Monthly Archives

November 2022

Food, Lifestyle

2023 Calendar Girl of Ginebra San Miguel is officially launched

Yassi Pressman

Yassi Pressman, a Filipino-British actress known as the Queen of the Dance Floor, was unveiled by Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI) as its 2023 Calendar Girl at an event that was attended by brand ambassadors, GSMI dealers, and friends from the media. I am also invited to the joyous event as it is so perfectly nailed by Yassi Pressman as she shows her talent during the launching. She even presented her skills in mixing drinks and I’m so amazed on how versatile she is. Truly she deserved the spotlight for Ginebra San Miguel 2023 Calendar Girl.

When Yassi received the call telling her that she had been selected as the GSMI family’s newest member, she was shocked and honored. Being a part of such a fantastic legacy will mark a significant turning point in Yassi’s life. “It means a lot to me that they chose me to be a part of the brand,” she continued. “It’s really something special to be part of a company that serves world-class quality products.”

It was the first time again, after two years, that the event was held face-to-face. “We are excited to finally hold our Ginebra San Miguel 2023 Calendar Girl launch live again! For us, this launch also signals the atmosphere for next year. The pandemic has affected many Filipinos, but now is the time to recover—armed with Bagong Tapang, to dream and hope again, and to spread that positivity to others,” says Marketing Manager Ron Molina.

With the theme “Queen of the Barangay,” the calendar features Yassi as a modern Filipina that is able to adjust to the new normal with positivity and productivity through her “matapang,” “ganado,” and “never-say-die” attitude.

YASSI AS “QUEEN OF THE BARANGAY”

Yassi show the different cocktail mixes during the event

Yassi prepared herself physically and mentally to be the best representation of what an  ideal Ginebra calendar girl should be. She admits that prior to her selection, she was always trying to keep herself fit. “Of course, there were times that I also had to give in to my cravings, but at the end of the day, I knew my priority was to be stronger, healthier, and happier.”

Preparing for the calendar shoot, Yassi pushed herself to do weight training, boxing, and having a healthy diet. “My fitness journey helped me become a better version of myself.” As for her mental preparation, she just kept in mind Ginebra’s taglines like “Ganado sa Buhay,” and “Never-Say-Die.”

With Yassi’s positivity and optimism in life, her personality shined through the six layouts of the Ginebra San Miguel 2023 calendar. The photo shoot was also done on location after two years, reflecting the relaxed and open atmosphere we anticipate in the coming year.

The six layouts are inspired by different cocktail mixes. The first one is “Ginsu Mix” set in an auto repair shop, reminding the importance of hard work and passion in everything we do. The second layout is “Calamansi Surprise,” showing Yassi amidst greenery and nature.

“Kula-Orange Fizz” is the third layout, featuring a background filled with dried pampas grass with wooden trays where one can display spirits and mix cocktails. According to Yassi, she could relate to this design as she had her dream home renovated recently, which now features a lot of touches of brown wood furniture and neutral shades. “I also have a mini bar in my living room–an open space to bond with my family and friends.”

The fourth layout is the “Velocity Mix,” something that seems like it’s from a blockbuster summer movie complete with a ref full of Ginebra products. While “Sky Prisma” is the fifth layout, also in a beach setting, but this time with a picturesque sunset in the background. Last is the “Mango Daiquiri,” where Yassi is magnified by a bonfire by the beach, the best place to experience Ginebra’s creative cocktails and concoctions. Just don’t forget your coolers and ice boxes for that perfect night!

Personally, it was hard for Yassi to choose a favorite among the six calendar layouts, but she has a bias toward the “Velocity Mix.” “It’s because I always enjoy beach time with family and friends–a ‘ginstronomic’ trip with our favorite food and gin. The drink also has candies and gummies–the perfect combo for me, as it is sweetness with a kick!”

YASSI ON BEING A MODERN FILIPINA

Yassi with the GSM Officers

During the pandemic, the actress and entrepreneur has gained new discoveries about herself–a new purpose, pride, and passion that resonates not only with her family but the whole barangay.

As an empowered Filipina woman, Yassi owns multiple businesses, knows how to tend to her organic garden, fixes things at home, and concocts rejuvenating drinks for herself and her family—all while fulfilling her commitments in the entertainment industry.

With her self-discovery, Yassi also realized to be kinder to herself and has become the “matapang” woman she is by refusing to let difficult circumstances pull her down. “When I was younger, my father always advised me to keep trying because, as he said—if you try and try and you succeed, you’re going to be happy, but if you try and try and you fail, I’ll be there to catch you,” says Yassi. Her family, the source of her “tapang,” made her fearless in the face of whatever trials or tribulations she may face.

Despite her personal struggles, Yassi continues to hone the talents that she already has and allows her inner beauty to radiate, too, in order to inspire others. According to her, she shows her most natural self online and sometimes even reveals some not-so-glamorous side of a celebrity because she believes that it would be healthy for people, especially the youth, to see that genuine side of her.

“I am open to everybody [on social media] about my battles and journey toward being healthier and stronger,” says the 2023 Ginebra calendar girl. “Whenever I get messages from little girls or any netizen saying that I inspire them to dance, act, and to keep moving forward, it gives me the ‘ganado’ feeling and hope and aspiration to empower more women!”

