Blending hip-hop with rock music influences, the prolific songwriter/producer teams up with his brother Josue on this astounding new jam
PABLO from SB19 is back with another hit!
The new song “DETERMINADO,” the Filipino singer-songwriter/producer’s first release under Sony Music Entertainment this year, breaks the Sboundaries between hip-hop and rock.
The genre-bending single, which was produced by his brother Josue, maintains the distinctive characteristics of the La Luna act as an artist who is at ease with his own identity and sonic direction while pushing experimentation to the limit.
Speaking highly of his favorite partner, PABLO lauded Josue for bringing innovative ideas to the track during its incubation phase and letting him shine with a strong producing style that isn’t limited by trends.
“We’re a team, we always work hand in hand, always learning from each other, and drawing inspiration back and forth,” said the multi-talented soloist. “We grew up in the same environment so we just vibe and connect easily.”
Integrating dense instrumentation with gloomy synths and booming, confrontational beats, “DETERMINADO” not only impresses listeners with its scale and ambition but also reveals a different side of the SB19 vocalist and main rapper: someone who finds moments of vulnerability and strength in the face of chaos. In the words of PABLO himself, “It’s a realization when we find the courage to actually do what we want, and what kind of artist we aspire to be. We are confronting our fears and roadblocks, but still moving forward.”
Determined to jumpstart a new phase in his career, PABLO is more confident in his undertaking as a musician, going to a sonic space that remains untouched even by his contemporaries and peers.
He adds, “Our music is not just the output; it’s a collective of all the micro-things that happen behind the scenes and all throughout the process. We are more assertive now. Also, this song marks a departure from our previous releases; it’s a blend of hip-hop and rock genres.”
Aside from “DETERMINADO,” PABLO is also gearing up for a more exciting 2024. He’s looking into dropping more solo releases apart from his work with SB19, and possibly a debut album to be released soon.
As the prolific artist puts it, “Again, going back to the song title, we are indeed on this journey. I have so many things planned to do in 2024, and definitely one of those is to release my own album.”
“DETERMINADO”by PABLO is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.
In 2022, a family of four cat owners made the decision to create an online platform so that every Filipino home could have access to premium lifestyle, home care, and pet care products. Motivated by their enthusiasm for business and their love for their kitties, the family wanted Mo & Bear PH to be the place where you go to find high-quality goods that support sustainability, wellness, and health.
“We wanted to build a network of manufacturers, suppliers and distributors whose products and services meet our standards of quality, safety and value,” shared Bernard C. Suiza, President of Azius Ventures Corporation, at their brand and product launch held at Yebisu Ramen Daang Hari in Bacoor, Cavite.
Purr Delight, a line of wet cat food manufactured by Mo & Bear PH, is available in two flavors: tuna in jelly and tuna in moringa. This is the first wet cat food with moringa included in the nation.
When compared to other brands on the market, Purr Delight is a healthier choice because it is made with real tuna flakes and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or extenders. It is locally made, responsibly sourced, and has the Bureau of Animal Industry’s certification. Most importantly, though, is that cats have tested and approved this medicine.
Happy Life Organics is another distinctly Filipino brand that is distributed by Mo & Bear PH. Happy Life Waterless Shampoo, Happy Life Hand Gel Sanitizer, Happy Life Shampoo and Conditioner, Happy Life Pet Neem Soap, and many more items are available from Happy Life. Their broad variety of items are all-natural and eco-friendly, making them a fantastic fit for the platform.
Mo & Bear also carries Archies footwear, the world’s “comfiest” flip-flops. Designed by physical therapist Daniel Jones, Archies Arch Support Thongs feature a built-in patented arch support made of a specialized memory foam footbed that cradles and molds to your feet. So now your traditional flip-flops can give you all the benefits of orthotic footwear.
“We are committed to quality and customer satisfaction. Every item is handpicked, tested and vetted to guarantee its quality and reliability,” Bernard Suiza said.
Daughter Trish Suiza emphasized, “All of the products that we put on the platform are products we are excited to use ourselves.”
Galderma Execom (from left to right: Khen Kon- Head of Medical JPAC, Barby Razon-Buenaventura- Brand Manager Philippines, Jade Ponoc, Rajeev Chavda-Head of Global Medical Affairs – Prescription, Luke Lee- JPAC Business Unit Head- Prescription, Ferdinand Roxas- General Manager, Philippines)
You’re not the only one who has ever felt self-conscious about having acne! Did you know that acne is the most frequent skin ailment in the Philippines? Over 17 million people, both young and elderly, are impacted. Acne can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Particularly among teenagers, it can have an effect on relationships, happiness, and self-worth.
