APRIL 2019 www.lopezlink.ph

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Isang milyong kwento na puno ng saya, aksyon, kilig at pag-asa mula sa SKYdirect Story on page 6

Seeds of WSummer…page 12 First Gen recurring Hope: Pillow skin care earnings up 51%…page 2 talk…page 9 tips…page 12

 Lopezlink April 2019 FPH attributable First Gen recurring RNI up by 53% earnings up 51% FIRST Gen Corporation re- (P17.8 billion), or 16% to $2.0 “2018 was an exceptional FOR the year ended December FPH also increased by P4.4 primarily driven by higher sale ported recurring net income billion (P103.8 billion) from year for First Gen as we con- 31, 2018, recurring net income billion or 76%, from P5.9 bil- of electricity following favor- attributable to equity holders $1.7 billion (P86.0 billion) in cretized value from the sizable (RNI) attributable to First Phil- lion to P10.3 billion, reflect- able spot market prices and the of the parent of $243 million 2017. The natural gas portfo- investment made for the mod- ippine Holdings Corporation ing the growth in RNI slightly effectivity of the San Gabriel (P12.8 billion) in 2018. This was lio accounted for $1,240 mil- ern 420-MW San Gabriel nat- (FPH) reached P10.4 billion, reduced by net nonrecurring plant’s power supply agreement a 51%- or an $82-million (P4.6 lion (P65.1 billion), or 63% of ural gas-fired power plant. This higher by P3.6 billion or 53% losses booked during the year with Meralco; higher comple- billion) surge from $161 million First Gen’s total consolidated was made in anticipation of the compared to last year’s P6.8 largely on account of unfavor- tion and sales booking of (P8.1 billion) in 2017, mainly revenues. Their revenues were market’s increased electricity billion, driven by the stronger able forex movements. Rockwell’s residential develop- from the strong contribution of 20% higher in 2018 mainly due demand and the need for new operating results of the group’s The FPH Group’s total reve- ment projects; higher earnings the company’s natural gas busi- to the aforementioned strong cost- competitive power sup- energy, real estate, construction nues increased by P20.5 billion, from construction and leasing ness that delivered recurring performance of the natural gas ply to the grid. The 1,500-MW and manufacturing businesses. or 20%, from P104.9 billion in contracts; and higher volume of earnings of $186 million (P9.7 plants. Santa Rita and San Lorenzo Net income attributable to 2017 to P125.4 billion in 2018 electrical transformer sales. billion) versus $120 million Energy Development Cor- natural gas-fired plants contin- (P6.0 billion) previously. poration’s (EDC) geother- ued their reliable performance Annual Meeting Dates The company’s attributable mal, wind and solar revenues incorporating the technical April 25: net income in 2018 of $221 accounted for $652 million upgrades we have invested in ABS-CBN, Dolphy Theater, ABS-CBN Compound, 8am million (P11.6 billion) was 65% (P34.2 billion), or 33% of total over the years that effectively May 8: First Gen, The Fifth, Rockwell Events Hall, 10am higher from 2017. Its newest consolidated revenues. reduced the power rates to con- May 10: FPH, The Fifth, Rockwell Events Hall, 10am natural gas-fired plant, the 420- FG Hydro, owner of the 132- sumers. We are now focused on May 29: Rockwell, The Fifth, Rockwell Events Hall, 9am megawatt (MW) San Gabriel MW Pantabangan-Masiway firming up our future direction June 11: Lopez Holdings, The Fifth, Rockwell Events Hall, 9am flex plant, benefited from sig- hydroelectric plants, reported with the LNG regasification nificantly higher dispatch and higher revenues at $36 million terminal investment in partner- revenues. (P1.9 billion). The hydro plants ship with Tokyo Gas. First Gen’s numbers were accounted for 2% of First Gen’s “Our geothermal platform, likewise made better by lower total consolidated revenues. through EDC, likewise made a interest expenses and higher The absence of ancillary service remarkable recovery in the sec- interest income as a result of sales in the first quarter of 2018 ond half of 2018 with the fast- the group’s deleveraging and re- was partially offset by the hydro er-than-expected recovery of financing initiatives. Savings in plants’ higher volume sales to its Unified Leyte plants from interest expense and the receipt WESM and higher spot mar- the outage caused by natural of insurance proceeds likewise ket prices in 2018. calamities in 2017, coupled offset unrealized foreign ex- Consequently, the recurring with higher sales volume and change losses and higher de- attributable earnings contribu- more attractive selling prices. ferred taxes. tion of $6 million (P0.3 billion) We expect EDC to continue First Gen’s consolidated rev- in 2018 was less than the previ- to outperform this year,” First enues from the sale of electric- ous period’s $8.0 million (P0.4 Gen president Giles Puno ity increased by $271 million billion). said. ABS-CBN wins Platinum award at the ‘Reader’s Digest’ Trusted Brands Awards ABS-CBN continues to earn Presenter, while fellow “TV Pa- consumers’ trust, winning its trol” and DZMM Radyo Patrol fourth consecutive Platinum 630 anchor Ted Failon won Brand Award at the “Read- Most Trusted Radio Presenter. er’s Digest” Trusted Brands On the other hand, respon- Awards. dents chose “It’s Showtime” Thousands of Filipinos across and “Gandang Gabi Vice” the country were surveyed to host Vice Ganda as the Most rate different brands based Trusted Entertainment/Variety on their trustworthiness and Presenter. credibility, quality, value, un- This year marks the ninth derstanding of customer needs, consecutive year that ABS- innovation and social respon- CBN was formally acknowl- sibility. The Platinum Brand edged by the “Reader’s Digest” Award is given to “brands that Trusted Brands Awards. perform exceptionally, winning Since its launch in 1998, their category with a score that the “Reader’s Digest” Trusted vastly outpolled their nearest Brands Awards sought to dis- ABS-CBN wins its fourth consecutive competitor.” cover the majority’s preference platinum brand award from Reader’s ABS-CBN personalities also and standards in buying or sub- Digest Trusted Brands Awards earned the highest trust ratings, scribing to a service by com- winning awards in other cat- municating with consumers markets: the , Sin- egories. who can vouch for each of the gapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong “TV Patrol” anchor and vet- brands’ quality. and Taiwan. Fifty categories of eran broadcast journalist Noli For the 2019 edition, about products and services across a de Castro won Most Trusted 8,000 individuals were surveyed broad range of industries were TV News and Current Affairs across five of the region’s key included in the survey. Biz News Lopezlink April 2019  ABS-CBN stays on top On its fifth anniversary By Kane Choa SKYBIZ is choice business solutions provider of enterprises