If there are things that the pandemic or the recent months have made women realize, it’s that they can accomplish things that are not expected from them and deliver more than the ordinary. “I think Ginebra San Miguel chose me because I embody courage, passion, and its never-say-die spirit. Growing up in showbusiness, you’d experience a lot of rejections and comments from people, and while we know we should just brush them off—especially the non-constructive criticisms—they sometimes get to you,” adds Yassi.

But amid all these rejections and disappointments in the past, Yassi just soldiered on, keeping a “never say die” attitude. Eventually, she became unstoppable, brimming with positivity and personality, allowing her to rise above the crowd.

As “Queen of the Barangay,” Yassi and her friends know how to have a good time—with good music and drinks, as seen on her social media posts. “We love theme parties; the last one we did was about sunflowers. We also did disco and Coachella.”

The new brand ambassador also shared that her favorite gin drink is the GSM Blue Mojito because of its light taste and her friends can easily enjoy the drink by just simply putting ice or adding any fruits like pineapple for a fruity flavor.

As GSM’s newest brand ambassador, Yassi hopes to spread positivity and continue to inspire and empower women and the youth—sharing the “ganado” spirit with her 28 million followers on social media.

THE GINEBRA CALENDAR TRADITION

The Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl is a long-held tradition in GSMI and an important part of the brand’s history. Since its inception in 1988, beauty queens, actresses, and models who have made their mark in their respective fields have graced the Ginebra San Miguel calendar. Among them were Marian Rivera (2009 and 2014), Anne Curtis (2011), Solenn Heusaff (2012), Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach (2019), Sanya Lopez (2020), and Chie Filomeno (2022).

According to the top international beverage publication Drinks International, GSMI is the manufacturer of Ginebra San Miguel, the most popular gin in the world in terms of sales. GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Aejo Gold Rum, Primera Light Brandy, and Vino Kulafu, the top Chinese wine in the Philippines, are just a few of the premium distilled spirits produced by GSMI.

With Yassi Pressman

Visit www.ginebrasanmiguel.com or www.facebook.com/BarangayGinebra, the official Ginebra San Miguel Facebook page, for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 9, 2022 by
Lifestyle

Call to ‘environmental concerned’ consumers: Use Home Credit to advance sustainable living

When moving around the metro, you have three options for getting where you need to go: you may drive there and pay expensive gas rates, use a ride-sharing app that is also somewhat expensive, or try your luck with public transportation and experience hassles. You might have been at a crossroads and decided to remain home instead because of long lines for buses, jeeps, or trains. That has been the case for many people, especially once lives began to open up again following the protracted lockdowns.

However, a lot more Filipinos have started using bicycles for transportation recently. The sight of individuals cycling around large cities has become commonplace. Despite the nation’s inclement weather, more and more people are observed cycling alone or even in groups. They use their bikes for both fun and practical reasons, such as getting to and from work, remaining physically active, and doing errands.

Furthermore, bicycles are now turning into more ideal modes of transportation as they can easily squeeze their way into the frantic metro traffic and even squeeze through alleys and shortcuts that would otherwise not be accessible by cars.

But more than these reasons, many have turned to biking not only to stay away from the hassle of road transport but to lessen their carbon footprint. The conversations on how global warming is severely affecting the environment worldwide, primarily due to the excessive consumption of fossil fuels for transportation, have pushed more environmentally conscious people to look for sustainable alternatives to replace fossil fuels.

Now, more than ever, people from different walks of life are becoming more knowledgeable about their purchasing decisions. They opt for brands that have sustainability and green practices at their core – showing their concern for the planet’s well-being. Informed consumers actively seek out eco-friendly alternatives in replacement of their everyday essentials to promote lasting positive change for the environment.

Make your sustainable choice with Home Credit

If you’re one of the “green-minded” Filipino consumers who had been wanting to go bike commuting or simply wanted to channel your inner Freddie Mercury and ride your own bicycle around the metro — you may want to take a look at Home Credit’s financial products to finally take home the wheels you’ve been eyeing. Having a sustainable and eco-friendly vehicle provides a long list of benefits for the environment including reduced noise and air pollution and cooler and more conducive living spaces.

As the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, the country’s leading buy now, pay later (BNPL) provider Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), supports eco-conscious consumers in their commitment to the environment and offers a wide array of electric bikes and scooters available through hundreds of its partner merchants. All items can be purchased through flexible payment terms and low-interest rates, plus no credit card required — making that green choice much more accessible and affordable.

Ride safe!

Visit the Home Credit Philippines website at www.homecredit.ph to find out more about the most recent news. You may also follow the company’s official profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Customers are urged to download the Home Credit App from Google Play in order to learn more about the newest promotions and discover what has recently appeared in the market.

 

 

 

 

November 8, 2022 by
Food

ALL ABOUT BEEF plans to open five franchised stores this month

The All About Beef (main branch) restaurant in San Fernando, Pampanga is gaining recognition for providing genuine Australian beef, despite the abundance of steakhouses serving local steaks in the area. There are a variety of beef-based items on the menu, including beef shawarma, burger patties, nachos, spaghetti, and more. But its main selling point continues to be its infinite supply of Australian steak. Not every steakhouse can lay claim to it, though.

