DOT XI launches Davao Adventure Challenge tourism campaign at Mindanao Tourism Expo

Davao Adventure Challenge

DOT XI launches Davao Adventure Challenge tourism campaign at Mindanao Tourism Expo

The Department of Tourism XI proudly announces the successful launch of the Davao Adventure Challenge at the Mindanao Tourism Expo held on April 28 in Cagayan de Oro City.

The Davao Adventure Challenge tourism campaign aims to promote the diverse and thrilling adventure activities that Davao Region has to offer. It also endeavors to attract adventure seekers from around the world and position the region as a premier adventure tourism destination in the Philippines.

“Together, we will rediscover Davao Region’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures and exciting adventure pursuits in this year-long tourism campaign,” said DOT Xl Regional Director Tanya Rabat Tan.

During the launch event, attendees were treated to a presentation showcasing the various adventure activities in Davao:

For Hiking Trails: Mount Apo, in Davao del Sur; Mount Hamiguitan, in San Isidro, Davao Oriental; and Mount Dinor in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. For Water Thrills: Water Tubing in Sibulan River, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur; White Water Rafting in Davao City; Skimboarding in Dahican Beach, Mati City; and Giant Clam Sanctuary Tour in Samal Island.

For Scuba and Freediving: Samal Island in Davao del Norte; Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental; and Pujada Bay Dive Sites in Mati City. For Extreme Adventurers: Canyoneering in Tagtugonan Falls, Kapalong, Davao del Norte; Spelunking in Su’bon Cave, Matanao, Davao del Sur, and Okbot Cave in Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

For Heights and Flights: Ultralight Plane Experience in Mati City, and Sky Adventure Rides in Eden Nature Park, Davao City.

The Department of Tourism XI is collaborating with local government units, DOT-accredited establishments, tour operators and guides in curating unique adventure packages that cater to different interests and skill levels. To join, interested participants can simply sign up via www. dotxievents. com.

Once registered, they can choose any, if not all, of the 15 initially available adventures for the entire year. Challengers can then scan the QR codes at the sites, and then post photos via social media. For every completed challenge, they can earn points, which would qualify them for e-badges and rewards.

“Beyond the thrills, it’s an opportunity to explore unfamiliar places, learn new cultures and sustainable practices, meet locals as well as your fellow adventurers, and create memories that will surely stand the test of time,” added Tan.

For more information about the Davao Adventure Challenge and to plan your next adrenaline-filled getaway, visit the Facebook page of the Department of Tourism – Davao Region for regular updates.

Chinabank Reaffirms its Customer Focus with New Campaign

Focused on You

Chinabank Reaffirms its Customer Focus with New Campaign

Chinabank has launched a brand refresh program and digital campaign to evolve the 103-year old bank’s brand and image, making it more resonant and engaging to a new generation of customers.

The bank replaced the signages of its head office and branches in an ongoing rollout, released on social media its new ad and new jingle “Focused on You”, and placed billboard ads in EDSA-Magallanes and SM MOA Globe featuring its first ever brand ambassador, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, a third-generation member of Chinabank’s founding family.

The brand refresh builds on Chinabank’s solid foundation as a trusted bank with a keen understanding of its clients’ needs in an evolving landscape. The bank’s new tagline “Focused on You,” which is also the title of its new jingle and digital campaign, reflects its firm commitment to serving its customers and putting their best interests in mind. For the last 103 years, the bank has helped tycoons when they were just newbies, billionaires when they only had a billion to one shot. To this day, the bank gives the same focus and attention to all its customers, not caring whether they are big or small, but only seeing the size of their dreams. The new logo, with its stylized “CBC” monogram, a symbol that embodies stability and simplicity, gives Chinabank a younger, more agile, and dynamic look.

“Chinabank has been growing and transforming through the years, in step with the times and more importantly, in line with the changing needs and perceptions of our customers,” Chinabank Investor & Corporate Relations Group Head Gerald Florentino said. “We believe this brand refresh will develop the Chinabank brand in the right way and enable us to deepen existing relationships and connect with a broader market.”

