ACC:ESS January 2017 by PLDT Media

january

2017

About the Cover True to its vision of empowering and inspiring the Filipinos, PLDT continues to create a better tomorrow through its unifying thread of innovations. To celebrate a fresh start, featured in the cover of ACC:ESS maiden issue for 2017 is the color of the year – Greenery. Conveying progression and a pioneering spirit, it portrays an entrepreneurial essence, boldness and modernity that aligns with the Company’s continuous efforts to embrace its digital pivot.

janua

2017

news 03 4th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy PLDT, Smart link devotees in PH 04 PLDT wins top honors at the MEF Excellence Awards 2016 05 Telco services in Davao Oriental improved 06 2016 TOYM Awards Recognizing positive changes 07 FAM ZONE Partnership PLDT Home Fibr revolutionizes home security 09 PLDT kickstarts 2017 Infoteach Outreach program

features 11 New PLDT SSCs set up in Manila and Laguna 12 PLDT HOME launches new concept store in Cebu 14 Enabling Start-Up Communities QBO Innovation Hub launches 1st mentor match-up 16 #BetterTomorrow Exciting tech trends and innovations for 2017 Cover Story 18 Supporting Dreams, Bettering Lives PDRF, USAID launch livelihood programs thru BREACH project 19 Sinulog Festival 2017 Connecting people in celebration of faith 24 ACC:ESS Life & Arts Thanksgiving Event In the realm of writers and artists

regulars 01 From the Editor 02 delivering Awesome Customer Service 10 Snapshots 23 The Bandwagoner 25 Life & Arts

25 19 PLDT MEDIA VISION STATEMENT

To be the proactive strategic communications partner of our stakeholders so that together we can inspire brand love and loyalty for PLDT. #SUPERMEDIA

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

Olive O. Barrozo Literary Editor

Nonong F. Noriega Columnist

EDITORIAL Butch G. Jimenez Editor

Adrian T. Elumba Sarah Azucena-Reodica Katrina A. Mallari Raymond C. Co Writers Daniel G. Moratalla Jay F. Garcia Photographers

Carlo D. Gonzalez Mark Daryll P. Sambat Graphic Design

Jay-Anne R. Encarnado Editor-in-Chief Sennen F. Lacsamana Managing Editor Ederic P. Eder Social Media Officer

Annie O. Salazar Arnel N. Samson Circulation

Contributors Liza R. Agullo, Cherry W. Alaban, Melvin Artugue, Cyril L. Bonavente, Laemar Chavez, Farah Coyoca, Christian Imperio, Leonora S. Malenab, Ma. Katherine Marajas,Loy Verdadero Nardo, Kristyl Palma, Cora Perez, Marina Rowena I. Pumar, Rheb Rosales, Marjory C. Sy, Bienvenido Timoteo II

From the

Editor

Jay-Anne R. Encarnado

Annus Mirabilis

n a recent interview with journalists, PLDT Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan described 2016 as an annus horribilis or “horrible year” for the Company as we saw a decline in our profits and erosion in our share of the wireless market. “We fell into a hole,” MVP said. But he also said that, “We will be out of it.” Indeed, 2017 might be our annus mirabilis or the “year of miracles” when we hope to finally move forward in our digital transformation and overturn our fortunes. And how can we go wrong when we started the year with the 4th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy as a connectivity partner for some 4,000 devotees around the world who flew into the country for this divine celebration? This was followed by another religious revelry in Cebu – the Sinulog Festival. As the title of the article on page 19 headlined, PLDT was able to help connect the people in the celebration of faith as a major sponsor of this annual festival that honors the Child Jesus. We have also opened new offices that will enable us to serve our customers better. Featuring the innovative products and services of PLDT HOME, we opened the latest PLDT concept store in Cebu’s SM Seaside City and new Sales and Services Centers (SSCs) in SM Manila and the Pavilion Mall in Biñan, Laguna.

through opening up interconnection links with another telco operator in Davao Oriental. We continue to serve our communities with a twoclassroom building donation in Loon, Bohol and scholarships to Leyte students by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), launch of the 2017 Infoteach Outreach Program that promotes digital literacy by PLDT Community Relations, and the first mentor matching for start-ups through the QBO Innovation Hub which is a partnership between the Ideaspace Foundation and the Department of Trade and Industry. Before the month of January ended, PLDT together with our mobile unit Smart and TV5 forged a partnership with Solar Entertainment to bring the 2016 Miss Universe experience closer to a greater number of Filipinos. Amid this flurry of worthwhile activities, PLDT’s future truly looks beautiful in this Year of the Fire Rooster. We just hope that it’s not the annus mirabilis that English poet John Dryden described in his 1,216-line verse of the same title. In his poem, he recounted the events of year 1666 when England actually suffered tremendously from its war with the Dutch and the Great Fire of London. Let our annus mirabilis reflect the spirit in Dryden’s poem that after all the hardships, one can overcome and emerge stronger. And this is the true miracle!

We recently introduced FamZone, a security device from Australia’s top provider to help parents protect their children from cyber threats. At the same time, we have been trying to improve our fixed line services

Delivering Awesome Customer Service on social media...

Compiled by Ederic P. Eder

from the mailbag...

Talon

Subscriber Aneth Lim lauded Cavite field service engineer Normel B. Talon for going beyond and above in helping her family get a phone and internet line for their vacation home in Tagaytay City. Normel patiently coordinated with the property engineer and the developer’s main office until the townhouse got wired. “It took months of petition, calls and email flurries — and Normel stayed on top of the situation,” Lim said. He also managed to convince Lim — who was referred by FINTQ President & CEO Lito Villanueva and PLDT and Smart Network Services SVP Mar Tamayo to switch to PLDT for her home accounts and for her husband to do the same for his office. “In December, we were finally with a phone and internet in Tagaytay, and now we have PLDT deeply woven in the fabric of our lives — thanks to Lito, Mar, and of course, Normel,” she said. CC:

NEWS Devotees from around the world attend the various celebrations of the apostolic congress.

4th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy

PLDT, Smart link PH devotees PLDT and Smart recently provided the internet connectivity for the 4th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy (WACoM4) held for the first time in the country with more than 4,000 delegates and devotees who flew in from around the world. The four-day apostolic congress was held in different locations for each day of the event. At every stop, a mass celebration and talks on the event’s message on “Communion in Mercy; Mission for Mercy” were broadcasted by the various organizations from different countries. Day 1 of WACoM4 was celebrated in historical Manila Cathedral where Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle led the homily of the celebration. The following celebrations were then held at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion, Padre Pio National Shrine in Sto Tomas, Batangas, the Divine Mercy National Shrine in Marilao, Bulacan, and culminated with a high mass at Las Casas Filipinas Azucar in Bagac, Bataan.

The World Apostolic Congress on Mercy is organized every three years, the fourth recently held here in the Philippines.

Through PLDT and Smart services, connectivity in all the locations was provided to support the communications needs of the different media press centers and venues of the global apostolic event, as well as connectivity for the local news partner organizations including Radio Veritas, TV Maria, and Catholic Media Network.

WACOM4 aims to propagate the culture of mercy in the Church and in the world. As the bastion of Christianity in Asia and the world’s third-largest Catholic population, the Philippines is presenting this international congress as a “Pilgrimage of Mercy” that will bring delegates to different holy places each day. This congress offers an opportunity for all to be oriented to the Filipinos’ lived faith in Jesus, the Divine Mercy Incarnate.

“Through the rich connectivity, Filipinos all over the country and religious devotees around the world can share in the experience of the congress. We are honored to be the digital partner to help them make that happen,” said PLDT and Smart spokesperson Ramon R. Isberto.

WACOM was first held at the Vatican in Rome, Italy on April 2-6, 2008. Led by its President, Christoph Cardinal Schonborn, O.P., where more than 4,000 delegates gathered from all over the world reflecting on the Theme: “Be Witnesses of Mercy”. Adrian T. Elumba

PLDT wins top honors at the MEF Excellence Awards 2016

PLDT has been a consistent awardee in the MEF Awards being recognized in delivering world-class Ethernet services to customers. In photo: PLDT FVP and Head of Enterprise Jovy Hernandez and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer Eric Alberto proudly hold the two trophies from the MEF Awards.

