Cup just keeps getting bigger and better each year

ABOUT THE COVER The Year of the Fire Monkey ushers new

challenges and opportunities in the midst of all the merrymaking and gaiety. Optimism looms large at the beginning of each year, providing another chance at starting afresh. To begin a new life once again, hoping to do better and aspire for more successes in life - more positive and brighter things in life. At the end of the day, it all depends on how one takes on these challenges and opportunities.

EDITORIAL

Reset

MAILBAG

“I

s we welcome the Year of the Red Monkey, our management team made some hard decisions that rocked the stock market. Our Chairman and CEO MVP called it a reset, lowering the profit guidance this year by 20% to P28 billion from P35 billion last year. He said this will give PLDT the breathing room to take on the needed digital initiatives. “The entire organization, both structure and people, are being oriented to turn on this digital pivot. We expect it to be a long and difficult process with many critical adjustments to be made along the way.”

REGULARS/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

01 EDITORIAL He noted that data will remain the key growth engine for the PLDT Group. “Our Consumer and Enterprise Groups, therefore, need to focus their efforts on 08 Snapshots providing excellent customer experience in this area. To achieve this, we need 25 The Bandwagoner 26 Life network & ArtS dominance and reliability, ease of use and superior portfolio of content, applications, and solutions.”

Thus, many of our programs are now geared toward providing digital services to our customers and gearing our people towards digital. After PLDT HOME’s Drive for Five at the start of the year, it was the turn of the Enterprise Group to rally its troops with a kick-off event that also recognized its top performers. The Enterprise team has also launched a number of initiatives aimed at providing better customer experience. Among them is the #MyNumber service that makes hotlines easier to remember and accessible nationwide without a long distance charge. Alongside this, the Enterprise Care team launched a program to educate front liners on customer experience. The PLDT Smart SME Nation team, meanwhile, rolled out the Technomobile to bring its services closer to its customers. They also had their own kick-off meet with new head, Mitch Locsin. Looking into the future, our Chief Strategy Officer Winston Damarillo shares his insights on the recent World Economic Forum that focused on the fourth industrial revolution. Finally, the Year of the Red Monkey brings both challenges and opportunities. It’s really up to us to rise up to these challenges and have the courage to do a reset if that’s what needed to move forward.

Jay-Anne R. Encarnado

ERRATUM. In the article “PLDT Outreach wins CSR excellence award” published in the January 2016 issue, it was erroneously stated in the pull quote that “the program has changed the lives of 3,586 student- and teacher-gradudates.” It should be 13,586 student- and teacher-graduates. We regret the error.

ACC:ESS is published monthly by PLDT Media Division for employees and friends. Address all communications to: The Editor-inChief, ACC:ESS, Ramon Cojuangco Building, Makati Avenue, Makati City. Telephones 810-3190 and 8168515. Email: jrencarnado@ pldt.com.ph http://issuu.com/ pldtmedia

Mon R. lsberto Public Affairs Head EDITORIAL Butch G. Jimenez Editor Jay-Anne R. Encarnado Editor-in-Chief Sennen F. Lacsamana Managing Editor Olive O. Barrozo Literary Editor

Adrian T. Elumba Sarah Azucena-Reodica Katrina A. Mallari Raymond C. Co Writers Daniel G. Moratalla Jay F. Garcia Photographers Annie O. Salazar Arnel N. Samson Circulation Nonong F. Noriega Columnist

would like to convey my appreciation to all of you for delivering another mission critical installation despite the very short notice. Thanks, Jay and Benjie, for leading your team to provide an excellent customers experience. Kudos and keep it up!” These are the very words from client Judith Antaran, Country Director for Information Technology of DHL Global Forwarding, Inc., who requested for the provisioning of Fibr service for the managing director Imran Shaikh. Commended were: Corporate Relationship Management VP Jay Lagdameo, Las PiñasAlabang Customer Service Operations Zone Senior Manager Benjie Causon, Jr., Home Customer Contact Management Manager Rose Dalisay, Relationship Management Executive Ace Evangelista, Las Piñas-Alabang Customer Service Operations Zone Field Service Engineers Rene Abella, Simplicio Villanueva, and Resty Rosales. CC:

Lagdameo

Causon

Dalisay

Evangelista

Abella

Villanueva

Rosales

Carlo D. Gonzalez Archibald P. Marajas Graphic Design Contributors Raissa G. Buitizon, Arlyn DungaDel Prado, Edgar Dominic Modina Diaz, Aldwin P. Estrada, Danny Handayan, Ma. Leonora S. Malenab, Alexander G. Mempin, Loida V. Nardo, Fides G. Pasumbal, Jeffrey S. Quilatan, Paula B. Reyes, Winona Zerla B. Santos, Marjory C. Sy, Mark Jason B. Teves, Maricris U. Torres,

news

PLDT reports a sustained growth in its data and broadband services revenues. Present in the panel are, from left: PLDT Regulatory Affairs Head Ray Espinosa, EVP and Head for Consumer Business Ariel Fermin, Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, Chief Financial Officer Anabelle Chua, and EVP and Head of Enterprise, International, and Carrier Business Eric Alberto, while moderated by PLDT Public Affairs Head Ramon Isberto.

2015 PLDT FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

Data remains growth driver PLDT recently announced its audited financial and operating results for 2015 with Consolidated Core Net Income, before exceptional items, amounting to P35.2 billion, 6% or P2.2 billion lower than the P37.4 billion recorded last year. The decrease was due mainly to lower EBITDA reflecting the impact of expenses relating to the manpower reduction program, higher financing costs, offset by lower provisions for income tax. Reported Net Income, after reflecting exceptional transactions for the period, declined 35% to P22.1 billion, from P34.1 billion in 2014, as a result of the dip in core net income, higher foreign exchange and derivative losses and a rise in impairment charges relating to both fixed assets and investments. Excluding revenues from the international and national long distance (ILD/NLD) segments of P19.7 billion, consolidated service revenues grew by 2% year-on-year, from P140.3 billion to P143.2 billion at the end of 2015. EBITDA margin for the period was at 43%. Consolidated EBITDA for 2015 was 9% lower at P70.2 billion compared

with the same period last year due to lower service revenues from the wireless business, higher cash operating expenses, which include the costs arising from the manpower reduction program, and higher provisions. EBITDA and profitability continue to be impacted by the ongoing structural change in revenue mix and heightened competition. Reported Net Income was significantly affected by the depreciation of the peso relative to the U.S. dollar, compounded by the impairment charges on Sun Cellular assets rendered obsolete by the ongoing network upgrade and our investment in Rocket Internet, affected by its lower share price at the end of 2015 and the depreciation of the Euro relative to the peso. Consolidated free cash flow for year stood at P27.8 billion. Consolidated capital expenditures for the period amounted to P43.2 billion, P8.4 billion higher than the capital expenditures in 2014. These investments resulted in: :: Significantly upgraded 2G (9% more sites), 3G (53% more sites) and 4G (16% more sites) coverage through new rollouts, the integration of the Sun network, and optimization

:: Expanded FTTH network by 160,000 lines :: Improved Internet browsing experience through capacity expansion, caching and direct interconnections :: Enhanced customer experience as verified by independent studies :: Innovative converged fixed and mobile products and services such as the shared data plans The Group’s consolidated net debt increased toUS$2.4 billion as at 31st December 2015, with net debt to EBITDA higher at 1.6x. Gross debt amounted to US$3.4 billion. The Group’s debt maturities continue to be well spread out, with over 60% due after 2018. The percentage of U. S. dollar-denominated debt to the Group’s total debt portfolio is at 42%. Taking into account our peso borrowings, our hedges and our US dollar cash holdings, only 17% of total debt remains unhedged, down from 34% in 2014. The Group’s cash and short-term securities are invested primarily in bank placements and Government securities. PLDT continues to be rated “investment grade” by the three major international ratings agencies, namely Fitch

Ratings, Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s. Earlier, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a final regular dividend of P57 per share. Together with the interim regular dividend of P65 per share declared in August 2015, the total dividend of P122 represents 75% of 2015 core earnings. Payment date will be on 1st April 2016. “For 2015, we will pay out 75% of our earnings as regular dividends but will not pay a special dividend. Our elevated capex levels and investment plans deem it necessary that we conserve cash and maintain debt at prudent levels whilst we are transitioning,” said Manuel V Pangilinan, PLDT Chairman and CEO. On the go As the leader in digital services, the Company’s offerings are premised on providing our consumers entertainment at home or on the go, urban comfort/ convenience, and peaceof-mind. Data and broadband revenues continued their strong revenue growth, growing 16% to P48.5 billion in 2015. Data and broadband revenues now account for about 30% of consolidated service revenues with the goal of accelerating these revenues such that they make up more than 40% of consolidated service revenues in the next three years. Mobile Internet usage grew 106% to close to about 100,000 terabytes while related revenues grew 26% to P10.4 billion. Smartphone penetration is now about 40% of our cellular subscriber base and we expect the success of our Smart888 phone to raise this even further. Other efforts to enable and accelerate data adoption to drive usage include the bundling of popular

apps and video platforms with various load and plan denominations. The introduction of shared data plans, whereby fixed data plan subscribers can share up to 6GB of data to registered beneficiaries, is also expected to increase usage. Subscriber base The Group’s combined broadband subscriber base reached about 5.2 million at the end of 2015, over 3.9 million of whom use wireless broadband. Another 1.3 million users subscribe to PLDT’s fixed broadband service, a 14% increase from YE2014. Meanwhile, PLDT continues to strengthen its leadership with more digital services via a “Connected Home.” This value proposition is facilitated via devices such the Telpad, TVolution stick, and the FamCam while usage is driven by various video platforms (iflix, Fox and Cignal over Fibr and Disney Kids Channel) and the aforementioned datasharing plans. Fixed Broadband revenues grew by 15%, or P2.1 billion, to P16.1 billion, following the 14% jump in subscriber base. The fixed line subscriber base rose to 2.3 million at the end of 2015, 55% of whom have fixed broadband subscriptions. Postpaid revenues now account for 24% of total cellular revenues, having improved by 9% to P23.7 billion for 2015. The Group’s combined postpaid cellular subscriber base grew by over 192,000 from the end of 2014, rising to 3.0 million at the end of the period, while the combined prepaid base stood at 62.0 million.

The PLDT Group’s total wireless subscriber base at the end of the period stood at 68.9 million, consisting of over 3.9 million wireless broadband subscribers, and about 65.0 million cellular subscribers broken down as follows: Smart had 24.1 million subscribers under its mainstream Smart brands; value brand TNT ended with 28.1 million subscribers; and there were 12.8 million Sun Cellular subscribers. “The goal for our Consumer group is to be the preferred digital services provider – to achieve this, we need to establish data

and vendor-agnostic with an aggregate rack capacity that is the largest in the country. We are also actively enabling the digital capability of our customers by expanding our mobile and data-driven solutions portfolio, introducing innovative e-commerce platforms and fostering ICT leadership and expertise. PLDT Enterprise’s corporate data/other network services and data centers generated revenues of P11.1 billion, growing 14% from 2014. Corporate data and other network services were higher by 12% at P9.2 billion while data center revenues jumped by 26% to P1.9 billion.

