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On International Day of the Girl, Beiersdorf, Watsons and Plan International join together to empower Filipinas with the campaign BraveHER, BoldHER, and StrongHER


Beiersdorf executives turning over their PhP1,000,000.00 donation to Watsons Philippines and Punlaan School on International Day of the Girl. The donation will benefit Punlaan School’s pharmacist scholars.
 

Girls are driving change throughout the world by shattering glass ceilings in a variety of industries and professions and upending preconceived notions about what is achievable for them.

In response, Plan International Pilipinas, Watsons, and Beiersdorf Philippines joined forces to develop a series of initiatives that will enable young women to reach their full potential free from the prejudice and obstacles that have long held girls and women back.

The International Day of the Girl (IDG) is observed through the implementation of several programs. IDG, which takes place every year on October 11, is a potent opportunity to draw attention to the lives and reality of girls and young women.

The “BraveHER, BoldHER, & StrongHER: Redefining Girls’ Power to Take Charge, Break Barriers, and Thrive” event, held to commemorate IDG, is a collaboration of the three organizations. With a focus on equitable and high-quality health care and professional development to boost their economic resilience, this event provides a forum for debates regarding girls’ rights and gender equality.

Bringing together Nimisha Jain Country Manager Beiersdorf Philippines, Cathy Seco of Executive Director Plan International Pilipinas, and Sharon Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability of Watsons in one panel became an opportunity to open a genuine dialogue and prompt first-hand discussions about the importance of advancing girls’ rights, including their right to equal opportunities, celebrating their achievements, and raising awareness about the challenges they face.


From L-R: Twyla David, Portfolio Manager, Gender & Inclusion and Child & Youth Engagement, Plan International Piliipinas,  Nimisha Jain, Country Manager of Beiersdorf Philippines, Stephanie Barraud, Senior Vice President of Beiersdorf ASEAN, Kim Reyes, Director, Trading Beauty & Commercial Services of Watsons Philippines, Sharon Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability of Watsons, Ana Maria Locsin, Executive Director of Plan International Pilipinas, Philippe Magentie, Global Sales Director of Beiersdorf Global, and Cathy Seco, Program Director of Plan International Pilipinas sign Beiersdorf, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas’ commitment of support to empowering young Filipinas.

“We care beyond skin for an inclusive society and aim to foster social cohesion. From the get-go, our efforts are grounded in our goal of providing inclusive education, promoting protective environments, and fostering skills development in girls. Every initiative is a reflection of our commitment. And the progress of these young girls showcases the impact of our collective effort,” says Nimisha Jain.

The invaluable participation of Punlaan scholars and youth advocates from Plan International Pilipinas also provided valuable insights into what it’s like to be a girl in today’s world and their shared hopes for a gender-equal society, where they are treated as experts in their own experiences, as agents of change, and as equal partners.

But more than joining hearts and minds for a conversation, the event also provided a chance for all partners to express their commitment towards supporting girls and young women in the country.


In partnership with Watsons and Plan Pilipinas International, Beiersdorf (makers of NIVEA) participated in “Girls Takeover”, a one-day program that gave 10 chosen young Filipinas the opportunity to learn, acquire essential work skills, and experience corporate world from Beiersdorf and Watsons leaders.
 

Beiersdorf is setting their sights high with an ambitious target: to make a positive impact on the lives of 300,000 people in total by 2023 through the Empowering Girls projects. To achieve this Beiersdorf has set up programs that offer quality, inclusive education, promote protective environment and strenghten health services, an ideal environment for girls and young women to thrive. To demonstrate this commitment, Beiersdorf Philippines’ formal declaration of support for Filipina girls, aligns seamlessly with Beiersdorf’s global commitment, which kickstarted in 2020 and is set to continue until 2025.

Additionally, the company is turning over donating PhP1M to Punlaan School’s Pharmacist Scholars, providing young women and girls with a better chance to realize their dreams of becoming pharmacists. To generate the funds, Beiersdorf dedicated a portion of all NIVEA sales made at Watsons stores from July 15 to August 31, 2023.

Plan International, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines since 1961, adopts a lifecycle and gender-transformative approach to economic empowerment.


Girls Takeover was held on September 30 and is an activity by Watsons, Beiersdorf and Plan International Pilipinas. It aims to empower young girls to learn, lead, decide, and thrive through a one-day workshop and work experience activity.

“Girls and young women make up the majority of the world’s 628 million unemployed young people. They don’t have access to education or job training, preventing them from getting the skills they need to access decent work and break out of poverty,” said Ana Maria Locsin.

