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Rising Tigers Magazine
The most distributed Business & Lifestyle Magazine in the Philippines.
LOOK! 4th Magazine Signing of Rising Tigers Magazine this year held today at National Book Store, SM Megamall with the current featured leaders headed by Editor-in-chief Grace Bondad Nicolas. ![]()
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Featured leaders includes Cory Navarro, Camille Navarro Makasiar, Anna Magkawas, John Calub, Jenny Lin Maaño Ngai, Millet Cruz and Merle Mendoza Balicao. ![]()
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Photography: Jeff Arevalo, Emman Villaluz, Roman Oxales ![]()
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Rising Tigers Magazine 2024
CURRENT EVENTS: US-ASEAN Business Council lauds Budget Chief Secretary Amenah Pangandaman for reforming procurement system![]()
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The US-ASEAN Business Council, the premier advocacy organization for U.S. corporations operating within the ASEAN, lauded Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman for pushing for amendments to the decades-old Government Procurement Reform Act during the 2024 Philippines Business Mission Meeting held in Pasay City. ![]()
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In her opening message, Secretary Pangandaman underscored how Senate Bill No. 2593, or the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA), will make public procurement more attuned to the changing times and responsive to the evolving needs of people. ![]()
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“The NGPA aims to digitalize and streamline the procurement process while paving the way for a greener, more sustainable, transparent, and participatory procurement process,” the Budget Chief said, adding that the Senate Bill has already entered the period of individual amendments on May 15, 2024.![]()
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Secretary Pangandaman also participated in the moderated discussion on public procurement and the national budget, existing public-private partnerships, infrastructure development, and digital transformation in the government. ![]()
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“Your openness to this dialogue is very valuable,” US-ASEAN Business Council Senior Vice President and Regional Managing Director, Ambassador Brian McFeeters told the Secretary. ![]()
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The Budget Chief likewise expressed her commitment to enhancing the local procurement process by expanding the Government Purchase Card (GPC) at the local level. The GPC aims to simplify the procurement of goods and services of local government units by offering an alternative payment solution that features a 30-day revolving credit with full settlement on due date, access to point-of-sale and e-commerce transactions, and electronic statements of account, among others. ![]()
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Meanwhile, in response to an inquiry from a pharmaceutical company, the Budget Chief also reiterated her commitment to supporting the Department of Health’s efforts to combat cervical cancer in the Philippines, specifically through the expansion of the immunization program for women and girls. ![]()
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The Philippines Business Mission is an annual meeting of US-ASEAN Business Council members to the Philippine Government, which serves as a venue for engaging with priority stakeholders and reinforcing U.S.-Philippines business relations and transformational partnerships for economic growth. ![]()
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Other US-ASEAN Business Council members in attendance were Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs Stephen Braim, Chief Representative Florina Vistal, and Country Representative Atty. Herminio Bagro III. ![]()
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The Budget Chief was also joined by DBM Undersecretary for Advocacy, Capacity Development, Economic Affairs, and Stakeholder Relations Margaux Salcedo and Chief Economist Dr. Joselito Basilio.
CURRENT EVENTS: Initial Delivery of Automated Counting Machines for the 2025 Elections Passed the Hardware Acceptance Test![]()
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Intramuros, Manila – All twenty (20) units of Automated Counting Machines (ACM) initially delivered to the Commission on Elections successfully passed the Hardware Acceptance Test (HAT) conducted today, 20 May 2024 at the warehouse in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.![]()
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All ACMs to be delivered by Miru Systems, the automated elections system (AES) provider for the 2025 National and Local Elections, must undergo stringent accuracy testing, such as the HAT, before they can be officially received by the COMELEC headed by Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia. ![]()
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The HAT involves unpacking each box, turning the ACM unit on, and running the different diagnostics to ensure that each and every component is working properly and in accordance with the specifications and customizations as directed by COMELEC.![]()
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The diagnostic test results show that all ACM parts, such as the sensor, touchscreen, scanner, printer, camera, USB ports, LED, external keypad, etc. are passed the appropriate criteria for each component during the HAT.![]()
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Three out of the twenty ACM units were subjected to test configuration to ensure functionality during the end-to-end demonstration at the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) tomorrow, 21 May 2024.
