Category: Time Out

Vote Pilipinas & Robinsons Malls to Bring #BumotoKa Caravans Nationwide

With less than a month to go before the May 9 elections, Vote Pilipinas has partnered with Robinsons Malls to bring the #BumotoKa Caravans to Filipinos in different locations across the country.

Under the program, select Robinsons Mall branches will host the #BumotoKa Caravans to encourage Filipinos to exercise their right to vote. The caravan will kick off on April 19 at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga, to be followed by Robinsons Place Iloilo, Robinsons Place Bacolod and Robinsons Galleria Cebu on April 21 and Robinsons Place Tacloban on April 22.

“Robinsons Malls has been supporting the government and various advocacy groups to promote responsible voting. Previously, Robinsons Malls actively participated in Comelec’s national voter registration efforts and this partnership with Vote Pilipinas allows us to sustain our commitment to educate and empower our voting population nationwide,” said Arlene Magtibay, Robinsons Malls Senior Vice President and General Manager.

Vote Pilipinas Founder Ces Rondario said, “After getting around 7.9 million people to register to vote, our goal now is to make sure that Filipinos will actually go out and vote during election day. We want to arm our fellow Filipinos with reliable and factual information about this year’s elections, so they can make informed decisions when voting. Thanks to Robinsons Malls, we’re able to hold our #BumotoKa caravans in different parts of the country. Now we can educate more citizens, especially the youth and new voters, on everything they need to know about the upcoming elections, so they can cast their ballots with confidence. With Robinsons Malls’ help, more people across the Philippines will understand the importance of voting and why their vote matters.”

The #BumotoKa Caravans aims to promote voter education and responsible voting in the Philippines. The program helps enlighten residents, especially the youth and new voters on the importance of voting, what positions to vote for, and how to vote in the coming elections. Vote Pilipinas is joined by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to demonstrate how the Vote Counting Machine works, how to properly shade ballots, and how ballots are processed on election day. For the latest information on Vote Pilipinas and the #BumotoKa campaign, visit www.votepilipinas.com!

April 20, 2022
A Taste of Diversity: TELUS International’s cookbook celebrates Indian, Chinese, and Filipino recipes from the homes of 60 passionate team members

TELUS International is regularly recognized as a top employer and is awarded for its industry-leading employee engagement activities. Central to this success is the organization’s focus on celebrating the different passions that bring joy to its team members across its global delivery centers.

A recent addition in the company’s series of engagement activities was a recipe competition for team members across the TELUS International Philippines, Chengdu (China), and India delivery centers. The prize? To be featured in the first-ever TELUS International diversity cookbook of winning recipes entitled A Taste of Diversity.

“Many of our most treasured moments involve sharing a meal with loved ones,” shares Rajiv M.Dhand, Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific at TELUS International.

“Breaking bread has always been a tradition that brings people together and is the simplest, most universal expression of love and community. At a time when it is so easy to feel isolated and disconnected because of the restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we wanted to create a cookbook that can be a catalyst for bonding with each other, even from a distance,” he added.

Adding to the prestige was the chance for one’s recipe to be chosen by an impressive line-up of seasoned culinary experts who decided on the contents of the cookbook. The board of judges consisted of Royal Indian Curry House’s Chef Surat Rana, a veteran who has held top culinary positions with leading hotel chains and was awarded the Netizen’s Best Choice Award in 2018; Chinese Chef Sheng Tian, who has built his career as a consultant in Chinese cuisine specialized in Cantonese, Lu, Zhe and Chuan cuisines; and Filipino Chef RJ Ungco, a respected culinary expert in the Philippine food and restaurant industry who, after a celebrated run with five-star restaurants in Manila, now runs his own culinary business.

The competition kicked off with a virtual recipe writing workshop and food photography 101 session facilitated by respected Philippine culinary expert, Chef RJ Ungco and DiscoverMNL founder, Lucky Alabado.

Over 150 team members responded to the request for original Indian, Philippine and Chinese recipes, but only 60 emerged winners across five categories: soups, salads, appetizers, main course, and desserts.