Established in 1920, Chinabank has been known as a businessman’s bank with a strong affiliation with the Chinese Filipino community. While maintaining its deep ties with this niche market, Chinabank has grown into a strong and stable universal bank—now the country’s fourth largest private domestic bank—offering a full suite of banking products and services for corporate, commercial, and retail customers. As it pursues its growth plans, embarking on a digital transformation, the bank’s board and management also saw the need to revitalize Chinabank’s brand and image.

“How you take the brand forward is vital to any company’s future success. Even if you’re already well established, you have to find fresh approaches to re-engage your loyal customers and build connections with new ones,” Chinabank Marketing Communications Department Head Aileen Vallesteros said. “Our ‘Focused on You’ campaign reinforces the brand’s strengths and makes Chinabank more relatable to the new generation of customers.”

The whole brand refresh process went smoothly, Vallesteros noted, because the bank’s Chairman Hans Sy and President & CEO Romy Uyan were on board and hands on, from the choice of the brand ambassador to the messaging and design. With the leaders’ buy-in, everyone in the bank embraced the change./PR

Hold 9th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo in Davao City this May

Slate RP Halal Trade and Tourism Expo here

Hold 9th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo in Davao City this May

The Universal Islamic Center (UIC), the institutional partner of Davao City Halal Industry Development Council (DCHIDC) will be organizing the 9th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo (PHTTE), with a theme: “Global Halal Market: Tourism, Trade and Investment Opportunities.”

According to PHTTE president Marilou Ampuan, the Expo will be held on May 23-25, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang, Davao City, Philippines.

This year’s PHTTE will have three main components: an exhibit, a plenary, and business-to-business and business-to-customers sessions. There will also be ancillary activities showcasing Mindanao’s culture, food, and modest fashion and three other Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) member countries.

The global halal market is a $7.2 Trillion economy worldwide, and PHTTE 2024 provides a platform for exhibitors and other participants to access and be part of this unstoppable bandwagon.

The plenary will bring together the tourism academe, entrepreneurs, and experts to present and discuss the latest trends in the Halal industry. The learning sessions will equip and empower individuals and enterprises of Halal and Halal potential food, manufacturing products, agriculture, tourism, e-commerce, and allied services to address challenges in doing halal business in the Philippines.

To take the first step to secure your booth, complete your reservation form via link https://forms.gle/eLj4azLArA69TbVq5

New Sustainable Banking and Finance Network Research Reveals Rapid Policy Reforms as Catalyst for Expanding Sustainable Finance in Emerging Markets

Sustainable finance in emerging markets

New Sustainable Banking and Finance Network Research Reveals Rapid Policy Reforms as Catalyst for Expanding Sustainable Finance in Emerging Markets

WASHINGTON D.C., April 24, 2024 – The IFC-facilitated Sustainable Banking and Finance Network (SBFN) has unveiled its 2024 Global Progress Brief and launched the innovative SBFN Data Portal, offering the most comprehensive benchmarking of sustainable finance trends and initiatives across sixty-six Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs).

The 2024 Global Progress Brief highlights key achievements, challenges, and opportunities within the SBFN community across three pillars of sustainable finance defined in the SBFN Measurement Framework developed by members: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Integration, Climate and Nature-Related Risk Management, and Financing Sustainability. This year’s assessment included emerging priorities such as nature-related risk, inclusive finance, and new indicators on climate risk aligned with international good practices and standards.

Since the 2021 SBFN Global Progress Report, all SBFN countries have made swift efforts to introduce climate- and nature-related risk management frameworks, reflecting the translation of commitments made under the Paris Agreement into regulatory action. ESG Integration has also emerged as a cornerstone of sustainable finance, with thirty-nine countries implementing frameworks to manage Environmental and Social (E&S) risks in investment decision-making in line with international standards such as IFC’s Performance Standards, while leveraging them as tools to prevent greenwashing in sustainable finance instruments.

