Globe 1Q revenue growth at record level P31.1 Bln; up 4% on-year

Globe Telecom closed the first three months of 2017 with record-level consolidated service revenues of P31.1 billion, 4% higher than same period last year’s P30.0 billion, and P62 million higher than prior quarter’s all-time high revenues. 

The sustained solid revenue growth across all data-related segments, as well as the continued subscriber expansion for both mobile and broadband, led to this period’s strong performance. This was likewise aided by the company’s game-changing initiatives including a digital lifestyle play, innovative offers, and content partnerships with iconic global brands, backed by robust 3G and 4G networks nationwide. 

“We are seeing encouraging improvements this quarter, despite the temporary setback on profits as we continue to lay down the foundation to secure sustainable growth in the future. Our continued aggressive network modernization and upgrades using the latest technologies are all geared towards enhancing our internet services, so that our customers can have a wonderful and seamless connectivity,” Globe President & CEO Ernest Cu said. 

Mobile revenues stood at P23.8 billion as of end-March 2017, up 3% year-on-year, from the P23.1 billion reported a year ago. This was mainly attributed to the continued strong data consumption as more customers adopt the digital lifestyle. TM, the company’s mass-market brand, registered 7% revenue growth from last year, while Globe Prepaid revenues posted 3% improvement from 2016. Globe Postpaid revenues on the other hand, was flat year-on-year. Globe Telecom’s mobile subscriber base reached 58.6 million for the first three months of the year, up 2% from the 57.3 million subscribers reported in the same period of 2016. 

On a product perspective, mobile data remains the biggest contributor to total mobile revenues, now reaching 42% as of the first three months of the year. Mobile data service revenues registered close to P10.0 billion for the three-month period just ended, or 8% higher than the P9.2 billion reported a year ago. Mobile data traffic grew 84% from 71 petabytes (PB) in the first three months of 2016 to 131 petabytes (PB) this period, as smartphone penetration now reached 63%. The continuous ramp up of data traffic and smartphone penetration only proves that Globe remains to be the network of choice of mobile data users. Mobile voice declined by 3% year-on-year while SMS increased by 3%. 

The Globe home broadband business likewise showed consistent growth year-on-year, registering a total of P3.8 billion revenues as of end-March this year, up 9% from the P3.5 billion reported a year ago. Home broadband’s robust revenue performance was boosted by the continued subscriber expansion, which now reached 1.19 million as of the first three months of 2017. This was likewise aided by the strong take-up of home broadband’s latest plans and bundles which caters to the growing demand for lifestyle and entertainment-driven connectivity requirements such as video, gaming, information, commerce, shopping, and banking. 

Globe Telecom’s corporate data business improved by 7% at P2.5 billion as of end March this year, higher from the P2.4 billion posted in the same period of 2016. This was mainly attributed to the rising demand for data connectivity, impacting customer base expansion, circuit count increase and higher usage. Traditional fixed line voice revenues however, posted a decline of 2% from same period last year. The company’s record-level consolidated EBITDA stood at P13.3 billion, up 2% from same period last year. Total operating expenses and subsidy grew by 5% year-on-year to reach P17.8 billion from P17.0 billion last year, as Globe continued to invest in its data networks and support the growing subscriber base. EBITDA margin was at 43%, lower than the 44% margin reported a year ago but still higher compared to the 40% recorded in the fourth quarter of 2016. 

Despite the sustained topline and EBITDA growth, the impact of higher interest expenses and depreciation charges from its network infrastructure investments, as well as the company’s share in equity losses and spectrum amortization related to the SMC telco asset purchase, weighed down Globe Telecom’s net income. Net income for the period declined 13% to only P3.8 billion from the P4.3 billion reported in the same period of 2016, as the charges related to the SMC telco asset purchase were not present in last year’s levels. The company’s core net income, which excludes the impact of non-recurring charges, and foreign exchange and mark-to-market charges, likewise declined by 12% year-on-year to reach only P3.7 billion from P4.2 billion in the first quarter of 2016.

Cell phones, chargers seized at NAIA

Mobile phones and chargers brought in by an airline passenger who could not produce the required import permit were seized by agents of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) on May 1 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 in Pasay City.

Deputy Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, head of the BOC’s Enforcement Group, said that Chen Haibi, a Chinese national, flew in from Guangzhou, China on May 1 on a Philippine Airlines flight carrying with him 100 pieces of Nokia 3310 cell phones and chargers worth P400,000.

“The suspect failed to declare his importation and the required documents such as an import permit from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) which led to the seizure of the shipment,” Nepomuceno said.

Maj. Jaybee Raul Cometa, head of Customs X-ray Inspection Project recommended the issuance of a Warrant Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the cargo for violation of an NTC Memorandum Circular and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, citing its lack of an import permit and Haibi’s failure to declare its contents.

An NTC provision states that no person or entity can purchase, sell, retail and/or resell mobile phones, including parts and accessories, without a valid Mobile Phone Dealer (MPD)/ Mobile Phone Retailer/Reseller (MPRR) Registration Certificate.

BOC chief Nicanor Faeldon reminded local and foreign travellers as well as foreign businessmen to be always mindful of customs laws when bringing in goods into the country. 

At the same time, he warned that Customs regulations continue to be strictly enforced, with violators facing the subsequent penalties.

The mobile phones and chargers are now in the custody of the BOC for proper disposition.

Globe, UC hold PRISM digital literacy training program for teachers in the Visayas

Globe PRISM participants in Cebu

Globe Telecom, in partnership with the University of Cebu (UC), held recently the culminating activity for the Visayas leg of PRISM, a digital literacy training program designed to equip private school teachers with technological skills for effective classroom teaching.

This is in line with Globe Telecom’s sustainability commitment to empower every Filipino with world-class learning through technology in response to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 to “ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning.”

