Tech

GS1 Standards Week 2024 will highlight the most recent developments in barcode technology and the global movement to switch from barcodes to QR codes

This year’s GS1 Standards Week 2024, which will take place from April 23 to 26, 2024 Philippine time, will feature a global discussion on the newest barcode technology and the push for the switch from the traditional linear barcode to the 2D QR code. GS1 Philippines, the leading organization on local barcode standards, is set to join industry experts and stakeholders in supply chain and digital transformation.

Over 5,000 member organizations from GS1 Philippines and several of GS1’s global partners will be present at this three-day virtual conference. A number of industries, including retail, marketplaces, consumer packaged goods, fresh foods, healthcare, and transport and logistics, will be covered in a series of educational seminars that will highlight the most recent advancements in barcode technology.

A key highlight at the GS1 Standards Week 2024 will be the opening plenary session focused on the global push for the adoption of the 2D barcode, most popularly known as the “QR code.” The next generation of barcodes will leverage web technologies and the current barcode system to store extensive product information in just one scan, promising limitless possibilities set to further improve operational efficiency in the supply chain industries and benefit brand owners, retailers, and consumers.

By 2027, GS1 Philippines aims to have prepared all sectors nationwide for a complete transition to 2D barcodes, anticipating that all global retail POS scanners will be equipped to read and process these advanced codes, supported by widespread adoption among brand owners.

“GS1 Standards Week 2024 marks a transformative milestone in our mission to drive the global supply chain industry forward. Amid rapid technological advancements, we are spearheading a new era of digital integration where enhanced barcode connectivity significantly boosts efficiency and sustainability worldwide. Join us as we chart the course for tomorrow’s industry standards, celebrating groundbreaking innovations that are reshaping how the world does business,” said Roberto “Bobby” Claudio, President of GS1 Philippines and the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA).

In addition, GS1’s Global Standards Management Process (GSMP) working group sessions will be held throughout the event. These sessions aim to bring together global thought leaders from diverse sectors. These talks will explore innovative, industry-wide standards, policies, and solutions, giving participants insightful knowledge.

Featuring a distinguished roster of GS1’s top specialists along with other prominent industry personalities, the occasion is expected to cultivate a cooperative atmosphere with the goal of transforming retail supply chains using globally acknowledged barcode technology.

GS1 Philippines currently has 5,000 member organizations, but by the end of 2024, it hopes to have 30,000 firms nationwide.

Visit the event’s official website to register and find out more about GS1 Standards Week 2024.

Lifestyle, News

AI’s Untapped Potential: Retail and CPGs Have Not Embraced Technology Enough to Drive Accurate Demand Forecasting, According to a New RELEX Study

First annual State of Supply Chain report uncovers valuable insights into the challenges, strategic investment areas and opportunities for retailers and CPGs over the next 3-5 years

While 57% of retailers and CPG companies plan to invest in predictive and generative AI in the next three to five years, AI and machine learning (ML) ranked just fifth in importance for overall technology spend, behind demand forecasting, improved inventory management, and leveraging data analytics, according to a new global study by RELEX Solutions, a leading provider of unified supply chain and retail planning solutions. This implies that businesses might be undervaluing AI’s ability to address the volatility of consumer demand.

For retailers and CPGs, the RELEX State of Supply Chain 2024: Retail and CPG Dynamics report provides insightful information about the opportunities, key investment areas, and difficulties that they will face over the next three to five years. Global events and disruptions (50%), rapidly changing consumer demand volatility (55%), and an imprecise perception of customer-specific demand (43%), according to respondents, are the main obstacles to enhancing supply chain accuracy and efficiency during the next three years. Remarkably, 94% of participants stated that they have been affected by social media “de-influencing” or “influencing” in the recent 12 to 24 months. This indicates that identifying and foreseeing demand spikes in all channels will be particularly important for success.

