More Complete Online Shopping Experience with New Shopify Partners

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The online community is getting bigger and wider nowadays, and with the help of the rampant pace of social media and technological enhancements such as hi-tech gadgets and online apps to simplify business, it comes to no surprise that even online shopping is now a trend. Entrepreneurs that delved into the eCommerce industry are currently trying to market their brand and products or services they offer the best and most efficient way they can.

Last year, Globe myBusiness has established a solid partnership with Shopify - the number one eCommerce platform in the world. With Shopify enabling business owners to have their own online shop and business eCommerce management platform, this gives opportunity to expand their business without the hassle. In case you find it difficult to set up your shop, Top Shopify developer NZ can help you out.This last quarter of the year, they will be offering new add-ons for Globe myBusiness customers through their partnerships with logistics services (Xend), design and set-up services (Ropo), digital advertising services (AdSpark) and payment services.

Aside from Globe myBusiness partnering up with several existing customers to set-up their store inside Globe Gen3 stores around the metro, the existing Shopify sellers no longer need to look for external agencies for services such as the aforementioned add-ons. Everything in the eCommerce world that every SME would need, Shopify has them. It’s an all-in-one package for all Globe myBusiness customers.

Aligned with the Globe purpose, Globe myBusiness is definitely making businesses flourish. Their partnership with Shopify, Xend, Ropo and AdSpark strengthens the business customers by creating an avenue for them to feature their products in a more diversified digital platform.

Neon Island, a Filipino online clothing store founded in 2013 by Aira Medina and Chi Gibbs, together with Craft Carrot Art Tools, Inc., a provider of quality art materials and craft supplies for professional artists, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts, are one of the businesses that is featured during WWG at the ICONIC store in BGC, Taguig City. They are able to maintain the small footprint thanks to Shopify. Their inventory is properly stowed and accounted for using the eCommerce app. Selling their products are simplified using a tablet for browsing products to closing the deal.

“The main objective of this project is to reiterate the company’s advocacy to help improve the lives of every Filipino. Through this project, we are able to help our SME consumers / customers to have a better marketing strategy to promote their brand,” said Barbie Dapul, Globe myBusiness VP. “And what better way to market their brand but to put them at one of Globe Telecom’s biggest event of the year - the WWG.” Dapul added.

Shopify, the number one eCommerce platform in the world partnered with Globe myBusiness to help the SMEs tap the eCommerce industry, has launched the smallest store project with other business partners’ stalls in all Gen3 stores and its surrounding locations.

Globe Telecom Completes TV White Space Trials to Improve Internet Connectivity

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The first Philippine telecommunications company to adopt the TV white space frequency for broadband use, Globe Telecom has successfully completed a TV white space trial for wireless backhaul.

“The TV White Space provides us with another means to bridge the Digital Divide in remote rural areas where traditional means of backhaul such as fiber or multi-hop microwave terrestrial backhaul does not make it economically viable for telecommunication providers to deploy broadband facilities,” Globe Senior Vice President for Network Technologies Strategy Emmanuel Estrada said.

Estrada said the trials were in support of the company’s bid to maximize available spectrum given rapid increases in data consumption as it aims to improve the internet experience of its customers. The trials were undertaken in partnership with the Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology over the last 8 months in several areas in the country including Cebu and Bohol, Estrada said.

The trial run was undertaken by Globe in partnership with NuRAN Wireless Inc., a Canadian-based leading supplier of mobile and broadband wireless solutions. During the trials, NuRAN’s equipment generated up to 10 Mbps over distances of 7 and 12 kilometers. With the achievement of this important milestone, NuRAN will begin rolling out units in 2016 for broadband public access.

TV White Space refers to the unused TV channels between the active ones in the VHF and UHF spectrum. These are typically referred to as the “buffer” channels. In the past, these buffers were placed between active TV channels to protect broadcasting interference. It has since been researched and proven that this unused spectrum can be used to provide broadband Internet access while operating harmoniously with surrounding TV channels. Utilizing TV white space for propagation of internet service is a relatively new technology as TV broadcast began transitioning from analog to digital, which paved the way for the availability of more TV channels or frequencies that could be utilized for broadband use. NuRAN’s technology focuses on UHF bands from 470 to 698 MHz.