ABS-CBN remained unbeat- of choice. 41%, beating GMA’s 33%; in able in March, leading it to re- “Maalaala Mo Kaya” (28.7%) Total Visayas where it scored cord an average audience share kept viewers inspired and 57% compared to GMA’s 23%; of 47%, or 17 points higher “Halik” (24.5%) had them and in Total Mindanao where compared to GMA’s 30%, ac- hooked. Also part of the top it garnered 56% versus GMA’s cording to data from Kantar 10 list are “Rated K” (22.2%), 25%. Media. “Wansapanataym” (21.9%) ABS-CBN also won across Still leading the list of most and “Home Sweetie Home” all time blocks, particularly in watched programs in March (21.6%). the prime time block where SKYBIZ head Jon Arayata is “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” Meanwhile, the Kapamilya it garnered an average audi- (42.4%). It is followed by “The network kept its lead nation- ence share of 50%, or 20 points General’s Daughter” (32.3%), wide, particularly in Metro higher than GMA’s 30%. Like- SKYBIZ has earned praise Briann Alix stated: “We’re very in the know and ahead of our which triumphed over a new ri- Manila where it hit an average wise, the Kapamilya network from its business partners for happy with our three-year re- needs which makes us more in- val program with almost double audience share of 44% versus reigned supreme in the morn- being a reliable provider and lationship with SKYBIZ. SKY terconnected with our businesses the viewership. GMA’s 24%, and in Mega Ma- ing block where it registered enabler that allows them to use has always been a reliable partner in the Philippines.” the best digital tools for entre- in all of our broadband require- “World of Dance Philip- nila where it got an average au- 38% compared to GMA’s 28%, Bryan Zarzuela, IT head of pines” (31.5%) is the leading dience share of 38% compared in the noontime block where preneurs and big enterprises for ments and they’ve always pro- Pilipinas Teleserv, pointed out: program on Saturdays and Sun- to GMA’s 30%. it hit 48% versus GMA’s 29% more growth opportunities. vided what we needed as a BPO “We choose SKYBIZ because - company.” of its competitive rates and the days, while “TV Patrol” (30.9%) ABS-CBN topped in To- and in the afternoon block with Inviting clients to the “Phan stayed as the Filipinos’ newscast tal Luzon where it registered 49%, beating GMA’s 30%. tom of the Opera” musical is Rizj Zamora, president and company’s reliability…” one way for SKYBIZ to give CEO of Indra Corporate Ser- SKYBIZ’s business part- back and nurture its business vices Philippines Inc., shared: ners recently came together as relationship with key clients. “I’m very thankful for that re- the business solutions provider ABS-CBN, Ever Bilena enter joint “For us, it’s all about partner- lationship we have with SKY- feted them to celebrate its fifth ships and we’re looking into the BIZ, it’s very convenient, it’s anniversary. venture for new cosmetic brand long-term basis, and since we very easy and, so far, we haven’t Grow with clients make a lot of changes to make had any downtimes. We are “We envision to grow the ABS-CBN is entering into a portation of raw materials, cosmetic products that are af- our products and services more very happy with the service.” company and engage more cli- joint venture with Ever Bilena finished goods, packaging ma- fordable and with good qual- unique, SKYBIZ has continued Group head and director of ents. We want to make sure that Cosmetics Inc. to develop a terials, machinery and equip- ity,” ABS-CBN said. to partner with us to share the Human Resources and Corpo- we grow their business with new cosmetics brand. ment, ABS-CBN told the Ever Bilena’s strength in best experience for our clien- rate Services for Zalora Phils. them, be it in broadband or pay It will invest in a joint ven- stock exchange. production, distribution and tele,” Solaire vice president for and logistics company Entrego TV,” said Jon Arayata, head of ture corporation with Ever ABS-CBN will subscribe to development and ABS-CBN’s Hotel Operations Gianpietro Fulfillment Solutions Phils. SKYBIZ. Bilena to engage in the busi- P1.25 million out of the total expertise in marketing promo- Iseppi said at an event for SKY- Flip Ruby noted how SKYBIZ “We are very grateful to all ness of manufacturing, pro- initial capital stock of P10 mil- tions and talent development BIZ’s business partners held at helped in growing their business: the businesses in the hospitality duction, trading and sale, on lion, the statement said. will be beneficial in launching the Solaire on March 20. “SKYBIZ has great reach in and BPO sector that graced the wholesale or retail cosmetics, “The two industry leaders a cosmetic brand, the statement Reliable partner terms of connectivity and has a event and celebrated with us,” including purchase and im- aim to provide consumers with said. For his part, Admerex Solu- reliable internet connection. We he added. tions chief marketing officer are very much in the loop, we are With the fiber network in Promos & offers place, SKYBIZ is able to deliver fast and business-grade broad- NBA Premium TV 2+1 promo band services. Until April 30, SKYcable sub- news and specials with the for the next two months via for P200/month and in HD These include business-grade scribers can get their fill of live NBA Premium TV 2+1 pro- SKYcable Select and get the for P350/month. Visit mysky. fiber broadband connections NBA games daily, along with mo. Just add NBA Premium third month free! NBA Pre- com.ph/nbapromo or call that may be bundled with other basketball magazine shows, TV to the channel lineup mium TV is available in SD 418-0000 to subscribe. data and content services like BIZTV HD, which is powered Catch up on ‘Game of Thrones’ via HBO GO on SKY by SKYcable, and BIZTV Di- An epic throwback awaits online streaming service 16Mbps subscrib- rect powered by SKYdirect. “Game of Thrones” fans as gives subscribers a chance ers who have HBO For SMEs, it offers the BI- SKY exclusively offers free to watch the world’s best in their cable lineup Zbroadband Connect plan, access to HBO GO, giving movies, HBO Originals and free access to HBO which includes business-grade them a chance to relive the more through the website Hits, HBO Family broadband with no data caps, television series anytime, or mobile app. Subscribing and HBO Signa- 24/7 technical support, static IP anywhere until Apr. 15. Sea- to the app also gives digi- ture. Download and domain registration for one son 8 of “Game of Thrones” tal SKYcable and SKY Fi- HBO GO in time year. will also premiere at 9am ber Unli Broadband + HD for the premiere of 8! Visit mysky.com.ph/freeh- Visit skybiz.com.ph to find on Apr. 15. The HBO GO Cable TV Plans 8Mbps and “Game of Thrones” Season bogo for details. out more about the products and services of SKYBIZ. Follow us @lopezlinkph on Twitter and Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/lopezlinkonline

 Lopezlink April 2019 couch potato treats Kuya names new set of teen Viewers smile on ‘Nang housemates in ‘Pinoy Big Brother Otso’ Ngumiti Ang Langit’ By Kane Choa The pilot episode of “Nang Ngumiti Ang Lan- A new set of stories will delight group successfully com- git” on March 25 scored a national TV rating of and touch the hearts of viewers as pleted the challenge. 15.8% compared to “Hiram Na Anak,” which got the second batch of teen house- Meanwhile, as the eight only 8.9%, according to data from Kantar Me- mates was announced in “Pinoy entered Kuya’s house, Star dia. In the episode, Ella (Kaye Abad) saw how Big Brother Otso.” Dreamers Jem Macatuno, the rift between the Salvadors and the Villalunas Entering the house on April 6 Shami Baltazar, Narcy started. Over time, she fell in love with Michael were Mich Wunder, Yen Quirante, Esguerra, Batit Espiritu, Villaluna (RK Bagatsing), but their love would Angela Tungol and Shoichi Oka, Lance Carr, Ashley del result in the death of her brother Eric (Rafa while welcomed on April 7 were Mundo, Emjay Savilla and Siguion-Reyna). “Nang Ngumiti Ang Langit” Tan Roncal, Kyzha Villalino, Al- Gwen Apuli were asked to airs every morning before “It’s Showtime.” fred Beruzil and Sheena Catacu- join Camp Star Hunt. tan. Before being trimmed It didn’t take long before An- down to eight, the 16 gela, Shoichi Yen and Mich were hopefuls initially faced faced with their first challenge challenges via the “The Big as official housemates: to navi- Island Adventure.” gate an obstacle course and open Watch “PBB Otso” ev- Kuya’s house using one of them ery night on ABS-CBN. as a human key. Because of their Viewers can also tune in every af- Kapamilya Gold. Follow “Camp iWant for catch-up episodes and teamwork and determination, the ternoon to “PBB Otso Gold” on Star Hunt” and “PBB Otso” on livestreams for both houses.

