Food

The delicious new Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are #SnackGoals for these five reasons

Get the limited-edition treat while you can, Cream-Oholics!


Enjoy your favorite me-time activity with Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies
 

A new snack has arrived that has the potential to completely change the lives of chocolate lovers. We’re talking about the brand-new, limited-edition Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies, a fresh and distinctive source of chocolate joy handed down from the gods above in chocolate heaven.

Here is all the information you need to know about Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies in case you’re curious about its flavor:

Double the treat, double the fun

With Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies you can experience the best of both worlds as it combines two popular snack formats in one scrumptious bite. It’s both a soft, chewy cookie and a rich, fudgy brownie. As an amazing bonus, there’s even chocolate cream surprise once you take a bite.

Choco-tastic” Sensation

This treat definitely delivers when it comes to chocolate. From the deep, cookie-brownie base to the choco cream filling, it’s a chocolate lover’s (or Cream-Oholic’s) dream come true. Just a warning: extreme levels of “choco-happiness” may occur.

Softness overload

Forget crumbly cookies and dry brownies. Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are all about that delectable and smooth texture. They’re flavor bombs, with each blissful bite into that soft and chewy cookie.

Me-time but better

Enjoy your favorite me-time activity — like cozying up to a good book, listening to your favorite inspirational podcasts, or watching your favorite true crime or K-drama series — much, much more with a glass of creamy milk or a cup of joe and this heavenly treat by your side.

Limited-edition magic

Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are like shooting stars in the snack galaxy, a fleeting moment of pure deliciousness. So, grab these limited-edition treats while you can.


Make your me-time moments more “choco-happy” with Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies

Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies aren’t just a snack; they can be a great partner to make your me-time moments more “choco-happy”. Go forth, Cream-Oholics, and snag this limited-edition treat.

Purchase the recently released Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookie online at URC stores or in-store at Uncle John’s, Shopwise, Puregold, SM Supermarket, Robinsons Supermarkets, Robinsons Department Store, and Robinsons Easymart.

For information on all of Cream-O’s upcoming chocolate delights, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC), the company behind popular Pinoy food and beverage brands including C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Maxx, Cloud 9, Magic Crackers, and many more, is the manufacturer of Jack ‘n Jill Cream-O. Visit URC’s website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines), and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines) to find out more information.

Food, Lifestyle, News

500 Coca-Cola outlets will join Tindahan Extra Mile as the company increases its recycling footprint in Bacolod


Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, BEST President Isabelita Mercado, Coca-Cola Philippines Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Sr. Director Ivanna Dela Torre, and Coca-Cola Philippines Sr. Director for Franchise Operations Pablo Medina signed an agreement launching the Tindahan Extra Mile program in Bacolod City.

The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle Program was introduced in Bacolod City by Coca-Cola Philippines in collaboration with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO).

Customers in Bacolod City can take greater action regarding recycling and contribute to the advancement of a circular economy for plastic packaging by enlisting 500 sari-sari stores and carinderias as new collecting partners.

Albee Benitez, the mayor of Bacolod City, praised the effort and underlined the value of collaborating with businesses, organizations, social entrepreneurs, and non-governmental organizations to provide opportunities that have a lasting impact and can improve people’s lives.

“The Tindahan Extra Mile Program is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By mobilizing our local entrepreneurs and fostering community engagement, we are taking significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable Bacolod,” he said.

“As we launch the Tindahan Extra Mile Program, we are not merely initiating a program; we are igniting a movement,” Mayor Albee emphasized. “Together with BENRO, BEST, Coca-Cola Philippines, and our dedicated micro-retailers, we have the power to effect real change and preserve our environment for future generations,” he added.

How does TEM benefit micro-retailers?

Through Tindahan Extra Mile, participating micro-retailers will receive financial incentives by collecting PET plastic bottles. The program encourages the community to partake in a shared responsibility towards a cleaner Bacolod by providing convenient collection points in front of sari-sari stores and carinderias. Residents can easily drop off their empty bottles for recycling. Store owners will accrue environmental points proportional to the bottles they collect, redeemable for cash or products through the bXTRA app.