“I was truly amazed with the creativity, talent, love, and passion the participants showed in their products. Great job, guys! Awesome job to the minds behind this project!” remarked Chef RJ Ungco.

Emerging winners in the Soups and Salads categories were Jomar Agregado, Cris Advincula, Diana Adorna, Rayzy Angeles Nufable, Neha Bhutani, Angel Tang, Karen Joy Belos, and Federico Guillergan. Winners in the Appetizer category included Ella Cecilia Edralin, Edrelynne Dela Pena, Carlo Planco, John Edmar Llasus, Darren Polante, Neneth Navarette, John Agustin Belicena, Anish Debnath, Juhi Zaidi, Pallavi Das, Huachen Xing, and Ernest James Perlas.

Winners in the Main Course category were Amy Zhang, Fiona Feng, Susie Su, Silvia Zeng, Tooy Wang, Mirei Magallona, Jayson Toledo, Joseph Ivan Gaffud, Karen Villegas, Maria Angelica Bustamante, Lance de los Angeles, Roderick Santos, Karen Tan, Justine Alano, Lindley Aurelio, Mark Esteve Pereda, Myca Santos, Ephraim Miguel Mercado, Anil Thapa, Gautam Piplani, Gourab Sarkar, Keshav Aggarwal, Amil Khan, Namrata Goel, Paras Saini, Rahul Bose, Sushant Khanka, and Vishu Luthra.

In the Desserts Category, the winners were Anmol Sarraf, Monika Jaiswal, Nawaz Nasar, Richa Sharma, Roxanne Moon, Sajal Gupta, Arian Corpuz, Aldrich Cu, Marry Jo Macorol, Michael Imbao, Joven Quitayen, and Rolly Harcia.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think my recipe might be featured in a published cookbook, especially one that has been curated by such seasoned chefs! Thank you, TELUS International for making this happy foodie’s wish come true,” said Ella Edralin, one of the winners and a TELUS International Philippines team member since 2006.

TELUS International Philippines is offering a free download of this cookbook at linkedin.com/company/telus-international-philippines/. Readers are invited to share their own take on these recipes with photos or videos, using the hashtag #TasteOfDiversity.

“The TELUS International Asia-Pacific A Taste of Diversity cookbook has been made by our team members with love. From family recipes passed down from generation to generation, new recipes made with ingenuity and passion, and recipes that reflect the unique culture of our team members – all these and more can be found here. The TELUS International team in Asia-Pacific takes pride in our diverse and caring culture. And that colorful diversity is reflected here, in our first-ever cookbook,” shares Dhand.

April 11, 2022
Reborn at 28: City of Malabon University Takes the Next Level for Global Education

The City of Malabon University (CMU) marked its 28th anniversary with certifications and accomplishments that allow its students to become transformative leaders and innovative citizens of the future. In recent years, CMU has undergone tremendous growth — improving its faculty, upgrading its facilities and infrastructure during the pandemic, and elevating course offerings (some with industry partnerships) that make these at par with the country’s best local universities.

Allaiza Mae Alamo, a 3rd-year student from the College of Teacher Education in the City of Malabon University

Allaiza Mae Alamo, a third-year student from the College of Teacher Education of CMU recalled what the school was like before. “We didn’t have the advanced facilities needed to improve our skills and be updated with best practices. Now, we have chemistry and computer laboratories, a podcast room, and a Criminology lab, which houses a state-of-the-art polygraph machine.”

Add to that, there is now a refurbished Student Center building, which houses a canteen on the first floor, a student lounge and club offices on the second, and a multimedia room on the third. It also recently held a groundbreaking event to start construction of a five-story multi-purpose building to provide 10 more classrooms for the CMU Business Administration students.

The groundbreaking event for the construction of the City of Malabon University’s 5-storey multi-purpose building was held last February 2, 2022

CMU President Prof. Melissa Grace Sison-Oreta is proud of the accomplishments gained as the school remains true to its vision to “be home of Global Malabonians.” “Today, CMU is now ISO-certified when the United Registrar of Systems Philippines (URS) granted CMU with International Standards Organization or ISO 9001:2015, which means that the Quality Management System (QMS) of CMU has met international standards.

