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Vic Vic Bautista

Travel

Japan Agenda: The Ultimate Travel Guide It’s time to cross Hokkaido off your list of must-see places to visit

Japan is undoubtedly a nation with limitless possibilities, praised and enjoyed for its dynamic cities, rich culture that endures, and customs that are valued by successive generations. Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, two highly regarded cities for both people and visitors, is a hidden gem and invaluable experience just waiting to be discovered. Where are they located? This is the Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint, a specially crafted and exclusive travel schedule created for those looking for unmatched luxury and the side of Japan that provides unrivaled opportunities for adventure. A customized journey replete with encounters with placid mountain vistas, peaceful historic villages, and communities undisturbed by the hustle and bustle of contemporary life is in store.

This first edition of Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint offers a cool, premium, hand-crafted tour around Japan’s northernmost area, Hokkaido, to escape the heat. Explore a region brimming with elegance and beauty in every corner, from breathtaking walks through the natural world to fine dining options.

Day 1: Arrival in Chitose


Photo from Japan Guide

Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport. You can get there by taking a connecting flight to Narita Airport or Haneda Airport from NAIA, then flying from Tokyo to Chitose via Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways,  Jetstar or other domestic flight options.

Afternoon: Take a breather from your long journey at the New Chitose Airport Onsen before checking into a premium hotel like Portom International Hokkaido. All of these locations are within the New Chitose Airport complex, making for an easy trip around.

Evening: Enjoy a delicately-crafted sushi dinner at Uogashi No, 52 Sushi.

Day 2: Lake Toya


Photo courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization

Morning: Take a private car to Lake Toya from Chitose. If you’re looking for accommodation nearby, there are some luxury hotels like The Windsor Hotel Toya.

Afternoon:  Breathe in the beautiful view of Lake Toya and its clear waters. You can even take the ropeway to see the lake from the top of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.

Evening: Witness the splendor in the sky with the fireworks show held every night from April to October, made more beautiful when viewed from a lakeside hotel or a boat.

Day 3: Sapporo


Photo courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization

Morning: Arrive in Sapporo Station and visit the JR Tower Observation Deck T38 to get a birds-eye view of the city’s charm.

Afternoon: Learn about the famous Sapporo Beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum. Around the area, you can also find imaginative art at the Sapporo Art Park and experience Hokkaido-style ramen in places such as Sapporo’s Ramen Alley and Ramen Dojo.

Evening: End the day with a shopping trip in Sapporo Factory, with many restaurants to choose from for a hearty dinner.

Day 4: Furano & Biei


Photo from Japan Guide

Morning: Via private car, take a day trip to the colorful Furano and Biei. From fields blanketed with a palette of flowers, to vibrant sky-blue ponds, it’s hard not to stop in awe of these painterly landscapes.

Afternoon: Stop by one of many restaurants and cafes at Biei while you enjoy more vivid views.

Evening: Furano wine is renowned all around Japan. Tour Furano for an exquisite wine tasting experience while learning about their craft as you observe their unique process.

Day 5: Chitose & Departure

Morning: Go on a last-minute shopping trip in AEON CHITOSE to get special pasalubong for the people at home. 

Afternoon: Have some soothing afternoon tea and filling breads and pastries at Doremo LeTAO before your flight home.


Photo from Doremo LeTAO website
 

Evening: Return to New Chitose airport and relax on the travel back home.

Additional Recommendations:

Hakodate: If you’re willing to go the extra mile, or situate yourself elsewhere in Hokkaido, enjoy a one-of-a-kind seafood breakfast at Hakodate.

Unkai Terrace: Witness a sunrise like no other at the Unkai Terrace. Located in Shimukappu, Hokkaido, stay at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu atop the enchanting sea of clouds.


Photo courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization

Yoichi: For whisky enthusiasts, visit the Japanese Premium Whisky Distillery for an exclusive look at how the famous Japanese Whisky is made.

Take this itinerary for a trip filled with amazing views, first-rate experiences, and life-changing interactions. Take a closer look at Hokkaido to uncover a destination with a unique charm.