‘The Hows of Us’ Weekends are more productive with ‘My Puhunan’ WEEKENDS are more productive are bringing magazine health and public ser- exclusively streaming on and inspiring as Karen Davila de- hope and inspi- vice program anchored by Alvin iWant PPV livers the success stories of Filipino ration during Elchico, Bernadette Sembrano- entrepreneurs in “My Puhunan,” weekends. “The Hows of Us,” the highest-grossing- Fili Aguinaldo and Jing Castañeda- on its new time slot every Satur- “ M i s s i o n pino film of all time, finally lands exclusively on Velasco, kicks off Sunday morn- day morning at 6:30 a.m. on ABS- Possible” an- iWant starting April 12. The record-breaking ings at 7:30 a.m. CBN, with replays every Tuesday chored by Ju- movie featuring Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Watch “My Puhunan,” now on after “Bandila.” lius Babao also Padilla and directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina its sixth year, on its new time slot The program hopes to reach and made its debut will be available via pay-per-view on iWant, the every Saturday at 6:30 a.m. Catch inspire more viewers to start their on its new time only streaming service in the country that will the replay on its old time slot, own business and find another slot on April stream the hit flick. Get hooked over and over every Tuesday after “Bandila” on source of income that can help 6 at 6 a.m. again on “The Hows of Us” on iWant via its iOS ABS-CBN. It will continue to air their family and community. Meanwhile, or Android apps or via web browser on iwant. on DZMM TeleRadyo and ANC Apart from “My Puhunan,” two “Salamat Dok,” ph. every Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. and more shows from ABS-CBN In- the Philip- Thursday at 1:30 p.m., respectively. tegrated News and Current Affairs pines’ only live ‘My Puhunan’ host Karen Davila (K. Choa) FCPC Baliktanaw is first ‘World of Dance Philippines’ champ HIP-HOP powerhouse FCPC sent the country in the qualifiers Baliktanaw from the team division round of “World of Dance USA.” sealed their supremacy on dancing FCPC Baliktanaw became as they were hailed the first “World known for its hip-hop dance of Dance Philippines” champion routines with a uniquely Filipino on April 7. flavor. The team bested its two cofinal- Upper division’s Luka and Je- UP students’ piece ists after garnering a total com- nalyn secured the first runner-up bined judges’ score and text votes spot as they impressed everyone headlines Class Project of 99.05%. They took home P2 with their dance routines, which Winners fest million and an all-expense paid earned them a score of 96.38%. Ju- What happens when traditional religious be- trip to Los Angeles as prizes. nior division’s Ken San Jose, who liefs collide with reality? Students from the As the competition’s winner, scored 94.93%, was named the sec- University of the Philippines explore this topic the dance crew will also repre- ond runner-up. (K. Choa) in “Pasan,” which details the experiences of a devout Catholic and gay man who is both re- vered and shunned as he portrays Jesus Christ Iñigo, Wengie collab for ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ in the Lenten tradition. “Pasan,” which won the IÑIGO Pascual is set to captivate I’ve been so overwhelmed. I’m so Wengie Music that features her top prize in ABS-CBN’s Class Project Intercol- more listeners as he partners with grateful,” said Iñigo. own hit singles. legiate Mini-Documentary competition, head- Australian YouTuber Wengie for a Aside from working with Wen- Iñigo is also a VJ and one lines the Class Project Winners’ Festival airing new single entitled “Mr. Nice Guy.” gie, Iñigo is scheduled to team up of the hosts of the online show on every Friday at 7:30 This collaboration with the Chi- with more international artists and “One Music POPSSSS.” p.m. and currently streaming on iWant. The rest nese- Australian singer will be part release another collaboration single The rising performer is among of the finalist documentaries will air weekly on of Iñigo’s upcoming sophomore in May. the Kapamilya artists slowly break- Knowledge Channel until May 10, and will also album under ABS-CBN Music Wengie is a lifestyle vlogger and ing into the international music be available on iWant. Don’t miss the Class Proj- Iñigo Pascual and Australian YouTube International. voice actress who currently has 13 scene as ABS-CBN continues to ect Winners Festival on Knowledge Channel on sensation Wengie “I was surprised to be offered million subscribers on her self- champion Filipino talent on the ABS-CBN TVplus, SKYcable and SKYdirect; to work with someone from YG. titled YouTube channel. She has world stage. “Mr. Nice Guy” on digital stores and on iWant.ph. I’ve been a K-Pop fan for so long. several other channels, including Watch for Iñigo and Wengie’s this April. (K. Choa) Councils Lopezlink April 2019  Biz Excellence ‘Musika at Misyon’: OFY upholds vision of Ang Misyon THE Orchestra of the Filipino more training in playing their Youth (OFY) held its first con- instruments. cert for 2019 at the Sun Life As part of the OFY mem- Amphitheater in BGC Arts bers’ learning experience, they Center, Taguig in February. are exposed to different types of A pre-Valentine’s Day per- events and venue settings. Se- Ang Misyon president Federico R. Lopez and his wife Monina Lopez, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray reacts to the music of OFY during her formance, the repertoire in- lected members were present at Benedicto Sison and Alex Narciso of Sun Life Foundation enjoy the Orchestra homecoming arranged by ABS-CBN cluded classic pieces by Wag- ABS-CBN in February to wel- of the Filipino Youth concert ner, Handel and Schumann come Miss Universe 2018 Ca- and local songs such as Rey triona Gray, playing a few spe- Valera’s “Kahit Maputi Na Ang cial pieces as she walked down Buhok Ko,” one of the crowd the red carpet. Gray swayed favorites. to the music and engaged the The concert began with the crowd before proceeding to the sunset as backdrop—the perfect studio. The young musicians setting for an early evening ser- continue to captivate the hearts enade for families, couples and of their audience when they children. perform, whether it is for a big This concert celebrated not crowd or an intimate gathering. only the OFY’s first perfor- As the summer season ap- mance of the year, but also proaches, stay tuned for updates officially introduced Ang Mi- on upcoming events and con- syon Children’s Orchestra certs featuring the Orchestra of composed of the younger tier the Filipino Youth and the very of scholars who show musical promising Children’s Orches- promise although requiring tra. The Orchestra of the Filipino Youth and Ang Misyon Children’s Orchestra at their joint performance in Sun Life Amphitheater conducted by Joshua Dos Santos LAA Roadshow, Winners’ Summit showcase ‘best

By Ayie Volpaneof and Ross the Hamo best’ of the Lopez Group; LAA 2019 launched LOPEZ Group kapamilya One of the highlights of the representing 15 companies day was the sharing of the best joined the Lopez Achievement practices and lessons learned by Awards (LAA) 2019 Road- the representatives of the win- show and Winners’ Summit ning teams. held at the Rockwell Business Customer focus category Center on March 27. Representing the sole winner In his welcome remarks, in the Customer Focus catego- program director Benjamin K. ry for the achievement titled Liboro encouraged the par- “Moonchasers.ph: Mastering ticipants to make the most out TV-Digital Integration to Cre- L-R: Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. president Rina Lopez-Bautista, LAA program director Benjamin K. Liboro, program codirector Anna Karina Gerochi, of the sharing of best practices ate an Immersive Fan Experi- Erlindo Angcoy Jr. and Kathleen Aloran and lessons learned and to par- ence” by the DMD Operations ticipate in the Q and A. Team of ABS-CBN, digital Inspirational message strategist Kathleen Aloran dis- In her inspirational message, cussed their venture into their Rina Lopez-Bautista, presi- first and also the country’s first dent and executive director of TV-integrated microsite, www. Knowledge Channel Founda- moonchasers.ph. tion Inc., reminded everyone Operations management about the real value of winning category the LAA. Erlindo Angcoy Jr., Leyte “The LAA is not just about Resource Management head, L-R: Debonaire Mamhot, Gerald Oro and Marco Cabrera, Valerie Dy-Sun and Mattel Soliven the award or the prize money. representing the sole winner in The real reward comes from the Operations Management the lives that you’ve touched, category, presented “Incred- transformed and made better ible Resilience: EDC-LGBU’s with the Lopez Values serv- Return to Service After 6.5- ing as your compass, your true Magnitude Earthquake” by the north! The LAA trophy is just LGBU Crisis Management a symbol, a reminder of how Committee and Return-to- much of a difference you’ve Service Team of EDC. He re- made, not only for the com- called how their team restored pany that you work for, but also EDC LGBU to full operations for the people that you serve,” L-R: Jingkie Ongan, Jeff Canoy, Jen Santos, Liezel Salagubang, Jose Pascual and Agustin Zaragosa she said. Turn to page 11