Early this year, CMU also added another feather on its cap when nine of its programs were accredited by the ALCUCOA or the Association of Local Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation. The accreditation agency recognized CMU’s Accountancy program with Level 1 Accreditation, while Early Childhood Education, Public Administration, Journalism, and Management Accounting were granted with “Candidate Status.” This makes CMU one of the leading accredited universities in the CAMANAVA area.

Since CMU has received a Certificate of Eligibility from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the school is eligible for the privileges specified under the Republic Act 10931, or the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Since the past year, CMU, with the help of uniFAST, has been very enthusiastic in complying to the requirements needed for the acquisition of the said certification, in order for all CMU students to gain access to free education— which means that students like Allaiza can gain knowledge, improve their skills, and become future-ready while studying at CMU for free!

“Studying at CMU and witnessing all these changes, I can attest that our institution’s yearly development and innovation is shaping us to become more competent leaders,” said Allaiza.

Even amid the pandemic, CMU ensured that the students could still have the education they deserve. The institution launched a series of webinars on how to use new technology, while also providing free SIM cards with load allowance per month to use for internet connection.

This 28th year for the City of Malabon University is a year to be reborn – having a revitalized, more vigorous, and bolder identity.

“I am just one of the over 5,000 students of CMU who has experienced this total improvement. I am now proud to announce to all that I’m a student of CMU since I know that I could gain here the global quality education that I need to succeed in life,” added Allaiza.

There is a saying that the hope of a nation lies in its youth, and with the quality education that CMU is now providing, the future of the Malabonian student is better and brighter than ever.

For more information on CMU, visit cityofmalabonuniversity.edu.ph.

March 31, 2022
Game of Thrones: George R.R. Martin’s ‘The Rise of The Dragon’ to Arrive This October

As fans await the release of the Game of Thrones prequel spinoff, House of the Dragon, George R.R. Martin has announced a new book that will also give readers a closer look at the Targaryen Dynasty, The Rise of The Dragon.

On the author’s website, the book is described as “a lavish visual history of House Targaryen” with over 180 all-new illustrations. “Think of The Rise of the Dragon as a deluxe reference book, in which Westeros’ most infamous family – and their dragons – come to life in partnership with some truly incredible artists,” the blog explained. The book is set for release in October this year. For more information, visit georgerrmartin.com.

Photo: George R.R. Martin’s website

Just last year in October, the first trailer for HBO’s Game of Thrones spinoff House of the Dragon was dropped. It goes back to two centuries before the War of the Five Kings to tell the story of House Targaryen, when they were the rulers of the Seven Kingdoms. The series will detail the Dance of the Dragons– a historical event in the Game of Thrones universe where a civil war broke out between two Targaryens and their dragons. It is also scheduled for release this year.

March 21, 2022
The Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature is Back, Now Accepting Entries for 2022
The wait is finally over for poets and literary artists!

After a two-year hiatus brought about by the global pandemic, the longest-running and most prestigious literary contest in the country is back and now accepting entries to the 70^th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA).

“We know that the past two years have been very challenging for everyone because of the pandemic. As we slowly get back on track and ease into the new normal, we believe the time is ripe to once again, promote and celebrate Philippine literature and honor our literary artists,” says Administrative Manager Bernardita Ben, CPMA official spokesperson.

CPMA is now accepting submissions to its regular categories as follows:
- Novel and Nobela categories;
- English Division – Short Story, Short Story for Children, Essay, Poetry, Poetry Written for Children, One-act Play, and Full-length Play;
- Filipino Division – Maikling Kuwento, Maikling Kuwentong Pambata, Sanaysay, Tula, Tulang Para sa mga Bata, Dulang May Isang Yugto, Dulang Ganap ang Haba, and Dulang Pampelikula;
- Regional Languages Division – Short Story-Cebuano, Short Story-Hiligaynon, and Short Story-Ilokano.
The special Kabataan Division for young writers below 18 years of age is also now open for entries in its two categories: English and Filipino. Submissions must be informal (personal) essays on the theme: “Life in the Midst of the Pandemic and Coping in the New Normal” (Kabataan Essay) and “Buhay sa Gitna ng Pandemya at Pagharap sa ‘New Normal’” (Kabataan Sanaysay).