Coca-Cola Philippines, BEST, and the City Government of Bacolod engage micro-retailers
to join Tindahan Extra Mile and set up PET bottle recycling bins in their stores

“Investing in the Tindahan Extra Mile program aligns perfectly with Coca-Cola Philippines’ goal to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle we sell in the country. By empowering women micro-retailers, who make up a significant portion of sari-sari stores and carinderia owners in the Philippines, TEM creates a convenient and accessible network for consumers to recycle,” said Pablo Medina, Senior Director for Franchise Operations at Coca-Cola Philippines. “This program not only helps foster environmental responsibility but also provides opportunities for financial independence and growth for these female entrepreneurs, driving positive change within their communities.”
 

How can a micro-retailer become a TEM member?


Sari-sari store and carinderia owners in Bacolod City sign up to become members
of the Tindahan Extra Mile Program.
 

Any sari-sari store and carinderia owner can become a member of the Tindahan Extra Mile in three easy steps.  

Step 1: On the Tindahan Extra Mile Facebook page, sign up on the bXTRA website using your email address.

Step 2: Collect empty PET plastic bottles and bring them to the nearest TEM Trash to Cashback Collection Hub.

Step 3: Exchange your PET bottles for a TEM kit and card to start earning environmental points.

Watch here to learn more about Tindahan Extra Mile.

BEST Senior Vice President Jan Vincent Mercado urges micro-retailers to join TEM as

members. “In partnership with Coca-Cola Philippines, our aim is to empower micro- entrepreneurs to become environmental stewards,” he said. “We acknowledge their significance and influence within communities, emphasizing their potential to encourage community members to segregate plastic waste and participate in recycling endeavors,” Mercado said.

Empowering micro-retailers for a World Without Waste

To enable more micro-retailers and inspire collective action towards plastic bottle recycling, Coca-Cola Philippines will bring the Tindahan Extra Mile Program to other areas such as Cebu and Cagayan de Oro in 2024.

Coca-Cola Philippines introduced “May Ikabobote Pa,” a consumer engagement initiative, last year in an effort to inform, uplift, and encourage more people to recycle their old bottles and cans.

The company has launched new bottles that are entirely composed of recycled PET plastic in an effort to promote the circularity of plastic packaging. Wilkins Pure 500 ml, Sprite 500 ml, and Coca-Cola Original 190 ml are currently carrying this innovative container. Since these bottles may be recycled numerous times, less virgin plastic is produced and utilized overall.

Through the Coca-Cola Sustainability Hub, customers can find the closest collection locations and learn more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ recycling programs.

Lifestyle, News

Manulife Opens New Davao Branch, Reiterating Its Promise to Use Insurance to Protect More Filipinos in Mindanao


Manulife opens new branch in Davao City, Philippines. In this photo (second from left) are Rahul Hora, President and CEO, and Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer, Manulife Philippines, with Manulife financial advisors and agency leaders from Davao.
 

The newest agency branch of Manulife, a worldwide financial services provider, opened its doors in Mindanao recently. It is situated in Aeon Towers, J.P. Laurel, Bajada, Davao City. The company’s largest branch has opened in the provinces of Davao and Mindanao, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to offering the local Filipino population comprehensive, adaptable, and easily accessible insurance products.

Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines, expressed excitement about the company’s expansion in Davao City. “Our commitment is stronger than ever to financially protect more Filipinos in Mindanao through our innovative insurance and investment solutions that aim to address our customers’ most pressing needs, especially when it comes to health and life protection, retirement planning, and investments. It will be much easier and more convenient for Davaoeños to consult with our empowered Manulife financial advisors as the new branch is now located at the heart of the city.” 


Manulife’s biggest branch in Mindanao. In this photo are Rahul Hora (center in dark grey) President and CEO, Manulife Philippines; Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer, Manulife Philippines (7th from right); and the company’s agency leaders and financial advisors in Davao.



Rahul Hora, President and CEO of Manulife Philippines; Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer; Maiko Diaz De Rivera, Head of Distribution Operations; JF Salazar, National Agency Sales Head; and Manulife financial advisors and agency leaders were in attendance during the opening ceremony.

