Monthly Archives

October 2025

Lifestyle, Travel

Before the holiday rush for travel and shipping, 2GO opens a new store on NAIA Road

2GO Travel AVP for F&B, Ancillary and Hotel Operations Roland Sunga; FedEx Acting Senior Manager for Pick-Up and Delivery Operations Rico Medina; 2GO Travel Business Unit Head Francis John Chua; FedEx Managing Director Maribeth Espinosa; 2GO Retail Business Unit Head Blessie Cruz; CAEMC President Capt. Renato G. Reyes; 2GO Forwarding Business Unit Head Faye Babar; CAEMC Vice President Capt. Ben S. Nasayao; and CAEMC Operations Manager Antonio Cervales.

To better assist passengers, senders, and surrounding businesses, 2GO, the top logistics and travel solutions provider in the Philippines, has launched a new location along NAIA Road.

The 2GO NAIA Road Store, which is situated in the CAEMC Commercial Building close to Park and Fly, provides a comprehensive array of retail logistics services, such as expedited delivery of packages and documents, additional luggage and cargo shipment both domestically and internationally, and the ability to book and purchase tickets for 2GO Travel.

“We’re thrilled to bring 2GO closer to our customers who are always on the go,” said Blessie Cruz, Vice President and Business Unit Head for 2GO Retail. “This new location makes it easier for travelers and residents to access our shipping and travel services right before heading to the airport.”

To mark the opening, 2GO is offering 10% off on all domestic and international shipments until October 31, 2025.

As the holiday season approaches, 2GO has expanded its store network and optimized its air, land, and sea logistics to meet the expected surge in travel and delivery demand.

“Every Christmas season, our goal is to keep families connected and businesses moving,” added Cruz. “Whether you’re sending gifts, shipping goods, or traveling to your favorite destinations like the newly-launched Manila-Siargao weekly services, 2GO is ready to deliver care and convenience.”

Using navigation apps, customers can find CAEMC Commercial Bldg., NAIA Road (near Park and Fly) to visit the new store.

For news and special offers, visit facebook.com/2GOExpressInc.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com.

 

 

October 22, 2025 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Globe GoGIVE: Giving young Filipinos the opportunity to purposefully live their digital lives

GGIVE PGH Rewards

Now, prolonged video chats, daily social media scrolling, and mobile gaming marathons may all contribute to environmental and social concerns to bring about meaningful change.

With GoGIVE, Globe Prepaid has made this a reality by giving young Filipinos a creative way to use their phones in the same way they already do, making a consistent and long-lasting impact. When subscribers use their mobile data for any online activity, they immediately receive hearts.

A wide variety of causes are supported by the hearts.

GoGIVE PGH Hearts

“We understand that today’s youth want to make a difference, but they need solutions that work with their lifestyle, not against it. GoGIVE easily integrates into everyday life, allowing them to be changemakers through the technology they love,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid.

Since its launch in March 2025, GoGIVE has already generated an impressive 2.7 billion “hearts” from more than 37,000 contributors, and the numbers continue to climb as more people participate in this digital movement of giving.

Globe Prepaid is currently partnered with these advocacies:

With the successful completion of PAWS initial goals, GoGIVE is now focusing on amplifying support for our other crucial advocacies such as Project PEARLS, World Vision Philippines, Philippine Eagle Foundation, and PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.

To join, Globe Prepaid customers can simply download the GlobeOne app, click the GoGIVE icon, and select their preferred advocacy.

Globe’s dedication to sustainability and social responsibility is embodied by GoGIVE. It exhorts everyone to “Go Forward Together,” reminding them that even modest online actions can have a big offline impact.

Download the GlobeOne app or go to https://www.globe.com.ph/ to learn more about GoGIVE and how to live a purposeful digital life.