Resource persons during the press conference are, from left: Chief Strategy Officer Winston Damarillo, Voyager Innovations President Orlando Vea, and Chief Technology and Integration Advisor Joachim Horn.

leadership by improving not only data usage but monetization as well. Note that higher data usage by mobile subscribers drove the 26% in mobile Internet revenues. Data traffic grew 4x more than revenues, providing us with much scope for monetization. We will also ramp up our converged offers, leveraging on the combined strengths of our businesses,” said Ariel P Fermin, Head of Consumer Group, Wireless and Home. The PLDT Group is also uniquely positioned to serve the Enterprise sectors with six data centers that offer colocation, server hosting/ outsourcing, disaster recovery, connectivity and data scrubbing. These centers are telcograde, carrier-neutral

“While our Enterprise business remains in front, we need to assert this leadership by moving further up the value chain. We will therefore be offering more business solutions and enhancing our access/connectivity offerings anchored on our robust network,” said Eric R Alberto, Head of Enterprise Group. Key growth engine “Data remains the key growth engine for the PLDT Group. Our Consumer and Enterprise Groups therefore need to focus their efforts on providing an excellent customer experience in this area. To achieve this, we need network dominance and reliability, ease of use and a superior portfolio of content, applications and solutions. The entire organization, both structure and people, are being oriented to turn on this digital pivot. We expect it

to be a long and difficult process with many critical adjustments to be made along the way. We certainly don’t expect results overnight; in fact, we estimate it will take three years before we make a complete turn. PLDT’s profitability will therefore have to be reset to a lower baseline in 2016 - P28.0 billion in Core Earnings, arising from the following factors: :: Single-digit revenue growth due to the transition to data :: Continued decline in EBITDA margin due to structural change in revenue mix where higher-margin legacy businesses such ILD/NLD and SMS are replaced; :: PLDT’s efforts to maintain a fair share of the market will hurt in the short-term; :: Competition will remain intense; our working assumptions anticipate the entry of a third player; and, :: Capex levels will remain elevated resulting in higher depreciation and financing costs with no special dividends. “All that said, I can say that we are off to a good start – with encouraging signs from sequential revenue trends and test results of network quality that are showing sustained improvements. We have a number of promising initiatives in digital platforms and mobile financial services as well as significant strategic partnerships in the making. Yet much needs to be done and much can be achieved with hard work, perseverance, and focus. The digital world is vast, dynamic, and complex but we’ve done it before and we can do it again,” concluded Pangilinan. CC:

PLDT ALPHA Enterprise powers Cavite Wireless Access Program for free Wi-Fi PLDT ALPHA Enterprise has rolled out the local government of Cavite’s extensive wireless access program on governance that provides internet access to its residents for free.

capitol compound in Trece Martires City, and selected public areas, barangay halls, public schools and universities have also been

students, investors, tourists, and visitors with access to e-services and information such as provincial announcements, traffic updates, emergency hotlines, local price watch, job vacancies, and guide for tourism.

Utilizing both fiber optic “With a consistently network growing number and TV of Filipinos actively Shown here are, from left: Microsoft Phils. Inc. National Technology Officer white space using the Internet, Dondi Mapa, Governor Jonvic Remulla, PLDT Relationship Manager Arlyn technology to local government Del Prado, PLDT Corporate Relationship Management Head Dick Perez, expand the units can maximize PLDT Corporate Relationship Business Head Ino Mandapat, and FilAsia System Technologies, Inc. Director Garry Yau. province’s this platform not only access to to provide essential broadband internet connected to the provincial information to their connectivity, Cavite’s network. constituents, but more Wireless Access Program The project aims to importantly deliver public was rolled out in pilot enhance the local services,” said PLDT First areas including the cities government of Cavite in Vice President and Head of Bacoor, Dasmariñas, their efforts to improve the of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Imus, and the delivery of public services. Jovy Hernandez. “We are municipalities of Silang, It also supports the launch proud to be part of this General Trias, Rosario, of their web and mobile vital undertaking, and look and Tanza. Free Wi-Fi applications LINKod forward to supporting the access was also made Kabitenyo, which will province of Cavite in its ICT available in the provincial provide its constituents, initiatives.”

The launch of the Wireless Access Program was held at the National College of Science and Technology (NCST) and led by Governor Jonvic Remulla, Jr who was joined by NTSC President Emerson Atanacio, and Dondi Mapa, National Technology Officer of Microsoft Philippines, which donated the TV White Space technology. PLDT Corporate Relationship Management Head Benedicto Perez shared the telecom’s honor as a partner to the milestone project. “This noble endeavor will arm the citizens of Cavite with the wealth of knowledge found on the internet, knowledge they can use to harness their potentials,” said Perez. CC:

ePLDT Group, ESS huddle for digital enterprise enablement ePLDT COO Nerisse Ramos underscores the initiatives being done as ePLDT and its subsidiaries ABM Global Solutions (AGS) and Curo Teknika with PLDT Enterprise Strategic Solutions gear towards digital transformation.

ePLDT together with its subsidiaries ABM Global Solutions (AGS) and Curo Teknika recently gathered with the PLDT Enterprise Strategic Solutions (ESS) for a digital transformation kick-off at the PLDT PressCon Room. The huddle was organized to allow PLDT ESS, AGS and Curo Teknika and other support groups to

collaborate in order to widen the enterprise market’s opportunity to be abreast with the best Digital and ICT solutions available. These solutions allow us to be of service to our enterprise customers, letting them work more efficiently and maximize productivity. The event was attended by ePLDT COO Nerisse

Ramos, PLDT ESS Head John Gonzales, AGS GM Luigi Lopa, Curo Teknika GM Jojo Uligan and heads of the different enterprise support groups. It was capped off with a fun and engaging activity called “Defining Our Story” where everyone had the chance to introduce themselves and express their commitment to the overall team objective. CC:

AGS General Manager Luigi Lopa encourages participants to embrace and put into practice the digital enterprise enablement efforts.

PLDT Smart SME Nation unveils the Techmobile and Nationwide Negosyo Sale with a bang featuring the rockband Spongecola during the launch.

PLDT Smart SME Nation holds 3-day National Negosyo Sale, rolls out Techmobile for MSMEs PLDT Smart SME Nation has solidified its support for the country’s bustling micro, small-and-medium enterprise (MSME) sector by holding a three-day sale event for its IT and business productivity offerings catered to businesses looking to expand digitally. To help push the campaign further, Techmobile, a mobile e-commerce store on wheels, will go around the country to offer services to more MSMEs across the country. The National Negosyo Sale features several business productivity-enhancing products designed to help MSMEs usher their businesses into the digital landscape. This includes tools such as SmartBro 499, Kaasenso Plan, PLDT myDSL Biz kits, and enterprise-grade tools such as iGate Leased Line Circuits and VOX Managed IP PBX services. These products will include a do-it-yourself website building kit, as well as various collaboration tools c/o Microsoft, which will help MSMEs build up their digital footprints. “Nothing is more important for micro, small, and medium businesses to be present where their customers are. With almost half of the Philippine population going online on a regular basis[1] and a foreseeable increase in devices that help people connect to the internet, more Filipinos are bound

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, 2nd from left, leads the unveiling of the Techmobile. With him during the launch are, from left: PLDT VP and Head of SME Nation Mitch Locsin, DTI Representative Alice Opena, Team Bam Representative Simon V alencia, PLDT EVP and Head of Enterprise, International and Carrier Business Eric Alberto, Go Negosyo Executive Director Mon Lopez, PLDT CFO Anabelle Chua, and PLDT Smart SME Nation Head for Community Engagement Gabby Cui.

to be present in social media and have access to resources online. It is now a must for businesses to be able to keep up with their market and bring their businesses online,” said Mitch Locsin, VP and Head of PLDT Smart SME Nation. These products are designed to help entrepreneurs bring their business ideas online and provide them with the necessary tools to let them manage their businesses remotely. With these products, PLDT Smart SME Nation helps level the playing field and provide enterprise-level asset, service, and inventory

management tools for SMEs to better provide the needs of their customers. Meanwhile, Techmobile, a mobile technology platform in partnership with Takatack, will conduct caravans nationwide and target local SMEs that are planning to expand their business online. A fleet of Techmobiles will roam around the country to reach entrepreneurs in remote areas who wish to expand their businesses using PLDT Smart SME Nation’s business tools and solutions. “The National Negosyo Sale, along with the

PLDT Smart SME Nation Marketing Head Amil Azurin talks about the benefits of the group’s featured business solutions to the country’s thriving MSMEs.

rollout of our Techmobile as it starts its journey nationwide, highlights our efforts to promote the use of digital technologies among local MSMEs to enable them to keep up in a more competitive digital landscape. As we progress into 2016 and towards the ASEAN Economic Integration, PLDT Smart SME Nation is dedicated to ensure the competitiveness of local businesses who will, more than ever, need the support of larger entities such as PLDT who can empower them to make it big in their industries and become truly global businesses,” concluded Locsin. CC:

The Techmobile is a four-wheel, digital showroom that will go around the country helping MSMEs in their digital journey.

PLDT unveils first enterprise hashtag hotline with #MyNumber service

PLDT FVP and Head of ALPHA Enterprise Jovy Hernandez introduces the unique features of the #MyNumber to top enterprise clients during its launch.

Innovating the way enterprises make their hotline available for their customers, PLDT ALPHA Enterprise recently introduced the PLDT #MyNumber (hashtag MyNumber) to businesses which makes hotlines easier to remember and accessible to consumers nationwide. The #MyNumber service simplifies the hotline system of any business

to a single, easy-toremember four to eightdigit contact number beginning with the hash sign or pound key (e.g. #8888). This single number is accessible to consumers nationwide through PLDT landlines, Smart, Talk N’ Text, and Sun mobile subscribers. This solves the problem when businesses promote several hotline numbers for different regions into

one central number for all their consumers in the country. These enterprise organizations can replace their existing roster of contact numbers for different stores and/or area codes with one nationwide contact number. “Having a simple, easy-toremember hotline number is a very effective customer engagement tool for a lot of enterprises, especially for service-oriented industries such as fast food, banking, and logistics. PLDT #MyNumber can drive sales, build your brand, and enhance the overall customer experience with a unique, singular hashtag number accessible nationwide,” said PLDT First Vice President and

Head of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise Jovy Hernandez. This solution enables an enterprise organization to receive more calls from customers. Whether the customer is calling from Metro Manila or other parts of the country, all PLDT landline calls from customer to hotline are free of charge while 75 million Smart, Talk ‘N Text, and Sun mobile subscribers can also access PLDT #MyNumber and enjoy a lower per-minute cost for their calls (compared to conventional mobile to landline cost). Call costs are covered by the company operating the hotline. CC:

PLDT powers century-old Manila Hotel on its digital shift PLDT ALPHA and Smart Enterprise has become instrumental as the century-old Manila Hotel undergoes a digital shift in line with its renovation and rebrand for the future. Adding value to the hotel’s ICT capabilities is the Smart Messaging Suite, which sends SMS blasts to subscriber phones. Mrs. Liwanag-Rigor says they are widening their partnership with PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise by adopting the Smart Ads geo-fencing system that alerts subscribers within a preset radius from the hotel. They also use the SafeZone solution, which gives Smart and Sun users free access to The Manila Hotel website and mobile application. These solutions help extend the hotel’s reach to a sizable untapped market in Metro Manila’s

financial and political centers. These have immediately proved more cost-efficient and effective, to the extent that full-time personnel are now devoted to maintaining a constant online and offline presence. The hotel also wants to maximize these ICT capabilities by tapping into data mining and insights. Mrs. Liwanag-Rigor calls these tools “powerful guides” to help them reach their market. The Manila Hotel’s personal and premium brand of service is similar to the telco provider’s own high quality of service and relationships. Needless to say, it has earned Mrs. Liwanag-Rigor’s continued professional and personal confidence. “We appreciate how the team is so accommodating, and that is why I have been pushing to take our relationship with PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart

The historic and still majestic Manila Hotel is getting a digital boost from PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise.