“This is why this event serves as a unique opportunity for us to come together and ensure that every girl can pursue the career and life she wants,” Locsin added.

The organization is currently implementing projects that provide support to girls and young women from a young age and throughout each stage of life, enabling them to make economic decisions while challenging the gender norms and societal stigmas imposed upon them.

Watsons, as the leading health, wellness and beauty retailer brand, also recognizes their influence to change lives and uplift communities. As part of Watsons’ Sustainable programs under the “People” pillar,

Watsons’ has chosen Punlaan School, a renowned institution that caters to young women from underserved communities by providing essential training and education, to be the center for the Watsons Apprenticeship Program. Through this special 6-month program, young women are eqipped with the skills needed for a successful career path with Watsons.

“This Apprenticeship Program with Punlaan school reflects our commitment to support and create job opportunities for young women,” shares Josefina Arriola, People Innovations Project Director  of Watsons. “Our goal is to be able to educate and equip them with the skills to be job-ready and empowered members of the community.”

It is also worth noting that this is more than just a one-day event for these organizations. BraveHER, BoldHER, & StrongHER comes in the tails of two other activities: the recent “Girls Takeover” hosted in five Watsons stores and the “Girls on the Rise” Career Workshop.

A signature IDG event of Plan International, the Girls Takeover aims to encourage girls to occupy spaces where they are rarely seen or heard, engaging in conversations that empower them to learn, lead, decide, and thrive. On September 30, Watsons and Beiersdorf welcomed 10 girl advocates who had the opportunity to take over the positions of Beauty Ambassadors, Cashiers, and Store Managers for a day.

As a follow-through activity to the Girls Takeover, the career workshop focused on developing the girl advocates’ intrapersonal skills, which are essential for success in the job market. During this workshop, Beiersdorf and Watsons staff actively engaged with the girl advocates by conducting modules focused on personal development and personal and professional values. These modules provided valuable insights and skills that empowered the advocates and boosted their readiness for future employment opportunities.

“We believe that girls can be bigger than any barrier, bolder than any bias, and stronger than their struggles. Our collective goal is to provide them with opportunities to overcome obstacles and thrive in all aspects of their lives,” said Locsin.

Visit https://www.beiersdorf.com to discover more about NIVEA Philippines’ ongoing efforts and activities to support the community’s young women.

Visit https://plan-international.org/philippines/ to learn more about Plan International Pilipinas’ efforts to advance girls’ equality and children’s rights in the Philippines.

To know more about Watsons Philippines sustainability initiatives and efforts to support communities, visit https://www.watsons.com.ph/sustainabilityand www.watsons.com.ph.

October 19, 2023 by
Fashion, Lifestyle

Discover Shopee’s top beauty and fashion deals this October with your Shopee friends

The nation’s leading fashion and beauty influencers have formed a dynamic team called “Shopee Besties,” which Shopee is excited to introduce. Since July, these influencers have shared their top Shopee fashion and beauty picks. As the Besties share additional fashion and beauty secrets from Shopee, this exciting collaboration is poised to transform the online shopping experience with the formal launch.

Huiyan Pan, Head of Marketing at Shopee Philippines, shared about the partnership, stating, “We are glad to be partnering with fan-favorite influencers to bring more personalized and engaging content to our shoppers in the Philippines. Shoppers can look forward to insider shopping tips, top picks, and exclusive deals from Shopee Besties. We will continue to work with our partner brands, sellers, and influencers to deliver a more interactive and enjoyable shopping experience for shoppers this year-end.”

Fashionistas sharing their must-have clothing brands and beauty experts showcasing their top skincare and makeup picks from Shopee are among the current Shopee Besties lineup.

Through entertaining and educational material on Shopee and various social media platforms, customers are invited to learn how to look as good as the Shopee Besties themselves. Watch for the intriguing KOL content on the Shopee app and social media channels, where our fashion and beauty professionals will reveal special discounts and share their insider shopping secrets.

Follow the Shopee Besties and check out the microsites here and here for the newest fashion and beauty finds.

October 18, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Lalamove ‘Making a Pawfect Move’ Delivers Care to Rescued Pets Around the World

By spreading the love for animals in need, Lalamove users in Asia and Latin America are being urged to “Make a Pawfect Move” by the top on-demand delivery company. Lalamove collaborates with the nonprofit Pawssion Project in the Philippines to rescue injured and abandoned animals, care for them while in foster care, and find them new homes so they can have a second chance at a better life.

