ACC:ESS January 2015 by PLDT Media

acc:essjanuary2015

02 Bright, loud and perky –

that’s how 2015 is expected to be. With technology being broader and more reliable, the telecommunications industry starts to roll out more technology-based features and faster mobile networks. In the cover of its 2015 maiden issue painstakingly conceptualized by Media graphic artist Daryll Sambat, ACC:ESS focuses on the emerging power of mobile technology that will definitely play an essential role in the evolving modern technology and society. This is as mobile users now begin to be more engaged and connected to the social media network and industry market, aptly coined now as mobile commerce or m-commerce.

our cover

21 regulars

01 From the Editor 01 Mailbag 07 Snapshots 20 The Bandwagoner 21 Life & Arts

news

02 News Feature #DearPopeFrancis in PH PLDT Group unifies support for successful papal visit 06 PLDT to introduce cloud-based desktop service for enterprises

12 featureS

08 PLDT employees welcome the new Fam Cam from PLDT HOME 10 House O’ Joy A PLDT village built from the hearts of employees 12 2015 Sinulog Festival PLDT showcases newest service for the Filipino family 16 2015 & Beyond: Mobile technologies to play vital role in social network evolution and user behavior Cover Story

n the book “Against the Tide” by CNN’s John Allen Jr., Pope Francis has been called the “Pope of Mercy” with mercy seen as the spiritual cornerstone of his worldview. Allen said this was prominent in Francis’ first Sunday mass as pope at the Vatican’s St. Anne Church, when he said, “In my opinion, the strongest message of the Lord is mercy.”

Mercy and compassion

And this is the message that His Holiness brought to the country when he visited from January 15 to 19. With comforting the victims of Typhoon Haiyan as the main purpose of his apostolic visit, the pontiff flew to Tacloban despite the bad weather and apologized profusely when he had to leave four hours earlier than originally scheduled. The PLDT Group was truly blessed to be able to take part in spreading Pope Francis’ message of mercy and compassion in the Philippines. Aside from providing telecom facilities in critical sites of the papal visit, the PLDT Group also powered the international media centers in Diamond Hotel and Manila Hotel. PLDT and Smart also provided live streaming of the papal activities, including the mass at the Quirino Grandstand, in various churches and selected PLDT sales and service centers across the country. Smart has also partnered with Twitter to provide free access to the popular social media networking app. The #DearPopeFrancis hashtag carried by the MVP Group and used by TV5 for its official papal coverage enabled devotees to express their personal messages, petitions, and greetings for

MAILBAG

Gatchalian

the pope. This hashtag used in social media was shared by almost 380,000 users and reached 3 billion impressions worldwide from December 1 to January 19. It was surpassed only by the related #WeLovePopeFrancis hashtag popularly used during the last two days of the papal visit.

Even before the Pope’s arrival, PLDT employees have shown mercy and compassion with the House O’ Joy campaign in December for a PLDT Village of more than 40 homes that as HR Group Head Butch Jimenez has said, “built from the hearts of employees.” The spirit of gift-giving was also internalized by the PLDT HR family as they gathered underprivileged families and persons with disabilities just before Christmas to distribute Sack O’ Joy bags filled with noche buena items. Another strong message amplified during the papal visit is protection of families. PLDT HOME took this message to heart with its new FAM CAM product that provides families greater peace of mind.

Pope Francis would always end his speeches by asking the people to pray for him. As we heed his call, let us also extend our prayers to the PLDT Group as we navigate another challenging but exciting year. May the “Francis effect” linger until the rest of our days and turn us into rock stars not just in faith, but also at home and at work!

Jay-Anne R. Encarnado

staffbox Mon R. lsberto Public Affairs Head EDITORIAL Butch G. Jimenez Editor Jay-Anne R. Encarnado Editor-in-Chief Sennen F. Lacsamana Managing Editor Paul Anthony A. Isla Olive O. Barrozo Adrian T. Elumba Raymond C. Co Sarah Azucena-Reodica Writers Daniel G. Moratalla Jay F. Garcia Photographers Annie O. Salazar Arnel N. Samson Circulation Nonong F. Noriega Columnist Carlo D. Gonzalez Mark Daryll P. Sambat Graphic Design CONTRIBUTORS Teresita B. Almo, Paul Edward Alvarez, Melvin P. Artugue, Jan Lester E. Bisco, Laemar John V. Chavez Nathaniel L. Co, Danny L. Handayan, Luis C. Maglanoc, Marcos Bruce L. Manguerra, Maureen Maquiddang, Sarah Cielo Q. Meneses, Jovie Naval, Jeffrey S. Quilatan, Zeanine R. Rollon, Jessica Daphne D. Salonga, Marjory C. Sy, Avic R. Vera

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

Subscriber Jennifer Laplano Rodriguez has commended Aurelio R. Gatchalian, Sr. Telecom Technician from Marikina CSZ, for his steadfast service and excellent manners. Following is an excerpt from Rodriguez’s post on her FB account: “… A. Gatchalian was very polite and really sounded that he wanted to assist me. He greeted me and my mother as soon as he arrived in our house and immediately changed the modem. I liked how he handled his job and the way he talked to us, so I think he deserves to be commended for that. I hope you have more technicians like him because a customer without internet connection is really inconvenient, especially for work-at-home people like me… Thanks again.” CC:

News

Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines may have come as a security and logistics nightmare to most people. But it is at the same time an undeniable spiritual milestone for the devoted majority to see and ensure that His Most Holiness is safe and happy in his mission. Getting involved in the preparations for his five-day visit is a challenge that could have dissuaded the fainthearted but to the hardworking men and women of the PLDT Group, the call to serve is a test in sacrifice and a blessing that no one could ever pass up. Papal preparations When Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines was officially announced, the network groups of PLDT, Smart, and Sun Cellular started work on firming up the wired and wireless facilities in the areas included in his itinerary, as well as in the critical sites where the government and the church were stepping up preparations for the pontiff’s scheduled trip. The Apostolic Nunciature, the Pope’s official residence during his visit, was provided with fiber optic connectivity and landlines for his and the residents’ use. The media headquarters of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), where Cardinal Chito Tagle and CBCP officials regularly held press conferences regarding pertinent announcements and information on this milestone event, were installed with highbandwidth connectivity. “One of the challenges that we faced was the request to provide highbandwidth connectivity to places like the CBCP Media HQ in Intramuros. These were coursed to us just weeks before the Pope’s arrival but we we’re glad to do it to the delight of the top echelon of the CBCP,” said PLDT VIP Account Management Executive Anton Lim.

ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

#DearPopeFrancis in PH

PLDT Group unifies support for successful papal visit Aside from the CBCP media HQ, international and local media outlets who were in the country for their respective papal coverage were also provided with internet connectivity. “The team also installed a 20Mbps Metro E line plus microwave facilities between the primary press center at Diamond Hotel, which housed the Vatican media, and the secondary media center at Manila Hotel used by all other media entities numbering a hundred if not a thousand altogether. These services made it possible for the hotels to hook up with each other especially when press conferences were held,” Lim added. Furthermore, the PLDT Group provided connectivity to other crucial areas in the Pope’s trip such as the Tacloban Airport, Archbishop’s Residence in Palo, University of Santo Tomas, and

Quirino Grandstand. Extensive efforts were undertaken at the request of both the church and the government. Aside from connecting the different sites, the PLDT Group also provided satellite phones to government and church authorities as well as Vatican personnel to ensure communications support during Pope Francis’ five-day visit. #DearPopeFrancis The Pope’s visit was made even more momentous for the Filipino Catholics with everyone exhausting every which way to be able to at least see a glimpse of the pontiff. Although there were devotees who travelled to specific venues where the Pope celebrated the Holy Mass, many others wanting to see him did not have enough resources to see the Pope. Having this in mind, PLDT, together with other MVP-led companies unified their efforts to

make the papal visit meaningful and to share such experience to more Filipinos. Tapping the power of social media and digital access, #DearPopeFrancis became the unifying banner that the MVP group of companies supported. Highly promoted by Kapatid network TV5, #DearPopeFrancis collated people’s sentiments, prayers, wishes, pictures, and messages that carried the hashtag from all forms of social networking platforms to a dedicated website, www.dearpopefrancis.ph. The website showed a gallery of sorts from online posts about the papal visit that people could view and appreciate. Smart, Talk ‘N Text, and Sun Cellular subscribers were given free mobile access to Twitter, enabling

them to share their experiences and get more information online, while Maynilad provided water stations and public assistance at the Quirino grounds that saw more than six million Filipinos gathering for the Holy Mass despite the heavy downpour.

viewing sites in strategic areas as well in different sales and service centers (SSCs) and partner parishes in various regions that broadcasted Pope Francis’ activities and the Holy Mass held in Quirino Grandstand enabling more Filipinos to take part in the celebration.