According to clinical research, over 50% of individuals with facial acne also had acne on their shoulders, backs, and chest. Patients spend time and money on goods for therapy and good hygiene. The good news is that acne can be resolved with the right care and early intervention.
Patients should consult a board-certified dermatologist for safe and efficient prescription treatments, such as the most recent advancement in retinoid therapy—trifarotene cream.
For acne on the face, shoulders, and back, this novel topical single-agent retinoid cream has been shown to be both safe and effective. The retinoid ingredient found in trifarotene cream helps the skin replace its old skin cells more quickly, thereby removing the old cells and avoiding the formation of new pimples. Trifarotene reduces inflammation and targets the key variables that produce acne by selectively binding to the most common receptor in the skin, the retinoic acid receptor gamma (RAR-y).
Trifarotene is the first new retinoid molecule to receive FDA approval for treating acne in over 25 years. It offers both dermatologists and acne patients a safe and effective prescription acne medication for the face, back, chest, and shoulders. Galderma, a world leader in developing innovative and safe dermatologist-approved skincare solutions, now brings Trifarotene to the Philippines market. The same company gave the world well-loved brands like Cetaphil, Benzac, and Restylane, among many others. With the addition of Trifarotene to its portfolio, the company further cements its claim as one of the most innovative dermatologist-recommended skincare-focused companies in the world today.
Only properly licensed medical professionals, mostly dermatologists, may prescribe trifarotene, which is advised for patients 12 years of age and above.
For more information, please visit www.galderma.com.
Allianz PNB Life and Konsulta MD MOA Signing at Allianz PNB Life Head Office in Makati represented by (from left to right): Marjowyn Vito (Head of Business Development, Allianz PNB Life), Leonardo Tan Jr. (Chief Product Provider Officer, Allianz PNB Life), Joseph Gross (President and Chief Executive Officer, Allianz PNB Life), Cholo Tagaysay (Chief Executive Officer, KonsultaMD), Dr. Chelsea Elizabeth Samson (Chief Business and Medical Affairs Officer, KonsultaMD)
Maintaining a worry-free, health-conscious lifestyle is still crucial, proving the saying “health is wealth” to be true. Acknowledging this necessity, Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) forged a strategic alliance with KonsultaMD to provide free medical teleconsultations to Filipinos.
Through this collaboration, more Filipinos will have access to the cutting-edge telemedicine service offered by KonsultaMD, which provides professional guidance and diagnosis from recognized medical specialists anytime, anywhere. This innovative healthcare solution is designed to satisfy the changing needs of contemporary consumers.
This ground-breaking partnership demonstrates AZPNBL’s commitment to implementing cutting-edge healthcare solutions for its clients. Their goal is to make Filipinos aware of the importance of health insurance and teleconsultation, as well as the advantages of having access to healthcare for their mental well-being.
“By integrating advanced telemedicine solutions into our programs, Allianz demonstrates a commitment to providing not only financial security but also leveraging technology to enhance the overall well-being of customers. It aligns with the company’s goal of delivering innovative solutions and services that cater to the ever-changing needs of our clients. Through our partnership with KonsultaMD, clients can have access to expert medical care even in the comfort of their homes. With convenient access to healthcare, they will have fewer worries, so they can focus on living their lives to the fullest. With expert advice, they will better manage their lifestyles and practice mindfulness in caring for themselves. This will also help them better plan their future with their families,” says Leo Tan, Jr., Allianz’s Chief Product Provider Officer.
Additionally, KonsultaMD is a component of Allianz Healthbox, a program created especially for AZPNBL clients that fulfills all of their demands in terms of lifestyle, wellness, and healthcare at one convenient location. Customers of Allianz PNB Life are eligible to receive exclusive benefits and freebies from Allianz Healthbox partners. These partners include FREE in-clinic consultations from MyHealth, FREE gym access from Anytime Fitness, FREE nutrition counseling from Daily’s Diet, FREE optical care from Vision Express and Asian Eye Institute, and many more.
Visit www.allianzpnblife.ph/healthbox or get in touch with your Life Changer for additional information about Allianz Healthbox.