Through the “Make a Pawfect Move” campaign, an expansion of Lalamove’s Deliver Care program, the company seeks to improve the lives of abandoned dogs and cats at Pawssion Project by providing financial support, as well as assisting their shelter ‘paw-rents’ who give their all to keep the organization running.

By signing up for Lalamove Rewards and accruing LalaPoints with each successful order, users can show their support for the Pawssion Project’s animal friends in need. Users can donate Php 20 with a minimum of 480 LalaPoints or swap 1,230 LalaPoints for a Php 50 donation. The Pawssion Project will receive 100% of the money.

With hundreds of rescued pets, especially at their Bulacan shelter, Lalamove has extended free delivery services for Pawssion Project, as well as providing those willing to donate with a discounted delivery rate using the promo code LALAPAWSSION.

Apart from these, Lalamove employees have also taken the initiative to go to the Pawssion Project Bulacan shelter to make the rescued pets’ days brighter with donated food and other necessities, and by feeding them, bathing them, and cleaning their homes.

“Many Filipinos are naturally animal lovers, and we have seen this in local communities where the culture of feeding and taking care of strays is a usual occurrence. In Lalamove, we bring this culture of malasakit toward our community and our furry friends. Through this campaign, we get to connect our Lalamove users to make a positive impact for all animals who need help, while empowering the growing petconomy in the country by helping them reach these untapped communities,” remarked Djon Nacario, Managing Director of Lalamove Philippines.

For Malou Perez, Founder of Pawssion Project, this Lalamove campaign was a beautiful blessing. “We partnered with Lalamove earlier this year because we had one common goal: to be a voice for the voiceless. Pawssion Project is more than grateful for Lalamove’s support, since we held the Pawchella fundraising concert in April to free and discounted deliveries to this day. With Lalamove’s support, we will be more capable of providing the daily essentials and supplies that rescue animals need while waiting to be adopted at our shelter,” she shared.

Calling all animal lovers! Lalamove invites everyone to get involved and spread the word to paws-itively contribute their LalaPoints to make the world a better place for our four-legged friends.

Users only need to complete these four easy steps to join the Rewards program and donate LalaPoints to Pawssion Project’s pet buddies.

Join the cause now: https://www.lalamove.com/en-ph/en-ph/make-a-pawfect-move-0?hs_preview=DRLAxnft-134503248457

October 13, 2023 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Advice from the Infinix Vlog Masters Benedict Cua, Kianna Dy, and Rhian Ramos on how to make videos that truly stand out

Documenting your day or sharing amusing events with friends on social media was the original purpose of vlogging. For ambitious content creators, it has now developed into a promising career path. On websites like YouTube and TikTok, where people discuss anything under the sun and occasionally take on intriguing challenges, you can see the variety of content that is available.

Online content is abundant, making it challenging to stand out. The beautiful thing about vlogging, though, is that you have a lot of creative freedom and content flexibility. The Infinix Vlog Masters are all too aware of this since they frequently think outside the box when using the new Infinix ZERO 30 5G to record their own stories.

If you need motivation to start your next vlog, Rhian Ramos, Kianna Dy, and Benedict Cua can help. They provide the following advice:

Authenticity is key


Rhian Ramos for Infinix ZERO 30 5G

Vlogging allows you to share a slice of your life, especially the interesting parts of your day, to your followers. Rhian likes her content to be casual and “a little bit kengkoy” to show another side of herself outside of her showbiz persona. “The point of vlogging is to express yourself and connect to your audience,” she says.

For Benedict, he considers his content as an online journal, so he tries to “capture everything as they happen naturally.” He emphasized the importance of staying true to yourself and not trying to be someone you’re not. “Keep it authentic and maximize whatever resources you currently have for creativity. Be you!” he says.

Likewise, Kianna believes in being unfiltered when it comes to sharing what a day in her life looks like. She likes sharing her volleyball training and adulting era, among others, with her followers in hopes of someone finding her content relatable. “I think aspiring creators should be authentic at all times. Be real and show your personality as much as possible and I’m sure someone will find it inspiring, fun, or enriching,” she says.

Embrace imperfections


Kianna Dy for Infinix ZERO 30 5G

“Your content doesn’t have to be linear or your shots don’t have to be clean, centered or with the perfect lighting conditions all the time,” Kianna says. Contrary to what you see online, vlogs don’t look polished and Instagram-worthy – you can thank good editing for that.

Kianna believes that providing a good mix of polished shots and mistakes can make vlogs more dynamic, and help you tell an interesting story. The imperfections can also make your content different from others.