Aside from TV5’s regular news reports on the Pope’s visit, Cignal TV also streamed the activities that happened during the event including the press conferences at Diamond Hotel. Cignal TV viewing sites were set up in the areas near Quirino Grandstand watched by bystanders and those patiently waiting for the papal motorcade.

“I was so happy that the Pope was here in the Philippines. It was an honor to be able to hear mass from the Santo Papa himself. The Papal Visit has strengthened my faith in God even more,” said Parañaque resident Wilfredo Cruz, 64, who watched the Pope’s mass through live streaming setup at St. Joseph’s Parish in Parañaque. “I’m so grateful for this telecast, it was very good. I didn’t like to miss the mass. I heard from a friend that PLDT

With feeds from TV5 and Cignal TV, PLDT HOME provided live

“ Tapping the power of social media and digital access, #DearPopeFrancis became the unifying banner that the MVP group of companies supported. ”

Devotees flock to the Quirino Grandstand in the pouring rain with their Santo Niño images.

JANUARY 2015

Smart service operations team members monitoring mobile services during the event.

PLDT network team is shown here with the NTC team for the papal visit monitoring.

PLDT powers the CBCP media headquarters set up for regular conferences on important announcements prior to the Pope’s visit.

would livestream the Santo Papa’s mass here.” With crowds flocking at the Quirino Grandstand early in the morning for the afternoon mass, it was a challenge to get a good spot in the park grounds not to mention the freezing cold rains that poured the whole day. “Talagang gusto namin sana na maka-attend ng mass ni Pope. Talagang pinaghandaan namin, ‘di ko sana isasama ‘yung anak ko pero wala na akong kasama sa bahay kaya sabi ko baka pwede.’Di na kami nakalusot sa sobrang dami ng tao. Nilalamig na kasi siya so nag-decide kami na umuwi na lang. Nang napadaan kami dito, (sabi ko) manood tayo ng misa,” recalled Las Piñas resident Eden Mangapuro, who watched the live streaming of the Sunday mass at the Pasay SSC. Hurdling challenges From the start, it was made clear that ensuring the safety of the Pope was definitely a challenge to reckon with.

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Back in 1970, Pope Paul VI evaded an assassination attempt in Manila after an attacker swung a knife at him in the airport, while Pope John Paul II’s second trip in the Phippines in 1995 went on smoothly after security prevented an assassination plot a week before he arrived. With past papal visits in the Philippines and abroad already marred with assassination attempts, the government, church officials, and the private sector weren’t taking any chances and were determined to streamline cooperation and communication for Pope Francis’ security. During his arrival, the government ordered all mobile service providers to suspend operations in various areas, for security reasons. The public affairs, customer experience, and digital media groups worked double time to explain to the media and general public why services had to be temporarily halted. “We had to reallocate resources from the hotline to answer the complaints

on social media. People were very irate in the first two days. As much as we wanted to be proactive by forewarning people of the service suspensions on the first day, we were not allowed to. That was a big challenge for us,” said I-CON department head Reuben Pangan. When Smart Service Operations Center Manager Wolverine Valderia learned about the government’s suspension order, he initially felt bad for his team which had been preparing since September last year. “But we understood that this had to be done for the safety of the Pope. Still we continued to gear up. Suspension or no suspension, we had to provide whatever services that we could to the public to the best of our ability.” Aside from readying security measures, the weather was also an unpredictable element that could affect the Pope’s stay and his set itinerary. Weeks before the Pope’s visit, weather agencies had been observing a low pressure area that could dampen all the preparations being done if ever it progressed. Many prayed that it wouldn’t but as everyone feared, it threatened to bring in rains and progress into a typhoon that affected one of the Pope’s primary agenda – his mission to comfort the suffering of the survivors of supertyphoon Yolanda in Leyte. Despite the downpour, Pope Francis flew to Leyte and fulfilled his promise. He celebrated mass upon

“The PLDT, Smart, and Sun Cellular employees’ efforts for the papal visit did not go unnoticed by Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan who thanked the staff nationwide for ‘their dedication, effort and hard work.’ ”

05 Tacloban residents hear Pope Francis’ special mass held in the airport to hear his message of mercy and compassion. Photo by Amar Eligio Marquez

PLDT VP Finina Gorres explains the features of satellite phones for communication during operations to Cardinal Chito Tagle.

his arrival at the airport in Tacloban where thousands had gathered and waited for his coming. He went on with his itinerary albeit cutting it short because of typhoon Amang. He nonetheless showed his devotion to the Filipinos in Leyte but unfortunately had to fly back earlier to Manila. His much-awaited mass at the Quirino Grandstand also felt the cold climate and the downpour but it also witnessed the ‘waterproof’ devotion of the Filipino Catholics who waited patiently to hear what Pope Francis had to evangelize. With people drenched in the rains, the PLDT group personnel also weathered the same fate at the

Quirino Grandstand as they manned public assistance booths for the participants. Several employees even camped out overnight in the sites, braving the rain and cold weather, to man the network facilities. “The night before Pope Francis’ mass at the Quirino Grandstand, I saw some of the engineers in the area using tarpaulins as their beds and blankets. It was raining then, but they chose to endure the weather because they might find it difficult to enter in the morning,” Valderia said. Satellite-phone powered public assistance centers provided invaluable service and comfort to the distraught. Senior community marketing specialist Sharon Bejer shared how one woman from Cavite

came to a public assistance center at the Quirino Grandstand in tears, as she had lost track of her companions, one of whom was a senior citizen. Many of the employees on the ground went beyond the call of duty to serve their fellow Filipinos. “I saw that some of my engineers were drenched. When I asked why they were not wearing the raincoats and shirts we provided, they said, ‘Sir, we gave the raincoats to the elderly who did not have rain gear, and the shirts to some of the kids. They were drenched from the rain.’ Indeed, Pope Francis touched many hearts that day, including those of our engineers,” Valderia said. The PLDT, Smart, and Sun Cellular employees’ efforts for the papal visit did not go unnoticed by Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, who thanked the staff nationwide “for their dedication, effort, and hard work.” For the country, Pope Francis may have left, but for those who saw, served, and sacrificed for his mission, he has affected us for the good that will last us a life time. CC:

JANUARY 2015

PLDT to introduce cloud-based desktop service for enterprises

PLDT, through its corporate business group PLDT ALPHA Enterprise, is launching a cloud-based enterprise-grade virtual desktop solution that leverages the technologies from virtualization and cloud infrastructure solutions leader, VMware. To be introduced under the PLDT Cloud, “Desktop as a Service” or DaaS will enable enterprise personnel to virtually access their desktop applications and data over the Internet or a private network giving them full use of their respective desktop over any device. “We’ve seen notable reception of Cloud technology among local enterprises, and we are constantly partnering with key IT

leaders, such as VMware, to ensure our PLDT Cloud continues to be relevant and aligned to our market’s strategic thrusts,” said PLDT FVP & Head of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise Jovy Hernandez. In line with the growing adoption of the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) concept among enterprises, PLDT Cloud Desktop as a Service (DaaS) will provide businesses easy access to their desktops over any device, cutting down costs of deploying and managing complex IT requirements over traditional PCs. An offline mode also lets users save any changes and updates on their virtual desktops that eventually syncs their progress once they connect online.

“The PLDT DaaS solution addresses the increasing adoption of the “Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) trend among enterprises, lowering the cost of ownership with the use of less expensive thin clients, and greater IT security compliance within their organization,” Hernandez highlighted. With companies often undergoing technology refresh or company-wide updates every three to five years, this necessity to stay updated often entails high costs. DaaS addresses costly IT operational costs by saving on time and expenses of setting up new hardware by outsourcing the infrastructure and maintenance to a trusted service provider. CC:

PLDT ComRel conducts medical, dental mission in Dumangas, Iloilo PLDT Community Relations Division headed by Evelyn M. del Rosario and its volunteer doctors and employeevolunteers both in Manila and Iloilo recently conducted medical and dental mission in Dumangas, Iloilo with 861 medical patients and 144 dental patients, both for adults and children. Most of the patients came from Brgy. P.D. Monfort where PLDT Iloilo office is situated. There were also patients who came from nearby barangays. PLDT Iloilo CSOZ headed by Rene Lescano and some Iloilo employeevolunteers also assisted in the mission. The patients were treated for colds, fever, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, pulmonary and respiratory illnesses. Municipality of Dumangas Mayor Rolando B. Distura was very thankful for PLDT’s assistance and admired the dedication and generosity of PLDT in giving such services to the needy especially seeing the branded

ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

Dr. Rey Bitantes checks on one of the patients with twin siblings as the parents wait for their turn. Looking on is Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura and PLDT ComRel Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario.

medicines shared to the patients. The municipality of Dumangas was in full force in giving assistance together with the municipal and barangays health volunteers and barangay officials. The Philippine Red Cross Iloilo Chapter, PLDT’s partner in bloodletting initiatives, also extended their assistance.

