PH Digicon 2022 to offer boundless insight into digital transformation

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PLDT Enterprise will again stage the country’s most prestigious thought leadership event, the Philippine Digital Convention (PH Digicon), tackling the latest technology trends, emerging innovations, and insights to help businesses maximize opportunities and prosper.

Carrying the theme ‘Boundless,” the PH Digicon 2022 will feature a hybrid setup where virtual delegates are also invited to participate via the live broadcast at the PH Digicon platform simultaneous to the physical program. The two-day convention will be held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Pasay City on October 27-28 and marks the on-site return of the PH Digicon since its last face-to-face conference in 2019.

“This year’s convention will confer new perspectives on what is happening in the time of rapid digital transformation. Our delegates can expect a whole new level of discovery in pushing past one’s limits to be more efficient, collaborative, resilient, and agile. With a more dynamic advocacy agenda that is industry-oriented and forward-thinking, the PH Digicon 2022 is definitely not to be missed,” said Jojo Gendrano, FVP & Head of PLDT and Smart Enterprise.

Similar to previous years, globally recognized industry experts will banner the plenary session together with invited experts from across industries for an engaging discussion helping spark technological empowerment among businesses. Attendees can expect invaluable learnings and best practices from high-level keynote presentations, panel discussions, and insight sharing.

The PH Digicon 2022 will also hold seven thought-provoking forums covering key premises, such as powering the hyperscale revolution, bridging the divergence between digitization and cyber risk management, and emerging technologies that will shape tomorrow’s enterprises, and building a digital nation through smart cities.

“We will cover very diverse topics and themes by the distinguished lineup of speakers, and we are more than thrilled to share these with all the delegates. With this, we can expect to broaden our horizons and better understand how business is done in this new world of digital transformation and innovation,” said Gendrano.

PLDT Enterprise ensures an insightful program with an agenda covering key topics, including a look into the infinite potential of enterprises in a redefined digital universe; transformational leadership as the core of any successful digital transformation; and insights on new business models, strategies, and predictions on the future of business and tech, among others.

Additionally, there will also be discussions about growing businesses by building a fast and reliable network infrastructure, elevating customer experiences through innovative and customer-centric digital innovation, dissuading digital hesitation, and propelling digital transformation.

Meanwhile, the said convention will also provide an opportunity for delegates to expand their network, engage with fellow delegates, speakers, and sponsors, and be entertained by the nightly performances.

The registration details for the PH Digicon 2022 will be available soon. For more details, visit https://pldtenterprise.com/phdigicon2022.

 

Martial Law declaration 50th anniversary

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"History is written by the victors, and during the Martial Law Era, the victors were the people" and so distorting that would be disrespect to the Filipinos.

This year, the country will remember the 50th anniversary of the declaration of martial law. 

Rape, torture, murder, all these happened during Martial Law. Many survived to tell the horrible tale, but until now they haven't fully got the elusive justice..

My heart goes out to victims & survivors of Martial Law, those who fought and suffered during the dictatorship of FEM.

These young people were gone too soon. They would have been our future senators, corporate CEOs and University presidents. They were killed or disappeared during the Marcos Martial Law years. No, they were not communists. They fought for freedom and their cherished youth ideals. And for those who say they can also be future rebels,  who wouldn't under the brutality and corruption of the Marcos Martial Law years?

It’s the Marcoses who pushed people to become rebels during their time. Kaya sila talaga ang may kasalanan kung bakit lumala ang mga Communists group.

... especially now that those responsible for the crimes against the Filipinos are "deodorizing" their stinky reputation by coming out with falsified claims and interpretations. 

Sadly, the stench of their disinformation campaign continues to linger especially now that they are back in power.

Utterly disturbing, it makes your blood boil connecting it to how history revisionism is being done right now. Lantaran na inuuna pa yung pelikula na tangkang pabanguhin ang kanilang mga pangalan kaysa ekonomiya at kapakanan ng sambayanan.

It's not true that there are two movies about Martial Law that are showing at the same time. One is truly about Martial Law and is worth watching, while another is about distortions in facts, and thus worth ignoring. To lump them together as if they both adhere to artistic story-telling is a disservice to filmmaking.