 Lopezlink April 2019

L-R: Marvin Laparan, a SKYdirect subscriber from Davao del Norte, was featured in one of the two testimonial TVCs of SKYdirect; Corporation president & COO March Ventosa thanks dealers and distributors in his speech during the SKYdirect sales conference on March 5; Abigail Ng Sy, SKYdirect product head; Dho Gaerlan, SKYdirect sales head; SKYdirect reaches out to subscribers nationwide through SKYdirect JAM in malls with a celebrity feature, games and prizes; installation of satellite dishes along major highways; and sales blitzes in barangays and small towns across the country ISANG... various programs. Adana and three-year-old direct-to-home more than ready to make an Jaja Suarez, head of the Con- “The LOB [line of busi- from page 1 her husband also get to bond (DTH) service, which blazed to imprint on the DTH market. sumer Products Group, says: “The ness] and programming teams watching basketball or romantic the 1-million subscriber mark Launched in May 2016, SKY- goal is to reach every Filipino and strategized on the best plans for SKYDIRECT for Papa— movies on SKYdirect. Seeing her this March. It took a “village” of direct attracted wais subscribers give them access to better content Filipino homes. They delivered a this was Marvin Laparan’s family happy watching shows hardworking dealers, distributors, initially with the promise of “cable experiences, meaning a wider fixed, carefully curated channel reason for getting SKYdirect they love just takes away Adana’s subscribers and the SKYdirect na pa-load-load lang”—just like range of entertainment including lineup that’s backed by research for their household in Davao stress from a day’s work. team to reach such a milestone. cellphones or beep cards—and al- kids’ and infotainment programs, and ratings,” reveals Ng Sy. del Norte. A subscriber from Misamis Setting up SKYdirect lowed families to load when they with clearer HD reception, and HBO, Nickelodeon, Cartoon The young man wanted to Oriental shares that the first thing When SKY Cable Corpora- are able to, without being tied to at a value they can afford.” Network, Disney Channel and give back by taking care of his his balikbayan sibling bought tion entered the DTH market in contracts and monthly fees. Post- “SKYdirect’s most important AXN are some of the top-rat- father, who was sick and stuck at upon arriving was a flat-screen May 2016, the oldest player had paid plans were also introduced a role is to deliver entertainment ing sources of premium cable home. With their prepaid SKY- TV and a SKYdirect kit because had a 15-year advantage (before couple of months later. and information to our Kapami- content that delight viewers. direct subscription, the elder their mother wanted to watch fizzling out in 2017). Two other “There was a perception that lya in far-flung areas who would In this aspect, SKYdirect had Laparan was able to have his fill channels “as clear as the moon.” satellite TV providers had a SKY, because it was concen- otherwise not get them via cable some help from the country’s no. of Tagalog movies on Cinema From Iloilo, a satisfied cus- combined head start of 16 years. trated in urban areas and offered or terrestrial TV,” states SKY 1 network. “The unique proposi- One. In time, the rest of the tomer reports: “Kahit maliit TV SKY had been trying to get postpaid plans, was solely for the Cable Corporation president tion of SKYdirect is its ability to Laparan family became hooked namin, sobrang napasaya ko pami- its own DTH product off the high-tier market. With SKY- and COO March Ventosa. “We offer high-quality, world-class on SKYdirect and now have lya ko. Ang SKYdirect talaga nag- ground for several years. Even direct, we were able to show that are happy to provide access to content through ABS-CBN their own favorite channels. bibigay liwanag at saya sa amin.” as the company waited to be SKY is accessible to all segments local and international news, and Inc. with Rose Adana, a working In nearby Aklan, another awarded its license to operate, the of the market,” says SKYdirect blockbuster movies, our local channels such as , mother from Ilagan City in Isa- subscriber rejoices over SKY- SKY engineering team quietly head Abigail Ng Sy. ABS-CBN shows, documen- Jeepney TV, ANC, YeY, CineMo, bela, shared that she subscribed direct’s high-definition chan- acquired materials and equip- Every home a SKY home taries and educational shows ABS-CBN Sports + Action and to SKYdirect for her children. nels that saved him from daily ment and started building the SKYdirect does what it does to Filipinos wherever they may other must-have channels that Unlike her who wasn’t able to climbs onto the roof to adjust systems needed to offer DTH. because of its dream to spread be—from Batanes at the north- are relevant to every member of watch cable TV when she was their TV antenna. When it was finally granted “wow at saya” by reaching even ernmost tip to the highlands of the family,” Ng Sy notes. younger, her children now enjoy These are just some of the its license by the National Tele- more Filipinos nationwide and Benguet, to the beaches of Pala- SKYdirect currently offers English cartoons and even learn feel-good anecdotes from SKY- communications Commission making every Filipino home a wan and down south to Sulu.” five prepaid variants with view- from Knowledge Channel’s direct subscribers regarding the in late 2015, the company was SKY home. Ventosa also cites the ing options for all members of importance of SKYdirect’s the family for as low as P99. Meet the Team partnership with Knowledge Streamlined lineup The power team that paved the way for SKYdirect to hit the 1-million subscriber mark (top row, l-r): Dino Quizon, Mico Marco, Jerome Almirante, Zar Francia, Channel Foundation Inc. led Suarez points out that the Ricky Semilla, Cholo de Guzman, Joy Lantin, Leo Cui, Cora Santiago, Jovit Gregorio, Nicci Sison, Morrys Sarmiento and Jelo Reyes; (Bottom row, l-r): by Rina Lopez-Bautista, which streamlined channel lineup Gold Bernardino, Shelay Diaz, Ed Pahate, Dho Gaerlan, Suzette Virtucio, Lani Brazas, Abigail Ng Sy, Consumer Products Group head Jaja Suarez, Mallet dates back to 2016. meant more efficient operations, Garbida, Charles Ng, Jen Velasco, Alan Supnet, Gidgette Faustino and Arlene Torres The alliance has allowed while the learning curve for dis- SKYdirect to support the tribution was “almost negligible” education of children in public on the part of SKYdirect. elementary schools through “We were able to tap dis- highly engaging content from tributors and dealers who were Knowledge Channel in line already knowledgeable about with the K-12 program of the the business. Therefore, we were Department of Education. able to execute distribution very Best plans fast,” Suarez adds. With DTH already on the Another upside is that SKY- radar of Filipino consumers, direct’s competitors were able SKYdirect simply sweetened the to educate customers and make pot for more “wow at saya.” This them appreciate the benefits of meant offering top-rating chan- DTH. nels as well as putting in place “Ultimately, having these a robust distribution system to competitors is healthy as they make SKYdirect easily acces- provide valuable market insight sible to customers anywhere in and force us to continuously the Philippines. innovate towards services that Milestones 2013 typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban 2016 acquires some 120,000 sub- 2018 2019 Under its then unbranded di- SKYdirect is officially launched scribers Hits the 500,000-subscriber Reaches 1 million subscrib- rect-to-home (DTH) service, 2015 in May, initially offering only mark in March ers who enjoy top-rating SKY deploys satellite dishes to After years of preparing its prepaid plans 2017 Grows distributor network entertainment and news, 10 viewing stations in order to application, SKY receives the Rolls out postpaid packages After only 16 months, SKY- to 55, from only 35 in 2016; and “wow at saya” service, in provide information and en- green light for its DTH service in July direct generates 400,000 pre- dealer count, meanwhile, rises March tertainment to the victims of which it calls SKYdirect By December, SKYdirect paid and postpaid subscribers from 1,000 to 1,776 Lopezlink April 2019  This is one reason SKYdirect By Carla Paras-Sison goes out of its way to foster ties with its dealer-partners, states LITO Mapolon, head of Core “never-ending change” and says reach of SKY’s internet service. Gaerlan. Network and Engineering it is “a consequence of being in Mapolon assures that the team “Unlike with our competitors, at , the forefront of technology.” is committed to “the delivery of our dealers take part in our sales worked first in academe and He copes through diskarte reliable service and execution of conferences alongside the dis- then in manufacturing before (strategizing) and continuous the planned capacity and cover- tributors and employees. We fly finding his true joy in the cable learning. “To overcome challeng- age growth.” them in so they can experience TV industry. es, we have to study and analyze Among the Lopez Values, what it’s all about. When you talk He started in 1994 as a one- the conditions. If it’s technical, Mapolon says nationalism and to them, they’re happy because man team designing cable systems there are very few modules that business excellence resonate they feel that we value them.” for Country Communications are immediately available, except with him. For Gaerlan, the next order of Network Inc. (CCNI), a CATV from vendors, which are usually Source of pride business is to widen SKYdirect’s (community antenna television) biased for the technology they “SKY allowed me to per- reach even further: “Since we service that was acquired by SKY are selling. Fortunately, there is sonally serve (our countrymen) have a lasting advantage in the “The distributors’ main func- were successful with our distribu- the following year. From that first now the internet and materials even if I did not enter public life. marketplace,” says Ng Sy. tion is to invest by buying the tors-dealers model, we’re now assignment, he learned indepen- from experts with experience I feel the joy of reaching out to As the national sales head kits from us, which they then going down to the sari-sari store, dence and resourcefulness, which in certain systems we want to fellow Filipinos through the ser- for SKYdirect, Dho Gaerlan sell to the partner-dealers and electronics store level, like the tel- is something he now tries to study,” he says. vices we provide, to uplift their has to ensure that the new subscribers. We talked to the cos with their reloading stations.” model to his team of 160. Growth mode quality of life. This is aligned product was available to poten- dealers individually and encour- Ng Sy simply promises more “CCNI was a small operator, Mapolon wants SKY to with my personal aspirations tial customers in every part of aged them to carry SKYdirect.” “wow at saya” for SKYdirect’s Growing subscriber base yet we were expected to deliver remain as the best pay TV pro- to be of service. As for business the country. He discloses that current and potential subscrib- what the customer required. In vider in the country and hopes excellence, I believe we have a selling SKYcable was easier To boost efficiency as they ers: “Along with our marketing SKY, you could say we have that with SKYdirect in growth contribution from technology because they focused only on grew the subscriber base during campaigns, we continuously en- more resources, but in reality, mode, SKY will regain domi- toward business excellence. It is the specific areas where it was the first year, some SKYdirect gaged and delighted them with they are still limited compared nance in local pay TV. “I want a source of pride when we apply present. distributors covered four or five regular acquisition and loading to the volume of deliverables and to see SKY overtake the com- technology firsthand so that we “SKYdirect on the other provinces, while a lone distribu- promotions. We will continue client expectations, especially petition and to continuously can be at par with, if not ahead hand was available nationwide tor took charge of an area with to bring happiness to Filipino now that SKYdirect and broad- dominate.” He also aspires for of, competitors who have much right from the start, so we had high market potential. families and hopefully be part of band coverage are expanding. SKY to be the preferred inter- bigger resources.” to be very smart in the way we “They were out in the field 2 million homes.” The initial reaction would be to net service provider. Mapolon encourages “Lo- promoted ourselves and spread literally every day, talking to Aside from their new 2-mil- think we can’t do it (on tight re- It was Mapolon and his pezLink” readers to dig deeper our resources,” Gaerlan notes. dealers,” Gaerlan recalls. lion target, Suarez adds another sources), so my first struggle is to team that provided the techni- into the reason they are able to The sales team started with In a short period, the team “BHAG” [Big Hairy Audacious convince the team that we can. I cal study that supported the read and access “LopezLink.” 35 distributors in 2016, growing has almost doubled its dealership Goal] for SKYdirect: “To be able challenge them as engineers. We application of SKYdirect for “It’s not because it’s free, the number to 55 distributors network to 1,776, covering 1,211 to lower the price of our box and know that engineering is about the necessary permits from the or we picked up a copy some- in 81 provinces by 2018. The towns nationwide. Up to three dishes so that the service be- effectiveness and efficiency,” National where, it’s because we are part sales head adds that employing dealers may be assigned per town comes even more accessible. Mas says Mapolon who is himself Commission. of the Lopez Group. And the the distributorship model was a depending on the household maraming masayang Pilipino, a professional electronics and “We had to justify that we Lopez Group companies are pivot for the company. count and subscriber base. mas okay!” communications engineer. were technically competent to not employers only. This -or Digital deployment build and operate a DTH (di- ganization, our organization He was part of SKY’s rect-to-home) service. In fact, has a mission and if we dig With SKYdirect, even schoolkids get ‘wow at saya’ digital deployment when SKY we were able to launch and op- deep internally, we know we first switched to digital pay TV erate almost immediately after are aligned with its mission. SKYDIRECT is an active from the “problematic” analog the release of the permits.” We know we are here because stakeholder in solidifying the system. His team was also in- The team is now tasked to oper- we are personally satisfied that overall CSR program of SKY strumental in SKY’s becoming ate and maintain the SKYdirect there is alignment between that is learning-centric, dedi- the first to commercially offer system in addition to the SKY- the corporate mission and our cated and sustainable, and one ultra-high-speed broadband in cable system. Another ongoing personal joy.” that creates richer stories and the country at 200 mbps. major initiative is expanding the richer lives that began as early As he logs his 25th year as 1996. of service this year, Mapolon’s To date, SKYdirect has biggest challenge is working in donated prepaid kits to around a totally new environment “in 57 Knowledge Channel Foun- terms of technology, the way dation Inc. partner schools Basco Central Elementary School in Batanes receives a SKYdirect prepaid kit in June 2017 you deploy, how our customers nationwide, enabling young appreciate our offerings, even students to have access to an in the approach.” He calls it the engaging system of learning. Thus, SKYdirect is able to nur- ture Filipino students’ poten- tial, especially in public schools in far-flung areas where tools such as modern media are still rare even today. Families affected by the 2017 Marawi crisis enjoyed the Pacquiao-Horn fight on top of SKY representatives, together with SKY president and COO March Ventosa news and other entertainment and KCFI president Rina Lopez-Bautista, donate to Valentin Macasaet programs as SKYdirect and Memorial Elementary School in Palawan in June 2018 ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapami- lya Foundation Inc. (ALKFI) the stress and anxiety of the dis- with SKYdirect becoming one provided viewing stations in placed families amidst the clash of their main sources of infor- evacuation centers in the ba- between government troops and mation and entertainment. rangays of Santa Elena, Maria Islamic State-linked groups. On top of this, SKYdirect Lito Mapolon: Cristina and Buru-un in Iligan SKY has also allotted 32 has partnered with ALKFI and City, and Poblacion, Balo-i in kits for use in military camps “TV Patrol” in donating pre- Lanao del Norte. The viewing Man on a mission and navy personnel deployed paid kits to schools in Batanes, stations aimed to help alleviate in various parts of the country, Bulacan and Antipolo.