To learn more about Manulife and its offerings, go to manulife.com.ph and following them on Facebook (facebook.com/ManulifePH), Twitter (@ManulifePH), and Instagram (@manulifeph).

Travel

Take delight to Forest Crest Nature Hotel and Resort and embrace the nature’s tranquil

The appeal of nature is stronger than ever in a world where digital distractions are all around us. The Forest Crest Nature Hotel and Resort in Nasugbu is charming precisely because of this. This vast 100-hectare paradise is more than just a place to go on vacation; it’s an open invitation to escape everyday life and feel the peaceful embrace of nature.

Camping at Forest Crest means something entirely different. Not only is it a great way to decompress, but it’s also a chance to take in the tranquil atmosphere of the forest, take in the clean air, and make lifelong memories. Here, the objective is to set off on a comprehensive adventure that nourishes the body and the soul, not just to get away.

Forest Crest is more than your typical resort. With 70% of the property blanketed in rich greenery, it welcomes not just families, but also weekend adventurers and groups of friends seeking an extraordinary escape from the mundane. Picture wide-open spaces that can accommodate up to 1500 people for team-building activities and day tours for a staggering 20,000 visitors.

A camping vacation at Forest Crest is tucked away in the protective arms of nature. Imagine daring treetop excursions, thrilling ATV rides, and forest treks all set against the breathtaking backdrop of nature’s grandeur.

Forest Crest facilitates accessibility for all campers, regardless of experience level, by offering reasonably priced tent rentals for novices and experienced campers alike.

Food, Lifestyle, News

Bulacan Factory of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation use only renewable energy

Signs partnership agreement with Ayala Group’s ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions

Ajinomoto Philippines Corp. (APC) is committed to environmental sustainability and is making progress toward completing its 2030 Roadmap. Ajinomoto Philippines Flavor Food Inc., or APF Bulacan Factory, has been operating entirely on renewable energy since December 2023, marking a new and shared milestone for APC and the Ajinomoto Group thanks to the relationship with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions, a subsidiary of the Ayala Group. Last March 1, 2024, at The Melting Pot, 35th Floor, ACEN, Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2 Paseo de Roxas cor., Makati Avenue, Makati City, a commemorative MOA signing was held to celebrate this success.

APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki, Vice President Mr. Makoto Tanabe, Director of the APF Bulacan Factory Mr. Juanito Ramos, and Chief Sustainability Officer Mr. Ernie Carlos were present for the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. Mr. Miguel de Jesus, Chief Operating Officer of ACEN Corporation, Mr. Tony Valdez, Senior Vice President for Market Transformation, and Ms. Sheila Mina, Assistant Vice President for Commercial Operations, attended the significant occasion.

The journey for the APF Bulacan factory to run on 100% renewable energy began in 2022, with the installation of a 1MW-peak capacity Solar Rooftop in the manufacturing facility, reducing approximately 18% of its annual carbon footprint from electricity consumption. In mid 2023, APC continued to seek more avenues to mitigate its environmental footprint with ACEN RES coming into the picture, with the reputation of being one of the premier suppliers of Renewable energy in the country. Now, with this new partnership, APF Bulacan has been using only renewable energy to power its operations, a major feat for APC and the Ajinomoto Group.  

We will relentlessly foster partnerships with organizations that share the same advocacy and goal, because we believe that by combining our efforts, we are closer to co-creating a greener and more sustainable Philippine society.” Says APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki.

As of right now, there is hope for reaching the target year on the route to finishing the APC 2030 Roadmap. One of APC’s several efforts toward environmental sustainability is the utilization of 100% renewable energy in its Bulacan factory. This suggests that further environmental-centric activities and projects may be accomplished.

Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines honors the exceptional achievement of its dealer network in 2023

During the mobility company’s annual Dealer Conference, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) honored its dealership network and acknowledged its top-performing outlets in 2023 with the Toyota Dealer Awards.