 

 

 

October 21, 2025 by
Entertainment

The 2025 Golden Indie Music Awards reveal the finalists for the “Best Asian Creative Artist Award,” international special guests, and ceremony highlights

South Korean indie rock band Silica Gel and Thai rapper AUTTA (featuring Taiwanese trio The Chairs) are both set to deliver distinct showcases

On Saturday, November 1, 2025, the Taipei Music Center will hold The Golden Indie Music Awards (GIMA), Taiwan’s leading independent music award-giving organization. The event will be livestreamed in Thailand and South Korea.

This year’s event highlights international guest artists, such as emerging Thai rapper AUTTA and South Korea’s top indie rock band Silica Gel, who will perform alongside Taiwan’s folk-pop group The Chairs in a rare cross-border partnership. With a focus on this year’s theme, “Brave,” the eagerly awaited collaboration will include four additional performers from throughout Asia whose music exemplifies a fearlessness in facing expectations and expressing uncompromising truth.

On the Asian front, GIMA will be honoring the “Best Asian Creative Artist Award,” whose nominees illustrate the breadth of Asia’s independent music scene, crossing languages and genres while sharing a commitment to authenticity.

From 60 submissions across Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand, the shortlist features South Korean electro-punk duo Fat Hamster and KANG New, rising South Korean R&B and neo-soul artist Jacqui, Indonesian indie group Lomba Sihir, socio-politically charged rock band. Feast, and Tokyo-born, Melbourne-based violinist, producer, and vocalist ELLE SHIMADA.

Now in its 16th year, the GIMA drew a record 4,052 submissions from across Asia.

Nominee Best Asian Creative Artist Award Lomba Sihir scaled

Among the nominees, rapper and songwriter Hsien Ching (陳嫺靜) has emerged as one of the most talked-about figures, securing seven nominations for her twin albums, 《If we can be happy happy every day, who wants to be sad:))》and《If we can be happy happy every day, who wants to be sad:＊》. Her work, defined by a non-conventional approach to hip hop and a distinctly female perspective, has made her a unique voice in Taiwan’s independent music scene. Close behind is the band Lilium (百合花), which blends Taiwanese language, traditional instruments, and rock elements in their album,《Everything Will Go Wonderfully》, earning six nominations and demonstrating the vibrancy of Taiwan’s cultural roots within modern music. The nominations also include works by prominent and emerging artists such as Enno Cheng (鄭宜農), Modern Cinema Master (當代電影大師), YELLOW (黃宣), Dinosaur’s Skin (恐龍的皮), and Andr, whose creations have likewise drawn significant attention.

Please visit the 16th Golden Indie Music Awards’ GIMA’s official website or follow on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for additional information and a full list of nominees.

October 21, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev to Revamp Aldevinco in Line with Davao’s Expanding Urban Growth

Aldevinco Shopping Center 2015

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) revealed plans to start redeveloping the Aldevinco Shopping Center site by the end of October 2025. Situated at the intersection of C.M. Recto and Roxas Avenue, the property has been a well known landmark in downtown Davao for decades. The redevelopment aims to transform the historic site into a contemporary mixed use hub that fosters the city’s ongoing progress and urban renewal while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Aldevinco Shopping Center served as one of Davao City’s earliest commercial hubs and stood as a cultural landmark for over five decades.

Established in 1965, the Aldevinco Shopping Center was among Davao City’s first commercial landmarks. For more than fifty years, it evolved from a bustling marketplace for local merchants into a cultural symbol celebrating Mindanao’s diverse heritage through its textiles, antiques, and crafts. Although it closed its doors in December 2021, its legacy lives on at Poblacion Market Central, where many of its original tenants continue to uphold the same tradition of culture, creativity, and trade.

Preparing the historic site for the future

The redeveloped property is envisioned to become a flagship mixed-use development that reflects Alsons Dev’s vision for vibrant, sustainable, and people-centric spaces.

The transformation will begin with the demolition of the buildings on the premises, a necessary step due to the structure’s age and safety considerations. The work will be carried out in sections to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of pedestrians, workers, and nearby establishments. The company is also working closely with the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO) and other relevant government agencies to ensure full compliance with local regulations.

