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Lifestyle, News

The New BFF Card Is Digital: You Can Tap Anywhere to Access All of Your Bistro Benefits

All it takes is a tap to have your next fantastic meal! Now available digitally, the new Bistro BFF Card grants you immediate access to special offers at more than 20 Bistro Group locations. Downloading the app will allow you to take advantage of eating benefits you were unaware you required, eliminating the need to carry a real card.

There are many different cuisines to choose from. There is a dish that will appeal to you no matter what you want to eat. Pizza, pasta, dim sum, burgers, steaks, and ribs? All-day breakfast, sushi, seafood, paella? Maybe buffalo wings or Korean BBQ?

With the new BFF Virtual Card, you can also take advantage of incredible and exclusive benefits that enhance the enjoyment of every meal.

Exclusive Perks for BFF Members

✔ Huge Discounts – Enjoy 30% off every Monday and 20% off from Tuesday to Sunday at all Bistro Group restaurants.
✔ ₱1,000 Dining Voucher – Can be used at any Bistro restaurant of your choice.
✔ Exclusive First Access – Be the first to enjoy special limited-time offers.
✔ Bistro Delivers – Order your favorites online via the Bistro Delivers app with a 20% discount.
✔ Kids Can Eat Free – Bring the whole family because kids can dine for free (maximum of 2 kids, entrée purchase required)                            

✔ Complimentary Tea or Coffee – Enjoy a free tea or coffee each time you dine in.

✔ Bistro Delivers –  Order your favorites online via bistrodelivers.com.ph with a 20% discount

Additionally, if you would like to eat your favorite bistro fare at home or at work, you may purchase online and get 20% off when you use your Bistro BFF app—a discount available just to BFF members who have the BFF app!

Make the switch to digital now! You can buy your BFF Card at any bistro restaurant or download it from the App Store or Google Play (App Store: https://2me.ph/QKOQQO, Google Play Store: https://2me.ph/OYWGEB).

Lifestyle, News

The winners of the Shop & Win Raffle promotion receive keys to a Porsche 911 Carrera S and a Kia Sonet from Landers Superstore

Landers Superstore Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings turns over the key to a brand-new Porsche 911 Carrera S to Ms. Ingrid Rose Panuncialman, a lucky winner from Landers Alabang, during the Grand Shop & Win Raffle Awarding Ceremony.

During the Shop & Win Raffle Grand Awarding Ceremony, Landers Superstore, the nation’s fastest-growing membership shopping destination, gave two lucky members brand-new automobiles, making shopping even more rewarding. An exciting highlight of the brand’s eighth-anniversary celebration, the event took place at Landers Arca South on February 13, 2025.

The day is full of amusement and fun as we come to celebrate an important milestone with Landers. A lot of exciting prizes and discoveries have come our way, and I am so delighted to have witnessed it all. We are also thrilled to know who the fortunate individuals are that have won their huge prize for being a loyal customer.

Landers Superstore Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings (far left) hands over the key to a brand-new Kia Sonet to Ms. Joy Felycitas Alzate of Landers Davao (3rd from left), alongside Kia Philippines executives Ms. Marikit Ligaya Bati, Assistant Brand Marketing Manager (2nd from left), and Ms. Celine Acasio, Fleet and Special Sales Manager (far right), at the Grand Shop & Win Raffle Awarding Ceremony.

Joy Felycitas Alzate from Landers Davao got a chic Kia Sonet, while Ingrid Rose Panuncialman from Landers Alabang took home the top prize—a lavish Porsche 911 Carrera S—out of millions of eager competitors. When Kia Philippines officials joined Landers’ Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings in presenting the keys for the Kia Sonet award, both recipients were beaming.

From Grocery Runs to Life-Changing Rides

Winning a high-performance car for simply shopping felt surreal for Ingrid Rose Panuncialman, who described the moment as “a dream come true.” She added, “Landers has always given us great deals, but I never expected to win a Porsche just by being a member.”

For Joy Felycitas Alzate, the news came as a delightful surprise. As a loyal Landers member since the Davao branch opened, she shared, “I joined just for fun. I never thought I’d actually win a car!”

3 Million Entries, 64 Winners, Unlimited Excitement

The Shop & Win Raffle, which ran from June to December 2024, attracted a record-breaking 3 million entries from Landers members across its 14 stores nationwide. Aside from the two car winners, 64 other lucky participants received exciting prizes such as:

  • 1-Year Supply of Landers Caltex Fuel
  • 1-Year Supply of Landers Central Pizza
  • iPads, Gift Certificates, Maya Credits, and more

This overwhelming response reflects the excitement and trust Landers has built with its growing 2-million-strong membership community.

