Monday, April 7, 2025

Rex Education Celebrates 75 Years of Commitment to Education at AECON 2025

Ms. Amy Berry (Director, EngagED Consulting, Author of Reimagining Student Engagement: From Disrupting to Driving) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education)


 Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in ParaƱaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing.

Gathering of Change Makers in Education
Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every learner and educator.
In his opening remarks, REX COO Roger John Y. Fontelera highlighted that education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. He stated, "This year’s AECON isn’t about giving ready-made solutions. Instead, it’s about creating a space for reflection, learning, and collaboration. We want to provide you with stepping stones—resources, strategies, and ideas—that you can adapt to meet the specific needs of your schools, communities, and learners."

Dr. Edizon Fermin (Vice President for Academic Affairs, National Teachers College), Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo (Professor, UP College of Education, Former Undersecretary of Curriculum & Instruction, DepEd), Ms. Rhodora Angela Ferrer (Executive Director, Private Education Assistance Committee - PEAC), Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education), Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada (Legal Counsel for COCOPEA, Managing Partner of Estrada & Aquino Law, Education Law expert) and Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education) 




Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera delivered a keynote address emphasizing the urgency of preparing Filipino learners for an increasingly digital world. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to developing future-ready learners by integrating technology, enhancing critical thinking, and strengthening public-private collaborations.
One key session featured a panel discussion with respected education experts and policymakers:
  • Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director o of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2)
  • Dr. Dina Joana Ocampo, Professor at the University of the Philippines and former DepEd Undersecretary for Curriculum and Teaching
  • Ms. Rhodora Ferrer, Executive Director of the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC)
  • Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, Legal Counsel of the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations (COCOPEA)
Moderated by Dr. Edizon Fermin, Vice President for Academic Affairs at National Teachers College, the discussion focused on improving learning outcomes in the Philippines. It emphasized evidence-based policy decisions, stronger accountability among education leaders, and the importance of authentic assessments to accurately measure student progress.
In the afternoon, Dr. Amy Berry, Director of EngagED Consulting, led a plenary session on student engagement. She challenged traditional approaches and introduced innovative methods that empower both teachers and students to co-create meaningful learning experiences.
A Moment of Gratitude and the Symphony of Learning
The second day of AECON began with a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Jesse Mercado, Bishop of ParaƱaque, reflecting on the journey of Rex Education and its mission to support Filipino education.
After the mass, REX CEO Don Timothy Buhain introduced the Symphony of Learning Solutions, a suite of educational resources supporting lifelong learning, from early childhood to professional development. This initiative highlights REX’s commitment to integrating assessment, intervention, and enrichment for educators and learners.
Buhain compared learning to a symphony, where every effort, resource, and voice comes together to create something meaningful. He assured, "The symphony will improve—with practice, continuous learning, change, and execution. In the future, there will be additions when they are necessary. We will listen and count on our Edukampyon community, including the voice of our learners."
The Symphony of Learning Solutions includes lesson exemplars, learning instruments, digital platforms like Schoology, and targeted assessments to ensure well-rounded education at every stage.
A Unified Pledge for Quality Education
As the congress concluded, a spirit of unity filled the hall as attendees stood for the Edukampyon Pledge. Led by Jeanne Marie Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of REX, this solemn moment reaffirmed the commitment of educators and education stakeholders to advancing quality education, advocating for policies that support meaningful learning, and prioritizing the best interests of Filipino learners.

Mr. Don Timothy Buhain (Chief Executive Officer, Rex Education), Dr. Karol Mark Yee (Executive Director, 2nd Congressional Commission on Education - Phils) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education) 



75 Years and Beyond: The Edukampyon Commitment
Reaching 75 years is a testament to Rex Education’s dedication to every learner and educator it has served. The journey continues.
In his message of gratitude, REX Chairman and President Atty. Dominador Buhain thanked all the Edukampyons and shared, "Seventy-five years, and our work is not yet done. The future demands more from us, and we accept that challenge with open hearts and minds... We vow to continue listening, learning, and innovating to provide high-quality learning solutions for every Filipino learner."
As Rex Education looks beyond 75 years, its commitment remains—to be the trusted katuwang of every Filipino educator, school, and learner, fostering lifelong learning for generations—para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan, for life.