The contest is open to all Filipino citizens or former Filipino citizens of all ages except current directors, officers, and employees of the Carlos Palanca Foundation, Inc. Authors who wish to join may submit only one (1) entry per category.

THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES for 70^th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature (CPMA) IS ON 31 MAY 2022.

All submissions must be DONE ONLINE. The Carlos Palanca Foundation WILL NOT ACCEPT PRINTED AND EMAIL submissions for all categories.

The official contest rules and forms are available at the Carlos Palanca Awards website http://www.palancaawards.com.ph/.

For further inquiries and other concerns, email info@palancaawards.com.ph or call (632) 8843-8277 / (632) 8478-7996. Ask for Ms. Leslie Layoso or Ms. Susan Castillo.
March 21, 2022
Love blooms in Jollibee Studios’ ‘My Crush is a Cactus Killer’

Sometimes, it’s the unexpected change and uncertainties in our lives that bring us to a deep realization that our fate, indeed, has a funny way of making things fall into place. The same is true for the characters of Mandy and Mikey — the main characters in Jollibee Studios’ first ever three-episode mini series, My Crush is a Cactus Killer.

Mandy and Mikey, played by Gigi de Lana and Raphael Balaccua, respectively, are plant-lovers who faced setbacks in their professional and personal lives due to the pandemic. Struggling to put their lives back together, they discover how their shared love for plants may just bring them a deeper connection.

See how love blooms with Mandy (Gigi de Lana) and Mikey (Raphael Balaccua) in Jollibee Studios’ My Crush is a Cactus Killer mini-series

“What I love about my character is how accepting she is,” said singer-actress Gigi De Lana. “She doesn’t judge and gives up. This story is about believing that there is still hope for when you make a decision and set your goals, even if there are a lot of things that hinder you,” she continued.

Known for her vocal prowess, Gigi has been put under the showbiz spotlight with her new venture as a leading lady in My Crush is a Cactus Killer. This transition into an acting career has become a journey of growth for Gigi, one that she pursues with joy, love, and passion.

“First love ko ‘yung singing but acting is also a big accomplishment for me and something that I’d love to continue to explore.” According to her, both crafts have allowed her to embrace her vulnerability.

Life’s challenges and love for plants bring Mandy and Mikey together in this heartwarming Jollibee Studios’ mini-series

Directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, Jollibee Studios’ My Crush is a Cactus Killer is a quirky romance story that shows how to find joy in love despite the struggles that come along the way. And when it comes to narrating stories like this, no brand does it quite like Jollibee.

With over 700,000 subscribers on the Jollibee Studios YouTube channel and millions of views on each of their viral videos, Jollibee continues to share short films that tug at the heartstrings of its viewers.

When asked about her initial reaction to the opportunity, Gigi was quick to say that it was an automatic “Yes” for her. “I’ve been such a huge fan of Jollibee’s short films. I think what makes it popular is it makes people laugh, fall in love, cry, and most importantly, binibigyan kami ng lesson sa bawat kwento,” said Gigi.

Her co-star Raphael Balaccua also has this to say, “Working with the creative minds behind the new Jollibee series has been such a joy. With Direk Sigrid guiding me and Gigi, I feel confident that we gave justice to the characters of Mandy and Mikee because I know the right emotions were pulled from us.”

Catch the three-part Jollibee Studios series, My Crush is Cactus Killer, now out on Jollibee Studios’ YouTube page. Share your kilig online through Jollibee’s official social media pages.

March 11, 2022
Manulife Partners with Adidas PH to give your Future a Double Boost

In celebration of its 115th year in the Philippines, and the launch of FutureBoost, a flexible insurance plan that provides customers with rewards and bonuses that can maximize policy value, Manulife has partnered with global sportswear brand adidas through its Double Boost campaign. The leading global life insurer will be giving away pairs of adidas UltraBoost sneakers and adidas store vouchers to those looking to charge up their future.