Enterprise even further,” she adds. “The management, especially our Vice President Dr. Enrique Y. Yap, Jr. recognizes the challenge of evolving with our guests’ and the market’s ever-changing needs,” Manila Hotel Assistant Vice-President for PR and Corporate Communications Nian Liwanag-Rigor says. The ongoing renovations, which began almost five years ago, are the latest and perhaps most extensive since the hotel opened in 1912. Work on the “Grand Dame” of Philippine

hotels—including its vast Presidential Suite and all rooms—is set to preserve the hotel’s luxurious image and premium service position. According to LiwanagRigor, the hotel needs to balance digital and traditional communications as it engages with a younger and savvy market. “Digital definitely cannot be neglected. Sooner or later, ‘yuppies’ will have larger total purchasing power,” she says, noting trends among young professionals and millennials who like ‘staycations’ and occasional high-end treats. CC:

PLDT supports International Eucharistic Congress event in Cebu PLDT Home supports the 51st IEC by putting up Home DSL booths in the areas while fans were being distributed to the pilgrims as well.

Continuing its efforts for a holistic enrichment and to spread the message of an all-encompassing faith, PLDT was recently one of the major sponsors during the International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) event in Cebu. PLDT provided tents, lamp post banners, bus stop pole signs, bus tarps, fence wall tarps, fans and bag tags for bishops. PLDT collared shirts with IEC logo were provided to the PLDT technical team and other guests. PLDT also responded to the call of His Eminence Cardinal Vidal in paving the way for 5,000 school children from all over the country to receive their First Holy Communion, together with their respective families by donating a charitable amount of P500,000. Likewise, the PLDT Group provided data and voice services as well as free data connectivity and enhanced network coverage to the IEC reflecting the Group’s efforts to establish a wide-scale communication that will engage people even from far-flung areas. PLDT HOME DSL booths were also present in the main event venues and some of the fans

were distributed in these areas. “It is truly a blessing to see this huge gathering for the Eucharistic celebration come to life,” PLDT Community Relations Head and Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario said. “There is no better way to spread the loving message of Christ than by selflessly giving to a community that always strives to find His Light.”

celebration of the Eucharist in all its dimensions. Headed by Archbishop Piero Marini and based in Rome, the Pontifical Committee on IEC initiates and coordinates the IEC at the global level. This year, it designates the Local Committee in Cebu, presided by Archbishop Jose S. Palma,

PLDT ComRel Head and Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario joins President of the 51st International Eucharistic Congress Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, center, and Archbishop-emeritus of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Tuguegarao Diosdado Talamayan.

Aiming to promote an awareness of the central place of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the Catholic Church, the IEC is an international gathering of people, rooted in the ultimate belief of enhancing and deepening the understanding, appreciation, and

to organize and prepare for the congress in the Philippines. The significance of IEC in Cebu is connected with the nine-year Novena for the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines. As narrated in history, Christianity

came to the country’s shore through Cebu in 1521. Moreover, it is also noteworthy how His Eminence, Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Ricardo J. Cardinal Vidal was one of those who received first communion at the age of six during the 33rd IEC in 1937 which was held in Manila, Philippines – a first in Asia. Papal Legate Cardinal Charles Maung Bo presided the opening Mass of the 51st IEC, reminding Filipinos of their resilience amidst the struggle, with hope constantly leading the people towards Light. “God gave you a nation of unparalleled beauty, but sadly challenged with the frequent natural disasters,” Bo said. “May this 51st IEC be the moment of healing the earth, the wounded planet, and healing the graceful people of this country and everyone gathered here. You have wisely chosen a theme of timeless relevance: Christ in you is the Hope of Glory – the Eucharist- the source and Goal of Mission.” The 51st IEC had at least 13,000 delegates from 73 countries. Katrina Mallari

snapshots

PLDT ALPHA’s Hot Joe magazine bags silver trophy at Anvil awards

EmpDev AVP facilitates at Rotary leadership workshop A talk meant for an audience of promising millennials. A leadership workshop sponsored by Rotary Club of Freeport Zone, Subic through its Rotaract Club partner customized with methodologies that would address the interactive learning preference of young professionals. Rich in simulations on crisis management, people handling, teamwork and values empowerment. Dubbed as “Innovating Leaders Beyond Their Potentials,” 90 participants from North and South Luzon found themselves engaged in role plays, snap thinking and the dynamics of networking with peers during this memorable learning event facilitated by EmpDev Assistant Vice President Nonong Noriega. Photo shows Nonong about to be awarded the plaque of recognition by Club President Edmon Balingit.

PLDT ALPHA Enterprise’s glossy magazine Hot Joe continues to reap recognition as it recently bagged a silver trophy at the 51st Anvil Awards organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP.) Hot Joe has been a consistent recipient of awards from various award-giving bodies that recognize corporate communications efforts. The client-oriented magazine features the Enterprise Group’s latest partnerships, products, industry insights, and celebrated events in a 100-page publication distributed to PLDT ALPHA Enterprise’s clients, executives, and partners. Shown here receiving the trophy from PRSP officers and organizers during the awards night are PLDT ALPHA Enterprise Advertising Specialist Jill Gonzales and CorpComm and Corporate Customer Engagement Head Mikey Smyth, 3rd and 4th from left.

PSF, MVP Group donate computer lab in Caloocan parish PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), together with its partners from the Tollways Management Corporation (TMC) and One Meralco Foundation (OMF), recently turned over a computer laboratory to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish at Camarin, Caloocan. The laboratory will be used by the parish to aid students, who have difficulty connecting to the internet due to the lack of computers or laptops in their schools, in their studies. Photo shows, from left: Tollways Management Corporation’s Maricar Pangilinan, Tollways Management Corporation President Roberto Bontia, One Meralco Foundation President Jeffrey Tarayao, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Priest Fr. Luciano Felloni, PSF President Ma. Esther Santos, and TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation Executive Director Menchie Silvestre, during the turnover ceremony.

feature

Enterprise Care launches

“Wow, ang galing!” By Fides G. Pasumbal, Enterprise Inbound Contact Services

PLDT Customer Service Support Management Head Ana Lizette Embuscado introduces the campaign to the Enterprise customer contact center team.

The contact center team makes a pledge of commitment. Photos by Mark Anthony Marte, EICS and Arvin “Jed” Balares, EOCS

ebruary 11, 2016 was a momentous event for Enterprise Care with the launching of “Wow Ang Galing!” Focusing on educating the front liners about Customer Experience, the campaign zooms in at service assurance experience. Emphasizing the call Customer Care heads pose at the wall filled with customer experience slogans. They are, from left: Gregg Templo, Joma Cruz, Richard Bauzon, Leny Rodrigo, Carla Tabuena, Dada Ang, Lizette Embuscado, and Ed Fraginal.

Enterprise employees write on the Commitment Wall.

to make enterprise customers feel that they are cared for, the aim is to resolve their concerns at first contact either through call, email, text, or chat. The front liners were challenged to turn each customer interaction into a meaningful engagement, taking advantage of every opportunity to create that WOW moment. The mood was very festive and to heighten the passion and excitement in the heart of each member of the Enterprise customer contact center, the lobby and workspaces were filled with

colorful decorations to express the employees’ take on how to deliver the best customer experience. It was an election campaign feel, with members wearing campaign shirts, visors, button pins and vests. Various posters were also created by the agents featuring Customer Experience slogans. Present in the affair were Head of Enterprise Care Carla Tabuena, Head of Customer Service Support Management Ana Lizette Embuscado, Division Head of Enterprise Inbound Contact Services Eleanor Rodrigo, Division Head of Enterprise Outbound Contact Services Imelda Ang, Division Head of Support Management Auxillary Services Eduardo Fraginal, Head of Customer Svc Admin & Technical Support Richard Bauzon, Curo Teknika Head of Operations John Cervantes, MPIC-MVP Operations’ Oliver Rivera, and SPI Global VP for Operations Alfredo Antonio. Also present were EC Quality Assurance Head Gregorio Templo, Fault Management Associate June Francisco and Enterprise Service Assurance Management Head Jose Maria Cruz III.

An invocation and a brief campaign AVP opened the program. Embuscado led the official launch, emphasizing the big role front liners play in creating positive experience for our customers. Tabuena gave an inspiring speech, motivating each one to lead in creating happy customers. Everyone was challenged to aspire in making every engagement a smooth and joyful experience that will leave customers saying “Wow, ang galing!” Highlight of the program was the commitment response from the employees with a pledge led by their respective heads. In closing, everyone flocked to the Commitment Wall to write their individual pledges and commitments while “Wow Ang Galing” jingle, composed by employees from Proserve and SPI, played in the background. Everyone was in good spirits that day, and as Tabuena said, “Today is a wonderful day, and we should make every day a wonderful day for our customers.” CC:

PLDT Chief Strategy Officer shares insights on Davos 2016 By Sarah G. Azucena-Reodica

medical technology eliminates revenue-generating processes, as monitoring body functions and conditions will be easier to access.

PLDT Chief Strategy Officer and World Economic Forum Young Global Leader 2010 Winston Damarillo flew to Davos on behalf of the Company, and came home bearing relevant insights which were shared in an intimate media briefing.

The banking industry will have to find a way to stay relevant, as cash transactions will soon be processed digitally, and consumers no longer have to visit (and queue long hours inside) brick-and-mortar banks. For the retail industry, the customer will truly be king when three dimensional printers begin printing “products” that fit the exact preference of shoppers.

elf-driving cars, bioprinting, advanced robotics. These popular science fiction subjects have become some of the fearless forecasts proclaimed during the World Economic Forum 2016 in Davos, or simply, Davos. And these concepts are not so farfetched—they are projected to be realized in ten years.

“This year, Davos got geeky. Its theme of ‘Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution’ is an acknowledgement by the World Economic Forum that technology is about to change our lives profoundly,” Damarillo said. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, according to Davos founder Klaus Schwab, is a digital revolution that is characterized by a fusion of technologies that blurs the lines between the physical, digital and biological spheres. And there are industries that are most likely to be disrupted with the rapid onslaught of modern technology. The healthcare industry, for one, will have to adapt to how new

self-driving cars, bioprinting, advanced robotics. These popular science fiction subjects have become some of the fearless forecasts proclaimed during the World Economic Forum 2016 in Davos...And these concepts are not so far-fetched—they are projected to be realized in ten years.