CURRENT EVENTS: Pangandaman: Health workers a priority; commits to fulfilling Health Emergency Allowance arrears*![]()
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Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman underscores the importance of healthcare workers and pledges her dedication to ensuring that arrears of the Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) are fulfilled by the end of 2025 during the public hearing and inquiry of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography on Monday, 20 May 2024.![]()
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“Priority po namin kayo [healthcare workers]. Ang HEA po ay nasa SONA (State of the Nation Address) ng ating Pangulo. Tuwing nagkikita po kami ay pinapaalala po niya 'yan. Ang promise ko po, by 2025, mababayaran po natin 'yan,” stated Sec. Pangandaman.![]()
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To date, the DBM has disbursed a total of P91.283 billion to DOH for the Public Health Emergency Benefits and Allowances (PHEBA), covering all benefits for healthcare workers from 2021 to 2023. Of this amount, P73.261 billion has been allocated specifically for HEA.![]()
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PHEBA includes Special Risk Allowance (SRA), compensation for COVID-19 sickness and death, as well as additional benefits like meals, accommodation, and transportation allowances for healthcare workers.![]()
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During the session, Secretary Pangandaman outlined the DBM’s strategy to tackle the remaining P27.7 billion arrears for the HEA, which was presented by the DOH during a technical budget hearing held earlier this month. The first step involves utilizing a P2.3 billion unprogrammed appropriations (UA) fund, contingent upon the collection of excess revenue.![]()
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“Ipipila po natin ito [sa UA]. Naghihintay nalang po tayo ng certification from the Bureau of Treasury sa excess revenue,” explained Sec. Pangandaman, emphasizing the conditional nature of the UA. Last year, an additional P7 billion, taken from the UA, was released for HEA.![]()
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The DBM will likewise look into the internal budget of DOH and identify possible realignment for the program.![]()
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Sec. Mina also committed that the necessary resources to address the deficiencies in HEA would be prioritized in the drafting of the 2025 National Budget.![]()
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DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, on the other hand, thanked the Senate Committee on Health as well as the DBM for aiding in the resolution of all HEA concerns. “We’ve been able to receive the budget from the DBM from the 2022 and 2023 GAA (General Appropriations Act), and we’ve been able to disburse almost 99%,” mentioned Sec. Herbosa.![]()
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For fiscal year 2024, the DBM has comprehensively released a total of P19.996 billion to the DOH. However, Sec. Herbosa admits that there have been challenges in the disbursement of the fund. “As for the budget this year, nasa 48% palang ang aming disbursement pero nasa amin na, tulad nga sabi ni Sec. Mina.” disclosed Sec. Herbosa.![]()
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The Budget Secretary, meanwhile, urged healthcare worker representatives to collaborate closely with DOH to ensure the smooth implementation and timely disbursement of HEA.![]()
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“Ang implementation po ay nasa DOH. Makipagtulungan po tayo sa DOH para sa tamang listahan (HEA mapping). Through that, makikita lahat ng nagrerequest at nabigyan. Let’s make sure ang mapupuntahan po nito ay sa tamang beneficiaries,” clarified Sec. Pangandaman.![]()
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Senator Bong Go lauded the developments from the meeting. “Ako po ay natutuwa at nagpapasalamat na kapag nagsama ang DBM at DOH sa kanilang obligasyon sa health emergency allowance, magiging posible po ito na matapos po,” said Senate Committee on Health and Demography Chair.
2024 marked the 40th anniversary for one of Asia Pacific’s largest international lodging owner-operators. This momentous occasion looks to its impressive collection of 950 properties across 220 countries around the world for its success. With even more openings just beyond the horizon the global brand shows no signs of slowing down for the years to come.![]()
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As Ascott celebrates its 40th birthday globally, its presence in the Philippines elevates itself to the next level. With its entry back in the year 2000, the Ascott Limited Philippines has grown into a market leader with 32 properties under its portfolio. ![]()
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Demonstrating its dedication to excellence, Ascott welcomes Patrick Vaysse as the new country general manager. Together with the newly appointed Cluster General Managers, Ms. Cecille Teodoro and Mr. Rennan John Reyes, their fresh perspectives and decisive, insightful ideas usher a new era of growth and development for the company. ![]()
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Vaysse brings over 25 years of hospitality experience to the Philippines. As the former COO of the Ascott Limited of Indonesia, his role was pivotal in securing the group’s entry into the full-service hotel industry with the acquisition of the Indonesian hospitality giant Tauzia, with brands such as Préférence, Vertu, Harris, Fox, Yello, Pop. Thrilled to contribute his technical know-how, Vaysse leverages corporate realism, financial acumen, and deep multicultural hospitality experience to elevate the Philippine portfolio. ![]()
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The company has expanded its portfolio in the Philippines to an impressive 32 serviced residences. Following the addition of Vaysse as the Country General Manager, several other properties and brands will look to make their way to the country. “As we continue to expand our reach nationwide, the portfolio looks to grow to over 50 properties by 2028”. He said, “Beyond the well-established serviced residences, we’re also eager to add our full serviced hotels into the ever-growing portfolio here in the Philippines.” ![]()