Membership Means More—And It’s Just the Beginning

With the winners

The raffle’s success demonstrates Landers Superstore’s commitment to giving each member a sense of worth. Bill Cummings stated,  “We want our members to know that when they choose Landers, they’re choosing more than just great products—they’re choosing a rewarding experience.

Given the amazing attendance at the Shop & Win Raffle, Landers anticipates even more surprises and fulfilling events in the future.

Go to www.landers.ph or follow Landers Superstore on social media to be informed about future promotions and exclusive member benefits.

Lifestyle, News

In the Global 100 rankings, Schneider Electric was voted the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for the second consecutive year

  • Schneider Electric is the first-ever corporation to top Corporate Knights Global 100 twice.
  • This marks the company’s 14th consecutive year on the list, achieving a top 10 ranking for the 7th time.  
  • The global recognition highlights Schneider Electric’s outstanding efforts in advancing sustainability and innovation in emerging markets worldwide, including the Philippines.

Leading energy management and automation digital transformation leader Schneider Electric was named the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for 2025 by Corporate Knights. The company is the first to ever rank first in the Global 100 twice, having done so in 2021. Schneider’s long standing dedication to providing the greatest environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives in promoting sustainability and innovation throughout emerging markets globally, including the Philippines, is recognized by this international accolade.

“For many years now, sustainability has been at the heart of what Schneider Electric does. For an IMPACT company it’s more than just a corporate goal, it’s the driving force that shapes our business decisions and inspires our employees,” said Olivier Blum, Schneider Electric’s Chief Executive Officer. “This second title as the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation from Corporate Knights, alongside other key ESG recognitions, is testimony to the valuable, long-term positive impact we have.” 

Schneider Electric’s exceptional sustainability efforts, such as encouraging gender diversity in leadership, creating cutting-edge solutions for energy efficiency, electrification, and decarbonization, and linking executive pay incentives to its sustainability goals, earned it the top spot in this year’s Global 100 index. The company also received high marks for making large expenditures in sustainable R&D and successfully separating energy use and carbon emissions from commercial expansion.

This global commitment to sustainability is also mirrored in Schneider Electric’s impactful initiatives in the Philippines. In recent years, the company has demonstrated leadership in sustainable development practices across the country, including being named the most Gender-Inclusive Workplace by the 2024 United Nations Regional Asia-Pacific Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards for its efforts in advancing gender equality and inclusion in the workplace, all while delivering energy-efficient solutions through the expansion of its Smart Distribution Center in Cavite.

With 98% of Philippine firms prioritizing sustainability according to the company’s Green Impact Gap Survey 2024, Schneider Electric continuously supports local companies by advancing energy-efficient technologies, digitalization, and solutions for supply volatility and price fluctuations.

“Digitalization is becoming increasingly crucial for Filipino businesses. While challenges still remain, we are making significant strides,” said Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines. “Now, being recognized as the most sustainable corporation in the world twice in a row, it is high time to further accelerate efforts in transforming emerging markets in the Philippines into sustainable landscapes that drive progress and innovation.”

Corporate Knights’ Global 100 index uses publicly available data to score businesses according to sustainability. For 14 years running, Schneider Electric has been on the list, and it has placed in the top 10 seven times, which is a record for its category. The Schneider Sustainability Impact Program, which tracks ESG progress toward 2025 goals, began and ended with these recognitions.

Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric has helped restore Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral

  • Schneider Electric donated state-of-the-art solutions for energy management and facility security.
  • This symbolic act demonstrates Schneider Electric’s ability to mobilize resources for a multi-secular historic monument.
  • The success of this project is a result of ingenious solutions used to address logistics and complex constraints encountered on site.

Schneider Electric contributed, by means of donations, to the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The donated solutions have made it possible to secure and monitor the site’s electrical facilities. 

The restoration of Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral was recently aided by donations from Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation. The site’s electrical facilities can now be secured and monitored thanks to the donated solutions. Incorporating 21st century technology into a cathedral that marks a pinnacle of medieval art and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, the monument’s energy consumption may be managed and optimized via the company’s Building Management System (BMS).