PLDT’s concern for health is part of the Company’s response to its corporate social responsibility and the medical and dental mission are conducted to likewise support the marketing efforts of the customer service operations zone. Alice P. Tuazon, PLDT Community Relations

snapshots

PLDT Training and Development Center celebrates 15 years of topnotch quality practices

Starting with a dream to earn the coveted ISO certification way back then when The Training and Development Center through TechTrain, EmpDev & Training Support took on the pioneering spirit, it eventually became one of the first corporate academes to merit the badge of honor. Later on, the Recruit & Placement, Medical, Payroll and Industrial Relations centers joined in the bandwagon and further cemented the stature of Human Resources Management & Development Sector as an organization within PLDT that adheres to the quality management system under the leadership of FVP Emil Tanchico, standing extreme left. Photo shows HR executives and team leads after recently passing its annual external audit for fifteen consecutive years with TUV Rheinland auditors Manineth Pulido, John Faustorilla and Rolly Remitar, standing 1st row, 3rd, 4th and 5th respectively.

MVP Group dominates 2014 JAPI badminton tournament; PLDT bags overall championship title The MVP Group dominated the 2014 JAPI badminton tournament participated in by 32 teams from various companies with PLDT team emerging as overall champion in the competitive level. Smart emerged as champion in the fun events, while MERALCO won second place in both competitive and fun events. It was a straight win for PLDT in all matches in the competitive level for men’s and ladies’ doubles. Stanley Macaspac, who was awarded as 2014 MVP Player for Badminton and partner Diosdado Abangan were able to snatch the title from long-time defending champion Union Bank. PLDT’s lady players May Pamorada and Kim Mayono also conquered the ladies’ doubles event by beating in the semi and final double round robin matches the formidable ladies of MERALCO who were champion in the recent MVP Olympics Fatima Dela Cruz and Desca Calimlim.

PLDT ComRel conducts plant tour for University of Perpetual Help Spearheaded by PLDT Community Relations, a plant tour was conducted at PLDT Innolab in Boni Avenue, Mandaluyong City for the teachers and students of the University of Perpetual Help. Together with the participants are their instructors Leilani Gonzales and Maria Carmela Capul, 6th and 8th from left, and was facilitated by PLDT ComRel’s Annie J. Ferrer, 1st row, 5th from left.

JANUARY 2015

feature

Employees celebrate a delightful PLDT family fun day with homegrown talents and popular celebrities at the RCB driveway.

PLDT employees welcome tHe new

FAM CAM FROM PLDT H OME BY OLIVE O. BARROZO

On to the new frontier. PLDT HOME executives join on stage as PLDT Home launches the new FAM CAM.

LDT employees celebrated a fun-filled day as the all new FAM CAM from PLDT HOME was launched recently at the RCB Driveway.

PLDT HOME continues the tradition of launching new products at the beginning of the year, ahead of everybody. Always well attended, over 2,000 employees witnessed the event this year via livestream. The best of PLDT’s homegrown talents along with the country’s popular performers entertained a rapt audience as they listened to an astounding duet from Treasury FVP Leo Posadas and son Anton, and the charming trio of HR’s Ethel Araullo and daughters Eunice and Eulah. Surprising the crowd was a cool dance number from PLDT EVP and Head of HOME Business Ariel Fermin, FVP & Controller Chaye Cabal-Revilla, and HR SVP Butch G. Jimenez.

ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

Shown here with PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan are, from left: TV5’s Dannica Sotto-Pingris, LJ Moreno-Alapag, PLDT EVP and Head of HOME Business Ariel P. Fermin, PLDT FVP and Controller Chaye CabalRevilla, and PLDT HR SVP Butch G. Jimenez.

Pops Fernandez and Martin Nievera with son Robin greet the audience.

Employees also had a blast taking groufies or group selfies with TV5 artists and young moms Dannica Sotto-Pingris, and LJ Moreno-Alapag. Everyone in the gathering – celebrities, executives, and employees alike – expressed their need for a vital gadget like the FAM CAM, a monitoring camera that helps give parents peace of mind wherever they are. PLDT EVP and Head of HOME Business Ariel Fermin said, “FAM CAM is the latest addition to the connected home. It offers peace of mind to parents and demonstrates how technology can help families overcome physical distance and strengthen ties especially in this rapidly evolving digital age.” One of the guests during the event, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid said that FAM CAM would make her feel at ease whenever she and her husband Ogie are working on location shoots and her son, Nate, is at home with his yaya.

PLDT EVP and Head of HOME Business Ariel P. Fermin, PLDT FVP and Controller Chaye Cabal-Revilla, and PLDT HR SVP Butch G. Jimenez perform the “wiggle” in a surprise dance number.

Mary Grace Sze of PLDT Support Management Auxillary Services couldn’t agree more. “As a parent, my child’s security is of paramount importance.” While she and her husband Michael spend most of their time at the office on weekdays, MG stays in touch with her three-year-old daughter, Georgie, and her yaya through the FAM CAM. “Coupled with our MyDSL connection, the FAM CAM provides stable and real-time monitoring so I am able to check on my daughter at home anytime I want. So even while I am at the office, I feel that my family is secure and I have peace of mind.” CC: Homegrown talent PLDT Treasury FVP Leo Posadas sings with son Anton.

HR’s Ethel Araullo renders favorite pop songs with daughters Eunice and Eulah.

Regine Velasquez-Alcasid in a candid moment with Martin Nievera.

The PLDT HOME DSL composed of parents Aaron and Dianne San Luis, twin daughters Denise and Danielle, and son Alex, with TV5 stars Dannica Sotto-Pingris and LJ Moreno-Alapag.

JANUARY 2015

House O’ Joy

A PLDT village built from the hearts of employees

ollowing the devastating typhoons that hit the country, PLDT’s HR Group decided to take a notch higher the traditional Sack O’ Joy giftgiving for Christmas. They believed that the PLDT community can contribute a more permanent solution for the affected communities – the House O’ Joy. A housing project that utilizes a steel frame shelter, the House O’ Joy allows construction at less time and fewer manpower than the other construction of temporary shelter such as bunk houses and tents. House O’ Joy only deploys in minutes and is quickly turned into a livable structure that already comes with an off-grid solar energy panel system and built-in LED lights that is capable of giving sufficient light for up to 8-15 hours. Every PLDT employee is asked to help in building this community one brick at a time. Every P200 donation buys one brick. One house needs 340 bricks. The aim is to build more than 40 houses. For a short period of time, thousands of PLDT employees have already donated for the House O’ Joy. PLDT Group Head for Human Resources Butch Jimenez has expressed his thanks to all who have donated earlier. “This will be a PLDT village built from the hearts of employees. How cool is that,” he said. Every P400 donation also entitles employees to a raffle where an iPhone 6, a Samsung Galaxy S5 with Watch gear and an LED TV will be given away. “Christmas is more meaningful and special when you do acts of kindness to others. This also only shows the modern bayanihan of the Filipinos, giving something we have for the betterment of the whole. ‘Yan ang Pusong PLDT,” Jimenez concluded. CC:

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PLDT HR Group Head Butch Jimenez cites every Company employee who is helping in building the House of Joy community one brick at a time.

The House o’ Joy is a product of the modern bayanihan of the Filipinos, giving something they have for the betterment of the whole. ‘Yan ang Pusong PLDT.

Shown here are the men and women and the families invited during the Christmas party for a cause organized by PLDT HR.