Keep an eye out for the introduction of a brand-new, thrilling itinerary that is specifically designed for you next month. Come on fascinating excursions and artisanal adventures with Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel

Beauty, Lifestyle, News

In an effort to create a more sustainable future, the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) plants 500 trees


(L-R) CCIP’s Camille Buenaventura, Linda Yu, Jenny Nunez and Christine Reyes

At Mt. Purro, Antipolo Rizal, the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP), a leading body that represents the personal care and cosmetics sectors in the country, organized a tree-planting event with the theme “Rooted in Beauty, Committed to the Future.”

With the enthusiastic support of their member companies, CCIP was able to meet their 50th anniversary goal of planting 500 trees, and this event represents an important milestone in that mission. Representatives from 98 member companies participated in the active tree planting event.

Among the notable attendees were well-known local clean beauty firms such as Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Ellana Cosmetics, and Pili Ani.

Well-known personal care companies like Biogenic Alcohol, Splash Wipro, Personal Collection, and Bevi Manufacturing Inc. also joined the initiative. Leaders in the manufacturing industry such as DJM Corporation, Connell Caldic, Bestpak, and Zizmore, among many others, lent their support as well.

CCIP’s vice president for CSR, Linda Yu of Amchem, expressed hope that this activity would inspire a new generation to advocate for sustainability and environmental protection. “These 500 tree seedlings are just the beginning,” Yu said. “We foresee a new era where various companies in the industry join hands to create a better world for the future!”

Ever Bilena, a CCIP member company, echoed this sentiment. Denice Sy, Ever Bilena’s chief sales & marketing officer, revealed the company’s aspiration to become a net zero company. “This year, we are on track to achieve our recovery and plastic footprint offset goal of 40%,” Sy shared.

One strong deed that has enormous environmental effects is planting trees. In addition to being visually pleasing, trees are essential in the fight against climate change because they absorb carbon dioxide, one of the main greenhouse gases.


Other member companies’ representatives actively participating in the
orientation of tree planting event

Tree planting is a method to assure the sustainability of the very materials that go into the products we love and give back to the environment in the context of the beauty business, which heavily depends on natural resources.

A more sustainable future for the industry and the environment is made possible by this initiative by CCIP and its members.

Lifestyle, Sports

Vermosa opens its Athlete’s House, advancing its goal to assist PH Sports


[L-R] Ayala Land Estates Senior Project Development Head Mayi Rodriguez, Ayala Land Estates Head Chris Maglanoc, Imus City Administrator Tito Monzon, Ayala Corp. Managing Director and Corporate Resources Head Francisco Milan, Ayala Foundation President Tony Lambino
 

At the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub inside Vermosa Estate in Imus, Cavite, a Athlete’s House has opened with the goal of improving the training of elite national athletes who are honing their abilities for national and international tournaments.

On July 10, the 30-room athletes’ housing, situated on the expansive Sports Hub premises of the 752-hectare Ayala Land estate, was formally opened. Shortly thereafter, the Athletics Center Dugout’s groundbreaking ceremony was held.

One of only three football pitches in the nation with a valid FIFA certification, the Athlete’s House is conveniently located near the various sports facilities of the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub. These facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool that meets FINA standards and has a warm-up area, an IAAF-certified 400-meter track oval, a multi-sport open field, and an indoor fitness center with a sports science laboratory.

Designed with the Filipino athlete in mind, room configurations are built to suit a team seeking a comfortable and convenient home base for training or a family looking for an active getaway. The bathrooms have a three-way feature to enable three persons to use the shower, toilet, and vanity area simultaneously. There are other offers such as a marketplace, open bar and lounge that guests will enjoy. The best part is that the training facilities and gym are just a few meters away.

The Athletics’ Center Dugout meanwhile is the only missing piece to the FIFA Certified football field that will turn the AVSH grounds into a busy competition venue for both professional and amateur leagues. It is projected for completion in the first quarter of 2025. The facility features locker rooms for playing teams, a dedicated room for officials and referees, a room for media partners, and an open deck for VIP guests with panoramic views of the field and track. AVSH also improves spectator experience by investing on expansive canopies to better protect spectators from the weather.