It uses fresh, never frozen, beef. In actuality, the grass-fed cows are fattened and butchered nearby. Furthermore, because Australian beef is among the best in the world, the Australian government closely monitors the entire process.

The restaurant is one of the five corporately owned businesses among the 17 brands owned by the D’ League group of companies. It is such a must try restaurant here in Pampanga for it doesn’t just serve delicious food but it is also authentic. You will surely love all their foods and the playfulness of its taste. It is one of my faves here in the place and it is also enticing to be back and try all their foods, especially their steak. It is so yummy and it has a tempting savory aroma with the touch of natural sweetness from the beef.

“We started last July (2022) but are currently building five branches – in Angeles City, Magalang, Mabalacat, Guagua, and Floridablanca. Our main strength is that we have our own logistics company thus we can expand anywhere in Luzon to provide our distributors and dealers. We have leads for expansion in Metro Manila, Cavite, and Laguna, and more”, CEO of D’ League group of companies Neil Angelo Sicat added.

The Man with a Mission

Before becoming the business giant that he is today, Neil started out as a humble siomai vendor with a three thousand pesos in capital.  In less than a month of studying the franchising business, he launched and franchised a food cart business and soon applied the concept to the milk tea business. He was able to capitalize success upon success until the Covid -19 pandemic disrupted everything.

With a heart to serve his countrymen, he organized CARed Pool Pampanga which mobilized private individuals to provide free transport services and food to frontliners. He also started a program for daily wagers- Pamisaupan Kapampangan, long before the concept of community pantry started.

“I needed a sustainable foundation that is why I launched D’ League group of companies so I don’t have to ask for donations, instead I can provide and sustain the foundation through the income of the different companies that we have.” Neil voiced.

Neil attributes his mental fortitude to being a former seminarian for eleven years. “People think when they enter the seminary it is for a purely spiritual purpose only, but the training is psycho-spiritual. It is more on psychological development, to see things in a positive way combined with spirituality,” he said. This mindset has enabled him to overcome challenges along the way and steer his business to greater heights of success.

Filling a Need in the Market

The CEO had a lightbulb moment after watching the Netflix series Start-Up in 2020. He established the D’ League group of businesses in 2021. It set itself apart from other businesses by offering a variety of services under one roof, including consulting, incubation, building, and marketing. Its objective is to regulate the quality and standards of non-outsourced services. It is essentially a corporation that offers solutions to any problems or potential problems faced by a franchisor.

The owner and distributor of Aussie Beef and a subsidiary of the D’ League group of enterprises, Thinkbizz Trading Corporation, is a member of the Associated of Filipino Franchisers Inc. (AFFI). Being an AFFI member has several benefits. The head honcho continued, “We had a bigger network, and via the partners and the tutelage of the founders and board members, we learnt the proper way to do franchising business.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

November 7, 2022 by
Lifestyle, News

With a “wearable investment,” let’s begin securing your future

Due to their rarity, exclusivity, and beauty, precious stones like diamonds and jewelry have been linked to status and wealth for more than centuries. Others, however, saw these priceless artifacts as more than just fashion accessories or statement pieces. Some people view gold jewelry as a type of “wearable investment” that never loses value but instead appreciates over time, protecting even your financial future.

The Cebuana Lhuillier, Just Jewels, and Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium hosts its anticipated annual Black Friday Gold Rush Sale from November 11 to 17, start investing today with reasonably priced and genuine jewelry pieces. Get 10% off everything and up to 50% off a few things at the more than 3,000 Cebuana Lhuillier locations across the country. You may also get up to 10% off of selected jewelry pieces by visiting the branches of Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium and Just Jewels.

Shop online and avail up to 10% discount by simply visiting Lhuillier Jewelry Premium website at wwww.cebuanalhuillierjewelrypremium.com. You can also checkPremium via Shopee, Lazada, and Zalora with 10% discount

“Jewelry are among the best investments anybody could have. It’s a smart purchase since it’s a physical and tangible asset that is readily available, especially during emergencies. Apart from that, gold jewelry can also withstand inflation and a superior performer in times of economic instability,” Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

“We want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity to start investing now and buying gold is one of the many ways they can build a better future. Here in Cebuana Lhuillier, we want our kababayans to have access to affordable and authentic pieces of jewelry. They’re more than just a woman’s best friend, they’re everyone’s best investment,” Lhuillier added.

Profit from the nationwide discount and spend your holiday bonuses wisely by safeguarding your future and gathering high-quality items.

Visit the Facebook pa ges for Cebuana Lhuillier, Just Jewels, or Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry Premium to learn more about the most recent promotions and to get the finest bargains for the Black Friday Sale.

 

 

 

November 7, 2022 by
Lifestyle, News

A 3D whale shark billboard, the Space Tunnel, the Golden Gateway, and dazzling light displays—ALL Immersive experiences lead to SM—ARE FIRST IN MANILA

 

3D Whale Shark, SM Megamall and Mega Space Odyssey, SM Megamall

Holidays are not merely joyfully observed at SM Supermalls; they are also enjoyable, immersive, and experiential. With the first-ever 3D Whale Shark LED billboard at SM Megamall, the Aurora Trail at SM City North Edsa, the Light Show and Holiday Fireworks at SM Mall of Asia, the Golden Gate at SM Aura Premier, and the Mega Space Odyssey, we’re taking you on an adventure this year.