In order to win its 22nd consecutive Triple Crown—being the top seller of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and total sales—TMP recognized the critical role the dealer network played. Additionally, TMP expressed gratitude to the dealers for meeting customer mobility needs and exceeding 200,000 car sales in the previous year.

“Last August, we celebrated our 35th year anniversary here together with the Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, Mr. Akio Toyoda,” said TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty in his address to the dealers. “While Chairman Toyoda acknowledged the Philippines as among Toyota’s Top 10 global markets, he made it very clear that his greatest wish is for Toyota to be number one in the HEARTS of every Filipino.”

“As Chairman Toyoda declared in Toyota’s new vision—we will invent our path forward together. He also advised us that while we must aim high, we must also care deeply—about people, society, the economy, our environment, the future and about creating cars and services that truly bring happiness to all.”

TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty was joined by Vice Chairman David Go, President Masando Hashimoto, Executive Vice President Jing Atienza, and Senior Vice President Masahiro Haoka in honoring the top performing dealers.

 The awardees who received major awards this year are:

President’s Award of Excellence


(L-R) TMP SVP for Marketing Masahiro Haoka, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Atty. Reginaldo Oben, Ms. Gina Loo, Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

Large Business Division – Toyota Marilao, Bulacan, Inc.


(L-R) TMP SVP for Marketing Masahiro Haoka, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Mr. Manus Miguel, Atty. Reginaldo Oben, Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben,  TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

Medium Business Division – Toyota North EDSA


(L-R) TMP SVP for Marketing Masahiro Haoka, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Ms. Mary Evangeline Tan, Mr. Jose B. Tan, Mr. Ivan Castro, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

Small Business Division – Toyota Subic, Inc.

President’s Customer Satisfaction Cup of Excellence


(L-R) TMP SVP for Marketing Masahiro Haoka, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Ms. Gina Loo, Ms. Ivy-Fleurie Magalong, Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

Toyota Marilao, Bulacan, Inc.

President’s Value Chain Award of Excellence


L-R) TMP SVP for Marketing Masahiro Haoka, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, Atty. Reginaldo Oben, Mr. Don Juan Miguel Oben, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, Mr. Rommel Ocampo, TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

Toyota Balintawak, Inc.

Aside from these major awards, TMP also recognized winners of Toyota Dealer Achievement Award for Overall Performance, Toyota Dealer Award of Excellence and other special awards.

Newly appointed TMP President, Masando Hashimoto, also addressed the dealers, recognizing Team Toyota Philippines’ commitment in promoting mobility for all.

Congratulations everyone for a job well done. As ONE TEAM, we made 2023 one of our most historic years ever,” Hashimoto said. “I believe we are in a good position to help define and create the future of mobility in the Philippines.”

TMP also honored the diligent Marketing Professionals (MPs) and Service Advisors (SAs) of Team Toyota Philippines for their contributions to TMP’s Milestones. Toyota Outstanding Performers in Sales and Service (TOPS) presented these high-achieving MPs and SAs with awards. The following achievers received recognition:


OPS Finest Marketing Professional with TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Masahiro Haoka


TOPS Finest Marketing Professional of the Year – Pamela Jaloro Santos of Toyota Valenzuela, Inc.


TOPS Finest General Job Service Advisers with (L-R) TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Masahiro Haoka

TOPS Finest General Job Service Advisor of the Year– Rodrigo Calimlim Bauzon of Toyota Dagupan


TOPS Finest Body & Paint Service Advisers with (L-R) TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman David Go, TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Masahiro Haoka

TOPS Finest Body and Paint Service Advisor of the Year – Shala Boquirin Suan of Toyota Pasig

“The road to becoming a TOPS awardee had not been an easy one, but your persistence in overcoming all the challenges that come with it had brought you this far,” TMP Vice President for Value Chain and Customer Experience Operations, Mike Masamayor, said.

“It is my earnest hope that you continue to be an inspiration to those around you and remain steadfast in delivering more heart-touching experiences to our customers at the same time.”