After sharing some insights with the group, Damarillo facilitated a “funshop” where the media briefing participants get to imagine real-life scenarios where the forecasts are realized in the everyday life of a Filipino. At the end of the day, Damarillo stressed on the importance of collaboration, one of the learnings he gleaned from Davos. “The most important thing that I have learned is that the world wants to help each other. By default.”

In this world, we have this lifetime to be the persons we hope to become. But in a virtual reality, we can be the many versions of ourselves we only used to dream about. Through VR Philippines, we now have avenues to always become something more. Indeed, we are taking steps towards a digital future – a leap from the imagined to the real. CC:

100%

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FOR QUALITY HEALTH SERVICES TO US-BASED PATIENTS

PLDT empowers Liberty Medical Philippines

rban lifestyles and fast-paced conditions of modern living have bred prevalent chronic conditions for a growing segment of the population. In response, topnotch healthcare providers must seek innovative ways to treat and serve more patients better and faster; forging partnerships with reliable providers such PLDT

In this partnership, PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise provide numerous connectivity solutions that enable LMPI to effectively transact and communicate with its global network. To ensure smooth delivery and communication between LMPI and their customers as well as their headquarters, PLDT ALPHA Enterprise provides an International

Helping patients get the best healthcare. Present during the signing rites are, from left, PLDT VP and former Head of Corporate Relationship Management Mitch Locsin, PLDT FVP and Head of ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise Jovy Hernandez, LMPI Country Head Edwin Matulin, and Recruitment and People Development Head Arrpie Puno.

ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise. Hence, this partnership has enabled Liberty Medical Philippines, Inc. (LMPI) to operate their business and to better address their patients’ needs; entrusting its critical connectivity and digital requirements to PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise only.

Private Leased Circuit (IPLC) through PLDT Global Corporation. Additional connectivity comes with Snap Avaya Telephony, bundled with E1 Integrated Services Digital Network Primary Rate Interface (ISDN PRI) to support communication, video conferencing, and high-speed data transfers. Smart Enterprise’s service for mobile communication meanwhile extends the LMPI team’s reach, further enabling collaboration

among local and overseas colleagues. PLDT FVP and Head of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise Jovy Hernandez has expressed optimism for LMPI’s growth and their growing partnership. “We are very proud to have been the trusted end-to-end partner of Liberty Medical Philippines from the very beginning,” he said. “This partnership goes beyond just business. The personal relationships we have built with you are important to us in the PLDT Group. We thank Liberty Medical Philippines and we look forward to helping you achieve your business goals and enabling your digital enterprise transformation.” Opening its first local office at the Global In-house Center (GIC) in Pasig City. Matulin said that Liberty Medical chose to expand in the Philippines because of the “talented and dedicated” Filipino workforce. “The business systems and structure are all well-aligned with the U.S., which allows for seamless operations between both countries,” he noted. LMPI’s solid commitment to quality care and assistance is reflected in the way PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and Smart Enterprise guide their clients. While it is a new player, LMPI seeks to double its numbers within the next year. “It’s going to be very exciting for the both of us to venture on to the next level of ramping up our business,” Matulin added. CC:

The hardworking men and women of the Enterprise Group.

Raising the Bar

PLDT Enterprise readies for 2016 challenges By Adrian T. Elumba

he PLDT Enterprise unit has capped off 2015 on a high note and is again ready to wage and conquer another battle against the rising headwinds of an even more competitive 2016. Coming off from their annual Enterprise Kick Off, PLDT EVP and Head of EICB Eric Alberto commended the performance of the group’s sales and marketing teams for a great year. With increasing revenues highlighting the performances of the group, the men and women of both PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and SME Nation have marked another stellar year with a total of 11% growth from last year - the highest growth level contributions in the entire PLDT Group in 2015.

Speakers during the Tech Talks session share their insights on the challenges in new market and best practices in today’s industry.

“While our 2015 was a year worth all the applause, let us now move on and look at the present and our collective future.”

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan applauded the efforts of the group and rallied each of the sales and marketing teams to do even more PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan given the challenges commends the hard work of the men and of stiff competition. women from the Enterprise group and urges everyone to be at the top of their game in facing He articulated the the daunting challenges ahead. relevance of the company’s digital transformation and the role that each one has to play to make this vision a reality. “The success of the enterprise is truly because of all of you who The morning session also had unrelentingly engaged in our daily the PLDT Enterprise Kick Off competitive war,” said Alberto.

recognizing the group’s top performers and awarding stellar achievements from both PLDT ALPHA Enterprise and SME Nation. Sessions on topics were tackled during the Tech Talks held in the afternoon. Effectively moderated by MVP Group Media Bureau Chief Mike Toledo, panelists MEF President Nan Chen gave a sneak peak into the unprecedented growth of enterprise data in the age of digital, while Voyager’s Raymund Villanueva discussed breakthrough and innovations that their group are currently developing and marketing. Google PH Country Manager Ken Lingan pointed out very valuable insights for strategies on digital marketing and behaviors, as Flyspaces.com founder Mario Berta passionately shared key points in making that perfect sales pitch. CC:

PLDT officials thank the speakers for their informative discussions during the afternoon session. In photo, from left, are: PLDT VP and Head of SME Nation Mitch Locsin, PLDT FVP and Head of ALPHA Enterprise Jovy Hernandez, Voyager’s Raymund Villanueva, Google PH’s Ken Lingan, MEF President Nan Chen, Flyspaces.com’s Mario Berta, MVP Media Bureau Head Mike Toledo, and PLDT EVP and Head of Enterprise, International, and Carrier Business Eric Alberto.

PLDT VP and Head of SME Nation Mitch Locsin rallies the SME troops in continuing the group’s efforts to better serve more MSMEs in the country.

SME Nation teams from PLDT and Smart unite and collaborate to “Make it Big” this 2016.

Make It Big

SME Group pushes for more collaborations in 2016 By Adrian T. Elumba

PLDT EVP and Head Enterprise, International, and Carrier Business Eric Alberto gives the group’s marching orders and the resounding battlecry to forge ahead of competition.

ith the historic APEC putting the spotlight on this sector, it’s no doubt that 2015 was the year for the MSMEs – and nobody has felt this better than the men and women of the SME Group. Last year, PLDT Smart SME Nation launched a renewed brand, introduced a new head, and widened their market to include the micro-sector, and despite these adjustments, the group proved to deliver a stellar year for 2015 posting continued growth and delivering above their targets. During the group’s annual kickoff and teambuilding exercises, PLDT EVP and Head of EICB Eric R. Alberto commended the

Activities during the teambuilding sessions put to test the team’s collaboration and teamwork to overcome basic obstacles.

group’s efforts in “putting forth an outstanding overall performance in 2015.” PLDT Smart SME Nation’s team activities harked on the collaboration of its members from PLDT and Smart for them to be able to keep their leadership in this segment. With more than 600 employees from the SME Group in attendance, their new head, PLDT VP Mitch Locsin, likened each of the members of the team to a single pixel that form part of and define a much bigger and colorful picture in the digital space conveying the group’s resounding direction “Make it Big.” Making it big means challenging one’s self to improve the employees’

stance in the various aspect of his life – Making it big for one’s self, family, the Company, his community, and for our country. The group pushes for the worklife blend that will best benefit its hardworking men and women, in hopes to maintain SME Nation’s continued growth. It’s still quite early in 2016, but PLDT Smart SME Nation has definitely set the standards from 2015. If they are set to cover new heights, collaborate even more, and renew their thrust to help empower more MSMEs, then there’s nothing else to look forward to but to “Make it Big” in 2016 for PLDT Smart SME Nation.CC:

cover story

Making the best leap in the O

ptimism rules the beginning of every year. Why do we celebrate the New Year with a profusion of food, drinks, round things, and firecrackers? Because the New Year gives us another chance to start afresh. To begin life once again, hoping that we can do better this time: Work smarter, eat healthier, exercise longer, love deeper, and choose to be happier. And while we celebrate January 1 as the start of the year with the rest of the world, we also revel with the Chinese community when they welcome the traditional Chinese New Year or the Spring Festival with dragon dances, lantern parades, moon cakes, round dumplings, glutinous rice pastries, and the inexorable firecrackers. Together with the Chinese New Year comes an animal sign which most of us, Chinese or otherwise, believe in or at least are aware of. According to the International Business Times (www.ibtimes.co.uk/chinese-newyear-2016-when-it-what-does-yearmonkey-mean-1541258), the Chinese zodiac attaches animal signs to each lunar year in a cycle of 12 years.

By Olive O. Barrozo Separated into 12 blocks, each has a time-length of one year instead of one month like its western counterpart. The animal signs - rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig – are each associated with an element such as gold, wood, water, fire, and earth. 2016 greets the year of the fire monkey, ninth of the 12 animals in the recurring 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle. The other monkey years are 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932, 1920, and 1908. Both the animal sign and element of a person’s birth year are said to affect his personality and destiny.

says she has decided at the start of the year to “make Nurture the word that I would try to live by. I would like to continually grow in all aspects of my life, to care for whatever blessings we will be receiving and to nurture and learn from the experiences that 2016 has for us. I am anticipating challenges especially in our home life since we will be expanding our family. Maintaining balance between work and family life would still be a priority for me.”

Sharing their insights on life are two employees who were born in the year of the monkey under different elements. Both of them are bright, witty, versatile, and are raring to live life to the fullest.

Though her father was pure Chinese, MG was raised in a mix of Chinese and Filipino culture since her mother is a Filipina. “My father never imposed on us to strictly follow Chinese norms and traditions except if they would be valuable or beneficial to us.”

Work-Life balance for a devoted mom Mary Grace Ong-Sze, MG to friends,

Her family celebrates Chinese New Year “but we do not necessarily follow all the Chinese traditions. We

Mary Grace Ong-Sze

just have a simple fare to celebrate the occasion.” Born on November 18, 1980 - the year of the Gold Monkey, MG describes herself as “a nice person but with a hint of mischievousness. I guess I have the traits of those born in the year of the monkey. I am witty but can sometimes go overboard with the jokes and pang-aasar.” The IB Times notes that people born in the year of the monkey are believed to be energetic, versatile, bright, mischievous, quick-witted, sociable and selfassured, particularly when it comes to making decisions about their careers and finances. Bright and smart, this customer care specialist, Customer Service Support Management Division, attained a partial scholarship grant from 2nd year college until graduation at the Centro Escolar University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce major in Computer Science and Information Systems. She loves the written word: “I have always been fond of reading, especially fiction as it triggers one’s imagination, even way back in my elementary school days. I began to appreciate prose and poetry in high school so I started to submit my works for our school paper.” Currently one of the most enthusiastic contributors to the Life & Arts Section of Access Magazine, MG has composed inspired essays and heartfelt poetry. Writing about the use of technology at home, this devoted mom of young daughter Georgie was one of the top three winners of the Technotes Writing Contest in 2013. At home, she delights in reading, cooking, making bento for Georgie, and watching movie marathons with husband Michael. Her typical day starts very early: “I am usually the first one to get up in the morning. I wake my husband and daughter so they can get ready for work and school, respectively. I make my daughter’s school baon and then I prepare for work while she eats her

breakfast. If I’m not running late, I sometimes see her off to school, otherwise, we just say goodbye and go our own ways. I call home during my lunch break to ask how my daughter’s day in school went. After work, we have dinner together at home. Activities afterward vary – playing with my daughter, reviewing her lessons or watching TV. We cap the day with our nightly ritual of reading her books before bed.” While MG believes in destiny, there being “a reason for the events that happen in our lives and each of them is part of God’s master plan for us,” another employee who was also born in a year of the monkey defines destiny differently.