Find out more at allianzpnblife.ph or @allianzpnblifeofficial on Facebook.
Schneider Electric hosted a tour in its Cavite Smart Factory to demonstrate its smart manufacturing solutions to its partners from the public sector and other stakeholders. (L-R): Yellapa Thimmanna, Business Finance Senior GM of APC, Schneider Electric’s flagship brand, Ejie Tauto-an, Logistics Director of APC, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, Chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means, Ricardo Domingo Jr., Digital Transformations Leader of Schneider Electric Philippines, and Atty. Norman Roland Ocana III, Head of Government Affairs of Schneider Electric Philippines
Leading company in energy management and digital automation, Schneider Electric, reiterates its goal to support local manufacturing’s digital transformation by 2024
The chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means, Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian, was recently invited to Schneider Electric’s Cavite Smart Factory. The business showed Senator Win Gatchalian around their cutting edge plant, which is setting the standard for smart manufacturing in the Philippines.
The factory uses its own EcostruxureTM technology to demonstrate its creative end-to-end manufacturing solutions. With the use of the company’s patented technology, enterprises can combine a variety of assets, sensors, and other items into an open IoT architecture and software platform by utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT). Businesses can benefit from improved agility, asset performance management, cybersecurity, and energy efficiency through this. The World Economic Forum has acknowledged Schneider Electric Smart Factories as trailblazers in the transformation of global manufacturing operations towards increased productivity and efficiency through sustainable practices.
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian explored Schneider Electric’s Smart Factory in Cavite to look into potential digital solutions that can drive sustainability for the manufacturing sector in the Philippines.
“At Schneider Electric, we remain committed to bringing global solutions to support local industries and manufacturers. Our focus this year is to strengthen our partnerships and harness the power of digitalization and efficiency to build a more sustainable tomorrow for all,” shares Atty. Norman Roland Ocana III, Head of Government Affairs of Schneider Electric Philippines.
Schneider Electric is also stepping up its partnership with PEZA in order to support the corporate sector’s delivery of clever and sustainable solutions. This will assist in elevating the nation to the forefront of innovation and industrial digitization. In November 2023, Schneider Electric and PEZA initiated the Go Ecozone forum series, which aims to inform locators registered with PEZA about the benefits of the green economy. Additionally, it gives the industrial sector a forum to exchange ideas and ask PEZA for assistance in achieving their transformational objectives.
“We will continue to collaborate with the government to deliver cutting-edge, sustainable solutions to power up industries and help boost the economy,” Ocana adds.
HIROYUKI SAWANO PHOTO: DOWNLOAD TOMORROW X TOGETHER PHOTO: DOWNLOAD PLEASE USE CREDIT: (P)&(C) BIGHIT MUSIC
“LEveL,” a new single from renowned composer HIROYUKI SAWANO’s vocal project SawanoHiroyuki[nZk] featuring TOMORROW X TOGETHER, a global sensation in K-pop, has been released by SACRA MUSIC.
The opening theme for the recently released TV cartoon SOLO LEVELING is a track by Sawano with a unique rhythm and catchy sound. TOMORROW x TOGETHER provide guest vocals that perfectly compliment the series’ intense, action-packed plot.
Sawano, who is well-known for his musical compositions for several anime series, TV dramas, and motion pictures, such as Attack on Titan, Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash, and Promare, was assigned to compose the opening theme for Solo Leveling in addition to the series’ original soundtrack music. The highly anticipated series, which debuted globally this weekend, is based on the internationally successful Korean novel and comic of the same name (Original Work: DUBU (REDICE STUDIO), Chugong, h-goon [D&C Webtoon Biz.]).
“I feel very honored to produce the music for Solo Leveling and also the main theme as SawanoHiroyuki[nZk],” remarks singer-songwriter HIROYUKI SAWANO about the song. Their variety of vocal styles added a groove and edge to the music, and I was able to work feeling their abilities on hand. I am grateful for the chance to collaborate with TOMORROW X TOGETHER. I truly hope that people will like the anime together with my music because it is a work that I am looking forward to viewing as a TV viewer myself.
“LEveL expresses the strength of the main character with its dark and heavy feeling,” TOMORROW X TOGETHER continues. Please listen to our music and the anime repeatedly as it has a unique and enticing beat that really sticks in your head.