“These days, it is imperative for teachers to learn how to use information and communications technology (ICT) tools in the classroom if they want to motivate students to learn and to help increase their skills for entrepreneurship and employment. The changing times mean that teachers need to continuously adapt to their evolving role. Through this program, we are assisting the teachers in discovering new ways in which they can foster creative and critical thinking among the students,” said Michelle Tapia, Globe Advisor and Head of Education Strategy & Innovation.

The partnership with the University of Cebu has proved to be a natural fit, sharing the same vision in technology’s critical role in the 21st century. Dr. Anna Liza B. Son, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of UC said: “We are happy to host the Visayas leg of PRISM. UC, one of the leading universities in the region, continues to democratize quality education guided by the core values of innovation, camaraderie, alignment, respect and excellence (ICARE). As education becomes increasingly competitive, UC believes that ICT is a catalyst to respond effectively to society’s demands. This challenge has steered the university to implement a number of initiatives related to ICT. Our mission is to equip our teachers with knowledge, skills and desirable attitudes on technology utilization which will benefit the educational system. We firmly believe that if we train and develop our people, this will reflect in the quality of graduates that we produce.”

The pressing need for digital learning skills prompted Globe early this year to reach out to 1,000 educators from all over the country. Of the number, 140 teachers came from the Visayas region. The program was participated by representatives from the University of Cebu, Cebu International School, Holy Name University, Negros Mission Academy, Sacred Heart School- Ateneo de Cebu, Sacred Heart School- Hijas de Jesus, Santa Isabel International School, St. Joseph College, University of Negros Occidental- Recoletos, University of San Carlos, University of St. La Salle, St. Paul University Dumaguete, and Silliman University. 

Through PRISM, the selected teachers underwent a three-week professional development program conducted by Globe. It included a two-day immersive bootcamp, distance project-based learning, and personalized coaching. A key component of the program is the Brightspace Integrated Learning Platform where the teachers underwent distance learning for three weeks with access to the global Brightspace Community and multimedia resources to guide them through the learning process as well as a seamless platform to collaborate with learning coaches and teachers in real time. For the culminating activity, the teachers were invited to showcase various projects on technology-enabled instruction and content development.

PRISM is supported by Globe myBusiness whose mission is to help transform Philippine schools and empower every Filipino with world-class learning through technology. “We want to create a better education system through an ecosystem of enablers. We want to impact the lives of the students in the best way that we can. But first, we have to train the teachers on the effective use of technology to encourage 21st century learning in the classroom,” said Derrick Heng, Senior Advisor, Globe myBusiness Group.

Teachers who attended the PRISM Digital Literacy Program were nominated by both Globe and the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC). The PEAC National Secretariat processed the nominations submitted by schools nationwide while a Vetting Committee, composed of two (2) representatives from the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA), a DepEd Regional Director, and the PEAC Executive Director, was set in place to closely vet the nominated teachers.

PRISM was earlier conducted in Metro Manila and Naga City while Pampanga and Cagayan de Oro City will follow within the first half of the year. 

Technology alone can’t protect your business against cyber threats – ePLDT

Due to the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), information is being collected at an unprecedented rate, with much of it being highly personal and confidential. It is because of this that cybersecurity is of much greater importance today.

Angel Redoble

ePLDT, an industry-leading provider of digital business solutions to enterprises in the Philippines, is warning local companies that employing data security software and hardware is not enough to combat cyber-threats. This is according to its newly appointed head of cybersecurity.

“Companies that focus on data security technology alone unfortunately do not understand cybersecurity,” said Angel Redoble, Chief Information Security Officer of ePLDT. 

“Because a single attack can affect every department of a company, cybersecurity therefore should be approached holistically by integrating it in every aspect, not just in technology. To do this, a company must first focus on having a strict protocol or process and must have the right people who are skilled to combat different kinds of threats. Once these are integrated with the appropriate technology, a company can achieve business resiliency.”

This crucial insight follows on the heels of Ernst & Young’s Global Information Security Survey of 2016 and 2017 which reveals that 64% of 1,735 firms surveyed, which includes Philippine companies, admitted that they have zero or mere informal threat intelligence programs. Moreover, 42% do not have an agreed communications strategy or plan in place in the event of a significant attack.

A security process or program provides the framework for keeping a company at a desired security level by assessing the risks, deciding how to mitigate them, and planning on how to keep programs and practices up to date. ePLDT notes that this is where most companies fail because they only treat cybersecurity as technology or software.

“The hundreds of thousands of vulnerabilities that are recorded every day plus the evolving hacking methods just goes to show that like a process, cybersecurity is a never-ending journey and should be evolved to mitigate & manage new threats,” said Redoble.

Data security skills on the other hand are also crucial since a skilled workforce can identify and therefore understand how to handle the vast majority of threats to data, like malware or hackers seeking confidential information.

Redoble recognizes that some institutions do not employ cybersecurity because of financial constraints but also notes that this should not stop them because the tradeoffs are more than beneficial for a company’s performance and existence. 

“Thanks to growing trends, not deploying cybersecurity is and will become more costly in the future. Companies who are serious about surviving must place it as a business imperative as a single attack can break any business.”

Fortunately due to the current trends and developments in cybersecurity, businesses can now achieve the process, technology, and skills to uphold security through inexpensive means. By administering an assessment of their current capabilities, a company can already set certain protocols while the lack of skills problem can be addressed by teaching the staff how to recognize an attack.

With regards to technology, Redoble notes that there are various data security measures that are being offered subscription-based. However, applying these three may leave a company’s in-house I.T. department drained and will lead them to focus on security rather than boosting productivity. As a solution, Redoble recommends to partner with an end-to-end data security provider.