Retailers Reshaping Networks for Omnichannel Demand

Retailers are rearchitecting supply chains to navigate evolving consumer expectations, channel shifts, disruptions and uncertainty. Key findings include:

  • The top three most essential capabilities for retailers to manage consumer demand and inventory levels are real-time inventory visibility (45%), customer demand sensing (45%), and inventory optimization tools (43%)
  • Another 59% of respondents are expanding omni-channel options from some locations to accommodate shifting consumer delivery preferences, tackling the need to evolve to changing consumer preferences
  • More than half (53%) are expanding supplier base / sourcing options to add sourcing redundancy to diversify and mitigate risks associated with disruptions

CPGs: Balancing Investments with Tighter Retail Collaboration

Integrated supply chain planning capabilities are critical for CPGs to balance volatility and retail collaboration while expanding consumer touchpoints. However, change is difficult given complex legacy constraints and trade-offs required across disconnected organizations. Key findings include:

  • 79% of CPGs report day-level planning is crucial for accurately forecasting and responding to consumer demands
  • 32% say disconnected planning across different teams, systems, and regions, and 27% reporting slow and misaligned planning cycles and levels are impacting the synchronization of end-to-end value chain planning and execution
  • Supply variability, including materials shortages and production disruptions, impact 82% of CPGs’ ability to meet order expectations
  • To navigate macro-economic factors like inflation, CPGs are focused on adjusting inventory and production strategies via monitoring demand signals (48%), building in safety stock or keeping higher inventory levels (22%), and inventory turnover as part of their inventory and production strategies  

“The retail and CPG industries continue to face complex, global challenges that require actionable insights to accurately predict, anticipate, and manage consumer demand,” said Laurence Brenig-Jones, VP of Strategy & Marketing, RELEX Solutions. “To thrive in this new reality, companies must fundamentally transform their approach to supply chain management by breaking down silos, embracing new technologies like AI and ML, and fostering a culture of collaboration and agility. The winners will be those that can achieve resilience and flexibility, to sense and respond to disruptions and opportunities in real-time, and continuously adapt their strategies in the face of change. With the right mindset, tools, and partners, retailers and CPGs can build the supply chains of the future and unlock new levels of growth and profitability.”

The RELEX State of Supply Chain 2024: Retail and CPG Dynamics report can be viewed in its entirety here

Learn more at: https://www.relexsolutions.com/customers/

Automotive, Sports

Asian Toyota Global Team Athletes Are About to Aim toward Higher Altitudes in Paris 2024

Toyota welcomes two new athletes to its Toyota Asia Team
in the race to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024

  • Toyota stands committed in its support for 11 Asian athletes on their journey towards taking center stage, at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.
  • In global partnership with the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee, Toyota launched “Start Your Impossible,” its first-ever corporate initiative to bring about social change through hero projects with their ‘Dual Heroes.’

With the beginning of the “Start Your Impossible” (SYI) global marketing campaign today, Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is generating excitement for the future Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, 2024. The global ad highlights Toyota’s conviction that no journey is taken alone and demonstrates the strength of local communities supporting their athletes around the globe.

In Asia, Toyota launched “START YOUR IMPOSSIBLE,” the company’s first-ever worldwide corporate campaign, in collaboration with 11 athletes from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. These sportsmen are scheduled to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. These 11 outstanding athletes are moving closer to their goals of becoming professional athletes. They will compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, 2024, alongside over 200 other Global Team Toyota Athletes (GTTA) from around the world.

The full line-up of 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes include:

  • India: Murali Sreeshankar, Athletics
  • Indonesia: Ni Nengah Widiasih, Para Powerlifting
  • Malaysia: Abdul Latif Romly, Long Jump – Para Athletics
  • Nepal: Nabita Shresta – Table Tennis
  • Pakistan: Arshad Nadeem – Athletics
  • Philippines: Carlos Yulo, Artistic Gymnastics
  • Philippines: Ernie Gawilan, Para Swimming
  • Singapore: Toh Wei Soong, Para Swimming
  • Thailand: Kunvalut Vitidsarn, Badminton
  • Thailand: Pongsakorn Paeyo, Wheelchair Racing – Para Athletics
  • Vietnam: Lê Văn Công, Para Powerlifting

Currently, 8 out of the 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes have qualified for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, with other qualifications still ongoing.

“On behalf of Toyota Motor Asia, we are thrilled that top athletes across Asia will be representing their countries and are heading to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. Each Global Team Toyota athlete in Asia is not only a trailblazer but also a ‘Dual Hero’, where they champion social causes through Hero Projects that foster a positive change in their community. We take pride in the unrelenting dedication they have displayed in their respective disciplines, and wish them the best on the international stage,” says Preston Tan, Vice President, Toyota Motor Asia Singapore.