AURORAH TRAIL IN NORTH EDSA

Aurora Walk, SM North EDSA

This Christmas, the Northern Hemisphere is home to the dazzling lights of the Aurora Borealis. At the Aurora path, which ascends the enormous holiday tree with a spectacular display of lights, woodland, rein-bears, and the holiday polar express, you can stroll while indulging in a family-friendly immersive experience.

MEGA SPACE ODYSSEY & 3D WHALE SHARK

Travel to majestic galaxies in outer space and take photos and videos with your space explorer friends. Experience the first-ever immersive 3D LED tunnel in Manila on October 21 to December 25 at the ground level Mega Fashion Hall (at the back of the Giant Christmas Tree).

SM Supermalls introduces the new 3D technology along EDSA by screening a hyper-realistic 3D Whale Shark at SM Megamall’s LED billboard. Bringing you the first in the Philippines, High-Definition Immersive content at the heart of the bustling metropolis. Netizens are awestruck of a larger-than-life Whale Shark peeking out of a digital billboard spanning over 2,000 square foot. The Mega Whale Shark was first teased on April 27 but customers, tourists and motorists can catch the short preview every 15 minutes starting April 28 at peak hours from 12nn to 10pm daily. Watch out for the new 3D content this Christmas. The Philippines has the 2nd largest population of whale shark in the world at over 1,950.

MOA SPARKLE OF LIGHT SHOW AND HOLIDAY FIREWORKS

Sparkle of Light Show, Mall of Asia

Feel the Christmas spirit as you watch the brightest and merriest indoor Christmas tree music and lights show. Be in awe as you watch over one hundred thousand lights set to music. Catch the show DAILY, every hour from 10am to 10pm until end of December at the Central Atrium.

Holiday Fireworks, Mall of Asia

Enjoy the most awaited and better than ever fireworks display at the MOA Complex every Friday and Saturday from November to December 2022. Make sure to experience this magical moment with your families and loved ones.

AURA’s GOLDEN GATEWAY and NIGHTS OF DAZZLING LIGHTS

An immersive experience in the form of a golden jewel is hidden under the enormous Christmas tree. Technology and art come together in this enclosure, created in collaboration with the popular smartphone brand TECNO Mobile, to transport anybody who enters into scenes of a lavish holiday castle and imaginative golden realms. Presenting PHP 1,000 in individual or combined receipts is all that is need to join this glitzy new world.

Golden Gateway, SM Aura Premier

The mall includes other technological experiences besides the theater. At Level 5 of SM Aura Premier’s Skypark, there is a choreographed light and sound show that is equally magnificent. Visitors to the Skypark enter a room with tall light-string sculptures in the shape of trees. A mind-blowing musical performance will enthrall and thrill them as they pass through a jungle of lights. Every Sunday night throughout December, including December 25th itself, the choreographed audio and visual performance is available for viewing at 7 pm.

 

November 5, 2022 by
Lifestyle, News

Merry Christmas from SM Supermalls!

 

Every Filipino’s Christmas will be made happier and brighter by SM Supermalls, which brings back the thrill in every visit, joy in every sight, and a magical connection in every experience.

Ode to the stars: SM Megamall kicks off an extraterrestrial celebration                                                       

On October 20, SM officially welcomed in the holiday season with an extraordinary event at Mega & Bright: Christmas in Space 2022 at the SM Megamall. The lighting of the mall’s massive Christmas tree decorated with stars and lights marked the beginning of SM’s nationwide Happy Christmas promotion. Additionally, from October 20 until December, SM customers can view SM Megamall’s Mega Space Odyssey to get a glimpse of the cosmos. People can travel to space and view it immersively thanks to the 3D LED tunnel.

If you weren’t able to attend the SM Megamall Christmas event, there are still other ways to enjoy the season. For you and your loved ones, SM Supermalls has planned thrilling and festive activities! See the information below:

More Christmas Tree lighting activities in your favorite SM mall!

Apart from SM Megamall, other premier SM malls will light up their massive 50-foot Christmas trees to share hope, joy, and love with every SM shopper. Check out the dates below so you can drop by your favorite SM mall and watch the lighting of its dazzling trees full of lights, stars, and colorful ornaments.

Santa-approved Christmas Playpark

Witness as your favorite SM mall opens a new world of Christmas with towering centerpieces, functional spaces, and sprawling activities at the Christmas Playpark. Explore the Christmas markets and play areas, and watch out for Santa appearances, character meet and greets, and other surprises! Plus, you also get to have a multisensory experience at the playpark’s light and sound shows, festive eats and holiday treats, and a whole lot more scents and feels that will embrace you in holiday warmth and ambiance.

Sparkling lights to brighten up your holidays

Christmas won’t be festive without lights. Be in awe as you pass by hallways decked with twinkling lights, illuminated tunnels, beaming driveways, and lit parking spaces as they glow at their best.