Thursday, April 3, 2025

LBC Express Bags Top Industry Awards to Cement Its ‘Hari ng Padala’ Legacy



 LBC Express maintains its status as the country’s most trusted logistics and financial service provider after securing three major industry awards. These recognitions underscore LBC’s excellence across key sectors, including air cargo, freight deconsolidation, and secure financial deliveries, and emphasize its commitment to excellent service for Filipinos worldwide.

Last March, LBC won the prestigious Diamond Award from Philippine Airlines (PAL), recognizing the company as the top contributor in air cargo volume. This award demonstrates LBC’s continued dominance in air freight, guaranteeing fast and efficient deliveries across the Philippines and beyond.

Besides its successful air shipments, LBC has further proven its reliability in freight forwarding. In January 2025, the Bureau of Customs - Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) named LBC as the Top Deconsolidator. This award is given to companies that excel in efficiently processing and distributing consolidated shipments. Winning this award highlights LBC’s expertise in managing high-volume logistics, facilitating smooth cargo clearance and providing efficient last-mile delivery for both businesses and individuals.



LBC’s commitment to secure and reliable service also extends to financial deliveries. Last December 2024, LBC received the CCAP Platinum Award from the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP) for safely delivering credit cards to stakeholders. This underscores LBC’s dedication to protecting financial transactions and maintaining trust in every delivery.

“These awards reaffirm our mission to serve Filipinos with speed, security, and efficiency,” said LBC Express President Mike A. Camahort. “Whether it’s moving goods, supporting businesses, or ensuring financial security, LBC remains committed to delivering with excellence. As the ‘Hari ng Padala,’ we take pride in being the trusted link that connects Filipinos to opportunities, wherever they may be,” added Camahort. 

With these recognitions under its belt, LBC continues to lead the way in providing reliable logistics and financial services—proving that when it comes to reliable, secure, and efficient deliveries, there’s only one ‘Hari ng Padala.’

Looking for a reliable logistics partner that can help your business grow? Boost your business with LBC Express’ Business Solutions today. To know more, visit LBC Express’ official website or follow their social media pages (Instagram | Facebook) for the latest updates.

BDO powers electric mobility through commitment to green transport initiatives

 

Advancing Sustainable Mobility. BDO’s Institutional Banking Group (IBG) shows full support at the launch of Mober Central Charge, standing alongside the electric vehicle fleet financed by BDO Unibank Inc. This reinforces the Bank’s commitment to sustainable transport and green logistics. In photo (L-R) Ann Claryn Yap, BDO’s Manager of Commercial Banking Metro Manila North A2; Jeffrey Ang, BDO’s First Vice President and Unit Head of Commercial Banking Metro Manila North A2; Jeanette Javellana, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial Banking for Metro Manila & Luzon; Dennis Ng, CEO of Mober; and Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group.


BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) plays a vital role in driving economic progress while advancing sustainability through eco-friendly practices. As part of this commitment, BDO financed the acquisition of Mober’s 60 electric vehicle (EV) trucks enabling the company to expand its operations as a pioneer in green logistics.

 

“BDO supports our fleet expansion, allowing us to take a significant step toward building a more sustainable logistics industry,” shared Dennis Ng, CEO of Mober.

 

“We are dedicated to the advancement of sustainable business practices, helping enterprises transition toward a greener future. By supporting initiatives that drive electric mobility and green logistics, we contribute to building a cleaner, more resilient economy,” said Charles M. Rodriguez, Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group of BDO Unibank.

 

BDO’s financing reaffirms its dedication to support green technologies and foster sustainable development. By backing Mober’s EV trucks acquisition, the Bank is enabling this environmental-friendly logistics company to scale its operations while significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

 

Mober recently unveiled Central Charge, its state-of-the-art EV charging hub in Pasay City to meet the growing demand for electric vehicle logistics operations. Recognized as the country’s largest commercial EV charging facility, Mober Central Charge aligns with the firm’s vision of positioning the Philippines as a leader in sustainable logistics.