The “Start Your Impossible” campaign highlights Toyota’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive, sustainable, and mobile society as we transition to a mobility corporation by encouraging each person to take on new challenges and realize their “impossible.”

As an official worldwide partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Toyota is dedicated to offering eco-friendly mobility options that support the development of an inclusive and low-carbon society. Toyota has said that it will deliver 500 fuel cell Mirai cars as part of its official fleet for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This demonstrates the company’s objectives to become carbon neutral and its support for a multimodal strategy for sustainable travel.

Entertainment

With the release of her new single “Forget About Us,” Perrie of Little Mix goes solo

Global music phenomenon Perrie finally releases Forget About Us.”, her eagerly anticipated solo debut single.

“Forget About Us” is an upbeat pop song with a melancholy quality that Perrie co-wrote with Ed Sheeran, Steve Solomon, and renowned songwriter David Hodges (“Because of You”—Kelly Clarkson, “A Thousand Years”—Christina Perri).

The ecstatic song serves as Perrie’s solo debut, showcasing her incredible vocal ability. She sings, remembering past romances, “I don’t want you to ever forget about us in the front seat / listening to songs that made you think about me.”

Perrie says: “I look back on past relationships and do think happily about those times. Do I want to be there now? No. It didn’t work out that way and if it was supposed to be it would have happened. Relationships have been a huge part of my life and they’ve made me who I am now. I think it’s a nice sentiment to be honest about and it’s super relatable.”

Listen here: https://perrie.lnk.to/ForgetAboutUs 

The beautiful video for the song, coming soon, was directed by Jake Nava (Beyonce, Britney Spears) and shot recently in Cape Town.

The world might know her as the self-assured Perrie from Little Mix, a group that boasts 3 Brit Awards over 17.49 million albums sales globally & 29.6 billion worldwide streams. However, her experience in one of the best-selling girl groups of all time was also transformative for a younger girl who was naturally shy and unsure of her immense talents. Previously, Perrie shied away from songwriting in Little Mix as she didn’t have the confidence in her abilities, but through working on her upcoming debut album, her extensive songwriting contributions surprised even her. 

Across the eclectic and diverse record she had a heavy hand in creating, there are nods to her rock n roll-influenced childhood, motown, disco, country, 80s and, of course, bright, bold pop. The unifying thread is Perrie’s strong, soaring vocals that fearlessly grapple with each melody and top note. “Going into sessions as a solo artist now and being able to say what I want and I feel is just the most amazing experience. I never had the confidence to do that before, but this process has allowed me to believe in myself and explore all my different emotions and different parts of my life.

Perrie felt most comfortable writing and recording the majority of the deeply intimate album at her North London home. Alex, her fiancé, suggested that they convert their unutilized dining room into a home studio. He had constructed a studio for her that would include everything she would require to record music. “Everything I’ve done to document the record has also been done at home—fans have been asking me if she ever leaves the house.Perrie chuckles. In addition to staying ensconced in her haven, she experimented with collaborating with producers and co-writers, a select group that featured musicians Ed Sheeran and Raye, Johnny McDaid, Feli Ferraro (BTS, Normani), and Jon Bellion (Maroon 5, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber), among others. This allowed her to be as open and imaginative as possible for her debut release.

“I’m so proud of what I’ve done and created. I wanted it to be fun above anything else and showcase my singing through ballads and big vocal numbers,” she says, with her sights now set on taking her music out in front of the world and performing live with a band. “Having people singing your songs back to you is the best natural high in the world. I’m just so excited to see how fans react to my music now.”  Whether sensitive or powerhouse – Perrie’s distinctive vocals stand proud as she emotes her way through songs that tell her story so far.

FOLLOW Perrie HERE

INSTAGRAM | TIK TOK | YOUTUBE 

Perrie’s “Forget About Us” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Automotive

Combine flair and power in the new Toyota Corolla Cross

Toyota Motor Philippines introduces popular crossover’s all-HEV lineup


*Variant shown is the V HEV

The updated Toyota Corolla Cross, the country’s best-selling hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) model to date, has been formally introduced by Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP).

