Saturday, December 14, 2024

Teachers Always Matter: REX and PEAC Reaffirm Commitment to the Teaching Profession, Launch Year 4 of Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan



The education sector needs the best and brightest to lead the way. With this vision, Rex Education and the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) united in 2020 to launch the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan, a scholarship program dedicated to championing and advancing teacher education by inspiring top learners to pursue the teaching profession.

Four years later, the mission remains steadfast: to cultivate the country's brightest minds into champions of education—integral members of the Edukampyon community. Teachers, being closest to learners, are the ultimate Edukampyons, wielding the power to significantly impact Filipino learners and guiding them toward creating a better future for themselves, society, and nation.
On Teachers’ Day, October 5, Rex Education and PEAC reaffirmed this commitment with the formal launch of Year 4 of the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan, in a virtual event titled “A Commitment for the Future of the Teaching Profession: PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan Year 4 Launch.”
“I am deeply grateful and excited to be celebrating yet another meaningful milestone with all of you. Parang ang bilis ng panahon. I can hardly believe we are already launching the fourth year of our PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan Program,” said Don Timothy Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of RexEducation and Co-Chair of the scholarship program, during his keynote.
In his speech, Buhain highlighted the pressing need for meaningful change in the quality of education in the country, especially in light of the recent Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings, where Filipino learners ranked 77th out of 81 countries. This alarming statistic underscores the need for education stakeholders—parents, school administrators, teachers, academic publishers, government, the whole nation—to intensify their initiatives, deepen their actions, and unite in uplifting education in the country.
According to Buhain, this enhancement in education quality hinges on improving teacher quality, which is a primary goal of this scholarship program. “Looking back, this all began with a shared recognition of a vital need. We knew that if we truly wanted to see meaningful change in the quality of education, particularly in teacher quality, we had to act swiftly,” Buhain stated. “In PEAC, we found a partner whose aspirations for learners and educators aligndeeply with ours. I truly believe we could not have asked for a more fitting collaborator and partner in this endeavor.”
This initiative will soon celebrate its first graduating class—14 of the country’s top scholars—who are set to enter the teaching profession next year as the pioneer batch of the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan program. For Year 4, PEAC and Rex Education are proud to welcome 25 scholars—the most in the program’s still short but fruitful history—in this continuing investment and commitment tothe teaching profession.
“Through this program, we aim to advance teacher quality by recruiting the best and brightest first-year students who want to pursue the teaching profession—especially in math and science—and grant them scholarships. This is our investment in the future of the profession. What an incredible journey it has been so far. We faced challenges, celebrated triumphs, and shared so many heartfelt moments along the way. Look how far we’ve come,” Buhain remarked.
Indeed, the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan program has come a long way and made remarkable strides in just four short years It only continues to grow stronger and has so much more to give, be hopeful for, and accomplish in years to come.

First Eduspec Inc. encourages institutions to be STEAM-STRONG for the future of learners


Mr. Lim Soon Seong, President of First Eduspec Inc., and Mr. Willard Paras, General Manager of FEI Inc., present a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone of Philippine Normal University, the event's keynote speaker.
Mr. Lim Soon Seong, President of First Eduspec Inc., and Mr. Willard Paras, General Manager of FEI Inc., present a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone of Philippine Normal University, the event's keynote speaker.

The results of the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) and other international standardized tests have brought attention to the poor performance of Filipino learners, underscoring the ongoing challenges in the quality of education in our country today. Filipino students are falling behind in critical areas, particularly math and science, ranking 77th among 81 countries in the 2022 PISA rankings released in December 2023.