As a leader in data security services in the country, ePLDT’s Cyber Security portfolio is a suite of services that cover devices, systems, processes, and expertise, designed to defend enterprises from multiple security risks, evolving threats, and malicious software attacks. The portfolio is further boosted by ePLDT’s vast infrastructure network due to its 9 state-of-the art data centers and is recognized internationally through its ISO 27001:2005 Information Security Management System (ISMS) certification.

To know more about ePLDT’s cybersecurity offerings, visit www.epldt.com/solutions/cyber-security/.

Globe Future Makers

Be a #GlobeFutureMaker and get a chance to have mentorship and grant support for your innovative solutions that can help address social issues caused by poverty. Doing a #GlobeOfGood can change the nation. Visit www.globefuturemakers. com to apply or nominate a #GlobeFutureMaker

Amaia Skies Shaw tops off North Tower in Mandaluyong

Amaia Skies Shaw North Tower

Amaia Skies Shaw North Tower recently held a topping off ceremony to signify that the construction of its North tower has reached the highest point. This means that the Mandaluyong property will soon open its doors to new residents.

The event was attended by the Makati Development Corporation (MDC) BuildPlus team, design partners and key officials from Amaia Land Corp.

“We are very excited that the North Tower has finally been topped off. This means completion is only a few months away, and that Amaia Skies Shaw will soon roll out the welcome mat to its new homeowners,” said Joel Punzalan, Amaia GEO head for North Luzon.

The North Tower is the first building of the two-tower Amaia Skies Shaw, which is located on Shaw Boulevard cor. Samat Street, in Barangay Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City.

Strategically located in the heart of Metro Manila, Amaia Skies Shaw makes its residents close to the Metro Rail Transit system (MRT) and other public transportation like jeepneys, buses, and shuttle services.

Inside the model unit

The Mandaluyong project is also near schools and universities, recreational centers, the Ortigas central business district, the Makati central business district, and commercial hubs like EDSA Central, Starmall, Shangri-La Plaza, and SM Megamall.

From left: Royce Regala, Amaia area manager; Joel Punzalan, Amaia GEO head for N. Luzon; Raizel Matibag Amaia project dev manager for North of M. Manila; Kathy Mamaril, Amaia sales GEO head for M. Manila; Engr. Jenilyn Figueroa, MDC BuildPlus QA Head; Engr. Jose Carlo Chavez, PIC for Amaia Skies Shaw; Ching Higino, Amaia sales GEO head for N. Luzon; Janine Miranda, Amaia labor relations officer and Augusto Baet, operation center head.

With 34 residential floors, Amaia Skies Shaw offers 1,348 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, all telephone- and cable-ready, fully equipped with sprinkler systems and emergency lights, kitchen sinks with base cabinets, complete toilet and bath fixtures, and provisions for washer/dryer.

For recreation, residents of Amaia Skies Shaw can head to The Deck amenity area, which features a swimming pool, a garden, and a multi-function hall. They may also check out the stalls at the project’s future retail area.

With Amaia Land’s vision of providing modern and affordable condo living to Filipino families, prospective homeowners can opt for various flexible payment methods.

Work visa scam ripped off Filipino migrants: NZ officials

By Philippine News Agency

New Zealand immigration officials admitted Tuesday that they had only touched the surface of an elaborate immigration scam that ripped of migrant Filipino workers.

Loraine Jayme, a dual Filipino-New Zealand national, had pleaded guilty to 284 charges involving multiple fraudulent work visa applications submitted by Filipinos seeking work in the New Zealand dairy industry, said the government’s Immigration New Zealand (INZ) agency.

“Jayme systematically ripped off vulnerable migrant workers,” INZ assistant general manager Peter Devoy said in a statement.

“Although these charges are very serious, we believe they only represent the tip of the iceberg of Jayme’s offending.”

Jayme was charged in October 2015 after INZ staff verifying visa applications identified anomalies in visa applications and a farmer reported migrants claiming he had offered them work without his knowledge.

The investigation was far reaching, but the prosecution focused on five non-existent dairy farms and fictitious employers created by Jayme through a complex series of forged documents, submitted to both INZ and other New Zealand agencies, said Devoy.

She fabricated job offer letters and employment agreements, including false farm vacancy requests, in order to obtain letters confirming the unavailability of suitably qualified New Zealanders.

Jayme admitted charges of forgery, using a forged document, deception and supplying false or misleading information to an immigration officer.

She was sentenced to 11 months and two weeks home detention and 180 hours community work.

Advisory : PAL tells passengers: Be at airport 5 hours before departure

MANILA - Philippine Airlines on Tuesday advised passengers of international flights to be at the airport up to five hours before departure in anticipation of long lines at immigration counters.

"Please come early in anticipation of long immigration lines," the flag carrier said.

Immigration officers have gone on mass leave to protest alleged non-payment of overtime work.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre, who said more than 30 personnel have resigned and 50 others are on leave, admitted that the problem may extend until the Holy Week.

Read full advisory below:

"Tinatawagan ng pansin ang mga pasahero ng Philippine Airlines na paalis patungong ibang bansa:  

Sikaping makarating sa airport (NAIA Terminal 2) para makapag-check-in sa inyong flight ng apat hanggang limang (4-5) oras bago ang takdang oras ng lipad dahil sa kakulangan ng tauhan sa Immigration counters na nagdudulot ng mahabang pila. 

Agahan po ang pagpunta sa airport dahil mahaba ang pila sa Immigration. 

Salamat po."

Manila International Aviation Authority (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal insisted, however, that they have a "contingency plan" to ensure normal operation despite the mass leave.