PLDT has distinguished itself anew as the only Philippine enterprise organization honored at the recent MEF (Metro Ethernet Forum) Excellence Awards 2016. For the third consecutive year, PLDT was awarded “Retail Service Provider of the Year - Asia Pacific” for its unmatched CE 2.0-certified service portfolio. PLDT delivers its Ethernet services through an unparalleled domestic network comprising 115,000 cable kilometers that provide nationwide coverage. PLDT’s Retail Service is CE 2.0 Ethernet Access-certified, with PLDT being the first to achieve CE 2.0 certification for all eight services – Metro e-Line (point-to-point), Metro e-Wide Area Network or WAN (any-to-any), Metro e-Tree (rootedmultipoint), and Metro e-Access (interconnection) – both in port and VLAN-based implementation. It offers speeds of up to 10 Gigabits per second (10 Gbps) with support for Quality of Service (QoS). At the core, the PLDT Group operates a highly resilient network, deployed strategically across points nationwide. It has also been actively launching Ethernet partnerships with overseas carriers, further expanding its carrier Ethernet capability internationally. Supporting this entire network are PLDT’s 66

MEF Carrier Ethernet Certified Professionals (CECPs) — the most in the country. Dedication to constant innovation and improvement garnered PLDT the “Service Innovation of the Year Asia Pacific” award, highlighting the organization’s numerous milestones, including obtaining Carrier Ethernet 2.0 certification for its CE services; the introduction of new access devices; higher service level availability variants; and the online network performance monitoring tool for its CE clients.

finalist for Government, Sports and Entertainment, and Media. PLDT Network Engineer for Products and Services Network and Platform Solutions Marjory Sy was nominated with “Industry Professional of the Year” award for the second consecutive time. In 2015, Sy was named “MEF Carrier Ethernet Certified Professional (CECP) of the Year” for her leadership in the global expansion of CE and for her contributions to the Carrier Ethernet Technical Community.

“We in the PLDT Group are once again proud to be the only Philippine company participating in the prestigious MEF Excellence Awards,” remarked FVP and Head of PLDT and Smart Enterprise Group Jovy Hernandez. “We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation through providing future-forward networking solutions for our valued enterprise partners.”

“The MEF Excellence Awards underscores our efforts in providing global quality services for our enterprise clients. In continuously upgrading our infrastructure and services, we fully empower our customers, as well as provide the necessary ICT platforms and solutions which shall enable such enterprises to become ever more efficient and competitive,” noted PLDT/Smart Chief Revenue Officer and ePLDT President and CEO Eric R. Alberto.

The telco was included among the top finalists for several awards under the Service Provider Awards category, including “Innovative Service of the Year and Wholesale Service Provider - Asia Pacific.” Under the Enterprise Application Awards category, the firm was a

The yearly MEF Awards recognizes the best services and technology, professional excellence, leadership, and innovation in the global Carrier Ethernet (CE) community. CC:

Pujada Bay, Davao Oriental

Photo by JuanPiso

Telco services in Davao Oriental improved PLDT has set up interconnection links with another telco operator in Davao Oriental, the easternmost province in Mindanao’s bustling Davao region, allowing free local calls between subscribers of the two service providers. According to PLDT VP and Head of International Network and Carrier Business Genaro Sanchez: “The interconnection agreement covers PLDT and Globelines subscribers in the towns of Baganga, Boston, Caraga, Cateel, Gov. Generoso, Lupon, San Isidro, Tarragona, and Mati City.” “PLDT subscribers in Davao Oriental can now call their friends, family members, loved ones and business associates – regardless of their telco connection – toll-free anytime,” Sanchez said. Davao Oriental is home to the pristine Pujada Bay, a much soughtafter tourist destination where exotic flora and fauna thrive. Also known as the “Coconut capital of the Philippines,” this Davao province is the top producer of coconut and copra in the country.

The PLDT-Philcom office in Davao Oriental will cover and cater the subscribers’ telecommunication requirements in the local integrated areas. “PLDT Philcom, like most PLDT offices all over the country, is implementing an expansion program using fiber to the home (FTTH) and the latest wireless technology. Areas

The IP backbone runs on PLDT’s Domestic Fiber Optic Network (DFON), the most extensive fiber optics network in the country which is now over 140,000 kilometers long. It facilitates the direct transmission of the internet data to our gateway, providing fast and reliable internet experience to our subscribers.

in Davao Oriental will be covered by these expansion programs in the months to come and all these will be integrated to PLDT’s IP backbone network”, said PLDT-Philcom General Manager Augustus Caesar Cotelo. “The IP backbone runs on PLDT’s Domestic Fiber Optic Network (DFON), the most extensive fiber optics network in the country which is now over 140,000 kilometers long. It facilitates the direct transmission of the internet data to our gateway, providing fast and reliable internet experience to our subscribers,” Cotelo added. Aside from Davao Oriental, PLDTPhilcom also serves the provinces of Compostela Valley, Agusan, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and parts of Davao del Norte. Last year, PLDT interconnected with Globelines in the provinces of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Aklan and Bukidnon. Olive O. Barrozo

Standing, 1st row, 5th and 6th from left: MVP and President Rodrigo Duterte are joined by the TOYM Foundation directors and JCI members and committee as well as the board of judges. Also in photo are, 1st row, from left: Senator JV Ejercito, PLDT Group Controller Chaye CabalRevilla, 2016 National Chairman, TOYM Program Christopher Camba, Member of the Board of Judges Gloria Tan Climaco, TOYM Foundation President BienvenidoTantoco III, and TOYM Foundation Vice President Rafael Dizon III.

2016 TOYM Awards

Recognizing positive changes with 11 honorees

Recognizing the outstanding achievement of the nation’s young active citizens, the 2016 TOYM (The Outstanding Young Men and Women) Awards recently honored 11 men and women – individuals who have greatly impacted the lives of people, continuously creating positive changes in the nation.

social sciences, entrepreneurship, law, science, arts, music, and theater.

Held in Malacañang Palace, this year’s TOYM Awards was a gathering of remarkable figures in various fields, who continue to make a difference in the country. With the theme “Transforming Communities, Creating Positive CHANGE,” the awardees have successfully inspired today’s youth as to how change can truly come from vast opportunities and in many different forms and in various fields of education,

Propelling development forward PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, who also chairs the TOYM Foundation, congratulated the 2016 TOYM Honorees for their extraordinary achievements. “Through their work, these individuals are uplifting the lives of their fellow Filipinos and helping propel the country’s development forward. By recognizing their contributions, TOYM

This year’s awards was aimed at highlighting the achievements of the honorees as leaders who have demonstrated vigor and enterprise in tackling the problems and issues of society through sustainable solutions.

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, who also chairs the TOYM Foundation, congratulates the 11 honorees for their outstanding achievements.

is inspiring others to follow their example,” Pangilinan said. The 2016 TOYM honorees were: Atty. Carmela Andal-Castro for her work in law (child protection); Clarisse Delgado, who is the co-founder and CEO of Teach for the Philippines; Ryan Guinaran, who pioneers as the first-time awardee for his efforts in IP Advocacy; Randy Halasan, a teacher in Pegalongan Elementary School – the farthest school serving the Matigsalog Tribe in Davao City; Richard Heydarian, an academic, opinion columnist and mass media pundit as well as widely consulted policy adviser; and Richard Muallil for his work in marine science; Ronivin Pagtakhan, co-founder of LoveYourself – one of the leading organizations in HIV awareness; Geraldine Racaza, a world-class doctor, making waves in the field of medicine; Saturnino Tiamson, a musician based in Hong Kong, who has received outstanding recognition for his work; Jhett Tolentino, a five-time Tony Award nominee and three-time Tony awardee; and Earl Martin Valencia, who is currently the Board Advisor for the Science and Technology Advisory Council (to the Philippines) in New York and the Founding Advisor to QBO, the National Innovation Center of the Philippines. Katrina A. Mallari

FAM ZONE Partnership

PLDT Home Fibr revolutionizes home security

Demand for security professionals seen in the public sector ePLDT has identified that organizations are faced with global security expertise shortage on top of other existing internal challenges such as budget priorities and compliance concerns. “Finding, hiring and retaining top security administrators can be difficult and yet is strategically-critical, especially now that the public sector is accelerating its own digital transformation. At ePLDT, we offer the right solutions and the right people, backed with globally-benchmarked security practices, that enable us to manage security policies and systems & help organizations comply to regulatory policies and standards,” said Nerissa Ramos, Group Chief Operating Officer of ePLDT, Inc.

PLDT has partnered with Australia’s top parental control device FAM ZONE to help parents protect their children from cyber threats while using the internet. With the FAM ZONE device, Filipino families can enjoy the benefits of a digitally connected SmartHome while promoting a safe internet experience for the entire family. “PLDT has been committed to answer its subscribers’ everchanging needs by providing them with the strongest connections and most innovative technology solutions,” PLDT FVP and Head of HOME Operations Oscar Reyes Jr. said. “This partnership sets a new bar in multimedia and digital services for Filipino families. Parents used to hide their internet modems at home just to control their children’s online activities. Now with FAM ZONE, parents can be certain that their children are safe and secured online.” Among its many features: FAM ZONE has a website filtering feature so parents can restrict access to inappropriate sites and content. They can also set alerts and reporting functions to monitor

their kids’ online activities and identify pre-approved sites that their kids can visit. FAM ZONE also has a time management feature that allows parents to assign usage schedules for their kids: study time, play time, sleep time, and so on.