The fire that severely damaged the cathedral on April 15, 2019, sparked an incredible wave of solidarity that Schneider Electric wanted to be a part of. “It’s an obvious move for Schneider Electric to support actions of this type for symbolic and prestigious sites, as we have done in the past for the Comédie Française state theater and the Antarctic station,” highlights Gilles Vermot Desroches, Director of Citizenship, and Institutional Affairs at Schneider Electric.

Innovations for the Future

Schneider Electric provided expertise, products, and solutions thanks to a donation agreement. As such, the Group supplied all the equipment required to supply power to the site and for its security (20 kV HV cells, a 20 kV/410V 1250 kVA transformer, general and divisional electrical switchboards, inverters, safety lighting, devices etc.), as well as the tools for the technical management of the building, making it possible to monitor the functioning of the network and control its power consumption (automatic control systems, sensors, controllers, communication buses etc.).

In addition to the equipment, Schneider Electric is carrying out some of the maintenance of the electrical distribution equipment, providing some of the engineering, studies, commissioning, and programming of the installed systems, as well as the training of future users.

The old electrical installation was inoperable due to the fire and without electricity, reopening was impossible. The new network ensures the distribution and security of the energy supply, incorporating innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies that optimize the management of its electricity consumption and help ensure the safety of the cathedral.

A Shared Commitment

The project team had to deal with a large number of technical issues demanding ingenuity and preparation.

One such issue was the delivery and installation in early 2024 of the connected TRIHAL transformer, a key element of the cathedral’s power supply. Delivered by truck and then raised onto the site above the construction area, this 3.2-ton block was then lowered via a hoist into position in the basement of the presbytery. A specific study had to be carried out for the lifting operation.

Installing the high-voltage substation in an underground vaulted cellar with considerable access and space constraints was also an issue resolved with customized equipment and support.

This is a project for which the logistics have been quite tricky and required excellent coordination with the other players on site,” said Cédric Larcher, Regional Manager of the Electrical Distribution Application Center at Schneider Electric France, responsible for management, performance, and monitoring on site.

Around 60 Schneider Electric workers—from factory workers to the site’s network designers—contributed knowledge and skills as part of a skills transfer program in addition to providing infrastructure. As part of its assistance, Schneider Electric also trained partner companies, including the Val-de-Marne-based panel builder Ateliers Electriques de France to install the main low-voltage cabinet, the Seine-Maritime-based FBS Electricité to install the high-voltage substation, the Eure-based ERM to create specific support structures, and the Val-de-Marne-based Transport Avex to perform the incredibly complex handling operations in the presbytery basement. Visit this website to find out more.

To learn more: web page

Food, News

Together, the Philippines and Japan are stronger as they work toward a common goal of a more sustainable future

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation and ASEAN-Japan Centre forge sustainable solutions to reach sustainability goals for 2030


 As part of the Second Philippines-Japan Environment Week, which took place from January 13–15 at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Manila, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) participated with grace in the workshop on Unwrapping Sustainable Packaging with Promotion of Circular Design in the Philippines. The workshop was co-organized by the ASEAN-Japan Center and Design Center of the Philippines and provided a comprehensive three-day opportunity to strengthen environmental endeavors and efforts between the Philippines and Japan. Along with sessions designed to improve different areas that address the expanding green business and promote the development of a resilient and decarbonized society, the event also featured an Environmental High Level Policy Dialogue between participating governments, which was a discussion that was duly taken seriously.

APC Group answered the call by the ASEAN-Japan Centre to partake in a momentous event made possible by joint efforts of stakeholders locally and internationally, with Mr. Ernie Carlos, APC’s Director for Supply Chain Management and Chief Sustainability Officer representing the company. As one of the leading corporate businesses and a frontrunner in driving sustainable efforts and conversations in the country, his message highlighted APC’s commitment to reduce its environmental impact towards 2030 and beyond, with the hopes of imparting relevant information and action plans, ultimately inspiring stakeholders to make the move and begin replicable efforts. These steps toward a greener future included efforts like their sustainable packaging (which includes the AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g paperpack), a testament to how mono-materialization, down-gauging, calendarization, and removal of secondary plastic packaging materials can contribute to a multitude of ways. The SariCycle® Program  was also presented as an example of how inclusivity of all members of society and circularity prove to render positive outcomes.   