While long-term plans are being finalized, Alsons Dev will temporarily use the 5,106-square-meter site into a paid parking facility by Q2 2026. The interim space will feature designated areas for food trucks and carts, offering convenience and new opportunities for small businesses while keeping the property active and vibrant in the heart of the city.

Looking ahead

As Aldevinco enters a new chapter, Alsons Dev reaffirms its dedication to thoughtful and sustainable development that contributes to the vitality of Davao’s urban landscape.

The aging buildings will be cleared to make way for a redevelopment that continues to cultivate Davao’s growth.

“Our vision is to build developments that balance heritage and progress, ensuring that every project we undertake supports the city’s growth. As a homegrown developer, we take pride in helping shape Davao’s evolving environment,” said Miguel A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev.

The company will share regular updates to keep the public informed as the redevelopment progresses. For further details, follow the official Alsons Dev Official Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

 

October 20, 2025 by
Food

On this World Bread Day, Dimples Romana declares Marby Superloaf to be her family’s new staple food

On October 16, Marby Food Ventures held a celebration of World Bread Day at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. Dimples Romana, a beloved actress and active mother, joined Filipino families and left the event with a clear message: Switch to Marby! The resounding success shown that Marby’s recently improved Superloaf has persuaded customers that it’s time to make it a necessary home staple.

The fact that bread is more than simply food and is a staple of daily family life was brought to light on World Bread Day, as mothers shared snack tips and children playedfully nibbled on their favorite sandwiches. Marby Superloaf, who is now mas pina-siksik, mas pina-pino, mas pina-lambot, and mas pinasarap, was the center of attention.

With Ms Dimples Romana

Marby Food Ventures’ World Bread Day celebration showed how something as simple as bread can bring families together. Seeing Dimples Romana share this moment with fellow moms made the event feel warm and relatable. It reminded me that bread isn’t just a meal—it’s part of our daily family moments, from breakfast to merienda. Marby’s upgraded Superloaf truly represents comfort, quality, and the simple joys that connect us at the table.

The celebration brought together families to honor the role Marby bread plays in daily Filipino life.

Guests shared how every slice felt soft and satisfying, making it a versatile choice for both sweet and savory meals, noting that the Superloaf easily fits into their routines, from school snacks in the morning to family merienda in the afternoon. Attendees experienced the upgraded Marby Superloaf, na mas pina-siksik, mas pina-pino, mas pina-malambot, at mas pinasarap, securing  its place as a new household staple.

The day featured activities that brought families closer together. Chef Marky, known for his creative food content, conducted a live demo showcasing quick and exciting snack ideas with Marby Superloaf, reminding parents that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Kids enjoyed neighborhood-inspired games while parents participated in stage games and savored special treats.

Families also took advantage of  an exclusive Buy 1 Take 1 Marby Loaf promo, allowing them to bring the experience home. Many remarked that Marby Superloaf felt like a new household staple.

Celebrating Everyday Bread Moments

The celebration extended beyond the venue, as photos and stories filled social media, with moms, kids, and influencers sharing their favorite Marby Superloaf moments. The excitement reflected not only the success of the event but also the bread’s growing place in real family occasions.

Marby strengthened its standing as a reliable bread brand for Filipino homes by spearheading this year’s World Bread Day celebration. Marby Superloaf, whether it is served at the merienda table or packed in a lunchbox, is quickly becoming the new bread of choice for Filipino families and is ingrained in the little but significant moments of daily life.

The bread that is rapidly becoming a daily favorite in Filipino homes, Marby Superloaf, is the perfect moment to make room on your table! The updated Marby Superloaf is readily available in the grocery shop closest to you for those who wish to try it. It is also available for convenient online buying through Lazada, Shopee and TikTok Shop, making it simple to check out a loaf and enjoy it at home.

