Latest news with #NewPerspectiveMediaGroup
Filipino Times
07-03-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
The Filipino Times expands its prestigious Watchlist Awards to country levels before advancing to regional rounds
The Filipino Times is proud to announce an exciting expansion of the highly acclaimed The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards. Responding to overwhelming public demand and aligning with international best practices, the awards will now be launched on a per-country level before progressing to the regional competition. This significant move ensures a more localized and inclusive approach in recognizing the top Filipino engineers, architects, and healthcare professionals in the Middle East. The winners from each country will then advance to compete in the regional round—The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Awards in the Middle East. Global expansion of The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards Building on its success in the Middle East, The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards will also expand to key regions worldwide, with upcoming editions planned in Asia Pacific, the UK and Europe, and the Americas. This expansion reaffirms the commitment to honoring Filipino excellence on a global stage, recognizing the outstanding contributions of professionals in multiple industries across the world. Upcoming country-level awarding dates For transparency and accuracy, the 2025 edition of The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects and The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Healthcare Professionals will take place in three awarding locations. Saudi Arabia will host the awarding for winners from Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, while Qatar will host the awarding for winners from Qatar and Kuwait. Meanwhile, UAE will serve as the venue for the awarding of winners from UAE and Oman. The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects 2025 • Saudi Arabia & Bahrain – June 20, 2025 (awarding in Saudi Arabia) • Qatar & Kuwait – August 8, 2025 (awarding in Qatar) • UAE & Oman – November 21, 2025 (awarding in UAE) Winners of the country-level round will then vie for the regional title at The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects 2026, which will be announced on March 29, 2026. The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Healthcare Professionals 2025 • Saudi Arabia & Bahrain – June 21, 2025 (awarding in Saudi Arabia) • Qatar & Kuwait – August 9, 2025 (awarding in Qatar) • UAE & Oman – November 22, 2025 (awarding in UAE) Winners of the country-level round will then compete in The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Healthcare Professionals 2026, to be announced on March 30, 2026. Celebrating Filipino excellence on a global scale Organized by New Perspective Media Group and powered by The Filipino Times, this initiative continues to elevate Filipino excellence worldwide and celebrate the achievements of Filipino professionals who have played pivotal roles in shaping industries across regions. 'This expansion of The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards is a testament to the growing influence and excellence of Filipinos not just in the Middle East but across the world. By recognizing achievements at a country level and expanding globally, we create greater opportunities for visibility, networking, and career advancement,' said Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of New Perspective Media Group and Publisher of The Filipino Times. Vince Ang, COO of New Perspective Media Group and GM of The Filipino Times, added: 'The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards continues to be a premier platform that uplifts and celebrates Filipino talent. With this new approach, more professionals will receive the recognition they deserve, fostering stronger connections within their respective industries and across the global Filipino community.' Since its inception in 2014, The Filipino Times Awards has evolved into The Filipino Times Watchlist Awards, highlighting the achievements of top Filipino engineers, architects, and healthcare professionals. In addition to the awards, The Filipino Times Watchlist Summit serves as the largest multidisciplinary gathering of overseas Filipino professionals, fostering collaboration, innovation, and leadership on an international scale.