“The record growth of the network and tremendous member progress in shaping policy and influencing markets over the past three years signal the immense power of collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge sharing to steer financial systems toward sustainability,” said Alfonso Garcia Mora, Chair of SBFN Secretariat and IFC Vice President for Europe and Latin America & Caribbean. “SBFN members are demonstrating the importance of recognizing climate and environmental risks as contributors to financial system vulnerabilities, while also highlighting the potential to transform these challenges into opportunities for developing new markets in sustainable finance.”

Furthermore, the surge in the adoption of sustainable finance taxonomies and thematic bond guidelines in SBFN countries is mobilizing financial flows towards activities that support global and national sustainable development goals. Notably, an impressive US$759 billion of thematic bonds have been issued across forty-five SBFN countries.

SBFN comprises ninety-one financial sector regulators, ministries, and industry associations representing seventy countries, and $68 trillion (92 percent) of total banking assets in EMDEs. Moreover, member countries have launched over 400 policies, marking a remarkable 107 percent increase compared to the 2021 report.

In tandem with the Global Progress Brief, SBFN introduced its groundbreaking Data Portal, a dynamic tool designed to track sustainable finance initiatives across member countries on an ongoing basis. Providing detailed insights into SBFN members’ actions, this innovative platform enables regular and consistent monitoring of progress, facilitating multi-dimensional benchmarking across countries, regions, and indicators. The Data Portal will serve as a catalyst for peer-to-peer learning, knowledge sharing, and experience exchange among SBFN members.

“The launch of the SBFN Data Portal represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to drive sustainable finance forward,” said Nezha Hayat, Chairperson and CEO of the Moroccan Capital Market Authority (AMMC), and Co-Chair of the SBFN Measurement Working Group. “This innovative platform will empower our members to track progress, identify best practices, and foster cross-learning, ultimately accelerating our journey toward a sustainable future.” (PR)

For more information on the 2024 Global Progress Brief and Data Portal, visit https://www.sbfnetwork.org/.

About IFC

IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record $43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Stay connected with IFC on social media

About SBFN

Established in 2012, the Sustainable Banking and Finance Network (SBFN) is a voluntary community of financial sector regulators, central banks, ministries of finance, ministries of environment, and industry associations from emerging markets committed to advancing sustainable finance. The first global network of its kind focused on sustainable finance at market level, SBFN comprises 91 member institutions representing 70 countries and at least US$68 trillion (92 percent) of the total banking assets in emerging markets, as of April 2024. SBFN members are committed to moving their financial sectors toward sustainability, with the twin goals of improved environmental and social risk management (including disclosure of climate risks) and increased capital flows to activities with positive climate, environmental, and social impact. IFC, part of the World Bank Group, is SBFN’s Secretariat and knowledge partner, assisting members to share knowledge and access capacity building to support the design and implementation of national sustainable finance initiatives. For more information, visit https://www.sbfnetwork.org/

NGCP energizes its Cebu-Negros-Panay Link, calls for more power generation projects to avoid outages in Visayas

Calls for more generation projects

NGCP energizes its Cebu-Negros-Panay Link, calls for more power generation projects to avoid outages in Visayas

As part of efforts to improve power transmission services in Cebu, Negros, and Panay, NGCP successfully energized the Cebu-Negros-Panay 230-kiloVolt (kV) Backbone Project Stage 3 (CNP3), increasing the transfer of power capacity from Panay to Negros to Cebu, and vice versa.

The remaining components of the multi-island interconnection project were energized at 10:01AM of 27 March 2024, strengthening the transfer of power from Panay to Negros to Cebu, and vice versa.