Aside from ePLDT’s certified security professionals, the IT enabler also offers Managed Security solutions that help organizations avoid large initial investment through a more flexible operational expenditure model and protect endpoints whether in dedicated or hybrid environments.

Parents can also download the FAM ZONE app to manage the mobile devices and internet usage of their children when they are outside of home.

ePLDT employs a risk-based methodology (Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover) adopted from the cybersecurity framework recommended by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a globally-recognized standards body that is an agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce. This framework provides a high-level strategic view of an organization’s management of cybersecurity risk.

FAM ZONE works best when powered by the most powerful broadband connection from PLDT Home Fibr, which delivers speeds of up to 1 Gbps and with plans now as low as P1,699 per month. Fibr provides the widest fiber coverage in the country, now passing over 2.5 million homes. FAM ZONE is the latest offering from PLDT Home Fibr that strengthens the suite of security devices and services which address the need for parents to have peace of mind especially when they have to be away from their children. FAM ZONE is an ideal complement to the home monitoring system FAM CAM and the multi-functional kiddie gadget Smart Watch.CC:

“ePLDT’s security engineers received international certifications on various security hardware and best practices,” Ramos said. “Offloading IT and security maintenance upgrades to our pool of experts will go a long way in ensuring that the government is secured as it goes through its digital journey.” To help businesses examine the status of their data security infrastructure, ePLDT is currently offering free Vulnerability Assessment (VA) which identifies security gaps and infections within the organization thereby helping these organizations address loopholes and strengthen their defenses. CC:

Just some of the 530 scholars Students smile as they undertake their assessment on Food and Beverage Services.

Students happily display their PDRF giveaways

Empowering the youth

PDRF, ETW, PBSP grant scholarship to Leyte students Empowering the supplies with leadership and values in Information and Communications youth by providing trainings. Technology award. educational opportunities, Several scholars were cited One hundred thirty-six scholars the Philippine at their schools’ respective were given a Career Exposure and Disaster Recognition Day for the first Development training through senior high school Resilience quarter of SY 2016-2017 last TESDA. Thirty-eight passed the scholars from Leyte October 19, 2016. At San Foundation NC II assessment on Food and (PDRF) and Jose National HS, ten scholars Beverage Services, and were Embracing the received honors for getting an absorbed by the Leyte Park Hotel World (ETW), average grade of 90% and above; as part-time staff. through the Philippine four received Subject Proficiency Business for Social Progress Awards; and six received Skills PDRF President Butch Meily (PBSP), is supporting 530 senior Proficiency Awards. For underscores the importance of high school students in Leyte by Palo National HS, 21 shaping today’s youth. “PDRF responding to their educational scholars received the and ETW want to create needs through the scholarship Best in Accountancy educational opportunities for program for the senior high school and Business our young people to free students being implemented in a Management scholars given them to be the best they disaster hit area. award, five received can be,” said Meily. Liza TESDA career Best in Electrical R. Agullo, PDRF Recovery exposure training Each student will be receiving Installation and Team transportation and project Maintenance awards, allowance, uniforms, bags, and and seven received Best

530

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PLDT kickstarts 2017 Infoteach Outreach program

PLDT Community Relations Head/Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario discusses the role of Infoteach in propagating digital literacy.

Propagating digital literacy among the youth, PLDT, in partnership with the UP Open University (UPOU) kickstarts the PLDT Infoteach Outreach program through the Training of Master Trainers in the UPOU headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. The Training of Master Trainers is the first part of the teacher’s training in which two representatives from

the Department of Education (DepEd) Division are trained about the Module Content as well as strategic ways in teaching the content. The training course was conducted by the UPOU module writers, developers, and trainers.

Participants from Ilocos Norte are hard at work during the training.

During the Training of Master Trainers, there were 10 participating DepEd Schools Division including Cainta and Rizal City; Cavite City; Santiago City, Isabela; Laoag City; Cities of Sarrat, Paoay, Curimao, and Bangui in Ilocos Norte; Ternate and Tagaytay City; Carmen, Cebu; Mandaue City; Cagayan de Oro City; and Davao City.

A participant talks about their schools’ teaching methods.

Since its inception in 2004, the Infoteach Outreach Program has continuously been evolving. The current training module consists of 21st century skills including effective communication skills, social media for education and

responsible citizenship, media literacy, global citizenship (including cybercrime law, computer ethics, and social responsibility), and Green IT. “PLDT continuously encourages advanced learning as we take great leaps towards the digital pivot. By training coordinators and teachers to become more adept in imparting digital literacy, we create valuable growth in building the best quality education we can provide to the youth,” PLDT Community Relations Head and Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario said. Katrina A. Mallari

Snapshots

PSF receives P1M donation from UBS for remote schools PDRF turns over two-classroom building in Loon, Bohol The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), through the generosity of Department of Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and the commitment of project partners namely Energy Development Corporation (EDC) and Lockton Insurance Philippines, turned over a one-story two-classroom building for around 700 students of the Sacred Heart Academy in Loon, Bohol. The students of Sacred Heart Loon – a school which was destroyed by the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol in October 15, 2013 – will now have their new facilities to pursue their education and reach their dreams. Seen in photo is the one-story two-classroom building. Liza R. Agullo, PDRF Recovery Team

The PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) recently received a P1-million from UBS Investments Philippines to bring School-in-a-Bag units to 10 public schools without access to electricity and digital tools that could enhance learning. Created by Smart the School-in-a-Bag is a backpack containing a solar panel and battery, LED TV, a laptop and tablet for the teacher, five tablets for students, lapel mic, hard drive, and pocket Wi-Fi with starter load. The donation package also includes teachers’ training on a 21st century teaching pedagogy, K+12 content, learning activity sheets, and a learning management system. Shown here during the turnover rites are PLDT and Smart Chairman, President, and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan, center, and UBS Philippines chairman and president Lauro C. Baja III, 2nd from right. They are flanked by PLDT and Smart public affairs head Mon Isberto, PLDT-Smart Foundation president Esther Santos, and UBS Philippines compliance officer Nina Feren Aguilar, from left. Cyril L. Bonavente, Smart Public Affairs

EmpDev extends teambuilding expertise to PLDT Alpha’s corporate client

Beyond the walls of the corporate academe, EmpDev continuous to enlarge its radius of influence with the conduct of a teambuilding intervention for Alpha’s prized corporate client, Zaffire Distributors, Inc., a diagnostic company involved in the importation and distribution of Vitro Diagnostic equipment, reagents and kits. Its strategic partners include St. Luke’s Medical Center, The Medical City, Asian Hospital and the Makati Medical Center,. This engagement coincides with the celebration of 25 successful years of being the leading provider in healthcare with best quality and innovative products that Filipino customers truly deserve. Shown in photo are, from left: EmpDev Training Officers Kristyl Palma, Dome Gonzaga, Relationship Management Executive Luis Asistio III, EmpDev AVP Nonong Noriega, Lead Training Officer Lydia dela Merced and Training Officer Patt Dizon in the thick of jubilation during a rousing experiential drill.

FEATURE

sm city manila

Shown at the new PLDT SSC SM Manila ribbon cutting ceremony are, from left, PLDT Business Development Sr Analyst May Carvajal, Business Development Head Louella Aquino, Home Customer Care and Sales and Service Center VP Paolo Lopez, Retail Strategy and Development Office VP Nick David, Home Sales and Service Center Management Head Anna Fernando, and Home SSC Mgt Team Head Rogel Bagnas.

New PLDT SSCs set up in Manila and Laguna

PLDT SSC SM Manila welcomes customers and visitors.

Home Customer Care and Sales and Service Center VP Paolo Lopez underscores the importance of excellent customer experience.

wo more flagship-inspired stores were inaugurated by PLDT recently to enable more people in the country to experience the latest multimedia products and services.

those in Biñan, Laguna. With these new SSCs, we give them more opportunities to transact business with PLDT while they experience the latest digital products and services right at the SSC,” said PLDT Business Development Head Louella Aquino.

Awaiting visitors and shoppers at SM Manila is the brand new PLDT Sales and Service Center (SSC) with its streamlined interior and cozy atmosphere that gives customers the chance to apply for fixed and digital services, pay bills, request for repairs, and other transactions as they take a respite from hectic shopping, walking around, and other activities inside the mall.