Get Your Tickets to Lea Salonga’s Star-Studded Concert with the Next Disney Princess

Everyone knows Lea Salonga as the Disney Legend who provided the vocals of Disney Princesses Jasmine and Fa Mulan in Aladdin and Mulan. Apart from her work with the Walt Disney Company, she has stunned audiences worldwide for her Tony Award-winning runs in Broadway and the West End for her role as Kim in Miss Saigon, and both Eponine and Fantine in Les Miserables. Now, the legend is crowning a new Disney Princess at the upcoming Disney Princess: I Dare to Dream gala concert!

The concert is the finale of Globe Studios’ I Dare to Dream, a first-of-its-kind, digital reality series in collaboration with Disney and Maker Studios, that will search for the next Disney Princess from a group of six young girls. Salonga will award the winner during the event, and will headline the concert featuring Disney classics.

“Globe has always committed itself to creating original digital content to complement the brand’s fast internet speeds, and the rapidly-changing ways Filipinos are consuming entertainment,” says Executive Producer and Globe Retail Transformation and Stores Management Advisor Joe Caliro. “But we feel an initiative of this magnitude shouldn’t end digitally. We want to end it with a bang, with a live concert featuring Lea Salonga and the country’s best singers.”

Apart from Salonga, the star-studded concert will also performances with Christian Bautista, KC Concepcion, Erik Santos, Julie Ann San Jose, Sam Concepcion, Morissette Amon, Aicelle Santos, Tippy Dos Santos, and Janina Vela.

I Dare to Dream is inspired by Disney Princesses, whose stories have moved both children and adults throughout the years. For the show, Globe Studios handpicked six young girls out of hundreds who auditioned, whose personalities and values reflect that of Disney princesses. The six girls will stay in one house and undergo fun challenges while enjoying a mentorship program.

The six selected girls are Sirach Catipay, an aspiring chef who wants to share the world’s cuisines with the Filipino people; Stephanie Jordan, a singing competition contestant who wants to enter the world of hosting; Hyacinth Leonado, who dreams of becoming a Broadway singer and actress;Jaden Narvios, who wants to be the president of the Philippines; Liana San Diego, who wants to be a veterinarian; and Alexi Tan, who dreams of becoming an animator.

The girls will be mentored by Ms. Salonga, along with experts in the respective fields the girls dream of entering: chef Jessie Sincioco, YouTuber and host Charisma Star, theater actress Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, social educator Efren Peñaflorida, veterinarian Dr. Nielsen Donato, and animator Tito Romero. The girls will be joined by vlogger Janina Vela, who will serve as the guiding elder sister.

“I Dare to Dream hopes to inspire girls that there are other young ladies like them, who do not necessarily fit in any of society’s molds,” ends Caliro. “It hope to show that one day, you can share the stage with someone like Lea Salonga and turn your dreams into a reality.”

The winner will also have the chance to take the trip of a lifetime: to walk the red carpet premiere of the upcoming live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast in Tokyo, Japan.

The I Dare to Dream concert will be held on March 22, 2017 at the SM MOA Arena. Tickets are available for purchase at www.smtickets.com. 

You can fully experience the magic of Disney Princess: I Dare To Dream on www.idaretodream.ph.

All Globe Prepaid, TM, Postpaid, and Globe At Home customers can avail of 10% discount on the tickets. Text GLOBEIDTD to 2363 to get the code. All Disney 129 & 299 customers will automatically receive a unique code from Globe to avail a 15% discount on the ‘I Dare To Dream’ concert tickets. Promo period is until March 19.

BOC to intensify campaign against fake cigarettes amid TRO

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) remains firm in its position to intensify operations against importers and manufacturers of smuggled and fake cigarettes despite a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued in favor of a cigarette manufacturing company.

A TRO was issued on March 6, 2017 by Judge Tita Bughao Alisuag of the Manila Regional Trial Court, Branch 1, which prevents BOC from conducting raids or inspections at the warehouses of Mighty Corporation for a period of 20 days - from March 3 to 23, 2017.

“Yes, we will abide by the TRO, but we are not discounting the legal remedies available to us to counter the said TRO,” Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon said.

Prior to the issuance of the TRO, BOC and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) conducted a series of raids which resulted in the seizure of thousands of cases of cigarettes with fake tax stamps amounting to more than a billion pesos.

These operations were carried out upon the issuance of Mission Orders and Letters of Authority from Faeldon. BIR operatives confirmed that the seized tax stamps were fake after subjecting them to authenticity tests.

Faeldon said that Customs authorities will remain on guard at the warehouses of Mighty Corp. to ensure that the seized cigarettes will not be tampered with or swapped with legitimate products.

The BOC Commissioner remains optimistic that after gathering all relevant evidence, the bureau will be able to build a strong case against Mighty Corp.

“We are assuring the public and all legitimate manufacturers and importers of cigarettes or any other products that the BOC will run after illicit traders and smugglers.”

The BOC has exclusive jurisdiction over all seizure and forfeiture cases as per Section 202 of Rep. Act No. 10863 or the “Customs Modernization and Tariff Act” (CMTA).

Section 301 of the CMTA further provides that “[a]ll goods, including means of transport, entering or leaving customs territory, regardless of whether they are liable to duties and taxes, shall be subject to customs control" to ensure compliance with the border security mandate of the BOC under relevant customs laws, rules, and procedures.

Manila Water’s Treasury Departmeent is now ISO 9001:2015 certified

The Treasury Department of East Zone water and used water service provider Manila Water’s is now certified ISO 9001:2015 based on the assessment and certification upgrade conducted by TUV Rheinland Philippines, Inc. ISO 9001:2015 is the newly- implemented international standards of ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management.

With this ISO certification, the company commits to a more internationally competitive treasury management through improved and world-class transparency of operations in accordance with corporate governance standards, optimized resource usage and increased customer satisfaction.

Manila Water added that major changes to the ISO standards include a new “high-level structure” for easier integration of various systems. The standard aims to enhance customer satisfaction through effective application of the system, including processes for continual improvement and the assurance of conformity to customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.