For First Eduspec Inc. (FEI), this news presents a challenge and an opportunity to provide better support for learners by emphasizing their STEAM curriculum. With a purposive and well-designed STEAM curriculum, experiential tools to test and hone students’ skills, assessments to measure performance, and continuous professional development programs for teachers, Filipino learners can fully realize their potential and become more equipped and STEAM-strong. All these are offered by FEI, a multinational organization known for its innovative, technology-based educational solutions and services, and a sister company of Rex Education, a leading academic publisher in the country.
On October 11, FEI and REX underscored their commitment in a special program to address the challenges of providing better support for Filipino learners in STEAM education as they prepare to become future-ready citizens of a digital, technology-driven world.
Themed Armed and Equipped: Nurturing Future-Ready Citizens Through Leveled-Up STEAM Learning with First Eduspec Inc., the program featured keynotes from prominent STEAM stakeholders, including FEI General Manager Willard Paras and Dr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone of the Philippine Normal University. FEI and Rex Education also reaffirmed their commitment to actively support initiatives aimed at advancing the Philippine education system and further empowering Filipino learners.
“At FEI, we have made it our mission to come up with STEAM learning solutions that are relevant, needs-driven, and research- and evidence-based to respond to the ever-changing needs for innovative learning solutions,” Paras said, as he discussed the four pillars of FEI’s STEAM-STRONG programs:
  1. STEAM curriculum designed to develop 21st-century skills.
  2. Authentic assessment for evidence-based teaching, learning dynamics, and evaluation of students’ skills achievement.
  3. Educational technology to help students and teachers familiarize themselves with the world of work.
  4. Capacity building and professional development for institutions, and especially teachers, to effectively deliver these programs.
“We work closely with every partner and institution to ensure schools are ready to assist learners in their STEAM journey. We provide training and workshops to help empower teachers and instructors, enabling them to become competent STEAM enthusiasts who can, in turn, arm and equip our learners,” Paras added.
In his keynote, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain reflected on the Philippines’ low PISA ranking, calling it “a challenge for all of us” and prompting the audience to consider these vital questions: How are we teaching STEAM in our schools? Are we truly giving our learners all the tools and support they need to succeed in the real world?
“This is a conversation we need to have, and I am happy we are here as part of the solution. We will do more,” Buhain assured.
“With FEI’s guidance, our STEAM offerings have been significantly enhanced, enabling us to better meet the needs of our learners. For us at REX, FEI is family—an integral contributor to the symphony of learning solutions we have developed over the years. This relationship grows stronger every day as we approach our 75th year of nurturing Filipino learners,” Buhain said.
These needs have only increased in the 21st century, with the introduction of digital learning technologies fundamentally transforming how people learn and interact with information. This transformation underscores the importance of technology—a core component of STEAM—in ensuring young people’s successful participation in all spheres of life.
In line with this, PISA has introduced in its ninth cycle a new, innovative domain: Learning in a Digital World, which assesses students’ ability to learn and thrive in digital environments alongside its usual evaluations of core skills in math and science. FEI and Rex Education’s STEAM-STRONG initiative aims to help improve Filipino learners’ performance in PISA and prepare them for a digital, technology-driven future.
The special event also marked the launch of the Partnership Graduate Studies Program with First City Providential College, an institution granted autonomous status by the Commission on Higher Education. The program will offer advanced learning opportunities in STEAM and robotics education to further empower educators. Additionally, the event included the soft launch of the Federation of Robotics Schools in the Philippines, an organization dedicated to advancing coding, robotics, and STEAM learning nationwide through various programs and activities.
A total of 55 schools have signed up for FEI’s robotics program for SY 2024–2025, including St. Mary’s College (Quezon City), which showcased an agricultural robot prototype designed to help Filipino farmers cultivate their fields. This demonstration highlights both the far-reaching impact of robotics in various aspects of life and the exceptional talent of Filipino students in this high-tech field.

St. Mary’s College wowed the audience with their groundbreaking Robot Project. Embracing the theme "Armed and Equipped: Nurturing Future-Ready Citizens with Leveled-Up STEAM Learning and Robotics," these young tech innovators showcased exceptional creativity, engineering skills, and problem-solving expertise.
St. Mary’s College wowed the audience with their groundbreaking Robot Project. Embracing the theme "Armed and Equipped: Nurturing Future-Ready Citizens with Leveled-Up STEAM Learning and Robotics," these young tech innovators showcased exceptional creativity, engineering skills, and problem-solving expertise.


Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Crunch, Collect, Conquer: Mister Potato Partners with Netflix’s Squid Game 2 for a Snack-Tastic Contest

 