Have a reliable phone to shoot on the go


Benedict Cua for Infinix ZERO 30 5G

You don’t need an expensive professional camera to shoot your vlogs. Oftentimes, your smartphone is enough to capture memorable moments, especially if they happen right in front of you. The Infinix ZERO 30 5G, also known as the ultimate vlogging phone, has an impressive 4K 60FPS Ultra Clear Front Vlog Camera that captures HD quality clips and photos wherever you go.

Rhian says she doesn’t leave home without the Infinix ZERO 30 5G these days. “It’s always on me. It has a 50 megapixel camera both on the front and back, capable of recording 4K videos at 60fps. Plus, it has a processor chip fast enough for all my editing needs.”

Benedict’s advice is to use this nifty vlogging phone while traveling because it’s lightweight and compact. “My favorite is using the Infinix ZERO 30 5G for my B-rolls as it highlights the entire trip. Truly leveling up my vlogs!”

Kianna echoes this sentiment, saying, “The Infinix ZERO 30 5G has been a game-changer for me because it is so compact and light, but delivers high-quality sound and video, especially for travel vlogs,” she says. “I don’t panic anymore if my settings are correct because it does it for me.”

Overall, showcasing your true self in vlogs will make it easier for you to conceptualize the content and flow of your longform vlogs and snackable video clips. You can level up your creativity with each vlog using the Infinix ZERO 30 5G (P14,999 for 12+256GB) with its pro-level camera features. Plus, with the 5G Powerful MediaTek Dimensity 8020 processor with up to 21GB Massive Extended RAM, you can also edit and upload your content without a hitch.

The Infinix ZERO 30 5G is available on Infinix’s online stores on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, and all Infinix concept stores and kiosks nationwide.

At Infinix’s Mobile Vlog Awards (MVA), aspiring video makers can also display their inventive filmmaking abilities. Template Tales in collaboration with CapCut and Vertical Freedom are the two categories in which users can display their material. From October 5 through October 30, entries must be submitted via TikTok, and the winners will be announced on November 6.

Infinix ZERO 30 phones, as well as unique prizes like Air 1 Pro earphones, laptop bags, and e-certificates, will be given out to MVA finalists. See here for information on how to participate in the first Infinix MVA.

Visit the official website, Facebook page, and TikTok of Infinix Philippines for additional news and information.

October 10, 2023 by
Food, Lifestyle

For the third year in a row, URC was voted the Philippines’ most outstanding manufacturer of consumer goods

In its Asia’s Outstanding Poll 2023, one of Asia’s top financial publications, Asiamoney, chose Universal Robina Corp. (URC) as the Philippines’ most outstanding company in the consumer staples sector for the third consecutive year.

After conducting a thorough poll of the top capital movers and financial experts in the area, Asiamoney presented the prize to URC, one of the major food manufacturers in the Philippines.

URC president and CEO Irwin Lee said clinching the award three times in a row “serves as a validation of the quality of our product, and a testament to the unyielding trust and confidence that our valued customers have in us”.

“It is also a recognition of the remarkable dedication shown by our workforce, and a reaffirmation of the overall excellence that defines our company,” he added.

Asiamoney is a top source of news, commentaries and data services for international capital markets.

The  2023 Asia’s Outstanding Company Poll  covered over 1,225 fund managers, analysts, bankers and ratings agencies. In total, 7,653 votes were received for publicly listed companies across 13 markets in Asia.

The results recognized 194 companies as being the most outstanding in their respective sectors and markets.

The poll was designed to acknowledge listed firms that have excelled in areas such as financial performance, management team excellence, investor relations and corporate social responsibility.

Lee thanked the diverse group of fund managers, analysts, bankers, and ratings agencies who participated in the voting. 

“We are also grateful to all our stakeholders – employees, suppliers, customers, and consumers – whose unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in our resilience during the recent challenging years,” he added.

Lee said the latest award reinforces URC’s commitment to becoming the “foremost sustainable food and beverage enterprise from the Philippines, that delight consumers around the world with good food choices”.

The legendary products produced by URC, which have long been a part of Filipino culture, include Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx sweets, and Cream-O cookies. URC, one of the biggest food and beverage producers in the nation, has a substantial and expanding presence in ASEAN. A few of its top regional brands are Fun-O, Tivoli, and Lexus.

For the third consecutive year, Universal Robina Corp. (URC) has been recognized the Philippines’ most outstanding firm in the consumer staples sector by Asiamoney, one of the region’s top financial periodicals. Popular food and beverage brands like Cream-O cookies, which are widely distributed in the area, are produced by URC.