Dining out al fresco style at the Super Spots decked with lights

SM Supermalls has also created outdoor attractions for that picture-perfect, memorable shopping, dining, and leisure activities for the whole family. At The Podium, shoppers are in for Joie De Vivre with its Holiday Night Cap on October 21-23 and 28-30 at the ADB Al Fresco, and the Food Lab on October 24-30 at the Atrium East Level 2 so everyone can discover new food specials this Christmas. You can also enjoy special treats, promos, and exclusive deals from your favorite restaurants and food merchants at the SM mall near you!

Turn Christmas AReality at SM

Don’t miss out on a phygital Christmas experience as SM incorporates the festive season with Augmented Reality. In SM Megamall, four AR filters have been made available, including Santa Claus, Reindeer, Snowman, and Sparkle. You just need to scan the QR code at the SM mall near you and see the Christmas centerpiece and magical spots come alive!

Check out the Happiness Stations

SM installed various happiness stations where you can create lasting memories with family and friends. Spot the giant bears with lights at Bears of Joy corner, the happiness photo wall, the Christmas tree decors with your family photos, or the huge TV screen where you can watch your recently filmed Tiktok or IG video at your favorite mall.

Make your furbabies feel the happiness and love

Christmas is for the whole family including furbabies! Make them happy and feel loved by joining the Holiday Paw Play Dates and Costume PAWty. You can also flex them at the Christmas photo challenge and win amazing prizes, or shop for them at the Christmas markets. Also, SM Supermalls will be partnering again with organizations for a pet adoption drive so you can help the little ones find a home in time for the holiday.

Unlock a bigger, better, and brighter virtual Christmas Village

SM will reopen its virtual Christmas Village to bring an exciting, engaging, and rewarding holiday experience to Filipinos. Check out https://gosm.link/ChristmasVillage2022 as it goes live from October 28 to January 5 for an awesome augmented reality shopping, dining, and leisure experience. Create your own avatar, e-meet fellow shoppers and SM ambassadors, and enjoy bonding time with your family and friends while playing fun games at the immersive virtual Christmas zones made for you.

Create circles of happiness by buying products for cause-oriented programs 

Since it’s the season of giving, you can support cause-oriented advocacies of individuals and organizations by purchasing products that provide opportunities and livelihood to marginalized sectors. For this year’s 100 Days campaign, SM partnered with bag designer Zarah Juan, Spark PH, the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP), the Association of Foot and Mouth Artists of the Philippines, and the Quezon City LGU for its Vote to Tote initiative.

“This Christmas, we are sending a message of happiness to every Filipino. With every activity we have for them, we hope to inspire everyone to spread sparks of happiness in their homes and communities as we celebrate this year’s holiday festivities,” said Steven T. Tan, president of SM Supermalls.

As SM Supermalls generate more enchanted moments and possibilities to make a difference in other people’s lives throughout this holiday season, a new light of experiences will bring happiness and goodwill to every Filipino. To keep up with the many holiday festivities, visit www.smsupermalls.com and follow @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.

November 5, 2022 by
Food

Balai Palmera Follows His Passion by Supporting Other Businesses in the Community

In 2019, during the height of the restriction caused by the pandemic, Chef Ryan Dimapilis, President of Balai Palmera Restaurant and Pasalubong Center, keeps himself busy by thinking of ways to keep his business afloat as well as his employees employed. “I’m a firm believer that we, Pinoys, are very resilient and at the same time supportive and loyal in many ways. This was strongly proven during the pandemic when many businesses turn online to sell their products. Most of our clients at first were mostly family and friends, which branched out and reached many more people who find our products worth a try,” he shared.

A Eureka Moment!

Balai Palmera, along with his partners and employees, created their take on Calabarzon’s popular Buko Pie, which has resulted in yet another victory for the business. Balai Palmera uses Buko Pie, which is all-fresh and free of preservatives, and sources its ingredients from nearby suppliers in the Cavite towns of Silang and Quezon. Balai Palmera’s kitchen became extremely busy as soon as limitations were relaxed and word got out, with hundreds of requests for this Buko Pie being placed every day.

“As much as we want to concentrate on this success, as a businessman, I know that there other smaller businesses that need help to bounce back from the pandemic. So, as soon as we were able to reopen some of our other businesses, we started reaching out to local manufacturers to promote and even sell their products in our Pasalubong Centers,” he added.

From one Pasalubong Center, Balai Palmera recently expanded its footprint by opening one more Pasalubong Center in Silang providing more choices and convenience to its customers. This extensive and expasive center carries other local brands that made their way to the palette of domestic and international guests of the region.

One-Stop Pinoy Favorite Shop

Balai Palmera takes pride in its merchandise for only being 100% Pinoy-made but also being DTI-approved.

“This goes to show that how dedicated we are in making our customers’ visit to our Pasalubong Centers an experience they would love to do again and again. By having DTI-approved products in shops, we are bringing the best of the region within their arms reach,” Dimapilis happily shared.