PLDT is reputable and one of the most successful companies in the Philippines. I know that I’ll be able to learn many things here and with my learnings, I hope that I can contribute to its continuous success and growth.” His day starts between 5:45 to 6:00 am: “I wake up early to avoid heavy traffic on the road. I eat breakfast in the office and begin the day’s work. Usually, after office, my girlfriend and I eat dinner together. Then I go home, wash up, and either read or watch a movie before sleeping.” At almost 24, JP believes that he has “already met the partner whom I’ll be with forever. I think our differences attracted us and really made us perfect for each other.”

Pursuing goals and dreams for a On movies and young auditor series, he prefers For John Paul M. the Star Wars saga, Soriano, or JP, “destiny Hunger Games, is taking action and and Harry Potter. pursuing our goals “These three movie and dreams.” Born series have great on April 2, 1992, a story lines and Water Monkey year, JP the latter two did considers the Chinese not much deviate zodiac signs but he from the book. John Paul M. Soriano doesn’t rely too much on When it comes to them: “I believe more in hard series, I like watching court dramas work, excellence, and perseverance.” such as How to Get Away with Murder and Suits because of the Although his almond-shaped eyes plot and the unexpected twists. My and light complexion gets him recent favorite book is Dirty Pretty mistaken for having Chinese blood, Things by Michael Faudet. This is JP says he doesn’t have any. But a collection of different prose and he admires the Chinese for their poetry that exemplify simplicity in pragmatism, punctuality, diligence form but exudes depth and emotion and close family ties. in substance.” Bright, energetic, quick-witted, JP Like MG, JP also contributes to the definitely has some of the traits of Life & Arts Section of Access. Asked people born under the ninth animal about his inspiration for his poignant of the zodiac. He graduated with poems, this shy poet says “there is no academic distinction at the De La particular thing or person that really Salle University, Lipa with a BS inspires me to write. I just like writing degree in Accountancy. He was because it is an avenue for me to be in also a recipient of the Star Scholar a different space and setting. It makes program for being one of the top me drift from my frustrations to my entrance examinees as well as an aspirations and lets me dream away.” academic scholarship for his high school achievements. With the Chinese New Year bringing renewed hope, MG, JP, and the rest of His plans for 2016 include travelling humanity have all the right to dream and pursuing further studies and and make it come true. certifications. He foresees more challenging work assignments We can’t get enough of new years where he can learn more and in our lives because they are the develop his skills. wellspring of hope. They bring about possibilities that things will get better An auditor at the Properties and as the brand new path stretches Subsidiaries Audit Division, JP before us – mysterious, pristine and joined PLDT in 2013, choosing to reassuring. CC: be part of the company “because

sidebar Big in Business in the Year of Fire Monkey

PLDT Smart SME Nation, entrepreneurs welcome a prosperous Chinese New Year By Adrian T. Elumba

he start of a new lunar year means a lot for the FilipinoChinese communities. It brings prospect for another prosperous year for their business or guidance for obstacles that could mean closing down shop. So to follow tradition in learning the good fortunes of the heavens for the coming year, PLDT Smart SME Nation again treated their clients to an event-filled reading for the

Fairmont Hotel as they proceeded in “dotting of the dragon’s eyes” which meant protection and creating abundance of energy. Highly respected geomancer Charlie Chao shared his readings of the symbols for the New Year and what the Year of the Fire Monkey has in store for different businesses and industries. This year’s zodiac represents resourcefulness and intelligence—especially in career and wealth— and is said to be spirited, quick-witted, and versatile. He also noted how some industries, such as the telcos, electronics, as well as food and refreshments businesses

PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, center, leads the official start of the celebration for the SME Chinese New Year event for the Filipino-Chinese business clients. Accompanying him on stage are PLDT EVP and Head of EICB, and ePLDT President and CEO Eric R. Alberto and PLDT VP and Head of SME Nation Mitch Locsin.

Guests were encouraged to participate and receive lucky oranges from the traditional Lion and Dragon dance during the opening of the event.

Year of the Fire Monkey. Officially welcoming guests for the night’s festivities, PLDT EVP & EICB Head and ePLDT President and CEO Eric Alberto and PLDT VP and Head of SME Nation Mitch Locsin addressed the well-attended celebration of the

Renowned geomancer Charlie Chao discusses the different readings for businesses at the onset of the Year of the Fire Monkey.

will see good demand this year, and will be bountiful in the Fire Monkey. He also shared advice for bringing in good luck such as the display of this year’s lucky colors like white, red, gold, and other bright colors. For the most part, Chan advised business people to cultivate values like doing charity work, and helping others as a sure

way to attract the good energy and positivity. Those born in the years of the Rat and Rooster are in good favor with the Monkey sign and will have generally good fortunes, while those born in the year of the Tiger need to be extra careful this year. A notable strength of the Monkey is innovation, and as entrepreneurs continue to shift to the digital platform for their businesses, PLDT Smart SME Nation remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate this innovation by providing business owners with technology suites and solutions to take their business to the next level. “Our goal this 2016 is not only to empower small- and mediumsized businesses, but to further expand our coverage to micro enterprises in the country. With the existing digital tools that exponentially level the playing field, MSMEs have the potential to compete not only nationwide, but globally as well. Thus is the mandate that we at PLDT Smart SME Nation adhere to— to provide these MSMEs with more avenues to make it big in business,” shares Mitch Locsin, VP and Head of PLDT Smart SME Nation. Along with Chinese New Year festivities, Smart SME Nation also launched the much-awaited Apple Bizkit to their partners to commemorate the beginning of the New Year. The full-powered BizKit, a perfect tool for every starting entrepreneur, includes business-enhancing gadgets that keep entrepreneurs connected to their customers and updated on operations, even when on the go. CC:

PLDT HOME sales agents explain the Company’s products and services during the event.

Del Rosario joyfully poses with the Aeta children.

Standing 4th from left, Vanessa Caro was hailed as Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2016. Joining here are, from left: Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner-up Ariela Arida, Iloilo City First Lady Marivic Mabilog, PLDT ComRel Head/Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario, Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2015 and Miss PLDT 2015 Ariene Gabriela, Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Miss Iloilo Dinagyang beauty pageant overall chairman Alex Gonzales-Concio, and Mr. International Philippines 2015 Raniel Villaruel.

COLORFUL SPIRIT PLDT supports Dinagyang Festival, embarks on a 4-part outreach program By Katrina A. Mallari

ilipinos have always found ways to enliven the country’s heritage by its wondrous culture, traditions, and religious celebrations. One of the country’s most colorful festivities is the the Ilonggos’ Dinagyang Festival. PLDT revels in this joyous glorification of faith and culture by giving back unsparingly to a community that inspires creativity, spirituality, artistry, and craftsmanship. With its continuous efforts to propagate knowledge and information through quality education, PLDT ComRel supported the launching of the PLDT Community Outreach Alternative Learning System (ALS) Community Learning Center, to which educators were teacher-graduates of the PLDT Infoteach Outreach Program, at Brgy. Lanit, Iloilo City. It is the only learning center for the indigenous people or ati in the City of Iloilo. Moreover, PLDT, in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, Western Visayas Regional Center (PRC WVRC), held its “Dugong PLDT” Blood Letting Project with over 20 successful donors. Continuously looking out for the welfare of others, PLDT, in partnership once again with PRC

WVRC mobile kitchen thru the assistance of the school head and teachers of Nabitasan Elementary School, also had a feeding program in Barangays Magsaysay and Nabitasan reaching out to a total of 250 children each. PLDT ComRel Head and Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario was the Chief Judge during the Ms. Iloilo Dinagyang 2016 Beauty Pageant. PLDT awarded Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Philippines Vanessa Caro from Central Philippine University, Iloilo City a gift check for free 6-months DSL subscription and a PLDT trolley bag. Hailed as Miss PLDT, First runner-up Jeanyfer Ozbot from St. Therese College, Iloilo City was awarded the P5,000 worth of cash, gift check for free 6-months DSL subscription, and a PLDT trolley bag by PLDT. Through PLDT ComRel’s sponsorship during the festival, PLDT HOME offered several brands at the festival’s major venues, including PLDT Home DSL Speedster Fam Plan 1299, PLDT Home Fibr, PLDT Home Ultera, and PLDT Home Telpad as well as its main campaign “Share Like Never Before”. In the main booths,

PLDT HOME highlighted DSL’s All-New Speedster Plan. In line with the festival, they were also able to enhance the booths with entertainment by the Mardi Gras dancers and offered FREE face paint to Dinagyang Festival goers. Throughout the festival, PLDT HOME was able to have a total of 298 applications from various brands. PLDT also supported the first solo exhibit in Museo Iloilo by Architect Arel Zambrano entitled, “Timbutok”, which means Soaring High. Del Rosario led the ribbon-cutting together with Iloilo City Vice Mayor Jose Espinosa III. “The artistry, religiosity, and craftsmanship showcased in Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival were truly aweinspiring,” Del Rosario said. “And there is nothing more beautiful than sharing the same spirit of giving and generosity to the people of this wonderful city.” Everywhere we look, beauty surrounds us. It is in truly immersing oneself in one’s heritage that one rediscovers the many wonderful things that are hidden in every corner of this great archipelago. CC

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Paying Homage to Baguio’s Blooms

PLDT joins Panagbenga 2016 festivities By Olive O. Barrozo

n cool, dreamy Baguio, you can really smell the flowers - literally and figuratively. Flourishing in the delightfully chilly atmosphere, they impart the most eclectic colors. In the thick fog of early mornings, the red, yellow, orange, pink and white blossoms seem to float around in surreal arrangement, you can only gaze in breathless admiration. Their quiet, unpretentious splendor transports you to an idyllic lost horizon-like landscape. At the Panagbenga celebration, these radiant flowers take center stage as they enhance the designs of fabulous floats during the grand parade, one of the highlights of Baguio’s flower festival, held every year from February 1 to March 6. People from all over the country and the world troop to Baguio for this occasion. Raising their smartphones, androids, and tablets, they readily take photos and record the events live on video to post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social networking sites.

PLDT@Panagbenga “This year, the influx of people has increased, with around 2.5 million visitors watching the grand parade,” said PLDT Baguio Customer Service Operations Zone Head John Marasigan. “As early as 4:30 am, Session Road (Baguio’s main thoroughfare) was already full.” Joining the annual Panagbenga, PLDT Community Relations and PLDT HOME supported the celebration this year with a cash sponsorship of P100,000.