October 9, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Through the ‘BiyahEdukasyon’ assistance program, Lalamove Philippines helps 100 partner drivers’ families pay for their children’s education

Leading on-demand delivery platform Lalamove Philippines introduces BiyahEdukasyon, which will grant a total of PHP 20,000 in provides for the upcoming second semester of the academic year 2023 to 2024 to 100 partner drivers’ children and/or siblings from Luzon, Metro Manila, and Cebu. They are given the opportunity to pursue their academic objectives and have access to a high-quality education.

The initiative, which falls under the Deliver Care brand, embodies Lalamove Philippines’ commitment to helping partner drivers and their families realize their dreams, particularly those related to education, in addition to providing them with employment opportunities and a means of subsistence.

“At the heart of BiyahEdukasyon is our desire to uplift the lives of our partner drivers and their loved ones. Nakikita namin ang dedikasyon ninyo sa araw-araw na makatulong sa mga deliveries ng libu-libong tao, kaya ngayon, hayaan niyo naman pong ihatid namin ang pasasalamat sa aming programa (We see your dedication every day to help move things that matter through deliveries for thousands of people, so this time, allow us to show our gratitude through our program). In every student, we see boundless potential, dreams that can transform lives. We want Lalamove to play a part in turning those dreams into reality,” Djon Nacario, Lalamove Philippines’ Managing Director emphasized.

How to apply?

Lalamove’s BiyahEdukasyon program is open to  Lalamove partner drivers – from the serviceable and covered areas of Lalamove in Luzon, Greater Metro Manila, and Cebu – for their children and/or siblings, currently enrolled in senior high school or college, and pursuing any field of study who exemplify a strong desire to continue higher education.

Partner driver applicants can choose one beneficiary – whether their kid or their sibling – then fill up the application form, submit the required documents, and tell their inspiring story. There are no grade requirements to qualify for this program.

Empowering dreams, transforming lives

Beyond providing financial support, Lalamove’s BiyahEdukasyon program unites partner drivers and their families as they work toward shared objectives.

According to Nacario, Lalamove Philippines thinks that partner drivers ought to allow their family members the freedom to follow their aspirations without being constrained by financial obligations. This is where Lalamove comes in.

“BiyahEdukasyon is only the beginning of our major steps toward the fulfillment of our long-term commitment to empowering our partner drivers and their families. It aims to underscore Lalamove’s steadfast, long-term commitment to enable the economic well-being of our partner drivers, ” Nacario said.

To apply and find out more about the program, visit www.lalamove.com/en-ph/biyahedukasyon.

October 7, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Dr. Sarah and Kenneth Padron-Lumalang are the newest franchise owners for VPX in Pasig City, transitioning from cruise lines to car lines


Revolutionizing Auto Service in Pasig City: [Seated] Mr. Normann Chiu, President of ValuePlus, and Dr. Mary Sarah Padron finalize their groundbreaking agreement. [Standing, 2nd from Right] John Kenneth Lumalang, alongside ValuePlus executives [Standing] Rem Agustin, Admin Manager, Mark Saberola, General Manager, and Darlyn Valenzona, Repsol Marketing Manager, witness this pivotal moment for VPX Auto Service Franchising.

Dr. Mary Sarah Padron and her husband John Kenneth Lumalang have joined ValuePlus Auto Service Philippines Inc.’s pioneering brand VPX Auto Service Franchising as its newest franchisees. The youthful pair, who reside in the busy city of Pasig, injects a new wave of vitality and innovation into the network.

Dr. Sarah is a practicing physician, and Kenneth has experience working in the food and beverage division of the cruise business. They are both overseas Filipino professionals. The couple balances the joys and difficulties of parenting a family while starting this new chapter with the challenging effort of creating their franchise.

“I’ve always been fascinated by cars and the complexities of auto maintenance.” Channeling this enthusiasm into a VPX franchise is a dream come true. “We strive to deliver exceptional service by combining medical precision with culinary flair,” adds Dr. Sarah.

Kenneth, her husband, adds, “We are thrilled to be a part of a brand that resonates with our values.” VPX is innovative and customer-focused, qualities we want to instill in our own franchise.”

“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Dr. Sarah and Kenneth into our VPX family,” says ValuePlus President Normann Chiu. Their particular skill set and enthusiasm for the business make them great franchisees.”

Mr. Mark Saberola, GM of ValuePlus, is equally upbeat, saying, “Dr. Sarah and Kenneth embody the spirit of what VPX aspires to be—versatile, committed, and focused on delivering top-notch service.” Their various backgrounds promise an intriguing dynamic that we can’t wait to experience.