The new 2024 Corolla Cross, which debuted in 2020 with standard Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models, is the company’s first hybrid electric crossover. It is currently available in an all-HEV lineup.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto stressed the importance of the Corolla Cross in Toyota’s mission to empower customers to seek sustainable mobility solutions during the launch ceremony, which was place at SM Aura in Taguig City.

“The Corolla Cross, the first strong hybrid crossover in the Philippines, has been a key to accelerating electrification in the Philippines. TMP pioneered hybrid in 2009, but it’s upon the Corolla Cross launch in 2020 when we started achieving 3-digit annual sales figures of xEVs. Last year, TMP reached 7,203 Lexus and Toyota xEV sales.”

“As of end of February 2024, there are already more than 4,000 electrified Corolla Cross on the road, part of the more than 13,000-strong customers who chose electrified Toyota and Lexus models since we started the electrified movement,” he added.

At a starting price of PHP 1,498,000 for the G HEV variant, the new Corolla Cross further expands TMP’s range of affordable and reliable electrified vehicles, signifying its strong commitment towards making the electrified lifestyle a mainstream choice for Filipinos.

ELECTRIFYING STYLE & FUNCTION

The V HEV and G HEV variants of the new Corolla Cross now sport a mesh-like grille with hexagonal outlines, while the GR-S HEV variant retains the stylish front façade of the previous Corolla Cross GR-S HEV.

For the headlamps – the V HEV and GR-S HEV variants now have LED lamps with automatic high beam (AHB) and sequential turn signal, while the G HEV variant has upgraded from halogen lamps to LED lamps.

Along with the GR-S HEV variant, the V HEV variant now also has a power back door with kick sensor. The top-of-the-line GR-S HEV variant comes with a panoramic view monitor camera and a panoramic moonroof for that added premium feel.

On the inside, all variants now have LED interior lamps and a leather steering wheel. The foot brake has also now been replaced with an electronic parking brake (EPB).

The new Corolla Cross is also packed with convenience features, such as a 12.3-inch fully digital multi-information display (MID) for the GR-S HEV. The V HEV, meanwhile, has a 7-inch thin-film-transistor (TFT) MID, while the G HEV has a 4.2-inch TFT MID.

All three variants have a 10-inch display audio with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charger for convenient smartphone charging on the go.

 POWER & SAFETY IN ONE PACKAGE

The GR-S and V variants are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Automatic High Beam (AHB), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. All variants have active safety features such as Emergency Brake Signal (EBS), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

The new Corolla Cross is powered by a hybrid 4-cylinder, in-line, 16-valve DOHC, chain drive with VVT-i engine with CVT transmission. This hybrid engine combines the power of a conventional engine with the fuel efficiency of an electric motor for an eco-friendlier drive, giving customers the power to start their journey toward a carbon-neutral future.

With its stunning exterior, rich convenience features, and excellent fuel efficiency, the new Corolla Cross provides an attractive package for individuals looking to power their everyday drives with style.

The new Corolla Cross is available in three variants – the GR-S HEV, which starts at PHP 1,917,000; the V HEV, which starts at PHP 1,763,000; and the G HEV, which starts at PHP 1,498,000. Available colors are as follows:

Customers can check out the new Toyota Corolla Cross at SM Aura in Taguig City until Sunday, April 14, where it will also be available for test drive. The new Corolla Cross is also available for viewing and reservation at any Toyota dealership nationwide.

KEEPING THE COROLLA LEGACY

Hashimoto added the improvement in the Corolla Cross is also part of the drive to continue nurturing the Corolla brand.

“The Corolla is the best-selling Toyota nameplate in the world. Since the introduction of the brand in 1966, roughly 50 million units have been sold in 150 countries – and that includes the Philippines.”

“The Corolla’s story continues today, and with its role in carbon neutrality, we are working on having the Corolla enjoyed by generations to come,” he added.

Along with the Corolla Cross, TMP also sells the Corolla Altis sedan, which debuted as the company’s first mainstream vehicle with a HEV version in 2019.

Other HEV models offered by TMP are the Yaris Cross, RAV4, Camry, and Alphard. Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram,  ToyotaMotorPH on X, and become a member of the Toyota PH community on Viber for further information about Toyota goods, services, events, and more.