Aside from Buko Pie, Balai Palmera guests can also enjoy locally produced Pedro’s Kangkong Chips, J. Fernandez’s Chichapop, Nikimat’s Tahong Chips, Binan’s Okoy, Pastillas De Leche, Banana Chips, Mushroom Cracklings, Calamansito, Basimatsi, Coco Jam, Jacobina, Biscocho, Piaya Ube, and R&l Chicharon.

From healthy snacks to filling and heartwarming pastries and bread, one can also find comfort and enjoyment in Balai Palmera’s version of Chocolate Almond Babka, Raisin Bread as well as Ensyamada which use local ingredients from local manufacturers.

“While we continue to pray for the day to come where we are all safe and free to move around again, we will keep working with various industry leaders to create a collaborative effort that transcends Pinoy pride,” he concluded.

The first location of Balai Palmera Restaurant and Pasalubong Center is in Tagaytay-Sta. Street Bgy. The second is at Aguinaldo Highway, Bypass Road, San Vicente 2, Silang, Cavite, and the first is in Pasong Langka, Silang, Cavite.

You can follow them on their officiall Facebook and Instagram profiles for more details, updates, and news. Also watch their video: https://fb.watch/gEEH-gylkw/

November 5, 2022 by
Tech

Globe and NABU collaborate to support the literacy development of underprivileged Filipino kids

One major problem that interferes with a person’s ability to participate in society is illiteracy. It restricts employment options and keeps people in a cycle of poverty. Despite having a basic literacy rate of over 95%, there are still some undeveloped areas of illiteracy in the Philippines.

Given the critical role that literacy plays in improving people’s lives, Globe and NABU, a reading software and mother language publishing platform that makes literacy available to children around the world, have teamed. NABU, a nonprofit organization with its headquarters in New York, aims to end poverty by promoting literacy.

The partnership is in line with Globe’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including UN SDG No. 4 on the provision of quality education, and UN SDG No. 17, which highlights the value of partnerships in achieving the sustainable development goals.

“Globe is always looking for ways to empower Filipinos. We believe that literacy is a fundamental right that should be accessible to everyone. This partnership with NABU will help us make reading more accessible to Filipinos, so they can learn, appreciate local culture, and reach their full potential,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer of the Globe Group.

“We are excited to be partnering with Globe on this project. This is the first time that we are venturing into the Philippine market. We are confident that this partnership will help us solve the imbalance in children’s book creation and distribution,” said Tanyella Evans, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Creator of NABU.

According to a joint report released by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the World Bank titled “Where are we on Education Recovery?,” the Philippines is currently experiencing a “learning poverty” where an estimated 70% of 10-year olds in low- and middle-income countries are unable to read or comprehend a simple story.

Their findings also showed how learning has become further exacerbated by the global pandemic, driven by the disruption to in-person schooling.

Through this partnership, Globe will serve as a distribution unit for NABU’s e-books throughout the Philippines to complement students’ learning. Anyone can access the Nabu.org mobile app for free.

Together, the two organizations are bringing more than a hundred Filipino books, with some translated into regional languages such as Hiligaynon, Bicolano, Ilokano, Cebuano, and Maranao. NABU believes that helping children read in their local language first allows their confidence to grow. Having culturally-represented, original, and relatable stories in bilingual text increases the child’s motivation to read.

Over the next two years, Globe and NABU will seek to expand the platform’s reach by partnering with schools and learning facilities. NABU is also excited to hone the skills of Filipino creatives such as writers and illustrators to  continue telling and creating more stories that reach a wider audience.

On the Google Play Store and the App Store, you can get the NABU: Multilingual Kids Books app without charge. Visit https://www.nabu.org/read/ or https://www.nabu.org/tl/philippines for further information. The Globe has consistently backed reading and comprehension. There are hundreds of age-appropriate storybooks, eLearning videos, and other resource items that may be seen online or saved for later use on the Globe eLibrary mobile app and website (https://globeelibrary.ph/), which is available in the Philippines.

Visit the Globe website at www.globe.com.ph to discover more.

 

 

 

 

 

November 4, 2022 by
Lifestyle, Tech

DigiCon Valley and the Meaning of Startups: Mindset Over Place

The Internet & Mobile Marketing Association of the Philippines (IMMAPDigiCon )’s is the event to attend if you’re interested in marketing, advertising, or the digital sector. The event, which took place online on the conference platform ViVYD from October 10 to October 14, had DigiCon Valley as its topic this year.

The key topics of interest in the discussions were creativity, problem-solving, and the entrepreneurial spirit. There is expected to be a turning point in the Philippine start-up landscape with a rise in investments for Philippine companies in the next three years (a significantly greater pace when compared to the previous five years combined).

When asked about the focus on start-ups for this year’s theme (DigiCon Valley being, of course, reminiscent of Silicon Valley), QAIROS CEO and DigiCon co-chair Denise Haak said “We realized there is a perception of start-ups that is very pigeonholed. People seem to think that start-ups are separate things from enterprises or institutionalized organizations. But a start-up is a mindset, it’s a practice.”