A Journey Fueled by Aspirations and Icing: Dr. Mary Sarah Padron and John Kenneth Lumalang with their one-of-a-kind ‘Opening Soon’ cake, a heartfelt gift from VPX, capturing the promise and excitement of their forthcoming auto service venture in Pasig City.

Dr. Sarah and Kenneth defy the notion that a doctor and a F&B expert entering the vehicle care industry is a reach. Their wide-ranging skill set not only enhances the VPX brand but also disproves the widespread belief that technicians and engineers should only do auto servicing.

The location of the Pasig City branch in Brgy. With the impending opening of Ugong, VPX Auto Service Franchising will have reached another significant milestone in its mission to transform auto care in the Philippines. The inclusion of this brilliant duo on the VPX roster demonstrates the company’s inclusive and progressive philosophy.

Please get in touch with Mark at [email protected] or 0917-637-2085 for VPX Auto Service franchise queries.

October 5, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

Allianz PNB Life Honored For Outstanding Workplace Practices and CSR Initiatives


Allianz PNB Life Chief HR Officer, Kathy Oliva, and Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer, Gino Riola (7th and 8th persons from the left), proudly accept two awards at the 2023 HR Excellence Awards ceremony, joined by their colleagues from Human Resources, Protection and Resilience, and Market Management.

The success of an organization depends on its workplace culture, which supports employee engagement, productivity, and performance. Everyone is inspired to work their hardest when there is a strong, supportive culture that upholds the company’s ideals.

Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) has been able to focus on giving its clients the finest financial journey experience possible, which supports its purpose to ensure the future of the Filipino people. This has contributed to its strong year-over-year success. The company’s great performance is visible in both its human resources and financial results.

Making Work-Life Balance Possible

As a testament to its commitment to promote an engaging and positive workplace culture, Allianz PNB Life was recently recognized in several categories of the HR Excellence Awards, which honors the best-in-class HR teams and individuals, for their ground-breaking and impactful work executed across the entire HR function to champion the way forward.

AZPNBL won two Gold Awards at the HR Excellence Awards – Excellence in Workforce Flexibility and Excellence in Workforce Mobility – a recognition of the company’s effective response to harness digital tools and offer streamlined and timely services to its clients and employees. As it is cognizant that work culture and attitude are ever-evolving and that workers’ attitudes and behaviour toward work must be taken into consideration to bring out the best in them, the company was able to match their passions with their responsibilities, to show respect to their right to dignity of work, while maintaining a proper balance of achieving organizational goals and targets through proper and responsible work.

As such, AZPNBL laid the groundwork for its employees to have the choice and be flexible in the manner in which they can do their work. With proper guidance in adhering to pre-pandemic principles from HR and their line managers, employees can choose when, where, and how they can do their work, while maintaining a high quality of output and a results-based measurement system that assures that goals are met.


Allianz RideSafe-Kaagapay Participants joyfully and proudly display their certificates following training with Tambay Cycling Hub, SOS Children’s Village, and Allianz PNB Life.

Enabling empowerment through crisis management

As AZPNBL shifted to hybrid ways of working, it is also important to mitigate and handle risks both in real life and online. The company won a Bronze Award for Excellence in Crisis Management Planning through its Allianz PNB Life Protection and Resilience program, which focuses on building safety and protection of the company’s “software” and “peopleware”.

Communication materials promoted cyber-safety, with regular training and seminars on disaster preparedness for employees and Life Changers. These utilized creative and practical ways of building capacities of AZPNBL employees so that they will be up-to-date on cybersecurity issues, and be equipped with basic knowledge on handling emergency situations during natural disasters.

Building a CSR culture

As the company continues its robust growth in the industry, it also reaches out to communities to promote inclusivity and sustainability with several impactful campaigns through its Corporate Social Responsibility programs. The Ride Safe initiative, which promotes cycling as a mode of transportation in four major cities within Metro Manila, won a Silver recognition from the HR Excellence Awards and Most impactful CSR Initiative at the Insurance Asia Awards 2023.

Aside from helping clients achieve their financial goals, AZPNBL encourages them to build a better tomorrow and secure their future through various sustainability initiatives that are geared not just for its clients, but also its communities.