The production of Maid in Malacañang is a big disrespect to the profession of our historians and to the victims and survivors of Martial Law under the Marcos dictatorship.

Martial Law in the Philippines has a historical basis. Maid in Malacanang is a figment of the imagination of Daryl Yap and/or his writer(s). 

I know there are two sides to a story. But it's really disturbing that there are people who choose to believe Marcos' lies than the victims of Martial law who experienced a lot of suffering under Marcos' regime.

During Martial Law, the Marcoses used myth making propaganda like incorporating themelves in the myth of "Si Malakas at Si Maganda" as the parents of the "Bagong Lipunan". It mythologized their achievements & glossed over their atrocities. Yang MiM simula pa lang ng propaganda yan! 

“Listen to the other side?”

You mean the only side that was allowed on air during the entirety of Martial Law?

They had two decades to air their side, and they still think that wasn’t enough?

Remember, that in every share we click on and share false information is the blood of martial law heroes that have been wasted.

Save the Children Philippines: Enactment of Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Law

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Save the Children Philippines lauds the enactment of Republic Act 11930 or “Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act” which strengthens the protection of children against OSAEC.

According to the 2016 National Baseline Study on Violence Against Children, 1 in 2 Filipino children experience online abuse. The Department of Justice (DOJ) – Office of Cybercrime recorded 418,422 cyber tips in 2019, that increased by 260% in 2020 since the start of the pandemic.

In April 2022, 20% of internet-using children aged 12-17 in the Philippines were reported as victims of grave instances of online sexual exploitation and abuse. This includes being blackmailed to engage in sexual activities, sharing their sexual images without permission, or being coerced to engage in sexual activities in exchange of money or gifts.

With the passage of this law, the Philippines as State Party complies with the recommendations of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) to protect children from all forms of abuse and exploitation – both offline and online.

Save the Children, however, recognizes that the enactment of the law is just a step towards a stronger advocacy for child protection from all forms of violence. We need all hands on deck if we are to achieve this goal. Hence, we call on the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the DOJ to immediately formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations, clarifying the obligations and accountabilities of internet service providers, social media networks, and other platforms. There must also be a stronger push to disseminate safe and inclusive reporting and referral mechanisms.

We also call on local government officials and other stakeholders to enact local ordinances on OSAEC so they can fulfill their obligations to protect all children in their communities every day and in times of crisis, and concretize the policies into actual child protection related programs, projects, and activities that are included in local development plans and budgets.

We also encourage tech companies, experts, and organizations to develop and implement effective ways to detect and prevent OSAEC in livestreams and online engagements.

Save the Children commits to continue upholding the rights of every child. By working together with organizations and stakeholders who believe that children deserve to live in a safe and humane society, we can turn our shared vision into reality.

Save the Children Philippines CEO, Atty. Albert Muyot, said:

“As much as this is a huge win for us, much work also remains as we continue to live in a time where we are increasingly reliant on digital technology. We must continue to safeguard our children at all times in our homes, schools, communities, and online. Save the Children remains committed to working with the government, our civil society and community partners, including children, in raising awareness on OSAEC, educating children and adults on safe online practices, and ensuring that this law will be fully implemented.


Save the Children Philippines advocated for the passage of the Anti-OSAEC Law and actively participated in Technical Working Group meetings and recommended measures such as the inclusion of awareness raising, prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration of programs to support victims and survivors of OSAEC.

SMDC unveils Vail Residences Showroom in Uptown, Cagayan De Or

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SM Development Corporation (SMDC) laid the groundwork for its expansion in Cagayan De Oro City as it formally opened the Vail Residences showroom last Thursday, July 22.A SMDC's first development in Cagayan De Oro, Vail Residences is seen to be a catalyst for inclusive growth in Misamis Oriental, and a conduit for more individuals to fulfill their aspiration of a luxurious home in a premium address. The mid-rise residential garden community sits along Pedro N. Roa Sr. Avenue, in the prized Uptown, Cagayan De Oro.