“For Filipinos who want to power up the path to their goals, FutureBoost is an affordable and flexible life and financial protection plan specially designed to provide them with the opportunity to boost their coverage as their life goals and priorities evolve,” said Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. “With the support of adidas, one of the world’s leading sportswear brands, we’re excited to introduce this innovative insurance plan to help empower Filipinos to take charge of their lives, reach for their goals, and maximize their strength and abilities so they can build a future that they can be proud of.”

Jennianne Dacasin, adidas Philippines Brand Activation Senior Manager, added: “We at adidas believe in harnessing the power of sport to help people discover their limitless potential, on and off the field of play. By supporting Manulife in this initiative, we also show our support for all Filipinos as they tap into their inner athlete, live with the mindset of a champion, and gain confidence to focus on their goals so they can own their game – whether in sport or life — and better secure their future.”

The Double Boost campaign raffle is open to all Manulife and non-Manulife policyholders who can set an appointment about FutureBoost with a Manulife financial advisor until March 31, 2022. After a successful product presentation, participants will earn one raffle entry for a chance to win a pair of adidas UltraBoost or adidas store vouchers worth Php1,500. New customers may click on the adidas UltraBoost Promo poster link found on Manulife’s Facebook page to set an appointment, while existing policyholders may get in touch with their financial advisor. Raffle draw winners will be announced in May 2022.

For more details about the promo, visit the campaign page https://manulife.pub/manulifexadidas , Manulife Philippines’ Facebook page, or its website at www.manulife.com.ph

March 8, 2022
Manila Luzon: On a mission to catapult the Philippine drag scene to the global stage

International Drag Superstar Manila Luzon is on a quest to train the spotlight on Filipino drag queens as she spills the secrets of her global stardom in her master class. In partnership with Nas Academy, Manila Luzon launches “Manila’s School of Drag” that promises to help Pinoy drag queens and enthusiasts unleash their power from within.

Since she started rediscovering the local drag scene, Manila Luzon has been marveling at the creativity, character, and work ethic of Filipino drag artists. She often remarks that Filipino drag queens have the potential to push the boundaries of drag with the added layer of flair, personality, and fiery attitude that’s exclusive to Filipinos.

“My Filipino heritage is always present in my drag, just look at my drag name, Manila Luzon. I’ve championed for Filipino representation on the world stages of drag. And now with Nas Academy I have the opportunity to inspire more Filipinos to explore their self-expression through the art form.” says Manila Luzon.

Manila Luzon earned more than a crown when she won many hearts all over the world for her endearing performances in the Emmy Award winning program, RuPaul’s Drag Race. She graced not just one but three seasons of the show, and thereafter went on to grow her social media following, mount concerts, record songs, partner with numerous well-loved global brands as she fortifies her position as a powerhouse in the international drag community.

Manila’s School of Drag features the full range of lessons to fully discover one’s drag identity as students are empowered by learning how to present themselves in real life and in the age of social media. The class covers a range of topics that will develop the drag persona from knowing what it means to be a drag queen to learning the A-Zs of make-up, choosing the right clothes per body type, and capturing the best angle for Instagram.

“There is so much under my dress that I can share with everyone in my School of Drag. This class is a learning community, and I am excited for what we will create not only in the Philippines but all over the world. I look forward to our quarterly meet the creator sessions where I can share more tricks of the trade and encouragement that can help in their careers as make-up artists, stylists, performers, and content creators,” said Manila Luzon.

Manila’s School of Drag not only proves Nas Academy’s belief that there is a creator for every Filipino, it also gives Filipinos access to the talent of international creators and learn from their skills, experience, and perspectives.

“Over my years of performing in drag on television and stages around the world, I have accumulated a wealth of knowledge about the art of drag and I’ve used it to push the limits of what we accomplish in wig and heels. I am excited to pass down this knowledge through Nas Academy to new generations of drag performers and people who love the art form” Manila acclaimed.

Jacqueline Maye Lim, Nas Academy Philippines Country Head said, “Nas Academy defines creators beyond producers of online content on social media. Creators are individuals who have exceptional skills and style to tell their story and have applied this ability to pursue their passion and goals. Manila Luzon has shown how she expresses her Filipino pride, creativity, character, and authenticity in her own way and turns it into her own brand. She is well known and admired all over the world for being relatable across cultures and outstanding in everything she does. That makes her a powerful creator.”