 

 

 

 

 

October 20, 2025 by
Automotive

Honda Strengthens Its Dedication to All Filipino Riders by Reaching 800 Strong

This milestone highlights HPI’s mission to provide reliable mobility and quality service to  communities nationwide

With the opening of its 800th store nationwide through the recently opened Transcycle Bagac, Bataan branch, run by Gentrade International Philippines, Inc. (GIPI), Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the nation’s top motorcycle manufacturer, marks yet another milestone. This expansion of HPI’s dealership network will enable more Filipino riders to have access to top-notch motorcycles and dependable service. In addition to expanding HPI’s reach, this milestone confirms the company’s steadfast dedication to regional development and nationwide consumer convenience.

The new Honda store in Bagac, Bataan is intended to serve as a one-stop shop for Bataan’s motorcycle community. With a floor space of 243 square meters, the state-of-the-art factory provides a full range of products, from powerful sports bikes and cutting-edge electric cars to effective automatic, cub, and commercial units.

Furthermore, the store ensures premium ownership experience with a fully equipped service bay featuring special tools, Honda genuine parts, and highly trained mechanics. For added comfort, customers can unwind in the dedicated lounge area with complimentary Wi-Fi and refreshments while waiting for their preventive maintenance service.

L-R: Mr. Matthew Siy Cha (Transcycle Chief Executive Officer), Mr. Jose “Nonoy” Siy Cha ( Transcycle Managing Director), Mr. Takeshi Kobayashi (Honda Philippines, Inc. President), Atty. Juanita Siy ( Transcycle Managing Director), Mr. Mark Dionisio See ( Transcycle Business Development Head) and Mr. Hervic Villa (Honda Philippines, Inc. Sales Office 1 General Manager)

The inauguration ceremony, held last October 16, was graced by key leaders symbolizing the strong partnership behind this milestone: HPI President Mr. Takeshi Kobayashi; and General Manager for Sales Office 1 Mr. Hervic Villa. Representing their valued partner with Transcycle Managing Directors Mr. Jose “Nonoy” Siy Cha and Atty. Juanita Siy, together with Mr. Matthew Siy Cha, Chief Executive Officer of Transcycle and Mr. Mark Dioniso See, Business Development Head of Transcycle who joined local riders and customers from Bataan in the celebration.

“The opening of 800th Honda 3S Shop marks a significant achievement as we take pride in providing trusted products and services. Honda is committed to deliver mobility solutions that uplift lives and empower Filipinos to achieve their dreams.,” said Mr. Takeshi Kobayashi, President of Honda Philippines, Inc.

Echoing the same spirit, Mr. Matthew Siy Cha, CEO of Transcycle, said, “this new branch is more than just a building. It’s a commitment to serve our customers better, to bring the Honda experience closer to the community, and to create opportunities for growth, both for our people and our city.”

This accomplishment highlights HPI’s dominance in the market and its unwavering dedication to nation-building. The launch of the company’s 800th store is a tribute to the “Power of Dreams” that will propel every Filipino family forward as it continues to spur growth and foster consumer loyalty.

The new Transcycle Bagac, Bataan is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

To learn more, go to www.hondaph.com. Follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook at facebook.com/hondaph, Instagram at instagram.com/hondaph_mc/, YouTube at Honda Philippines_Motorcycle, and TikTok at tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines to stay up to speed on HPI’s latest offerings and promotions. For questions, call 0917-884-6632 and (02)-8581-6700 to 6799.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

October 18, 2025 by
Automotive

The champions of the 2025 TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship will compete for their nation in the Asia Finals in Thailand

Victor Ancheta, Enzo Ison and Matthew Ang round up Team Philippines

(L-R) Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) Vice President for Marketing Services Elvin Luciano, TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship 2025 2nd Placer Enzo Ison, Champion Victor Ancheta, 3rd Placer Matthew Ang, and TMP Senior Vice President Masahiro Haoka

The victors were announced last October 12th, marking the exciting conclusion of the sixth season of Toyota Motor Philippines’ (TMP) premier sim racing competition, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines eSports GT Championship.

More than 20,000 people watched the competition over the weekend at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay, where the top sim racers in the nation competed for thrilling rewards and the chance to represent the Philippines in the Asia Finals.