The new line, with a carrying capacity of 400MW, is the 3rd stage in the Cebu-NegrosPanay backbone. his upgrades the existing Amlan-Samboan submarine cable which currently connects Cebu and Negros islands. The first stage of the CNP Project added a new 230kV transmission line from Bacolod to E.B Magalona, while the 2nd stage upgraded the Cebu Substation into 230kV level.

While the energization of the line will definitely improve transmission services and the reliability of the grid, NGCP stressed the need for the implementation of strategic developments in the generation side to fully optimize the benefits of the strengthened interconnection.

“The project’s completion was touted by some parties as the primary solution to the recent spate of power outages in Negros and Panay. But CNP3 is not the sole or primary solution to the woes of Panay consumers. Transmission and power generation go hand in hand. Sufficient power generation development supported by reliable transmission is the formula for optimized energy development. This will support the country’s push towards economic recovery,” NGCP explained.

“We have long advocated for a holistic approach to energy industry development. Generation and transmission must be developed together. One cannot be made to bear the whole burden of keeping the industry stable,” NGCP stressed.

The CNP3 is the last of the three critical projects the transmission service provider delivered amidst mounting calls for completion of projects, and despite experiencing numerous challenges beyond its control. Difficulties in securing right-of-way, slow progress of expropriation cases, and permitting issues with several local government units have hampered the completion of the project’s critical components. The project was completed by NGCP in less than seven years, below the average of 7-10 years of project completion in first world countries.

“This is a big step towards improving power transmission services in the Visayas grid as its energization will allow the delivery of power to support Panay’s needs from Cebu or elsewhere from the grid, provided that there is an availability of excess power generation.

While the line will help improve the delivery of power, more baseload plants in Negros and more in-island generation in Panay are needed to prevent the occurrence of power outages,” NGCP said. “The energization of the CNP is a testament to NGCP’s commitment to complete this, and all its other projects,” the company added.

The CNP3 is comprised of 544 transmission towers spanning 354 circuit kilometers of overhead lines, 58 circuit kilometers of submarine cables, and 10 substations.

The project was filed for approval with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) in 2016 with a project cost of PhP43.41 Billion. However, the ERC granted a provisional approval in 2017 for only one year’s worth of capital expenditure amounting to PhP176.75 Million. NGCP has yet to receive the ERC’s final approval.

“Despite awaiting the ERC’s final approval of the project and the corresponding budget for its construction, NGCP continued to pursue the completion of the CNP3 due to the critical operational need to strengthen the transmission backbone in the area,” said NGCP.

Aside from the CNP3, NGCP also recently energized the Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection, which fully links Mindanao to Luzon and Visayas, for the more efficient operation of a single Philippine grid. Last year, one circuit line of the Hermosa-San Jose 500kV Transmission Line (HSJ), critical to Luzon, was also energized. ###

SM Prime marks 30th anniversary with record-breaking income, PHP 100 billion investment for 2024

SM Prime reaffirms its position as a catalyst for economic development and community advancement.

SM Prime marks 30th anniversary with record-breaking income, PHP 100 billion investment for 2024

Manila, Philippines – SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPH), the leading integrated property developer in the Philippines, marks its 30th anniversary as a publicly listed company with the announcement of its highest-ever recorded income and a ₱100 billion investment for its partners, stakeholders, and communities they operate in. With eyes set on the future, SM Prime reaffirms its position as a catalyst for economic development and community advancement.

SM Prime’s (L-R): Assistant Corporate Secretary Arthur Sy, Corporate Secretary Atty. Elmer Serrano, Chief Finance Officer and Chief Compliance Officer John Nai Peng Ong, President Jeffrey Lim, Independent Director Atty.  Darlene Marie Berberabe, Chairman of the Board Henry Sy Jr., Vice Chairman and Lead Independent Director Amando Tetangco Jr., Non-Executive Director Herbert Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, and Non-Executive Director Jorge Mendiola

Record-Breaking Performance

During the Annual Stockholders Meeting held on April 23, 2024, SM Prime announced its highest-ever recorded income, reaching PHP40 billion in consolidated net income, marking a 33% increase from 2022. Additionally, the company’s revenues surged by 21%, soaring to PHP128.1 billion, a notable growth from the previous year. The consolidated operating income also saw significant growth, rising by 24% to PHP61.3 billion.