Manila, Philippines – Snack fans, assemble!
Mister Potato Philippines is taking your love for snacks to a thrilling new level. In collaboration with Netflix’s global hit Squid Game, Mister Potato has launched an interactive contest that could turn your next canister of crisps into a passport to incredible prizes—including a dream trip to South Korea!
Dubbed the Crunch to Win: Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 contest, this high-stakes campaign combines the excitement of Netflix’s breakout series with the irresistible crunch of Mister Potato snacks. Whether you're a Squid Game superfan or a dedicated snacker, this campaign promises something for everyone.
The Crunch That Could Take You to Korea
Running from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the Crunch to Wincontest invites snack lovers to uncover hidden Squid Game-inspired symbols inside the metal lids of specially marked Mister Potato canisters. These symbols could be your ticket to an unforgettable journey filled with exclusive prizes.
Here’s what’s at stake:
● Weekly Prizes:
○ Squid Game Funko Pop collectibles.
○ P1,000 worth of vouchers for select partners.
○ Bundles of Mister Potato products to keep your snack stash stocked.
● Grand Prize:
○ A dream getaway to South Korea, including airfare, accommodations, and a curated itinerary designed to immerse you in the magic of Korean culture.
● Consolation Prizes:
○ Additional bundles of Mister Potato products.
○ Exclusive Squid Game merchandise and vouchers worth up to P1,500.
Each canister brings a new opportunity to win, making snack time an even more exciting adventure!
How It Works
Participating in the contest is as easy as crunching open your favorite Mister Potato flavor. Follow these steps to join:
  1. Purchase limited-edition Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 canisters, available at leading retailers nationwide.
  2. Look for the hidden Squid Game symbols inside the metal lid of the canister.
  3. Submit your entries online at www.misterpotatoph.com.
  4. Follow Mister Potato on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to get updates on contest announcements, symbol collection tips, and winner reveals.
Each unique symbol you find serves as a ticket to the weekly draws and the grand prize. The more symbols you collect, the better your chances of winning!
Pop Culture Meets Snack Innovation
This collaboration between Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 is a testament to the power of blending entertainment and consumer engagement. With Squid Game returning for a much-anticipated second season, Mister Potato aims to capture fans’ excitement and turn it into an unforgettable brand experience.
“Collaborating with Squid Game 2 felt like a natural fit for Mister Potato. Both our brand and the series have legions of loyal fans, and this contest allows us to bring something truly exciting and unique to both audiences,” said How Yuan Yi, Chief Marketing Officer of Mister Potato. “We’ve combined the thrill of watching Squid Game with the fun of enjoying a snack, offering fans a chance to win fantastic rewards along the way.”
By linking its signature snack with one of Netflix’s one of the most successful series, Mister Potato taps into the growing trend of experiential marketing, where brands create memorable, interactive moments for their consumers.
Beyond Snacking: A Gateway to Adventure
The Crunch to Win campaign isn’t just about munching on crisps; it’s about being part of a global phenomenon. The collaboration celebrates the best of both worlds—Mister Potato’s bold flavors and Squid Game’s gripping storytelling. Together, they’ve created a contest that takes consumer engagement to the next level.
“This collaboration with Netflix is about more than just cross-promotion,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about offering a new kind of experience, where our product becomes part of the fun and excitement of a global entertainment event. It’s not just a snack anymore; it’s a gateway to an adventure.”
Exclusive Canister Designs
The specially marked canisters are just as exciting as the prizes. Each flavor—Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Honey Cheese, Hot & Spicy, and Barbecue—features limited-edition Squid Game designs, making them collectible items for fans of the series. Whether you're a fan of the iconic Red Light, Green Light doll or the mysterious masked guards, these canisters add a touch of Squid Game to your snack shelf.
Your Chance to Be a Winner
Ready to crunch your way to South Korea? The Crunch to Win contest is your ticket to rewards that go beyond the snack aisle. With prizes designed for fans of both Mister Potato and Squid Game, this campaign offers a unique way to connect with your favorite snack brand while celebrating the cultural phenomenon that is Squid Game.
The contest is live from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to collect those symbols, rack up entries, and snag one of the amazing prizes.
For more information and contest mechanics, visit www.misterpotatoph.com. Be sure to follow Mister Potato on social media to stay updated on the latest announcements, winner highlights, and special promotions.
About MAMEE-Double Decker
MAMEE-Double Decker (M) Sdn Bhd was founded in 1971 when the late Group Executive Chairman, Datuk Pang Chin Hin started to produce dried noodles and vermicelli together with his eldest son, CEO, Tan Sri Pang Tee Chew. This small business, then known as Pacific Food Products and located in Ayer Keroh, Melaka set the wheels turning for what eventually became MAMEE-Double Decker. Datuk Pang’s other sons, COO Datuk Wira Pang Tee Nam and the late Pang Tee Suan, together with the rest of family – now in their 3rd generation – developed it into one of the largest food and beverage manufacturers in Malaysia. MAMEE-Double Decker was eventually incorporated in 1991. The company has set up plants across Malaysia – including in Kuala Lumpur and Kuantan, and currently employs over 2,000 staff – before expanding to Myanmar and Indonesia.
Facebook: Mister Potato Philippines
Instagram: @misterpotatophilippines
X: @MisterPotato_PH
TikTok: misterpotato_ph