Like the other flagship-inspired SSCs previously set up in various locations in the country, these new ones in Manila and Biñan both contain a 50” LED TV designed to entertain visitors and their families. They also include the upgraded Infotouch, a user-friendly 24” HD-quality digital device that enables subscribers to inquire about their bills and request for repairs, among others.

PLDT has also established the first SSC in the City of Biñan in Laguna at the ground floor of the Pavilion Mall. “We are glad to offer PLDT’s products and services to customers in Manila as well as

“These new SSCs in Manila and Biñan are part of our continuing efforts to provide the best products and services to more people all over the country,” said PLDT VP of HOME Customer Care & Sales and Service Center Paolo Lopez. “We are very pleased to offer the latest and most efficient products to our customers that would assist them in their daily lives as they pursue their respective work and leisure activities.” CC:

pavilion mall, biÑan The cozy interiors of the new PLDT SSC Biñan.

PLDT executives and guests offer a toast to celebrate the first PLDT SSC in the city of Biñan, Laguna.

The PLDT Home Business Development team with Head Louella Aquino and North Luzon Customer Service Operations District VP Gerry Castro, 5th and 2nd from right, respectively.

Homey yet modern interiors complement the retail concept of the brand new PLDT store in Cebu.

PLDT HOME launches new concept store in Cebu

P Home Operations Head Renren Reyes inspires employees to keep the momentum and continue bringing excellent customer experience.

LDT Home has recently unveiled its Concept Store at SM Seaside City, Cebu.

“After actively touring Cebu earlier this year to promote our diverse products and services, we are so excited to open a concept store for PLDT customers for the first time,” PLDT FVP and HOME Operations Head Renren Reyes said. “Much like our flagship stores in Metro Manila, Cebu residents will be able to experience our full suite of innovations in a modern and refreshing environment.” The new concept store features the latest in communication and technology and applies the pillars under PLDT’s Smart Home concept: entertainment, security, connectivity and convergence. Exciting digital elements help enrich the visitors’ overall experience such as the

A huge crowd gathers at SM Seaside Mountainview Wing during the inauguration of the new PLDT Concept Store to participate in promos, apply for PLDT Home plans, and listen to performances from Pops Fernandez (left photo), Donna Cruz, and other local talents.

PLDT VisMin Sales Head Alex Ang, event hosts Maria Gigante and Chesca Litton and 2016 Miss International Kylie Versoza discuss the new innovations from PLDT Home.

The PLDT Business Development team, executives, and guests offer a toast to PLDT’s first concept store in Cebu. They are, from left: Marr Valenzuela, Aleng Ang, Jhoycee Simbulan, Czar Lopez, Jonel Ladaban, Weng Aquino, Nick David, Anna Fernando, Paolo Lopez, Renren Reyes, Kylie Versoza, Maridel Manalang, and Marco Borlongan.

broadband visualizer, an easy-to-use tool that simulates broadband and data usage per plan, and the augmented reality, a massive display used to attract and engage people outside the store by showing enlarged and comical versions of themselves similar to the Snapchat app. Convenience and efficiency were also given much thought with the video chat option for customer service queries; experiential booths for visitors to try out PLDT Home Fibr, DSL and Ultera offerings first-hand; and interactive screens or giant simulations of tablets where they can watch videos, browse through Facebook, play games and check out the rest of PLDT Home’s robust digital portfolio.

To celebrate the milestone launch, PLDT has conducted a series of on-ground promos. Customers who visited the store from December 8 to 14, 2016 got the chance to win exciting prizes. “Our new high-tech concept store, coupled with our accommodating staff and engaging activities, is part of our continuous efforts to proactively and efficiently address the needs of our current and potential Cebu-based subscribers,” said Reyes. “With each store we establish in the country, we reinforce our commitment to provide nothing short of quality products and end-to-end services, embracing and benefiting Filipinos’ digital lifestyles.” CC:

Scoutedby CEO Jonathan Deforge pitches his start-up company to Navegar Private Equity Fund Senior Associate Ryan Chua, who is one of the mentors during the event.

Enabling Start-Up Communities

QBO Innovation Hub launches 1st mentor match-up by Katrina A. Mallari

reating a platform for the start-up community, QBO Innovation Hub, a joint initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry and Ideaspace Foundation, recently launched its first mentor match-up for aspiring start-up companies.

‘Speed dating’ Mentoring sessions were conducted via a ‘speed dating’ format, wherein each startup was given approximately 15 minutes of scheduled time with the mentor, before proceeding to another station. There were nine mentors and 16 startups in various stages of development that participated in the event.

Aiming to establish strong relations between innovators, investors, academic institutions, start-up mentors, funders, and enablers and with the unparalleled support from both public and private sectors, QBO, through its mentor match-up, relentlessly exerts a collaborative effort to bring the Philippines at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship. The QBO Mentor Match-up program is an opportunity for startup founders to sit down with CEOs and senior industry executives and experts. Ultimately, the program aims to create opportunities for mentors and mentees to connect, work together to address and solve problems, provide perspective and share relevant connections and help take the Philippine startup ventures to the next level.

Ideaspace Foundation and QBO Innovation Hub President Butch Meily underscored the importance of creating an avenue for start-up companies to truly thrive. “Our hope is that QBO will transform the Philippine startup ecosystem and create real success stories with new companies creating jobs and opportunity for our countrymen,” Meily said. “I believe the startups in the Philippines are on the brink of bursting out on the world stage and that’ll be due to programs such as IdeaSpace and Qbo.”

Ideaspace Foundation and QBO Innovation Hub President Butch Meily welcomes the mentors and participating start-up companies in the launching of the Mentor Match-up.

Imparting knowledge and inputs, the nine mentors have extensive leadership experience coming from a diverse background. The mentors include former Mediaquest Holdings, Cignal and TV5 President and CEO Noel Lorenzana, ICCP Ventures Director Gladys Enhaynes, PwC Philippines Assurance Partner Pocholo Domondon, Launchgarage COO and Plug and Play Technology Center USA VP and Founder Jojo Flores, PSE Marketing Services Department

Head Joey Villar, Navegar Private Equity Fund Senior Associate Ryan Chua, Navegar Private Equity Fund Senior Associate Iñigo Geronilla, Sindicatum Sustainable Resources Group Chief Technology Officer and TipTop Information Technology Founder and IT Director Bobby Jimenez, and Connected Women, ExecutiveLifestyle. SG, and The Athena Network Singapore and APAC Founder and Managing Director Gina Romero. Sparking innovation With particular aims in mind, the first batch of start-up companies that participated in the mentor match-up program continue to spark innovation in the various fields of tourism, education, job opportunities, employee engagement, transportation, and customer experience. iTrabaho, a job platform created for the masses, is a start-up that was established back in 2011 where smartphones were not as prevalent. iTrabaho Founder John Kim felt the need to integrate SMS to give

Launch Garage COO and VP and Founder of Plug and Play Technology Center USA provides insights to two participants from the Mentor Match-up.

immediacy in connecting with jobseekers. “We are the only SMS and Facebook enabled job site. We had 3 years of battle testing the product to give us an edge. We are highly focused on user experience and ease of use,” Kim said. Participating in QBO’s Mentor Match-up, Kim underscored the importance of networking in growing a business, particularly through the active support from

Another participant discusses her start-up business to former Mediaquest Holdings, Cignal and TV5 President and CEO Noel Lorenzana.

both the government and private sector. “I’m glad to see the government stepping up and provide resources for entrepreneurs to grow their ideas and provide mentorship from accomplished entrepreneurs to share their struggles and experience,” Kim said. The power of the internet “I have always believed in the power of education. Learning affects the lives of people and is at the heart of personal development,” said Scoutedby Founder and CEO Jonathan Deforge. This is the foundation that ultimately drives the start-up company to provide opportunities to positively impact education and help it transition to the need of the 21st century. Scoutedby aims to simplify the access to education. By appropriately matching the applicants to the right programs, Scoutedby hopes to positively impact the value of education. Initially launched as an MBA platform, Scoutedby empowers every individual, who dreams to pursue their further studies, to have a more flexible approach in education. “We believe in changing how we access education. The power of Scoutedby is to make those services easily accessible by leveraging the power of the internet. Scoutedby is (and will always be) free for individuals,” Deforge said. CC:

QBO Innovation Hub team, mentors, and start-up owners gather together for a group photo.