The outstanding performance can be attributed to SM Prime’s mall business, driving 56% of consolidated revenues and a 30% growth to PHP71.9 billion in 2023. This growth was bolstered by a 24% increase in mall rental income, amounting to PHP61.3 billion. Moreover, the opening of four new malls in 2023 expanded SM’s retail presence to 85 malls in the Philippines and 8 malls in China.

Meanwhile, SM Prime’s residential business group, led by SM Development Corporation (SMDC), recorded an 8% growth in revenues to PHP43.1 billion in 2023. The residential group’s gross profit rose by 15% to PHP25.4 billion, with reservation sales standing at PHP102 billion.

In addition to its mall and residential businesses, SM Prime’s other key segments, comprising offices, hotels, and convention centers, contributed 10% of consolidated revenues, reported PHP13.1 billion in revenues in 2023, marking a remarkable 26% increase from the previous year.

Commitment to Shared Growth

At the core of SM Prime’s success is its unwavering commitment to shared prosperity in every city where they are present. With a strategic ₱100 billion investment capital expenditure in 2024, SM Prime aims to reinvest in its partners, stakeholders, and communities.

SM Prime aims to continuously expand and develop new places for every Filipino to enjoy. Sixty percent (60%) will be dedicated to enhancing its malls, development of new residential properties under SMDC, and construction of new hotels and convention centers. Forty percent (40%) will be directed towards acquiring new properties and coastal developments to pave the way for modern, eco-friendly urbanization.

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability and Disaster Resilience

SM Prime has always been committed towards creating a sustainable future. SM Prime continues to work towards its goal of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040, aligning with the Department of Energy’s target of reaching a 35% renewable energy share by 2030.  Through partnerships with renewable energy suppliers and organizations like the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), SM Prime endeavors to reduce its environmental footprint and advocate for sustainable practices in all areas of its operations.

SM Supermalls’ SM Cares and SMDC’s The Good Guys also remain actively engaged in various community initiatives, such as conducting community disaster preparedness programs, providing support programs for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, and promoting job generation and entrepreneurship through nationwide job fairs and MSME programs. Other initiatives include coastal clean-ups, the donation of school buildings and fire trucks, and the organization of eco-camps for youth.

Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime Holdings shared, “At SM Prime, we’re not just building spaces; we’re cultivating lifetimes of progress and shared growth. Our commitment lies in empowering Filipinos to thrive within their neighborhoods, whether through convenient shopping experiences at SM Supermalls, quality living in SMDC homes, or fulfilling work environments in our office properties. We believe that individual success fuels community prosperity, creating opportunities, and driving the nation’s growth for many years to come.”

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. For more information, visit http://www.smprime.com. ###

Emerging trend of Job Title Inflation in the Philippines sees limited success in Attracting and Retaining Talent

Emerging trend of Job Title Inflation in the Philippines sees limited success in Attracting and Retaining Talent

….. there has been a noticeable rise in job title inflation among employers in the Philippines.

Philippines, 5 April 2024 –Over the past year, there has been a noticeable rise in job title inflation among employers in the Philippines. Positions with titles such as ‘Directors’ have seen a significant 34%^[1]  increase and a 22% increase in titles like ‘Presidents’ for jobs intended for professionals with only two years of experience. While using inflated titles may be seen as a strategy to attract and retain talent, it is crucial to carefully consider the implications when making hiring decisions, as this can potentially lead to challenges for both employers and employees alike. These are among the observations and insights from Robert Walters Philippines about this trend.

Job title inflation refers to a practice by companies to offer inflated or exaggerated job titles that may not accurately reflect the responsibilities, seniority, or even salary of the position.