Newcomer Victor Ancheta emerged as champion after competing against 39 other racers through the quarterfinals, semifinals and national finals. Qualifying third overall among more than 250 participants during the qualifiers, Ancheta consistently placed in the top ranks in all his races, just behind seasoned sim racers.

Meanwhile, 2024 season runner-up and Asia Finals participant Enzo Ison bagged 2nd Place. A top contender, Ison ranked first in the qualifiers, and showed consistent performance throughout the finals to secure his spot on the podium.

2023 third placer and Asia Finals participant Matthew Ang took the last spot on the podium at 3rd Place, completing Team Philippines. Ang qualified second overall during the qualifiers, establishing himself as a racer to look out for.

For the quarterfinals, the top 40 sim racers from the qualifiers were seeded into four groups of 10 players each, where each group took on Dragon Tail Gardens in the GR Yaris High Performance ’20 in three race heats. The starting grid of the first race heat was decided by a qualifying time trial (QTT), while the second race heat put racers in a reverse grid based on their finishing order in the first race. For the third race heat, the QTT results of the first race heat were re-used to set the grid.

Ison topped the ranks in the quarterfinals, followed by Ang, and Jether Miole.

The top 20 racers then went wheel-to-wheel in the semifinals the following day, where points were reset. Participants were seeded into two groups of 10 racers each. The first race put racers in the Toyota GR Supra Race Car 19 Gr. 4 on Mount Panorama. The same car was used during the second race in the drizzling Redbull Ring. For the third and final race of the semifinals, tire wear and fuel consumption were enabled to test the racers’ race craft on the Daytona International Speedway.

Miole pulled off an exceptional drive, placing first in the semifinals. He was followed by Ang in second, and Ison in third.

Following the semifinals, the TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship surprised everyone with the announcement of the Wild Card Round. The surprise round called back eight racers who did not make it to the top 10 for a chance to take the 11th seat in the national finals. The participating racers were chosen through a random draw.

2024 Champion Luis Moreno and 2023 Champion Russel Reyes join eight lucky racers in the Wild Card Round

To add more thrill to the Wild Card Round races, previous champions Luis Moreno and Russel Reyes were called onstage to join the grid. With Moreno and Reyes in the mix, the eight lucky racers had to learn how to keep up with high-level driving from experienced veterans.

James Lopez, who finished in third place behind Reyes and Moreno, was announced the Wild Card Round winner and advanced to the national finals.

The national finals had the top 11 racers going head-to-head in three races, each in a different car and track. Racers drove the Toyota Supra Racing Concept ’18 on Kyoto Driving Park – Yamagiwa for the first race, the Toyota GR Yaris on Colorado Springs for the second race, and the Toyota GR010 Hybrid on the technical Circuit de Spa Francorchamps in dynamic weather conditions for the third and final race.

Consistency and race craft would be key for the national finals as score multipliers would be applied to the second and third races, where tire wear and fuel consumption were also enabled.

Matthew Ang took pole position but was overtaken by Enzo Ison in the first race, who went on to win the race. He was followed by Victor Ancheta in second, and Jether Miole in third.

In the second race, Ang made his way to the front of the pack to secure first place, showing off his skill in the dirt track. Miole and Ison finished behind him in second and third, respectively.

A scuffle in the first lap of the third race would relegate Miole to the back of the pack, while tire strategy would affect the pace and track position of Ison and Ang, putting Michael Velasquez and Victor Ancheta ahead of them in the final laps. A bold overtake by Velasquez in the final lap took the win away from Ancheta, and Corwin Mercado finished behind them in third.

After rounding up the points, Victor Ancheta was crowned the TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship 2025 champion with 72 points, Enzo Ison in 2nd Place with 67.5 points, and Matthew Ang in 3rd Place with 61.5 points.

Special awards were also given to Ancheta for Crowd Favorite, Jether Miole for Best Overtake, Ison for Smooth Operator, and Ang for the Pole Position Award.

“I feel happy that I won the championship, and I feel honored to be one of the drivers to be representing the Philippines. I am looking forward to going up against Asia’s fastest drivers and see where I stand up against them,” shared Ancheta.