Photo shows Manila Water’s Treasury Department officials headed by Joy Sison, Treasury Department Head, ISO consultant Jose Paulo Mungcal and TUV Rheinland Philippines external auditors Jogina Mendiola and Ramoncito Puyat.

EastWest’s auto loans business up 67% in 2016

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) continues to make headway in its auto loans business as it registered a phenomenal year-on-year growth of 67% in 2016. A robust partnership with auto dealers as well as the continued growth of the automotive industry contributed to the strong performance of the business.

Data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and the Truck Manufacturers Association shows that 2016 was another banner year. Vehicle sales rose 25% to 359,572 units last year on the back of rising middle class income, improving local economy, and the sustained low financing packages available. For the passenger car segment, sales jumped 14% with 133,188 units sold.

"In the coming years, we see the auto industry’s continued growth. Many people dream of owning a vehicle because of the convenience it brings," said EastWest EVP & Head of Consumer Lending Cluster Jacqueline S. Fernandez.

Under the government’s automotive program, the auto industry is looking at surpassing the 500,000 units sales by 2018. The potential for growth remains high as nearly half of Filipino households do not yet own vehicles.

"We are here to help our customers realize their dreams. That’s why we’ve made our consumer loans affordable, with low interest rates and flexible payment terms, and the application process fast and easy," added Fernandez.

Earlier this year, the Bank signed up popular actor and triathlete Matteo Guidicelli to be the face of its Auto and Personal Loans businesses. The young celebrity embodies the hardworking and driven individuals that EastWest supports.

Globe and Mabuhay Miles give free sims to PAL passengers

Instant communication with loved ones in the Philippines

The International Business Group of Globe Telecom partnered with Mabuhay Miles to make it easier for balikbayans, OFWs, and travelers to get in touch with their loved ones when they reach the Philippines via free Traveler sim cards distributed to passengers on PAL’s international flights to Manila.

“We continuously strive to serve the needs of our dear OFWs, balikbayans and tourists. Through the partnership with Mabuhay Miles, we have created an avenue where our customers are able to enjoy their homecoming by means of instant communication as soon as they land,” said Nikko Acosta, Senior Vice President of the International Business Group of Globe Telecom.

Since December 14, 2016, the Traveler sim has been distributed to passengers on PAL international flights for free. As a bonus, customers can avail of unlimited calls to Globe and TM mobiles, 20 all-net SMS and 15MB mobile data valid for one day.

“Through this partnership with Globe, we are very happy to give our Mabuhay Miles customers a more enriching in-flight experience by making them feel we are making their trip to the Philippines more rewarding,” said Kevin Hartigan-Go, PAL VP for Ancillary Business Unit. “As of today, we have supplied hundreds of thousands of PAL passengers with free sim cards and we cannot wait to give to more!” Hartigan-Go added.

Mabuhay Miles will give 500 bonus miles when Traveler Sim customers register or update their membership information.

New members need to enroll at www.mabuhaymiles.com and text their Mabuhay Miles number using the Traveler sim to 3456. Existing members can update their profile by texting their Mabuhay Miles number, name and email address to 3456. 

Passengers can buy prepaid load at the Globe booths at NAIA 2 (PAL terminal), other international airports nationwide, and at over 800,000 Globe retailers around the country.

BOC recognized by PDEA for its anti-drugs operations

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) received a plaque of appreciation from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for having the most number of significant drug-related operational accomplishments from January to November 2016.

The award was presented by Chairman Isidro S. Lapena, Chairman NALECC-SCDDCC/DG, PDEA at ceremonies held at the PDEA National Headquarters on 7 December. Chairman Lapena acknowledged the numerous apprehensions made by the Bureau, especially at the Customs unit stationed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

For the year 2016, the CAIDTF apprehended dangerous drugs amounting to more than P340 million as a result of 36 apprehensions which yielded cocaine, shabu, ecstasy, marijuana and other precursors.

Lt. Sherwin F. Andrada, Executive Officer of the Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force (CAIDTF), ESS of the BOC Enforcement Group, stated that the Bureau will continue to be on the look out for drug groups who would use our airports and customs border to smuggle drugs into the Philippines.

This effort is in line with the directive of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to BOC to apprehend all drugs and drug related precursors that may pass thru the customs borders.

“The war on drugs is the priority of the present administration, and BOC is committed to fully support this challenging task,” Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement Group Ariel F. Nepomuceno said.

Globe At Home subscribers fly to the U.S. for the NBA All-Star Weekend!

“The NBA All-Star Weekend is one of the most exciting sporting events in the world, and we want to create winning moments for our subscribers by bringing them where the action is,” says Martha Sazon, Senior Vice President of Globe At Home. “Watching an NBA All-Star game live is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we want to share with the winning Globe broadband subscribers.”

Lucky broadband subscribers flew to New Orleans this weekend for the 2017 NBA All-Star festivities and got the MVP treatment with their tickets, accommodations, and airfares care of Globe At Home.

Late to news? Don’t fret! More subscribers will get a chance to watch live games in the U.S.! The next batch of winners will be drawn on February 27, 2017 where two winners will win two NBA regular season tickets with roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations. The last batch of winners will be drawn on March 20, 2017 who will get to watch an NBA Finals game and the 2017 NBA Draft live!

“Globe At Home strives to create a seamless experience for all subscribers, and this extends to our promos as well,” says Sazon. “All of Globe At Home’s subscribers will be automatically added to the raffle with the NBA LEAGUE PASS.”

Subscribers to Globe At Home Plan 1299 and higher service offerings have six months of free access to NBA LEAGUE PASS. The NBA LEAGUE PASS is a subscription service that lets users watch NBA games live, complete with multi-game views in high-definition quality. Globe At Home subscribers are eligible to join the raffle by simply activating the promo code sent to their account. Broadband subscribers will get the same number of raffle entries as the denomination of the plan.