Once in place, the technology is expected to provide an alternative wireless network that will provide data connectivity in far flung areas in Visayas and Mindanao. Estrada said increasing demand for wireless data traffic and growing pressure to network capacity has spurred an interest to utilize these unallocated portions of the radio spectrum. The TV white space’ long range of reach means utilization of this frequency for broadband use would require less number of cell sites to provide coverage for a given geographic location compared with existing wireless technologies, he said. This means that the use of the TV white space spectrum for propagation of broadband technologies is more cost efficient for telco providers.

Globe Telecom Joins Sustainable Global Companies With Its New Purpose

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Going beyond achieving business success as the Philippines leading mobile communications provider, Globe Telecom is embarking on a purpose-led transformation for a more sustainable organization, steps that admirable companies globally have likewise taken.

Globe president and CEO Ernest Cu unveiled the company's purpose of 'Treating people right to create a Globe of Good' at the recent Wonderful World of Globe XII event held at the Globe Iconic Store in Bonifacio Global City.

Anchored on its new corporate vision of leading a Philippines where families’ dreams come true, businesses flourish and the nation is admired, the company hopes to fulfill its vision by creating wonderful experiences, helping its customers overcome challenges and discovering new ways to enjoy life, Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu revealed.

Following its massive network modernization program in 2011, Globe saw unprecedented business growth driven by game-changing initiatives including a digital lifestyle play, innovative offers and content partnerships with iconic global brands. Underpinning business growth is a robust network that has nationwide 3G and 4G coverage. Globe is also aggressively rolling out LTE coverage in major business districts and key commercial areas in the country, intending to give the country first world mobile internet experience.

“Our 60% share in mobile data revenues showcases the relevance that we have brought to the industry. We’ve changed the way people consume mobile content in this country because we have made it accessible, affordable and convenient for customers to subscribe to fantastic services. In music for instance, people are now more inclined to do streaming rather than torrenting,” said Cu.

Not content with being an industry leader and game-changer, Globe is taking its performance and impact to its customers to a higher level. “How do we take it to the next step? Early this year, we decided to take on an infinite goal. Reaching a desired market share and beating competition are finite concepts. We have decided to create a new purpose which will redefine Globe in the years to come,” he declared.

“How can we treat people right? By giving them wonderful experiences, giving them choices, helping them overcome challenges and solving their problems, making their life easier, helping them enjoy life more, giving them great customer service, treating them the way we want to be treated and helping them make their dreams come true,” he explained.

For instance, “despite all the constraints, Globe continues to strive to provide first world internet in country. This is why the company is undertaking an aggressive expansion of its network infrastructure and capacities using long-idle frequencies such as the 700 megahertz (MHz) band in a bid to significantly improve the internet experience of its customers,” said Cu. He emphasized Globe is maximizing the use of these idle 700 MHz band in fulfillment of its commitment to the National Telecommunications Commission to improve the overall internet experience of its customers.

Parallel to this, Globe also began rolling out a capacity expansion program for its corporate data network to address the bandwidth requirement of its enterprise clients as they make use of various data solutions to improve business efficiency, enhance productivity, and boost competitiveness, Cu disclosed. In an effort to create an internet superhighway nationwide, Globe also plans to extensively deploy fiber optics to make home broadband experience at par with mobile internet or even better. To date, the country is facing challenges in delivering fast and reliable wireline internet experience due to lack of fiber connectivity owing to right of way and permitting issues with the local government. Globe hopes to work closely with the government to address these issues in order to jumpstart ICT development in the Philippines.

Cu stressed the company’s new purpose is expected to further enhance the company’s circle of happiness philosophy: that happy and engaged employees deliver wonderful customer experiences and strong business growth for happy shareholders. He said that when employees are committed to serve customers, this translates to a strong brand experience that people love and connect with.

Philippine Volcanoes Meet & Greet at Pioneer Street Market

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Our Philippine national rugby team who are more popularly known as the Philippine Volcanoes recently had a meet and greet with fans at one of the newest foodie haven called Pioneer Street Market located inside the compounds of HMR.

The big guys of this Rugby team can be prominently seen with all those huge muscles and posterior, while the few women composing the female team are also physically buffed and ready to face any opponent in the ultimate aim to win the games they will compete in.

Since I was late in arriving due to the rush hour time of the event, I managed to appreciate only the challenges given to the players after the press conference. They had a Monster Burger eating challenge, and a Beer Drinking challenge, for fun where the emerging winners are still from the Men's team.

