CULTURE
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Google Maps Turns 20: Celebrating Two Decades of Discovering the Philippines
This year marks a significant milestone for Google Maps as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. For two decades, this revolutionary platform has not only transformed how we navigate the world but has also become an indispensable tool for exploring, connecting, and discovering the wonders of our planet. In the Philippines, Google Maps has played a pivotal role in showcasing the country’s vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to the serene beaches of Boracay, Google Maps has served as an invaluable guide for locals and tourists alike. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive information have empowered individuals to plan their journeys with ease, discover…
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Getting Meme-ified: Interesting Study Finds that Memes Improve Learning and Attitude Towards Science
Ateneo de Manila University researchers have found that using internet memes, such as reaction memes, template memes, and educational memes, to teach science can significantly improve learning outcomes for senior high school students. When I was growing up, I wasn’t mainly a Science whiz. No, not ever. My attitude towards the different sciences varied, perhaps depending on the topic or the teacher. However, in college, I realized that Biology and Biodiversity enamored me, remembering all the times when I listened intently to my teachers. A proud moment I can’t forget was at the end of my first-year Biology class when I raised my hand and summarized the day’s lesson about…
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The Critical Role of Cold Chain Management: Ensuring Quality, Compliance, and Sustainability
Cold chain corporations are the world’s unsung heroes, but can they live up to that? The COVID-19 lockdowns exacerbated their challenges because a huge percentage of the population was stuck in their homes, with only a skeletal workforce producing, processing, and distributing the most essential commodities in the world under the cold chain. However, problems with supply and distribution aren’t the only thing. Food safety, on top of employee safety, is another one that should be considered. Indeed, running the cold chain is difficult, making it a bigger market to invest in than conventional supply chains. Hence, there is a need for cold chain companies to adapt to changing times…
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Rethinking Capitalism: The “Why’s” of ESG and its Complex Necessity
Note: My ideas on ESG were highly influenced by my favorite supply chain podcasts and personalities, ESG Talk, Supply Chain Revolution and its host, Sheri R. Hinish, and Sandra Macquillian (EVP + CSCO of Mondelez), as well as all the books and journals I researched (I’m a huge fan of Simon Sinek and his works, particularly his “Why” series). I also used to follow news about the anti-fast fashion movement and love thrifted clothes. All my sources are hyperlinked in this article. For years, many corporations have received a bad rap. We’ve seen companies called out by regulatory government bodies and activists regarding their carbon emissions, deficiencies in employee benefits,…
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IKEA Celebrates Early Christmas with Its Biggest Price Drop Ever
The Christmas spirit has arrived early at IKEA Philippines, with the brand unveiling its largest-ever price drop, just in time for the holidays. True to its mission to “create a better everyday life for many people,” IKEA is once again making home living easier and more affordable for Filipino families. According to the IKEA Life at Home Report 2023, 43% of Filipinos are worried about their household finances and disposable income. Meanwhile, 38% say that not having enough money to take care of their home makes them feel less in control of their daily lives. In response, IKEA is stepping up to help Filipinos feel more empowered and find joy…
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Indonesia is Moving its Capital City. Here’s the Low-down on the Historic Event
My latest write-up for Aratum is an extensive article about Indonesia and President Joko Widodo’s project of rellocating their capital city from Jakarta to Nusantara. It’s an exciting endeavor as Widodo’s administration is set to create a smart and sustainable city. All the dreams of a tech-lover might come true, as experts suggest Indonesia to embrace cutting-edge solutions such as AI, cloud-based technology, machine learning, and automation to be successful in the move. Widodo may have all those in mind, especially since his administration is giving rise to blockchain by accepting cryptocurrency payments for real estate purchases in Nusantara. Read more about Indonesia’s capital relocation here:
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UP Study Warns of Heightened Typhoon Intensity this Century
“There’s no harm in hoping for the best as long as you’re prepared for the worst.” ― Stephen King New findings from the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Science’s Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (UPD-CS IESM) indicate that the Philippines may face more potent and damaging typhoons due to climate change. Dr. Rafaela Jane Delfino and Dr. Gerry Bagtasa, collaborating with UK counterparts, reveal that upcoming Philippine typhoons could possess a higher Cyclone Damage Potential (CDP) compared to current ones. CDP, incorporating factors like cyclone size and wind speed, serves as a metric assessing potential damage costs, particularly from winds. The researchers analyzed data from recent typhoons,…
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The Rise of Generative AI: Are Writers Replaceable by ChatGPT?
The rise of AI, particularly generative AI, has been the hot potato. Many content creators have been introducing generative AI tools, and marketers are seen offering AI-related courses for their niche. There is no doubt that we are in the midst of a shift in the world, whatever industry we may be. It’s an exciting transformation for humanity, but most of us see an apparent danger in AI. Why is this the case? It lies in the fact that many have been wary of this transition. Workers are terrified that AI might replace them. Well, unfortunately, due to the rise of generative AI, jobs have been lost. It has been…
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An AI-powered Baybayin Translator is being Developed by UP Mathematicians
Here’s an exciting news for language, communications, and history enthusiasts out there. For those people who have been wanting to learn Baybayin like me but don’t have enough time, I guess a smart, AI-powered translator can help us bit by bit. A group of Filipino mathematicians has recently achieved a significant breakthrough by inventing a computerized method to convert complete paragraphs and even documents written in the ancient Filipino Baybayin writing system into easily comprehensible text, accessible to non-native readers. Currently, they are diligently developing a comprehensive two-way translator for Baybayin, aiming to facilitate seamless communication and understanding between the ancient script and modern languages. The University of the Philippines…
