Monthly Archives

June 2024

Entertainment

The longest-running campus comedy variety show in the Philippines has returned!

U.P. SAMASKOM KICKS OFF LIVE A.I.D.S: HYSTERICAL REVISIONISM Tatlumpu’t Apat na Taon ng Makasaysayang Tawanan, Sayawan at Kimmy-nism


Photo shows [L-R] LIVE AIDS 34 Production Manager and SAMASKOM President Danielle Asuncion, Mrs. Tan, Kaladkaren, and LIVE AIDS 34 Director Bill Barrinuevo

After five (5) years away from the theater scene owing to pandemic limitations, the longest-running comedy variety show from the UP Diliman campus is returned. I am one of those people who is truly excited for this comeback and so happy to witness another fun and thrilling performance from different personalities and seasoned performers. This will surely revive the good old days, where we can just enjoy the night with lots of laughter.

Live A.I.D.S. (Ang Istoryang Dinebelop ng SAMASKOM) or Acts, Improvisations, Dances, and Songs, an annual musical-comedy series produced by the talented student organization UP SAMASKOM, will hold its 34th edition from July 5 to 7 at UP’s Ignacio B. Jimenez – KAL Theater.

LIVE A.I.D.S.: HYSTERICAL REVISIONISM: “Tatlumpu’t Apat na Taon ng Makasaysayang Tawanan, Sayawan at Kimmy-nism” will put a funny but sharp spin on socio-political issues and pop culture, providing witty commentary on Philippine society and adding a comic touch to trending topics and viral content. It promises to make audiences laugh and have fun like never before, with dances and breathtaking production sequences interspersed throughout.

“What started as a mere applicants’ batch project in 1983 is now one of the most awaited events in the Diliman Republic. Each year, Live AIDS always surpasses its previous record number of fans who watch the show,” says Live A.I.D.S Hysterical Revisionism Production Management Mentor, Venice Atienza, who is an alumna of U.P. SAMASKOM and has been part of both the production and creative departments of the show for several years now. 

SAMASKOM alumni fill the local entertainment scene, finding fame in front of or behind the camera. LiveAIDS has given rise to the careers of Kuya Kim Atienza, Giselle Sanchez, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and KaladKaren, among others. 

ABS-CBN’s head of TV Production, Star Magic Chief and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti (Loren) Dyogi and ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services Ned Legaspi are SAMASKOM alumni.

Live AIDS continuously garners fanatics and avid viewers who have steadfastly sought out the show, including known personalities like Bianca Gonzales, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda.

“Live A.I.D.S. and the UP SAMASKOM are platforms where students and alumni members alike are given the opportunity to nurture their talents and skill sets, and essentially nurture them to face the real world,” articulates well-known Filipino drag artist Mrs. Tan, a seasoned dancer and performer of the show.

“This show bolsters one’s talent, skills, and self-confidence. It’s evident in our alumni members,” said Kaldkaren, another UP SAMASKOM alumna and a seasoned performer, veteran writer, production member, and former resident officer.

“With the issues and concerns of the Philippines at present and history distortion as well, it is time to continue the UP SAMASKOM tradition of amusing audiences and making them aware of political and social matters. This year, through the Live AIDS legacy, everyone will hear what Samaskom will say about the current times. This is a show that finds humor on the right side of history”, said Live AIDS Hysterical Revisionism Director, Bill Barrinuevo. 

There is pressure to outdo ourselves every show. This is our comeback show – we want to reawaken our audience as we give them the best show they will ever see. It is terrifying but it is a welcome challenge. UP SAMASKOM is passionate in creating a show that speaks out and entertains at the same time,” he added.

Tickets for Live AIDS Hysterical Revisionism can be purchased at https://liveaids.helixpay.ph. For additional information, visit facebook.com/upsamaskom or follow @upsamaskom on X (Twitter) and Instagram.