Filipino Times
16-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Top Filipino engineers and architects in the Middle East 2025 revealed
126 Filipino engineers and architects were honored for their exceptional contributions in the Middle East The winners were trimmed down from 1,031 nominations from 5 countries and 6 disciplines The awards highlighted the significant role of Filipino professionals in sustainable infrastructure and urban development across five Middle East countries The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 celebrated the accomplishments of 126 exceptional Filipino professionals in a prestigious awards ceremony and summit held in Dubai, UAE. Organized by New Perspective Media Group (NPM), the event honors the outstanding contributions of Filipino engineers and architects in the region, highlighting their vital roles in shaping the region's infrastructure and development. Recipients of the TFT Watchlist Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Awards 2025 The awardees include architects, civil engineers, chemical engineers, electronics engineers, electrical engineers, and mechanical engineers from Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The event shines a light on the extraordinary influence Filipino professionals have in the region, particularly in driving sustainable urban development. H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, said: 'Platforms that recognize the achievements and significant contributions of Filipinos, such as The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Engineers and Architects in the Middle East, support and further encourage our kabayan to excel in whichever field they may be. Beyond honoring their work, these are also celebrations of their individual contributions in reinforcing the immense goodwill of our community in this region, their enduring legacies borne from sheer dedication and hard work of which we Filipinos are well-known for.' H.E. Raul S. Hernandez, Philippine Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, said: 'I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year's outstanding Filipino engineers and architects recognized at the Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Filipino Engineers and Architects in the Middle East Summit 2025. Their achievements reflect not only technical expertise but also the Filipino commitment to integrity, professionalism, resilience, and innovation. From groundbreaking designs to engineering feats that shape skylines and transform cities, their work is a source of pride for our nation, proving that Filipinos' talent and expertise shine on the global stage.' Here is the full list of awardees of The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 in order of their last name by discipline: TFT Watchlist honors the Architect awardees Architecture Bahala, Rhona Dicipulo, Antonio Gaela, Carmelita Gavino, Jeffrey Carlo Lago, Cherylliz Anne Pabalan, Fernando Pareja, Woderick Pigao, Bernadette Quiogue, Kriz Samed Reyes, Franz Felea Rigor, Paul Peter Son Rico Santos, Kenneth Mark TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees TFT Watchlist honors the Civil Engineer awardees Civil Engineering Abad, Charles Concordio Aldaya, Marichelle Animas, Jay Apduhan, Blesil Bañadera, Joey Bayot, Erwin Betita, Alfonso Belito Borreros, Kristoffer Arnie Buenconsejo, Glenn John Cabardo, Jonathan Castañeda, Jaime Jr. Castillon, Ronald Cayaga, Alden Cayog, John Carlo Chavez, Anngela Cocjin, Randy Piniera Dalupang, Leonides Dela Peña, Sheryl De Sesto, Michelle De Vera, Fredel Dela Cruz, Pablismer Delos Santos, Cedrich Joshua Yllana Diestro, Leonester Villar Dolozon, John Nielsen Famorcan, Joeper Francia, Michael Jeanios Galeon, Julie Galve Idos, Paquito Isla, Romaline Juntilla, Ace Labarda, Ahmer Leaño, Roland Legaste, Jay-ar Lopez, Asuncion Magnaye, Percival Malaluan, Vanessa Angela Malayao, Leonel Joseph Malubay, Raleigh Manglicmot, Gerry Mangubat, Williamson Manqueria, Vener Marcial, Nathalie Molbog, Joevince Navarro, Lorena Nicdao, Melvin Kieth Nuque, Sharon Oligo, Mario Ortiguerra, Meliza Pigao, Engersol Ramos, Raymund Ralph Rentutar, Rafael Jr. Ricohermoso, Juanito Sanchez, Marites Tampipi, Alberto Jr. Tan, Dana Lynn Tejedo, Jundee Mar Utram, Jojo Victorio, Vic Allen TFT Watchlist honors the Chemical Engineer awardees Chemical Engineering Deauna, Jowy Palma Dela Cruz, Jolivette Rapadas Lopez, Florencio Jr. Soriano, Patrick Luis Yamson, Rodolfo Jr. TFT Watchlist honors the Electronics Engineer awardees Electronics Engineering Agnes, Genesis Batoon, Heherson Capuno, Maricarl Gasangue, Mark Nhel Garcia, Garry Lao, Leo Vincent