Both Japan and the Philippines are now dealing with a number of environmental issues, but like any problems, they may always be lessened and finally resolved. One of the many ways that coming together demonstrates that building a more sustainable and green future is possible is through the cooperation that has been established by the two nations’ ongoing efforts. Society is in fact making the right steps toward a more realistic sustainable future for everyone, not just in the Philippines and Japan, but all over the world, by increasing awareness and educating the public, starting with businesses that can be environmental stewards through circular packaging, reiterating the importance of EPR, and offering more avenues conducive to the creation of potential business partnerships that adapt sustainable packaging and labeling. And that’s the Eat Well, Live Well strategy of the Ajinomoto Group for a sustainable future.

Lifestyle, News

The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) collaborate to increase plastic waste management in Asia

In Asia, a region with many environmental potential and concerns, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF) have joined forces to help solve the growing problem of managing plastic waste. Effective solutions are more important than ever because of the growing amount of plastic trash caused by rapid urbanization, the need for single-use plastics, and gaps in waste management infrastructure.

The region’s waterways allow a large amount of the world’s plastic garbage to enter the ocean, endangering human health, livelihoods, and marine ecosystems. Asia is home to 16 of the top 20 polluted rivers in the world, which generate over two-thirds of the plastic debris that enters the world’s oceans each year.

UNDP and TCCF are stepping up their efforts in nine Asian countries—Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Maldives, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam—in response to this pressing issue. TCCF is providing a $15 million grant to boost UNDP’s regional activities.

The three-year multi-country programme launched in India today, will help improve plastic waste management, promote recycling, reduce plastic leakage into the environment, foster country-based solutions, and facilitate regional collaboration. By adopting and disseminating best practices across the region, the programme aims to inspire policy changes and community-level actions to reduce and help to eliminate disposable plastic and improve the livelihoods of waste workers.

While expanding successful initiatives, the programme will focus on developing innovative business models for waste collection and recycling, offering technical advice on environmental best practices and tapping into the latest technology to improve collection and recycling, to reduce plastic leakage.

“Tackling plastic waste isn’t just about cleaning up – it’s also about building a smarter development model. Across Asia, countries are combating the problem by embracing the circular economy. Through our Zero Waste and Plastics initiatives, we are helping them craft policies, attract investments, and reduce the consumption of single-use plastics,” said Christophe Bahuet, UNDP Deputy Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific. “With this initiative, we are also empowering communities to scale up solutions that will effectively reduce plastic pollution and safeguard our planet.”

“Collaboration is key to help improve waste management systems and strengthen recycling infrastructure. Through our collaboration with UNDP, the Foundation aims to advance solutions that minimize packaging waste, support better collection methods, and enhance processing capabilities. This approach not only helps address plastic waste more effectively but also contributes to long-term improvements in local communities and the broader environment,” said Carlos Pagoaga, President, The Coca Cola Foundation.

Lifestyle, News

Alsons Dev opens the first integrated emergency response complex in Sarangani

The APSSC houses three critical facilities: a Fire Substation, Community Police Assistance Center, and MDRRMO Satellite Emergency Operations Center. This integrated setup mirrors a similar complex in Alsons Dev’s Northtown township in Davao, further highlighting the company’s innovative approach to fostering public safety across its developments.

On January 14, 2025, the finished Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex was blessed and inaugurated by Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), marking an important milestone. The Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, the first integrated emergency response center in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, is situated in Avia Estate, Alsons Dev’s master-planned community in Alabel, Sarangani. It is a state-of-the-art building that houses three crucial government functions.

The facilities were officially turned over from Alsons Dev to the Alabel city authorities at the inauguration. The Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office will then get the facilities from the Alabel LGU.

“The completion of the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex represents Alsons Dev’s long-standing commitment to enhancing community development and well-being in Mindanao. By providing vital infrastructure and supporting local government initiatives, we can contribute to a safer and more prosperous future for Alabel and the broader Sarangani community,” said Miguel Rene A. Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alsons Dev.

A one-stop hub for emergency services

The Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex, set to open to the public in the first quarter of 2025, is a pioneering one-stop hub designed to improve response times and coordination among emergency services, significantly enhancing the safety and security of Alabel and its neighboring areas.

“This complex stands as a powerful symbol of hope, security, and resilience. It is a testament of the foresight and unity of our local leaders. We wholeheartedly dedicate this facility to those tirelessly protect and serve our people – our courageous men and women in uniform.” shared Sarangani Governor Ruel Pacquiao.

The complex houses a Fire Substation equipped with modern firefighting resources to effectively respond to fire emergencies and a Community Police Assistance Center, providing a secure and accessible space for police operations. It also has an MDRRMO Satellite Emergency Operations Center that will serve as a hub for coordinating disaster response efforts, including monitoring, communication, and resource allocation.