TOMORROW X TOGETHER add, “LEveL expresses the main character’s strength with its dark and heavy feeling. Its distinctive and addictive rhythm really sticks to your head once you hear it, so please enjoy our song over and over along with the anime.”
WATCH A COMMENT VIDEO FROM TOMORROW X TOGETHER HERE
Mang Inasal, the grill expert from the Philippines, has been quite active on digital platforms over the last two years. Its official hashtag, #ILoveMangInasal, has received 315 million views on TikTok and over 128,000 shares on Facebook, and counting!
Was Mang Inasal the one who brought it about, one may wonder? No, not totally.
The beginning of MICC
The Mang Inasal Creators’ Circle (MICC) was established in March of 2022.
MICC was founded to bring together actual brand ambassadors and assist their influencer journey by including them in campaigns that allowed them to enjoy the Unli-Saya experience and Ihaw-Sarap food of Mang Inasal. Its thirty members are foodies and mommy nano-influencers who adore Mang Inasal.
“MICC started as an experiment because we wanted to try out better ways to promote Mang Inasal on social media,” shared Mang Inasal Digital and Public Relations Head, RJ Jabeguero-Rodillo. “Then during the first campaign, we saw that there’s promise in it as the MICCs’ posts looked and sounded so natural that netizens found them authentic and relatable. And the selection was perfect because MICC members are real loyal Mang Inasal patrons.”
IHAWtastic content co-creation
The content creator is given a short brief that allows them to publish about the campaign in any way they see fit. Influencers are the ones who work on the magic of their materials in a way that achieves the goals while being in line with their personalities and lifestyles, in addition to providing important messages, reminders about what to highlight in their photos and videos, and coordination with the stores for the products that Mang Inasal takes care of.
By 2023, the MICC had grown to over 160 members, an exponential growth from its original membership of thirty. The TikTokerists and Gen Zs are a new group of content makers that emerged as a result of this expansion in the community. With more than 30 ads planned for 2023, young people, mothers, and foodies can all easily share with their 29 million followers how much they love Mang Inasal.
In addition to collaborating with some of the largest content creators in the area, such as Simon Javier of Metro Manila, Mommy Hieds and Georgeous George of North Luzon, Mommy Diaries PH of South Luzon, Mortejo Twins, and Zamboanga Guide of Visayas and Mindanao, the community has been able to access a wide variety of content creators as MICC grows.
“We really appreciate how MICC has added a new spark to how we tell our brand story,” said Ed Timbungco, Mang Inasal Public Relations Manager. “It is a mutually beneficial partnership that has allowed Mang Inasal to help expand the followers of its partner content creators, while the MICCs enrich the Brand’s ways to share its campaigns to more people across the country. We are all kindred spirits exchanging stories about Mang Inasal, a brand we all love.”
Celebration of collaboration
The MICC was just granted the Black Dragon designation in the Best Brand Building/Awareness Campaign category at the esteemed 2023 Dragons of Asia, demonstrating that all of its efforts since its founding have been worthwhile.
“MICC is definitely one of our biggest wins this 2023 because we have connected with different communities of customers through our content partners nationwide,” said Rodillo. “We are thankful to all MICC members for their contribution in bringing all the great Mang Inasal updates to their followers. And the Dragons of Asia win confirms the power of their efforts.”
MICC Meet Ups were held across the country, in Mega Manila, North and South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, to commemorate this recognition. This gave the brand the opportunity to meet the creators face-to-face and learn about each other’s MICC journeys. Additionally, a virtual celebration celebrating the inaugural MICC IHAWtastic Awards brought all members together via Zoom to round out the year.
While MICC is helping Mang Inasal close 2023 with the biggest bang possible, the upcoming year promises bigger and more IHAWtastic initiatives that will undoubtedly give digital video producers more opportunities to enjoy Unli-Saya and Ihaw-Sarap meals wherever and whenever they choose!
Leading skincare company Dermorepubliq, available on TikTok Shop Philippines, has introduced a line of 16 expertly made products that are all packed with vital vitamins to completely transform the beauty regimen. It is such a holy grail for every woman with different skin types. It is also my favorite since it is so gentle on the skin, which is what the brand wants for our skin. It leaves my skin so soft and smooth. It is also an effective one since it really removes all my unwanted roughness and unevenness from my face. It is really a must-have in our skin care routine.