 Lopezlink April 2019 Corporate Sustainability Bantay Kalikasan, CFMC team up to repair daycare center By Jen Santos and Marlon Tamsi

Members of the KCFI board of trustees led by Rina Lopez-Bautista, Carlo L. Katigbak, Cory Vidanes, Atty. Maria Amina Amado, Edric Calma and Danie Sedilla- Cruz with DepEd representatives and school officials in Rizal KCFI board visits Rizal public schools By Michael Ramos

WITH the aim of deepening schools in Morong, Rizal re- partment of Education supervi- tion of school achievements grassroots partnerships with cently. sors, heads of different schools from Bernie Tolosa, a teacher at AS part of the area develop- post-harvest facility as part of public schools, six members of The whole-day immersive in Morong, and the principals, Bombongan Elementary School. ment approach of Bantay Ka- their partnership with Bantay the board of trustees of Knowl- experience gave the board mem- students and teachers of Bom- Yapak Elementary School likasan and the Ipasa ang Pag- Kalikasan. edge Channel Foundation Inc. bers an opportunity to observe, bongan Elementary School and in the mountains of Rizal was asa project of the Calategas Magbanua shared her joy (KCFI) visited two partner interact and commune with De- Yapak Elementary School. the next stop. The school’s six Farmers Marketing Coopera- and gratitude for the support The group made its first stop classrooms have on-demand tive (CFMC), much- needed that their daycare center has in Bombongan Elementary access to Knowledge Channel assistance was extended to received. She reported that the School, where all 13 classrooms via external hard drive for its Damsite Child Development donation was used to procure Teen scientist have access to Knowledge Chan- 100 students. Center in Calategas, Narra, a TV set for enrichment learn- nel through a digital satellite re- The KCFI board members Palawan. ing, two wall fans, 10 gallons of inspires Knowledge ceiver or DSR donated to them spent some time observing In late 2018, child develop- paint, 10 bags of cement and in 2011. Each board member classes and interacting with the ment worker Corazon Mag- 30 meters of floormats. CFMC was paired with a KCFI em- teachers, students and commu- banua expressed the need for provided labor as well as the ad- Channel interns ployee and assigned a classroom nity members. repairs to the daycare center. ditional fine sand used for the where they observed teacher- The visit was capped off with CFMC through its president, construction. MORE than 80 Knowledge student interactions with the a debrief conducted by Ateneo Danny Cabiguen, volunteered Twenty-two daycare Channel interns were able to use of Knowledge Channel. de Manila professor PJ Maria- to carry out the labor com- students aged 3-4 years old meet, greet and listen to Hillary A discussion followed be- no-Capistrano and photo ops ponent as a way for them to currently benefit from the Diane Andales, the 17-year- tween the board members and with the students and teachers spread the hope and joy they improved learning environ- old Filipina who won the 2017 principals as well as a presenta- of Yapak Elementary School. experienced after receiving a ment. Breakthrough Junior Challenge, in a Learner’s Circle event held at ABS-CBN on March 15. Andales shared her journey to This ‘Instagrammable’ site in Samar winning the annual global com- petition for students that inspires creative thinking about science. will help residents earn a living By Althea Cahayag She submitted an original video explaining Albert Einstein’s Hillary Andales A new ecotourism site awaits minimal landscaping along the Through the funds donated Bantay Kalikasan implemented theory of relativity in a fun and travel enthusiasts in Samar—a pathway. to Operation Sagip after typhoon the project to provide livelihood easy-to-understand format in in producing the video and pas- place where one can have an Meanwhile, Bantay Ka- Yolanda struck the area in 2013, to the residents of Brgy. Literon. under three minutes. Andales was sion for the topic or subject. adventure on a hanging bridge, likasan assessed the area to praised for being able to commu- Andales revealed that it take “Instagrammable” photos know how deep the waters are nicate such a complex concept was actually her parents and on a view deck with Lulugayan and to designate sections where into something easily digestible. Knowledge Channel that made Falls as the background or just guests can swim. “Throughout this whole her love science. take a plunge! Jun Figueroa, Bantay Ka- process, I was guided by this “Knowledge Channel was Barangay Literon Women’s likasan operations manager one principle—if you can’t ex- a very formative channel in my Association and Lulugayan for the Yolanda-affected areas, plain it simply, then you can’t childhood. I remember watching Falls Tour Guides are the new- said: “This activity was initiated understand it well enough,” she ‘Sineskwela’ and ‘Epol Apol’ when est assisted people’s organiza- to encourage camaraderie and said. “You have to really get it I was in grades 1 and 2. Palagi ako tions of Bantay Kalikasan. The volunteerism among members down to the simplest terms to nanonood noon,” she said. two groups led an activity where of the associations as they are transmit that message effec- The Learner’s Circle is part of 40 participants composed of the about to work together to man tively to other people.” the Knowledge Channel Volunteer organizations’ members, Bantay the new ecotourism site.” She also shared tips on mak- and Internship Program or KCVIP Kalikasan and 87IB 8ID of Aside from taking “Insta- ing effective educational videos, held for Knowledge Channel in- the Philippine Army worked gram-worthy” photos, visitors which included a lot of pains- terns as part of their career and skills together to clear the way to the can also dine in a restaurant that taking research, time and effort development. (M. Ramos) falls. They also implemented will serve local and organic food. Lulugayan Falls Museum/Values Lopezlink April 2019  Special Feature ABS-CBN celebrates 65 years in the service Ongoings of the Filipino with audience tributes By Kane Choa