Using inflated job titles to attract and retain talent

Job titles and promotions are valued by professionals. Based on LinkedIn polls conducted by Robert Walters Philippines in January, 92% of professionals agree that the job title is important or very important when applying for a role. Among young professionals, 23% also expect to be promoted within 12 months of working in a company.

While some companies have tried inflating job titles, the success rate varied. Among companies, 38% of hiring managers surveyed shared that they have or are considering inflating a job title to attract or retain professionals to a role within their organisations. However, only 3% shared that this move has worked to its desired effect while a significant 59% have not adopted this strategy at all.

Inflating job titles can present challenges, as professionals may not view them as a meaningful indicator of seniority. According to our recent findings, factors such as managing a team (44%) and the perceived importance of the role (41%) hold greater weight in determining seniority. Surprisingly, only a small percentage (15%) consider a C-Suite or Head-of title as a true sign of seniority. This underscores the notion that while an inflated job title may seem appealing, factors such as team leadership and the perceived significance of the role are more influential in establishing seniority than the title itself.

“While job title inflation may offer certain advantages, it also carries the risk of causing confusion regarding the actual roles and responsibilities associated with these positions. Additionally, using overly inflated titles may lead to disillusionment among employees if their job titles do not accurately reflect their duties or level of seniority. It is worth noting that this trend is not applicable to all industries, but is commonly seen in technology, startups, digital media, marketing, advertising, and professional services sectors due to the intense competition for talent and strong reliance on innovation and creativity,” shares Jayson Mendoza, Manager of Human Resources and Industrial at Robert Walters Philippines.

Robert Walters Philippines strongly advises hiring managers to exercise caution and thoroughly evaluate the situation before considering the option to inflate a job title. While there may be valid reasons to consider this approach, it is crucial to weigh the pros and cons and fully understand the potential long-term implications for the organisation.

“Elevated job titles can often create a mismatch between the skills and qualifications of employees and the actual requirements of the job. When hiring individuals solely based on their desire for a grandiose title rather than their suitability for the position, organisations run the risk of experiencing poor performance, increased turnover, and wasted resources. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain accurate and meaningful job titles to ensure clarity, fairness, and trust within the workplace,” concludes Mendoza.

For more information on Robert Walters in the Philippines, please visit www.robertwalters.com.ph. (PR)

^[1] Based on LinkedIn Talent Insights

Worry Free Cruising: Holy Week Travels with SM Supermalls’ 50 EV Charging Stations

#ReChargeWithSM …. #EVTravelsWithSM

Worry Free Cruising: Holy Week Travels with SM Supermalls’ 50 EV Charging Stations

As the Holy Week approaches, many Filipinos are gearing up for a well-deserved break, seeking the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re planning a road trip up north or a leisurely drive down south, you can #ReChargeWithSM through an extensive network of free Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) at 50 SM malls around the Philippines, ensuring your journey is smooth, convenient, and eco-friendly.

Before setting off on your Holy Week adventure, drive worry-free as SM Supermalls’ EVCS remain open to serve you, with the exception of The Podium from Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (March 28-29) and SM City Manila, SM San Fernando Downtown and SM San Pedro on Good Friday (March 29).

Now, let’s start your #EVTravelsWithSM with scenic routes and exciting destinations for your Holy Week getaway:

Davao

Visit Davao’s highlands and islands with your e-vehicle. Begin your journey by making a pitstop at SM Lanang and charge your e-vehicle at the mall’s basement parking. Indulge in the sea of clouds and reflect at the Majestic Peak with the 360-degree scenic view of the mountains and Via Crusis at Marilog, Davao City. Not into highlands? Discover giant clams and white sand beaches at the Island Garden City of Samal, a tropical haven near Davao City.