“We are very glad to have participated in this renowned flower festival, especially since we were able to discuss better mileage for our sponsorship with the organizers, such as showcasing PLDT’s products and services more prominently in strategic areas,” said PLDT ComRel Head and Consultant Evelyn del Rosario. Connecting Baguio residents and visitors to their families and friends around the country and the world are PLDT’s various multimedia products and services. These were displayed in the PLDT HOME Truck which was parked at the Melvin Jones Grandstand in Burnham Park from February 27 to 28 to entertain crowds who experienced the exciting new features of PLDT products and services such as the Telpad, Famcam, TVo box and stick, DSL, Ultera, and Cignal TV. Seizing that FAMTASTIC Sale PLDT Booths, located around the city, offered the FAMTASTIC Sale Weekend and Switch for DSL and Telpad Plans, with free USB, DSL Calendar, and Telpad Bluetooth speakers to applicants for any DSL and Telpad Plans. “Eager to avail of the Weekend Sale and the free installation promo, a lot of people - coming not only from Baguio but also from as far away as Pangasinan and La Union - went to the PLDT booths to sign-up for the Plans,” Marasigan said. According to PLDT VP and HOME Marketing Director Gary Dujali, “The HOME DSL and Telpad Plans are packed with great values for Baguio residents and

The iconic Burnham Park Lake.

Baguio residents and tourists visit the PLDT Booths located around the city.

One of the vibrant floats at the Panagbenga 2016 Grand Parade.

Panagbenga visitors. It is also beneficial to subscribe to the All-New Speedster Fam Plan 1299 which is now 5x faster and runs at up to 10Mbps speed. With this plan, Baguio subscribers as well as those from the rest of the country can enjoy 50Gb monthly allowance while sharing 6Gb to their family members’ smartphones.”

Shown is one of the many families who applied for a DSL Plan at the PLDT HOME Truck.

“At the product demonstrations, we were able to show PLDT’s value-added services that some of the throngs of visitors didn’t know about until then,” Marasigan added. “They were impressed by the clarity of Cignal TV via Fiber as well as the enviable features of Famcam and Telpad.” PLDT also provided the crowds at Melvin Jones with free premium WiFi that ran through PLDT’s FiberTo-The-Home connection, enabling them to update their families and friends of the Panagbenga activities through various social media sites. Panagbenga attendees were also treated to face painting sessions for free at the PLDT Booth on the Athletic Bowl. In support of the Local Government Unit’s (LGU) invitation to decorate offices, PLDT ComRel sponsored the landscaping of the PLDT Baguio façade. It also hosted breakfast for LGUs during the Session Road in Bloom event. As the festivities winded down to a close and visitors and vendors started to go back to their homes near and far, Baguio reverts to its tranquil old self. The exquisite flowers remain, oblivious of their beauty and the wonder they elicited from people around the country and the world who will return next year and the years after that, to gaze in admiration at their interminable resplendence. CC:

At the Melvin Jones Grand Stand in Burnham Park are PLDT Baguio Customer Service Operations Zone Head John Marasigan and PLDT ComRel Head and Consultant Evelyn M. del Rosario, extreme left and right, respectively, with US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, 3rd from left, and his executive assistant.

Another distinctive float that joined the Grand Parade.

Top bloggers such as Jane Uymatiao of Philippine Beat and mom blogger Noemi Dado flex their digits to join the conversation on Twitter.

PLDT supports TV5’s first-ever

Urban planner Karima Palafox imparts doable insights on how to empower Filipinos’ mobility.

V5 recently launched its “Bilang Pilipino, Anon’ng Say Mo?” talks, a series of meaningful conversations where Filipinos tackle national issues that the next administration should address. The launch was in a the form of a Tweet-Up, which gathered social media influencers from the MVP Group, together with key opinion makers and media personalities. The first-ever Bilang Pilipino, Ano’ng Say Mo dominated social media platforms and #BilangPilipino even became one of the trending topics on Twitter for that day.

Architect Paulo Alcazaren shares the improvements done along Roxas Boulevard to make it more friendly to pedestrians.

For its first salvo, Bilang Pilipino, Ano’ng Say Mo took on the herculean task of dissecting the issue of traffic in Metro Manila, and invited Urban Planner Karima Palafox and Philippine Star columnist Architect Paulo Alcazaren as keynote speakers. Imparting insights from an expert’s point of view, both Palafox and Alcazaren underscored the need for the next President to undertake long-term solutions that will counter the prediction of Manila being “uninhabitable” by 2020.

“Cleaning and clearing are the first steps, reducing garbage and blockages, and creating more rails than roads,” said Alcazaren. “Now is the best time for the Philippine government to find ways on how to encourage motorists to get out of their cars when it’s possible for them to walk,” urged Palafox. “When you guys choose whom to vote, go for the one who would really have the political will to apply these difficult solutions that we’re talking about.”

The Tweet-Up event is livestreamed by TV5 for netizens to join the discussion wherever they may be.

TV5 President Noel Lorenzana highlights the initiatives of TV5 and the Bilang Pilipino campaign for the upcoming elections.

#BilangPilipino #DuterteCayetanoInUST #TheLiveBibleExposition #MYXPremiereFerrisWheel #TujamoXTimmy4Chroma

PBA ballers from Talk N Text join this meaningful initiative.

TV5’s very own satirical candidate, Jun Sabayton aka B.A.Y.A.W, throws in some insights to ponder on.

PLDT Spokesperson and Public Affairs Head Mon Isberto serves as the main host and moderator during the digital discourse, while MVP Media Bureau’s PR Officers Sarah Azucena of PLDT Media and Marco Mañalac of Meralco co-host the event.

PLDT is a proud partner of Bilang Pilipino, TV5’s extensive coverage of the 2016 elections, and its voter education initiatives. Watch out for the next Bilang Pilipino, Ano’ng Say Mo talk, and use that social media clout to join relevant discussions on national issues. CC:

FOUR the love of golf

Philippine Star Sports Editor Lito Tacujan swings for the score.

MVP Sports Foundation executive Patricia Hizon shows girl power in the greens.

The MVP Media Golf Cup

just keeps getting bigger and better each year

he biggest and still the most-anticipated golf event in the media circuit is now on its fourth year, with bigger prizes and more excitement in the fairways. Held recently at the sprawling Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club, PLDT Media, together with First Pacific and the MVP Media Bureau, led the fun and friendly competition which was well-attended by almost 60 highprofile media personalities and around 30 playing executives from MVP-led companies. All of the media players put on their golfer’s hat but there were a few who stood out among the rest. Fox Sports anchor Vince Hizon took home the 3rd Runner-Up title, just a few points from 2nd Runner-Up winner and Business Mirror Vice President Ricky Alegre. Business Mirror Editor Mike Besa claimed the Champion title, while Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Assistant Business Editor Corrie Narisma received the “Lady of the Fairway” award for exhibiting the best gaming performance among all the female participants. Manila Broadcasting Corporation

By Sarah G. Azucena-Reodica

Everyone is having a great time, but more importantly, the camaraderie and friendship between the media players and executives are evident all throughout the event.

President Jun Nicdao, on the other hand, received the title “King of the Driving Range” for besting all of the media players. For the fourth time, Print Media bagged the top plum for winning against the Broadcast Media as Overall Champions.

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan welcomes media guests to his eponymous Golf Cup.

Not to be outdone, some MVP Group executives showcased their mad golfing skills, too. TV5’s Ramon Torribio and Smart’s Rolando Carandang, Jr. took home the 1st and runner-up titles, respectively, while TV5 heartthrob and leading man Derek Ramsay showed his winning form and bagged Champion. But it was Spin.ph Editor-in-Chief Dodo Catacutan who got thanked the lucky stars for winning the grand raffle prize: a very handsome, brandnew Toyota Altis courtesy of First Pacific. This early, media players and executives are already starting to practice and sharpen their playing skills, because they know that next year’s Cup will be five times more competitive, five times more fun, and definitely five times more exciting. CC:

Media players bring their A Game.

MBC’s Jun Nicdao receives the King of the Driving Range award from TV5’s Vitto Lazatin and MVP Media Bureau Head Atty. Mike Toledo, while PDI’s Corrie Narisma happily accepts the Lady of the Fairways award from Derek Ramsay.

Spin.ph Editor-in-Chief Dodo Catacutan, left, will be driving home a brand-new Toyota Altis. He is joined by MVP, and TV5 star and event host Tuesday Vargas.

Print Media bags the Overall Champions versus Broadcast Media for four years in a row.

Participants revel in promising opportunities to thrive with meaningful after the commitment rites.

EmpDev Trumpets Meaningful Change for Maynilad Project

henever major changes happen in organizations, the challenge lies in how they can be handled with the least disequilibrium. The climate has to be set. Mindsets have to be primed up. Indoctrination on rationale and foreseen gains cannot happen automatically. Even before a good communication plan can be mounted, we have to anticipate resistance and ambivalence from those who might see themselves as targets, or even victims of abrupt transformation. Change is a universal phenomenon whether they happen gradually or radically. Anyone stands to benefit by preparing himself mentally and emotionally for the ambiguous and unpredictable. But leaders need to champion it. When they find themselves groping, it will become very difficult to lead it. Change must be handled responsibly. When Maynilad HR Head Levi Deistro and EmpRel Head Enrico Lopez conferred with PLDT EmpDev Head Nonong Noriega on the best approach for the first phase of a change plan for Maynilad’s Project Management Department, they have arrived at a decision to seize the opportunity of assembling its 101 employees for a two-day learning event on Taking Charge of Change. Here, highlights of Towers Watson’s Employee Opinion Survey findings were communicated which helped articulate the need for forthcoming change imperatives. Structured interactive exercises were interwoven between lectures

on the four stages of coping with change (denial, protest, bargain embrace), transformation strategies that help grow the business further, millennial trends on customer experience management and culture building. It became sort of a teambuilding intervention where the concept of being a good team player transcends one’s being housed in a particular unit to wherever you’ll find yourself in the company later on. Here are excerpts of reactions from the enlightened participants: “In this world, nothing is constant… only change is constant. We have to keep moving, growing, thriving.” – Janebelle Dellosa “I am from the province working in Metro Manila, away from my family. I only come home three to four times a year during long weekends. The session refreshed me as to where I came from, my roots, how I was raised and how I am now supposed to be a better person. Thank you for this wonderful experience.” – Kingston James dela Cruz “Be appreciative of what you have and embrace change with a positive outlook.” – Wilfredo Taberna, Jr. “Once in a while, we need to pause from our busy schedule to learn and discover something new, to throw out what is keeping us stagnant…” – Fe Pasuengos

EmpDev Head Nonong Noriega at the helm of facilitating the ‘change mindset’ intervention.