ABS-CBN expresses its grati- “In the Service of the Filipino” tude to its audience by featur- and this has been the North ing on “TV Patrol” the stories of Star for Kapamilya employees Filipinos whose values, charac- since then. ter and triumphs have inspired Today, ABS-CBN serves the the Kapamilya network through public through free television, the years. digital , ra- The first of the three initial dio, cable, music, publications, THE library services of Lopez stories premiered on March internet content and services, Museum and Library (LML) 27 and was also posted on the publications, live events, rec- will be temporarily closed start- ABS-CBN Entertainment reations parks and support for ing November 12, 2018 due to YouTube channel as part of sports. its transfer to a new location. the network’s celebration of 65 ABS-CBN’s advocacies Library services will resume in years of being in the service of Anthony Bendo; Enrique Vista and Rowena Vista; and Ryan Canda and public service programs the first quarter of 2019. the Filipino. cover child welfare, relief and Future visits to the Lo- It features Ryan Canda, a group from Cebu reached The wena to a nice dinner. He took home from an overseas job. rehabilitation operations dur- pez Library may be booked talent show contestant who Cut Round and his story went a chance by joining DZMM’s Helping Anthony stay moti- ing calamities, environmental by appointment. Forms and was born with a cleft palate. viral as people were touched “Once Upon A Heart” contest. vated and inspired to work hard protection, livelihood and instructions for library ap- He had to develop a talent by his determination to pursue With luck on his side, he was were the drama programs he health care, among many oth- pointments will be available that does not require speech so his dream and prove himself to finally able to take his wife to watched on TV. ers. ABS-CBN now serves on the LML website in the that he could find his place in the world. a romantic date as the contest’s ABS-CBN introduced Filipinos all over the world first quarter of 2019. a milieu that bullied him. He Enrique Vista, meanwhile, winner. television in the Philippines and is also exporting enter- Please look forward to got into dancing and found is a person with disability or Anthony Bendo also has a in 1953. In 1967, ABS-CBN’s tainment content for the non- LML’s future projects and the perfect stage to show the PWD who is unable to earn touching story to tell. His fam- first chairman, Eugenio “Geny” Filipino audience in Asia, watch its social media pages world what he’s got in “World enough for the family and could ily became economically-chal- Lopez Jr., said that ABS- Africa, Europe and South for updates. of Dance Philippines.” His not afford to take his wife Ro- lenged after his father returned CBN’s motto will forever be America. Seeds of Hope By Dulce Festin-Baybay The pillow artists of Bantay Kalikasan Here is another successful and sus- to create a more sustainable to us by Seeds of Hope. Here, we tainable CSR project story, this way to give back to the eco- as mothers were taught that it is time from Bantay Kalikasan of youth club, a social enterprise good to dream in spite of our ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya was created with environmental poverty and to follow our dream. Foundation Inc. (ALKFI). The advocacy at its core.” Together with our dreaming is project has not only impacted Changing mind-sets making sure that our surround- the lives of its 35 members, but Through Bantay Kalikasan ings are always clean, especially their items have also helped their site specialist Joy Endraca, the our rivers. My children’s eyes customers have a pleasant sleep mothers of the eco-youth club were opened regarding the knowing that the pillowcases they members were organized to be- importance of clean rivers and bought are helping make lives come Seeds of Hope. At the core surroundings,” Pura shares. better. The idea for this article was of the project is a drive to change Joshua Fajardo and Rommel Estabaya (2nd and 3rd from right) with fellow pillow artists (from right) Karylle Escoto, Sustainable income inspired by Bantay Kalikasan the mind-set and behavior of the Jason Mendoza and Koryne Pangilinan during a shoot for Gina Lopez’s ‘G Diaries’; Seeds of Hope team leader Joan The project started with no head Jen Santos whose son uses the household in managing their Pura money. But with the members’ attractive and colorful pillowcases waste and eventually reducing persistence in collecting trash By Althea Cahayag sold by the members. the waste they generate. eventually become members environmental discipline. a tricycle driver and his step- by the seaside and segregating SOMETIME in 2016. An This is how they do it. First, of Seeds of Dreams as regular “Being an artist and role mother is a housekeeper. the plastic, they were able to eco-youth club called Seeds of the household assesses the trash pillow painters. model helps enlighten the “Being an artist in the Seeds slowly earn. Dreams was launched at the they are producing, and sees The pillowcase artists minds of my community and of Dreams project has been a Pura’s income from cutting Lola Sayong Eco-Surf Camp that segregation and compost- Joshua Fajardo first learned makes a difference in their per- big help to my studies and also and stripping plastic helped in Sorsogon province. ing are the initial natural steps about the projects of ALKFI’s ception,” he adds. to my papa,” explains Estabaya. to augment her fisherman- According to Mik Dizon, the they should undertake. Bantay Kalikasan through their For Rommel Estabaya, it “I do not ask money anymore husband’s irregular income and Bantay Kalikasan site specialist From the segregated waste, television programs. was also through television that from my papa to support my provide for their two children. overseeing Sorsogon, their camp the single-use plastic foil wrap- “I got to know more about he learned of Bantay Kalikasan studies. And with the ‘loving “Even if I am just an el- community partner adopted pers, for example, are given new Bantay Kalikasan when an artist and Endraca, who introduced nature’ content of my painting, ementary school graduate, I re- Seeds of Dreams as their “give- life or upcycled to become pil- introduced me to Ate Joy End- him to site specialist Dizon. It I hope to inspire others through alize that I can still be a teacher back” activity to the youth. lows. Each pillow is derived from raca, who explained the vision/ became Estabaya’s dream to be my art pillow pieces.” and influence others with my The project gathers children a converted 1.5 kilos of single- mission of the pillow project. I part of the project; he pursued it Joan Pura, Seeds of Hope environmental advocacy. I be- to teach them about the envi- use plastic foil waste transformed joined the project because of my by managing his time between team leader, became involved lieve that even if I did not have ronment through such activities into functional art by the artists. gift of painting and I enjoyed do- being a pillow painter and stu- with the project because of her enough education, I can teach as art, music, games and movies. Volunteer mothers wash ing my share for environmental dent. He also made sure that he children who joined the Seeds others based on my experience. I “Lola Sayong Eco-Surf and cut the plastic into strips care,” says Fajardo in Filipino. knew what his priorities were. of Dreams Eco-Youth Club am not ashamed to speak before Camp has been very supportive and use these as fillers for the Fajardo, who finished his With five siblings, Estabaya organized by Endraca. an audience because I know that of this through the provision of pillows. The local volunteer art- degree in agricultural technol- is currently taking up a course “We were enjoined to be each of us can do something to a safe area for the kids to play ists then hand-paint the canvas ogy, finds the project quite in technology, major in archi- responsible environmentalists help and be part of the solution and learn, and free meals in ev- pillowcase in support of this challenging as it helps him tectural drafting, at Sorsogon especially when it comes to regarding the waste problem,” ery session,” says Dizon. “And green initiative. These artists manage his time and provides State University. His father is throwing our garbage, as taught Pura says.