We also indulged on the yummy Peri-Peri Chicken meals served by Fuego Amigo along with iced tea as we listened to the husband and wife team providing entertainment with their songs.

I also had the opportunity to dine on the famous Auntie May's Angus Beef Salpicao along with their thirst-quenching lemonade, and brought home a Monster Burger with one huge Australian beef patty. I personally witnessed how it was actually cooked and prepared with all the garnishing from start to finish.

Yamaha Launches TFX 150: The Fierce Xperience

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Yamaha has just launched its TFX 150: The Fierce Xperience. The much awaited Yamaha M-Slaz in Thailand is now released in the Philippines as Yamaha TFX 150. The said unit has been so popular in most South East Asian countries especially in Thailand. Even Yamaha Philippines is also receiving a lot of inquiries about this unit ever since it was released in Thailand.

And now, the long wait is over. Spread the good news to all our fellow riders, now that Yamaha Philippines has formally launched the TFX 150 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall on September 24, 2016.

Opening the event was a dance mob presentation by a group of award-winning dancers who gave two performance before and after the program activities on stage including the discussion of the specifications of the TFX 150 motorbike which comes in two designs.

An impressive stunt show and exclusive media test ride featuring the TFX 150 motorbike was also conducted at SM By The Bay Central Park. Members of the media also got the chance to participate in all activities prepared for the day.

I have to say I was impressed on the capabilities of the TFX 150 motorbike during the stunt show as riders exhibited its speed, power and easy handling. 

Privacy Commission Advisory on Yahoo Breach

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The National Privacy Commission (NPC), an independent body mandated to administer and implement the Data Privacy Act of 2012, and to monitor and ensure compliance of the country with international standards set for data protection, would like to reiterate the recommendations of Yahoo and cybersecurity experts to Yahoo users to change their passwords on their Yahoo accounts.

This follows after the compromise of half million user accounts from Yahoo’s servers in 2014 that was only discovered and confirmed by Yahoo this week. Below is what was posted on Yahoo’s email log-in page about the Account Security issue :

“We have confirmed, based on a recent investigation, that a copy of certain user account information was stolen from our network in late 2014 by what we believe is a state-sponsored actor. The account information may have included names, email addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, hashed passwords (the vast majority with bcrypt) and, in some cases, encrypted or unencrypted security questions and answers. “

Other than changing their Yahoo log-in credentials, the NPC also recommends that Yahoo users change log-in credentials of their other online accounts where they might have used their Yahoo email for account verification purposes. The security questions on Yahoo might also have been compromised and it would be a good idea to revise the security questions or disable that feature. The NPC also recommends activating two-part authentication to gain first time access to your account. Two-part authentication uses a phone number you provided to verify your identity.

Jollibee Launches its First Mobile App Using Augmented Reality

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Kids nowadays belong to the digital generation who could easily learn how to use gadgets and technology. I sometimes find myself getting overwhelmed by the amount of information and adaptability they show in learning how to use new devices in terms of both hardware and software.

Thus, it is not surprising that many companies are now going with the trend since it is the inevitable direction for all especially if we want to belong among those moving forward with the use of technology in most of our activities, may it be at our home, schools or offices. Doing everything from work and learning to entertainment and leisure now involves taking advantage of what technology has to offer.

One of the most popular technological advancement is the proliferation of mobile apps for just about everything from office productivity tools to fun and games. These mobile apps have changed how we do almost everything and whether we would admit it or not, we have embraced its power for our benefit.

Jollibee, the country’s number one fast-food chain, is equally jumping into the bandwagon by recently unveiling its first-ever mobile application called JolliDance Showdown app that is sure to be a hit among Jollibee fans of all ages.

The big reveal held on September 24, 2016 at Ascott Hotel in Bonifacio Global City made public the all-new mobile app that was developed by renowned Los Angeles-based mobile innovation agency, Trigger. The agency has produced applications for other clients like Sony Pictures, Lionsgate Entertainment, and Lucas Film.

DOE Empowers Students to Champion Energy in Their Respective Campuses

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Recognizing students as powerful agents of change, the Department of Energy (DOE) has reinforced its linkage with the academe by establishing a Consumer Education Program (CEP) through its Consumer Welfare and Promotion Office (CWPO), which aims to create greater awareness and understanding about sources of energy while bringing the DOE closer to the public.