The professionally managed Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub has long been intended to be the premier training ground of amateur and professional athletes and the preferred venue for national and international sports events in the Philippines.

Among the athletes supported by Ayala Corp. are two-time Olympic swimmer Jasmine Alkhaldi; gold-medal archer Andrea Robles; youngest nationally ranked karateka Prince Alejo; world-ranked archer and SEAG medalist Pia Bidaure; world-ranked archer Abby Bidaure; Philippines’ top foil fencer Nat Perez; world-ranked fencer Noel Jose and Filipino Olympian pole vaulter EJ Obiena, currently ranked second in the world.

Recently, Vermosa also opened its facilities to the young athletes of Takbo Kabitenyo, a non-profit organization for young runners from Cavite who aspire to become national athletes one day.

“The formal inauguration of the Athlete’s House is a testament of Vermosa’s ongoing commitment to support Philippine sports and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for all,” said Moses John (MJ) Aragones, Project Development Manager of Ayala Land Estates, Inc.

National sports associations including the Philippine Athletic and Track and Field Association, Philippine Rugby Football Union, and Triathlon Association of the Philippines regularly train at the Ayala Vermosa Sports Hub (AVSH). AVSH has a pay-per-use facility and is accessible to the general public. By making a reservation on the hotline 09674055782, anyone can train there.

Lifestyle, News

Nearly two thousand generals and officers support the Querubin Senate Run, including former PNP and AFP chiefs

Former Chiefs of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) from the Arroyo, Aquino, Duterte, and Marcos administrations, along with nearly two thousand former officers, personnel, and generals, have formally endorsed Ariel Querubin’s candidacy for the Senate on July 8 at the Filipino Club.

The most recognized soldier in Philippine history, retired colonel Ariel Querubin is well-known for his amazing bravery and eternal devotion to his nation. Querubin is a candidate that can unite people and bridge different political viewpoints because of his remarkable military career and dedication to public service. He is a recipient of the Medal of Valor, the highest military award for extraordinary bravery and self-sacrifice.

With the retired colonel Ariel Querubin

I myself recognize him and his good works for our nation; It is such a great privilege to witness the rest of his former colleagues support and acknowledge all his good work. They are now also rooting for him for the next election this coming 2025 for the Senate place, as he promises he will help combat the corruption and other  other social issues in our country. He now once again wants to prove himself and his love for our country through serving the people.

In his remarks, Querubin recognized Club Filipino’s historical significance as the location of numerous pivotal moments in the history of the country. Recalling significant occasions like Martial Law, the EDSA revolutions, several coups, and the administrations of Marcos to Marcos Jr., the retired colonel offered his reflections on the varied political trajectories of individuals in present.

“Truth be told, all of us here stood on different sides in many pivotal moments of our nation’s history,” Querubin noted.“And yet, we gather here today not as allies of the many political factions but as brothers in arms who have once and always will put our lives for our children, families, and fellow Filipinos. We stand united in our service to the Philippines, in our service to God.”

In 2025, Querubin accepted the responsibility of serving the country once more by running for the Senate and emphasizing the urgent need to confront inflation, poverty, and corruption. In addition, the former colonel underlined how critical it is to protect the nation’s sovereignty from both external and internal threats.

“We find ourselves at a crossroads,” Querubin stated. “The bullying in the West Philippine Sea threatens our sovereignty, while the proliferation of illegal POGOs brings social issues that affect our communities. And the call for the modernization of our military – to secure our nation and uphold our sovereignty with the respect it deserves – is nothing short of urgent and vital for our survival as a free nation.”

Querubin also emphasized the necessity of bolstering the nationalism and selflessness of the Filipino people.

“My vision is a nation of heroes. Isang bayang handang magsakripisyo at kayang ipaglaban ang Pilipino mula sa mga mang-aapi.”