A Day Filled With Loving and Giving

PLDT HR celebrates Christmas for a cause By Zeanine R. Rollon, On-the-Job Trainee, University of the East-Manila

elebrating the birth of Christ can certainly be made meaningful if done for a worthy cause. Such has been what the PLDT HR family had in mind. Celebrating it in the most meaningful of way – through a gift-giving activity at Dansalan Gym. More than 60 underprivileged families from San Roque, Mandaluyong along with people with disabilities (PWD) and a Christian charitable association, Faith and Light Philippines (FNL) received Sack O’ Joy bags for their dinner on Christmas Eve. Annually, the HR family shares joy and happiness by donating part of their Christmas party stipend to charities, spearheaded by PLDT SVP for Human Resources Butch Jimenez. Each one of them actively participates to bring this program into fruition especially since it is the best time to give back all the blessings that they have received. For the 2014 Yuletide season, they thought of make it something new and more significant, they thought of having a simple Christmas get-together and interaction with the

families from the neighborhood at the same time. “We asked the HR employees to share at least P150. Some employees donated even more, some gave P300, P500, P600, P900, P1200, P1500 and even P3000. That’s why we have gathered an ample amount of money to give more than 60 Sack O’ Joy packs to more than 60 families. This is only in a span of three weeks, said committee chair Marites Santiago. “We gave two sacks per family that contained grocery items, enough for them to celebrate their noche buena.” Amidst the mirth and fun during the event, an audio-video presentation was shown that added glitter to the program. The party was filled with gratitude knowing that both executives and employees unite and fulfilled their mission while having fun at the same time. The program truly ended with bliss and it wouldn’t be a success without everybody’s support, unconditional love and passion to help the needy. Yan ang Pusong PLDT! May Puso para sa Kumpanya at may Puso para sa Kapwa. CC:

The HOME Market Development & Business Analytics group celebrates their Christmas party. Jovie Naval

JANUARY 2015

2015 sinulog Festival

One of the local dance groups that participated in this year’s Sinulog Festival give their all to honor the Sto. Niño.

PLDT showcases newest service for the Filipino family By jessica daphne d. salonga, pldt comrel

Photo shows Sto. Niño on site décor in front of PLDT Osmeña Blvd. office where the Sinulog Grand Parade passed by.

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ot even the storm could put down the unwavering Filipino faith and strong devotion to the Holy Child as the annual Sinulog Festival went on with its festivities. Despite the recent calamities that struck the region, one of the grandest Philippine events proved to be ever more vibrant and alive as devout Filipino Catholics celebrated the occasion with spiritual fervor and thanksgiving. This year’s theme emphasized the religious significance of the festival more than its cultural and historical delineations. And like the previous years, the Company was in full support for the grand festival. Showcasing PLDT Home set-up, the latest various products and services were made available to all visitors and revelers. There were also satellite booths along Osmeña Boulevard and the rest of the parade route, which altogether pushed PLDT Home’s all-new FamCam powered by DSL and Telpad. The side decor in front of the PLDT office was also requested by the City Mayor to corporations along the area.

Sinulog festival participants take a glimpse of what’s happening during the recent papal visit via PLDT’s live streaming facility.

Customers fill up application forms to avail of the various PLDT Home products and services at PLDT booth located in some strategic places during the Sinulog festivities.

Visitors were able to experience the features of PLDT’s new products and services. There were also games and prizes for the customers. A total of successful 294 applications were yielded during the event. Papal visit live streaming On the last day of the festival on January 18, a free livestreaming of the Papal Visit was made possible by PLDT. A 9x12ft LED screen was set-up at the PLDT Jones business office as passers-by witnessed not only the Sinulog parade, but also, had the rare opportunity to watch Pope Francis’s youth assembly at the pontifical University of Santo Tomas as well as the Papal Mass at Quirino Grandstand. PLDT Community Relations Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario was given the distinct honor to be one of the prestigious board of judges to choose the woman who possesses the beauty and elegance as she performed Queen Juana’s dance with the Santo Niño in her hands. Hailing from Placer, Masbate, Julienne Hazel Penserga won the crown as Ms. Sinulog Festival Queen. She performed with exquisite poise and beauty that had earned the nods from all the judges and Joemelina Delantar of Catbalogan City, who was also the 4th runner up of Ms. Sinulog Festival Queen, bagged the title of Ms. PLDT 2015. PLDT awarded her additional P5,000.00 as cash prize. PLDT ComRel Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario awards Ms. PLDT 2015 and 4th runner up Joemelina Delantar from Catbalogan City during the Ms. Sinulog Festival Queen pageant.

Both Ms. Sinulog Festival Queen and Ms. PLDT received a brand new Telpad, free six months Wi-Fi subscriptions, and the all-new Fam Cam plus premium giveaways. The other winners also received some PLDT tokens. CC:

JANUARY 2015

t was in the dawn of November 29, 2004 when flash floods and landslides awakened the people of Infanta, Quezon and nearby towns, after hours of continuous rains brought by tropical cyclone Winnie. The large volume of water that flowed from Sierra Madre caused the river channels to rise, and softened some parts of the mountain which resulted into a collapse, burying hundreds of people alive.

Planting the first seedling are, from left: MSWMC Chairman Rex Gamara, PLDT Lucena CSOZ Coordinator Rex Osio, PLDT Laguna CSOZ Head Mike Mejia and PLDT ComRel Head Evelyn M. Del Rosario.

One Seedling At A Time By Maureen Maquiddang, Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) Rex Gamara, a resident of Infanta, vividly recalled what happened during that fateful day. Gamara and his family were already standing at the roof of their house but the floodwaters continued to rise to their knees. They thought it was already the end of the world. “Hindi lang tubig pati putik saka ‘yung mga puno ang bumuhos galing sa bundok,” he said. “Talagang muntik na kaming mamatay, lahat nawala sa amin.” After a few days, the situation worsened when typhoon Yoyong, battered the province that triggered another flashflood. Illegal logging The trees, which could have held the floodwaters, were cut down due to the massive logging – the primary source of livelihood at that time. Deforestation and kaingin system were prevalent in Infanta and other nearby towns. According to Gamara, Infanta, Real and General Nakar had logging concessions in the 1950s and 1960s. When the big companies left, residents still opted to work for small-time loggers while others do it for charcoal production. “Hindi naman kaila na ang area ng Infanta Quezon, ng Real, and

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even General Nakar Quezon, itong part ng Sierra Madre, nagkaroon ng mga logging concession. So nung umalis na ‘yung mga malalaking kumpanya, ‘yung mga naiwan dito akala nila okay lang magkahoy at magputol,” he said. Flashfloods and landslides buried the town in deep mud and killed almost 900 people. In Infanta, the damage to its agriculture was worth P103.3 million while 4,266 houses were destroyed. Rising from the mud Gamara said they took advantage of every help they could get from the government, NGOs, and private corporations. PLDT was one of the very first private companies that responded providing relief operations and medical missions in the affected areas. PLDT Community Relations Head Evelyn del Rosario couldn’t forget the place when they first arrived after the typhoon. “This place was devastated. This was a ghost town before. We came here during the time when we could smell dead people buried under the ground,” she said.

The PLDT employee-volunteers pose for a souvenir shot together with the LGU representatives, farmers and the PBSP team.

PLDT distributed relief goods and held activities that helped survivors ease the pain and trauma from the tragic incident that almost took their lives. “We ate with them, chatted with them. We had a program where they sang and danced,” she said. The rehab plan In 2008, PLDT, in cooperation with the local government of Infanta and Real, Quezon and Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), initiated a rehabilitation plan to bring back the lush greens in the Infanta-Real Watershed Forest Reserve, one of the areas affected by the landslide. The PLDT TELEpuno project is a five-year rehabilitation plan to regenerate the natural biodiversity of Infanta-Real Watershed Forest Reserve. This year, the project reached its culmination with more than 80,000 seedlings planted in 80,000 hectares of land of the watershed. Every year, PLDT employees volunteered to plant a number of seedlings, in a bid to accomplish the total targeted number by this year, the end of its 5th year program. “In the first three years of the project, we were able to hit our projected number of trees that were planted with the help of the PLDT employee-volunteers,” Del Rosario said. “Notwithstanding the high elevation and the muddy challenging trek, the volunteers managed to climb it. Our volunteers also had a good relationship with the farmers. They’re like a family. The farmers weree ven sad when we had our last planting but they are really grateful for PLDT’s help and promise to take care of what we planted.” Daunting tasks Planting 80,000 seedlings target was a daunting task but the more challenging part was how to make it sustainable, especially with the majority of the residents relying on illegal logging as a source of livelihood back then. Aside from reforestation, PLDT also provided the locals with an alternative source of livelihood.