AZPNBL partnered with public and private organizations to promote biking as a healthy and sustainable form of transport, and to supply biking infrastructure and education. Aside from projects that included installing artful bike racks, a solar-powered cyclist pit stop, and a bike lane along a major thoroughfare, it has expanded to include a livelihood component by offering bike maintenance repair training for SOS Children’s Village Kaagapay program participants from Iloilo, Cebu, and Tacloban.

The Seeds of Tomorrow project, which also won an award at the Insurance Asia Awards 2023 for Most Creative Campaign focused on sustainability and food security. Through this project, Allianz Protect policyholders were given the opportunity to contribute a percentage to the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines’ (WWF-PH) Food Shed Farming Enterprise Project.

Along with its strong performance in the industry, these CSR activities have helped create awareness and build credibility and trust for AZPNBL among Filipinos. Allianz PNB Life Chief Marketing Officer Gino Riola says, “Our vision is to Secure the Future of Filipinos not only through our innovative products and services that are designed to meet lifetime financial planning and wealth accumulation, but also through extending our support for Filipino communities through programs that will reach even future generations. This is in keeping with the Allianz Global initiatives to create positive social impact through the way we run our organization and by using our expertise as an insurer, investor, and asset manager.”

As a Great Place to Work from July 2023 to July 2024, the Global Authority on Workplace Culture also recognized AZPNBL. In addition, Insurance Asia News named AZPNBL Life Insurer of the Year among Asian Insurers, and International Business Magazine named AZPNBL Most Outstanding Life Insurance Company-Philippines in 2022.

The accolades, according to Allianz PNB Life President and CEO Joseph Gross, encourage the business to keep providing top-notch goods, services, and solutions as part of its dedication to helping Filipinos. “We are anticipating strengthening our market leadership with our ongoing, pertinent innovation, which includes the digitalization of our insurance policies, along with the know-how, commitment, and Filipino brand of caring from our Life Changers.”

October 4, 2023 by
Lifestyle, News

How to Apply for Canadian Visas Without Being Scammed, According to RCIC Expert Advice

Following comments made by Housing Minister Sean Fraser that capping the number of international student visas is “one of the options” they “ought to consider” in order to address the housing problem in Canada, the Canadian government recently made news.

Kaede Kikumoto, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), stated that he is aware of this persistent problem.

“I must admit na tumaas talaga significantly ang cost ng pagbili at pag-rent ng bahay sa lahat ng parts ng Canada. Madami na rin ang nagiging homeless; humihingi ng tulong sa government at mga non-profit organizations for housing; hindi maka-afford bumili ng bahay dahil sa tuluy-tuloy na pagtaas ng presyo kaya nananatiling nangungupahan,” he said.

Late last year, he had dinner with the consul general of Vancouver and the ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, and they talked about possible causes of the issue. Kaede drew attention to the flaws in the visa processing system by noting a twofold increase in the number of Filipino international students studying in Canada. “Dahil ‘pag nabibigyan ng mga false promises at na-experience na ang realidad sa Canada, sa Consul General at Filipino non-profit organizations na ang lapit, sila din nahihirapan. “Minsan, nasisisi pa if you’re planning to allow ghost consultants or unauthorized representatives in the Philippines,” he remarked.

As Kaede stated, these misleading promises include the ability to become a permanent resident of Canada in a short amount of time and to take their family with them when they move abroad.

Eventually, our kababayans will realize that these things don’t come easy. This is when things start to complicate. He said, “Dito na papasok ‘yung ayaw nilang umuwi kasi nakapangutang na sila o nagbenta o nagsanla para panggastos papunta sa Canada. Ang ending, mag-o-overstay ng walang legal status o mag-cash jobs, which is illegal. ‘Yung iba ay nakikitira sa mga kamag-anak o kaibigan, pero may mga ilan na nagiging homeless o nagkakabaon-baon sa utang.”

Committed to helping our kababayans experience a hassle-free trip, Kaede’s Kikumoto Immigration Firm offers free consultations to guide them on their journey and to avoid getting scammed.

“Tumutulong ang Kikumoto Immigration Firm sa mga kababayan natin na magbigay ng mga tamang impormasyon at walang false promises. Ine-educate namin silang mabuti sa kung anong pwede nilang kaharapin sa Canada,” he said.

Guiding their clients in every step of the way, Kaede also warned people of engaging with illegal representatives.

“Inaalalayan ng Kikumoto Immigration Firm ang mga clients bago sila mag-apply for a visa, bago umalis, pagdating sa Canada at maging sa kanilang pananatili doon. Hindi namin sila iiwan sa ere, hindi gaya ng mga unauthorized representatives na hindi naman talaga legally authorized to represent clients. Hindi nila inaral ang immigration laws ng Canada unlike Kikumoto Immigration Firm na ran and owned by an RCIC,” he added. 