COVER STORY

#Better Tomorrow

Exciting Tech Trends and Innovations for 2017 By Olive O. Barrozo

017 is a vibrant year that started well. Significant trends, from technology to marketing reveal remarkable innovations that can improve our lives, and consequently lead us to a better tomorrow. Add a splash of the refreshing green that will soon dominate our vision – greenery being the color of the year – things can only be cool and definitely hopeful. Global Tech Trends Forbes contributor Jayson DeMers named seven tech trends in 2017 (http://www.forbes.com/sites/ jaysondemers/2016/11/16/7-technology-trends-that-

will-dominate-2017/). These include the Revolution of the Internet-of-Things which connects the smart home to every imaginable technology, resulting in a seamless user experience. “Now that bigger companies (like Google, Amazon, and Apple) already well-versed in uniform user experiences are getting involved, I expect we’ll see some major advancements on this front,” DeMers wrote. He also mentioned the subsequent take-off of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), as well as Machine Learning. “Throughout 2017, I expect to see machine learning updates emerge across the board, entering almost any type of consumer application you can think of,

“We have thousands of apps available to us to get rides, food deliveries, and even a place to stay for the night, but soon we’ll see this evolve into even stranger territory.”

from offering better recommended products based on prior purchase history to gradually improving the user experience of an analytics app.” The list likewise included Automation of previously human-exclusive tasks; Humanized Big Data, “seeking more empathetic and qualitative bits of data and projecting it in a more visualized, accessible way;” Physical-Digital Integrations; and Everything OnDemand, “we have thousands of apps available to us to get rides, food deliveries, and even a place to stay for the night, but soon we’ll see this evolve into even stranger territory.”

Asian Innovations Meanwhile, Trendwatching.com cited five Asian trends that could help us create innovations – new products, services, campaigns, and business models – that customers will love. These include the following:

Google Home to power your smart home.

Butt-in – these are the brands that butt-in on social conversations and current events, and respond with real action, in real-time. “Consumers desensitized to brands’ online clutter will appreciate those that complement PLDT lia sum eatemquat their online responsiveness with offline initiatives… The way to better engage consumers in 2017 isn’t aligent apis eiciis simendes by reaching more people online or replying faster to voluptur san corporate social customer complaints on Facebook. Cut through the clutter and set your brand apart by showing genuine responsibility. online awareness through offline responses.” Borders Breached – “taking baby steps towards creating a world of truly global citizens, initially by fostering real-world connections across national and cultural borders.” Capacity Capture – driven by the sharing economy, this innovation maximizes the benefit consumers get from a company’s product offerings by unlocking new sources of value in the existing products, services, or campaign collaterals.

Amazon Prime Air delivery via drone.

Stalk your Stuff – this trend is about involving consumers, such as giving them access to information and identifying what consumers would want to access.

This time ordering an Uber means getting food to you via Uber Eats.

Legal Life Hacks – consumers will embrace brands that give them legal alternatives to the informal hacks and loopholes they have been exploiting. They will appreciate initiatives that let them have the efficiency and convenience they get from hacking the system in legal ways.

#Better Tomorrow Taking inspiration from these new trends and innovations, it is always helpful to be bright, enthusiastic, and vital at the beginning of every year and the subsequent days and months. With most things getting accomplished with a click of a finger nowadays, difficulties shouldn’t occupy our minds. We are choosing to be happy today and looking forward to a better tomorrow. CC:

FEATURE

Benefactors pose with a sari-sari store, one of the beneficiaries from the livelihood project.

Supporting Dreams, Bettering Lives

USAID, PDRF launch livelihood programs through BREACH Project By Liza R. Agullo, PDRF Recovery Team

ontinuing its advocacy of bettering the lives of the people, the USAID BREACH Project, implemented in partnership with PDRF, launched several livelihood activities during the last quarter of 2016.

of classes for Housekeeping, Electrical Installation and Maintenance, and Automotive Repair.

First on its agenda was the enrollment of select beneficiaries in vocational-technical skills training offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Leyte and by its partner-institution, the Asian Development Foundation in Tacloban City. Five participants finished their driving course, passed the assessment test, and are awaiting their NC II certificates from TESDA. They will be part of the transport association that the project will form to help operate and manage the 12 multi-cab units to be procured in January 2017.

Supporting dreams Supporting dreams and making bright ideas shine, the Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), through a sub-grant from BREACH, disbursed livelihood grants to the first batch of beneficiaries who were oriented and given financial literacy training to assist them in developing their individual â&#x20AC;&#x153;business plansâ&#x20AC;?. With an initial tranche of P3,000 per beneficiary, the recipients are expected to utilize the funds to start up a new or revive a lost livelihood activity. After proving that they can manage the enterprise well, NWTF will release the second tranche of the grant in the amount of P4,000 each.

Another three participants concluded their bread and pastry production course and have likewise successfully passed the assessment test, making them eligible to receive NC II certificates. Still finishing their Shielded Metal Arc Welding course are two participants, while another batch of participants are awaiting the opening

Support for these training courses was provided by an anonymous individual donor.

A livelihood beneficiary poses with her check for the first grant.

NWTF will also help organize the transportation association that will operate the 12 multi-cabs to be procured in early 2017. Suy Sing Commercial Corporation, another PDRF partner for the BREACH project, donated Php380,000 worth of sari-sari store inventory to thirty-eight sari-sari store owners who were identified and validated by the BREACH project team. Suy Sing also trained the store owners on how to operate a sari-sari store. Each store was also provided with a store sign to make the enterprise more visible in the community. CC: Participants learn basic skills at the Foundation College in Tacloban City.

Festival Sinulog

2017

Connecting people in

celebration of faith T

by Katrina A. Mallari

here’s an overwhelmingly sense of camaraderie that is seen in the entire duration of the Sinulog Festival - an annual celebration prepared and offered by Cebu to honor Senyor Santo Niño (Child Jesus). It is in the Cebuanos relentless effort to bring life to such a grand festivity that makes Sinulog one of the most celebrated occasions throughout the year. PLDT, through its Community Relations (ComRel) Division, supports the annual Sinulog Festival - a week-long celebration which starts on the 7th of January. As the festival marks its 37th year, PLDT makes its presence felt throughout the entire festivity as one of its major sponsors - from attending one of the festival’s main events to the Company’s marketing efforts.

PLDT ComRel Head/Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario awards the P5,000 special cash prize to Miss PLDT Ivy Tanquezon Tapic of Asturias, Cebu

received a trolley bag sponsored by PLDT ComRel. Joining Alforque and Asturias in the Top Five were Cristal Jade Lacid of Talisay City, second runner-up; Marilee Cortes from Lanao Del Norte, third runner-up; and Lara Therese Delica of Tuburan Town, fourth runner-up.

During its annual Miss Sinulog Festival Queen pageant, PLDT ComRel Head/Consultant Evelyn M. Del Rosario has been chosen as one the board of judges. PLDT ComRel gave away P5,000 special cash prize to Sinulog Festival 1st runner-up Ivy Tanquezon Tapic of Asturias, Cebu for being chosen as this year’s Miss PLDT. Her prizes included a one-year PLDT HOME Fibr subscription, and a PLDT PLDT Home enlivens the festivity by trolley bag.

Del Rosario underscores the importance of Sinulog in the context of the Filipino culture. “Sinulog has always been one of the favorite festivals of the Filipino people. It not only highlights the beauty of our culture, but it also emphasizes the values we have instilled upon us as a nation - camaraderie, a strong faith, and an optimistic spirit,” Del Rosario said.

“PLDT has always supported the Sinulog Festival. It constantly aims to enrich connections as the festival brings together people from all walks of life,” Del Rosario added.

setting up booths throughout the event.

Hailing from Carcar City, Marla Pino Alforque was named as Miss Sinulog Festival Queen 2017. She

The Company likewise enlivened the country’s most anticipated festival with booths scattered all over Cebu City offering the latest PLDT HOME digital products and services that regaled scores of Sinulog devotees. Decorating the Sto. Niño in front of the PLDT Office in Cebu Jones, PLDT ComRel has truly made the festivity an unforgettable one. The PLDT Office in Cebu Jones also featured a PLDT HOME set-up, entertaining visitors who experienced the remarkable features of PLDT’s exciting new products and services. Sinulog revelers were also treated to face painting sessions and snacks for free. With Del Rosario, center, are VisMin Home Sales Head and Cebu CSOZ OIC Alex Ang, 3rd from left, Visayas Home Sales Coordinator Edwin Rubi, 3rd from right, Visayas Fixed Access Trns Oprns Coordinator Rito Ray Sales, 8th from left and former PLDT Head for Logistics Caesar Sing.