In 2012, PLDT initiated the construction of a fish nursery and provided 5,500 pangasius frys and juvenile fish to the Samahan ng Magbubukid at Mangingisda sa Barangay Cawayan (SMMBC) for their Pangasius Production Project. The farmerorganization is composed of 50 members from Barangay Cawayan, Real, Quezon. KILOS, another partner women’s organization with 30 members from Barangay Gumian, Infanta, Quezon, was provided with four high-speed electric sewing machines as a support to their Eco-Bag Project. KANLUNGAN, an 80-member farmer’s organization from Barangay Magsaysay, received training on vermi-compost production at the PBSP’s Center for Rural Technology and Development (CRTD) with the local government employees assigned at the Municipal Recovery Facility (MRF) of Infanta, Quezon. The locals, who used to cut trees for a living, are now the vanguards of the environment. PLDT tapped them to produce the seedlings for the whole duration of the rehabilitation plan and were even paid for it. They also served as the guides of the volunteers and caretakers of the seedlings until it had fully grown. “A percent of the fund coming from the PLDT TELEpuno ay sinet-aside sa pagtatanim (of the seedlings) at bibilhin iyon ng PLDT, at iyon ang itatanim sa area, sila din ang maghahanda ng pagtataniman, na sabi nga ay labor staking,” Gamara said. New future Gamara, who is now the Chairman of Multi-Sectoral Watershed Management Council, said that more than the provision of 80,000 seedlings, PLDT planted a new future for the environment and the people of Infanta and its nearby towns. “‘Yung aming watershed napo-protektahan, ‘yung aming tubig kanlungan ay muling yumayabong at muli ay nagkakaroon ng mga bukal. Kami ay taos pusong nagpapasalamat sa PLDT at sa PBSP sapagkat there are so many communities in the Philippines na hindi nagkakaroon ng opportunity na magkaroon ng TELEpuno project.” CC:

JANUARY 2015

cover story

& beyond Mobile technologies to play vital role in social network evolution and user behavior

By paul anthony a. isla

ith prices reaching affordable levels and high-speed data access made available in most markets, there is a growing trend of consumers getting more hooked up with their smart devices. This year alone, more and more consumers are expected to shift from offline and disconnected world to being constantly connected. The use of smart devices have grown at a faster rate than expected and has changed the way people interact, entertain, educate and even shop. MasterCard chief marketing officer Raja Rajamannar said in a technology outlook that growth [in smart devices usage] could reach 50 billion connected devices by 2020. As telecommunication companies expected to carry on new and faster mobile networks, Rajamannar said, analysts suggest the next-level network milestone will arrive as soon as 2018 to 2020 where the size, shape and functionality of existing handheld devices would evolve in numerous and different directions. Steve French, Amdoc’s OpenMarket global vice president, was quoted as saying that the number of mobile devices has already surpassed the global

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human population with nearly 90 percent of consumers owning a mobile and 30 percent owning a tablet. “Millennials are changing the mobile landscape. They are projected to have a purchasing power of $2.45 trillion by 2015 and would prefer mobile as their primary way to be reached and interact,” French said. More and more wearable smart devices, particularly smartwatches, are also expected to be rolled out to the market throughout the year. But these devices are not only expected to arm consumers with productivity tools, but will also provide them with fitness related uses. Over the years, a number of wearables have been introduced to the market such Nike’s Fuelband, Fitbit and Jawbone’s Up wristbands and have helped consumers become more conscious about fitness. In the short-term, Strout said more and more wearables are also expected to be released that will enable users to monitor their heart rate, skin temperature, breathing, sweat gland activity and even blood pressure. The shift is not expected only from a consumer standpoint, but also on a marketing standpoint for brands. Rajamannar said brands will push to engage many times through mobile rather than sell just once.

17 Rajamannar cited Heather Cox Citi’s chief client experience officer as saying that the days of companies selling to consumers are coming to an end. “The element of moving the position from sell to buy is something we’re going to be working on over the course of 2015 and beyond,” she added. Mobile commerce [m-Commerce] has taken a big leap in the last few years, and continues to grow faster than e-Commerce [for desktop computing]. IBM’s Digital Analytics noted that mobile sales have accounted for 22 percent of online sales [during Cyber Monday], which was a 27 percent higher than the previous year.

According to MarketingLand columnist Aaron Strout, mobile security becomes critical this year. Majority of the biggest data breaches with financial institutions, retailers and social networks have been hacked, though not mobile in nature. “As mobile apps and web usage become more prevalent, there is a significant risk as millions [if not billions] of people carrying smartphones and smart devices are exposed to personal and enterprise-level data cyber criminals. This year and beyond, mobile technologies are expected to play a vital role in the evolution and user behavior of social networks both for digital natives and digital migrants.

Mobile payments are projected to grow locally and eventually emerge as a global standard. In the near-term, mobile payments are seen to move toward an international level of functionality.

Locally, PLDT and Rocket Internet AG recently announced that both agreed to establish joint venture for payment services with a focus on emerging markets with each partner holding a 50 percent stake.

Moreover, there is a growing market for smart devices being used for household applications that will result in an intensified competitions amongst service providers.

“PLDT continues to build on its strategy to become a driving force in the digital economy, and with Rocket, we have a partner who understands the DNA of the global internet market more than any company,” Napoleon L. Nazareno, PLDT and Smart president and chief executive officer, said.

The Internet of Things (IoTs) is also seen to expand its footprint with the probability of wearables making a significant mark this year. “The advent of these IoTs accessories may well amount to part what is more a reset than a revolution in the coming years. The technology is there, but consumer awareness remains low,” Matthew Davis, Stepladder vice president for product marketing, said. Even in developed economies, developers and marketers of these devices have yet to convince consumers that wearables, smart home and connected cars are must haves, and yet these still remain to be nice-to-haves.

He added that they are also looking forward to continuing the long-term success story of Smart Money and optimizing the synergies between e-Commerce and innovative mobile-first payment solutions. The joint venture, which was kicked off by the pre-IPO [initial public offering] investment of PLDT in Rocket last year, builds on the complimentary strengths of Rocket and PLDT, to drive the massive adoption of online and mobile payment solutions in emerging markets.

JANUARY 2015

“The combination of PLDT and Rocket assets create a leader in mobile payment expertise uniquely positioned to capture the global potential of mobile-first payment especially in emerging markets. ” Oliver Samwer, Rocket Internet founder and chief executive, said the joint venture is the next logical step of the valuable partnership between Rocket and PLDT. “We are pleased that our shared vision for the growth opportunities of the global payment market has been implemented in such as expedited fashion. Rocket’s network of companies combined with PLDT’s 14 years of experience in the mobile payment industry will allow us to deliver world-class innovations in mobile money and micro-payments around the world,” Samwer said. Under the agreement, PLDT will contribute the intellectual property, platform and business operations of its market leading mobile-first payment platform — Smart e-Money Inc. (SMI), the pioneer in mobile banking and mobile wallet services that has handled transactions valued at approximately Euro 3.4 billion in 2013. With over five million active customers and 300,000 trade accounts, SMI owns and manages the Philippines’ biggest ‘branchless banking’ network, certified at the highest global security and governance standards as a financial service platform. Rocket Internet will contribute its participations in Payroll Holdng GmbH and Payleven Holding GmbH, two of the leading payment platforms for high growth, smalland medium-sized e-Commerce businesses across Europe. The combination of PLDT and Rocket assets creates a leader in mobile payment expertise uniquely positioned to capture the global potential of mobile-first payment especially in emerging markets. PLDT said the transaction is planned to close in the first quarter of the year pending approval by relevant authorities. PLDT and Smart earlier announced its multi-year collaboration with The Walt Disney Co. Southeast Asia

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through its interactive entertainment arm Disney Interactive. The collaboration will bring a wealth of new and exciting digital content offerings to users in the country, and is the first direct partnership for Disney Interactive with a telco company in the Philippines. The partnership will offer subscribers access to the entire breadth of the Disney Interactive portfolio, which includes popular digital titles under the Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucas Film brands such as “Frozen,” “Big Hero 6,” “The Avengers,” and “Star Wars,” among others. Nazareno said with the partnership, a first of its kind in Southeast Asia, users will now have access to an unprecedented amount of digital entertainment content from Disney, including mobile and online games, visual e-books, value-added content services, and other co-branded mobile and home entertainment products for the combined 75 million mobile and broadband subscribers nationwide of PLDT and Smart. “As Filipinos continue to embrace digital technology, it is pertinent that we provide fans content on these various multimedia platforms so they can enjoy the Disney experience at their leisure and convenience. “Working closely with the right locally popular brands like Smart and PLDT is important as they also seek to bring the best digital and multimedia experiences to their users,” James Gray, Disney Interactive general manager, said. With consumers getting hooked with their mobile devices, telecommunication companies, including the PLDT Group, are faced with this challenge of thinking out-of-the-box in providing their subscribers not just unmatched data access but also compelling and rich content that responds to the changing times and with the modern way people interact, entertain, educate and even shop these days. CC:

EmpDev AVP Nonong Noriega leads the commitment rites during the rousing finale. Behind him is AGS General Manager & Vice President for Enterprise Subsidiaries and VIP Account Management Luigi Lopa.