“Sa Kikumoto Immigration Firm, may malasakit sa clients. Kaya naman tuwang tuwa ang mga clients namin dahil kami pa mismo ang nagreremind sa kanila kung pwede na mag-apply ng post graduate work permit, permanent residency o citizenship. Inaalagaan namin ng mabuti ang immigration status nila sa Canada para hindi sila maligaw ng landas,” Kaede concluded.

About Kaede Kikumoto

Kaede Kikumoto, RCIC, MBA, PMP is a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and BC Commissioner for Taking Affidavits. Hailing from the city of Vancouver, Canada, Kaede is the Chief Executive Officer of Kikumoto Immigration Firm that has successfully processed over a hundred clients in less than a year.

About Kikumoto Immigration Firm

Established in 2021, Kikumoto Immigration Firm is a Vancouver-based company run by licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kaede Kikumoto.

Kikumoto Immigration Firm commits to offer professional immigration, education, recruitment & employment, business, and legal services to help provide fellow Filipinos the best opportunities and a better life in Canada.

Website: https://www.kikumotoimmigrationfirm.com/

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

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kikumotoimmigrationfirm

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kikumoto.immigrationfirm

October 3, 2023 by
Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

A Fresh Look for Tired, Aging Eyes with Restylane® Bright Eyes


Photo shows (L-R): Galderma Aesthetics Marketing and CET Manager Christine Legaspi, Galderma Philippines General Manager Ferdinand Roxas, Founder and Medical Director of the Asian Stem Cell Institute, Inc., Ma. Cristina Puyat, MD, FPDS, FPADSFI, World Renowned Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon Jason Li Chien-Nien, MD, Head Dermatologist of Aesthetic Institute of the Philippines Karen Gavino-Dionisio, MD, FPDS, and Galderma Aesthetics Business Unit Head Michelle de Jesus.

Concerns about tired eyes are common and transcend age and gender. Even after a restful night’s sleep, loss of volume and under-eye shadow can create the appearance of ongoing weariness.

Everyone might experience the effects of fatigued eyes, which is why Restylane® Bright Eyes is the solution. Restylane® Bright Eyes is a personalized treatment plan that reduces wrinkles and tears through distortion around the eyes. It is one of the brand’s cutting-edge Holistic personalized Treatment (HITTM) techniques.

For a brighter appearance, Restylane® Bright Eyes HITTM recommends using Restylane in conjunction with Lidocaine and Restylane® VOLYMETM in the periorbital region.

Restylane with Lidocaine emerges as the revolutionary answer to rejuvenate and brighten up those captivating eyes backed by extensive clinical journals. Dark shadows, under-eye hollows, and a fatigued appearance are no longer a challenge thanks to the groundbreaking filler, Restylane with Lidocaine.

Meanwhile, Restylane® VOLYME ™ is an aesthetic innovation that addresses mid-face volume loss, offering a non-surgical solution that restores natural-looking, youthful fullness. Through state-of-the-art technology, Restylane® VOLYME™ empowers individuals to regain their vitality and self-assured glow.

Restylane® Bright Eyes HIT™ emerges as a game-changer in the field of aesthetics, designed to address the concerns of those seeking to brighten up their eyes and achieve a more youthful, vibrant look.

“Restylane® Bright Eyes HIT™ represents a significant advancement in the world of aesthetic enhancements,” says Dr. Jason Li Chien-Nien MD., a renowned expert in dermatology from Taiwan, “Its unique formulation allows for precise and controlled volume restoration, resulting in a balanced appearance. The results are truly remarkable, and I’m thrilled to be part of an era where such innovative solutions are accessible to individuals seeking a refreshed and rejuvenated look”

The effectiveness of Restylane® Bright Eyes HIT™ is underscored by its ability to deliver results that go beyond expectations and its longevity, reducing the need for frequent maintenance sessions.

“Restylane® Bright Eyes HIT™ exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of beauty innovation. We believe that everyone deserves to look and feel their best, with the diverse portfolio of Restylane®, we are providing a transformative solution that empowers individuals to embrace the ageless natural look they deserve,” says Christine Legaspi, Marketing and CET Manager of Galderma.

This extraordinary filler targets the tear trough region, delivering the ideal touch of volume where it counts most thanks to its cutting-edge formulation and professional precision. has been the subject of extensive study and clinical testing, making it a dependable and secure solution for improving the under-eye region.

October 3, 2023 by