SMDC President Jose Mari Banzon reiterates the trailblazing developer's steadfast commitment to building more masterfully-designed communities in growth areas across the country so more Filipinos can live better. He thanked the people of Cagayan De Oro for the immense support SMDC has received since they launched the project. "We’re excited to see the city evolve into a world-class destination and one of the most sought-after economic bright spots in Mindanao, and we are truly excited and honored to be a part of this growth," Banzon said.

Strategically situated at the third level of SM City Cagayan De Oro Uptown, the Vail Residences showroom provides a preview to the safe, comfortable, and sustainable lifestyle residents could enjoy in the community, and features model units for viewing.

To know more about Vail Residences, follow SMDC on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter, or visit the SMDC website.

Leveling up our tech gear and other things we can do at SM this Cyber Month

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Great tech and gaming deals are coming your way this August!

Hey there, tech geeks!

Bukod sa shopping for our new smartphone or gadget, food tripping, window shopping, ay marami talagang pwedeng gawin at SM Supermalls 

Is it time to level up or upgrade our tech gear this August considered as Cybermonth ...or should we wait until the ber months? or ngayon na talaga na tinatawag ding Ghost month?

SM Supermalls is celebrating tech and innovation this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022. It’s going to be an #AweSM, action-packed month at SM with these activities and offerings that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

Biruin mo yun, nakikipag selfie with the Samsung peeps para makakuha ng additional perks like a voucher or 1K GCash... during the SM Supermalls SM Cyberzone  Cybermonth grand launch  - at SM Mall of Asia Official main atrium. Pero ang sabi nila ay until August 10 naman daw...but the freebies are until supplies last lang. 

Ano ba tawag uli sa kanila? The Samsung Galaxy masters? Hindi ko totally Makita kung magaganda sila dahil sa face masks.

In celebration of Cybermonth, Samsung is offering "freebies" for every purchase of a new Samsung smartphone.

Samsung was the first smartphone brand that I   had when I was still using the "unsmart" and text-based phones....hehehe. They have been in the industry for years so I am more assured I'll be getting a unit backed by a trusted brand..... However, there are several other brands, mostly from China, that are less in price but catching up on performance and durability. Though I still can't avoid to be a bit suspicious...after all, China-made products have been known to be "inferior" compared to the popular and big brands that has been around for decades.

Smartphone brands at SM Supermalls Cyberzones are all competing with each other, but the competition is actually beneficial for all of us since these brands are making efforts to give the best offer, coupled with freebies, discounts and/or promos, attractive enough to consumers. 

Let's compare the pros and cons of every unit, though we have to realize that a new model would always come out even after just a few months. I believe it's a marketing strategy urging you to purchase the new and better models.

What I'm more confident about is "Buying at SM Cyberzone assures us that we won't be easily "scammed" compared to other shady market places where there are several"horror" stories from their victims.

Experience the Great Gadget Sale

Truly, there is no place like SM Cyberzone when it comes to the hottest tech deals and the lowest price guaranteed gadgets. Get your hands on the best deals, special promos, and bundles on select items with up to 60% off in participating stores at the Great Gadget Sale. Delightful, tech-citing deals are up for grabs at SM Cyberzone, SM Appliance, and The SM Store Gadgets!

Hop on the Gadget Lab

From fun, entertaining displays and touch & try product exhibits, to interactive product guides and the latest gadgets available in the Philippines, go crazy over all things tech at the Gadget Lab. See for yourself all the best smart home devices, gaming, productivity devices, and smartphones on display in the activity areas.


See what the future of tech and gaming looks like

Aside from the epic battles, you can also see what the future of tech and gaming looks like at the PlayZone. Immerse yourself in the live demonstrations of the newest gaming technology there is! You can also check out the gaming pods, gaming set-ups, and PC rig displays in the activity area.

Witness some action at the PlayZone

SM Supermalls is bringing together e-sports players and mobile gamers for some intense and epic battles. Tag along with your gaming squad and watch the gamers outplay each other at the special exhibition matches.

Grab the special deals exclusive via the SM Online App

But if you can’t go to any SM Cyberzone branches in the Philippines, there’s still a way for you to score these offerings and discounts. All you have to do is download the SM Malls Online App, add to your cart all your tech must-haves, use the voucher deals in-app, and just pick up the items at the SM mall near you.