“It feels great to be on the podium and that I will have the chance to represent the country once again in Thailand next month. I’m looking forward for another fun experience and hopefully get a great result for Team Philippines at the Asia Finals!” shared Ison.

“I felt disappointed since I genuinely felt I could become champion this year, but now I feel grateful and empowered to perform well in the Asia Finals. I’m looking forward to representing my country again and more importantly, seeing my old competitors from 2023 and seeing how much I improved in two years,” shared Ang.

Ancheta, Ison and Ang will represent Team Philippines at the Asia Finals in Thailand on November 23.

The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines eSports GT Championship 2025 is sanctioned by the Automobile Association Philippines and is brought to you by Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron and Official Tire Partner GT Radial.

Toyota Financial Services Philippines, Tuason Racing, AVT, 3M, Denso, OMP, ROTA, Autoplus, PIAA, Vinyl Frog Premier Vehicle Wraps, AutoQuix, Sparco, myTOYOTA Wallet, and Kino One are also supporting this event.

Follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X for the most recent updates if you’re interested in competing in the TGR Philippines eSports GT Championship the following season.

Join the Toyota PH Viber community, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, and follow ToyotaMotorPH on X to stay up to date on Toyota events, services, and products.

 

 

 

 

October 18, 2025 by
Food, Lifestyle

PASKO NA, But still want to keep it sulit? Don’t worry, we’ve gotchu covered!

Make the most of your Christmas with good deals and convenience at your fingertips

For us Filipinos, a switch turns the moment the ber-months arrive. Christmas is a four-month (or possibly five-month) festival that marks the end of the year, not just one day.

Following Simbang Gabi, the air is warmed by the delightful aroma of puto bumbong and bibingka. Homes are brimming with Christmas enthusiasm, the streets are aglow with colorful lights, and food is quickly becoming the unavoidable, endearing focal point of every festivity. When our loved ones return home—OFWs, students, and employees—every meal together becomes a treasured, life-long family memory.

With the long list of expenses for gifts, gatherings, and decorations, Filipinos have mastered the art of the sulit celebration: maximum joy, minimum gastos. The Filipino Christmas has always been defined by diskarte (resourcefulness) and creativity: planning early, perfecting potlucks, and finding smart ways to make the season lighter on the wallet but just as full of joy. Because for us, the magic isn’t in how grand the feast is, but in how full the table feels—with laughter, love, and the people who matter most.

This Christmas, foodpanda helps Filipinos celebrate more while spending less through the PASKONA voucher, which gives up to ₱100 off on favorite dishes and essentials from beloved food spots such as KFC, Mang Inasal, Shakey’s, Pizza Hut, Popeyes, Angel’s Pizza, Kenny Rogers, Goldilocks, Pickup Coffee, and grocery partners on the app.

Beyond savings, foodpanda also brings ease and reliability to the busy holiday season—making food, gifts, and essentials just a few taps away. Whether it’s a last-minute handa, a potluck with friends, or a quick grocery run, foodpanda’s got every Filipino covered, so they can focus on what truly matters: celebrating the joy of Christmas.

Patricia Jacinto, Marketing Director of foodpanda Philippines shared that the campaign is about helping Filipinos find new ways to make the busy holiday season simpler, more affordable, and more enjoyable. “The holidays are a time for connection and celebration, but they can also be overwhelming. With foodpanda, we want to make it easier and more sulit for everyone to celebrate by bringing convenience, savings, and joy straight to their homes. We want everyone to be able to celebrate the holidays without stress,” she reflected.

It’s a straightforward dessert that serves as a reminder to everyone that Christmas magic need not equate to luxury. Good company, delicious food, and the small things that brighten life are important at times. Because it’s comforting to know that someone is there for you when you need them most, especially during the Christmas rush. “PASKONA, WE GOTCHU!” is what foodpanda is saying this time.”

Both new and returning customers can use the PASKONA coupon until December 31, 2025. This Christmas, make every event sarap-sulit by checking the Foodpanda app for updates.