ABM Global Solutions:

Bolstering Prominence with Strategic Planning

reakthroughs in product innovation. Crafting revolutionary approaches to growing the business. Leveling up customer experience management. These became the tall orders that resonated throughout the proceedings of the Strategic Planning and Teambuilding Workshop held at Microtel, Sta. Rosa, Laguna for ABM Global Solutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top management team. With ePLDT Group COO Nerisse Ramos at the helm of visionary goal setting and General Manager Luigi Lopa taking the lead in drawing initiatives that would impact realization of corporate goals, 37 managers, supervisors and team heads across the country brainstormed, tossed insights, articulated opinions and eventually arrived at the intended â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;meeting of mindsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for the concerted stand to stay ahead of the game and win some more.

enabling and hindering factors that impact attainment of corporate objectives and performance of key roles. This segment proved to be a grueling process to iron out discrepancies in mindsets while marrying differing perspectives for an integrated approach to conquer the market battlefield. The Blue Ocean quadrant (increase, eliminate, create and minimize) for forecasting what lies ahead gave birth to flagship programs identifying and eventually involving cross functional teams to expedite the marketing of business management solutions for prized clients.

EmpDev AVP Nonong Noriega facilitated the session with Lydia dela Merced and Dome Gonzaga as deputy navigators of the ePLDT Group COO Nerisse workshop flow. AGS Director for Human Ramos articulates business Capital Management Nico Bambao acted as imperatives and inspires event organizer. topnotch performance for the challenging and exciting The environmental scanning exercise year ahead. provided participants a chance to uncover

Finally, the team dynamics portion allowed for simulated drills on problem solving and collaboration with the best synergy practices coming to fore. Quite memorable are the modules that highlighted responsible feedback and healthy affirmation amongst leaders, associates and peers. Indeed, the billion peso lofty aspiration for 2016 and another one for 2018 is now being enabled by solid management infrastructures, redefined operating systems, more upbeat leadership practices and work values that capitalize on agility, drive, teamwork, persistence, innovation and foresight. CC:

JANUARY 2015

the bandwagoner By nonong noriega

Nurtu

e d u t i t t A ring The

ith W n o i t a rm of Transfo

here are those who believe that the work environment has to be devoid of spiritual activities or programs that we may label as religious. During Oscar, Grammy and Tony awards ceremonies, hardly any winner who comes up on stage to accept his trophy thanks God. One wonders if this is forbidden. Here in the Philippines, we’re used to associating our honors as providential from the Lord. The first thing Manny Pacquiao does after winning a match is pay reverence to the Almighty Creator. Someone told me that in some parts of the Western world, it might not be politically correct to do so as certain cultures may get alienated. Still, one may find it ironical that during national disasters, the American people cry out, “In God we trust” and sing “God Bless America.” At the risk of sounding preachy, must it always take a catastrophe for us to realize that our lives are in the hands of Someone who is all-knowing, ever present, and all-powerful? Thankfully, in PLDT, we are a God conscious culture. Once, I was asked by someone to conduct a planning workshop for his organization under one condition – that I don’t inject prayer as much as I usually do. I tactfully declined his offer. I believe we can never talk of culture change without prayer. More so, no plans prosper unless God blesses them. I was glad to take that stand knowing that even our very jobs are owned by Him. Some theologians may refer to this school of thought as God’s economy. Call it what you will – but I’m glad that the teachings of God-honoring leaders and management gurus like John Maxwell, Ken Blanchard and Francis Kong have penetrated the corporate spheres with sound impact. Perhaps more than ever, the race for excellence has ne-

High motivation this side of the workforce of unsung heroes in HOME CMM/Outbound team!

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cessitated lofty standards in character building, which in turn can be attained through a spiritual journey of faith. John Maxwell has his own Leadership Bible where he draws rich parallelisms on the lives of the characters and practical workplace skills and wisdom book after book. Laurie Beth Jones in her classic “Jesus, CEO,” talks animatedly on how the Master’s visionary leadership approach can be appropriated to one’s own team management style. Therefore, following the wave of EQ (Emotional Quotient) studies that have gained popularity as defining hallmarks for leadership and winning differentiators in customer service, we are now witnessing the advent of SQ (Spiritual Quotient) as the emerging drive for building the culture and conquering more challenges. The premise is that when people are spiritually nurtured, they perform better. The employee who makes God his source of peace will likely have stronger threshold for stress. The worker who acknowledges God as his ultimate victory will not be easily discouraged by setbacks and misfires. The team player who praises God constantly will not have his momentum easily disrupted by slips and lapses and will be more focused on bouncing back in faith and pressing on. When we grieve over the loss of a life of a fellow employee, we begin to experience bouts with our own mortality. When one employee struggles with cancer, we storm the gates of heaven with mighty prayer. The truth gets reinforced – we are fully dependent on God’s mercy. We relearn how to number our days wisely. Suddenly, it’s all about living a purpose driven life. And it’s not by flimsy chance that we find ourselves working for PLDT. There are no mistakes in God’s book. He is the Great Architect of destinies. So yes, while we’re here, let’s give it all we’ve got… for His glory. Of all the places to be in the world, God willed that we work for an industry leader. So as we continue to embark on meaningful transformation, pay tribute to the One who gave us the gift of PLDT to bless us with rare opportunities that do not happen in everyone’s lifetime. May we responsibly use this gift to draw others closer to Him so that His kingdom will come on earth as it is in heaven. Yes, prayer has its place in the workplace. Not to be confined to invocations during programs. Truth be told – prayer is an attitude. And best when it’s an ‘attitude of gratitude.’ CC:

21 PLDT Public Affairs Head Mon R. Isberto takes a groufie of Acc:ess’ Life and Arts section’s contributing writers and artists. With them is Media Division Head Jayanne R. Encarnado.

When writers and artists met… By Olive O. Barrozo

oetry is everywhere. It’s in the calming darkness of the night and the silken silence of dawn. It’s perceptible in the discomforts of our everyday realities such as the tightly-packed van where every inch of space is occupied by people who have gotten inured to the snores and endless prattle of fellow passengers. But difficulties, like happiness, fuel our imagination. They make up our lives, oftentimes awakening the writer and the artist in us. Self-expression took center stage last December when some of Acc:ess Magazine’s contributing writers and artists met at lunch to get more acquainted and listen to some of their colleagues’ poetry. Civil Engineer cum poet Luis Maglanoc, a.k.a. Kristian Miguel, touched everyone’s hearts when he read “Imortal Ang Aking Ina,” a moving poem about his beloved mother. Some of his unforgettable lines include: “Hindi ko matanggap, hindi ko rin maitanong/ Kung pwede bang itigil muna ang panahon?/ Ang unang tao pinaghugutan ko ng lakas/ Hindi kailan man mawawala at kukupas.” Sarah Cielo Meneses of PLDT Carmona BO read a very refreshing poem that described raindrops as “translucent curtains made from white needles… the cold and bitter tears of a scorned goddess breaking silence, silencing thoughts.”

Beginnings A Collaborative Poem*

Nothing can be more exciting than beginnings When hope is at its highest and anticipation strongest Just like the sweet sound of a newborn baby crying A fresh start worth all the waiting Every journey begins with a first step The other foot naturally follows the pace Every step is hope, every ray is sweet There is always a way if we just try to stay As promises are made to be kept Like the sun rising from the east The light of the future with no regrets Endless faith in a braver tomorrow sets

Reading their respective poems are, from top: Luis Maglanoc, Sarah Cielo Meneses and Paul Edward Alvarez.