Lontoc, Rafael Maglaque-Arcega, Ma. Elisa Perez, Jeejay Al Valeros, Leif Marvin TFT Watchlist honors the Electrical Engineer awardees Electrical Engineering Cabalse, Manny Boy Casao, Elmer Castulo, Rodrigo Jr. Cupido, Leo Diaz, Aruel Genove, Elmer Guillermo, Alfie Hipolito, Marlon Laguerta, Venerando Lingcaso, Norberto Jr. Oyao, Jalan Nicolas Paloma, Victor Perez, Ken Anthony Pineda, Lesley Ariel Rances, Melanie Recto, Roanne Joy Saragpon- Guillermo, Rocil May Sayaman, Ian Waldy Tangcogo, Jose Vergosa, Enrie Andy Villa, Eryl TFT Watchlist honors the Mechanical Engineer awardees Mechanical Engineering Aguado, Leonardo Basario, Kristian Beltran, Arlan Calingasan, Clyde Bienson Calma, Sonny Defensor, Pasciano Delgado, Domingo Jr. Ingal, Juanito Jr. Malagapo, Eduardo Mamayog, Shayed Orticio, Felizardo Jr. Parubrub, Cipriano Perpetua, Jed Gregorio Pineda, Lloyd Christian Ramos, Reynald Regalado, Henry Reyes, Jaime III Rosete, Francis Louie Serben, Michael Valero, Jeffrey Zamora, Jayson Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of NPM Group, the publisher of The Filipino Times and organizer of TFT Watchlist, during her welcome remarks at the awards ceremony Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of New Perspective Media Group and Publisher of The Filipino Times, said: 'The Filipino Times is committed to empowering Filipinos worldwide, and this event is a testament to their invaluable contributions. The engineering and architecture sectors in the Middle East have greatly benefited from the talent, resilience, and expertise of Filipino professionals. We are proud to provide a platform that fosters peer-to-peer recognition and celebrates work excellence, leadership, professional success, resilience, and community service.' Hon. Consul General Marford M. Angeles, Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, said: ' Initiatives like The Filipino Times Watchlist are crucial in recognizing and amplifying the impact of overseas Filipinos who excel in their respective fields. By celebrating the achievements of our engineers and architects, we not only acknowledge their hard work but also encourage others to push the boundaries of their capabilities.' Atty. John Rio A. Bautista, Labor Attaché of the Migrant Workers Office – Dubai and the Northern Emirates, said: 'Through your efforts, you have raised the bar for what Filipinos can achieve globally, and we are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished. Your success not only uplifts the standing of Filipino professionals in the Middle East but also inspires others to follow in your footsteps. We also commend The Filipino Times for consistently championing Filipino professionals and providing a platform to celebrate their accomplishments.' Vince Ang, COO of New Perspective Media Group and GM of The Filipino Times, said: 'These professionals are true trailblazers, pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability in the Middle East. Their exceptional work continues to transform the region, and we are thrilled to recognize their achievements, which inspire others to follow in their footsteps.' TFT Watchlist judges receive well-deserved recognition Judges who helped determine the awardees included: Sheryl G. De La Peña; immediate Past Chapter President of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers-UAE and Sr. Quantity Surveyor and Contracts Administrator at Distance Studio Consultants Marlon B. Hipolito, 2025 Chapter President of the Integrated Institute of Electrical Engineers of the Philippines-UAE and Project Manager at Watermaster LLC Rafael Lontoc, Chairman of the Philippine Professional Organization-UAE, Adviser to the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines-UAE Chapter, and Regional Support Manager at Cyviz AS Florencio C. Lopez Jr., 2024 Chapter President of the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers-UAE and Senior Process Engineering Specialist/Chief Engineer at ADNOC Borouge Woderick M. Pareja, past Chapter President and Adviser to United Architects of the Philippines-Abu Dhabi and Project Management Consultant/Technical Advisor at Obermeyer Middle East GmBH Leif Marvin Valeros, Chapter President of the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines-UAE and Technical Support Engineer at Keri Systems Middle East FZCO The Filipino Times Watchlist: Top Engineers and Architects in the Middle East 2025 Awards and Summit is supported by RLC Residences, Kings Medical Center, and Elite Retreats Tourism as Support Sponsors, and is powered by The Filipino Times, the largest international Filipino news media and marketing agency globally.
