As a commitment to DILG's Revitalized 911 program, PNP now responds to emergency calls within three to five minutes

Responders from the Philippine National Police (PNP) now reach the scene in under five minutes.

The good news is that more than 90% of all police 911 calls can now be handled in record time, according to PNP Communications and Electronics Service (CES) Director Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar A. Tolito.

The Department of Interior and Local Government's (DILG) Revitalized Emergency 911 Project, which requires prompt and precise responses to emergency calls from citizens and LGUs, is directly responsible for the revolutionary approach to emergency response.

According to Tolito, the majority of emergency calls are related to car crashes, domestic abuse, disturbances in the public, people going riot, theft, and robbery.

A woman who was about to jump off a bridge in Batasan Hills was pulled to safety by PNP officers, an ecobagged newborn found in a vacant lot in Cabuyao, Laguna, was taken to the hospital in time to save its life, and a tanker full of goods was prevented from being hijacked due to quick relay messages between operatives from the crime scene in Caloocan to the place of apprehension in Obando, Bulacan, according to Tolito.

“At PNP 911, we do not discriminate. There was an incident of someone creating trouble in a Nueva Ecija establishment. Someone from the establishment called 911 and within 5 minutes, the responders were there. The apprehended person in the station was identified as an off duty-officer of the law. So we can be at par or better than other countries. We have accepted the challenge and even our Regional Directors are doing simulation exercises in the field just to show how serious we are about this. I think what drives our PNP to sustain this kind of response is the joy of responding and helping our kababayans on the ground who really need help the most. It’s very fulfilling to be able to help them by responding fast, it’s just that we did not have this type of system before. Now that we have it, our PNP has high morale because they have a clear sense of direction in their patrolling. emergencies can happen anytime, and we are happy that we can respond efficiently and accurately. It is in our nature as Filipinos to want to help our fellow men, in whatever way. The PNP, the E911 National Office of the DILG powered by NGA911's cutting-edge technology, data-driven analytics, and PLDT's network are at work daily elevating 911 of the Philippines to a higher level.” ~Police Brigadier General Warren Gaspar A. Tolito, Director of the PNP Communications and Electronics Service (CES)

According to Tolito, certain cities, such as Quezon City and Zamboanga City, have very effective emergency response systems and react very rapidly. Although it takes a little longer, areas with a long commute to the closest police station still respond within the allotted three to five minutes. Response times can occasionally be impacted by traffic in Metro Manila areas. According to him, the Laguna and Cavite regions receive the most emergency calls.

According to Robert Llaguno, the country head of NGA 911 Philippines, which supplied the PNP with its proprietary call handling system, statistics indicate that it takes less than a minute for 911 calls to be answered after pressing "1" for police, and that responders' average dispatch time is only 40 to 50 seconds. The PNP and LGUs' emergency capabilities have been raised to US and European standards thanks to NGA 911 technology.

“Comparable and may be even better than that of the States. The PNP is determined to sustain this type of response for Filipinos and should be commended for this.” ~Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA 911 Philippines

Tolito said the PNP is committed to get things done within the 3 to 5 minutes standard set by PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil based on a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last June.

Jollibee Group Foundation Boosts Farmers’ Competency on Agri-Technology

The ATF participants engaged in activities and workshops to build on their outputs and allow them to have a meaningful learning experience.

The first round of trainings for the Agri-Tech Facilitator (ATF) Program was successfully held in Pasig City from October 14–16 by the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development division of the Jollibee Group. As part of JGF's effort to develop smallholder farmers into agri-tech facilitators who will find, test, and promote innovations that will increase the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of their agro-enterprises, this training covered the first of three program modules.

The ATF Program is part of the continuous capacity-building training provided by JGF to the farmer groups and local implementing partners of its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP). The first batch of ATF participants were representatives from Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI), ASHI Grameen Agricultural Program (AGAP), Ayat ti Pasuquin Farmers and Irrigators Association, Kalasag Multipurpose Cooperative, Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lourdes Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Marcos Village Palayan City Farmers Agri-Farm Corporation, Onion and Vegetables Producers Cooperative, Pagbiagan Multipurpose Cooperative, Sacred Heart Savings Cooperative, Tucop Farmers Association, and Ungab Farmers Association.

“The Agri-Tech Facilitator Program enables JGF to further support the growth of our farmers. By fostering collaboration and encouraging openness to innovative changes, we hope our farmers could thrive better as agro-entrepreneurs and continue to achieve sustainability and success in the long-term.” ~Gisela Tiongson, JGF President 

For Jude Tria, Board of Director of the Lourdes Multi-Purpose Cooperative, one of FEP’s local implementing partners, who is also an ATF Farmer Adviser, the entire module would also be beneficial in building their confidence and establishing their quality as FEP farmers.

