NEWS
Japan, UNICEF provide educational tablets to Region VIII learners
July 29, 2022 3:37 p.m.
The Government of Japan and UNICEF Philippines turned over 400 educational tablets containing digital learning materials in select mother tongues of Eastern Visayas to support at least 800 Samar and Norther Samar learners classified as non-readers and struggling readers.
As young children learn most effectively in their mother tongue, the tablets will be provided to Grades 1 to 3 learners of 30 schools to support the development of their foundational skills in early literacy.
This is part of the UNICEF-supported Learning Recovery Programme being rolled out by the Department of Education (DepEd) Region VIII, which aims to mitigate learning loss caused by school closures during the lockdowns in the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aside from the digital learning materials, Japan and UNICEF are also supporting the development of the Comprehensive Rapid Literacy Assessment in Mother Tongue and the training needed to effectively utilize the tool.
This is a crucial intervention, as results from the administered assessments will determine learner profiles and necessary interventions needed for each student.
“Today’s event is a testament to our commitment to helping every child learn despite the most difficult circumstances. We have always believed in meeting children where they are. Providing them with resources in the language they know best, through digital learning, will give them the confidence and skills needed to become lifelong learners,” said UNICEF Philippines Chief of Education Isy Faingold.
To further make instruction more conducive for learners, UNICEF will also roll out a professional development programme to capacitate teachers and school heads on effective early literacy strategies.
The Government of Japan’s support is part of its US$ 2.5 million donation to UNICEF Philippines through its Humanitarian Assistance for Asia Pacific.
Since the start of the pandemic, Japan has donated $5.87 million (approximately PHP 331 million) of COVID-19 assistance to the Philippines through UNICEF.
“I am hopeful that this intervention will be effective in mitigating learning loss on children that is aggravated by the pandemic. As a long-standing partner of the UNICEF, the Government of Japan is grateful to add this programme to our roster of development cooperation with the UNICEF Philippines,” said First Secretary KANNO Chihiro from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.
All schools in the Philippines were closed between March 2020 and October 2021 due to the pandemic and Filipino children mostly experienced distance learning as way to continue education. This has aggravated a serious learning crisis in the country, leaving the most marginalized children further behind. However, with DepEd expressing plans to re-open in-person classes in all schools in late 2022, efforts are now focused on learning recovery. The Government of Japan and UNICEF Philippines remain committed to working with DepEd in ensuring that every Filipino child regains all learning lost during the pandemic.
NEWS
Join the league of retail leaders: Why top brands call SM home
7:47 p.m. September 30, 2034
As consumer expectations evolve, SM Supermalls continues to lead the way, not just in expansion but in completely reimagining the mall experience. Partnering with global and local industry leaders, SM creates an unmatched platform for brands to thrive in the competitive Philippine retail market.
Why Brands Choose SM: The Perfect Partnership for Growth
More than just a shopping destination, SM Supermalls offers retailers strategic advantages that extend beyond leasing space. With millions of visitors each year and a comprehensive approach to marketing and customer engagement, SM gives brands the tools they need to succeed. Here’s why top global and homegrown retailers prefer SM:
- Unmatched Visibility and Foot Traffic
SM Supermalls are strategically located in key cities across the Philippines, ensuring high foot traffic and exposure to diverse consumer demographics. For brands looking to break into the Filipino market, this visibility is critical for building awareness and driving sales.
- Integrated Marketing Support
SM partners benefit from extensive marketing initiatives, including in-mall promotions, digital innovations, and social media campaigns that extend the reach of new store openings, product launches, and events. SM ensures that each new partner gets the spotlight it deserves.
- A Hub for Innovation and Global Firsts
From first-in-the-country experiences to unique retail concepts, SM consistently attracts pioneering brands that shape the future of retail. For example, the first Disney Store in the Philippines has opened its doors at SM Mall of Asia, providing an immersive retail experience for families. In the culinary space, two viral sensations have chosen SM to be their first home in the country. Burger & Lobster, a London-based favorite, is opening soon at SM Aura, offering an exciting new dining experience. Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyuhas fired up its stone grills, bringing authentic beef-style katsu to Filipinos at SM Mall of Asia.
- Collaborative Business Ecosystem
SM Supermalls offer more than just retail space—they foster an ecosystem where businesses can thrive. SM provides brands access to a robust support network, enabling collaborations, strategic partnerships, and a future-focused approach to business growth.