Join us as we celebrate the NBA All-Star Festival from February 18 to 19 at the Bonifacio High Street Activity Center, where you can catch the NBA All-Star Weekend live, participate in exciting on-court activities and exhibition games, as well as win amazing prizes.

For more information on Globe At Home, call 730-1010, visit www.globe.com.ph/broadband or the nearest Globe store. For more information about the NBA Fly Away Promo, visitwww.globe.com.ph/surf/plan/nba/fly-away-promo.

DICT AND PCTO TO HOLD THE FIRST PHILIPPINE TELECOMMUNICATIONS SUMMIT

DICT Secretary Rodolfo Salalima speaks to the media during the Philippine Telecoms Summit Press Briefing on February 22, 2017

“The consensus among all players is to work on concrete solutions. It will not be a blame game. This way, we will be able to move forward and fast track ICT,” shared Eric De Los Reyes, Chairman of the Philippine Chamber of Telecommunications Operators (PCTO), during the Press Briefing of the first ever Philippine Telecoms Summit. Held at Via Mare Restaurant, on February 22, 2017, the media briefing was attended by heads of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and PCTO, and representatives from Globe Telecom and Smart Communications.

PCTO, in partnership with DICT and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), brings together the Telecommunications Industry’s stakeholders, comprising of government agencies and regulators, industry players, experts, and consumers in one event to address the problems and issues surrounding the state of Telecommunications in the country today.

The PH Telecoms Summit will address three main concerns: Cost, Coverage, and Speed of telecommunication services in the country, and how these can be fixed with the cooperation of all stakeholders. Representatives from the different interest groups will be given the opportunity to deliver their concerns and establish dialogue with all the participants. DICT Secretary Rodolfo A. Salalima promises that the Summit will be a no-holds-barred discussion; “I want the problems and challenges all out during the Summit, because if not, we will not know how to find a solution,” he added during the Briefing.

“The problem of one is the problem of all,” reiterated the Secretary, emphasizing the shared responsibilities among the government, the private, and the public sectors. With the goal of using Telecommunications as a tool for Nation Building, the two-day summit serves as a vehicle towards better internet and telecoms services.

Secretary Salalima concluded his statement with a message: “You have the power to use ICT as an enabler for education, enterprise, governance, and social empowerment.”

The Philippine Telecoms Summit 2017 will be held on March 9 and 10, 2017 at The PICC Forum, Pasay City, Manila. Follow DICT on Facebook, Twitter, and http://dict.gov.ph for updates.

BOC, PDEA, Chinese agents join forces to stop drug smuggling

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) tie-up with China’s Fujian Provincial Drug Law Enforcement Agency for a strong stance against the entrance of prohibited drugs into the Philippines.

In a meeting on Tuesday, 21 February, Director Neil Anthony Estrella of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) emphasized the need to talk about and address the illegal drug operations involving China and the Philippines. “This will be the start of the interaction and engagement of the customs of China and of Philippines,” he said.

Deputy Director for Operation Division of Narcotics Control Commission Shen Yu explained that this tie up is a response to the agreement and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during President Rodrigo Duterte's four-day state visit to Beijing last October 18 to 21. The said MOU supports the Philippine government’s efforts in fighting against illicit drugs.

“We have come to our new relationship after President Duterte visited China. We can discuss how to enhance cooperation in terms of narcotics control between our nation,” Yu said.

BOC, aside from its primary function of collecting the lawful duties and taxes accruing on the imported article, is also responsible for keeping all ports of entry free from smuggling in any forms.

According to reports from the Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force (CAIDTF) for 2016, BOC intercepted 30 illegal drugs shipments, 14 illegal shipments of methamphetamine hydrochloride also known as shabu amounting to P30,093,990.50, five shipments of ecstasy valued at P15,363,000, nine shipments of cocaine pegged at P291,677,691; and one shipment of marijuana at P25,520 -- all totaling to P337,160,201.50.

Illegal drugs are transported to the country via fishing vessels and shabu laboratories. Last 17 February, BOC seized 320 drums of imported hydrochloric acid known as one of the components in making shabu at the Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT), Tagoloan Sub-port, Cagayan de Oro.

Deputy Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno of the Enforcement Group said that the top priority of the government is drug enforcement. “We can establish a specific office or person to act as a liason officer of the Narcotics Commission of China. You can expect BOC’s full cooperation because this is our priority -to end illegal drugs smuggling,” he said.

China has partnered with Japan, Australia, and New Zealand in its intelligence sharing against crimes and drugs. Philippines and China agreed to enhance exchange of intelligence and technology in fighting against drug crimes, including the training of operatives and techniques in detecting illegal drugs

PCOO holds a milestone all media gathering on Social Media

MANILA, Feb. 21 - The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) will be holding a milestone gathering of the country's influential media, communications, and public relations personalities on Thursday, February 23, at the Bahay ng Alumni, the University of the Philippines - Diliman in Quezon City.

The PCOO-initiated event, dubbed #AllMediaPH, aims to acknowledge the power of social media and present the draft Social Media Policy before various interest groups and industry stakeholders, which include the academe, students, bloggers, mainstream media, and those in the legal profession.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who will deliver the keynote address, is receptive to the idea of allowing social media practitioners, i.e., bloggers, to cover the Palace's activities.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte earlier granted the request of some bloggers and social media supporters to cover Palace events during their meeting with the Chief Executive in Malacanan.

Andanar acknowledged the role these bloggers played in disseminating information to the public.

"The bloggers come in because there is an evolution of the media and the bloggers always tell me about Article III, Section 4 of the Constitution," Secretary Andanar said, referring to the Bill of Rights on the freedom of speech and of expression.