Lifestyle, News

Save Huge on Electronics and Home Appliances with Home Credit and SM Appliance Center’s Grand Pay Hulugan Returns with Special Offers

Enjoy a 0% installment rate, up to 30% exclusive discount from Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2024

Alongside the Grand Pay Hulugan promotion, one of the top consumer finance businesses in the nation, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), is once again partnering with SM Appliance Center to bring you amazing savings on a wide range of electronics and home appliances.

This special offer, which is valid from February 1 to March 31, 2024, enables you to upgrade your current appliances and devices or buy the appliances and gadgets of your choice at unbeatable prices, enabling you to achieve your goals. Through this partnership, you may benefit from 0% interest rates on a range of installment payment plans as well as up to 30% off Home Credit-only prices on specific items.

A large range of household and electronic goods are featured in the promotion. Offers are valid on a new television models from Samsung, LG, TCL, Sony, and Skyworth if you’re looking to upgrade your viewing pleasure. Take advantage of this promotion on refrigerators from companies like LG, Panasonic, Condura, Samsung, and Fujidenzo.     

The promo also extends to air-conditioner units, so you can prepare for the upcoming summer season. The promo encompasses brands such as LG, Carrier, Panasonic and Samsung. For your laundry needs, you can seize the opportunity with washing machine brands like LG, Panasonic, Whirlpool, and Samsung. 

Aside from that, the offer includes cooking ranges featuring select items from La Germania, Elba, Fabriano, and Hafele. Additionally, it applies to select Samsung mobile phones, Sony and LG speakers, LG vacuum cleaners, and Whirlpool microwaves. 

The Grand Pay Hulugan promo is available at all SM Appliance Center branches equipped with Home Credit facilities. This way, you will not miss exclusive deals for your dream appliances and electronics. 

Hurry up and visit your nearest SM Appliance Center now! Take advantage of the 0% interest rate on flexible payment options and great discounts from Feb 1 to Mar 31, 2024. Get the appliances and electronics you have been wanting for your home! 

Go to www.homecredit.ph, the official website of Home Credit Philippines, to learn more about the most recent happenings. Additionally, you may follow its official profiles on  Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To find out more about the most recent promotions and to explore what’s new at  Shopping Mall Philippines, customers are also advised to download the  My Home Credit App from Google Play.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have granted Home Credit Philippines the necessary licenses and oversight.

More information on HCPH is available atwww.homecredit.ph.   

Automotive, Sports

Honda Philippines Motorsports 2023: An Examination of a Challenging Year

Here’s a quick summary of the company’s contribution to motorsports in 2023.

The top motorbike manufacturer in the nation, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), had yet another successful year in the motorsports industry. HPI has made significant strides to promote the growth and professionalism of motorsports in both domestic and international on-and off-road championships. In fact, the business succeeded in implementing its goals for On-Road and Off-Road Racing, strengthening its racing brand with initiatives like the Honda Pilipinas Dream Cup. Let’s take a moment to review the noteworthy accomplishments Honda made in 2023 as it works to improve both home and international motorsports.

On Road International Racing.

Aside from MotoGP, one of the most prestigious international motorcycle racing events is Moto2. Somkiat Chantra, a rider with Idemitsu Team Honda Asia from Thailand, finished sixth overall in this event. Ai Ogura, his colleague from Japan, came in a solid ninth place overall. Honda Team Asia competed in the Moto3 class as well. The team included Mario Suryo Aji of Indonesia, who finished 31st overall, and Taiyo Furusato of Japan, who finished the year ranked 16th overall.


Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi
2
nd Place in overall position
Asia Road Racing Championship-ASB1000

Andi Farid Izdihar
3
rd Place in overall position
Asia Road Racing Championship-ASB1000

Besides Moto2 & Moto3, Honda also sponsored a team for the ARRC (Asia Road Racing Championship) in the ASB 1000 Category. For this competition, Team HADR (Honda Asia Dream Racing with Showa) saw Malaysian Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi 2nd in overall position with his teammate Andi Farid Izdihar of Indonesia is in 3rd place overall. Team HADR with Showa team also participated in the Suzuka 8 Hours Challenge where their racers finished in 7th position.