PLDT Home also provided WiFi connectivity at the Media Center of the Sports center during the event. CC:

Interactive role plays that demonstrate the high impact practice of our corporate values

w e n e h t g n i l l i t s n I

e r u t l u c y n a p m Co pDev Palma, Em by Kristyl

016 was a pivotal year for PLDT Smart. The unveiling of our new logo, Vision-Mission, and Values marked yet another milestone for the Company. Kick-starting a cultural overhaul was no easy feat because this meant letting go of what we’re used to, to welcome a new set of ideals in the hopes of aligning everyone with the new strategic thrusts and objectives. They say that the reason why people resist change is because they tend to focus on what they have to give up, instead of what they have to give. Change is difficult, and it can be painful along the way, but nothing is even more dangerous than staying stuck and complacent as you watch the rest of the world pass you by. To help usher in everyone to the “New Day” campaign, the VMV Power Encounter Cascade, spearheaded by Mr. Nonong Noriega was launched. It is a companywide caravan that evangelizes our new Vision-Mission and Values through an eye-opening workshop that involves various experiential exercises depicting each of the core values for the employees to fully internalize its meaning and significance. The first wave of the VMV Power Encounter Cascade happened in August with teams GMM FxATop,

Regional FxATop and Smart EBG, and here’s what they have to say… “Sa PLDT ko nakuha ang lahat ng mayroon ako ngyon, sapat na ito para ibalik ko ang lahat ng pwede kong magawang serbisyo sa company. Patuloy na magtulungan sa abot ng makakaya.” -Joselito Policarpio, FxATop Regional “We in SLFxATOp FF4, MALASAKIT is an everyday habit. We never complain about extending our duties/shifts especially during trouble and restoration, even when we have to be away from our family. We are doing this for PLDT who takes care of us.” -Ireneo Elloso, FxATop Regional “Since walang business office in Camarines Sur (SSC) pag hindi na kaya ng mga agents ang mga irate customers who visit the old Digitel building at Naga City, I always offer to handle and assist pag may pagkakataon ako. Hindi ako tumitigil hanggang hindi kalmado ang customer at makauwi siya na PLDT pa din ang gusto niya.” -Jose Leonardo Rubio, FxATop Regional “Malasakit is already in the blood of the North GMMFXATOp team. Most are working beyond their shift even without OT pay just to make sure a trouble is attended well. Many are improvising with their own tools

Luzon Fixed Access leaders at the forefront of a crisis resolution challenge exercise

Smart Enterprise Group – motivation overload!

in order to make our work easier. This value is alive at North GMMFXATOP!” -Alberto M. Estrella,GMMFxATop “I appreciate how PLDT takes good care of its people and now that we are in the middle if a war against our competitor, one thing is sure, that I’ll do my best to help PLDT win this battle. This is my battle, my Family’s battle, our battle. We will win!” -Oden Buen, GMMFxATop “The Enterprise Business Group makes sure that we deliver unparalleled support to our Alpha Sales team to achieve positive customer experience. We are encouraged in EBG tp help each other and aim for the best.” -Ryan Munoz, Smart EBG “No matter how heavy the load may seem, if we work together as one, and we all do our best at the fastest we can, there is no reason why we can’t win.” Rowena Sison, Smart EBG There were a lot of realizations, and the workshop certainly reminded them of how much they love this company. It was quite evident that the experience ignited their fire and awakened their enthusiasm to embrace change and face whatever curve ball the competitor throws at them as ONE team.

The VMV Power Encounter Cascade evangelizes our new Vision-Mission and Values through an eye-opening workshop that involves various experiential exercises depicting each of the core values for the employees to fully internalize its meaning and significance.

Socrates once said, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy, not in fighting the old out, but on building the new.” It’s about time that we shed the old ways, turn a new leaf and rebuild because sometimes a radical change is exactly what we need CC:

T D L P 2016

NS PLDT LE b lu C Camera Cost n Valuatio MM ESFM G al & Glob Center

ME PLDT S io t Na n

Service n io Operat r e t n Ce

HMDBA

Finance

is Better than Perfect

f the six values, this has become the hardest to sell. Quality suggests that we operate with tight internal controls, and we should not tolerate sloppiness and inaccuracy in the way we do things.

But the age of automation also suggests swift results with the snap of a finger. We are in a race, and fastest one wins. We are committed to stay ahead of the game with speedy response to provisioning, restoration and maintenance of services to assure our customers that we have their best interests in mind and their satisfaction is our top priority. Meaningful manifestations that would attest to high impact practice of this value: :: Service requests are processed way above the norm for speedy response set by industry standards.

The

Competencies that enable the high impact practice of this value: :: Basic knowledge on processing of customer applications for service, complaints handling, restoration and maintenance concerns. :: Ability to refer customers and internal allies to the right parties to expedite intelligent resolve to a problem. :: Ability to prioritize and execute immediate action that will impact customer expectations.

Bandwagonner Nonong Noriega

:: A strong sense of urgency prevails in decision making and implementing action plans. Strong bias for action! :: Simplified processes that cut through red tape. :: No lingering in analysis paralysis at the expense of pressing concerns needing quick solutions. :: Expedited learning programs and opportunities to keep everyone abreast with digitial technology, consumer trends and organizational effectiveness.

:: Ability to grasp key elements during process checks, and craft quick solutions accordingly.

:: Ability to quickly translate knowledge to workable action plans to arrest pressing concerns during difficult service interfaces. The clock is ticking. The needs are immediate. Sense of timing is equated with sense of urgency. Perfection? We will still aim for that. In lightning speed. In an upbeat work culture that separates us from competition. With support systems that strengthen our stature as industry champs! CC: The regular town hall meetings to cascade operational concerns also becomes a venue to reinforce the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fast is better than perfectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; value for Visayas Technology Operations.

Marco Mañalac, Public Information Officer at Meralco and creative writer, talks about his writing experiences at the Access Life & Arts Thanksgiving and Christmas party for contributors. At left is Marco’s comic book

In the realm of writers and artists

PLDT Media Services Head Jay-Anne Encarnado thanks the writers and artists who regularly contribute their essays, poems, and artworks.

By Olive O. Barrozo

t takes a lot of patience and iron will to be a full-time writer. And then there’s passion. It is with interminable passion for the written word that the likes of Garcia Marquez, Tolstoy, Murakami, Vonnegut, and the Brontës, to name a few, were able to write their masterpieces and make their mark in the literary landscape. But there are other avenues to express your creativity and passion. Take comics. According to Marlon James, winner of the 2015 Man Booker Prize for Fiction, reading The X-Men comics was a life-changing experience for him. An X-Men and Batman whiz, the 46-year-old author related that he can tell if a writer is a huge fan of comic books by the breadth and style of his work.

Mary Grace Sze and Melvin Artugue share their poems during the poetry reading

For Marco Mañalac, Public Information Officer at Meralco who was one of the guest speakers at the thanksgiving cum Christmas party for Access Magazine’s Life & Arts contributors, writing for comics is an invigorating experience. He found this “other world” after losing his column in a newspaper. It was one of the extraordinary incidents when a magical door suddenly opened after the closing of a column. “Getting published was not easy, it entailed an incredible amount of hard work and persistence, but it was worth all the effort,” Marco recounted. So far, his team has already published two volumes of the comic book series Mythopolis whose loyal followers have been increasing in numbers.

Attendees of the Access Life & Arts Thanksgiving and Christmas party.

Social media expert Ederic Eder mentions several internet sites that publish literary works.

“Mythopolis was originally a short story that I felt needed to be shared. JV Tanjuatco and I collaborated to bring the world of Mythopolis to a new dimension. It is a gritty and fantastic place where living myths walk the streets, ungodly creatures rule the underworld, and humans are left to fend for themselves…” Marco wrote in an introduction to the series. Social media could be an enabler in reaching your audience. According to social media expert Ederic Eder, another speaker, up and coming writers and artists may post their works on internet sites like Our Own Voice @ http://www. oovrag.com/oovnew/about/, Tagaloglang. com @ http://tagaloglang.com/submission, which accepts literary works in Tagalog, and Tayo Literary Magazine (requires reading fee) @ http://www.tayoliterarymag.com/ submissions/. The literary event also featured poetry reading by Access Life & Arts writers Mary Grace Sze and Melvin Artugue. With words running in their veins, racing to be expressed, they formed them into insightful poems that made us rethink the meaning of Christmas. CC:

life arts january 2017

wake up call

Illustration by Mark Daryll Sambat, Media

A New Year – A New Life

By Ma. Leonora S. Malenab, Santiago SSC I woke up today with a grateful heart, A heart full of joy and full of love. A year has passed and I was able to surpassAll my fears, worries and trials!

Gift of a New Day

My life is but a gift from up above. A life that was given to me to be taken care of. All the glory and praise, I bring back to Him with all my heart, My life I offer and will entrust!

By Loy Verdadero Nardo Fixed Service Network Quality Assurance The dawn of a new day has just begun As I can feel the warm rays of the mighty sun It’s time to be grateful and pray to God For by His grace this morning we are alive!

I was blessed with so much love, With so much blessings I can never count. My family, my loved ones and all my friendsThey are my treasures till the end!