“Naniniwala ako na ang programa ng ATF ay magkakaroon ng magandang epekto sa mga magsasaka dahil ang agritech ay hindi lamang pamilyar sa mga magsasaka kundi nakatutok din sa bawat isa sa kanila. Dahil napaka-accessible rin nila, hindi na magdadalawang isip ang mga magsasaka tungkol sa pagkonsulta sa kanila, at sa akin, ito ay magreresulta sa na ang programa ay maging isang milestone, isa pang trademark ng FEP, (I believe that the ATF program would have a good impact on the farmers because the agritech is not only familiar with the farmers but is also focused on each one of them. Since they are also very accessible, the farmers won't have second thoughts about consulting them, and to me, this would eventually result in the program becoming a milestone, another trademark of FEP).” ~Jude Tria, Board of Director of the Lourdes Multi-Purpose Cooperative

Over 18 participants from different FEP farmer groups and local implementing partners gathered to learn about agri-extension approaches and methods at the pioneering Agri-Tech Facilitator Training Program of the Jollibee Group Foundation.

Through FEP, JGF gives smallholder farmers the tools and training they need to improve their technical and leadership abilities so they can supply high-quality vegetables to institutional markets like Jollibee Group. Currently, the Company receives regular crop deliveries from 19 FEP farmer groups. 

Farming Innovations

The participants will move on to the next two modules, which will be held in 2025, after finishing the first one. Participants' practicum participation is a component of the two additional modules.

The Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan will facilitate the upcoming training session, which is scheduled for January 2025.

According to Jefrey Velasquez, Cluster Leader of the Lamac Multipurpose Cooperative Association, the ATF program improves their farming skills. In his role as a leader, he also developed his communication skills, which he says are critical to fostering relationships with other farmers. 

“Mahalaga po itong training na ito dahil dito po nagmumula ang mga bagong kaalaman sa teknolohiya, at iba pa pong kasanayan, na siya ko rin pong ituturo sa aking mga kapwa magsasaka.” (This training is important because it gives us new knowledge on technology, as well as other practices, which I will also be able to teach and share with my fellow farmers) ~Jefrey Velasquez, Lamac Multipurpose Cooperative Association Cluster Leader

Meanwhile, Larena Nicolas, President of the Marcos Village Palayan City Farmers Agri-Farm Corporation, appreciates how the training encourages leaders like her to help their fellow farmers succeed. 

“Kailangan ko pong maituro sa aming members ang kahalagahan ng ganitong trainings upang ma-adopt din po nila ‘yong practices at patuloy na makapag supply sa mga institutional market. Importante po talaga na magpaliwanag sa mga farmer at pakinggan ang needs nila,” (I need to teach our members the importance of such trainings so they can also adopt the practices and be able to continuously supply to institutional markets. It is important that we get to discuss with them and listen to their needs) ~Larena Nicolas, President of the Marcos Village Palayan City Farmers Agri-Farm Corporation

JGF is looking forward to seeing how the new Agri-Tech Facilitators will implement these agri-extension approaches and methods in their own farming communities, further uplifting the livelihood of smallholder farmers in the country. 

About Jollibee Group 

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), also known as the Jollibee Group, is one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies, with a mission to deliver great-tasting food, bringing the joy of eating through its 19 brands with over 9,500 stores across 32 countries. 

 

The Jollibee Group’s portfolio includes eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger), four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in China), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and has recently invested in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology. 

 

Through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL), the Jollibee Group holds a 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan (THW) brand. It has a joint venture with the THW Group to expand THW in China. It also established a joint venture company that holds the franchise rights to operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. The Company also holds a 90% stake in Titan Dining Partners II Ltd for growing Asia-Pacific food service brands. 

 

The Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices across food safety, employee welfare, community support, good governance, and environmental responsibility, among others. These focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

 

The Jollibee Group has been recognized as the Philippines' Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal, named one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies, and listed among Forbes' World’s Best Employers and Top Female-Friendly Companies. The Company is also a three-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recipient and featured in TIME’s World’s Best Companies and Fortune’s Southeast Asia 500 List.

 

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

Acer Philippines rings in the holiday season with new products and promos

The season is brightened by a new song collaboration between SB19 and G22, a holiday promo, and a beauty launch from Acer Philippines.