Bukidnon

Prepare your leather boots and feel the breeze at the Communal Ranch in Bukidnon, Northern Mindanao. With vast mountain ranges and adventure-packed activities, you’ll surely have a long weekend to remember. Plus, there’s a perfect place too to contemplate and have spiritual healing, which is The Abbey of the Transfiguration in Bukidnon. Just don’t forget to recharge your e-vehicle at SM Cagayan de Oro Downtown and SM Cagayan de Oro Uptown in preparation for this exciting nature therapy.

As you embark on your Holy Week adventure, let SM Supermalls’ extensive network of EV Charging Stations guide your way. Vacations in the Visayas and Mindanao can recharge at SM Cebu, SM Cagayan de Oro Downtown and SM Cagayan de Oro Uptown and SM Lanang in Davao.

With free charging services in strategically located branches nationwide, you can pack your bags, hit the road and make unforgettable memories this Holy Week with SM Supermalls.

Charge up your EV while recharging your energy at SM Supermalls!

EVCS @ SM malls nationwide

Charge up your EV while recharging your energy at SM Supermalls!

Read on for some tips to maximize your time at SM while waiting for your EVs to charge

The in-mall charging stations support e-Vehicle brands such as Audi, BMW, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Hyundai, among others.

Good news for eco-friendly EV owners! You can find free EV Charging Stations (EVCS) at 49 SM malls nationwide. As the largest network of EVCS, SM Supermalls makes powering up your E-Vehicle quick, convenient, and gives you access to countless activities and entertainment.

Here are just a few of the activities you can enjoy while powering up your EVs at SM Supermalls.

1. Have a hearty meal at your favorite restaurant – or try something new!

SM Supermalls have numerous food options you can grab a bite from while waiting for your EV to charge. Dine in at your favorite restaurant, or be adventurous and try something new. Either way, you’re in for a treat, and maybe you’ll find yourself driving back to eat there again next time!

2. Get your steps in by walking around the mall, and taking the perfect selfie!

SM Aura Premier and SM Megamall are well-known for their vast collection of destination shops, while SM City North EDSA boasts of its Sky Garden and Cyberzone, which has all the latest gadgets and gizmos. If you happen to be at SM Mall of Asia, you can enjoy the picturesque sunset at SM by the Bay while having a cup of coffee or any early dinner. There are a lot of places to discover at SM Supermalls, but if you just want to relax, you can get a massage, a facial, or maybe get your hair and nails done while you wait.

3. Catch up on the latest movie offerings!

Everyone knows watching a movie is the ultimate pastime, so why don’t you catch one while your EV is charging up? SM Cinemas have some of the latest blockbuster hits that you can choose from, with great snacks available at the Snack Bar. If you’re going to wait for your charging EV, spend it by keeping yourself entertained!

4. Shop, shop, shop!

Drop by The SM Store for good finds and great deals; whether it be fashion, lifestyle, or beauty!

Time flies by when you’re having fun, and what’s more fun than going shopping around The SM Store? Browse each floor for everything and anything you’re interested in. Want a new pair of shoes? How about a brand new outfit for the next time you go out with family or friends? Or maybe you’re looking for items to spruce up your home – whatever it is, everything’s at SM!

SM Supermalls has a variety of options to choose from to make waiting more productive and fruitful. Next time you find that you need to charge your EV, head on to your nearest SM mall for an aweSM experience, without wasting a single minute of your time.

SM Supermalls’ EV Charging Stations support The SM Green Movement towards a greener planet. For more information on SM Supermalls’ sustainability efforts and a list of EV Charging Stations, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media accounts.

Empowering Women and Inspiring Change in Davao Light

Woman power …..

Empowering Women and Inspiring Change in Davao Light

Engr. Daisy Vale de Gracia is the project engineer of the soon-to-be 50MVA substation located in Lanang, Davao City. It is now at 85% completion and will meet the growing demand for stable power in the area which includes the new township development in the city, the Davao Park District. She facilitates the implementation of the project and oversees the full scope of electrical construction. Her advice to young women is to “Embrace your passion, trust in your abilities, and defy stereotypes with confidence.”