It’s another day to start some new beginnings Open our arms and welcome opportunities To better our lives and mend broken hearts And share the love and grace God has given us.

My life is a miracle I say, I never imagined, I will stay, Pains and struggles came my way But you see, God made a way!

A new day is born, a chance to make things right A time to turn around and traverse a better path Another unique day to conclude a page in our life A chance to leave a good note to glorify our God!

Thank you Lord! That’s all I can pray I offer my life to You every day!

All I Have

By Cherry W. Alaban, EPLM You are beautiful to behold as you sleep so quietly. As I look at your face, I can’t help but smile. Your innocence inspires me to get up every day and strive. My love for you will never ever fade my child. I know you’re too young to understand and appreciate. But I don’t want to miss a moment to show you how much I care. My unconditional love will watch you grow every single minute. Mommy will never be tired of providing you only the best. When I wake up each morning, I always thank God. Because He offered me such a wonderful and happy life. A family that had always been there during my ups and downs. A friend that I‘ve always relied on for every challenge that passed.

I am grateful for whatever I am and have, now. I am so blessed with everything that I need. All are enough reason for me to live and survive. The rest, I will lift up to God’s hands.

Waking Up to The Call By Amar Eligio

“According to a prior arrangement..” “Just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. In Love..” Ephesians 1:4

Let’s give the phrase a deeper meaning…

I’d like to emphasize the last two words before the end of Ephesians verse which says, “In Love..” If you want a date to be special, you make prior arrangements, such as calling and reserving seats in your date favorite restaurant, and even buying her gifts. That’s what God is telling us right now, that “We are Special,” “You are Special.” That He already made “prior arrangements” which is dying on the cross to pay for our sins. A great Love that is totally unexplainable. How can God put himself in the hands of his creation? It’s because of Love.

“A Telephone Call Made..” “For this reason it says, Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you.” Ephesians 5:14

Promise – “To wake the person called.” “So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you being rooted and grounded with love.” Ephesians 3:17

I very strongly believe that our life in this world is never an accident since every opportunity is a divine appointment with God. But because of darkness in this world, many are blinded, many are asleep and unaware of what lies ahead, just like a sheep gone astray without a shepherd. Paul knew this struggle of the newly converted Church of Ephesus and there is a need to strengthen their faith so that they will not go back to their old life. “Let Christ shine on you, because all things become visible when they are exposed to light.” All the darkness and burdens will light up when we adhere to the calling of God. As Apostle Peter says, “Cast all your cares in Him.” God is just waiting for you to answer His call.

God uses circumstances – good or bad - to “wake” us up and redirect our focus to His will in our lives. So how you deal with it is a matter of perspective. We have the power to choose our reactions over a situation. God never changes His Great plans for us, just like he says in one of my favorite life verses in John 10:10 “He has come to give us life, a life to the fullest.”

ake Up Call, according to Merriam-Webster via Google, is either “something (as a telephone call from a hotel employee to a guest) that serves to wake a sleeper;” or “something that serves to alert a person to a problem, danger, or need.”

You are called to have a grandiose life here on earth! What is the secret? Your faith! Have an unwavering faith in God! With faith, you can move a mountain! God never promised a perfect life, but His grace is sufficient to walk us through this journey and lead us to the purpose meant for us. CC:

Hoy Gising!

Ni Melvin Artugue, FMA Team Leader – ESAM Team C Mga taong ginagawang trash can ang kalsada, hoy gising! Mga dumudura sa daanan, hoy gising! Mga nakikipagpatintero sa sasakyan, hoy gising! Mga ‘di makapaghintay sa stop light, hoy gising! Mga sumisingit sa pila, lalo na ‘pag may kakilala, hoy gising! Mga sumisilip habang nag-wi-withdraw ang nasa unahan, hoy gising! Mga two-timer, hoy gising! Mga paasa at pa-fall, hoy gising! Mga manggagamit at plastic, hoy gising! Mga walang maisip na topic kundi kapitbahay nila, hoy gising! Mga iniwan na nga, humahabol pa, hoy gising! Mga feeling rich kid, puro hangin lang pala, hoy gising! Mga namimintas, manalamin ka! Hoy gising! Mga gumagamit ng gamit ng iba, hoy gising! Mga tumatawid sa ‘di tamang tawiran, hoy gising! Mga naghahanap ng tama, pero ‘di naman nag-eeffort para makatulong, hoy gising! Napakaraming dapat ayusin, ngunit sa sarili mag-uumpisa ang bawat pagbabago, hoy gising!

Sa Pagmulat

Ni Ma. Katherine P. Marajas, Student-Trainee, De La Salle Lipa Darating din yung araw na imumulat ko ang aking mga mata nang nandyan ka sa tabi ko Ngingiti ako at ngingiti ka sabay sabi ng magandang umaga Hahalikan ka kahit na mabaho ang iyong hininga at may nakadikit pa sa pisngi mo dulot ng pagtulo ng laway mo Hahawakan ko ang magulo mong buhok na para bang nakipagsabunutan ka at naubusan ng suklay sa mundong ito Tatanggalin ko ang muta sa mga mata mo kahit na mahirap itong kutkutin sanhi ng matagal na pagkakatuyo Hahaplusin ko ang pisngi mong pawang sinabuyan ng mantika sa sobrang kintab at dulas na tila bang pwede nang pagprituhan ng itlog Photography by Ma. Katherine P. Marajas Student-trainee, De La Salle Lipa

Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat, ikaw lang ang pinakamagandang nilalang sa aking paningin Ikaw lang ang nais kong makita at makasama, mula sa pagpikit hanggang sa pagmulat ng aking mga mata.

“Sa Pagsikat ng Araw” Ni Farah Coyoca, student-trainee, De La Salle Lipa

Oras at Panahon

Ni Marina Rowena I. Pumar, Regulatory Oras at panahon ay mahalaga sa atin Huwag pababayaan lalong huwag sasayangin Ito’y minsan lang sa buhay natin dumating Pakaingatan at tuunan ng pansin

Kayabangan sa sarili ay huwag pairalin Kababaang loob ang iparamdam natin Simpleng buhay ang siyang kamtin Sa mata ng Diyos pantay pantay ang kanyang pagtingin

Etong si Marissa sa murang edad ay ina na Naging mapusok ang kabataan niya Pinag-aaral ng magulang pero ano ang ginawa niya Pagboboypren ang inatupag bigong makamit ang diploma

Ngayong alam mo na gagawin mo pa ba? Ang tama sa mali ikaw na lang maghusga Pwede ka pang bumangon at may panahon pa Dahil habang tayo ay nabubuhay nananatiling may pag-asa.

Aakyat na sana sa entablado itong isang empleyado Bibigyan ng parangal para sa kanyang serbisyo Di alam ng nakararami may ginawang palpak sa trabaho Apektado ang rekord niya at agad suspendido Lubos ang paggalang ng mga kawani nitong opisina Respeto at pagmamahal ang ipinakita nila Sa kabila ng lahat ay may itinatago pala Lihim na pagnanakaw kaya nalugi ang kumpanya Ang sobrang bisyo di maganda sa katawan Alak at sigarilyo samahan pa ng pasugalan Lalong lalo na ang droga na siyang pinagtritripan Di nagtagal kinalagyan niya ay piitan Di dapat pakialaman ang buhay ng iba Huwag magtsismisan at siraan sila Ang asikasuhin ang sarili mong pamilya Upang maging tahimik ang buhay ng bawat isa Kung may sobra naman bakit di ka magbigay Sa iyong kapwa na naghihirap sa buhay Magbahagi ng biyaya at maging kaagapay Sa nangangailangan ibukas ang yong mga kamay

Blessings

By Cora Perez, CSA-Cainta Home BO Each day I wake up With good health and sound mind I know the LORD above has set A purpose in my life… To be a blessing… To my aged parents and parents in law, To comfort my family and relatives, To share blessings to friends in need, And to make PLDT subscribers happy and fully satisfied with every service I extend to them. So I close my day with thanksgiving to the Lord above And ask HIM again to wake me up when the next day arrives. 29

Kaya pala

Ni Rheb Rosales, Business Process Assurance

agong taon bagong pag-asa bagong panimula. Tulad ko ganyan din marahil ang iyong sinasabi sa pagpasok ng 2017.