Keith Corwin Sta is the creative mind behind this avant-garde collection. Barbara started Dermorepubliq in 2020 as a result of his personal acne problems. His journey from personal struggles to skincare remedies highlights the brand’s dedication to producing products that are both gentle and effective.
His drive for quality and entrepreneurial zeal are evident in the brand’s growth from its humble beginnings with just three items to its current status as a national skincare powerhouse.
Dermorepubliq’s collection, which is intended to appeal to both men and women between the ages of 18 and 35, combines high-quality and affordability with the goal of enabling young adults to enjoy the inherent beauty of their skin.
Dermorepubliq’s diverse collection includes the 10% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic High-Strength Formula Serum, specifically formulated for sensitive skin, and the Niacinamide Acne And Oil Control Face Bar Soap, which harnesses the power of Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica, and Witch Hazel Extracts for a fragrance-free experience. Additionally, the Clarifying Gentle Face Wash, which blends Niacinamide with Green Tea Extract, Witch Hazel Extract, Peppermint, and Bergamot, is designed to prevent breakouts and offer a refreshing feel.
Furthermore, the lineup features specialized serums like the 10% Niacinamide + 3% Tranexamic Acid + 2% Alpha Arbutin Ultra White Serum, free from sulfates, silicones, and artificial scents, and focused on brightening and refining skin texture. For toning, the Clarifying Formula Toner and the Alpha Arbutin + Tranexamic Acid Ultra Whitening Toner, each offer unique benefits, the former being rich in Niacinamide and botanical extracts, while the latter targets hyperpigmentation with ingredients like Licorice and Papaya Extracts.
For more targeted treatments, the brand offers the Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic) & Retinol Morning and Night Set for skin brightening and correction, alongside the 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner, combining Salicylic Acid with natural extracts for effective acne control and soothing. Additionally, serums like the 2% Alpha Arbutin + Niacinamide + HA Dark Spot Corrector and the 5% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid Sensitive Skin Formula are specifically formulated to address skin blemishes and sensitivity.
Rounding out the collection are products like the 15% L-Ascorbic Acid + E + Ferulic Acid Brightening Formula Serum for a stable Vitamin C treatment, the Glutathione + Kojic + Alpha Arbutin Power White Body Bar for skin whitening, the Spot Treatment with a blend of seven oils for acne control, and the 1% Retinol For Sensitive Skins Serum, targeting acne and signs of aging. The 7% Glycolic Acid (AHA) Skin Renewing Toner and the 2.5% Retinol High Strength Formula Serum further complement the range, offering solutions for dull skin and more advanced skin concerns.
The brand’s pledge to stay away from harsh chemicals commonly found in mainstream goods is indicative of their dedication to creating gentle yet effective remedies. As stated by Sta. Barbara, maintaining the integrity of its formulations while guaranteeing client pleasure is Dermorepubliq’s mission.
Dermorepubliq has solidified its position as the preferred option for skincare fans and fulfilled its objective of reinventing beauty regimens with the launch of real outlets at SM Fairview and Riverbanks Center Marikina.
You can find Dermorepubliq’s newest stores at the following locations:
Keith Sta. Barbara is the President and Founder of Dermorepubliq Corporation. With over 2 years of experience leading the company, he directs operational activities, ensures business objectives are met, and implements strategic plans.
Before venturing into skincare, Keith spent over 5 years at Service Source as an Instructional Design Manager, leading a team in developing training interventions. His expertise includes instructional design, development, and proficiency in learning management systems. Keith’s extensive background also includes roles at Transcom, where he served as Learning Design Lead, Virtual Trainer, and Trainer.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing from Trinity University of Asia and a degree in Information Technology from San Beda College, Keith brings a diverse skill set to his role at Dermorepubliq.
He has also received the Spark Challenge Innovation Award in 2017 and 2018.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
About Dermorepubliq and its products
1. What is Dermorepubliq?
Dermorepubliq is a local skincare brand on a mission to redefine beauty routines with its gentle yet effective products.
2. What is the brand’s journey?
Founded in 2020 by Keith Corwin, Dermorepubliq’s journey stems from the founder’s personal struggle with acne. This entrepreneurial spirit led to the brand’s inception, starting with three products and expanding to cater to users nationwide.
3. What is Dermorepubliq’s mission?
Dermorepubliq aims to redefine beauty routines by providing gentle yet effective skincare products, empowering individuals aged 18-35 to embrace their skin’s natural radiance.