For first time shoppers, SM Malls Online is offering a P200 OFF when you use voucher code SMGOESONLINE upon checkout. Shop for your favorite tech brands and gadget needs! Download now the SM Malls Online app here - https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/btxb3s1w

“The #SMCyberMonth2022 is a celebration of tech and gadgets that can definitely make our lives more fun, easier, and convenient. And no matter what your interest is– may it be gaming, virtual reality, smart home, music, or smartphone photography – there will be something for you at Cyberzone!” said SM Supermalls President, Steven Tan.

Experience all these and more this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022! Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls’ official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram so you won’t miss out on all the cool happenings in your favorite SM mall.

Subok lang sa TikTok, may mga brands na kasing nagrerequire to have a TikTok account, pero hinding-hindi ako sasayaw dito...lol

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSRj3W4Dy/?k=1

Dagdag information from SM Supermalls:

https://www.smsupermalls.com/cyber-month-2022?utm_source=media&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=CyberMonth2022  

Pro Tips For Gambling Fanatics

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We all love to unwind after a long day at work or running errands. One of the best ways to do this is by logging into your favorite virtual casino. There are so many perks that these casinos offer, and ultimately, you will definitely have some fun.

In the Philippines, we are allowed to gamble as long as we are over the age of 21, and it is regulated by PAGCOR. Therefore, you need not worry about getting into the wrong books of the authorities if you play it safe.

Whether you are playing the lotto, casino games, or online sports betting, here are some tips to help you out:
1) Do your research

While the internet opened us up to a world of gambling opportunities, it also allowed scammers to take advantage of the situation. Many people have been scammed by casinos that pretend to be legit.

If you gamble online, do your research first and ensure that the site is legitimate. Fortunately, there are a plethora of both land-based and virtual casinos to choose from, so finding the one that suits you will not be a problem. The only thing you need to make sure of is that you pick a reputable casino that is licensed and regulated.

2) Set a budget

How much are you willing to spend? Can you afford to lose it all? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself before gambling. You need to set a gambling budget before you even open up an account. This way, you will be more aware of your expenditure on the site. Once you have set a budget, stick to it. Do not be tempted to spend more than what you are comfortable with because that is how people end up in debt.

3) Take advantage of the bonuses

You have probably seen many casino bonuses being advertised online. From no deposit bonus to the welcome bonus, there are many ways that you can take advantage of these bonuses in an online casino.

These bonuses help you get started on the right foot. However, you need to be very cautious before accepting any of them. Read the terms and conditions to be sure of the bonus requirements as well as the wagering requirements.

4) Choose the right games

There are hundreds of casino games available today, from the legendary slots to classic table games like poker, baccarat, and roulette. With so many options, it can be quite overwhelming for new players.

The best way to start is by choosing the games you are familiar with. Once you get more comfortable with the gameplay, you can start exploring other options. When choosing a casino, it is also important to remember that some games have better odds than others. For instance, slots usually have a higher house edge compared to table games.

5) Make good use of the demos

One of the best things about virtual casinos is that they offer demos or free versions of their games. These demos give you a feel of the game without requiring you to spend any real money. Use these demos to your advantage and learn as much as you can about the game before playing for real money. Additionally, the demos give you the chance to explore other games that you would have otherwise never tried.


6) Set time limits

For a fact, gambling is so much fun! But like everything else, it should be done in moderation. One way to enjoy gambling without going overboard is by setting time limits. Determine how much time you are willing to spend playing the games. Once you have reached your limit, stop playing and come back another day. You can even set an alarm to keep you alert. This will help prevent you from becoming too engrossed in the game and losing track of time.


7) Don’t chase your losses

We have all been there- we have had a few bad rounds, and we want to make up for it by gambling more. Chasing losses is a huge mistake that a lot of people make. When you chase your losses, you are more likely to make impulsive decisions that could lead to bigger losses. The best thing to do is to accept that you lost and move on.


8) Always read game reviews

As mentioned earlier, there are so many casino games available online that it would be impossible to try all of them out. But you can get an idea of which games are worth your time by reading game reviews. These reviews are written by experts who have already tried the games, and can give you an insight into what to expect. Use this information to narrow down your search for the perfect casino game.


9) Develop a strategy

While gambling is a game of luck, there are some games where you can use strategies to become a pro gambler. For instance, in poker, you need to know when to hold ‘em and when to fold ‘em. In blackjack, you need to know when to hit and when to stand. If you want to be successful in online gambling, take the time to develop a strategy.



10) Have fun!

This one is arguably the most important thing on your list. Remember that gambling is supposed to be enjoyable and fun. If it starts to feel like a chore, then you are doing something wrong. Take a break and come back when you are feeling more relaxed. Chat rooms are a great way to socialize with other gamblers and make friends. Who knows, you might even learn some new tips!



Take Away

There you have it! These are just some of the things that you need to keep in mind when gambling online. Just remember to be responsible and have fun. Also, ensure you only play in a legitimate casino with a good reputation. And with virtual reality technology, the online gambling experience is becoming more and more realistic.

BingoPlus supports Miss Philippines Earth; pushes for environmental health, a sustaining planet

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BingoPlus, the first licensed online bingo game in the Philippines found a new way to push its advocacy for a greener, safer planet by supporting Miss Philippines Earth (MPE).

The beauty pageant whose unique purpose is to have its candidates and winners actively promote and help preserve the environment resonated with the gaming company whose driving philosophy is “Live responsibly and work with our community.”

BingoPlus will join MPE in its environmental awareness programs and environmental protection campaigns nationwide, getting its people involved in MPE’s upcoming events that include tree planting, beach clean-ups and tourist spots promotion.

On its own, BingoPlus had embarked on relief programs for towns and communities ravaged by calamities caused by climate change. BingoPlus (www.bingoplus.com) helped provide basic goods and rebuild homes destroyed by Typhoon Odette in Cebu and Bohol in December 2021.

“Initiatives conducted by BingoPlus under its mother company, Leisure & Resorts World Corporation are aligned with the goal of Miss Philippines Earth. We likewise believe in its 5R’s tenet: Re-think, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, and Respect,” said AB Leisure Exponent Inc. president Jasper Vicencio.

“BingoPlus is committed to the community it operates in. Bingo has been a major component of Filipino culture and is one of the traditional games to get the family together. Family bonding, socializing and entertainment get us through tough times and makes us upbeat about sharing positivity.

“As a company we aim to teach and create more livelihood programs so families can put more food on the table. We also aim to bridge and narrow the gap for students to gain access to better education, to promote health and wellness programs to benefit those afflicted with poor health; and to safeguard our environment and boost its sustainability,” Vicencio explained.

This year’s Miss Philippines Earth competition has the theme “ME Loves Fauna” and focuses attention on the importance of animal life to the biosphere and the ecosystem. It will be held live after two years of virtual staging as a result of the pandemic.

Philippines to Celebrate 125 Years of Independence, Nationhood

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The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) will launch the official logo for the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood 2023-2026 at Fort San Pedro, Cebu City on 3 August 2022. This coincides with the city’s hosting of the opening program for History Month 2022 on 3 August 2022 and the 9th Local Historical Committees Network (LHCN) General Assembly on 4 August 2022. The milestones’ theme is Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.

The multi-year commemoration highlights the birth of the Filipino nation from the proclamation of Philippine independence on 12 June 1898 in Kawit, Cavite until the end of the first Filipino government that lasted until the capture of President Emilio Aguinaldo in Palanan, Isabela on 23 March 1901. It aims to raise awareness among the Filipino people of our place in history as the earliest modern democracy and republic in Asia. Among its goals are the appraisal of democratic ideals and principles, universal human rights, justice, and the value of freedom and sovereignty.

The flagship project of this commemoration is the marking of around 100 sites along the path of Philippine independence and nationhood from Kawit to Palanan, and across the country. Each will receive a national historical marker and a standard memorial to be called “Landas ng Pagkabansang Pilipino” (Philippine Nationhood Trail). This is inspired by the 34 Quincentennial Historical Markers installed along the Philippine route of the first circumnavigation of the world in 2021.

Among the coverage of the milestones are:
1. 125th anniversary of the birth of the Philippine Flag and National Anthem in June 2023
2. 125th anniversary of the First Philippine Congress in Barasoain Church in September 2023
3. 125th anniversary of the First Philippine Constitution in January 2024
4. 125th anniversary of the First Philippine Republic in Malolos in January 2024
5. 125th anniversary of the Philippine-American War in January 2024
6. 125th anniversary of the Siege of Baler in June 2024
7. 125th anniversary of the Death of Antonio Luna and Gregorio del Pilar in June and December 2024


Member-Affiliates of the LHCN will also hold activities and projects in solidarity with the commemoration, highlighting stories from the provinces and regions on the birth of Philippine independence. The last time the national government commemorated a milestone event in Philippine independence and nationhood was in 1998 during the Philippine Centennial Celebrations under the tenure of the late President Fidel V. Ramos.

NHCP Chairperson and concurrent National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chairperson Rene R. Escalante and Cebu City Councilor and Acting Mayor Donaldo "Dondon" Hontiveros will lead the occasion. Fort San Pedro was selected as the venue of the launching activity because of its historical significance. It figured in the liberation of the Philippines from Spanish rule during its capture by Cebuano revolutionaries on 29 December 1898. It was also in Cebu where the Philippines took form in 1565.

The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine historical heritage through research and publication, conservation, marking of historic sites and structures, and administration of national shrines and museums.


REFERENCE: National Historical Commission of the Philippines

Microsoft Introduces Cloud for Sovereignty, the Most Flexible and Comprehensive Solution for Digital Sovereignt

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Governments and public sector customers around the world are looking to accelerate their digital transformation, creating opportunities for social and economic growth and enhancing citizen services. Last week, Microsoft announced Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty, a new solution that will enable public sector customers to build and digitally transform workloads in the Microsoft Cloud while meeting their compliance, security and policy requirements. Public sector customers can now harness the full power of Microsoft Cloud, including broad platform capabilities, resiliency, agility and security. With the addition of Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty, they will have greater control over their data and increased transparency to the operational and governance processes of the cloud.

Governments are obligated to meet specific requirements for varying data classifications including data governance, security controls, privacy of citizens, data residency, sovereign protections and compliant operations following legal regulations like the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). The Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty — offering governance, security, transparency and sovereign technology — combined with strategic partners can support the digital transformation of government customers unlike any other cloud provider in the world.



Helping customers leverage the cloud while meeting their unique needs

Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty is being built on the Microsoft public cloud to accelerate digital transformation while creating a customized experience adhering to government requirements. Government customers will have the power of the public cloud, addressing low cost, agility and scale expectations, with the full breadth of capabilities like modern developer services, agile infrastructure, secure DevOps, open-source platforms, modern collaboration and low-code development. Additionally, Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty customers will continue benefiting from Microsoft’s global security signals, analyzing over 24 trillion signals every day to identify and help protect against local attacks.

Data residency

The foundation of Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will start with Microsoft Azure regional datacenters. Today, with 60-plus cloud regions, the Microsoft Cloud delivers the broadest capabilities and innovation with data residency and proximity in more locations than any other cloud provider, enabling residency options for the entire Microsoft Cloud including Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365 and Azure. Enabled by Microsoft’s industry-leading policy controls, customers today can meet many regulatory requirements and implement policies to contain their data and applications within their preferred geographic boundary. Customers can specify the country or region for most service deployments with the ability to satisfy industry, national, or global security, privacy and compliance requirements.

Microsoft has the most comprehensive compliance coverage of any cloud service provider with 100-plus offerings including more than 50 which are specific to global regions and countries. Microsoft engages with governments, regulators, standards bodies and nongovernmental organizations to understand emerging requirements and ensure a fast and effective enablement of critical compliance needs.



Sovereign controls

Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will deliver capabilities that will provide customers with additional layers to protect and encrypt sensitive data. These capabilities span the entire Microsoft Cloud from cloud infrastructure, platform services and Software as a Service (SaaS) offerings like Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365 and Power Platform. Customers can leverage Azure Confidential Computing, an innovative technology offering sovereign protection with Confidential Virtual Machines and Confidential Containers. Microsoft’s unique offering utilizes specialized hardware to create isolated and encrypted memory called Trusted Execution Environments (or TEEs). Customer-owned encryption keys are confidentially and securely released directly from a Managed HSM (Hardware Security Module) into the TEEs executing on customer encrypted data. This secures customer keys, even while in-use, and ensures data is encrypted while at rest, in transit, and in use, helping protect data and keys against numerous security risks and operator access. Customers can benefit from this capability without having to change their application, creating an easy opportunity to leverage the power and scale of the public cloud while still ensuring their data is encrypted at all times. Confidential Compute capabilities extend into purpose-built platform services such as Azure SQL Always Encrypted with secure enclaves and Azure Confidential Ledger.

SaaS solutions like Double Key Encryption allow users in Microsoft 365 to classify emails and documents as “sensitive,” encrypting the customer data using customer-provided keys to protect data from both security risks and operator access. Furthermore, the Customer Lockbox for Microsoft 365, Customer Lockbox for Microsoft Azure, Customer Lockbox for Power Platform, and the forthcoming Customer Lockbox for Dynamics 365, all ensure that Microsoft will only access customer data to execute service operations when given explicit customer approval.

For customer workloads that require additional proximity, physical/operator control and separation, Azure Arc extends our Azure cloud services, management and governance capabilities into an existing or new on-premises environment. With this, customers can already secure and govern infrastructure and apps anywhere, build cloud-native apps faster with familiar tools and services to run them and modernize their data estate for consistent cloud operations

To simplify the complexity of the spectrum of data classification requirements, Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will include a Sovereign Landing Zone, a solution to simplify the architecture, deployment workflow and provide intelligent tools to orchestrate operations of Microsoft’s various security services and policy controls in a streamlined manner. The Sovereign Landing Zone is being built upon the enterprise scale Azure Landing Zone to recommend and enforce regulatory compliance using Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) and Policy-as-Code (PaC) capabilities built into Azure, which make deployments automatable, customizable, repeatable and consistent. This landing zone will also extend into Azure Information Protection (AIP), enabling policy and labeling for access control and protection on email and document data. This landing zone will be flexible enough to allow customers to define custom policies to meet specific industry and regulatory requirements. The landing zone will span the Microsoft public cloud, with tools to maintain data residency, deploy sovereign controls, protect data classification and extend into hybrid deployments, creating a single solution for all application needs.



Governance and transparency

Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will increase cloud transparency by expanding the Microsoft Government Security Program (GSP) to critical elements of Microsoft’s cloud offering, starting with key Azure infrastructure components. The GSP provides participants with the confidential security information and resources they need to trust Microsoft’s products and services. GSP participants currently include over 45 countries, including the Philippines and international organizations represented by more than 90 agencies. Eligible participants receive controlled access to source code, engage on technical content about Microsoft’s products and services, and have access to five globally distributed Transparency Centers. Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will also enable audit rights to examine Azure’s compliance processes and evidence under non-disclosure agreements and available audit terms.



Expertise

From the outset, Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty has been designed as a partner-led and partner-first solution. In-country partners will play a pivotal role in enabling customer success and delivering on government requirements.

Public sector customers worldwide are increasingly looking for customized cloud solutions that offer additional choice, flexibility and control. With the Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty, customers will work with in-country partners that have industry and technical experience to help them plan, onboard, govern and operate their cloud environments with capabilities including data residency, confidential computing, document classification and hybrid deployments. Partners will also add value by working with customers to customize the Sovereign Landing Zone, assisting with the audit programs mentioned above, and providing extra readiness, support and transparency. Microsoft recognizes that public sector customers have valued relationships with local technology providers and that every country has unique needs. Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty will offer the tools, the innovation, the processes and the transparency to put the power into the hands of knowledgeable and trusted partners that will support local governments on their digital transformation journey.

“We are beginning the initial private preview of Microsoft Cloud for Sovereignty in select locations, and we will share further details over time. As we continue to roll out and expand our solution footprint across our datacenter regions, we look forward to working closely with partners throughout the world to help government customers digitally transform, leveraging today’s powerful capabilities of the Microsoft Cloud,” said Corey Sanders, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Cloud for Industry and Global Expansion

UN Sasakawa Laureate Glenn Banaguas brings Mapua University to tears at 2022 commencement

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a happy twist of fate, Mapua University’s 2022 commencement address was delivered by an alumnus who didn’t even attend his own graduation from the same institution: internationally-awarded science diplomat Glenn Banaguas.

“My dear fellow Mapuans, our graduates… Being positive does not always mean life’s perfection; it signifies that any form of trial or negativity creates a path of success and opportunity,” he said as he addressed a crowd of over 400 graduates of the Class of 2022 last June 20 at the PICC Plenary Hall.

Following his speech, Banaguas was conferred the Most Outstanding Alumnus Award by his alma mater—a very surprising turn of events, he admits. He recalls his undergraduate years as a particularly tumultuous time for him personally: “I did pretty well for the first few years in Mapua. But I was a disappointment in my last years…,” he recalls.

When the time came for graduation, he said, not even his own adviser could persuade him to attend the commencement ceremony. But in the years following his graduation, Banaguas found a path for himself in public service.

In 2010 Banaguas set out as a pioneer science diplomat and founded the Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute (ECCRI) with the mantra, “A Service to the People and Environment is a Service to God.” He also started the “Climate Smart Philippines” program, which brings science and policy closer to the poorest communities and marginalized sectors in the country. These initiatives aim to reduce disaster risks and prevent potential damages and losses through scientific wide-ranging assessment, risk and impact analysis, capacity development, project management, and multilateral cooperation.

For his work, Banaguas was conferred the 2022 United Nations Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction, besting over 200 nominations worldwide to become the first individual Filipino winner in the award’s 35-year history. The award is bestowed on institutions, groups, and individuals that promote inclusive and resilient approaches to disaster risk reduction in line with the UN’s Sendai Framework.

The honor shot Banaguas to national fame, prompting his alma mater to invite him to this year’s commencement ceremony. “Lord, thank You for choosing me. Let Your will be done,” the proverbial Mapuan said, teary-eyed.

Below is the excerpt from his Commencement Speech that brought the graduation attendees to tears:

 

And for you, my dear fellow Mapuans, our graduates

This is my simple advice to you:

1.     Never ever get discouraged if you fail to get what you want. Remember God answer our prayers in 4 ways:

a.     Yes – Yes

I will give it to you because I know it is good for you.

b.     Yes – No

I will give it to you but not the way you want it.

c.     No – Yes

I am not going to give it to you today but you’ll have it someday.

d.     No – No

I am not going to give it to you because it is not good for you.

 

And if you fail, always remember these failures do not define who you are. What matters most is the number of times you stand up every time you fall.

 

2.     Never ever forget to be grateful for whatever undertaking that is given to you

Be like Simon of Cyrene. He was never an apostle of Jesus but had the chance to carry His cross on the way to the calvary. This cross may be defined as your difficulties, struggles, complications, and negativities. Embrace them constructively not because this is part of your destiny but because this will bring good things for you and your family.

 

3.     Never ever forget to be a wounded healer

You need to transform your pain into strength and suffering into learning. Yes, your greatest challenge is to provide the best services and bless others in your most difficult times. You need to heal the wounds of adversity and believe in the miracles of love and positivity.

 

4.     Never ever forget to be of service to others.

You have to have a heart for change. You need to respect the spheres of individuality invariably and penetrate the labyrinth of life unflinchingly. One day, you will build projects and develop programs for the industry.. for your company. And this is a guide,  no matter how technical your projects are, make sure that they will create positive changes in the lives of our people.

Touching their hearts, especially the local communities should be your top priority. You have to let them feel and realize that profession is not always a key in order to make a difference in society. It is their burning passion,  unquestionable character, and unswerving commitment that will make this world a better place.

 

5. Never ever forget to be humble

As you reach the top, never forget to look back.

There will come a time that the glory of the present will diminish. Things will evolve. The shine will fade. And if they happen, the virtue of humility will genuinely amplify integrity.

And last but not least,

6.     Never ever lose faith

Your experiences will teach you that no one was destined to be a victim, or condemned to be a martyr. It only means that your faith defines your journey.

Your experiences will educate you that being positive does not always mean life’s perfection. It signifies that any form of trial or negativity creates a path of success and opportunity.