The goal was to “Break down the walls of ‘we are not a start-up’ vs. ‘we are an institution,’ and show them that it’s a practice, a methodology, it’s attitude and it’s not merely a place. That’s why we have DigiCon Valley, which is not a place. It is a state of mind,” said Haak,

The idea of start-ups being a state of mind resonated with both actual start-ups and stable companies, said fellow co-chair and General Manager of FutureProof PH Trish Elamparo-Esteban. “From 2020 onwards, we all had to be agile and apply these problem-solving skills that start-ups do. We all had to be a start-up in one way or another.”

THE KEY MOMENT

The opening keynote for DigiCon Valley went to Jake Knapp, New York Times Bestselling Author and inventor of Design Sprint, a process that uses design when bringing new products to market in five days. Credits to his name include Google Meets, Gmail, and Microsoft.

Knapp discussed Design Sprint, which is centered on the belief that solution planning can be condensed into one week, rather than a drawn-out timetable. “Focus on the key moment,” he said.

THE DETERMINATION TO FIGHT

This was followed by Angkas CEO George Royeca, who discussed his company’s method of disruptive innovation. According to Royeca, there was an obvious problem of traffic and congestion and their effects, and an even more obvious opportunity to solve them. “Think of how to identify a real problem and the steps needed to solve it,” he said.

Disruptive innovation, said Royeca, is nothing more than disrupting the status quo. There can be pushback, which Royeca illustrated using the example of Elvis Presley, and which he then compared with the early days of Angkas. “I felt like Elvis,” he said, especially when they experienced market acceptance.

Like Elvis, he also experienced the naysayers from the establishment. “We were shut down, and our office was raided. Our bikes were impounded,” he said. At the government hearings, Royeca heard the testimonials of those helped by Angkas. “I never realized you could be an OFW in your city,” he said. It made him more determined to fight.

FROM AWARENESS TO ACTION

Over the next couple of days, other keynote speakers shared their tidbits of advice. Arianna Huffington, CEO of Thrive and founder of the Huffington Post talked about what she termed “collective delusion”: that to succeed, we must burn out and power through exhaustion.

For Huffington, her moment of realization happened after what could be called a series of unfortunate events. She hit her head on her desk and broke her cheekbone after a tiring day. “It helped me realize that burnout was not just my problem but a global epidemic.”

Rather than resting on her laurels and promoting her new mantra of rest and restoration through her eponymous media company, Huffington decided that the way to go was to build a “behavior change technology company.” The aim was to help people adopt healthier practices and to make them believe it was possible to go from awareness to action.

She also cautioned against completely leaving your chosen field, as it could lead to giving up on jobs or goals you truly want for yourself. “It’s not necessary,” she said. “It’s a choice between burnout and having a job with great boundaries where you do great work but where you are not defined by your job.”

Rather than work-life balance, Huffington proposed that “work-life integration” is the better prospect, due to its flexible nature. “There will be days when you need to work extra hard because you have a deadline to meet, you have a client presentation and there will be days when you may have a sick child or when you may have something at home that requires your full attention.”

BELIEVING IN GOOD

Meanwhile, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa cautioned that misinformation is damaging to humanity. Social media’s power in influencing credibility is a double-edged sword that has repercussions in both personal and public life.

She named an MIT study that said that lies spread six times faster than truth. “When you hear the lie from so many different places and you hear it repeatedly, it’s kind of like Pavlov’s dogs, you become conditioned,” she said. “So, social media became a behavior modification system and we have seen this in many countries around the world. If you don’t have the integrity of facts, we don’t have the integrity of elections.”

How do we combat this? Ressa called on laws to protect, among others, free speech, online content moderation, user safety, and data privacy. She also believes that data privacy must be protected from those trying to profit from it.

Above all, being courageous and believing in the intrinsic good of people is needed, despite the current climate. “To be good, you have to believe it is good in the world,” she said. “Ask yourself: what will you sacrifice for the truth because your courage determines the fate of humanity?”

IMMAP DigiCon VALLEY 2022 would like to thank its Co-Presenter Angkas. Platinum sponsors Manulife Philippines, Share Treats, and TikTok. Gold sponsors GrabAds, Investing in Women, an initiative of the Australian Government, Kroma Entertainment, Maya Philippines, McDonald’s, Meta, MetaverseGo!, and Smart. Silver Sponsors Digital Turbine, Hepmil Philippines, and Metrobank.

The Platinum Media Partners GMA New Media, Inc., Manila Broadcasting Company, and Rappler are also acknowledged by IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022. The Asian Parent, The New Channel, Podcast Network Asia, Manila Bulletin, CNN Philippines, and ABS-CBN are among the Gold Media Partners. Adobo magazine, BusinessWorld, Inquirer.net, Kroma Entertainment, Manila Times, and Philippine Star are all part of Silver Media Partners.

Finally, Event Partners CICP, Endeavor, Eventscape Manila, and Kickstart Ventures are acknowledged on behalf of IMMAP DigiCon Valley 2022.