And for the feverish romantics, there was the vow of Paul Edward Alvarez which went in part, “…She would be my definition of a loss for words/ She would not simply be a summer’s day/ But all the days that make life beautiful/ It would be with the greatest events that her smile is generated/ all the sweet nothings that have ever been spoken would not compare/ to her sleepy hellos in the mornings…” As writers and artists, the group created an oeuvre. It was a fun activity with everyone shooting ideas, words and phrases. The result is the collaborative poem, entitled BEGINNINGS, printed on this page. They could have written an epic or a saga together except that lunchtime was almost over. CC:

Though the road may be rough, the directions confusing Many experiences can be amusing As everybody remembers their first kiss Echoing the warmth of the summer bliss Napakaganda ako ay napapikit Sana’y gumising sa magandang umaga Buo ang kalooban at puno ng pag-asa Maging matatag sa mga pagsubok Kumapit lamang at magkaisa How the beginning excites me Is more than how I fear the end Because effort is important and finishing is a thrill But no matter what the results may be It’s the journey that will set us free. *By Paul Edward Alvarez, Olive O. Barrozo, Jan Lester Bisco, Laemar John Chavez, Raymond Co, Adrian Elumba, Jay-Anne Encarnado, Danny Handayan, Mon Isberto, Luis Maglanoc, Marcos Bruce Manguerra, Sarah Cielo Meneses, Loida Nardo, Abelardo Pazcoguin, Marina Rowena Pumar, Jeffrey Quilatan, Danilo Radam, Winona Zerla Santos, John Paul Soriano, Mark Jason Teves, Renelia Villanueva, Mirachelle Zarsadias

JANUARY 2015

life+arts

MERCY&

COMPASSION

Painting by Jeffrey S. Quilatan, IT Mediation & Settlement Systems

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“Cup of Hope” Photography by Jan Lester E. Bisco, Financial Business Intelligence Warehousing

Note to Self: An Everyday Resolution By Sarah Cielo Q. Meneses, HOME BO Management

eing irritable, unsympathetic, and cynical is easy, especially nowadays when we are faced daily with people who may or may not be using human emotion to get what they want. It’s almost our default setting every time we sense someone trying to make us feel sorry for them. It matters not if these people are politicians, beggars, customers, co-workers, or even family and friends. Everyone around us dealt us the pity card at one point or another, and we too, in turn, tried to manipulate others using guilt. Being compassionate, on the other hand, takes a Herculean effort. To understand, to automatically try to find solutions to other people’s problems, and to make it a habit to place oneself in another’s shoes… It’s (and let’s be honest) draining and depressing. It’s easier to blame others rather than say sorry. It’s easier to judge people than to look at things from their perspective. It’s easier to say you don’t care because it’s not your problem. So I’m challenging you, self. Decide every day that you’re going to be as kind-hearted as you can. Don’t wait for holy week, or Christmas, or for a pope to visit. Do it not because you expect others to be good to you in turn as well. Do it not because you want significant people to praise you. Do it because it will make you a better person, and do it because it’s the right thing to do. You will have your bad days when all you want to do is be disagreeable. Be nice anyway. It would be inevitable that you would meet difficult people. Be civil to them anyway. You will often entertain thoughts of how unfair it is to you that you’re seemingly the only one making an effort to be understanding. Be unfailingly kind anyway. I know you’re already making an effort, and I know how hard it is. Make an effort every day anyway. Forget the bad things, and have a long memory for the good things. You will be making a difference. You already are. CC: JANUARY 2015

Aming Papa

Ni Teresita “Tess” B. Almo, Diliman SSC

Ang pagdating mo sa aming bansa ay isang malaking karangalan Lahat kami’y naghanda masilayan ka lamang. Maagap na pag aantay aming ginawa Init gutom aming tiniis masilayan ka lamang. Pitong oras amin kang inantay, kasama ng pamilya’t kaibigan Di ko maipaliwang walang anumang hirap, inip o pagod na naramdaman. Saksi ako sa iyong makasaysayang pag dalaw sa unang pagkakataon Nang ika’y masilayan, di ko maipaliwanag aking naramdaman. Halos lahat namangha at di maipaliwang kanilang naramdaman Tanging alam lang namin bukod kaming pinagpala sa presensyang aming natunghayan. Salamat sa pagmamahal lalo na sa aming mga kababayang nasalanta ng kalamidad. Dalangin ko sa maykapal bigyan ka ng maayos na kalusugan at maipalaganap ang pagmamahal sa kapwa lalo na sa mahihirap. Nawa’y maging eheplo ka ng lahat … mahal ka namin at salamat. lahat nawa’y tularan ka’t maging mabuting Kristianong tunay.

Artwork by Danny L. Handayan Tondo HOME BO

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25 Photography by Amar Eligio Marquez

Lolo Kiko’s Lesson

By Nathaniel Liwag Co Technical Standards and Compliance Division

Pope’s name he got from st. Francis of assisi His message is compassion and mercy He says there’s a need to show concern to others Loving-kindness extend and treat all as brothers Compassion for the least, lost and the last Let us not be cold, indifferent and judge so fast Loving compassion as god’s commandment to all of us Mercy we must give and we shall receive thus Compassion for the other for equal we all are For god has given life to all , near or far God’s loving mercy we have to impart For all of us, in god’s big family all are part

“Pope in the Light of a Thousand Stars” Photography by Adrian T. Elumba, Media

JANUARY 2015

TLC (Totally Loved by Christ)

By Marjory C. Sy, Products and Services Network and Platform Solution (ProdServ)

You embrace me in the night, dark and bitterly coldâ&#x20AC;Ś Like the Shepherd to a lost sheep with His arms enfold Others may have fled and left my side To fend for their selfish desires, and never bid goodbye You comfort my soul and tell me it is alright to cry, Assuring me that You are listening and there is no need to be shy When people turn their backs, their feelings for me grow cold Just as my flame has flickered faintly and their yearnings become old You inspire and warm me with the reminder of Your Love Unconditional, unbiased, unwavering, unchanging The worldly possessions, emotions are fast fleeting At the end, I know You are all I need to have The sign of times may infuse fear and anxiety The changes happening around may shake me Yet I know Your Grace will see me through The ups and downs, the greens and blues When I am tossed in the unknown and stormy seas, Your Peace will anchor and bring me where I should be You love me before I see the first light You know and call me by my name I am born a sinner and unworthy to be saved Still You atoned for my debts, my payment of death waived You gave Your Life in exchange for my freedom You give me hope to dwell and share in Your kingdom I thank You, Jesus, for my life You have redeemed For the countless times You have sought out this wayward soul Correcting and saving me from a deeper and darker fall I praise You, my Christ, for Your miracles greater than my dreams For wondrous blessings You shower ever since the time began Marvelous and brilliant are the works of Your Hands How can I not love You, Jesus, my Lord? I am just a speck of dust or a face in the crowd Yet You care for me and my life You restored Your mercy cannot be repaid by what my human capacity allows But make me Your servant and teach me Your Ways That I may inspire others to trust and follow You every day ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

Photo taken by Avic Vera at the University of Sto. Tomas during his recent visit to the Philippines.

I Met The Pope And will Keep His Words By Avic R. Vera, Revenue Audit

was so blessed to see the new Pontiff, Pope Francis, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where I was recognized as one of the World Youth Day (WYD) volunteers. I saw the humble Pope not only once, but several times.

The first time I saw him was during his arrival. He passed by the place where I was assigned and I found myself chasing the Pope’s black car. He was waving at the crowd, his adorable angelic face smiling at us. Unfortunately, I was not able to take his photo because a camera man accidentally collided with me, causing my mobile phone to fall to the ground and crash. The second time I saw him was at the closing mass in the famous Copacabana Beach where I was part of the human chain. On that occasion, I was able to take a video of him with the beautiful smile on his face. I saw him for the third time during the volunteers’ meeting with the Pope. I vividly remember his pleasant smile, his hand waving as he blessed us. With his coming to Manila, I felt the same excitement on seeing him and hearing his message to Filipinos. It is undeniable that Pope Francis loves the Philippines. As a member of a professional group in Don Bosco, called Peaceworks, I’ve always wanted to adhere and practice Pope Francis’ message of MERCY AND COMPASSION. I will start by taking THE HUNGER CHALLENGE. In this challenge, members of our group have committed to deny ourselves some of our wants, and donate some amount to pro-children advocacies. It is a small gesture of mercy and compassion that we can share with the less fortunate. We believe that it is only by getting “hungry” that we understand and alleviate the myriad hungers around us, especially the less privileged children. We are convinced that without compassion, the human community will never thrive. To Pope Francis we say, “Holy Father, your words have touched many lives.” CC: JANUARY 2015

Photography by Jan Lester E. Bisco, Financial Business Intelligence Warehousing

Mercy and Compassion I Had Not By Marcos Bruce L. Manguerra, Properties & Subsidiaries Audit

ercy and compassion I had not until I met the One that showed me what it takes to be merciful and compassionate.