Jett Lawrence
Champion
2023 AMA Pro Motocross 450

Hunter Lawrence
Champion
2023 AMA Pro Motocross 250

5Off-Road International Racing.

For international off-road racing competition, Team Honda HRC riders and brothers Jett and Hunter Lawrence added the AMA Pro Motocross Championship to their list of achievements. Specifically, Jett Lawrence is the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 450 Champion, and the 2023 Rider of the Year was awarded to him using the CRF450R motorcycles, while older brother Hunter Lawrence became the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 250 Champion using the CRF250R motorcycles.

Let’s take a look at how motorsports in 2023 turned out and how Honda has been a part of its evolution in supporting domestic motorsports.

On Road Domestic Racing.

Honda’s “Road to Champion” campaign is the company’s initiative in developing the skills of the next generation of Filipino riders.

One such rider is Jakob Sablaya. Mr. Sablaya participated in the MOTOIR Championship race events. In this race, he placed first overall in both MOTOIR’s Super Sports 300 and MOTOIR 2 GP categories. In both instances, Jakob rode a Honda CBR150R converted to race bike motorcycle.


Alfonsi Daquigan

The 2023 IRGP was another race that was well represented by Honda. In this competition, Alfonsi Daquigan was able to showcase his skill when he took Pole Position for the race.


Jakob Sablaya

Meanwhile, Mr. Sablaya also competed with the later particularly in the race’s Super Sports 300 and MOTOIR2 GP categories. He placed 2nd in the Super Sports 300 category riding a Honda CBR300R and 3rd in the MOTOIR2 GP category riding a Honda CBR150R.

Off-Road Domestic Racing.

On the domestic and exciting off-road side, HPI provided support for its JMS – MOS (Man of Steel) Honda Ride Red Racing Team, as its members competed in the 2023 MotorAce Motocross series. The team consisted of Janelle Saulog who became the Overall Champion in the Ladies Category, while local Motocross legend Jovie Saulog, placed 2nd Overall Champion in the Veterans Category. The Father and daughter tandem let us feel the adrenaline rush in motocross using the CRF motorcycle units. On the other hand, Buboy Antonio, making his presence in local races increases seeing his potential with his determination and skills in off-road riding and with Jing Leongson took 2nd Overall and 3rd Overall Champion in the Expert and Veterans Category, respectively using their CRF250R and CRF450R motorcycles.

The Excitement Continues.

As we look forward to 2024, Honda Philippines, Inc. hopes to further reinforce its involvement in supporting the rider’s development and professionalism in Motorsports. Indeed, HPI already has a head start in this endeavor as the company continues to support Alfonsi Daquigan who recently qualified for the 2024 Asia Talent Cup, and Jakob Sablaya who will ride for SDG Team HARC-PRO Honda PH in the 2024 ARRC, AP250 Category.

More importantly, HPI will keep working to improve both the quality of mobility solutions and the state of On-Road and Off-Road motorsports in the Philippines. This is achieved by giving ambitious Filipino motorsport riders additional chances to hone their divinely endowed skills.

To learn more, go to www.hondaph.com. Follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook (facebook.com/hondaph), Instagram (instagram.com/hondaph_mc/), YouTube (HondaPhilippines_Motorcycle), and Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) to stay up to date on the company’s newest offerings. You can also reach them by calling (02)-8581-6700 to 6799 and 0917-884-6632.

Lifestyle, News

With FutureBoost Retirement, Manulife Philippines and MCBL Encourage More Filipinos to Be “Retire Ready.”

Leading Global Financial Services Provider Launches New Customizable Insurance Product to Help Filipinos Become More Prepared to Reach Their Retirement Goals

FutureBoost Retirement

A Manulife survey* indicates that while most Filipinos understand the value of saving for retirement, just thirty percent really have a strategy in place. The majority depend on bank accounts or cash savings (46%), prospective inheritances from family members (18%), state or federal subsidies (18%), or assistance from their offspring (17%).

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas 2021 Financial Inclusion Survey results, which show that 37% of Filipinos claimed they have some kind of savings, but that their savings are mainly kept at home and in banks and are exclusively allocated for emergencies, further corroborate these findings.