 

 

 

November 4, 2022 by
Lifestyle, News

The Vibrant Mark of a Real Industry Leader

(from left): Local Business Line Manager – DKSH Phils, Inc and PAPM Secretary General- Mr. Diosdado Cheng: President Fedchem Manufacturing & Distribution Inc. Vice President: Mayon Industrial Corporation and President: Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers Inc. : President Charlie Kwa CEO and Founder of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. and Construction Chemical Specialist – Mr. Derrick Tan: Chief of Finance of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. – Ms. Sabrina Tan

Filipinos recall Sinclair for its iconic 80s and 90s campaign, which encouraged more individuals to perform their own house improvements. The motto “Sinclair it!” from the company became synonymous with the word “do-it-yourself” or “DIY”. which throughout the years has made the brand a household name. Sinclair has stayed true to its objective of offering top-notch paint products to countless families and businesses around the world over the past few years.

Sinclair is making its return to the local market with a wider and more sophisticated selection of products that offer beauty, durability, affordability, and eco-friendly solutions suitable for every Pinoy home as a result of technological advancements and as the market for construction development remains competitive.

The New Generation of Sinclair

With the reopening of the local market, Sinclair’s timely return will fire up the local competition with its latest premium products that continue the legacy that it started.

Aside from its Traditional or Classic Paint selection that made Sinclair one of the world’s pioneer and trusted brands, Sinclair highlights its innovation with its modern technology paint system, from oil-based to water-based paint and universal colorants.

“We’re delighted to bring back the brand that provided beauty, protection, and comfort to many Filipinos over the past years. With Sinclair’s new line of products – from oil-based to water-based – customers can assure continued premium quality products that will last for a long time while keeping the environment safe and sound,” Mr. Derick Tan, Founder, and CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc., the company that manufactures Sinclair in the Philippines.

Sinclair’s new generation of paint products highlights its waterproofing innovation that made the paint system more economical, easier to apply, and durable. Inspired by the beauty and long-lasting capability of nature, these new generation paints are made suitable for the tropical weather system in the Philippines on top of the climate change we’re experiencing:

Natica Waterproofing Paint – Inspired by the abundant marine shells in the Philippines, this waterproofing paint possesses marine shells’ thick and smooth features that represent durability and protection. Made of modified pure acrylic paint, this latest innovation of Sinclair is used as a water-proofer, primer, sealer, and top coat making it more cost-efficient than the traditional method of waterproofing and painting exterior walls.

Armadillo Polyurethane Paint – inspired by the New World placental mammal, this Armadillo Polyurethane Paint is the first water-based PU Paint in the Philippines takes pride in being a tough and flexible paint just like an armadillo skin. Recommended to use for high-rise buildings to avoid frequent repainting or costly paint over because of its durability.

Tamago Cleanable Interior Paint – Sinclair’s take on the sheen of an egg – or Tamago (卵/玉子) in the Japanese language – is made to provide a sleeker yet manageable look for home and establishment’s interiors. Made to provide a clean and cleanable look, its simple yet calming effect is achieved with its balance of flat and glossy while protecting your walls or hiding wall imperfections.

Taro Silicone Paint – Is the first silicone paint in the country. With the wet season taking over almost half of the year in the Philippines, rainwater has become one of the main reasons why paint fails to protect many homes and establishments. With Sinclair’s Taro Silicone Paint, families and establishments can have peace of mind any season due to its impregnating capabilities. Impregnation happens when the paint penetrates through the pores of the substrate thus enhancing its adhesion. It also has high-performance formula creating high-vapor permeability that allows water vapor to escape from the surface, avoiding the build-up of algae and fungus that cause paint to peel off. This paint is suitable for structures located in highlands, beside seashores, and areas where wall moisture is present.

More Options to Choose From

Aside from the New Generation paints, Sinclair also levels up its Classic Paint selection which ranges from oil-based to water-based paints that provide equal beauty and protection to various surfaces.

Ligno – this waster-based wood primer is ideal for priming, sealing, and filling wooden substrates that help prevent tannins and stains. An eco-friendly product, this paint has low odor, low volatile organic compounds, and is non-toxic.

Rhino – for those metal surfaces, this Sinclair water-based metal primer and top coat provide a two-in-one purpose that saves time and money. This paint has excellent corrosion resistance for indoor and outdoor applications, ideal for new or weathered galvanized metal, steel, and aluminum roofing surfaces, properly prepared or treated ferrous metal, garages and fences, machines and industrial equipment, pipelines, and tanks.

Cascara – for multi-surface paint, the Sinclair Cascara is an eco-friendly, high-gloss, low-odor, water-based paint ideal as a topcoat for wood, metal, and concrete on interior and exterior areas.

Sinclair is also sparking more colors to its Filipino customer through its colorants products that are made to provide good color retention without losing the glossiness of the base paint. Along with its New Generation paints, Sinclair is also launching Chameleon Colorant, which is dubbed as the universal colorant that gives accurate blend and color preference. Chameleon Colorants are specially formulated using special types of chemicals and pigments to ensure that they can blend homogenously either with water-based, solvent-based or epoxy-based type of paints.

Mr. Derrick Tan

“With more Filipinos enjoying DIY home projects, Sinclair paint products that are highly recommended by professionals are made to spark creativity and freedom, while providing protection, peace of mind, and value to Pinoy’s hard work and money,” Mr. Tan concluded.

During PHILCONSTUCT 2022, Sinclair Paint officially returned to the Philippine market. Visit https://www.magnaprime.com.ph/product-category/sinclair for more information on the items made by Sinclair.

 

 

November 3, 2022 by