10 Lopezlink April 2019 Lifelong Wellness Tree-spotting at the WTT Protect your eyes from Text and photos by Gerbs de Castro the sun’s UV radiation By Charizze Henson AROUND 400 participants at- along the path; prizes were giv- tended the Lopez HR Council- en to the first 30 participants to Lopez Lifelong Wellness Walk submit their selfies. the Talk (WTT) at the Ninoy Twelve trees were identified: Aquino Parks & Wildlife Cen- alibangbang, balitbitan, banaba, ter (NAPWC) in bolong-eta, dao, kamagong, kaa- on March 23. toan-bangkal, molave, narra, The WTT was hosted by talisai, siar and supa. Energy Development Corpora- Prizes were also given to the tion (EDC) and OML Center. first 20 individuals to complete OML Center executive director Dr. Rodel Lasco and EDC CSR head Atty. Allan In his welcome remarks, the word scramble of OML Barcena; Maj. Rolly Vargas of EDC; OML Center’s Perlyn Yoshida OML Center executive director Center climate icons, as well as Dr. Rodel Lasco spoke about the first 20 to complete - “Cli the need to translate knowledge mate A-Z,” which challenged Asian Eye Institute cornea and external disease specialist Dr. Sharlene into action. He stressed: “Our them to list climate issues that Noguera presence here today means we start with each letter of the al- do not just know things, but phabet. WE know the dangers of too or you are in the shade,” says we also apply what we know, so Among those present at the much sun exposure to the eyes. Noguera. “Although UV ra- let us put our advocacies in ac- WTT were EDC heads Beth But how and why does it hap- diation levels are highest under tion.” Nasol of Human Resource pen? cloudless skies, UV radiation Atty. Allan Barcena, EDC Management and Ireneo Ito- “Our eyes are very sensitive,” can still penetrate through the head of Corporate Social Re- ses of Facilities Operations and explains Asian Eye Institute clouds. sponsibility, followed with a Maintenance and Technical cornea and external disease spe- “Having dark lenses does talk on the BINHI program. Services, and First Balfour Hu- cialist Dr. Sharlene Noguera. not mean these can protect you Walkers get ready to spot their targets The walkers were prepared man Resources and Adminis- “Just like our skin, our eyes are from the sun’s UV rays. Take for the two-kilometer trek tration head Caloy Salonga. prone to short-term and long- your sunglasses to your provider around the compound by the The NAPWC is a 22.7- term damage when consistently to evaluate if your lenses can lively exercises led by an in- hectare zoological and botani- exposed to large amounts of the block 99% of the harmful UV structor from Gold’s Gym as cal garden. It has a lagoon, an sun’s ultraviolet rays.” rays. Reputable optical shops well as a safety briefing from JP aquarium, a playground, botan- There are two basic types of usually have instruments to Tiglao of EDC. ical garden and a wildlife rescue ultraviolet (UV) rays—UVA measure how much UV radia- OML Center’s Kato center, which the Department and UVB. UVA rays penetrate tion your lenses can block.” Sarmiento introduced an added of Environment and Natural more deeply as they can pass Eyeglass wearers can now twist to this edition’s WTT, the Resources uses as a temporary through the cornea and affect protect their eyes from UV rays tree spotting activity, in part- shelter for wild animals. Inci- the lens and the retina. They are through prescription sunglasses nership with BINHI. Walkers dentally, the NAPWC is one of usually linked to development or transition lenses. Mirrored or took selfies with the Philippine the sites of BINHI tree-plant- of cataracts and age-related polarized lenses can also be ap- Hot on the trail of the Philippine native trees; Emcee Mic Noriega of EDC native trees that could be found ing activities. macular degeneration. UVB propriate if you plan to go out rays, on the other hand, dam- for a drive or go to the beach; age the cornea and lead to eye these lenses do not give as much First Balfour hosts 50th anniversary football cup growths, including pterygium UV protection, but they cut off By Jemecho Torayno (pugita) and pinguecula. There the glare. is also cancer on the eyelids. Finally, Dr. Noguera advises: AS part of the yearlong cel- EDCFG United FC and GHD This time, Rockwell FC got well-loved sport in the Philip- Filipinos are at higher risk “You do not need to be scared ebration of its 50th anniversary, FC. back on the winning track to pines. for eye problems from UV ra- of going out, especially on sun- First Balfour hosted its first Javier Bonoan from Rockwell claim the finals match with 1-0 In his opening speech, First diation. Noguera says: “It is be- ny days. Just make sure you have football competition at SPAR- FC was named Most Valuable against NovaBala FC. Balfour president Anthony L. cause we are living in a tropical enough eye protection. Do not TA, Mandaluyong on March Player of the tournament after ABS-CBN Kapamilya Utd, Fernandez bared plans to organize country. We are closer to the forget to see your ophthalmolo- 16, 2019. leading his team to the top spot. on the other hand, clinched the football match yearly to build equator, so there is less ozone. gist, too, if you experience any Seven teams from various Finals rematch a podium finish by dominat- up partnerships across companies The ozone layer filters the UV changes in your vision.” Lopez Group companies and Rockwell FC and NovaBala ing the free kick round against and industries—the primary aim radiation from the sun and the First Balfour partners compet- FC previously clashed in 2018 CLJV FC after their match of this year’s tournament. thicker it is, the more filtering it ed in the tournament. during the finals match of the ended in a draw. First Balfour also thanked provides.” Sports & Wellness Rockwell FC emerged as Enerhiya Cup organized by Love for football the teams representing ABS- She adds: “UV levels are also calendar the champion, followed by No- Energy Development Corpo- Men and women, millennials CBN, Cebu Link Joint Venture, higher when highly reflective APRIL vaBala FC in second place and ration (EDC), where NovaBala and “non-millennials” as well as EDC, First Gen, GHD Philip- surfaces like water and sand are 13: Runkitek, 3K/5K/10K ABS-CBN Kapamilya Utd in FC claimed the championship players coming from places as pines, NovaBala Joint Venture present. This means having a (SM by the Bay, Pasay), third. Other teams included and Rockwell FC settled for far as Europe joined the match, and Rockwell Land for taking job that entails working under 4am. Fee: P700-P850. Reg- CLJV FC, EDC Premier FC, second place. a testament to how football is a part in the football cup. the sun and near the water also ister at runkitek.com puts you at risk. In fact, there 14: NatGeo Earth Day are a lot of patients who work Run, 3K/5K/10K/21K as traffic enforcers, resort staff (SM Mall of Asia, Pasay), and seafarers.” 2am. Fee: P800-P1,450. Children as well as people Register at runrio.com who have had cataract surgery, 28: End Polio Run, have light-colored eyes and are 5K/7K/10K (CCP taking photosensitizing drugs Complex, Pasay), 4am. are also susceptible to eye dam- Fee: P500-P800. Register age. at tinyurl.com/endpo- “Remember to wear sun- lioPH2019 The winning teams with First Balfour executives Anthony L. Fernandez and Macky de Lima and other officials glasses even when it is cloudy

Follow us @lopezlinkph on Twitter and Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/lopezlinkonline Interactive Lopezlink April 2019 11 Sudoku Eats By Jannine Sy Maglaro tayo ng Sudoku, ang bagong libangan ng bayan! Ayusin lamang ang mga numero simula 1 hanggang 9 para ang bawat nu- mero ay minsan lang magagamit sa bawat row, column at kahon. Cold treats to get you through the summer IF driving up to higher altitudes, Kefir ice cream (P140/1 Meet the refined, more so- taking a dip in the pool or fly- scoop, P260/2 scoops, phisticated sibling of the ba- ing out to cooler parts isn’t an P420/pint) nana split. Its color palette and option right now, diving into a Dean & DeLuca, Edades Tower combination of textures are the cold treat is something worth and Garden Villas complete opposite of the tradi- exploring. Go on a mini escape Kefir ice cream is like frozen tional dessert. But you’d be sur- with these cold, yummy treats at yogurt, but creamier, denser prised that this simple concoc- Rockwell Center. and more scoopable. Dean & tion is just as comforting and DeLuca’s refreshing variety satisfying. comes in several flavors, includ- The thought of layers of shaved ice, ing plain, lychee, peach, passion milk, macapuno, ube, leche flan, fruit, raspberry and mango. Ask gulaman, sweet beans and kaong your server which pastry goes topped with toasted pinipig and well with kefir so you can have homemade Milky Way ice cream it à la mode. A must-try is their is enough to make anyone drool. ultra-dense molten Valrhona It’s hard to resist anything that’s chocolate cake (P380)—every called “the biggest and the best spoonful will. BLOW. YOUR. halo-halo since 1962.” If you’re MIND. craving more ube ice cream, you’ll be delighted to know that it’s also available in tubs! Strawberry milkshake  Very Easy  Easy (P195)

 Medium Carmen’s Best, R2 Level PHOTOFROM@BUCKYSNOTABROWNIE  Hard Imagine chilling in Baguio and Carabao milk soft serve biting into freshly picked straw- berries. Fuel your imagination Bucky’s, Stall 1, The Grid, R2 Level with a strawberry milkshake Indecision and crankiness— from Carmen’s Best. Carmen’s symptoms of the summer heat Best may serve cold treats, but getting you down. What better Answer to MARCH 2019 puzzle they truly have the warmest ser- than a classic soft serve to help Solution, tips and vice. If your brain freezes when Caramelized banana with you keep your cool. Bucky’s is a computer program vanilla ice cream no-brainer when you’re looking picking a flavor, they’ll be more Halo-halo (P225) available at than glad to give you a taste to Ooma, Edades Tower and Garden for something simple, no-non- www.sudoku.com help you decide. Milky Way, P1 Level Villas sense and yummy.