What’s New at SM? Experience the Best, First
SM’s dynamic retail portfolio continues to grow, bringing globally and locally loved brands to Filipino consumers. Some of the latest additions include:
● Disney Store at SM Mall of Asia – The first of its kind in the country.
● Burger & Lobster at SM Aura – A world-renowned London eatery.
● Venchi at SM Podium – Italy’s famous chocolatier and gelateria.
● Allbirds at SM Megamall – Opened its first store at SM.
● National Geographic Store at SM Aura – The first in the Philippines.
● Maison Margiela, Le Labo, Aesop, and Victoria’s Secret at SM Mall of Asia – Top luxury and lifestyle brands.
● Sunnies World at SM Mall of Asia – An experiential concept store of the local cult favorite brand.
These brands have chosen SM for the strategic opportunity to grow their presence in the Philippines, where they can access an ever-growing and diverse consumer base.
Partner with SM: The Future of Retail Awaits
There’s more to come at SM Supermalls as we continue to push the boundaries of retail, transforming our malls into thriving communities where businesses and consumers alike can grow. Whether through flagship stores, exclusive partnerships, or innovative retail concepts, SM is the partner of choice for brands that want to make an impact in the Philippine market.
Stay connected with SM Supermalls and discover more about how we’re reshaping the future of retail. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow us on @SMSupermalls for exclusive previews and updates.
Contact Us Today
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
SM Supermalls
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Website URL]
NEWS
Paradise Dynasty now open at Greenbelt 5
September 29, 2024
Paradise Dynasty’s #WorldsFamous 8 colored Xiao Long Bao Now Open at Greenbelt 5, 3rd Level, Ayala Center, San Lorenzo, Makati City.
Follow their socials:
Social media accounts:
fb: @paradisedynastyph
IG: @paradisedynastyph
NEWS
Jordan Brand’s New Tatum 3 delivers lightweight feel, adaptable performance
1:41 p.m. September 25, 2024
A gold medal. A championship ring. A hunger for more.
After winning on the greatest stages in the game this summer, Jayson Tatum is back for another NBA season — ready to rise to the occasion in his latest signature shoe, the Jordan Tatum 3.
The new, court-ready silhouette has all the features fit for a champion while delivering unmatched style and continuing the Tatum series’ reign as the lightest in the Jordan Brand basketball collection.
“I don’t take having a signature shoe for granted,” Jayson says. “I’m grateful to be in a position where I can co-create with Jordan Brand and have fans connect with me through my shoe. My favorite part of the 3s is the way they take on color, so my hope is that we inspire and energize a lot of people through the colorway storytelling.”
The Tatum 3 is the result of Jayson’s extensive collaboration with Jordan Brand’s footwear designers, who met his needs with a shoe that feels broken in right out of the box, and adapts to the foot without restrictions or pressure. A new upper incorporates insights from athletes’ on-court moves in the Nike Sport Research Lab, layering materials where they matter most for power and comfort, creating a supportive, conforming fit without feeling bulky or stiff.
Cushlon 3.0 foam and a Zoom Air insert work alongside the upper’s firm frame to promote lateral movements that feel smooth and secure, and a herringbone traction pattern propels a superior first step and quick cut while helping hoopers stop on a dime.
The smoothness of Jayson’s play and his commitment to his family are built into the Tatum 3, reflected in fluid lines that represent his uninterrupted approach to the game and the foundation of his family tree. Like the Tatum 2, the name of Jayson’s son, Deuce, is featured on the inside of the tongue, opposite his signature JT logo, and his number 0 is included on the heel along with unique sayings on the heel tabs, specific to each colorway. His popular “Find A Way” quote from his 2023 “humbly” interview is also included on the medial side of the shoe.
The launch colorway, Welcome to the Garden, showcases growth in all areas of Jayson’s life — his family, his game and his pursuit of greatness — in a floral pattern that nods to his home and personal garden, where he’s surrounded by family, friends and loved ones.
Jayson first unveiled the new silhouette via the NBA 2K25 cover and during his summer tour of China, where he teamed up with fellow Jordan Brand athletes Luka Dončić, Zion Williamson and Paolo Banchero to connect with local youth and foster their love for the game.
The Tatum 3 will be available globally on jordan.com and select retailers October 10.