Recently, the DOE opened its doors to various student groups. Engr. Arwin Ardon, President and CEO of PNOC-Renewables Corp. introduced basic electricity concepts, safety tips and initiated exercises for the students to work on.

To better comprehend electricity and its usage in practical terms, there were lectures on the dynamics of the power market, such as how trading in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market affects electricity pricing.

The DOE’s energy labelling program was explained by two technical experts, Engrs. Eduardo Fernandez and Isagani Soriano.

The photo above shows DOE-Director for Energy Research and Testing Laboratory Services Amelia de Guzman introducing the energy sector to students of STI College.

A technical tour was conducted for the students at the DOE-Lighting and Appliance Testing Laboratory (LATL) within the Energy Center, where the performance of household appliances and lighting devices is tested and labeled according to their efficiency ratings. 

Great Roots, Greater Fruits Parenting Summit

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Rotary Mutya ng Pasig holds first “Great Roots, Greater Fruits” Parenting Summit Saturday program features key resource speakers Pasig City, Metro Manila, September 19, 2016 — Thousands of parents from Pasig City and nearby areas are expected to come to the first “Great Roots, Greater Fruits” Parenting Summit at the Pasig City Sports Complex this Saturday, September 24.

This event aims to help parents get a better understanding of how to raise their children properly through informative discussions from key resource speakers. RC Mutya ng Pasig All-Star President (ASP) Michelle Ballesteros emphasizes the importance of this event in helping parents develop future leaders: “Our vision is to educate and disseminate information on how to properly bring up children in this generation to prepare them as leaders.”

ASP Ballesteros also “With today’s technology that might serve as walls between the parents and their children, we need different approaches on how to train our children for the future.”

Looking forward to future summits, the club’s head said that there are plans to hold it in other cities around Metro Manila and in Luzon by next year with local government units, parenting experts, and private partners who will help parents to understand and develop responsible Filipinos.

The Great Roots, Greater Fruits Parenting Summit is a collaborative event of the Rotary Club of Mutya ng Pasig (District 3800). The City Government of Pasig, Unleash International Corporation, Ex-Link Events and supported by Landbank of the Philippines, Citibank and other private organizations believing and supporting its vision.

About Rotary Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders dedicated to tackling the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members of more than 34,000 Rotary clubs in over 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work impacts lives at both the local and international levels, from helping families in need in their own communities to working toward a polio-free world. For more information, visit Rotary.org.

Porsche, Audi and Toyota Stage Exciting Show in Texas Heat

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Despite the day’s stifling heat, the 2016 6 Hours of Circuit of The Americas lived up to its promise to provide spectators with a thrilling show. The race kicked off at 5pm local time with the air and ground temperatures standing at 35°C and 45°C respectively. The first four hours were dominated by Audi Sport, while the final third provided an exciting battle between all three LM P1-H teams.

Porsche Team went on to take the victory, assisted by the strategy of the N°1 919 Hybrid (Bernhard/Hartley/Webber) which took advantage of a Full Course Yellow interruption to ease into the lead. Audi Sport came second with the N°8 R18 of Di Grassi/Duval/Jarvis (who very nearly retired), and Toyota Gazoo Racing came third with the N°6 TS050 Hybrid (Sarrazin/Conway/Kobayashi). The latter was helped by its drivers’ ability to double-stint their MICHELIN ‘SOFT Hot Weather’ tyres during the evening, whereas their rivals ran the ‘Hot Weather Plus’ compound early on.

After dominating Friday’s qualifying, the two Audi R18sgot away to a strong start and, after a short scrap with Porsche, managed to pull out a gap during the opening hour, leaving Porsche and Toyota to battle in their wake. The two German teams opted for the MICHELIN ‘SOFT Hot Weather Plus’ compound, while Toyota preferred the MICHELIN ‘SOFT Hot Weather’ option.By the start of the second hour, the order seemed to be well established, with the Audi R18s lapping two seconds apart, the two Porsches more than half-a-minute back and the Toyotas gradually losing ground.

This situation lasted around an hour until Toyota Gazoo Racingchose to stay on the same tyres after its third refuelling stop which took place during a Full Course Yellow interruption. The time saved allowed it to re-join in a stronger position. By this time, however, Audi Sport had established a handsome lead which it defended until the 100-lap mark…