When I was a baby, I never knew what mercy and compassion were. All I knew was that the world revolved around me and I was the star of the house. Whenever I cried, my mother would rush to prepare my bottle of milk. Whenever I threw tantrums to obtain something, my mother would readily give what I asked. As I grew up to be a teenager, I retained the same frame of mind until one day a Christian missionary walked into our school and gave me a little book, the New Testament Bible. But before he gave me the little book, he spoke of the Man in the book - Jesus, a simple Man full of mercy and compassion even before He became flesh and dwelt among us. He said that Jesus showed Mercy for sinners by dying for the propitiation of our sins. He also said that Jesus showed compassion when He fed the multitude that came from faraway places first with spiritual food – the gospel, and then with physical food – loaves of bread and fish, as they have forgone eating just to see and hear Him. Indeed, this man called Jesus taught me what mercy and compassion are and why I need to express them in my everyday transactions. While I may be miles and miles away from the level of mercy and compassion that He showed even up to this time, I am thankful and happy to have known Him for He has started and still continues to mold me little by little to be what He is – merciful and compassionate. CC:

ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

Photography by Amar Eligio Marquez

Light and Strength By Amar Eligio Marquez

November two thousand thirteen Typhoon Yolanda struck Tacloban Brought this crucible with wrath Making fury so horrible and flat One place feels it’s full of ferocity Brought out in men contrasting qualities Life breath taking one’s own safety Saving one’s life ignoring their properties Some houses were destroyed Abandoned and not restored Some people went missing And lot of life just vanished Now a year and two months passed Scars and wounds start healing fast Smiles on Taclobanons faces They must be living their life to the fullest January seventeen two thousand fifteen It got too rainy with a boost of winds Heading up to flashback what Yolanda brings With feeling of coldness and fears Long walk from downtown to the airport Just to see our Beloved Pope A little like exodus for the Pilgrims Yet everyone is excited on what he could bring

The feeling of coldness and fear disappeared Lightness and peace filled the air That feeling of emptiness Is what Papa Francisco filled in

Pope Francis landed at Tacloban before nine am From long wait amidst the rain Everyone began cheering The tears from their eyes started falling

Holiness and Peace were felt all over the place Faith rose and strength cascaded Nothing can compare to that feeling around A feeling of warmth and love from God

JANUARY 2015

Am I Worthy of His Mercy?

By Luis C. Maglanoc, PMA Central – SSPRM/CSOM

Among throngs of people, He dwells among the poor Giving hope where there is none, He lovingly stays. As children of His Faith, He feels their cherished treasure Kneeling down broken, a family silently prays. More than half their life, they travelled a beaten path Alms received to mend a storm’s deadly wrath! As the warmth of sunlight lifts one inner being More than an atonement, a reflection I have seen. Hatred and chaos seem to break what I believe! Yet, my Merciful Father, extended a hand of reprieve. Sending your Son to carry mankind’s Cross, Verses of peace to guide souls at lost. Endless times, I have questioned my cause, my existence! Fearful of today and doubtful of tomorrow. Though each morning brings peace, I find no more pretense He has carried my burden, took away my sorrow! I will be no stranger to my neighbors’ need But let me be strong to fight anguish and despair. One day I shall reap the harvest of an only Seed, And see my world live in harmony and care! Towards a road less travelled, I will radiate compassion Spread Your Word, that is my mission! Yes, I am still a sinner asking for your Mercy Longing for Heaven, let it be done unto me! I Am Kristian Miguel 13January2015 84139173 ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

Here I am, Send Me

By Melvin P. Artugue – FMA, ESAM Team C

You came to seek and save the lost Your love came down and rescued me I will lay my life for whatever it may cost For love came down and set me free

Author of salvation conquered the grave You find the astray and lead them home In sharing the gospel, I will be brave I will extend Your love to them like the dawn

Let me help those who are in need As You rescued me from that pit Into your call, I will heed As You raise me to my feet

A thousand times I fail, still Your mercy remains My heart finds love as I raise my hands high I will not stumble again for I am caught in Your grace All consuming fire, You’re my one desire

You set my feet on solid ground So I will be merciful to the unfortunate In Your love oh Lord I am found I will have compassion as I get rid of hate

Amidst the chaos, Your light will shine You’re the hope that the nations cling to You have chosen me to be Your salt and light I do not know what to do but my eyes are upon You

JANUARY 2015

o you need a master’s degree for this calling? Do you need a medical condition and have part of your lungs removed? Do you have to be a bouncer when you were younger? Does your name have to be Jorge Mario Bergoglio? Do you give up what you can get and choose to live the simple life and even cook your own meals? Do you need to be the first pontiff born outside Europe in 1,000 years? The numbers and facts we can sift through are astounding, but according to a single man, these mean nothing. This single man has rocked the world and has become subject to almost all forms of praises yet he openly suggests otherwise. What of this single man – Pope Francis?

fever: thefranciseffect By Leopoldo Lalim

People need not worry. He asks that we pray for him – always. He asks that we focus not on him but on Jesus.

The Pope visited our country last January 15 to 19. He has gone back to the Vatican now. We all have our stories. We’ve heard people’s stories. Be it under the cold and rain or in a leisurely vacation, the coming of the Pope has touched us one way or the other. “Pray for me” The Pope calls on us to think, feel, and do. He urges us to let the tears fall when we feel like crying. He suggests that we allow God to surprise us and allow ourselves to be loved. We must learn how to beg, to receive with humility, to be evangelized by the poor – this is what helps us mature in our commitment to give to others. He calls us to embrace our humanity ACC:ESS MAGAZINE

and be honest with ourselves. When we are honest, when we let things out, that “self-emptying” that we undertake allows the Holy Spirit to enter into our lives and spark our renewal. At PLDT, we are given so many chances to share our blessings. But are we simply giving and not looking? The giving portion is quite easy to do, a simple click of a button. But do you really see? Do you see enough of the suffering of the people you give to that you think twice about supporting imported products and choosing to buy the ones made by the inmates at Bilibid or the social programs of Caritas Manila? Do you see enough that you buy food for the kids that ask for a few pieces of change rather than look at them scornfully while thinking of their abusive parents? Do you see enough that you let out a sigh after seeing a picture of a poor child smiling and not concentrate on his cute smile and shift your thoughts to other things? “…The voice

of the poor bids us break the bonds of injustice and oppressions which give rise to glaring, and indeed scandalous, social inequalities,” said Pope Francis. Reach out to the needy, the homeless, and the abused. “Reality is superior to ideas.” The Pope has taken to selfies. He is very much open. Often the camera catches him smiling. His eyes reach far more than his arms. Those eyes glare with a want to share the joy of the Gospel to each and every one of us. The Pope knows very well the age that we are in. He asks us to make good use of the information available to us and make sure it bears good fruit with our sharing. What do we share on social media? Are we part of the mob that randomly and instantly puts up cyber picket lines against an issue we have not even known about for even five minutes? Are we easily swayed or affected by the things we read online? Do we share every bit of our lives or anything that we find interesting or do we hide ourselves behind a profile picture and a few “seens” and “likes”? Everything is easy in our own parallel online world. It is easy to show support to give a click. Sometimes we even answer survey forms. But have you ever heard of a child being saved by a million likes or clicks or shares? Have you ever heard of the icebucket challenge? Did you realize that the important act in the “challenge” was the donation afterwards? The one that saved the child was the person who gave his/her time and resources to go and make a difference. The “challenge” was to promote awareness of a disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS) and donate to research. The reality in ideas is the core that we must reach out for. Show your intentions and be sincere with your reality.

The Pope needed to be in the Philippines. He has apologized that he was a little late but he came. Oftentimes, we specifically remember and nurture with scorn in our hearts those series of unfortunate events that make us breathe out “God, where are you?” Pope Francis has answered, “I am with you.” The pain and the anguish make it really hard to see God. We can recall the women who visited Jesus’ tomb after his death. Their eyes were so full of tears, pain and anguish that they failed to see that he had already risen to heaven on the third day. They say the Catholic faith is blind as believers are all called to praise and worship a God they do not see. They simply believe – with the eyes of faith. We must realize that God has His plan. He is with us. Believe in His plan and our part in it. He also created all these people around us so we can see Him in them.

“God has been calling each and every one of us and continues to do so. It is sad that we only come and pray to Him when we are distraught and want something. Pope Francis invites us to call on God in our Joy. We can thank God for the seat in the bus in the morning.”

“I am with you” “We need to see, with the eyes of faith, the beauty of God’s saving plan. God is with you.” – Pope Francis

“We’re going with you…” “…The sunshine, Pope Francis, you’re leaving. But remember we’re going with you… to the peripheries, to love the poor, the lost and abandoned. Thank you for showing us the face of Jesus.” – Cardinal Tagle

Going back to my first point, Pope Francis encourages us to direct our attention to Jesus. This call is not new but thousands of years old. God has been calling each and every one of us and continues to do so. It is sad that we only come and pray to Him when we are distraught and want something. Pope Francis invites us to call on God in our Joy. We can thank God for the seat in the bus in the morning. We can thank God for that “almostness” of a near perfect dive of our phone into the gutter. Let’s go to the peripheries and flush out the sadness. Pray for Pope Francis and his intentions. CC: JANUARY 2015