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Upcoming Properties this 2024 and beyond![]()
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1. Citadines Bacolod City![]()
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With four room types from the Studio to the Two Bedroom Deluxe unit tucked away in a quiet subdivision, the property enjoys peace and privacy without needing to give up any of the urban comforts as the location is also strategically close to commercial spots The Row, Robinsons Place Bacolod, and SM City Bacolod to name a few. The property is also excited to be the next events place of Cebu with pillarless ballrooms that can host up to 600 guests for your next special occasion, and while you’re here, be spoiled for choice and sample any of the five restaurants also opening with the property. Then, complete your Bacolod adventure by visiting The Ruins and Capitol Park Lagoon, which are only a few minutes away from the residences.![]()
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2. Somerset Valero Makati![]()
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Located in the heart of the Makati Central Business District, the property is within a quick 1km jaunt from several outlet malls, such as Greenbelt, Glorietta, and SM Makati, to name a few, while also being within close proximity to Salcedo Park. The residence is also a short drive from Bonifacio Global City and only 8km from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The location is versatile and ideal for guests visiting for business or leisure. The property has five types of rooms, starting from the Studio Deluxe to the Three Bedroom Deluxe units, alongside spacious function spaces to cater to any number of guest requirements. ![]()
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3. Somerset Gorordo Cebu ![]()
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Inspired by New York’s Flatiron Building, which has 155 units and a varied mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. It is innovatively designed and furnished with modern facilities. The property sits close to the Cebu Business Park. As the second property to open in the city after Citadines Cebu City, the residences are ideal for business travelers in the shipping and manufacturing industries. ![]()
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4. Ascott Double Dragon![]()
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Standing on a 5,567-square-meter lot, this upcoming property will house 300 luxury apartment units. Ideal for foreign, corporate, and leisure clients alike, the property is near the Manila Domestic International Airport, Department of Foreign Affairs, Mall of Asia, andEntertainment City. ![]()
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There's much more to look forward to as the property situates itself within 4.8, with much more that can be developed within the area.![]()
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5. Citadines Greenhills![]()
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With a studio and one-bedroom apartment configuration, this 280-unit property is situated within San Juan, Greenhills. The residence stands in a very versatile location, within a very close proximity to the Ortigas Central Business District, the Greenhills Shopping Centre, as well as several schools and hospitals. Complete facilities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and function spaces make it the ideal location for any and every type of guest.![]()
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6. Citadines Paragon Davao![]()
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The opening will be part of an integrated development comprising retail, office, and event spaces. This 250-unit property is not only close to universities and malls but also a 15-minute drive from downtown Davao City and a 45-minute drive to Davao International Airport. The city is undoubtedly one of the Philippines' largest and most developed metropolises, one that is sure to be an attractive tourist and business destination. ![]()
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With studios up to two-bedroom units, this oasis within the city has a breakfast lounge, swimming pool, gymnasium, residents' lounge, and functions room.![]()
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An Exciting Entry into Hotel & Resorts![]()
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1. Preference Siargao![]()
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Looking to open in 2027 with 45 luxurious rooms, this beach and garden villa promises bespoke services and curated amenities. The unique property is specially curated to have a little bit of something for everyone and all. As the first entry into Siargao, the full-service resort is a testament to the group’s continued commitment to evolving their services to better cater to each guest they welcome. ![]()
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2. Citadines Mactan Cebu![]()
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As the group’s entry to the Mactan Islands. The 200-room property will be part of a dynamic mixed-use resort development featuring a restaurant, guest lounge, ballroom, pool, spa, and launderette. With the goal of sharing Ascott’s unique hospitality to Mactan, opening this 2028 serves as the perfect opportunity for keen and discerning travelers who are either familiar or with to get to know the brand better to visit. ![]()
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These openings come aptly timed with Mr. Vaysse's entry to the team as he can share his vast expertise with hotels and resorts to further ensure the seamless and successful opening of the two properties as the group’s first foray into the market.![]()
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Rediscover the Philippines with Ascott Unlimited ![]()
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As a part of the global celebration for the company’s 40thanniversary, embark on the boundless adventures that the Philippines has in store with Ascott Unlimited. With countless opportunities for all involved. Be spoiled for choice with the varied array of properties across the globe. Always be free to curate your stay in style, along with the unconditional, unique, and signature Filipino hospitality known worldwide.