Manila’s School of Drag is one of the academies to watch out for this 2022 as part of the long-term partnership between Nas Academy and Cornerstone Entertainment, which aims to bring international talents, celebrities, and creators who can give talks on creativity and personality development. Other academies with Cornerstone include “How to Be a Queen” with Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, “Moira’s Songwriting Bootcamp” with Spotify Most Streamed Artist Moira Dela Torre and CS Artist Lab Academy with Markki Stroem, Rayt Carreon, Radha, Welwel Silvestre, Alex Diaz, Nicco Manalo, and Eva Ronda.

“The creativity and ingenuity of Filipinos are well known all over the world. Nas Academy Philippines aims to show just how much talent can come from our archipelago,” Lim added.

“Manila’s School of Drag” opens on March 23. For more information, visit Manila’s School of Drag.

March 3, 2022
Shangri-La The Fort’s Adventure Zone Welcomes Kids as it Reopens

Hey there parents and kiddies, it’s time for AZ members to get ready for the next big adventure! March 4, 2022 is the date to save as Boni the Bull rounds up the squad in the reopening of Adventure Zone. Take a break from the confines of home and visit your city wonderland for a long-awaited play date with games and activities lined up for fun edutainment.

YOUR SAFE SPACE TO EXPLORE

Boni the Bull and the Adventure Zone squad reopens its doors on March 4, 2022 and will be open daily from 9am to 9pm. The team has been staying safely indoors but remained connected with members via virtual activities and fun parties. The first week of March marks the squad’s return to the 1,000sqm of playground space presenting a wonderful place for children to explore. They have been busy led by Boni in getting the place sanitized and ready for the children’s safe romp around the play pen.

Here’s a quick round up of the must-visit spots at Adventure Zone:

• Toddler Area
Let the li’l rascals flex their minds and motor skills through several play modules, mini slides, and climbing areas.

• Role Play Village
Nurture creative imaginations and let the kids wander and play pretend as bankers, doctors, firefighters or police officers.

• Slide Zone
There are 3 fun ways down in Adventure Zone’s activity area:

1) Hyperglide Astra – features a rainbow colored slide for all ages
2) Double Drop – a fun sliding drop straight into a ball pit
3) Vertical Drop – a 6.4 metre exhilarating vertical drop open for all ages • Space for Safe Celebrations

Members and guests can book safe celebrations for birthdays and other special occasions in 3 spacious party spaces.

Plan your visits with fun activities in mind featuring Adventure Zone’s edutainment starters: • Warm Up with Boni (5 minutes)

Get ready for your playdate starting with a song and dance with Boni the Bull • Arts & Crafts (10 minutes)

Express your creativity sustainably with a fun art project

PLAY IT SAFE: ADVENTURE ZONE HOUSE RULES

The squad is committed to ensuring your fun and safe return to Adventure Zone and for everyone’s collective wellbeing, here are a few house rules to the new AZ:

• Members must book their Adventure Zone visit. Play period slots are available for booking as early as 7 days in advance via our booking app at bit.ly/AZPlay. • For safe physical distancing, the prescribed maximum capacity of 30 children and 30 adult companions will be strictly observed. Each member may be accompanied by 1 adult only.

• Online travel and health declaration, temperature check, and presentation of vaccination card must be completed prior to entry to the facility. Only fully vaccinated adult companions will be granted admission to Adventure Zone.

• Sanitation stations are strategically placed in the different areas of Adventure Zone for the use of members.

• Play period is set at 1.5 hours per session with a break of 30 minutes in between for area disinfection.

• Face masks must be worn at all times. It may only be removed while drinking refreshments.

• Members and guardians must observe the dress code: long sleeves, trousers, and socks for children; smart casual wear with socks for companions.

• Food items from outside providers and personal toys are not allowed in the area.

Book your next playdate and visit bit.ly/AZPlay. For more information on membership and Adveture Zone parties, call +63 2 8820 0888 or email adventurezone.slfm@shangri-la.com.