Entertainment

On May 11, 2024, Crwn will commemorate their much awaited debut album, Séance, with a full concert

Featuring a total of 11 collaborators, crwn’s first full-length album delivers a selection of sounds that span genres and movements across the globe


Photographed by Renzo Navarro

On May 11, 2024, acclaimed producer King Puentespina, also known as Crwn (stylized as crwn), will launch his eagerly anticipated debut album, Séance. This intimate event will not only mark the culmination of his years of musical exploration, but also provide fans with their first chance to experience the album’s dynamism live with all of its collaborators. This announcement comes after 11 long years as an artist forming creative partnerships.

With an amazing lineup of 11 well-known and new collaborators, the dance music-focused album highlights the strong relationships that Crown has built over his career.

“I was conceptualizing Séance and working on a lot of songs for around 5 years after releasing Orchid in 2018,” the prolific electronic musician shares. “It was a lot of thinking, absorbing art, researching and drafting concepts and tracks into existence. The backbone and foundation of the project took time, but the actual making of the music went smoother and a lot quicker than I expected. It was like finding the ingredients took forever, but summoning the art into the world was easy.”

Puentespina adds, “The creative process with my collaborators was smooth and natural. I’d like to say we were all building worlds and stories at a comfortable pace. Everyone got to share what they wanted to share quickly and without any hiccups.”


Photographed by Renzo Navarro

This debut album has been years in the making, and while honing his craft, he has also played in prestigious international festivals like Wonderfruit (Thailand), Malasimbo, and Wanderland, headlined the renowned KARPOS LIVE Concert Series, and captivated audiences in big cities such as Tokyo, Singapore, and New York.

On April 26th, the lead song will be released, giving fans a preview of the album’s vitality. A dynamic sound that sets the tone for the album is promised by the song, which is a cooperation with the first of eleven brilliant performers.

In the upcoming weeks, information about the event’s venue and other featured performers will be revealed. Those who can’t wait to celebrate can get their tickets for The Gathering at bit.ly/seancebycrwn on May 11, 2024.

Lifestyle, News

A Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital Charity Dinner at the Brittany Hotel


Lorna Ochoa Bayani – Nurse Supervisor at Fabella, Mitch Arce, and Pinky Fabro

Michelle Garcia-Arce, a marketing and public relations expert, recently organized a birthday charity dinner at Origine Restaurant, Brittany Hotel BGC, to support Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, which is regarded as the most significant maternity healthcare center in the Philippines.

The event, which was planned by Storytellers Management Inc., had a delectable Spanish meal that Chef Alexandra Cacho of Origine Restaurant had handpicked. A buffet of pintos, paella, and other gastronomic treats were served to the guests, who were then treated to desserts from Arce Dairy Ice Cream.


Consul Fortune Aleta Ledesma, generously donated diapers to Fabella Hospital

With one of the highest birth rates in the nation, Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital serves the greater Manila area and sees 150 newborns on average every day. Two single beds are pushed together to accommodate four to five women and their newborns due to lack of resources.

At the charity dinner, 13,500 diapers were raised, and on March 8, they were given to the hospital.

“We are immensely thankful to Mitch and all the donors for their generous contribution. This donation will make a significant difference in the lives of the infants and families we serve at Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital,” says Dr. Antoinette Pacapac, chair for external affairs committee at Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital.


Ariel and Mitch Arce, Alma Arvisu, Doreen Odvina, and Jj Arvisu

“Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital has a special place in my heart as a mother of two incredible children. I salute everyone at the hospital who are working tirelessly to help mothers and their families,” says Mitch, president of Storytellers Management Inc. and Salmo Trading and Distribution Corporation.

Beauty, Lifestyle

Isispharma, a French skincare company, made its Philippine debut


Nikki Tang with Amelie Clement, Dr. Evangeline Handog, Dr. Marie Socouer Oblepias, Dr. Johannes Dayrit, May Chow, and Victoria Zon during the presentation of certificates

The French skincare brand Isispharma Dermatologie was recently introduced to the Philippine market by leading skincare distributor DMark Beauty, offering three revolutionary product lines that are clinically proven to maintain and restore the skin’s natural balance.

Leading global authority on beauty, DMark Beauty, sources superior dermatological products and techniques from leading global skincare brands. Established in 1998, the company offers exceptional beauty solutions. DMark is the industry leader in the distribution of minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatments and effective anti-aging skincare products in the Philippines, having earned the trust of medical experts nationwide.