This same Article, the PCO Chief said, has become his basis to consider giving bloggers media accreditation to cover the Palace's events.

Social media platforms have given their users a similar power of spreading information and forming public opinion, making it imperative for the government to consider social media and its platforms, alongside traditional media channels, in developing its communications strategy and communicating directly with the people.

Nonetheless, Andanar, being a former media personality, is aware of the difference between the mainstream media and the bloggers. "I'm from the media. We are accountable to our editors, accountable to our bosses, and that's the difference. And also the discipline," he said.

Andanar also underscored the fact that since bloggers work independently, they have different sets of standards.

"We're in interesting times wherein we are seeing bloggers with names become bigger than anyone... It's a phenomenon that we have to embrace, at the same time we also have to control," he said, pointing out that social media is a new way of disseminating information.

Hence, it is important, the PCO Chief said, that bloggers must have a personality, not anonymous so that they can be held accountable if they write something libelous.

Andanar is looking forward to talking and consult with resource persons and representatives of various sectors during the event in a bid to come up with a social media framework that is acceptable to all concerned.

Some of the event's important highlights include the presentation of draft Social Media Policy, knowing the stand and opinions of resource persons, and a plenary discussion. (PCOO)

Globe supports Senate move to reform telco industry

Globe Telecom expressed its support to the bills, particularly those that refer to adoption of nationwide mobile number portability and streamlining of permitting process for cell sites to improve efficiency of telecommuting, introduced by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian to institute reforms to the local telecommunications industry. 

Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate committee on economic affairs, has authored several proposed measures directly affecting the telecommunications industry that will fast track the roll out of telecom services in the country, improve speed and service of the internet, and lower the cost for the consumers.

“We have always taken the position that government support is indispensable in enhancing the country’s ICT capacities, which is vital in growing the economy. We hope that any move to reform the telco industry should include formulation of policies that would fast track the development of the ICT industry as a whole to further boost economic development,” Globe General Counsel Atty. Froilan Castelo said.

He pointed out that GSMA reported in October 2016 that the mobile ecosystem in Asia Pacific, consisting of network operators, infrastructure service providers, retailers and distributors of mobile products and services, handset manufacturers and mobile content, application and service providers, makes a significant contribution to their respective economies in terms of economic growth, job creation and public funding. According to GSMA, the total value added generated by the mobile ecosystem was around $440 billion (or 1.8% of GDP), with network operators accounting for well over half of this total.

In addition, the use of mobile technology also drives improvements in productivity and efficiency for workers and firms. GSMA estimates that productivity impacts were worth around $737 billion in 2015 (or 3% of GDP). “Overall, taking into account the direct, indirect and productivity impacts, in 2015 the mobile industry made a total contribution of $1.3 trillion to the Asia-Pacific economies in value added terms, equivalent to 5.4% of the region’s total GDP,” GSMA added. (http://www.gsma.com/ mobileeconomy/asiapacific/)

Castelo emphasized the need to accelerate development of ICT infrastructure to improve business competencies and capacities as well as enhance delivery of essential government services in communities where even basic infrastructure such as roads and bridges are lacking for a more inclusive economic growth.

Despite heavy investments in recent years, establishment of telco infrastructure in remote areas in the country continues to be a challenge, hindered by business viability concerns that has kept telco operators from aggressively deploying infrastructure in rural and far-flung areas. To address such challenges, Globe has proposed that the government itself should help develop the ICT sector by investing in internet infrastructure in outlying communities, stressing that internet access creates significant impact on the development of marginal areas as this allows the community to conduct businesses, get information on education, health and other government services.

In addition to investments in “missionary routes”, telecommunication operators also need government support in minimizing, if not eliminating bureaucracy in relation to the permitting process for cell sites and right-of-way for fiber deployment, said Castelo, pointing out that the company needs to secure around 25 permits, spanning at least 8 months to complete, to build a single cell site. He emphasized that given public clamor for better internet speeds and access, rationalization of the permitting process for telco infrastructure should be addressed as soon as possible.

Globe needs to continuously build cell sites especially in relation to the deployment of the previously warehoused 700 MHz spectrum, which is seen not only to deliver additional capacity but also enhanced indoor coverage. The company, however, is able to deploy only around 450 cell sites a year even as it targets to build roughly around a thousand towers annually due to permitting challenges.

DOLE warns alien workers to legalize stay in the country

Following the recent increase in the number of detained illegal foreign laborers in the country, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reminded migrants yesterday to legalize their stay or face possible deportation.

“Alien workers also have the right to work here…if they will follow the law then there will be no problem,” Labor Undersecretary Joel Maglunsod said in a phone interview.

Maglunsod issued the statement after the Department of Justice (DOJ) reported that at least 1,300 undocumented Chinese workers were found by authorities in Clark, Pampanga last November.

Authorities are still investigating how the Chinese nationals were able to slip pass local immigration process and work without any Alien Employment Permit (AEP).

AEP is a documentary requirement issued by DOLE’s regional offices for foreigners before they could be allowed to work in the country.

“If they do not have the permit then they will be sent to their countries, the same way our TNTs are sent home,” he added.

TNT, or “tago-ng-tago,” translates to “in perpetual hiding.” It is the Filipino term used to refer to undocumented overseas Filipino workers (OFW) abroad.

DOLE has already instructed its regional offices to intensify the assessment of establishments to ensure all of the foreign workers within their jurisdiction have their AEPs.

“We told them to make sure the alien workers are compliant (with the AEP requirement)…We have to enforce what is in the law, to prevent what has happened in Clark,” Maglunsod said.

He said they were also ready to help the illegal migrants to process their AEP so they can legally work in the country.

“We are willing to help them if they will undergo processing (for the AEP),” Maglunsod said.