L-R: Sarangani Governor Rogelio “Ruel” D. Pacquiao, Alabel Mayor Vic Paul M. Salarda, Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel A. Dominguez, Provincial Fire Marshal-Sarangani FSupt. Reginald L. Legaste, PNP Alabel OIC Kathrina Alegarbes, and LDRRM Officer III Haweya Balangcas at the ceremonial turnover of the plaque for the Alabel Public Safety & Security Complex from Alsons Development & Investment Corporation.

“Since this will be officially turned over to the Municipality of Alabel, rest assured that it will be put to good use and will bring lasting benefits to our community. Our Public Safety and Security Complex, built with the invaluable support of our long-time partner Alsons Dev, the Alcantara Group, and its subsidiary, will serve as a vital asset for our residents. We are truly grateful for Alsons Dev’s unwavering support to the Municipality of Alabel.” said Mayor Vic Paul M. Salarda, MPA.

Alsons Dev’s first integrated emergency response complex in Davao City, the first of its kind in the nation, served as the model for the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex. These advancements strengthen Alsons Dev’s dedication to meeting communities’ changing requirements and its position as a leader in public safety infrastructure and regional development.

Go to https://aviaestate.ph/ to learn more about Avia Estate.

Lifestyle, News

Horizon Land’s Quantum Residences on Taft Avenue in Pasay Have Their Ceremonial Opening

In photo are Horizon Land executives and partners (from left to right): Horizon Land Operations Head John Cabato; Horizon Land Customer Service Group Lead Cheryl Ann Tolentino; Federal Land Sales Activation & Administration Head Freya Alba; Quantum Residences Board of Directors Vice President Ryan Sabalvaro, Quantum Residences Board of Directors Corporate Secretary Eva Tolentino, Quantum Residences Board of Directors Internal Auditor Engr. Daniel De Leon; Federal Land Property Operations Group Head Ramon Concepcion: Horizon Land Project Development Manager Mariz Doria; Federal Land Technical Execution Deputy Head Engr. Lawrence David; and Federal Land Sales Talent Acquisition, Retention, and Training Head Jennifer Rosales.

A significant milestone in its commitment to giving Filipino families sensible, functional homes in desirable areas was reached when Horizon Land, the smart value brand of multi-awarded real estate developer Federal Land, Inc., celebrated the completion and ceremonial blessing of Quantum Residences Aqua Tower.

“The completion and opening of Quantum Residences Aqua Tower is an important milestone for Horizon Land. This construction milestone underscores Horizon Land’s dedication to staying on target for timely delivery and unit handover, ensuring that families can soon enjoy modern living spaces designed with their needs in mind,” said John Frederick Cabato, Horizon Land Property Development Corp. Operations Head.

Quantum Residences is a transit-oriented condominium development strategically located along Taft Avenue, offering a variety of attainable modern-day features and conveniences catering to the evolving requirements of the market. Aqua Tower is the first of three buildings set to rise within the development.

“Taft Avenue has transformed over the past decade into a vibrant hub for students, young professionals, and families, drawn by its proximity to leading universities and business districts. Quantum Residences offers an accessible and convenient city center address, supporting residents in achieving their aspirations and enhancing their quality of life,” said Jose Mari Banzon, Horizon Land Property Development Corp. President.

Since its debut, Quantum Residences has been a well-liked investment, winning the 2024 DOT Property Philippines Awards’ Best Starter Home Condominium title. Until March 31, 2025, prospective purchasers can still take advantage of exclusive promotions with monthly installments as low as PhP15,000. Additionally, Quantum Residences provides early move-in options at 5% payment milestones and extended down payment plans of up to 53 months.

Visit www.horizonland.ph, send an email to [email protected], or give their hotline a call at (02) 7506-4819 or (0917) 857-4908 for more information on Quantum Residences. Additionally, you may see their model units and showroom in Le Parc Events Hall, which is situated along EDSA Extension Road in Met Park, Pasay City.

Lifestyle, News

Launch of the Viyline MSME Caravan at SM Supermalls

(L-R): SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Jonjon San Agustin and Viyline
Media Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and content creator Viy Cortez-Velasquez launch
the Viyline MSME Caravan across SM malls, merging social media content creation with entrepreneurship.

As SM Supermalls and Viyline Media Group, led by vlogging power couple Viy Cortez and Cong TV, team up to encourage local entrepreneurs through the Viyline MSME Caravan, get ready for an exciting partnership.