4. How many products does Dermorepubliq offer, and who are they designed for?
Dermorepubliq offers a collection of 16 meticulously crafted products designed for both men and women aged 18-35, striking a balance between affordability and effectiveness.
5. What sets Dermorepubliq’s products apart?
Dermorepubliq reinforces that its products are gentle on the skin and affordable.
6. Are Dermorepubliq’s formulations suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, Dermorepubliq’s custom formulations are enriched with essential vitamins and thoughtfully selected ingredients, making them compatible with sensitive skin.
6. What benefits can users expect from Dermorepubliq’s products?
Users can expect visible results at affordable prices, thanks to Dermorepubliq’s commitment to excellence. The products are designed to cater to the skincare needs of individuals aged 18-35.
8. Are Dermorepubliq products free from harsh chemicals?
Yes, Dermorepubliq ensures a pure skincare experience by committing to products that are free from harsh chemicals such as alcohol, sulfates, silicones, parabens, polymers, formaldehyde, artificial colorants, and artificial scents.
9. Are Dermorepubliq products FDA-approved?
All Dermorepubliq products are FDA-approved, prioritizing safety and efficacy for consumers.
10. How does Dermorepubliq achieve quality without a high price tag?
Dermorepubliq believes in quality skincare that is affordable. The brand achieves this by offering vitamin-enriched formulations crafted from premium ingredients.
11. Can Dermorepubliq products deliver results in a short period?
Dermorepubliq sets realistic expectations, recognizing that genuine skin improvements require time. The brand is committed to providing long-term benefits rather than quick fixes.
12. How does Dermorepubliq address common doubts about skincare products?
Dermorepubliq believes in quality without the high price tag, using premium ingredients. Real customer reviews attest to the effectiveness of local skincare, and the brand sets realistic expectations, recognizing that genuine skin improvements take time.
13. What do I do if I notice something is wrong with my order, or when I receive the product?
Feel free to email [email protected] with any questions, comments, concerns about your order or the product.
14. Where can customers find and buy Dermorepubliq products online?
Dermorepubliq products are conveniently available on various platforms, including Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok, providing customers with multiple options for purchasing.
15. Where are Dermorepubliq’s physical stores located?
You can find Dermorepubliq’s physical stores at the following locations at SM Fairview, Lower Ground Level, Parkway; SM Riverbanks Center, KF-08, Palm Lane; SM City Masinag at Lower Ground Floor; and SM City Tanza at Second Floor.
For other details about each product of Dermorepubliq, you may refer to their official website.
Be more financially prepared for health emergencies
The latest Manulife Asia Care Survey indicates that young Filipinos are growing increasingly aware of their health span—that is, the amount of time they will have excellent health. While the average Filipino respondent believes that they will be healthy until they are about 62 years old, younger millennials (those born between 1989 and 1996) believe that they won’t be at their best until they are 55 years old.
Because of the pandemic’s unprecedented effects, particularly on people’s health and financial situations, Filipino millennials and Gen Zs are now worried about their financial stability. They came to the realization that, given the following worries, they needed to start investing in life and health insurance or find other ways to increase their savings:
1. Their critical illness risk. Genetics, the environment, the stresses of modern living, and even binge-eating and endless feasts brought by the holidays, may conspire to put everyone at risk for various critical illnesses. Even Gen Z and millennials find that their relatively young age does not guarantee protection. For Filipinos, coronary heart diseases, tumors, and cerebrovascular conditions are the top health and mortality risks, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
2. Their poverty risk. Medical treatments remain costly, and they can be challenging even for the otherwise comfortable middle class. This financial burden is a significant concern for many Filipinos, with almost half or 45% of the national health expense coming from out-of-pocket payments. At least 1.5 million Filipino families are pushed to the poverty line every year due to unexpected health expenses, according to the Insurance Commission.
3. Weakened social safety nets due to economic uncertainties. Most Filipinos rely on health maintenance organization (HMO) plans and government-subsidized health insurance programs for their protection. However, with economic uncertainties causing medical inflation to soar to as high as 12-13%, Filipinos need more resources to cover the rising costs of hospital and medical treatments.
While they realize the importance of bolstering one’s health protection, some millennials and Gen Zs – many of whom are just starting their careers, shifting priorities, or changing life journeys – may feel held back by their limited income.
To address this gap and help make it easier for young Filipinos to boost their health and life protection, Manulife offers HealthFlex and FutureBoost.