Manulife Philippines and Manulife China Bank Life (MCBL) recently introduced FutureBoost Retirement, a customizable insurance plan that enables people to meet their retirement goals, choose when to receive their retirement funds, and protect themselves from uncertainties, in an effort to help Filipinos better prepare for their retirement future while navigating current financial realities.

“We at Manulife understand that economic challenges, like the threat of inflation and other financial worries and accountabilities, may put constraints on Filipinos’ available resources and energy to take the necessary steps to secure their future,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines. “While they aspire to enjoy life and spend more time with their family, they are concerned that their finances will not be enough to sustain them during their retirement years.”

Hora shared: “Our new retirement product aims to help Filipinos save smarter, live better, and retire ready. It empowers them to build a retirement fund to supplement their savings and other financial products, while offering additional protection for the future. They can better enjoy peace of mind, pursue their passions and live their best life yet, knowing that they have secured financial protection for themselves and their loved ones.”

Build a retirement fund according to your goals

Based on Manulife’s internal research**, 86% of insurance owners surveyed are worried about insufficient retirement funds.

With FutureBoost Retirement, also available to China Bank and China Bank Savings clients through MCBL, Filipinos can optimize their retirement planning through the plan’s unique automatic fund management feature. This allows them to maximize returns in the early years and minimize risks as they approach retirement age, helping them grow their money and build their wealth.

“Through our latest offering, we want to instill more confidence in our customers in reaching their financial goals by going beyond their personal savings and tapping into investment growth opportunities that come with FutureBoost. This way, they may protect their retirement fund from inflation risks, live comfortably, and achieve their aspirations,” said Neil Bowyer, President, MCBL. 

Customers may receive their retirement amount at their target retirement age, and choose when to receive their retirement fund, whether through steady payouts or a lump sum withdrawal.

FutureBoost Retirement also rewards customers with multiple bonuses for paying on time (5% of their basic premium), paying more (2% of basic premium), and being loyal (0.5% or 0.75% of account value). These bonuses will help grow customers’ retirement fund in the long term.

Retirement plan with life protection

Customers and their loved ones can feel more secure with FutureBoost Retirement’s protection riders and life insurance coverage. Customers may consider adding an enhanced critical illness rider, which pays a lump sum amount if the insured is diagnosed with a critical illness, a hospital income benefit, which provides an allowance for each day of hospital confinement to help cover medical expenses and doctor’s fees, among other options, for additional health protection, as 38% of Filipinos surveyed expressed concern about rising healthcare costs.

Visit manulife.com.ph or manulife-chinabank.com.ph to find out more about FutureBoost Retirement.

* Manulife Asia Care Survey

**Manulife’s internal customer research in 2023

Entertainment

Miley Cyrus and Pharrell Williams collaborated on the new song “Doctor (Work It Out)”

Listen here 

Watch the official video here

Together, Miley Cyrus and Pharrell Williams have released the eagerly awaited new tune Doctor (Work It Out).” 

Miley recently won her first GRAMMY Award for “Record of the Year” and “Best Pop Solo Performance” for her popular song “Flowers.” Jacob Bixenman directed the official music video that goes with it.

The award-winning pop artist is shown having fun with her blown up while performing in front of an all-white backdrop in the video.

Pharrell’s second single of the year is “Doctor (Work It Out),” which made its debut during his Louis Vuitton Men’s Fall/Winter show. Earlier in the year, he released a song called Good People with the British rock band Mumford & Sons.

The funky new bop also marks as Miley’s first release since her 2023 single “Used To Be Young.”

In an interview with Apple Music 1’s Zane Lowe, both Miley and Pharrell confirmed that “Doctor (Work It Out)” was initially intended as part of the former’s 2013 album, Bangerz.  

Miley shares, “We just believe so much in timing and in everything happening when it’s supposed to. And around the Grammys, Pharrell and I were talking about putting the song out, and it just felt like it was so serendipitous, and there were so many alignments and so many moments that made me know that now was the perfect time.”

The song Doctor (Work It Out) by Pharrell Williams and Miley Cyrus is currently available via Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.