Amelie Clement, Medical Communication Manager at Isispharma Dermatologie, talks about the solutions for pigmentary disorders

Isispharma is a world leader in the treatment of skin conditions, ranging from common concerns like acne to hyperpigmentation, rosacea, and vitiligo. In 80 countries, more than 14,000 dermatologists suggest its products.

Acquired in 2002 by the DEWAVRIN Group, Isispharma traces its roots to Christian Diehl, a pharmacist based in Bourg-en-Bresse, France, who founded Isispharma Laboratory in 1987 to focus on the natural balance – homeostasis – and the imbalances of the skin to create solutions that help regain healthy skin.

Isispharma was unveiled in Manila at the Shangri-La at The Fort with more than 250 dermatologists and medical experts in attendance. Top notch doctors Dr Evangeline Handog, Dr. Marie Socouer Oblepias, and Dr.  Johannes Dayrit were present to discuss solutions for pigmentary disorders, acne, rosacea, and more. Throughout the evening, the guests witnessed transformative experiences from experts, and, of course, enjoyed the delightful fusion of skin care, beauty, and good food.

Isispharma, with its range Teenderm, Ruboril, and Neotone, promises not just products but a transformation in how people should care for the skin.


Neotone, a range of complete skincare products designed to cleanse skin, and correct and prevent the appearance of dark spots

Neotone is one of Isispharma’s most popular products. Neotone is a range of complete skincare products designed to cleanse your skin and correct and prevent the appearance of dark spots. It uses the innovative patented complex DEPI-ACT, an essential ingredient in the entire range that addresses each stage of melanin production.

Teen Derm is designed for oily skin, it regulates excess sebum with avocado oil esters, then purifies and exfoliates the skin’s surface. Boswellia extract, with its anti-inflammatory properties, soothes damaged skin so patients can enjoy intensely hydrated skin. Teen Derm carries the patented ALPHA-PURE complex, with clinically proven efficacy after 28 days, containing active ingredients to address all stages of the development of imperfections.


Ruboril, as a skincare line, goes beyond addressing redness; it offers a comprehensive routine designed to cater to sensitive skin’s unique needs. From gentle cleansers and nourishing moisturizers to effective sun protection, Ruboril is dedicated to soothing the discomfort associated with redness and restoring the skin’s natural balance.

Ruboril: A solution for redness, Ruboril products contain the patented β-CALM complex, which helps strengthen the walls of capillaries, reinforce the skin’s barrier, hydrate, and soothe your skin. The Ruboril range has been meticulously formulated to provide a solution for each type of redness and each level of severity.


 Victoria Zon, Director of International Marketing Communications at Isispharma Dermatologie, introduces Isispharma to the guests

Victoria Zon, Director of Marketing Communications at Isispharma Dermatologie says: “For over 30 years, we have been studying the skin’s natural mechanisms and imbalances to preserve and restore its homeostasis thanks to effective solutions that respect your skin. We are very pleased in our partnership with Nikki Tang and DMark Beauty which makes our wide range of patented technology and skincare solutions accessible to Filipinos.”


A visionary leader, the driving force behind DMARK Beauty, the esteemed CEO, and Beautyprenuer, Nikki Tang

“We are delighted to bring Isispharma to the Philippines as part of our brands’ joint commitment to accessible, collaborative, transparent, and effective skincare solutions for everyone,” says Nikki Tang, CEO of DMark Beauty. We are eager to expand Isispharma’s product line in the future. Their Neotone, Teen Derm, and Ruboril products will prove to be groundbreaking for skincare health in the Philippines.


Teenderm products, for oily skin with imperfections and for treating acne-prone skin— whether in mild, moderate, or severe cases

In the Philippines, DMark Beauty is the only distributor of Isispharma. For further information, speak with your doctor. Approved dermatological clinics carry Neotone, Teen Derm, and Ruboril.

Go to dmarkbeauty.com to learn more about Isispharma and DMark Beauty. On Facebook, go to https://www.facebook.com/dmarkbeauty/ and follow @dmarkbeauty on Instagram.