“I realize that we have to embrace change that will happen in our organization this 2016 or in the coming years, We have to trust our organization. Just remember that wherever we are, God is.” – Esperanza Raymundo “With change, you are moving forward. Without it, you are moving backwards. Embrace change!” – Phil Puno “If I rest and stay within my comfort zone, I rust and will never ever grow. So goodbye comfort zone and welcome new life!” – John Carlo Prieto “We need this. In the office, there’s too much diversity in terms of age, school background, interests and positions that creates chasm between colleagues. This breaks the barrier. This is the real teambuilding.” – Ariel Canete Succeeding phases include a special training for leaders on Managing Change in a Transforming Environment, town hall meetings to cascade specifics and symbolic turnover rites for movements. CC:

THE BANDWAGONER

By Nonong noriega

The Bandwagonner processes insights from a team exercise meant to surface threshold for disruptions and setbacks and how to move forward with wiser resolve during a behavioral session with South Luzon Fixed Network Access engineers in Bicol.

The challenge of

managingdisruptions

erciless rush. Reminds me of the title of an old Broadway musical: Stop the World. I Want to Get Off! But life seldom allows us to halt and freeze-frame the action. We’re entering the last stretch of the first quarter of the year. Industry leaders don’t want to be on the catch up mode. They’re meant to set the pace. But trends have been very disruptive. The flagship projects we cast nowadays do not often have a time horizon for a whole year’s duration. Game changers are bound to arise and we have to be ready with contingencies.

their preferences felt on what’s available in the menu of digital options. Certain sectors would opt for their presence on Twitter while others find more substantial mileage in a Facebook page.

Is there a definite way to futureproof the business? With all the strategies being mapped out, we have to be constantly in the lookout for what our customers really want from us. Today’s data base may be populated with findings that may tell a different story for the next months. Even in social media, new engines emerge and millennials are quick to make

One side has it that’s it’s about being more territorial. There should be more on one’s war chest that can quickly match what’s out there. Bundled packages.Accessibility choices. Quick wins on network wonders. Technology marvels to boot.

Some experts argue that the premium of the hour should be on customer education. With all the business solutions we creatively concoct and digital services we market robustly, we cannot assume instant customer aptitude because there’s just too many in the service menu that competes for their attention, consideration and eventual purchase.

In our attempt to put more science into all these, we may possibly neglect actual immersion with

the unpredictable dynamics of the battlefield. We crunch numbers, we profile and segment markets, craft attacks and counter-attacks only to be taken by surprise with a major invasion in our sphere of strongholds. Questions.Questions. In fact, more questions than ready answers for now. We need to pick on each other’s brains and import a lot of competitive talent from the global pool. Head hunters are quick to bring the right trailblazers aboard transformation journeys. But I suppose the wisest move of a challenged organization will be how to genuinely and staunchly make customer centricity the overarching theme, or driving force that will get everyone glued and fixated to a common cause.Steadfastly. Uncompromisingly! CC:

life

arts

He Will Carry By Winona Zerla B. Santos, Regulatory Strategy and Support The challenges of life is a tough road to take Smiles need to be alive for loved ones’ sake The adventure of a new path keeps the sanity But watch out for the tendencies of reality A tortured soul, a tormented mind A body shaken falls behind Don’t break ! Move on and look around Grab on the hope you find in every pound

Dark Choco (She Loves me not) Painting by Jeffrey S. Quilatan, IT Innovation & Digital Management Medium: Acrylic

Look up ! Don’t you see ? When you are weak He will carry “Get rid of the shadows of your fear ” His whisper makes everything so clear.

poetry | prose | artworks | photography

forget you, not By Paula R I want to forget you, I really do But these are the things that I have to go through… Forget the bad memories Although, I realize, there were none. It all boils down to the day you were gone.

Forget how it felt to lean against your chest That secure feeling when your heart beat with mine These little things were always the best But now, all memories, makings of the mind.

Forget all the smiles and laughter we shared, How every moment made me feel like you cared. Our plans and wishes, now they swim with the fishes. Look at me! You can’t even dare.

Forget that chiseled face I never tire of staring at Those eyes filled with soul and purpose, you always looked so fine The smile that always welcomed me, didn’t think that was a mask I guess I loved you too much to see the war you kept inside.

Forget the touch that gave me comfort The warm, tight hugs and the sweet words you uttered Fingers meshed, kisses on the forehead Surely somehow you felt it too... but now it’s just dead.

Forget how you easily decided on your own To give up the fight and face things alone. I want to forget the stabbing pain to my heart When you gave me up, just like that.

Forget the wise man I enjoyed having conversations with The sweet gentleman who made me feel like a lady The best friend who always had my back The witty boy who made me laugh and go crazy.

I want to forget you, I really do Now allow me to convince myself ‘til I actually do.

Broken Hearted Artwork by Danny “Bimbo” Handayan, PLDT Tondo Sales & Service Center

hugot Ni Ma. Leonora S. Malenab, Cauayan SSC Ako ay nagtataka, kung bakit ito ngayon ang nauso sa social media, Ang salitang “hugot,” na kay lalim ang dala dala. Di ko mawari, sa puso’t isip, mga dahilan kung bakit, Pero alam ko ito’y sadyang ginamit, maiparating lang ang mga hinanakit. Ako’y nagnilay nilay, at nagtanong sa sarili, Ako rin ba’y may hugot? Bakit sa labi ko, ito ay namumutawi. May mga araw na ako’y masaya, malungkot, a t nadidismaya, May mga araw ding ako’y punung puno ng sigla. Hinahayag ko ang aking mga nararamdaman, Sa Facebook akin nang pinangangalandakan! Nakita ko kung paano naapektuhan, Ang pamilya’t mga kaibigan ko, na sa aki’y nagmamahal. Ako’y napupuno ng pag asa, pag sila’y dumamay na, Ang hugot sa puso ko’y biglang naiibsan na, Napaparam ang lungkot, napapalitan ng ligaya! Subalit, datapwat, hindi pala ako nag-iisa. Marami ang kagaya ko, mas mabigat ang mga hugot nila! Karamihan sa pag-ibig, sila’y nababaliw at nadidismaya. Ay, hala, mga bigo pala sila! Anuman ang pinagdadaanan, mabigat man kung titingnan, Walang problemang hindi malulunasan, Bukod sa mga pamilya’t mga kaibigan, Nandiyan ang Diyos, Siya ang gagawa ng paraan! Ating pakaisipin, anuman ang suliranin, Lahat ay may solusyon, ang loob pagtibayin. Lahat may hugot , lahat may dahilan, At kung ano man yan, hugutin mo lang at panindigan!

Crumbs By Arlyn Dungca-Del Prado, Corporate Business Crumbs of attention Crumbs of time Moving On letting Go No one deserves crumbs The heart is not something to traipse around Either you love or not love at all Patience tested Patience running out

when the game master quits the game By Raissa G.Buitizon, student-trainee, First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities For the man I loved five years ago I know you are having a hard time making a decision right now, And I want you to know that all these things add more pain as time goes by If you can’t decide maybe I could, maybe I should try to let you go. I don’t care if you think that I’m selfish in this way, but this time I won’t falter, I think this would be the best for the both of us. I’m not giving up for our love, instead I’m giving freedom to myself. I’m so pathetic, I’m bitter, and I’m a loser I try hard to recover, but it just keeps getting worse… So I think I’ve done my part and yet nothing changes… Maybe it’s time to say goodbye. I quit Without apology Without gratitude But love will remain.

F lipping Out Book Review by Mark Jason B. Teves, Cash Accounting & Assurance Division I met a pair of cold gray eyes before Back then they seemed everything but cold Dream-state inducing, heart and lungs were clutched Sought for chills to those that they behold But me and those eyes ended up badly More honestly, I should say at none Their gazes fixed, saw me as walking sin Labeled my soul, mocked, bid me to run (Book: FLIPPED by Wendelin Van Draanen)

am someone who defers watching a book-based film before I finish reading the book. I cannot remember the last time that has happened otherwise, except for LOTR. Until this one. I was tinkering with the contents of a computer, one day. You know, searching through the drives for any files that might come up interesting when I saw it. Flipped (2010). Mkv file. Bingo. I watched half of it at lunch and I stayed late to finish it. I went on a semi-obsession mode. You know that time when your favorite soap opera ended and you just can’t get over it? That was me. Before I went home, I knew all there was to know about the movie - the cast, backstory, and the fact that it was originally based on a book by Wendelin Van Draanen. I walked partly on my way home to start saving money for it. The book screams of a “crush” story. A simple crush. Boy moves in to new neighborhood. Girl next door sets sight on boy and falls for his eyes. Boy sees girl next door, decides then and there that she is a pest. Crush continues on to high school. Simple. Julianna likes Bryce. Bryce doesn’t. It’s a light and quick read, not much fuss, and yet the entertainment factor is high. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t need to be hooked on a book to like it. Sometimes you just like it. Presented in both Julianna and Bryce’s point of view, the writing is not just “straight-uppre-teen-baby-love” shtick. It is well thought of and flows just right. When it comes to love stories, I typically gravitate either to the really young demographic or those with older couples. There is something about the innocence of young love and the finality of an aged commitment that is more believable. They do not require the cliché of cringe worthy catch phrases from young adult novels. It just goes through the story as it is: a story. And often times it is just what a reader needs. There is always a plus in children’s books. By children’s book, I don’t mean the “See oh sees” and the “Run Bantay Run” types. I’m talking about the books that were obviously written for a younger market but would not give a 30-year-old a vocabulary lesson. I always say that the best books are those that grow old with the reader. That as one ages and reads it again, you find things that you, as an elementary kid, would not catch. But now that you are supposedly older, you do get it. Suffice it to say, if you are a parent and you want to give your teen-age daughter something to read and take her head off the infernal gadgets of her generation, this could be a nice gift. So what am I doing with this book? Last time I checked, I am not someone’s daughter. I am not pre-teen and although I don’t look my age, I must say that I will not pass for a high school student any longer. What’s in it for me? Well. I finished the book taking in the sight of a sycamore tree. I closed it and carried with me a jumble of eggs, chickens, lies, and bravery all in a confusing mix. I grasped on the notion of character, how it can change and why it is important for me to stick to the true side of me. I slept after reading it and lulled myself to this sense of freedom from the encumbrances of a so-called love. I woke up and felt like telling myself that I am a part of a beautiful sum. The poem above is from something I wrote more than 10 years ago. I felt it continued and recurred from time to time and most horribly, just recently. After reading Flipped, I felt like adding a few more lines: So now as I turn and see another Cold gray eyes, fair, if not more, anew I try to see the cold despite the warmth Past its view, that view! Wait for what’s true Funny how children’s books could make you think more than a literal text book. CC:

iced latte By Marjory C. Sy, ProdServ You like your latte iced, not warm or hot Non-fat milk and no sugar, medium-sized Every time you have it, you say it hits the spot I look at you enjoying it and get mesmerized People say I have a weird taste of preferences I like guys who are best considered as technical references In terms of physique, they are slim, lanky and very tall I get electrified by thrills every time they message or call I admire guys who tend to act aloof, distant and cold Those who seem to live in galaxies far and away I am attracted to the mystery, the peculiarity they hold Their awkward, forced smile towards me make my day My world then was like steaming hot, black espresso Where work is the only sphere I treat with love and gusto When you abruptly enter my universe, you disrupt and shake me up Listening to you, catching glimpses of you and iced latte become my favorite cup

XO Girl

By Alexander G. Mempin, IT Operations Support Systems I still remember the first time I looked into her eyes.. And felt my entire world flip. She is one extra ordinary girl.. That any man would love to find. The way she smiles ohh God.. She may be an angel from the sky above. Her smile can clear your vision For what’s really the meaning of beauty in motion. Her voice makes you feel awake.. and can Make you do things whatever it takes. Her beauty makes you wonder if you Are only just dreamin’ of a Queen.. And you will Give your whole kingdom just to be her King. Beauty, brain and heart, what else can you ask for? She has all these and more This extra ordinary girl that you will love Forevermore.