Food, News

Coca-Cola PH has opened additional centers to offer entrepreneurship skills, in an effort to further empower micro-retailers


Coca-Cola Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Tagum andthe Tagum City Council of Women Foundation launched the iSTAR Center for Entrepreneurship in Davao del Norte on July 4, 2024.

With the opening of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) under the digital Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources (iSTAR) program in seven important areas, Coca-Cola Philippines hopes to empower more micro-entrepreneurs across the country. The CFEs—which are situated in the cities of Davao del Norte, Cagayan de Oro, Taguig City, Nueva Ecija, Cebu, Bacolod City, and Camarines Sur—will function as long-term centers that provide small business owners with financial support, training, and mentorship.

Through the use of digital platforms, the iSTAR program aims to empower individuals with entrepreneurship and provide them with the skills they need to create and run retail enterprises.

“At Coca-Cola Philippines, we are committed to supporting the entrepreneurial spirit and unlocking the potential of aspiring entrepreneurs. The launch of the iSTAR Centers for Entrepreneurship is a testament to our dedication to foster economic growth and sustainable development at the community level,” said Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario during the launch of the CFE in Tagum, Davao del Norte.

The program is the result of a public-private partnership between the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Coca-Cola Philippines. This collaboration supports Coca-Cola Philippines’ broader economic empowerment strategy to break the cycle of generational poverty.

For more than a decade, this partnership has expanded with seven regional microfinance and non-governmental institutions across the country, making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program.

iSTAR aims to address key barriers that hinder the development of women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to training, resources, and mentorship. Through its expanded digital platform, iSTAR has empowered over 150,000 micro-entrepreneurs, surpassing its 2025 target of 100,000 graduates. Earlier this year, the program was showcased at the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the UN Headquarters in New York.


Coca-Cola Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Tagum, and partner CSOs and microfinance institutions with the over 800 iSTAR graduates in Davao del Norte

“These CFEs represent hope, opportunity, and the collective effort of our partners like TESDA and the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation Inc., whose dedication is instrumental in making this initiative a reality. Together, with a shared vision of economic empowerment, we can bridge existing gaps and create a truly inclusive environment where micro-entrepreneurship can thrive,” added del Rosario.

TESDA also acknowledges how the iSTAR program helps bridge the digital divide among micro and small businesses. “The Philippines is lagging behind in digitalization, but with Coca-Cola Philippines introducing this digital platform to educate and empower women, we are heading in the right direction,” said TESDA Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo Colambo.

Building a network of sustainable support

The CFEs represent a strategic expansion of the iSTAR Program by establishing regional hubs that aim to provide business development, training, and support to micro-entrepreneurs.


Students of iSTAR during a learning session at the Center for Entrepreneurship in Tagum City

The hubs will be managed by a network of trusted partners, including microfinance institutions, cooperatives, civil society organizations, and the local government units of the hubs’ locations. This initiative reinforces Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to building the capacity of Filipinos in entrepreneurship and empowering them through the strategic use of digital platforms and the fostering of business networks.

“When the CFE was offered to us at the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation (TCCWFI), we accepted it with open arms, without hesitation. We immediately saw the need for it, not just in our area, but throughout Mindanao. We are grateful to the City Government of Tagum and Coca-Cola Philippines for bringing this initiative to our city,” said TCCWFI President Alma Uy.

Scaling impact with technology

The iSTAR Program and CFEs are among Coca-Cola Philippines’ projects that seek to leverage technology to amplify the reach and impact of its support for micro-retailers. It’s  similar to the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle program, which utilizes innovative methods to promote the circularity of plastic packaging.

By assisting in the conversion of their sari-sari stores and carinderias into recyclable PET bottle collection points, TEM, in partnership with the Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), hopes to assist micro-retailers in their role as frontline environmental advocates. Customers are urged to discard their plastic bottles since they are more visible and close to these drop-off containers. By gathering bottles, micro-retailers can accrue environmental points that they can exchange for merchandise and rewards, enhancing their bottom line.

Graduates of the iSTAR program receive assistance in joining the Coca-Cola Philippines network of TEM partners, enabling them to expand their enterprises and encourage their local communities to maintain clean environments.

Visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub to find out more about the company’s community outreach programs.

Entertainment

A innovative platform for gaming entertainment allows you to play with a legendary game show host

Playmate Leisure Solutions Corporation (PLSC), the company behind PlayTime, the nation’s fastest-growing 24/7 online gaming entertainment platform, has just raised the stakes for the online gaming market.

With the largest gaming selection of its kind—more than 2,500 games—PlayTime provides gamers with an unmatched level of excitement.

The one and only Vic “Bossing” Sotto was formally recognized by PlayTime as the brand’s official sponsor, adding even more incredible flair to the already incredible gaming experience. Along with his decades-long career as an actor, comedian, and host, gaming excitement has come to be associated with his name. Vic Sotto, for his part, says, “It is an honor to represent PlayTime and support its goal to spread happiness and fun to Filipinos every day, anytime, all the time,” expressing his enthusiasm and gratitude.

With Bossing on board, PlayTime brings the same high stakes excitement to its 10 million players. For starters, newcomers receive a free bonus worth Php 4,520. Players are guaranteed the highest daily rebates/cashback, which is at least 0.1% higher than all other licensed platforms.

Players can easily access the game via GCash, Maya, or by visiting www.playtime.ph.

Winning on PlayTime is also the most rewarding experience—cashout is paid out in 10 minutes, with a Php1,000 guarantee for any delayed orders.

PlayTime announced its collaboration with Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Incorporated (BPCI) as a key sponsor of the forthcoming 60th Binibining Pilipinas pageant, thus extending its influence outside the gaming industry.

With PlayTime, you can now enjoy a cutting-edge gaming experience where every minute is loaded with excitement and every peso gets you one step closer to winning big and earning more.

Launched in 2024, PlayTime is a premier online gaming entertainment platform by Playmate Leisure Solutions Corporation (PLSC), licensed by PAGCOR. With over 2,500 games and 10 million users, PlayTime offers the highest cashback and fastest cashouts in the Philippines.

Visit www.playtime.ph for more information.

Food, Lifestyle

Foodpanda and Coca-Cola collaborate to refresh Ka-pandas

Coca-Cola Philippines and foodpanda’s grocery delivery division, pandamart, have partnered to provide complimentary refreshments to independent delivery partners. This unique project is timed to coincide with Father’s Day, giving Ka-panDADs—who work tirelessly to make sure that food and grocery orders get to clients on time—a refreshing gift.

All Ka-panda delivery partners with active pandamart orders will receive free bottled drinks starting on June 16. In order to keep Ka-panda delivery partners hydrated and motivated while they go about their regular routes, Ka-panda has created the “Ka-panda Father’s Day Treat.”

The first leg kicked off at the pandamart warehouse in Pasig. Delivery partners expressed their gratitude as they received free drinks, sharing stories of how this simple treat makes a big difference in their delivery routines.

“Talagang doble kayod kami para sa pamilya, kaya nakakatuwang may libreng drinks din kami para ma-refresh naman sa bawat biyahe. Nakakataba ng puso na naaalala rin pala yung hirap naming mga delivery partners sa daan,” shared Ferdinand Cruz, a Ka-panda for four years now.

foodpanda Philippines Head of Category and Commercial Samantha Sy shared that Ka-panda delivery partners from their service provider, Delivery Hero Logistics Philippines, deserve this small token of appreciation for their hard work. “This treat is not only for fathers but also those who serve as breadwinners of their family, working incredibly hard to provide for their needs. This is our way of saying thank you for their dedication and perseverance. We’re also grateful to our reliable partner, Coca-Cola Philippines, for offering their resources to make this happen.”

Coca-Cola also echoed these sentiments. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Ka-panda delivery partners for their relentless dedication and hard work. We hope that by offering these complimentary refreshments, we can make their day a bit easier and show our appreciation for the convenience they bring into our lives,” said a representative from Coca-Cola Philippines.