 

 

 

October 17, 2025 by
Beauty, Lifestyle

CCIP and the FDA have an industry discussion during the third general membership meeting

Chamber of Cosmetic Industry of the Philippines EVP for external affairs Janina Gutierrez-Tan leads the open forum for the three FDA representatives

During its third General Membership Meeting (GMM) at the SMX Convention Center, the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines, Inc. (CCIP) convened stakeholders in the cosmetics and personal care industries for a historic interaction with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “FDA Frontline: What’s New & What’s Next?” was the theme of the event.The Beauty + Health & Wellness Convention was also conducted during this time.

The event gave industry participants a unique chance to speak with FDA representatives directly about regulatory issues and receive firsthand information on the procedures, rules, and digital changes influencing the personal care and cosmetics business. The FDA Center for Cosmetics Regulation and Research Officer Esperanza Almenanza, CCIP President Christine Reyes, Executive Vice President for External Affairs Janina Gutierrez-Tan (JRadiance Corporation), Regulation Officer for Cosmetic and Beauty Products Ralph Christofer Manapat, and Representative Florlita Gabuna are among the distinguished speakers.

In her remarks, Reyes underscored the importance of continuous dialogue between regulators and industry players. “It’s uncommon for stakeholders to have this level of direct interaction with the FDA. This gathering demonstrates how partnership can advance the cosmetics industry while ensuring consumer safety.”

Opening the discussion with a presentation on Post-Marketing Surveillance (PMS), Almenanza outlined how the FDA verifies and monitors products through consumer complaints, routine sampling, and the review of advertisements and marketing claims across platforms.

FDA center for cosmetics regulation and research officer Esperanza O. Almenanza talks about post-marketing surveillance process at the CCIP 3rd general membership meeting

“Brands should not be intimidated when they receive a notice of non-compliance. What matters most is transparency and providing corrective and preventive actions. Compliance is a shared responsibility, not a punishment,” Almenanza said, adding that product recall protocols are preventive tools for consumer protection, with the urgency and scope depending on the level of risk involved.

Meanwhile, FDA acknowledged existing processing delays and introduced the Food and Drug Action Center (FDAC) hotline as a dedicated follow-up channel to improve communication and reduce backlogs. Moreover, new guidelines are being developed for Functional Pop Beauty (F-POP) cosmetics, with ASEAN standards serving as the foundation and certain categories potentially adopting frameworks inspired by Korea’s functional cosmetics certification.

Addressing key customs and importation issues, the FDA also clarified that it has no direct jurisdiction over the Bureau of Customs but continues to issue public advisories to assist importers. CCIP pledged to support members facing unnecessary or overlapping requirements outside FDA’s authority. FDA officials emphasized their ongoing efforts to work collaboratively with the private sector to enhance efficiency and transparency in regulatory processes.

CCIP’s function as a liaison between the business sector and regulators was reinforced by this interaction. In order to establish the Philippines as a rising leader in the global market for cosmetics and personal care products, the organization keeps promoting compliance as a catalyst for innovation, credibility, and long-term growth.

More than 180 companies in the cosmetics value chain, including producers, importers, distributors, suppliers, and service providers, are represented by the non-profit trade group CCIP. CCIP, a founding member of the ASEAN Cosmetics Association, promotes regulatory harmonization, cooperation with the government and foreign partners, and global competitiveness as the unified voice of the Philippine cosmetics sector.

To learn more about CCIP, contact [email protected]

For more information about CCIP:

Website: https://cciphilippinesinc.com/

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chamberofcosmeticsph

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

Email address: [email protected]

 

 

October 17, 2025 by
Automotive

Car Horror Stories: Road Accidents You Must Prevent This Undas

Proper car maintenance and a ‘Siguradong Compatible’ coolant can save you from these road nightmares

Families gather on Undas, also known as All Saints’ Day/All Souls’ Day, to remember lost loved ones and restore ties to their heritage. However, it also means long commutes, congested roads, and erratic road conditions for many. Prestone®, the top brake fluid and coolant in the Philippines, advises drivers that being prepared is the first step towards a safe trip as thousands of Filipinos get ready to head to the provinces this season. This is because road horror stories can surprise you at any time.