The sound of Daisy’s safety shoes echoed as they hit the pavement of a 1,651-square-meter lot area under construction. She leads the team inside the walled site where the control building and steel structure of the soon-to-be 50 megavolt-amperes (MVA) substation are being prepared for the arrival and installation of major equipment.

Engr. Daisy Vale de Gracia is the project engineer of this substation of Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (Davao Light) located in a new commercial district in Lanang, Davao City. Now in her eighth year with the company, she is a Senior Engineer under the Substation Design Section of the Power Systems Design Department (PSDD), which manages lines and substation projects of the distribution utility.

Women engineers who lead and handle projects are not new in Davao Light, with Daisy being one of the first few who showed how women can also thrive in a male-dominated industry. Fearlessly continuing to blaze a trail for the next women engineers of the company, Daisy’s independence, courage, and determination were built by life’s trials.

“Losing my mother at the age of 15 was the most challenging moment of my life,” Daisy shared. As the second of five children, Daisy took care of her other siblings while her elder sister was away at college.

“The absence of a maternal figure forced me to become resilient and self-reliant, especially since I was thrust into the responsibility of taking care of my siblings. This shaped me into an individual who values the strength found within oneself.”

Daisy earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and placed 9th in the September 2015 Registered Electrical Engineers Licensure Examination. In 2016, she joined Davao Light at the same time when her father decided to take an early retirement.

“I am grateful to Davao Light because they believe that female engineers can contribute value. With the opportunity given to me, I was able to financially support my siblings’ education together with my other sisters,” she said, adding how she felt relief when her youngest sibling finished her education last year.

Daisy was involved in significant projects early on in her career, having handled the upgrade of Davao Light’s Buhangin Substation, which was her first major project back in 2019. She considers it as the project she feels most proud of. The substation upgrade was completed in 2021 and helped meet the growth and development of the area. It was the company’s first 69kV/13.8kV substation with two 33-MVA power transformers.

Substations and lines are important facilities for power distribution, considered the third and final stage in the delivery of electricity. These facilities receive and lower high transmission voltage for end-users. As a distribution utility, Davao Light has twenty-seven substations with four being fully digital.

Digital substations capture and transmit real-time data, allowing the utility to remotely monitor and have better and faster control of its power systems when necessary. For example, during unscheduled outages, system operation engineers can remotely transfer electrical loads from the affected substation to other nearby substations, helping prevent long power interruptions. In a nutshell, digital substations will improve the availability, reliability, and efficiency of the power supply in the area it serves.

“This substation in Lanang is a full digital substation,” Daisy said. Now at 85% completion, it will meet the growing demand for stable power in the area which includes the new township development in the city, the Davao Park District. Upon completion, Daisy shared that Davao Light will have six fully digital substations in its portfolio, with the other being the upcoming Panabo Substation.

“These celebrations not only recognize the achievements of women across various fields but also serve as powerful reminders of the ongoing work needed to achieve gender equality. These observances are instrumental in driving awareness and inspire collective action to address gender disparities and promote inclusivity.” – Engr. Daisy Vale De Gracia, on her thoughts about the International Women’s Day and National Women’s Month

Aside from handling this vital project, Daisy is also one of those handling Davao Light’s Substation Regulatory Asset Base, which ensures that all substation assets of the company are accounted for. She is also studying environmental-friendly alternatives to circuit breakers, an electrical safety device. This will further Davao Light’s advocacy of environmental protection.

When asked to describe who she is without the title “Engineer,” Daisy answered, “Just an ordinary lady who likes milk tea. I drink milk tea once a week on average. I have a sweet tooth and I like cakes and sweet pastries. I want to learn baking someday.”

Not one to shy away from learning, she is currently pursuing postgraduate studies for personal fulfillment and career advancement. She also recently got married and plans to focus on building her own family.

“Women are powerful because of their ability to break barriers and inspire positive change through their determination, compassion, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world,” she said.