This holiday season, Acer Philippines has a lot to celebrate! With a song featuring Acer ambassadors SB19 and G22, a fantastic promotion offering free fits and discounts, and the introduction of a new product line that promises to give you gorgeous hair, Acer is spreading happiness. At the #AcerAtingPasko event held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, all of these positive developments were celebrated.

“All these activities and promos are Acer’s gifts to our valued customers who continue to make us the top consumer and gaming notebook brand in the Philippines.” ~Sue Ong-Lim, Managing Director at Acer Philippines

Sing along to #AcerAtingPasko by SB19 and G22

The touching song "Ating Pasko," performed by Acer ambassadors SB19 and G22, is a tribute to the Acer family. The spirit of thankfulness and community during the holidays is captured in the music video, which was shot in Taiwan during SB19 and G22's visit to Acer headquarters. Brenan C. Espartinez composed the song, and Paolo Miguel O. Rañeses and Espartinez produced it. Watch the music video here.

Spread the holiday cheer with the #AcerMaligayangPasko promo

With every qualifying Acer and Predator laptop purchase, receive up to Php10,000 in appliance center e-gifts and up to Php5,000 off Acer products. Within a week of purchase, customers must register their product warranty by going to https://warranty.acer.com.ph. Within five business days of the customer fulfilling the registration requirements, Acer will verify their credentials. A certificate of warranty registration will be emailed to the customer's specified email address following successful validation.

Within five (5) days of warranty registration, an e-gift will be sent to the customer's provided email address and mobile number if the registered product qualifies for the promotion. Any SM Appliance or Abenson Appliance Store in the country is able to accept the e-gift.

Have a sparkling holiday season with Acerpure Beauty

Finally, Acerpure launches its much-awaited hair drying and styling tools!

With its 22 million anion technology, the Acerpure Beauty HD1 is an ionic hair dryer that helps to add shine and lessen frizz. It features a special ProDry Nozzle that disperses heat uniformly to swiftly dry your hair without causing damage.  Additionally, it features a five-minute ultra-quick dry function, which is ideal for hectic days.

With seven styler attachments for a variety of hairstyles, the Acerpure Beauty HD2 is a two-in-one ionic hair dryer and styler. It has a 3-minute ultra-quick dry function, a brushless DC motor with high speed, and 2.2 million anion technology. Additionally, it features a smart clean feature, an AI hair care mode, and a lightweight, portable design.

“We are very excited to bring Acerpure Beauty to the Philippines. Like other Acerpure products, these will help make people’s lives easier.” ~Princess Laosantos, Senior Marketing Manager at Acer Philippines

The Acerpure Sparkling Holiday Promo is currently offering Acerpure Beauty products at a discounted price. The price range for the hair dryer is Php1,299 from Php1,999, and the price range for the hair styler is Php4,999 from Php5,999. The promotion is only available for purchases made from Acer Philippines Online Stores, Acer Concept Stores, and Acerpure Authorized Resellers. The offer is valid through December 31, 2024.

Philippine Madrigal Singers

Sue Ong-Lim, Acer Philippines Managing Director; Stanley Kao, Acerpure President; Princess Laosantos, Acer Philippines Senior Marketing Manager

Anthony Gerard Gob - Head - Product Mangement Team - Consumer and Gaming Products, Acer Philippines

Princess Laosantos - Senior Marketing Manager, Acer Philippines

For more information about the Acer, follow Acer Philippines on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, or visit www.acer.com.

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world's top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with the industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. Acer's 7,700 employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

Are You Hurrying for the Holidays? Here is a last-minute Christmas present suggestion for you and your loved ones

The best season of the year is here! With vibrant decorations all around, the holiday spirit is completely taking over. Most people view it as a time to celebrate and spend time together, and many want to take full advantage of the holidays. Most people would prepare their gifts at the last minute when the most sought-after items go on sale, but they might have started as early as September. The excitement of the holidays is increased by the last-minute shopping frenzy, and any mishaps that may occur during the season are outweighed by the sincere preparations.

We've compiled a list of ideas for what to get your special someone this Christmas if, like most people, you're still making your gift list. Since the more, the better, right?

For the Passionate Ones Who Feel the Beat Within

We have children taking after-school voice or dance classes, and even adults who desire a more active and healthy lifestyle. They enter a state in which their heart beats rapidly. These driven individuals require something that sustains their creativity over extended periods of time. Because of this, you frequently see people using headphones or earphones to listen to their favorite music or just to listen to podcasts for inspiration. As these people take on the world, this device will be ideal.