March 2, 2022
Here’s How Google & YouTube will Support the Philippine Elections

As part of an ongoing commitment to connect voters to timely information and help protect the integrity of the Philippines elections, Google and YouTube announced a series of product features, partnerships, and programs.

Raising authoritative election information

As Election Day approaches, millions of people in the Philippines will be turning to YouTube to get the latest election news, and learn more about candidates and the voting process. To connect people to authoritative election-related information, YouTube provides a variety of Election Information Panels:

●      Candidate information panel: When YouTube viewers in the Philippines search for the names of President and Vice President candidates, a relevant candidate information panel will show at the top of their search results. This panel highlights information on the candidates, such as their political party and what office they’re running for. Information about candidates and parties is sourced from vetted, non-partisan, third-party sources.

●      How to vote information panel: To help people learn more about the voting process,an information panel surfaces on YouTube for all searches pertaining to “how to vote”. These panels will link to the Commissions on Elections’ (COMELEC) website featuring relevant materials, requirements, and the step-by-step of the voting process.

This is part of the existing portfolio of features that YouTube has rolled out in the country, aimed at raising authoritative information. These include Top News and Breaking News shelves for fast-moving, breaking news events; information panels that indicate funding sources from publishers that receive public or government funding; and information panels giving topical context that links to third party sources such as Wikipedia and Encyclopedia Britannica, for videos on a number of well-established topics that can be prone to misinformation including the Holocaust, the Apollo moon landing, and Martial Law in the Philippines.

Speaking about the election information panels in the country, Emily Moxley, Vice President for Product Management at YouTube said, “Political news and events can be subject to misinformation, so the availability of authoritative information sources is crucial. Over the last few years, we’ve made deep investments to make YouTube a more reliable source for news, while also maintaining the openness of the platform. Our work is ongoing and we are committed to making YouTube a vibrant and safe community for a healthy political discourse as well as help protect the integrity of elections.”

Removing election-related violative content & reducing harmful misinformation

YouTube’s Community Guidelines apply equally to everyone. From February 2021 to January 2022, the platform removed over 400,000 videos uploaded from the Philippines for Community Guidelines. YouTube elections misinformation policies prohibit content that:

●      Misleads voters about the time, place, means, or eligibility requirements for voting, or false claims that could materially discourage voting

●      Advances false claims related to the technical eligibility requirements for current political candidates and sitting elected government officials to serve in office

●      Encourages others to interfere with democratic processes

●      Contains hacked information, the disclosure of which may interfere with democratic processes

In addition, YouTube’s systems are designed to limit the spread of borderline content and harmful misinformation. Today, consumption of borderline content that comes from its recommendations is significantly below 1% globally.

Supporting fact-checking initiatives

The Google News Initiative (GNI) supports Meedan’s #FactsFirstPH, a coalition of more than 100 groups, including news organizations such as Rappler, civil society organizations, business groups, faith-based communities, research groups, and legal organizations to fight misinformation ahead of the Philippine elections. The GNI has also partnered with the University of the Philippines (UP) to launch a journalist training series and provided support to tsek.ph, a collaborative fact-checking project led by UP.

Investing in media literacy programs

Google has been investing in and supporting local media literacy programs to teach people how to identify trusted information. These include the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication’s “a day in the life” video series and training for news literacy, and CANVAS’ #YOUTHink magazine. Google.org also made a grant of $1.5 million to help the ASEAN Foundation expand media literacy education in ASEAN member communities including the Philippines. The ASEAN Foundation has also developed a digital literacy comic book available in Filipino.

“Fighting misinformation is important to Google and it takes the whole of society working together to address it. We will continue to forge meaningful partnerships with the media and community groups to help people access the right information so they can make an informed vote in the upcoming elections,” said Irene Jay Liu, Google APAC News Lab Lead.

“Part of COMELEC’s mission is to empower voters with accurate, relevant and timely information. We laud Google for taking the important steps in helping Filipinos access authoritative information that is essential for an informed electorate,” said James Jimenez, Commissions on Elections Director for Education and Information.

March 1, 2022