This year-round program, which will launch at SM City Bataan on January 22–29, 2025, will highlight goods and services from MSMEs while utilizing the enormous influence of leading Filipino vloggers to increase their visibility.

(L-R): Viyline Media Group Marketing and Advertising Manager Karol Louie Manalac, Viyline
Media Group General Manager Rolando Cortez, Viyline Media Group Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) and content creator Viy Cortez-Velasquez, and SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President
for MSMEs Royston Cabunag at the Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony in November 2024.

With a commitment to supporting local businesses, SM Supermalls is providing prime venues for the caravan across its nationwide locations. Following the success of the Team Payaman Fair at SMX Convention Center Manila last December, this initiative combines Viyline’s influencer network and SM’s iconic spaces to create a dynamic marketplace for MSMEs.

“Our goal isn’t just to give MSMEs a space—it’s to actively support them with influencer-driven promotions that connect them with their target audiences,” shared Viy Cortez.

The Viyline MSME Caravan at SM City Bataan is just the beginning, with future stops planned at various SM malls nationwide, ensuring that MSMEs across the country will have the chance to participate. This event is not only a business opportunity but also reflects the growing partnership between influencers, businesses, and large-scale mall operators like SM Supermalls.

The caravan’s first stops include:

  • SM City Bataan: January 22-29 #ViyLuckyinBataan
  • SM City Baguio: February 19-25 #ViyInLoveInBaguio
  • SM City Dasmariñas: March 26-April 1 #ViynibiniSaDasma

Influencer meet-and-greets, entertaining games with your favorite Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), and exclusive local discoveries from participating MSMEs are just a few of the fascinating activities that each event promises to offer. Don’t pass this up!

Keep checking out for the upcoming Viyline MSME Caravan schedule, which will be held at an SM Supermall in your area. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media for the latest information. Let’s support Filipino business owners together! #SMForMSMEs

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/sm-for-msmes/ to download your MSME application or email us at [email protected] with your most innovative product and preferred location. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business with SM Supermalls today!

Lifestyle, News

BPI and Ayala Museum use photography workshops to encourage creativity

Participants of the “Everyday Photography” workshop listen intently as Aly De Leon Reyes talks about mastering composition and visual storytelling. (Photo courtesy of Ayala Musuem)
 

On January 11, 2025, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) presented a free photography workshop called “Everyday Photography” in the 3F Studios, Ayala Museum in Makati City, through the BPI Foundation (BPIF), its social development arm.

The class provided participants with an interesting session on compositional principles under the direction of Aly De Leon Reyes, a member of the Ayala Alabang Camera Club and a featured photographer-artist in the show “In the Name of Progress: Selections from the BPI Art Collection” Reyes offered insightful advice on how to master framing, balance, and visual storytelling to turn everyday photos into gripping visual narratives. “Everyday Photography” is related to the exhibit’s theme, which reflected a joint appreciation of art and creativity by showcasing both images from the partner photography club and items from the BPI Art Collection.

“We at BPI Foundation are committed to fostering creativity and promoting a deeper appreciation for art and photography. Through initiatives like this workshop, we aim to inspire individuals to see the beauty in everyday moments and empower them to tell their own stories through visual art. This collaboration with the Ayala Museum and the Ayala Alabang Camera Club, and the exhibit featuring both our art collection and their works, is a testament to the power of partnership in bringing art closer to the community,” said Carmina Marquez, BPIF Executive Director.

Jasper Tejano shares tips on capturing the essence of city life through street photography, allowing participants to see their surroundings in a new light. (Photo courtesy of Ayala Musuem)

BPIF and the Ayala Museum held a second workshop, “Explore the Art of Street Photography” with Jasper Tejano, an international street photographer whose works have been showcased globally, from Manila to Miami, Paris, Milan, and other countries. Held on January 18, 2025, the event provided participants with insights into capturing compelling street photography. Tejano shared techniques for observing and framing everyday moments, helping attendees elevate their photography skills.

Photographers and aspiring storytellers, ages 14 and older, attended the two sessions and brought their own equipment, from cellphones to digital and film cameras. Additionally, it offered a perfect wrap-up to the exhibit “In the Name of Progress,” which used visual art and photography to examine the connections between progress and legacy. The show, which was presented by BPIF in collaboration with the Ayala Museum, was on display at the latter from November 19, 2024, to January 19, 2025.

This program demonstrates BPIF’s dedication to encouraging artistic expression and cultural awareness, which is consistent with its overarching goal of using the arts to empower communities and promote good change.