Here are some frequent car horror stories that might ruin your Undas journey, from flat tires to overheated motors, and how to avoid them with the right coolant and preventive maintenance.

The flat tire surprise

Image you’re driving to your hometown, and you only have a few kilometers away to reach your destination when you hear a loud thud. You stop and check your car, and it turns out your tire gave up. Whether it’s a nail on the road or a worn-out tire, this classic road mishap can throw off your entire schedule.

That is why it’s important to inspect your tires before traveling. Make sure they have proper air pressure and don’t forget to bring a spare tire, jack, and tools. A quick check before the trip can spare you hours of roadside trouble.

The lost case of dead batteries

After a short stopover, you return to your car, only to find that it won’t start. A weak or drained battery is a common culprit during long weekends when cars sit idle for days before the trip.

Have your battery checked before you travel and clean any corrosion around the terminals. Keeping your lights, dash cameras, and accessories off when parked helps extend battery life. This is a simple car maintenance tip every driver should practice, even on casual daily drives.

The broken brakes scare

You’re in heavy traffic when your brakes suddenly feel soft or unresponsive. It’s every driver’s nightmare, and it usually stems from neglected car maintenance which often includes old brake fluid, worn pads, or leaks in the system.

Schedule a quick check-up at your nearest car maintenance service centers or talyers. Brake health is non-negotiable, especially on long drives. Remember, it’s always better to prevent than repair.

The curious case of stalled engine

You’re halfway through your journey when the car suddenly stalls in the middle of the road. The reason? Old coolant or a system leak that caused the engine to overheat.

When you’re far from a mechanic, Prestone Coolant Ready To Use can be a real lifesaver. Formulated with 5X Superior Cooling Protection Guaranteed, it protects your engine from overheating, rust, corrosion, and boilover, ensuring long-lasting protection for key components like the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and aluminum parts.

Because it’s pre-diluted and ready to pour, there’s no need to add distilled water or mix. Just top up your coolant anywhere and you’re good to go. Siguradong compatible with all makes and models, even motorcycles, and meets ASTM standards for superior performance.

The overheating nightmare

Few things are as stressful as seeing steam rising from your hood in the middle of a long drive. Overheating often happens when drivers skip basic car maintenance or use incompatible coolant for car.

Before you hit the road, make sure your car’s engine is protected with Prestone Asian Coolant. Engineered with 5X Superior Cooling Action and Cor-Guard™ Technology, siguradong compatible with your car brand.

The Prestone Asian Coolant 1L is available in RED/PINK, BLUE, and GREEN color variants.

  • RED/PINK COOLANT: For all Toyota®, Lexus®, and Scion® vehicles, all years
  • BLUE COOLANT: For all Honda®, Nissan®, Subaru® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer
  • GREEN COOLANT: For all Isuzu®, Suzuki®, Hyundai®, KIA®, Mazda® Mitsubishi® vehicles, pre-2009 to 2011 & Newer

Turn your Undas trip into memories, not horror stories

As Filipinos gear up for the long Undas weekend, Prestone reminds every driver to take extra precautions before hitting the road. From checking your brakes to topping up your coolant, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe journey for you and your loved ones.

Don’t let auto issues turn into your actual nightmare this Undas. Prestone Asian Coolant and Prestone Coolant Ready to Use will keep your engine cool and are safe to use with the 5X greater protection your car needs.

Leading car dealerships and retail locations around the country, such as True Value, Handyman, Ace Hardware, Blade, and online via the official Prestone Coolants stores on Lazada and Shopee, carry both products. In order to guarantee product authenticity and vehicle safety, Prestone further advises clients to only buy from approved retailers.

Visit www.prestone.com.ph to find out more about Prestone’s whole product line and auto maintenance advice.

 

 

October 17, 2025 by