Our recommendation: The 1000XM5 headphones and earbuds will provide excellent sound quality and comfort simultaneously. Adaptive sound control is another feature of these top-rated Sony noise-canceling headphones. Productivity is ensured with earbuds that last up to 24 hours and headphones that last up to 30 hours. Purchasing these as gifts has never been simpler, as they are currently available for a limited time at Php 17,999 and Php 15,999!

Want more options? Check this out: The compact design of the WF-C510 earbuds allows for all-day sound. Right now, it's priced at Php 3,299 for the lovely month of December.

One for All, All for One: The ULTimate Year-End Gift 

We all anticipate holiday parties because, as you may know, Filipino parties are simply more enjoyable! Before you know it, your calendar will be filled with party reservations in place of work meeting times. Isn't that the greatest sensation? Stories and laughter are the norm at these gatherings. Regardless of the circumstance, a strong speaker becomes an indispensable part of any party.

Our recommendation: For your party needs, a variety of speakers with lights are available. However, they lack a specialized wireless microphone. The ULT Tower 10 offers everything you need for a distinctive Filipino celebration. It even has easy-to-use speaker controls and can be used as a makeshift amplifier for your guitar. With wheels for increased mobility, it's unquestionably a necessity for any situation.

Too on the nose? Don't worry; Sony and other other authorized have the small wireless ULT Field 1 speaker, which works just as well. Be sure to visit them during their holiday promotions.

An Eye-catching Treat For Moms (and even Dads)

This is the time of year to take a break from the hectic world and (finally) spend time with family. Our mothers deal with issues at home that we frequently overlook, such as taking care of the family and running the house, while the majority of us are preoccupied with work or school. They catch up on watching their favorite series or films as a small but satisfying treat. Even fathers enjoy watching comedies and laughing together. In a time when screens come in a variety of sizes and shapes, televisions (TVs) are still a common household item and represent family relaxation and togetherness. Additionally, a multipurpose TV can add coziness and meaning to holiday get-togethers.

Our recommendation: The best solutions are offered by Smart Mini LED or OLED TVs, such as the Sony BRAVIA 7 Mini LED TV and BRAVIA 8 OLED TV. The brightness of the 7 Mini LED TV is unrivaled, and the OLED 8 brings you closer to true blacks when you watch movies. The BRAVIA 7 has a starting net price of Php 156,999 and offers more size options. At Php 131,299, BRAVIA 8 offers the best cinematic experience thanks to its high quality and stylish design. In any case, both large screens provide an amazing view and will be available for purchase in time for Christmas.

A bonus: Complete your home entertainment set-up with the BRAVIA Theatre Quad for Php 144,449.

And Snap! Take a Shot of Life’s Priceless Moments

Christmas is so beautiful and magical that it makes everything around you feel cozy. Although everyone's experiences are unique, we all want to digitally record these moments as they occur. Whether it's sharing a chorus song or raising a glass of champagne with loved ones, we feel more driven than ever to document these moments on camera.

Although smartphones have made it simpler to capture memories, a camera offers better quality for more intricate moments. It's fun to give cameras as gifts because we can see how other people value the moments from their point of view. In every picture, its feelings are strong and unadulterated.

Our recommendation: The Sony A7C II mirrorless camera is a great gift that produces high-quality images, so you might want to think about giving a camera that is as adaptable as its future owner. Additionally, it can record 4K videos without the bulk and complexity of a professional camera, which can be confusing to inexperienced camera users. The FE 16-25mm F2.8 G and FE 24-50mm F2.8 G lenses are a perfect match for this. With its flip-out screen that can be used for both portrait and landscape recordings, the most recent ZV E10 II vlogging camera is also a good substitute. For people who like creating content for social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, it's a useful tool.

Bonus gear recommendations: Consider gifting a gear boost with an ECM-M1 Shotgun Microphone or an ECM-S1 Streaming Microphone, which is fit for closed spaces like singing or content shooting.

With all of these suggestions, keep in mind that the key to selecting the ideal gift is balancing usefulness and thoughtfulness. Even though some of these devices are more functional or oriented toward style, they are still presents that will make the season more cheerful. We therefore hope that you will rediscover the joy and spirit of giving precious things this Christmas. Ultimately, the greatest presents are given with love and sincerity, which will make this season genuinely unforgettable.

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the vision of "continuing to deliver Kando and Anshin(*) to people and society across the world through the pursuit of technology and new challenges," Sony Corporation supports the Sony Group with technology to create the entertainment of the future together with creators. For more information, visit: http://www.sony.net/

*Both Japanese words, Kando means emotion and Anshin has various meanings such as peace of mind, reassurance, reliability, and trust.