LAA... ment, “Mitigating Losses ity category. She talked about “Di Ka Pasisiil” has received lion seedlings that have been Ross Hamo provided the from page 5 Through the ASPA Market: “Kwento ng Pagbangon: The numerous awards, including planted around La Mesa Wa- aspiring teams, nominators First Geothermal Facility to Transformation of Sabang the Gold World Medal at the tershed. and new employees with a in the shortest time possible Successfully Implement Regu- Daguitan Surf Camp” by New York Festivals, a historic His excellent care of seed- brief overview of the Lopez after an earthquake caused lating Reserve Ancillary Ser- Bantay Kalikasan in Sabang first for ABS-CBN Integrated lings in the nursery led to the Achievement Awards, the massive damages to its power vice in the Philippine Power Daguitan, Leyte. News, and a Certificate of Cre- 92% success rate of the refor- Unsung Hero Awards and plants and facilities. Business Management Market.” Jingkie Ongan, Bantay Edu- ative Excellence from the US estation of La Mesa. the Lifetime Achievement category Mattel Soliven, Digital kasyon head, representing the International Film and Video Pascual expressed his grati- Awards. Marketing and Partnership second winner in the category, Festival. tude in his speech. He also led the launch of Valerie Dy-Sun, vice presi- head of ABS-CBN represent- presented their achievement Liezel Salagubang, Wa- “Nagpapasalamat po ako sa LAA 2019, which had the dent for Finance of First Gen ing the third winner in the titled “Bantay Bata 163: The tershed Management officer, aking mga boss… Ang aking theme “Playing to WIN!” Corporation, representing Business Management cat- Hope at the End of the Line” represented the fourth win- taos-pusong pasasalamat sa in- Closing remarks one of the three winners in egory, expounded on “ABS- by ALKFI. ner in the category—“Beans yong lahat, lalo na po sa Lopez Anna Karina Gerochi, pro- the Business Management CBN’s Unilever Story Studio: For the past 21 years, Ban- of Hope: From Kaingeros to family at sa bumubuo po ng gram codirector, closed the category, presented “Asia’s The Partnership that Pays Off ” tay Bata has been at the fore- Green Warriors” by the NIG- Lopez Achievement Awards. event with a recap of the day’s Largest Voluntary Tender by The Dream Team of ABS- front of protecting children. BU-CREW of EDC. Marami pong salamat!,” Pas- events. Offer in the Power Sector: CBN. It has four pillars—Bantay “Failon Ngayon” head writer cual said. “It all begins with courage The Entry of Macquarie and The team initiated a part- Proteksyon, Bantay Edu- Gerald Oro and multime- The other 2018 Unsung and the heart and the willing- The Government of Singa- nership with Unilever that kasyon, Bantay Kalusugan dia producer Marco Cabrera Hero, Agustin Zaragosa, prop- ness to go through some pain pore (“GIC”) Into Energy led to the creation of Unilever and Bantay Pamilya—which teamed up to discuss “Pamana erty and administration officer and sacrifice to achieve those Development Corporation Story Studio or USS. With have served a total of 36,525 ng Mina,” he fifth winner in of Genata Holdings Corpo- aspirations. Well and good, (EDC)” by Project Terra of this partnership, ABS-CBN children at risk and those in the category. ration, is based in Guimaras, for after all, as they say, pres- First Gen. showcased its capacity and ca- abusive situations nationwide “Pamana ng Mina” brought Iloilo. He expressed his thanks sure creates diamonds and The transaction involved pability to be a content partner, in 2017 alone. viewers to the different min- via video. fire refines gold. I really feel the P65-billion investment of going beyond its role as a me- Documentarist/reporter Jeff ing sites in the country and “I would like to thank the blessed to be part of the team Macquarie and the govern- dia placement network. Canoy represented the third opened their eyes to the Lopez Group and the Lopez that brings out the diamonds ment of Singapore into EDC, Public Responsibility winner in the category, “Docu- harmful effects of irrespon- family for giving me the op- and gold of the Lopez Group which put an end to the 10- category Central: Chasing the Truth in sible mining. portunity to become the LAA so they can share their bril- year search by First Gen for an Five entries won in this cat- the Midst of War.” Unsung Heroes Unsung Hero. Gusto ko rin liance all across the Group,” ideal partner in EDC. egory. DocuCentral, the docu- In 2018, two kapamilya magpasalamat sa nag-nomi- she said. Debonaire Mamhot, head of Jen Santos, program direc- mentary arm of ABS-CBN emerged as Unsung Heroes. nate sa akin…. Sa inyong lahat, Master of ceremonies Ana the PAL2 Production, Negros tor of Bantay Kalikasan of Integrated News, produced One of them is Jose Pas- nagpapasalamat ako sa inyong Junio of ALKFI and Batch Facility of EDC representing ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapami- two documentaries on the cual, ALKFI project super- concern at pagmamahal,” said Palacio of Rockwell Land con- the second winner under the lya Foundation Inc. (ALKFI), siege of Marawi—“Di Ka visor. From the time that he Zaragosa. cluded the event with the an- Business Management catego- represented the first winner Pasisiil” and “Paglayang was hired in 2000, he has LAA 2019 launch nouncement of the major raffle ry, reported on their achieve- in the Public Responsibil- Minamahal.” produced more than a mil- LAA program manager prize winners. 12 Lopezlink April 2019

Collated by Karina Tropicales What’sfrom ABS-CBN Publishing new this April DPWH Sec. Mornington Peninsula with contributing writer Marilen Fontanilla. Then, travel to Mark Villar India with Nicole Tantoco-De los Reyes and see the destination that gives expe- covers the riences and sights like no other. (Justin ‘Metro Society’ Alexandra Convento) Men’s Issue All you need Say hello to the new fashion season Psychologist Lissy Puno with the “Metro Society” Men’s Is- to know about sue, a no-holds-barred moment for homeschooling is tackles ‘couple goals’ men’s style! Leading the pack is Psychologist and relationship therapist Lissy Puno has penned a back- family man and DPWH Sec. Mark in this book! to-basics interactive guide for readers to better know themselves and Villar, while the annual “Men in Edric Mendoza and Joy Mendoza their significant other in ABS-CBN Books’ “Couple Goals: Find the Suits” feature is all about the mod- share their experience in homeschool- love and connection that last forever in this world full of ‘I give up, ern gentleman. Also in this issue, ing their children in “Why You Should let’s break up!’” “Couple Goals” also serves as a journal of memorable sit in the front row at “Garden with Homeschool” published by ABS-CBN moments where readers can paste photos and write about their firsts. Wings,” the premier show of Sofie. Books. Divided into five parts, “Why The journal is available in leading bookstores for P195. B, the fashion brand of designer You Should Homeschool” talks about Get the newest issues of your favorite magazines at leading bookstores Sofie Borromeo. Talk men’s fashion the learning climate today and offers an and magazine stands nationwide. To download, users on Android devices with Signet guys Edie Lim and Tom overview of homeschooling, the Philip- must download the Zinio app from the Android Market. The app is also Sing in Versus and get style lessons pine context, a step-by-step guide, and available through the iPad App Store. PC and Mac users can access Zinio from fashion editorials featuring survival tips and tricks. Discover why at zinio.com. You may also subscribe to your favorite ABS-CBN Publish- Zegna, Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Givenchy and Tommy Hil- homeschooling may be good for your children. Grab a copy ing magazines or purchase current and back issues by logging on to http:// figer. In the “Wine & Food” feature, fly to Melbourne to the of “Why You Should Homeschool” for only P450. store.abs-cbn.com/categories/Magazines/Current-Issues/.

THE ABS-CBN STORE FINDS THE ROCKWELLIST GUIDE By Jannine Sy Summer essentials WHILE a sun-kissed complexion is a nice souvenir from your beach trip, keeping skin protected from the sun’s harsh rays is just good sense. After all, nobody wants painful red burns, or for skin to age prematurely. So, before you head outdoors, brush up on these summer skin- care basics. Adjust your skin care routine and cleanse gently. Use a mild cleanser morning and night to keep your pores free of dirt. You can also reward your skin with a facial mask you can apply at home. Co- cokind Chlorophyll Mask detoxes, boosts complexion and reduces inflammation without drying your skin. It’s made from chlorophyll, organic spirulina and wheatgrass, which clear and soothe the skin. Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. Prevent skin from cracking with hydrating mists that keep your skin in tip-top shape. Thayers Cucumber Facial Mist helps retain moisture because of Eyes on the Fly cucumber’s natural vitamin B5 content. It soothes the skin and re- Make a statement at the beach with official licensed University duces irritation, making you feel fresh with every spritz. Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) sunglasses If you spot any skin discoloration and want to protect and treat from Fly Shades! Each pair of #UAAPxFlyShades sunglasses your skin, try Mad Hippie Hydrating Nutrient Mist. Packed with an- Mad Hippie Hydrating Nutrient Mist; Thayers Cucumber Facial Mist; and features a UAAP school logo and comes with a matching zip tioxidants and hydrating essentials, it leaves your skin soft and supple Cocokind Organic Chlorophyll Mask and Mymatcha Overall Moisture Stick case. Available for P450 a pair at Fly Shades kiosks in malls while reducing the appearance of redness and discoloration. It has and online at www.uaapstore.com. (Pia de Leon) ginkgo biloba and vitamin C, two vital ingredients for brighter skin. reducer, dry spot treatment and corrector, cuticle cream, stretch mark Cocokind Mymatcha Overall Moisture Stick is a multitasking eliminator and acne treatment rolled into one. And would you be- Editorial Advisory Board Mike Lopez / Boo Chanco miracle that keeps your skin hydrated. It’s also a lip balm, dark circle lieve this multipurpose balm only has three key ingredients (organic Executive Editor Carla Paras-Sison virgin coconut oil, yellow beeswax and matcha tea powder)? Contributing Editors Don’t forget the sunscreen. This may sound like a no-brainer, Yiessa Borbon (Lopez Holdings) Hazel Velasco (FPH) but wearing a sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protec- Estela de la Paz (First Gen) Arlene Torres (SKYcable) tion and at least SPF 30 is the one thing you shouldn’t forget. Kane Choa (ABS-CBN) Vienn Tionglico (Rockwell) Since you need to reapply sunscreen every few hours (more of- Karina Tropicales (ABS-CBN Publishing) Dulce Baybay (LGFI) ten if you’re swimming or sweating), you definitely need to stock up Dimpy Jazmines (SKYcable) Jei-Jei Gertes (Third Gen Holdings) for the summer. Go for a lightweight and nongreasy formula like Gerbs de Castro (EDC) Frances Ariola (EDC) Derma-E Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 30 or Mad Circulation Kelly de la Paz Hippie Facial SPF 30. And because they’re both formulated with Editorial and Layout Mousetrap Publishing nano-free zinc oxide, they go on clear and leave no white residue. LopezLink is published by Lopez Holdings Corp. PR Group You can also choose a reef-friendly alternative with All Good 16/F North Tower, Rockwell Business Center - Sheridan Unscented Sunstick or Sunscreen Butter. All Good products are Sheridan St. corner United St. made with organic ingredients that are friendly not just to your Mandaluyong City skin, but to the environment too! Tel. 878-0000 ext. 2463 All Good Unscented Sunstick and Sunscreen Butter; Mad Hippie Facial SPF Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Applying sun protection can only Available online at www.Lopezlink.ph 30; and Derma-E Natural Mineral Sunscreen and Sun Defense Mineral Oil-Free go so far. Staying hydrated enhances your well-being and helps Sunscreen SPF 30 keep you feeling great on the inside and out!