- Manila Bulletin 

CUSTOMS SEIZED MANGKONO LOGS IN PORT OF DAVAO

(Philippines, Davao) Some Mangkono logs misdeclared as flour meal and powder, dried crushed bana were confiscated on Sunday, February 5 by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Port of Davao after it was discovered as misdeclared shipment.

Customs District Collector Jamail A. Marohomsalic reported to Commissioner Nicanor E. Faeldon that the logs were discovered when its container van was opened by BOC agents in the presence of Philippine Drugs Enforcement Administration and the Philippine Coast Guard due to a false information that it contains illegal drugs.

According to Marohomsalic, the shipment was for export to a consignee in Japan identified as Sanyo Tsushu Co. Ltd. with address at 3014 Tsunoshita Damon Cho Fukuyama City, Hiroshima, Japan.

The shipper was identified as Transmodal International Inc. with office address at Door 11, 2ndFloor, SJRDC Building, Insular Village, Lanang, Davao City.

Mangkono trees, the native Philippine iron wood, is categorized endangered in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red list for 2014. Moreover, cutting of the tree is currently prohibited under Executive Order 23 dated February 1, 2011 issued by former President Benigno S. Aquino III and provisions of the Presidential Decree 705 otherwise known as Forestry Code of the Philippines.

The log of a Mangkono tree is usually used as excellent material for the bearing or stern bushing of a steamship’s propeller shaft. Its other uses are as rollers, shears, saw guide blocks, tool handles, novelties, poles and piles for wharves and bridges, and posts for houses. Domestically, it can be used to make heavy furniture like tables and chairs.

Marohomsalic said that the log shipment declared with a value of P380,000 lacks export permit from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

It is currently under Warrant of Seizure and Detention by BOC in Davao City.

KonsultaMD now accessible from all Philippine telecom networks

KonsultaMD, a 24/7 health hotline service by Global Telehealth, Inc., provides access to licensed and professional doctors who give immediate medical attention to its members, is now accessible from all telecom operators in the Philippines.

“KonsultaMD has always been about helping address the healthcare pain points of the Philippines. All of us, regardless of the network we choose, experience these pain points. Hence, it makes sense to make KonsultaMD services available to all,” said Maridol Ylanan, CEO of Global Telehealth, Inc., an affiliate of leading telecommunications company Globe Telecom, Inc.

Globe’s mission is to create wonderful experiences for people, to have choices, overcome challenges, and discover ways to enjoy life. Given this direction, Globe has invested in Global Telehealth to provide medical services to the consumers.

Global Telehealth also took aggressive steps to be able to move beyond what their customers need by offering KonsultaMD services to other telco networks nationwide. 

KonsultaMD works by simply calling 79880 (mobile) or (02) 798 8000 (landline). Members of KonsultaMD can speak to a licensed Filipino doctor, immediately and directly with no waiting time, regarding their health concerns. Inquiries about health-related issues include, but are not limited to maternity, pediatrics and primary conditions like fever, rashes, and allergies, to name a few. Callers may also inquire about matters pertaining to health coaching, nutrition counselling, permissible medication and even laboratory results.

Globe Postpaid customers only need to pay a fee of Php150 a month to avail of KonsultaMD services which can be used by up to four additional members while Globe Prepaid and TM customers have the option to subscribe for an individual membership by paying Php15 a week or Php60 monthly. 

Customers of other networks can now subscribe to KonsultaMD by simply logging on to www.konsulta.md, clicking on subscribe and going to ‘Other Networks’ where they can fill out an online application form. Subscription payments can be made via Visa, MasterCard, GCash, BancNet or SMART Money. Upon receipt of SMS and email confirmation, customers can start using the service by calling the KonsultaMD hotline at 79880 (mobile) or (02) 798 8000.

Calls from Globe landlines nationwide and calls within Metro Manila via landline are free. Calls from Globe or TM mobile numbers are charged a special call rate of Php1 per minute while non-Globe customers pay the standard mobile and NDD rates.

BOC opens new unit for border security, trade facilitation

Philippines - The Bureau of Customs officially opened on Thursday, 2 February its Container Control Unit (CCU) as part of the agency's continuous effort in strengthening its campaign towards effective border security and trade facilitation. 

This unit will serve as an intelligence office that will focus on non-fiscal violations like illicit trade and proliferation of strategic goods. It will recommend high-risk shipments to a higher authority to exercise proper enforcement of laws, rules, and regulations, as well as to exercise any type of control in relation to the aforementioned non-fiscal violations.

During the opening ceremony, Customs Commissioner Nicanor E. Faeldon explained that the unit will ensure safety in trade facilitation. The origin of suspected shipments carrying contraband will be identified and prevented from entering the country through this program.

"These technologies, systems and the program will help us monitor illicit trade," he said.

The CCU is sponsored by the United Nations on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with the World Customs Organization (WCO). Two of the major sponsoring countries for South East Asia are Canada and Australia.

Canadian Ambassador John Holmes said that their government remains committed to working with UN to fight drugs, illicit trade, crime, corruption and border security threats. He said that collaborative cooperation with the ASEAN is necessary in securing trade culture and in eradicating poverty, crime, and corruption in the country.

US Attache for Homeland Security Ransom Avilla explained that the program focuses on export control and border security. He added that this unit will enhance the BOC's mandate of trade facilitation and securing the Philippine borders from smuggling and other forms of customs fraud. Avilla said the US government reaffirms its continued support to the Philippines in facilitating trade and ensures that efforts are complementary to the needs of the Philippines. 

UN South East Asian Regional Director Mark Stanley acknowledged the efforts of the Bureau and expressed the UN's support to the country's fight against trafficking of illicit trade and the destruction of agricultural products. 

The newly-created unit will operate under BOC's Revenue Collection and Monitoring Group. Staff and contractual employees of the Risk Management Office are concurrently working at the CCU.