The cooperation between foodpanda and Coca-Cola highlights the companies’ dedication to the welfare of delivery partners, making sure they understand how vital it is to them to bring groceries and food to clients. It is anticipated that hundreds of delivery partners will gain from the project.

To guarantee that more delivery partners can take advantage of this cool treat, the program will also be extended to other pandamart warehouses in Metro Manila..

For more information, visit www.foodpanda.ph.

How it works:

Through the foodpanda website or via the new iOS and Android apps, customers can enter their address and view a curated list of restaurants and shops serving their neighborhood. Once they have found their choice, they can place an order in the comfort of their home or office, paying online through foodpanda’s secure platform or via cash-on-delivery The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant or shop, picked up by the foodpanda delivery partner and delivered straight to their doorstep.

Follow us on:

Facebook: foodpandaphilippines
Twitter: foodpanda_ph
Instagram: foodpanda_ph

Food

Everything you need to know about your preferred chicken dish and cooking method in honor of National Fried Chicken Day!

Celebrating Ajinomoto’s Crispy Fry®’s 20th Anniversary

This type of roasted chicken has spread over the globe since it’s a universally cherished “go-to” dish. Fried Chicken is unquestionably a cuisine that everyone is familiar with, from changes in its preparation to the flavorings added to the basic yet quite recognizable dish to the presentation of this meal.

This National Fried Chicken Day offers an excellent chance to learn more about the diverse origins and long history of this beloved meal. The origins of fried chicken can be found in Europe during the Middle Ages, and in the 18th century, Scottish immigrants brought their frying methods to the Americas. Numerous iterations of this recipe have been distributed since then. To improve the flavor of the traditional dish, a range of spices and herbs have been added in addition to just frying the chicken meat.

Fried chicken has also been adapted in various cultures worldwide. The Koreans cook their chicken by double-frying the meat and then later dipping it in sweet and spicy sauces. The Japanese karaage, on the other hand, features marinated chicken pieces covered in potato starch that has light and crispy textures. The style found in Indonesia is fried chicken called ayam goreng, where the chicken is deeply marinated in local spices. Later on, distinct versions were made including the Southern Fried Chicken with its crispy coating and juicy meat marinated in buttermilk and spices. Even fried chicken found its pair, with the dish called chicken & waffles, wherein fried chicken is served with golden waffles with syrup complementing the savory experience.

Fried chicken even became more popular globally with the rise of fast-food chains, having their own take on the comfort-giving dish that truly made everyone find their perfect and favorite fried chicken of choice. Some people even became loyal to one fast food chain because of their version of fried chicken.

This July, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) celebrates the 20th anniversary of Crispy Fry ́®, and just like the many variations of fried chicken that exists all over the world, APC has made sure that there’s one variant of Crispy Fry ́® fit for everybody’s taste.

Crispy Fry® Garlic is made with a more delicious, special blend of flour, starch, and seasoning, for those who ought to enjoy a more garlic-y flavor to their fried chicken, elevating the experience of having that crispy-sarap fried chicken in every bite. The Crispy Fry® Spicy variation is perfect for those who want that right amount of kick of heat. Truly a spicy-food lovers’ partner, this flavor is indeed fiery in all the right ways. Finally, the Crispy Fry® Original flavor is one that is dear to the Filipino household which you most probably would find in the cupboards of Pinoy home, waiting to be used, on-call, on-standby for all the best reasons. This product could easily make one receive compliments about their cooking; while also maintaining that home-y and original tasting recipe at home you yearn for after a long day at work.

No matter how many different kinds of fried chicken there are in the world, a Filipino household can always tell when fried chicken is made with Crispy Fry® because most of the people who use this product have grown up with it and understand that it’s always best to add Crispy Fry® to fried chicken dishes, especially when you’re cooking for a large group of people or a barkada. Given the continued market support for Crispy Fry®,

APC finds National Fried Chicken Day to be a significant occasion.Somehow, it is general knowledge in the Philippines that by adding this unique ingredient to a fried chicken dish will help everything fall into place, regardless of if you know your ways around the kitchen or not! APC wishes everyone a Happy National Fried Chicken Day! Is that crispy-sarap bite we can smell and hear sizzling in oil the fried chicken we’re about to serve you?