Driving the Future of Green Transport. BDO’s Charles Rodriguez powers up one of the electric trucks funded by BDO at the launch of Mober Central Charge, strengthening BDO’s support for eco-friendly mobility in the country.


 

Spanning 3,000 square meters with a 56-port capacity, the hub is designed to serve a mixed fleet of e-vans and e-trucks. Through a structured three-shift system, it can charge up to 200 EV trucks daily, ensuring round-the-clock logistics operations. Strategically located near Metro Manila’s key commercial areas, the facility will enhance delivery efficiency for major clients including Ikea, SM Appliances, Nestle Philippines and Maersk.

 

As BDO continues to promote financing programs for renewable energy and eco-friendly initiatives, the Bank aims to inspire other financial institutions and companies to drive meaningful change by adopting sustainable practices.

 

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

BDO backs NAIA modernization to boost air mobility

 


Recognizing the vital role of infrastructure in national progress, BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO) remains committed to supporting projects that help advance essential services and drive sustainable growth. Through its participation in the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) modernization, BDO continues to be a strong partner in transforming the Philippines’ primary gateway, enhancing connectivity and economic opportunities in the country.

 

Facilitated by BDO’s Institutional Banking Group and BDO Capital & Investment Corporation (BDO Capital), BDO helped secure PHP 80 billion (US$ 1.42 billion) in funding for New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC), the consortium awarded the concession to rehabilitate and modernize NAIA. The consortium, led by San Miguel Holdings Corporation, the infrastructure arm of San Miguel Corporation (SMC) alongside RMM Asian Logistics Inc., RLW Aviation Development Inc., and Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), aims to significantly improve the airport’s efficiency and passenger experience.

 

SMC, a key member of NNIC, contributes its extensive infrastructure expertise and market leadership, with businesses spanning multiple industries and driving approximately 6% of the Philippines’ GDP. Meanwhile, IIAC, a wholly-owned entity of the Korean government and the operator of South Korea’s Incheon airport, one of Asia’s busiest airports, brings global practices in airport management, technology and operational efficiency. Their involvement underscores the confidence of international stakeholders in the Philippines’ economic potential and infrastructure modernization efforts.


Transforming NAIA. The NAIA modernization aims to boost connectivity and enhance customer experience



 

BDO’s ability to swiftly mobilize significant capital in a tight timeframe demonstrates its leadership in large scale infrastructure investment. BDO Capital, in collaboration with other investment banks, structured a deal that ensured a seamless funding process for NNIC, overcoming complex market dynamics.

 

“BDO has been a steadfast partner in infrastructure development, ensuring projects like the NAIA modernization have the necessary financial backing to succeed. This initiative will drive economic growth, improve air mobility, and enhance the Philippines’ position as a regional hub,” said Eduardo V. Francisco, President of BDO Capital.

 

Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group, added “We take pride in supporting transformative projects that create long-term value for businesses and communities. The modernization of NAIA is a milestone in improving air travel efficiency and accessibility for millions of Filipinos.”

 

BDO’s support has been crucial in providing the resources needed to modernize NAIA. Their financial expertise strengthens our efforts to transform the airport into a world-class gateway that drives economic growth, improves connectivity, and delivers a seamless travel experience for millions of passengers," said Angelito Alvarez, NNIC’s General Manager.

 

The NAIA modernization project, awarded before the end of 2024, was one of the administration’s priority undertakings. Understanding the fiscal challenges inherited by the current administration, BDO is leveraging private sector collaboration to ensure critical infrastructure initiatives remain on track. This landmark transaction highlights BDO’s support to the government’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) programs, fostering improved air mobility and infrastructure development. As the largest PPP under the current administration, this project is expected to generate substantial revenue for the Philippine government while creating new jobs, boosting tourism, and attracting foreign investment. 

 

The modernization of NAIA is a crucial component of a broader transport infrastructure upgrade, complementing projects such as the Metro Manila subway and the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan. Together, these initiatives will create a more integrated and efficient transportation network, driving economic opportunities and reinforcing the country’s position in the global market.