Filipino Times
14-02-2025
- Business
- Filipino Times
Adapt with AI: Upskill, reskill in engineering and architecture
Many professionals worry that artificial intelligence (AI) is a looming threat, set to replace human jobs and reshape entire industries. But what if AI isn't the end of careers, but the beginning of new opportunities? With its rapid advancement, AI is not just automating tasks—it's creating a wave of innovation that could lead to millions of new jobs, transforming the way we work and redefining the future of employment, even in the fields of engineering and architecture. AI: A job killer or a career builder? The reality of the job market may surprise those who fear AI. Rather than eliminating careers, it has the potential to create even greater opportunities, especially for engineers and architects in the Middle East. According to the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025, the top 3 fastest growing skills by 2030 are AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy—all of which have something to do with AI. Moreover, these technological advancements will lead to the creation of 170 million new jobs by 2030, while displacing 92 million, resulting in a net increase of 78 million jobs. The WEF, therefore, encourages everyone to upskill and reskill if they want to get on top of these changes in the workforce. Many companies nowadays look for professionals who know how to use AI-powered tools, such as Autodesk and Rhino AI, which are commonly used in engineering and architecture. Moreover, AI and machine learning specialists are among the fastest-growing professions, driving a major shift in the job market. However, this rapid evolution also underscores the urgent need for upskilling and reskilling initiatives to equip professionals with the expertise required to stay competitive in an AI-driven landscape. Learn and adapt During the panel discussion, Dr. Karen Remo, Founder & CEO of the New Perspective Media Group and publisher of The Filipino Times, posed a critical question: How can engineers and architects in the Middle East upskill and reskill while integrating AI into their professions? Dr. Karen Remo, Founder & CEO of the New Perspective Media Group and publisher of The Filipino Times Engr. William Nabua, Senior Engineer, Reliability (I-C) of ADNOC Onshore, said 'AI going to change the way we live.' 'It's actually meant to augment human capabilities. It's going to replace manual tasks,' he added. Engr. William Nabua, Senior Engineer, Reliability (I-C) of ADNOC Onshore Engr. Nabua expressed his appreciation for ADNOC, highlighting the company's commitment to employee growth in the field of AI. 'ADNOC, our company, is very proactive. They're trying to give you the tools and training,' he said. Recognizing the challenges of continuous learning, Nabua emphasized the importance of upskilling. 'Upskilling is always challenging, even without AI. You have to constantly learn and adapt. You need to look at it in a positive way,' he said. He acknowledged that while change is never easy, it often leads to progress—and with AI playing a major role, adapting to these transformations is more crucial than ever. Learn AI: Take courses Meanwhile, Engr. Rafael Lontoc, Regional Support Manager and Project Manager of Cyviz AS, emphasized the connection between AI and data. 'When we talk about AI, we talk about data. With that, we need to do basic coding,' he said. Engr. Rafael Lontoc, Regional Support Manager and Project Manager of Cyviz AS He highlighted the importance of coding as a valuable skill in the evolving landscape of architecture and engineering. To stay competitive, Engr. Lontoc encouraged professionals to invest in continuous learning through certifications and training programs to enhance their expertise in AI-driven technologies. Don't sweat it However, Nader Torki, an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Strategy Consultant, shared a different perspective on AI learning. Nader Torki, an Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Strategy Consultant 'Don't worry about the certificates, things that are not related to your job,' Torki said, explaining that some AI courses designed for certifications may not even be relevant. He advised against spending months on AI courses that might not directly benefit one's role. 'You don't need to worry too much about the adoption of AI. It's overwhelming. You cannot catch up. How many tools are available? This is a lot,' he said, acknowledging the rapid evolution of AI technologies. Torki also challenged the common belief that learning to code is a necessity. 'You don't need to know how to code. You don't need to be a data scientist,' he said. 'You will adapt, but when needed.' Instead of overloading oneself with AI theories and courses, he offered a practical approach: Ask the AI how to prompt it, and it will tell you how to use it better. Conclusion At the conclusion of the panel discussion, Dr. Remo presented awards to the panelists for their valuable insights. The experts emphasized a key message: We must not fear AI's impact. Instead, they agreed that AI is a tool designed to enhance human potential, not replace it. As AI continues to reshape the fields of engineering and architecture, professionals must embrace its potential, commit to upskilling, and remain adaptable. The future belongs to those who learn, innovate, and evolve alongside technology.