To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com. 

Beauty

Ever Bilena Serum Tinted Lip Gloss combines hydration with high shine

This lip gloss is about more than simply shine (though it has enough of that), it’s about embracing bold but comfortable tones that make you feel effortlessly you, much like the multi-talented Kaila Estrada.

Yes, Ever Bilena’s new muse is the contemporary breakout actress that has been dominating your TikTok FYPs with her excellent acting abilities! This time, she shows off her bright, gorgeous lips in Ever Bilena’s new Tinted Lip Gloss Campaign!

Like Ever Bilena, this lip gloss is all about having fun while also being utilitarian. Denice Sy, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, explains, “We know you’re busy, so we packed it with nourishing serums like Vitamin E and Hyaluronic Acid to keep your lips kissably soft all day!”

Speaking of shades, EB’s new line has seven juicy options to choose from:

  • Etheral: The perfect “no-makeup” makeup pink.
  • Fandango: A rosy mauve for a touch of flirty.
  • Punch: A true coral pink that packs a punch (of color, that is).
  • Toast of New York: Feeling bold? This brick red is your jam.
  • Stunner: Warm, muted pink with a touch of shimmer for extra wow.
  • Honeymoon Glow (our best-seller!): A toasted papaya with a shimmer that’s perfect for summer nights.
  • Melon: Craving a nudish peach finish? This is your go-to.

Do you miss the trend of lip gloss? And so are we! This lip gloss isn’t the gooey, sticky stuff from before. The Serum Tinted Lip Gloss by Ever Bilena is the ideal combination of lip care, high-shine color, and comfortable wear. It gives your lips the ideal personality boost!

On June 15, Ever Bilena Serum Tinted Lip Gloss (Php 225) will only be sold on Tiktok. From June 26 onward, it will also be accessible on other e-commerce sites including Shopee and Lazada! This gloss is also available in physical places across the country, including Watsons, SM Beauty Department places, Robinsons Department Stores, and other top department stores!

Lifestyle

Time magazine and Statista have rated Schneider Electric as the world’s most sustainable firm

Schneider Electric, a pioneer in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has been named the “World’s Most Sustainable Companies for 2024” by Time magazine and Statista. This distinction highlights Schneider Electric’s aggressive aims for reducing its own emissions, as well as the company’s commitment to assisting its customers in becoming more energy efficient and lowering their emissions.

Time and Statista both emphasized Schneider Electric’s technology expertise as well as the  Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) initiative. This transformative program drives and monitors the company’s progress toward global sustainability targets from 2021 to 2025, contributing to six long-term commitments that address all environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements. Among this success, the company helped clients cut their carbon emissions, saving and avoiding 553 million tonnes of CO2 since 2018. The corporation has also made major strides toward changing its own supply chain. Carbon emissions from Schneider Electric’s top 1,000 suppliers have decreased by 27% since the program’s inception, with 21% of the company’s most strategic supply chain partners meeting Schneider Electric’s decent work requirements.

“We are incredibly honored to be recognized as the world’s most sustainable company,” said Peter Herweck, CEO of Schneider Electric. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainability, which is embedded in everything we do. We consider the environment, society, and good governance in our decisions and daily operations. That’s why we’re pushing hard to make even more progress on our sustainability goals and ensure everyone contributes to creating a positive and enduring impact”.

Schneider Electric was also recently included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for the 13th consecutive year, ranked #1 in its industry and secured its place in the Europe index. This achievement reflects its strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, with sustainability at the core of its strategy.

Time and Statista utilized a comprehensive, multi-stage system to determine the world’s most sustainable firms in 2024. The procedure began with a list of over 5,000 of the world’s biggest and most powerful corporations. Following a four-stage review, the final ranking took into account external sustainability ratings and commitments, company reporting standards, and environmental and social performance indicators. This comprehensive methodology resulted in a ranking of 500 companies from 30+ countries.