Mav Strive PH Introduces a Game-Changing Collection of Premium Bags and Office Essentials

 Elevate Your Everyday: Mav Strive PH’s Stylish Solutions for Modern Living


Watch out for Mav Strive PH year-end promo. Check out their website!
This year, the local fashion and lifestyle scene welcomes an exciting new player: Mav Strive PH, a proudly Filipino brand built on the mantra “Strive For More.” Spearheaded by young entrepreneur, content creator and digital marketer Ric Abasola, Mav Strive PH aims to redefine sophistication and utility with its meticulously crafted collection of bags and office accessories.
Launching during the last quarter of 2024 via its e-commerce store and social media platforms, Mav Strive PH has already made a remarkable impression. The brand promises to continue its growth with an official launch event in 2025 and plans to expand into partner retail stores.
A Vision Born from Passion
Ric Abasola’s vision for Mav Strive PH, together with his co-creator, Marvin Ortiz, started as a passion project during the pandemic. “We’ve been wanting to launch this project right after the pandemic,” Ric shared. “This project has been discussed and planned with some friends, but it was just parked. Now, here it is—we hope the market will appreciate the premium items we’re releasing, as we’ve put so much passion and effort into making this a reality.”
From its carefully sourced high-quality materials to its urban-chic designs, the collection reflects a commitment to excellence. "I can’t believe that the bags and other items are now available. We’re proud of this product line, and we hope more people will appreciate it,” Ric added.


Caption: Mav Strive PH Creators Ric Abasola and Marvin Ortiz sport their Urban Voyager Mav Strive Bags
The Mav Strive Collection: Premium Quality Meets Urban Sophistication
Mav Strive PH boasts a variety of products designed to resonate with modern professionals, students, and active urbanites.
UrbanWayfarers: Your Go-To Companion for Life’s Adventures
Perfect for students, professionals, and on-the-go individuals, UrbanWayfarers offers compact yet spacious designs. Its waterproof materials and built-in USB charging port make it ideal for both the daily grind and weekend adventures.
UrbanRide: Elevate Your Journey
A streamlined backpack for commuters, students, and active individuals, UrbanRide stands out with its lightweight yet rugged construction, dedicated gadget compartments, and weatherproof design.
UrbanAstro: Be Out of This World
This bag is a secret weapon for professionals and students who seek a sleek, modern design with superior functionality, including a laptop sleeve and a luggage strap for easy travel.
UrbanGrind: Going Places
For those who demand style and functionality, UrbanGrind combines premium waterproof materials with an organized interior, ensuring you look sharp and stay organized from the boardroom to the street.
UrbanSling: Compact and Secure
Ideal for quick errands or city adventures, UrbanSling offers stealthy compartments, anti-theft features, and a built-in USB charging port.
UrbanVoyager: The Premium Travel Essential
Tailored for the modern professional, UrbanVoyager pairs classic design with multi-functional pockets and a dismountable shoulder strap, ensuring you travel in style and comfort.
Kingsman’s Wallet: Sophistication Meets Innovation
Crafted for the discerning individual, Kingsman’s Wallet combines RFID-blocking technology, sleek storage, and timeless elegance, making it the ultimate accessory for style and security.
Check out more about the product details on their online shop. Click here.
Targeting the Modern Urbanite

Mav Strive PH is tailored for:
● Urban Chic: For city dwellers who value fashion and utility.
● Active Lifestyles: Designed for commuting, errands, and travel.
● Professional Excellence: Crafted to elevate your corporate look.
● Sophistication and Luxury: Perfect for those who appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship.
A Future Full of Promise
Mav Strive PH has already received glowing feedback from early adopters. “These items are made with high-quality materials and were created with passion, ensuring durability,” Ric emphasized. To celebrate its soft launch, the brand is offering exclusive promotions this month. Customers can also look forward to new product lines in 2025, ensuring that Mav Strive PH remains at the forefront of premium accessories.
For more details and to shop the collection, visit www.mavstrive.com or follow their journey on social media.
With its elegant and functional designs, Mav Strive PH is set to inspire individuals to Strive For More—because excellence deserves no compromise.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mavstrive
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavstrive/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mavstrive