HealthFlex, an innovative and flexible life and health insurance plan that protects against up to 112 critical illnesses and guarantees health coverage until age 100. Furthermore, if diagnosed with one of these covered critical illnesses, premiums are automatically waived, allowing them to focus on recovery instead of worrying about their medical bills. They can also customize their plans by adding coverage benefits for early-stage illnesses, second occurrences of cancer, heart attack, or stroke, and hospitalization and recovery assistance.
In the meantime, FutureBoost is a comprehensive plan that combines savings, health, and life insurance. It provides coverage against critical illness up to ten times the face value of the plan, or Php 15 million, and gives access to a variety of investment funds so that Filipinos can increase their savings and enhance their coverage at any time through various add-on benefits like hospital income benefit, which can assist them in covering hospital costs while safeguarding their savings. Young Filipinos can receive early protection from serious illnesses with FutureBoost while they save and get ready for their future.
Manulife aims to create creative ways to make insurance more accessible so that consumers may customize their health coverage and financially safeguard themselves and those they love most. This is because more Filipinos are looking for insurance solutions but are having trouble with budgetary restrictions.
Go to manulife.com.ph to find out more about Manulife’s health and life insurance offerings.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Tourism (DOT) have recognized Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, three times this year. These accolades reinforce the company’s unwavering vision to become Asia’s premier integrated attraction destination and the country’s leader in healthy family entertainment.
For the first semester of 2023, EK was acknowledged by BIR as the Top 2 Highest Value Added Tax contributor in the Biñan – West Laguna District. The aforementioned acknowledgment serves as evidence of the business’s timely and precise payments, which have been crucial in helping the district meet its revenue target for the first half of 2023.
EK’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Melissa Y. Monicayo emphasized the company’s commitment to pay the right taxes on time to the BIR. “This is in part of EK’s obligation to give back to our community, as we recognize our impact to the progress of our region,” she explained. In fact, Santa Rosa City Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas acknowledged EK as one of the city’s top taxpayers during EK’s Giant Parol Lighting held last November.
Last November, the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (BDTP) gave a special recognition to Enchanted Kingdom for being the first and longest Go Lokal retail partner during the FlexPinoy: Saludo sa Go Lokal! Retail Partners appreciation ceremony held at the DTI Head Office in Makati City. The event recognized Go Lokal retail partners and store operators who have made significant contributions to the continued success and growth of the innovative market access program of the DTI-BDTP.
According to Ms. Ma. Cherina Consunji, Head of Merchandise Division, Enchanted Kingdom embraced the “Go Lokal” initiative and promotes indigenous products through the establishment of “Pugad” in 2016. “Pugad is EK’s local souvenir shop which aims to provide access to new markets and a bigger audience for artisanal products in the country,” Ms. Consunji furthered.
And most recently, EK was one of the awardees during the “Mabuhay at Salamat Po! Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Recognition Celebration of Love” held last December 12 at the Makati Diamond Hotel, Makati City. Led by DOT Secretary, Maria Christina Frasco, the event recognized the significant contributions of Enchanted Kingdom and other institutions in advocating the FBSE and contributing greatly to the achievement of training more than 124,000 tourism frontliners for 2023.
As of this writing, 89% of EK’s full-time Cast Members have been trained under DOT’s flagship program which is envisioned to enhance and uplift the quality of tourism services in the country aimed at fostering excellent service to tourists as part of our distinct Filipino brand. Pauline C. Barreiro, EK’s Learning and Development Manager and a certified FBSE enterprise trainer shared that EK is geared towards training 100% of its full-time Cast Members by next year.
The world-class theme park is also a finalist in two categories for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Brass Ring Excellence Award, which honors notable achievement in the international attractions industry, according to Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, COO of Enchanted Kingdom.
EK is a finalist in two categories: Games and Merchandise Excellence: Best Retail Visual Merchandise Display and Human Resources Excellence: Best Health and Wellbeing Strategy. In March 2024, the winners will be formally revealed, and the ceremony will take place at The Venetian in Las Vegas.
“The year 2023 is a remarkable year for Enchanted Kingdom, as we recover from the impact of the recent pandemic. We are looking forward to a more magical 2024 as we continue to deliver world-class leisure and entertainment to all Filipinos. As our Anniversary slogan goes, “Be the Magic… Be Enchanted!” Dr. Mamon said.