To daydream about you is an understatement of how I feel As I imagine future as your wife and pray that it’s also His Will Your iced latte swirls, twirls and whirls into my system The sound of your name and that manly voice turn into my heart’s anthem This is an addiction too much to resist Your iced latte, your smile and cheeky kiss

love and you By Maricris U. Torres, Enterprise Billing Management To love is to open your heart to someone. It is a giving up of an integral part of you to another human being. At least I hope it is a human being you’re loving! You open up yourself to another in hopes that they will reciprocate. It is a give and take relationship. Not a take and take or a give and give relationship. It is a partnership in triumphs and hardships. That’s why they coined the term, “For better or worse” Loving means, taking his or her shit! Just as it means dishing it out yourself. When you find that special someone that understands you, Accepts you and guides you to be the best you that you can be, That is love Hold on and hold fast Sometimes it does not last Don’t worry though, That is just the way life is. Just because a person turns their back on you, doesn’t mean you are no longer you You do know this goes vice versa, right?

Reflections of a Desolate Individual By Aldwin P. Estrada, HOME Outbound & Customer Serv Escalation

o start with, I want to thank you for coming into my life. To tell you honestly I’m really at a loss for words now maybe because the inevitable is closing in and I’m about to lose the one person who made me live again. I can’t think straight, my emotions overflow. You keep reminding me that this time would come eventually so I should prepare and not feel sad. But I’m sorry I can’t help it. I’m just human after all. At the back of my mind I keep wishing, praying even, that hopefully there we will have more time together. But maybe that’s asking too much. I really don’t know what to do or what to say anymore. I’m dumbfounded by the tremendous throbbing of my chest, a familiar feeling of pain and loneliness. It’s really ironic how reality has a way of bringing you back to its harsh terrain. That the happiness and love I’ve experienced are all just a dream and now I have to wake up and face my nightmare of a life.

get it right no matter how hard I try, no matter how patient I am, no matter how much effort I put in, the result is always the same. Failure, hurt, sadness. At least I’ll have memories, right? Beautiful memories of you filling my heart with love, opening my world to the wonderful colors of life. For a time I was happy, very happy. Unfortunately happy endings only happen in teeny bopper movies and telenovelas. I’m not sure what will be harder for me, pretending to have a happy life or pretending that I’ll ever get over you. CC:

Sometimes I can’t help but ask what has become of me, do I deserve this kind of suffering? Am I such a bad person to be punished like this? Then again maybe I am, maybe this is really my destiny. Cursed to walk this wretched earth in pain and in gloom. I’m sorry if I’m being incoherent, just need to unburden myself a little I guess. I would like also to take this opportunity to apologize and say sorry to you for all my shortcomings, childishness and all the inconveniences you had to endure because of me. Basically sorry if I ruined your happy world, and caused you discomfort and unnecessary worries, risks and GUILT. I guess with me gone you’ll be able to go back to your happy world and finally have peace. As for me, I’ll probably……………….. di ko na alam bahala na si Batman…………………..pagod na rin ako kakapretend naI’m ok and that I’m fine. Pagod na pagod na kong umiyak, masaktan at mag-isa…………………sobra! Alam mo iniisip ko na lang na maybe in another lifetime I’ll have a chance, in another life, I’ll have you as my own. Then maybe I’ll be happy finally. My life right know is one big pathetic plea. How tragic. I can’t seem to

Artwork By Edgar Dominic Modina Diaz, Student Trainee – Lyceum of the Philippines University

silent tears By Loida V. Nardo, Fixed Service Network Quality Assurance The day I handed you my letter Saying goodbye and leave you forever, I just can’t hide the pain I felt inside I’ve got to run away and silent tears I cried. I know it’s no use to cling on ‘Coz my heart I know is too weak to go on, But I can never conceal the desire of my heart To love you forever even if we’re apart. I know and I’m sure I will never forget

This love remains and this feeling I felt, But true love is willing to live and sacrifice ‘Coz I don’t want to cause you any trouble in life. Every time I see you I wish I could be The picture of happiness as I seem to be, But if you could only read beneath the smiles Broken heart that sheds a thousand cries. No one will ever replace in my heart The love that inspired and lifted me up Someday somehow, wish I could face you strong These silent tears I cried you will find no more.

Cecille and Jeff

By Olive O. Barrozo, Media

“Y

ou can’t go to the party tonight Cecille,” her mother said with a tone of finality.

“But Mama, I cleaned the house, cooked lunch and dinner, washed the dishes,” she pleaded. “You did and I appreciate that but doing these domestic chores is totally unrelated to attending a party. One doesn’t have anything to do with the other.” “Mama, you know what I mean. I’m just taking a break tonight from all the cleaning and washing I’ve been doing all summer. It’s just a party and you know the people who will be there.”

“Oh, you were classmates? We call her Marilen at home. She goes to St. Scho now. I’ll tell her I met you… How come I’ve never seen you before? Do you even go out?” Thus began the riveting fairy tale that never quite ended for Cecille.

“No, I don’t know all of them. Besides, the owner of the house where the party will take place should ask my permission, no more no less.”

When Jeff went to visit her at home, they talked for about half an hour but her father snubbed him and his car was stoned by teenagers on the street.

“Mama, this is a party thrown by a group of friends, they’re just holding it in that house because it’s big and can accommodate more people. The owners are not even at home.”

“He’s one of Rory’s children, isn’t he? I see the similarities,” commented her mother after Jeff left. She knew his parents. In the relatively small town where they live, everybody is familiar with everybody else. “I don’t see him around, does he go to school in Manila?”

“How about the owners’ son or daughter who are in the party? Why don’t they come here to ask my permission instead of a former student who’s also just an invitee?” “He is one of the organizers, not just an invitee.” “No, I can’t let you go there. You’re too young to be going to parties. Wait till you’re 18.” “Will anybody still invite me when I’m 18?” mumbled a sulking, defeated Cecille who just missed another party, another opportunity to see Jeff, her crush of four months – the reason behind the beautiful essays in English class, the good grades, and the boundless energy to do housework this summer. Tall, dark, well-built, and with a heart-melting smile, Jeff defined the word handsome for Cecille. They met at a party, one of those rare occasions she was allowed to attend because her mother trusted the person who invited her but she had to go with a chaperone, nevertheless.

“He’s just here for the summer break, he’s taking up engineering in Mapua and will become a civil engineer like his dad.” “Mapwa? Hmmm.That’s a good engineering school.” “It’s Mapu-wa, Mama.” “Whatever. Mapuwa, Mapwa, they’re the same. Don’t you get serious with this Jeff, Cecilia. You’re only 14, too young for these things.” “Juliet was 13 when she fell in love.” “Juliet who?” “Juliet from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet?”

At that party, a college-looking man shyly introduced himself to Cecille: “Hi, I’m Jeff. I wanted to talk to you earlier but you were busy talking with friends.” She saw him driving the car that fetched her earlier.

“Look what happened to them! But don’t get wise with me. Think about Jeff ’s family’s social standing. Don’t you see the big gap that separates you from him? They’re rich and we’re poor. They’ll look down on you and treat you badly if you marry into this family.”

“Hi! I know your sister, Elena, from elementary school,” Cecille answered.

They won’t, thought Cecille. I’ll become a career girl someday, I’ll be up there with them before they know it.

Unlike the love-struck Romeo, Jeff did not find ways to see Cecille in the midst of parental opposition and strict rules. They eventually drifted apart, Jeff sticking to his own circle in the more affluent part of town and Cecille in the poorer section with her public school friends. But nothing could dampen her hopes. Not Jeff ’s indifference or the news that he’s dating another girl. Cecille’s overriding thoughts tell her: it’s for the time being, while you’re still in school. He’ll get over her once he sees you again. She never doubted that they would meet again. Her dreams tell her so. And she never forgot Jeff ’s words: “I’m 17, you’re 14, and we’re perfect for each other!”

“Hellooo Elena!” exclaimed a breathless Cecille. “Cecilia, hello! You’re working here too? How nice to see you.”

Cecille made good on her promise. Seven years later, she was already working with one of the country’s large corporations, having graduated with honors and on full scholarship from a prestigious university. She chose to work in Makati’s financial district after graduation because she was quite sure it was the place where she’ll eventually meet Jeff. She thought, this time, it will be for real because we’re no longer teenagers. Now, I’m 21 and he’s 24, nothing could be more perfect!

“Jeff got married last summer. He’s also working here in Makati…”

She was walking along Ayala Avenue one day when she bumped into Jeff ’s sister Elena, her grade school classmate. Immediately buoyed by the sudden meeting, her racing thoughts were unrelenting: See, I knew Jeff and I were meant for each other. Why else would I come across Elena, of all people!

Pleasantries followed, and finally, the pivotal question she’s been dying to ask: “How’s your brother Jeff ?” “Oh! Didn’t you know?” “Know what?”

Cecille was no longer listening. The buildings opposite them seemed to crumble before her eyes. She would have wanted to run to the nearest sink to wash off her gathering tears like the lead actress in an old movie who had to wash her face when she discovered, after searching far and wide, that her long-lost husband now has a new family and couldn’t remember her. But there were no sinks nearby. And she wasn’t acting in a movie. This was real life. And she has to live with the reality that Jeff will not be a part of her future. Her dreams didn’t come true this time, and at 21 and 24, they are not perfect together. They never were. Even at 14 and 17. CC:

難忘情

unforgettable l.o.v.e. (liking on vast expanse) By Marjory Sy, Prodserv “Love isn’t something you find. Love is something that finds you.” - Loretta Young 陈南 You are the North Star, shining brightly like no other Beaming through the rough waves of the technology storm A visionary, your ingenuity expands and disrupts the mundane norm Always energized, you run like leopard and do things better, faster

赧 I blush by your online pictures or the mere mention of your name Setting my frozen heart in motion again, reigniting the passion flame I know this is another case of affection on a one-way street As I may just be another face in the crowd or a random stranger you meet

难 I find it hard to take my eyes off you as you captivate my heart Some may find it weird how much I admire you, near or afar Intelligence and suave personality are difficult to miss Including the surprise that came to my cheeks in the form of a kiss

南 All these crazy hallucinations started when you speak your mind You have me intoxicated with your diverse talent, getting better like fine wine Breaking through the great walls I have put up over the years I put myself at risk of being hurt again by the truth, bringing me to tears

男 You are the man-of-the-hour in my universe now I may have discretely let you feel that honor somehow Crazy how it sounds, you become the main actor in my dreams Bumping off someone as the numero uno, crème dela crème

南 You can never be mine, I am left alone again With more blank pages to fill and close-to-empty ink pen The creative mind fixated in our picture together Wishing for my version of the road to forever

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