Food, Lifestyle

The “Lumpia Queen” of the Internet, Abi Marquez 28th Annual Webby Awards nomination


Abi Marquez is known all over social media as “Lumpia Queen” https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WBpOTcvWjXSul8O5-SSypawdrxt1qNxW/view?usp=drive_link 
  • Abi Marquez, known as the “Lumpia Queen,” has been nominated for the 28th Annual Webby Awards in the Social – Food and Drink category, marking a significant achievement for Filipino culinary representation on the global stage.
  • Urging public support, the nomination celebrates Abi’s impactful culinary content and Filipino cuisine’s global spotlight

Abi alongside other Food & Drink nominees
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DHuYDjE5IAV26BZ0XysPTcL6hTMzFTQ8?usp=sharing 

Abi Marquez, known online as the “Lumpia Queen,” has received an official nomination for the esteemed 28th Annual Webby Awards in the Social – Food and Drink category, an exciting tribute to the Philippines’ thriving food sector.

She is in the top 12% of entries with this nomination, which is one of five in its category and was chosen by hand from 13,000 projects submitted worldwide. She also joins the ranks of illustrious individuals and organizations like Jennifer Garner and America’s Test Kitchen. It also represents Marquez’s significant contribution to the online food community.

At just 23 years old, Marquez has captured the hearts and palates of millions worldwide with her delectable and innovative culinary creations, predominantly featuring the beloved Filipino dish, lumpia. Her engaging content and authentic portrayal of Filipino cuisine have amassed a following of 3.3 million on TikTok, with her videos receiving over 1 billion views and 86 million likes. Marquez’s rapid rise to social media stardom culminated in winning the TikTok Foodie Creator of the Year award in 2023, further cementing her status as a culinary influencer. Before becoming Lumpia Queen, Marquez was once upon a time a Hotel Restaurant and Institution Management (HRIM) student who utilized content creation as her practicum. She has been a talent of NYMA, the artist management arm of Kroma Entertainment, since 2023.

This nomination is not just a personal milestone for Marquez but also a moment of immense pride for the Philippines. It highlights the richness of Filipino culinary traditions and the boundless talent within the country, showcasing it on a global stage.

How to support Abi Marquez at the Webby Awards

Marquez is eligible to win at the Webby Awards two ways: by winning the award as chosen by the judging academy (the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences) and by being voted on by the public at The Webby People’s Voice Award. Both awards are a mark of international distinction for Internet excellence.

We cordially welcome everyone to participate in this historic occasion by casting their Webby People’s Voice Awards ballot for Abi Marquez. Your vote has the power to raise awareness of Filipino food and win this esteemed prize.

Please register at https://vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2024/social/general-social/food-drinkin order to cast your vote for Abi. Voting ends on Thursday, April 18 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time.


Choose Abi by signing up for an account and clicking Confirm Vote
Image:
Confirm Vote for Abi.png
 

Come together to commemorate and advance our gastronomic legacy globally. Your support can help us showcase the Philippines as a creative and talented culinary powerhouse.

For more information and to follow Abi’s journey, please visit:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abigailfmarquez

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigailfmarquez/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abigailfmarquez

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lumpiaqueen

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lumpiakween

To learn more about KROMA and NYMA, visit https://www.kroma.ph/nyma.

Automotive

CONFIRMED: On April 12, Toyota Philippines will unveil the new Corolla Cross

On Friday, April 12, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) will introduce the revised lineup of the Toyota Corolla Cross, the company’s best-selling hybrid electric vehicle (HEV).

The Corolla Cross, which debuted as the first hybrid electric crossover in 2020, has grown to be a beloved vehicle among enthusiasts thanks to its fashionable look, roomy interior, potent performance, and economical fuel consumption for a mainstream hybrid. The all-hybrid lineup for the new Toyota Corolla Cross models will be shown.

This coming weekend, the premier mobility firm is inviting the public to its public launch, which will begin with a live unveiling at SM Aura in Taguig City this coming Saturday at 11 AM. At 11 AM, the show will also be broadcast live on the Toyota Motor Philippines Facebook page.

Up until Sunday, April 14, the new Corolla Cross can be seen at the SM Aura show. Customers from all throughout the nation can also check out the new Corolla Cross at any Toyota store. On April 12, reservations and in-store purchases will begin.

Join the Toyota PH community on Viber and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, as well as ToyotaMotorPH on X, for additional information on Toyota events, services, and products.