Ang dami nating gustong gawin, baguhin, simulan at mapagtagumpayan sa panibagong taon na ipinagkaloob sa atin. Ang tanong para kanino at bakit mo gagawin ang mga bagay bagay na ito. Hindi gaya noon napagod na akong magsulat ng mga hangarin ko sa buhay dahil sa tuwing babalikan ko ang aking listahan siguro maganda nang may natupad na isa o dalawa. Ayaw ko na rin gumawa ng dream board dahil pakiramdam ko pinapaasa’t sinasaktan ko lang ang aking sarili. At pagkatapos nun tinatanong ko si Lord kung bakit, hindi ko nagawa, kung naririnig ba niya ako sa tuwing tinatawag ko siya, kung mahal nga ba niya ako, kasi napapansin ko, ang ibang tao parang ang dali sa kanila ng buhay, parang hindi siya patas, oh di ba napaka-immature ko. Hanggang isang araw bago magbagong taon, nilinis ko lahat ng aking mga gamit, tinapon ang dapat itapon at itinabi ang dapat itabi. Nakita ko ang tatlong puting envelope kasama ng aking mga diploma, isang sulat sa aming Mayor, mga sertipikong aking natanggap at isang ribbon ng karangalan. Habang sinusulat ko ang sanaysay na ito, ako’y napapaluha, ganun din ang aking naging reaksyon nang nakita ko ang mga bagay na ito. Sa hirap ng buhay, hindi lahat ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataong makapag-aral. Kailangan mong suungin ang lahat para sa isang pirasong papel: ang diploma. Library, imbes maglakwatsa, magtrabaho imbes na gumala, fish ball at banana-cue imbes na fries at burger. 30

Taong 2009 nang matapos ako sa kolehiyo, tandang tanda ko pa na bumili ako ng puting envelope sa National Bookstore Recto at isinulat ang nasa larawan. Arawaraw naghuhulog ako ng limang piso para makaipon at matupad ang aking isinulat subalit dumating ako sa puntong nawalan na ako ng pagasa, na hindi para sa akin ito kasi yung ipon ko ay unti-unti ko ring kinukuha. Sa paglipas ng taon sa ilang lipat namin ng tirahan dahil sa mga bagyong dumaan, kasama na itong envelope sa mga alaalang aking kinalimutan. Taong 2015: Ang mga bagay na aking binitawan, magkakaroon pala ng katuparan. Laking tuwa ko nang isa ako sa napiling kumatawan ng aming paaralan sa isang kumpetisyong ginanap sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Los Baños. Aminado kaming walang maiuuwing karangalan nguni’t isa itong maganda at malaking pribilehiyo para sa amin. Ito na rin ang naging daan para maakyat ko ang bundok Makiling. Ngayon, patuloy ako sa pag-akyat sa iba’t ibang bundok ng Pilipinas. Masarap balikan ang nakaraan lalo na kung punong- puno ito ng magagandang alaala. Mga alaalang kung saan mo mapagtatanto ang realidad ng buhay na kahit bumitaw ka na sa iyong mga pangarap ay ipagkakaloob pa rin ng nasa itaas kung ito’y sadyang para sa’yo, matuto ka lang maghintay at magpatuloy sa buhay. Sa pagtugis sa iyong pangarap, asahan mo ang baku-bakong daan na mahirap tawirin pero sulit naman kapag narating mo na ang tagumpay. Laban lang! CC:

By Christian Imperio, student-trainee Cavite State University Questions continue to linger From the depths of logic and objectivity We ask but to no avail, Ultimately falling on deaf ears It serves as a void In a state of limbo that pulls you To a one-way ticket to nowhere Leaving you in a state of despair and isolation Logic whispers a question Asking for an answer that transcends comprehension But as life continues to ride the wave of time Questions will remain as questions in the end

The Awakening

By Katrina A. Mallari, Media Seconds, minutes, hours, days We count the numbers in a daze Feelings chase our inner beings Asking questions, seeking for meanings We come across people with different beliefs One stays and the other leaves And that entire time, We are left to ask, “What moments do time own and which is mine?” For the essence of time varies – In one’s phases and own particularities There are moments when time goes by slowly But sometimes, it could stop by quickly It knocks on our doors With an all-knowing force And when time creates moments of wonderful pauses, Let’s take the opportunity to count our wins and even our losses Because time teaches us many lessons – That it goes on in all four seasons That the past are filled with memories treasured for a lifetime That the present is meant to living life to its fullest And that the future is a bright, sparkly ray of sunshine Filled with hope and love and positive delight So wake up from an enchantment of mere dreams And awaken to a reality that is yours for the taking 31

Bilog

ni Masayang Buhay Patapos na muli ang mahimbing na gabi At ang paligid ay nakatakdang magliliwanag. Marahil may mga bagay na di na tulad ng dati, ito may nakakapanatag o nakakapagpabagabag. Muli, ikaw ay ginising ng itinalaga mong kaaway, Na nais makuha ang lahat ng mayroon sa iyo. Nand’yan ka na naman at nagsasayang ng laway. Kailan ka kaya tuluyang matututo? Halintulad sa mga mayang kung saan-saan napapadpad, Ang direksyon mo’y pasulong, paatras at kadalasa’y baluktot. Ganiyan ba talaga ang iyong hinahangad? Sino kayang hindi nayayamot? Kaaway, oras na para gumising ka! Panahon na ba para ikaw naman ang magsisi? Tignang mabuti ang sarili sa harap ng iyong mga kasama. Sigurado ka bang ikaw lang ang walang ginagawang mali? Gaano ba kadumi ang iyong isip? Mali ka! Hindi ito isang panaginip!

W.A.K.E U.P. (G.I.S.I.N.G. N.A) By Marjory C. Sy, Prod Serv

When all in this world seem to be against you As though you’re alone to face the music Keep your eyes focused on the beauty despite the adversity Everything happens for reasons you may not know yet Undeterred, our faith should remain fearlessly steadfast Powered by our trust in the One who holds the future GOD, our Abba, knows what our frustrations are - big or small In times of weakness, He is the Strength and Beacon seeing us through Surrendering to His Plan liberates us from overthinking and unnecessary anxiety In times of uncertainty, let the good Lord inspire us to let go of the reins and be held Nothing can separate us from His Love and it’s our freedom to choose GOD above all things – to do His Work for His Greater Glory. Not about us but more of Him, let us offer this year and our every day Accounts of His Legacy be our stories, witnessing to the opulence of His Grace.

Getting it right the second time around By Olive O. Barrozo

nlike the rest of us, Ursula Todd doesn’t need a wake up call to change things because she is capable of correcting her mistakes from the get-go, having the extraordinary fate of living her life all over again. Ursula is the main character in Kate Atkinson’s Life After Life, an unforgettable novel that can send you reading nonstop from page 1 to 529 in one sitting. It’s quite long but captivating stories are hypnotic, making time irrelevant until you reach the last page and regret finishing. So you ache to read it again. The story begins in 1930 when Hitler was starting to rise in his political career. The scene is a café in Germany: “He was at a table at the far end of the room, surrounded by the usual cohorts and toadies… The table was laden. Bienenstich, Gugelhupf, Käsekuchen. He was eating a slice of Kirschtorte. He loved his cakes. No wonder he looked so pasty, she was surprised he wasn’t diabetic. The softly repellent body (she imagined pastry) beneath the clothes, never exposed to public view. Not a manly man…” Twenty-year-old Ursula tries to assassinate him. Then “darkness fell.” Revert to 1910, Dr. Fellowes who was supposed to attend to Sylvie Todd’s delivery did not make it in time and baby Ursula dies from asphyxiation. But in the next chapter, the good doctor delivers the baby and everything turns out well. Until she is suffocated by a cat sleeping on her face. Challenges abound in Ursula’s story: as a toddler, she drowns in a beach; as a child, she falls from a window, and later contracts Spanish flu; gets raped as a teen-ager;

and suffers grave abuse from her husband as an adult, the list of unspeakable occurrences look endless. Ursula’s life is full of bizarre episodes, accidents and anguish, frameworked by horrendous historical events. But she always re-emerges alive and unscathed, thanks to her gift of second chances. Her offbeat family likewise provides a compelling account. The third child of an upper middle class English couple, her siblings include a soulless, insensitive older brother, a gorgeous and conventional sister, two younger brothers who each have interesting life stories, and a strong-willed, freespirited aunt who can easily thrive in the 21st century more than she did in the 20th. Atkinson goes back and forth in time, with resurrections pervading the entire story. It can be puzzling but excitement lurks behind the puzzle and the mind boggling incidents. After a while, you get used to meeting once again in succeeding chapters hitherto dead characters. They’re perfectly alive once more, pursuing a different path, living a transformed life. The author retells Ursula’s narrative over and over again, giving readers the opportunity to see the alternative outcomes: These things happened because she took another road; she behaved otherwise and made a different choice. Would she have prevented World War II if she succeeded in assassinating Hitler in 1930? What kind of world would we have if WWII did not take place? Life After Life leads us to a sphere where it could be possible to rewrite our lives and make better decisions for ourselves and the world we live in. But then, there is always time and space to seriously think and arrive at the best decision the first time. CC: