#BLOG4

[silas-ng-dc-blog]

Fans or Fanatics?

We all have expressed our admiration for a celebrity at least once in our entire lives. Be it towards a famous music artist, actor, author or sports athlete, humans are not shy when it comes to showing our passion towards the talent of others. Fandom, as its name suggests, is a community made up of fans that show the same interests in a certain topic. A.R.M.Y, a fandom of the popular K-pop group BTS, is an example of a fandom that is heavily devoted to defending their favorite boy band. They come together to support the group’s success, defend any attempts to scrutinize them as well as celebrate their idols’ achievements. Fandoms are basically 'hubs' of superfans. 

According to Later (N.D), a “fandom” refers to a community of fans who are deeply passionate about a specific form of entertainment, like a TV show, movie series, book, video game, or music group. On social media however, “fandom” describes a group of fans who bond over a shared enthusiasm for a specific person, franchise, celebrity, TV show, movie, book, or other forms of entertainment. More specifically, the word “fan” in “fandom” is derived from the word “fanatic”, which usually carries a somewhat negative meaning (Iyengar V., 2022).  The word was initially used to refer to people who were passionate about sports, however, the term slowly changed its meaning and came to describe people with an unrelenting interest towards pop culture-related topics.

The formation of fandoms can be attributed to humans and history. We as a species have evolved to thrive in groups, seeking a sense of community and identity with others. According to Team MindPeers (2023), the idols we look up to, the stories that connect with us, and the collective people of fandoms we share experiences with all play a role in shaping our personal narratives and, ultimately, our identity. Other than just connecting with others, fandoms allow us a break from reality and the routine of everyday life (Team MindPeers, 2023).

The significance of fandoms in today’s society is immense, and it begs the question, who is more prone to join a fandom? Temming M., (2022) notes that people with empathy are more inclined to fall in love with fictional worlds or become a superfan. Empathy allows them to connect emotionally to the fictional characters, topics, or celebrities more often than others and these people tend to put themselves in the situations of others. Another characteristic of fans that determines their likelihood of joining fandoms is how easily they connect with the story (Temming M., 2022). The immersion of a fictional story can change the perspective of an individual and can in turn, foster a fandom.

An aspect of fandoms that people usually shrug off is the ability for fandoms to carry out acts of solidarity, support, and sometimes, even activism. “Directioners”, fans of the popular English boy band One Direction, helped raise 2 million pounds for Red Nose Day, and this paired with various other fundraising efforts by the fandom lead to the creation of “Action/1D”, One Direction’s very own charity (Lavelle B., 2024). It’s not just music fandoms that have used their power for good of people, other fandoms such as the anime and manga fandoms have their writers participate in events as well. These writers will create custom work based on the good acts of charity to Palestinians by fans (Lavelle B., 2024).  

However, more people means more opinions, and in big fandoms where the number of people is vast, there is bound to be high volatility and many disagreements. Some fandoms may even come together to spread their dissatisfaction on someone or something, and this act of hate can lead to disastrous consequences. The term used to describe this phenomenon is “toxic fandom”, a dark side of fandom that the majority of people generally associate with fans. Most of these negative acts are carried out online in websites or forums such as Twitter and Reddit, although they can also be observed in physical meetings or conventions (Vinney C., 2023). An infamous example of toxic fandoms carrying out their repulsive acts is in 2016 when a segment of the “Ghostbusters” fandom opposed the reboot of the original movie and directed racist and misogynistic tweets at star Leslie Jones (Vinney C., 2023).

All in all, fandoms, while often celebrated for their passion and dedication towards their shared interests, are complex communities that can bring good and harm to others. The sense of identity and belonging that these communities provide further notes their importance in our society. Ultimately, the power of fandoms lies in the hands of those who are in it. As fandoms around the world continue to evolve, it is essential that we acknowledge its capacity for both good and bad, and that we can approach it with an open-minded perspective.

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References:

Fandom, Later, viewed 13th November 2024, https://later.com/social-media-glossary/fandom/

Iyengar V., 18th July 2022, What Is the Psychology of Celebrity Fandoms?, Psych Et Al, viewed 13th November 2024, https://www.psychetal.com/post/what-is-the-psychology-of-celebrity-fandoms

Lavelle B., 18th September 2024, How fandoms create communities and support larger causes, IndigenousX, viewed 13th November 2024, https://indigenousx.com.au/how-fandoms-create-communities-and-support-larger-causes/

Team MindPeers, 3rd August 2023, Behind The Screens: Unraveling the Psychology Behind Fandoms, MindPeers, viewed 13th November 2024, https://blog.mindpeers.co/behind-the-screens-unraveling-the-psychology-behind-fandoms

Temming M., 10th November 2022, Why fandom feels good – and may be good for you, ScienceNewExplores, viewed 13th November 2024, https://www.snexplores.org/article/fandom-fan-psychology-comiccon-marvel-fiction

Vinney C., 28th November 2023, What Are Toxic Fandoms?, VeryWellMind, viewed 13th November 2024, https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-toxic-fandom-5214499

[mabinijamaica04]

MABINI,JAMAICA C.

12-E ABM

[jetlagface]

January 5th 2025

I think it was needed to have this conversation I'm having right now but it still is putting a heavy feeling on my heart that I wish would just go away.

It's not like I am still sitting here and brewing over it, I left it unsaid and overly done so I could move on and just be grateful the connection remained and was able to heal itself naturally but I don't know.

Maybe I'm a sucker for letting hurt things fester or maybe I am not as healed over as I thought I was.

There is the part of it that still remains that I understand and it's the fear of being left alone again. I am really grateful to her for sticking around with me after everything happened because I know I couldn't have been fun.

I feel guilt for treating her like she is just another member of the group, even sometimes maybe leaning into my teasing too hard, because I truly don't know what had happened.

We aren't the cheesy type of friends but I wonder if they think about how important this might be.

I've always had friends even when I was younger and more angsty and thinking it was me against the world but I never once had a best friend and I can find a dozen journal entries where I mourn this.

Paragraphs where I beg the universe to just send me one soul that could walk side by side with me.

And then it sent me three (ten years after I had asked but they were worth the wait).

So it is bone rattling to remember how quickly it was ripped out from under me because before the fight I had never once considered a world where we stopped being friends which is ironic when you remember the first thing I think upon meeting anyone is when they will leave me.

Now it's on my mind constantly every time I make a harsh joke or one of them takes a few extra hours to respond.

Having so many core personalities mixing together can be a lot of fun but apparently explosive when things are falling apart and I feel like my chest tightens up every time I remember that night I stayed up for hours begging for her to stay my friend just to be met with the coldest things said back.

Things I don't think she remembers, things she'd probably laugh about saying if I brought it up now.

The only other time I had felt like that was with the guy I can't think of a good codename for but even then it wasn't as direct.

I've always put my friendships over love but that was my first time really being faced with the fact that no other connection could make me feel as strongly as I did that night. Nothing has ever broken my heart more and maybe I should give myself some grace for not feeling okay.

Maybe I will feel better now that I've talked about it with Red Line because she is the only one it creeps up on me with.

Not because she hurt me more than anybody else during the disaster but I think because her opinion matters to me more.

Bambi is hot headed and she has the most personality I've ever seen on a single human. Not to mention I was the front row witness to her flipping a switch on her best friend before me and while I think it was justified, maybe I should have been prepared for the fact I could end up on the other side of that.

Miles reminds me of a child in both antics and naivety to the world, not sure if I say this fondly or with a taste of bitterness but I had assumed she would go along with whatever the outcome would be and I wasn't far off.

Maybe I am being too harsh again but sometimes I wish she'd prove me wrong and offer me a strong stance on either side of things, give me anything that told me she had a mind of her own but she didn't. I want that for her, I really do.

And then there's Red Line and the ever complicated route we take when it comes to anything, so twisted that I'm not sure she even understands it.

I wonder if she realizes I am staring in one half of a romcom by myself, trapped in an endless poem that trails on and on and leaves you wanting and willing for a clear conclusion that just tells you what to think.

The universe is apparently leaving it up to interpretation so strongly that I can't even figure out how I feel.

Fact is that I think about her differently than I do the other two and I think about her more often. Fact is I wonder if it this intense because we are playing into it or if there is a lot unsaid underneath the ridiculous things we do say. Fact is I wonder if I was even this interested in Lack of Codename or if that was the real fantasy.

She might find it ridiculous that I think of her as a part of the city I grew up loving, obsessing over.

Maybe she already knows and that's why she keeps reminding me I hated it when I was actually there but I will keep telling her that I still want to go back, spend a little more time and a little more effort.

Stupid symbolism and my inability to say anything directly.

[oysterockfella]

55 More Holiday Seasons Or Maybe less

I dont know, nothings really good 

Nothings really bad 

Running (barely) late 

To finish fast 

Yet the gun hasn’t gone off 

To get off 

the starting line 

It keeps restarting because 

I can’t keep myself from falling

10 meters out 

5.5 thousand more to go 

Maybe thats a stupid metaphor 

Nothing makes sense and it hasn’t for a while 

I can’t wait for thanksgiving 

And it’s a dreaded time

Something always goes wrong 

It’s the holiday spirit

But the spirit that haunts me isn’t a joyful one 

Or one that wants to change my mind on the holidays 

It’s one that pulls the strings to make time pass 

A little faster then usual 

Makes the moon shine bright

and the shore pull forward

To cause my mind to drown 

In high tides

I don't know this is dumb I don't take it seriously. I don't consider this poetry. Just letting my run free.

[achie-blog]

Week 3-4: Business Interview 👩‍💼

Hello everyone, I'm back with more insights and information about various companies and businesses. On September 7 and 19, 2024, my groupmates—Jessa, Ian, Francen—and I had the opportunity to interview another five different businesses: GREEN & SWEETS, QUADRO OCHO INC, FMN AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY INC., COLOR MIX PAINT CENTER and JAY-Q GRAINS RICE TRADING. During these interviews, we gathered valuable insights into their operations and the stories behind how each business was established.

GREEN & SWEETS

Green and Sweets, owned by Ms. Regina Jandoc, is located at Door 4, FLC Building, Marigold Street, Carmen. The business was established in 2021 while she was still a student. Although she doesn't have any formal business partners, she considers her family's business as a key support system. The business initially started online, using Instagram as its platform. During the pandemic, her father began selling hydroponically grown lettuce. She felt that selling just lettuce was too limited, so she decided to diversify, combining her love for cooking and baking. This passion inspired her to offer healthy food options like salads, sandwiches, and kani rolls. Additionally, she incorporated cookies into the menu, a product she began selling while she was in senior high school. This blend of healthy food and sweets is how Green and Sweets came to be. All the recipes are her own creations, inspired by her love for watching cooking shows and love to cook in the kitchen.

While she initially baked the cookies herself, the growing demands of the business led her to pass this responsibility to her sister, who has since turned it into a business of her own. Green and Sweets targets health-conscious consumers, especially those who are picky eaters or are transitioning into healthier lifestyles. The business aligns with the trend of people seeking more nutritious food options.Green and Sweets now has two physical branches: one in Carmen, which opened in May 2023, and another in Barra, established this year at her mother's request to have a business. The business employs five staff members across both branches, with employees often rotating between the two locations. Additionally, they offer catering services for events. When establishing the physical stores, her first step was securing a location, as it was necessary for acquiring a business permit. She then processed the necessary documents, including registration with DTI, securing a business permit, and complying with BIR requirements. She had already obtained her DTI registration during the online phase of her business. For documentation and bookkeeping, she relies on the help of a bookkeeper, as her family also owns another business aside from Green and Sweets.

CUADRO OCHO INCORPORATED

We had the opportunity to interview Ms. Marichu Villanueva, the manager of the Cuadro Ocho Inc. branch in Carmen. She shared that the business was established on August 8, 1988. Located at Max Y. Suniel Street, Corner Ipil Street in Cagayan de Oro, this branch is one of 11, with the main branch based in Cebu City. The business operates as a corporation, employing 10 staff at the Carmen branch and nearly 300 across all locations. Originally founded by a group of business-minded friends in Iligan City, the company started by selling lumber before expanding into retail and wholesale hardware and construction materials.

Ms. Villanueva explained that the process of setting up the business starts with securing first the necessary documents. Since it is a corporation, they must be registered with the SEC. Next, BIR registration is essential for issuing official receipts, filing taxes, and qualifying for tax credits or deductions. Additionally, since it is a corporation they must file a General Information Sheet (GIS) to comply with legal transparency requirements. Finally, the Articles of Incorporation, which detail key information like the company’s name and objectives, must be submitted also, along with the Bylaws, which define the internal rules for corporate operations such as meetings and decision-making. She also emphasized the importance of selecting a location for the physical store, noting that it would be beneficial to have foot traffic. Additionally, having a parking lot would be ideal, as vehicles are needed to transport materials.

FMN AGRICULTURAL SUPPLY INC

FMN Agricultural Supply Inc. is a business owned by Ms. Nunez F. Concepcion, established on May 18, 2006, and located on V. Neri St., Cagayan de Oro City. Mrs. Guanita H. Tato, the branch manager, was the one we interviewed and provided information. The business is selling feeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. It operates 11 branches in total, with the main branch located on Osmeña Extension, Cagayan de Oro City, which serves as the primary supplier for the other branches. Their warehouse is situated in Baloy.

Mrs. Tato explained that, for the business to operate, they had to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), as well as obtain a business permit. They also secured a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate, a Sanitary Permit, a Certificate of Registration, and a License to Operate. Additionally, they have official receipts and invoices and are required to attend training programs such as those offered by the Red Cross and Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH).

She also mentioned that different permits are required for feeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. For fertilizers and pesticides, they need to obtain a license from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), which ensures their products meet the safety and quality standards set by the government. While most documents are renewed annually, the FPA license must be renewed every three years.

COLOR MIX PAINT CENTER

Color Mix Paint Center, owned by Mrs. Teresita Cabutad, was established in 2012 and located on Castro Street in Cagayan de Oro City. This small business specializes in selling a variety of paints, catering to both residential and commercial customers. Operating with a dedicated team of just two staff members, including Mrs. Cabutad. Open from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Saturday.

To operate her business legally and efficiently, Mrs. Cabutad has secured several essential documents. She obtained a registration from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which legitimizes her business and protects its name. Additionally, she registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to ensure compliance with tax regulations. A sanitary permit is also in place, confirming that the business meets health and safety standards. Furthermore, a barangay clearance is maintained, demonstrating that the business is recognized by the local community, and a business permit is held to operate within the city legally. Together, these documents provide a solid foundation for her business operations and help build trust with her customers.

JAY-Q GRAINS RICE TRADING

Jay-Q Grains Rice Trading, owned by Mr. Garciano Baldelamar, is located on Castro Street, Cagayan de Oro City. The business, which operates with just two staff members, specializes in selling rice both in retail and wholesale. During our interview with Ms. Analya Tagaro, an all around staff member, she shared information about the pricing, with a half sack of rice costing either ₱1,140 or ₱1,340, depending on the brand. The store operates from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Sunday.

Ms. Tagaro also discussed the essential documents the business has secured to operate smoothly. Jay-Q Grains Rice Trading is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). The business holds a business permit and a barangay clearance, ensuring compliance with local laws. Additionally, they maintain official invoice receipts and a certificate of registration, including an official receipt from Red Cross Training. Ms. Tagaro emphasized that their documents are complete and up-to-date, which has helped them avoid penalties. She also highlighted the importance of keeping these documents visible in the store, as this ensures transparency and compliance with regulations.

❤️

Link for Insight!

[hannah-montana-itl]

The State of Human Rights in the Philippines: Yay or Nay?

The fundamental human rights that should be universally protected are outlined in the historic Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). These rights include the freedoms of expression, assembly, and association, life, liberty, and security, and the right to an efficient remedy for rights violations. As a United Nations member, the Philippines is obligated to respect and defend the human rights of all of its inhabitants and is bound by the goals and objectives of the UDHR.

It is essential that action be taken in response to the serious and urgent problem of the Philippines' human rights situation. Human rights abuses were widely reported throughout the Duterte administration, especially in connection with the government's divisive war on narcotics. Thousands of people have died as a result of the campaign; many of them were suspected drug dealers or users who were shot dead by vigilantes or police. The way the Duterte administration has handled human rights issues is extremely alarming and has damaged the nation's standing internationally.

These worries have only grown since President Bongbong Marcos was elected; his family's record of violating human rights during his father's administration in the 1980s is well-established. Although Marcos has refuted these accusations and promised to protect human rights as president, his selection of people with dubious human rights backgrounds has drawn criticism.

The new administration must act decisively to address human rights concerns and guarantee that the government is held responsible for any potential violations. This entails dealing with the underlying reasons of the drug problem as an alternative to using coercive and violent methods. In addition, the government must guarantee that human rights advocates and journalists can do their jobs without fear of violence, intimidation, or harassment. In addition, the government needs to act to address the structural problems like poverty, inequality, and limited access to healthcare and education that lead to abuses of human rights. The government may contribute to the creation of a more just and equitable society where everyone is able to enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms by addressing these underlying challenges.

In conclusion, I am convinced that the government and civil society in the Philippines need to act immediately to improve the terrible situation of human rights in the country. President Bongbong Marcos's new administration needs to act decisively to address human rights concerns and hold the government responsible for any potential violations. In order to establish a society in which every person may exercise their fundamental rights and freedoms and where the government truly operates for the people, and by the people.

[j4mes1]

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[mimirpipart]

BLOG #4: Profiling Art Patrons of A Certain Class

The Power of Art

The arts served the nation numerous times, such as in the pre-colonial era when these were present in many ritualistic-cultural daily practices. And during the colonialists' take-over, prominent members of the Katipunan, like Macario Sakay, Aurelio Tolentino, and Andres Bonifacio, appeared in plays performed at Teatro Porvenir as a component of propaganda against the colonizers, Jose Rizal with his novels, and many more. 

Today, the arts are still a means for igniting a revolution against oppression and corruption. But with great power comes great responsibility, and as the arts flourish thanks to the construction of museums and galleries, so does the force of those who desire to use its illusory powers as if adding another definition to the arts as a capitalistic venture. One of the many galleries that have amassed a reaction is the AAG or Ateneo Art Gallery, notable for housing a variety of donated artworks, including some pieces bought by tycoons, an article "176 Gifts/ 176 Dispossessions" written by Angelo Suarez and Donna Miranda discusses in depth the fickle freedom of our nation balancing itself on the backs of the comprador Burgis.

We're aware that presents aren't self-serving tools used to flaunt and raise the position and fortune of the donor. It is a readiness to contribute without expecting anything in return. But in the case of Fernando Zobel, a Filipino businessman of Spanish descent, a mestizo who benefitted from the colonial landgrabs as mentioned within the article, and also a billionaire tycoon who has the power and influence to shift the country's economy, is it not self-serving to donate art and have their names deodorized and become more attractive to other capitalists and businesses, almost advertising to the world of how much credit they have? They own a bank (BPI) and the Ayala Corporation’s subsidiary Manila Water!

Retrieved from: 176 Gifts/176 Dispossessions by Angelo V. Suárez + Donna Miranda

Artsy Oligarchy

Nowadays, oligarchs that express themselves as art patrons and lovers in the media say they are doing this to contribute to the community to give back. But how do art-washing and gentrification benefit the natives, the marginalized, and the impoverished? 

No doubt this family (Zobel de Ayalas) has mastered the power of art-washing. Are we sure that what they are doing, despite Fernando Zobel de Ayala and many members' artistic backgrounds, is that they are ethically patrons of the arts? 

Isn't it odd that whenever a new land and metro area is in the process of development, like Nuvali, in Canlubang, hailed as Ayala Land's southern urban fulcrum, cultural and artistic festivities are seemingly prevalent, hosting that we, the people, made this possible, as Filipinos with great talent and an eye for the arts we should celebrate (Ramirez, 2008)!? The family's patriarch, Don Jaime, was inaugurating "Bravo Filipino," an event showcasing Philippine music, art, and fashion located at Greenbelt 5. The mall (Greenbelt) was perhaps the only one in the nation managed by a museum (Ayala Museum), at that time (Ramirez, 2008). Don Jaime expressed his dismay at the notion that Filipinos must be successful abroad to receive high honors at home (Ramirez, 2008). What he mentioned had some merit because we Filipinos recognize talent when it is displayed in other countries, particularly the West, as voiced by Don Jaime. The issue is that practically all of the artists in Bravo Filipino, whom Don Jaime expressed as a chance to discover local artists, are already well-known in the eyes of the global art world and the Filipino people, such as Ryan Cayabyab and Louie Ocampo, even though it intended to emphasize the discovery of our local artists, seemingly another art-washing strategy to capitalize on their businesses and products. And the Ayala Museum itself houses precious artifacts such as the Golden Bowl found in Siargao del Sur by a Filipino worker by the name of Berto Morales, that also found other golden artifacts, whose family was kidnapped but sold back for ransom due to his discovery which is now serving unsavory middlemen (Fish, 2015). The Ayala Museum now has control of the Golden Bowl. I never saw full disclosure of the discovery of these historical artifacts or recognition of their discoverers, who may have been regular people just trying to make ends meet but felt vindicated when artifacts from their history turned into a double-edged sword because of the greed of the ruling class that did more harm than good. And artworks by renowned artists, such as the rediscovered "Hymen, oh Hyménée! (Roman Wedding)," by Juan Luna, as if the Philippines were a warehouse nation to store their riches through collections of art and galleries that further decorate their name, masking as a messiah that our history is accessible for 650 and/or 350 (discounted) pesos admission that would circulate within the economy of one family who can sustain numerous cities and even islands (Ayala Museum, n.d). 

Retrieved from: asiasociety.org /blog by Eric Fish/.Bowl. Surigao Treasure, Surigao del Sur province. Ayala Museum, 81.5179. Photography by Neal Oshima; Image courtesy of Ayala Museum. An object uncovered by Berto Morales in 1981.

Retrieved from: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/06/11/2273024/juan-lunas-long-lost-masterpiece-unveiled-ayala-museum-multimedia-show. Headline by Lisa Guerrero Nakpil. Juan Luna’s long-lost masterpiece, ‘Hymen, oh Hyménée! (Roman Wedding)’

Therefore, don't we feel as if we're being baited, through art-washing, much like the manipulation methods of our former Spanish colonists, but instead of artistic and cultural ventures, using the power of religion to enable control among the islands and changing their culture? The glorification of being saved through Christianity under foreign rule. I cannot stop metaphorizing this family with our colonizers, having known their family comprador initiatives in the past. Reading and observing the family dynasty seems to be a form of postmodern colonization, much like the messianic guise of our Spanish colonizers. If we focus on the museums of the modern day, like the Ayala Museum, aren't they like the cathedrals of Spanish friars? Do we see ourselves represented in a museum that felt like our culture was another exotic attraction, our culture, and arts to be profited by the ruling class? As if figuratively, we've returned to the depictions of Spanish priests subtlety calling us indios, but now within the confines of a museum whose name constantly reminds us of our past.

What is a Gift?

I can't seem to disagree with the essays on "176 gifts/176 dispossessions," indeed, the arts have become so entrenched in neoliberal ideals that skew the essence of museums and the artists in the art and the art itself -a despairing truth. Much like NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), may they like it or not, these aren't for aesthetics or any other meaning of art but for their economic capital and hold on to the global trade, despite their owners' descriptions of it as "unique and inimitable." 

Dare I say these cultural art festivities and donated pieces by the Ayalas aren't truly philanthropic, nor do they serve as gifts for the masses to be enlightened but to heighten their influence and hide the gentrification and displacement If they'd want to contribute to the Filipino people's art ventures and cultures they would've given gifts that serve local artists, starving artists, and communities unable to spend extra to travel to the urban metropolitan areas. To build and donate galleries situated without the subtlety of advertising their billionaire clan name. Gifts do not glorify the giver but acknowledge and support the receiver. 

The article has really cemented the issue of modern-day corruption and even postmodern colonialism, which goes beyond just the gifts of these tycoons to AAG, much like the issues of the Ayalas and the irony of their museum and buildings being in every center of gentrified-marketable urban cities. Are we sure that these are still gifts? What good is a mall to a local farmer and our urban poor who used to live within these lands but now live within the slums of such "gifts?"

Alcantara. PFC

Reference:

Ayala Museum. (n.d.). Visitor Information. Retrieved June 11, 2023, from https://www.ayalamuseum.org/visit/

Fish, E. (2015, September 11). A Golden Discovery in the Philippines. Asia Society. https://asiasociety.org/blog/asia/golden-discovery-philippines

Ramirez, J.R.M. (2008, February 14). Philippine Star Global. Don Jaime and Fernando Zobel de Ayala: The empire gives back. https://www.philstar.com/other-sections/newsmakers/2008/02/14/44358/don-jaime-and-fernando-zobel-de-ayala-empire-gives-back

[lukeagain5732]

Hello! It’s 7s-blog4. I just got terminated with no notice and for no reason! Would you please reply so I can hook up with you again as my new account 7s-blog5 ? Thanks!

…sure! Let’s reconnect!

[whisper-and-tangle]

WRONGBLOG.....mewghen i post on.my the blog4 tnagle adns whisper.insteads of tghe tnagle.Onetnagle day post.;thigny.;ss. . ya:3

[donvictor77777]

Blog4:Guidelines for Brazil: Developing and Submitting an NBSAP

Guidelines for Brazil: Developing and Submitting an NBSAP

Overview  

Brazil has a unique opportunity to harness its rich biodiversity while aligning conservation efforts with sustainable finance and climate goals. This strategic roadmap provides high-level guidance on preparing, drafting, and submitting a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). It also outlines methods to engage diverse stakeholders and effectively communicate with the financial sector.

Key Steps for Submission  

Establish a Coordination Unit: Form a cross-ministerial team to oversee data collection, drafting, and review.  

Conduct a Biodiversity Assessment: Gather and analyze data on ecosystems and species; involve academic partners for validation.  

Draft the NBSAP: Set clear objectives, targets, and timelines aligned with national priorities and global commitments.  

Consult & Validate: Organize stakeholder workshops for feedback from communities, NGOs, academia, and the private sector.  

Finalize & Submit: Refine the document based on input and coordinate with relevant agencies for official submission.

Engaging Stakeholders  

Multi-Stakeholder Platform: Create a group including local communities, NGOs, academic experts, and businesses to guide the process.  

Regional Workshops: Host local meetings to incorporate region-specific insights.  

Transparent Communication: Use online platforms and regular updates to ensure accountability and shared ownership.  

Capacity Building: Provide training and technical support to empower stakeholder contributions.

Communicating with the Financial Sector  

Develop a Strategic Narrative: Link biodiversity conservation with economic resilience and long-term sustainable development.  

Early Financial Engagement: Organize roundtables with banks, investors, and institutions to discuss risks and opportunities.  

Innovative Financing: Explore options such as debt-for-nature swaps, green bonds, and blended finance models.  

Performance Metrics & Alignment: Set clear indicators and align the plan with Brazil’s climate action and net-zero targets.

[falcongraphics]

https://www.falcongraphics.co/blog4.html

[teye15262]

Benefits of Preventive HVAC Maintenance Contracts

HVAC maintenance is not something that you do when you suspect that the systems are not functioning optimally. Regular maintenance can improve the efficiency and longevity of your system. By investing in a preventive maintenance contract, you are not just protecting your systems from costly breakdowns, but your property and its indoor air quality. A well-maintained HVAC system ensures optimal performance, providing consistent comfort and fresh air throughout the year. Don't wait for a breakdown to happen; an HVAC system is your investment, protect it with a preventive maintenance contract from HVAC maintenance companies in Qatar today.

Here are some steps in which you can do that:

In preventative maintenance, the technical team will conduct routine inspections, cleaning, and tune-ups, and they will help identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems. By being proactive, you can prolong the life of your HVAC system and reduce the cost of repairs. Additionally, efficient equipment translates to lower energy consumption, resulting in reduced utility bills.

Read more: https://thirdeyegroups.com/blog4

[cocotanglikescars]

Blog4

Reel Bad Arabs

I think this documentary, enlarged the negative appearance of Arabs and Arab culture in Hollywood films. From watching this film, I felt very strong stereotypes from the others towards them, making them the villains, and terrorists. This documentary reminded me of the Disney film Aladdin, the film shows mystical and violent stereotypes.

[john-wi]

Hello! It’s 7s-blog4. I just got terminated with no notice and for no reason! Would you please reply so I can hook up with you again as my new account  7s-blog5  ? Thanks!

John-wi

[karajage]

Staying Ahead with Innovation: The Technology Advantage of CaaS

In today's world, businesses and organizations are constantly seeking ways to improve their bottom line and environmental footprint.Traditionally, businesses have opted to purchase and maintain their own cooling equipment, such as chillers and boilers. However, a new and innovative approach is gaining traction: Cooling as a Service (CaaS).

What is CaaS?

CaaS is a pay-as-you-go model for cooling, similar to how you pay for utilities such as electricity or water. Instead of purchasing and maintaining your own equipment, you partner with a CaaS provider who owns, installs, operates, and maintains the cooling system for a fixed monthly fee. This fee typically includes the cost of the equipment, energy consumption, maintenance, and repairs.

Reduced Upfront Costs:

CaaS eliminates the need for a large upfront capital investment in purchasing cooling equipment. This can free up valuable resources for other business priorities. Instead of a large upfront cost, CaaS typically involves a subscription-based model, allowing businesses to spread the cost of cooling over time and improve cash flow

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Improved Efficiency and Sustainability:

CaaS providers have a vested interest in ensuring the efficiency of their cooling systems. They are motivated to use the latest, most energy-efficient equipment and implement best practices to minimize energy consumption. This translates to lower operating costs for businesses and a reduced environmental footprint.

Expert Maintenance and Support:

CaaS providers handle all maintenance and repair needs, freeing up valuable time and resources for businesses.

Increased uptime and reliability:

CaaS providers typically have a team of experienced technicians available 24/7 to ensure that your cooling system is up and running.

Improved sustainability:

CaaS providers often use environmentally friendly technologies and practices, such as water-based cooling systems or renewable energy sources.

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Case Studies:

INSEAD Business School, Singapore 

By switching to CaaS, INSEAD achieved a 70% reduction in cooling energy consumption within just six months, resulting in significant cost savings and environmental benefits.

Confidential Manufacturing Facility, North America: 

A large manufacturing facility adopted CaaS and experienced a 20% reduction in their cooling energy costs, along with improved system uptime and reduced maintenance burden.

The Rockefeller Foundation (New York City): 

The Rockefeller Foundation partnered with a CaaS provider to upgrade its cooling system, which resulted in annual energy cost savings of $200,000.

Beyond the benefits mentioned above, CaaS can also offer:

Access to cutting-edge technology: 

CaaS providers are at the forefront of cooling technology and can offer businesses access to the latest advancements, which may not be readily available for individual purchase.

Reduced risk of equipment obsolescence: 

With CaaS, businesses don't need to worry about their cooling equipment becoming outdated. The provider is responsible for ensuring the system remains up-to-date and functioning optimally

Peace of mind: 

With CaaS, businesses don't need to worry about their cooling equipment becoming outdated. The provider is responsible for ensuring the system remains up-to-date and functioning optimally

Conclusion :

CaaS offers a compelling alternative to the traditional model of owning and maintaining cooling equipment. By opting for CaaS, businesses and organizations can benefit from significant cost savings, improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance burden, increased uptime, and improved sustainability. As CaaS technology continues to evolve, it is likely to become an increasingly popular choice for businesses of all sizes.