Lifestyle

The Philippine Wedding Summit 2024 is back in Makati at a new venue


Couple wedding pictures courtesy of Nice Print Photo, a major sponsor of the event

Themes and Motifs is organizing the nation’s top bridal fair, the Philippine Wedding Summit 2024, which will take place on June 22 and 23 in a new location, SPACE at One Ayala in Makati. This biennial exhibition of the newest fashions and trends is the most extensive collection of wedding vendors in the Philippines, showcasing both talented up-and-coming experts in the wedding business alongside dependable and seasoned professionals.


Church wedding photo courtesy of Nice Print Photo, a major sponsor of the event

A wide range of event specialists, including event stylists, retailers and designers of wedding attire, photographers and videographers, hotels and venues, and more, are expected to be featured in the Philippine Wedding Summit 2024.

This year’s summit also introduces the PWS Specials – exclusive offers, promotions, discounts, add-ons, and more that are available only at the summit. These deals are not accessible anywhere else or at any other time, making it essential for couples to come prepared to secure these special opportunities. Bringing checkbooks and cash for reservation fees and down payments will help soon-to-weds stretch their budgets and take full advantage of these exclusive offers.

Adding to the excitement is the “Book-to-Win Promo,” which encourages soon-to-weds to make on-site bookings during the expo. For every PPHP 2,000 worth of merchandise or services booked on-site from any exhibitor, participants receive one raffle coupon. This increases their chances of winning fantastic prizes, making it beneficial for couples to book as many of their wedding requirements as possible at the event.

Couples who register online on or before June 20, 2024, will be eligible to fill out a raffle coupon at the event and stand a chance to win amazing prizes. This opportunity is exclusive to soon-to-wed couples, adding extra incentive to register early and attend the summit. Register for free entrance on or before June 20, 2024 through www.themesnmotifs.com or www.inspirations.ph.


Sample table set-up from Hizon’s Catering, an official caterer of the event

Sample food serving for the Grand Food Tasting session, courtesy of Richgold Weddings, an official caterer of the event

Sample food serving for the Grand Food Tasting session, courtesy of Josiah’s Catering, an official caterer of the event

Additionally, a Grand Food Tasting session by topnotch wedding banquet experts Hizon’s Catering, Josiah’s Catering, & Richgold Weddings is slated to happen during the 2 – day bridal fair. This will be the best opportunity for soon-to-weds to taste & feel the beauty of their dream wedding and choose the venue and banquet style that suit them best.

Themes & Motifs, the most esteemed bridal fair and wedding expo organizer in the Philippines since 2001, produces and coordinates the Philippine Wedding Summit #BestMidyearBridalFair. Its innovative bridal fairs served as a model for all other bridal fairs and helped propel the extraordinary expansion of the local wedding industry over the previous 20 years. Prominent wedding and celebrity photographer Nice Print Photo, steadily rising to the top of bookings and sales for Goldenhills Jewelry, and a recent addition to the wedding scene, NYXSYS Philippines, a top provider of digital media and business technology solutions in the nation, all sign on as significant sponsors.


The Philippine Wedding Summit 2024 new venue, SPACE at One Ayala, Makati

Make your ideal wedding a reality by attending The Philippine Wedding Summit 2024, which will be held at SPACE at One Ayala on June 23 and 24, 2024, from 11 AM to 8 PM. Don’t miss this opportunity.

See www.themesnmotifs.com for updates and other information.

Entertainment

Barbie Almalbis, Clara Benin, Keiko Necesario, and Sofia Abrogar of Any Names Okay will join ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert

The Alegorya roster has just become bigger!

Barbie Almalbis, Clara Benin, Keiko Necesario, and Sofia Abrogar of Any Names Okay have been announced as special guests for the ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert, which will take place on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at the UP Theater.

Munimuni announced the expanded lineup in a post on their social media sites today.

“For the guest artists, we chose people who the band has been friends with for a long time and are artists that we look up to in the music scene,” the experimental folk band explains in a joint statement. “Some of them have previously collaborated with us, while others are doing so for the first time.” We’re interested to see how they can add a new dimension to our tunes.”

Barbie Almalbis contributed vocals to the recently released album, Alegorya, specifically on the song “Tupa.” Other artists like Clara Benin, Keiko Necesario, and Sofia Abrogar, are frequent collaborators and music friends of the band.

ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert chronicles Munimuni’s current musical journey with bigger production values and more intricate storytelling this time around, and will navigate towards the presentation of their new era. The Filipino indie outfit, which is composed of Adj Jiao (guitar, vocals), John Owen Castro (flute, vocals), Jolo Ferrer (bass), Josh Tumaliuan (drums), and Ben Ayes (guitar), also shared that the concert will be the longest set the band is performing so far.

“It will be an almost 3-hour show. New and old songs will be performed in narrative, following themes the band crafted with the intent of creating a journey for concertgoers to experience.”

ALEGORYA: A Munimuni Concert is sponsored by GNN Entertainment Productions and Munimuni. Tickets are available at bit.ly/alegorya.

Check out the ticket pricing below.

SVIP – ₱2,800 (with Meet and Greet + signed poster + soundcheck access)

VIP – ₱2,500 (with signed poster)

LOWER ORCH – ₱2,000

UPPER ORCH – ₱1,500

LOWER BALC – ₱1,100

UPPER BALC – ₱800

Entertainment

Enchanted Kingdom presents the Flores de Laguna gown competition, showcasing the enchanting Laguna

The Flores de Laguna Gown Competition was held on June 9, Sunday, at Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines. It was held at the EK’s Spaceport Grounds in Santa Rosa Laguna, and it featured the artistry of the Province of Laguna.

Fourteen renowned designers from Calauan, San Pablo City, Sta. participated in the gown competition, which was organized in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Laguna, DTI CALABARZON, and the Laguna Tourism Council. Binan City, San Pedro City, City of Santa Rosa, Pila, Cruz, Bay, Lumban, Cavinti, Mabitac, and Pagsanjan.

“Laguna has been EK’s home for the past three decades and we are proud to be part of a vibrant and deeply-rooted culture. Flores de Laguna is our tribute to the culture and the province’s competitive and world class products. We hope that through this initiative, we will be able to showcase the enchantment of Laguna to all our guests especially those who are visiting the region, ” said Mr. Nico Mamon, EK’s Head of Organization Development and Corporate Planning.

Governor Ramil L. Hernandez expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors to the event’s success. “FLORES DE LAGUNA is not merely a competition but a testament to the excellence and creativity of our fellow Lagunenses. It is also a step towards the vibrant development of our province’s local economy and tourism,” said the Governor.

Mark Francis Pacion of San Pablo emerged as the grand winner for his creation using coconut bark cloth material emphasizing the value of San Pablo City’s famous coconuts. Pacion’s creation was inspired by the mystical aura of San Pablo City’s  Seven Lakes.. Jessycris Baduel of Lumban and Jeffrey Tope of Pila bagged the first and second runner up, respectively. Winners were judged based on their creation’s concept and cohesiveness of design, originality, creativity and design innovation, overall look and impact, commercial viability, and audience impact.

In addition to the more than thirty rides and attractions, visitors enjoyed the Likhang Laguna trade fair, which featured a variety of exhibitors showcasing the vast assortment of food and non-food products available in the province.

Visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media pages @ek_philippines on Twitter and Instagram and @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and Tiktok for additional details and updates on this event and EK’s other forthcoming events and offers.

Food

Jollibee Group and QC LGU’s Inclusive Jobs Program to Benefit Senior Citizens and People with Disabilities


Partners for Equal Employment Opportunity. The Jollibee Group and the Quezon City (QC) Local Government Unit signed a Memorandum of Agreement to provide employment opportunity to qualified senior citizens and persons with disabilities in Q.C. Mayor Joy Belmonte (4th from L) led the signatories from the QC LGU, while Jollibee Group signatories was led by Ruth Angeles, Head for Philippines HR (3rd from R).

The Jollibee Group, in collaboration with the Quezon City local government, is offering an inclusive job initiative that will help nearly 200 senior citizens (SC) and individuals with disabilities (PWDs). In Quezon City, there will be more than fifty Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King locations for qualified SC and PWD workers to choose from.

The Jollibee Group and the Quezon City local government unit (LGU), headed by Mayor Joy Belmonte, recently formalized their cooperation with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).

“We support the local government of Quezon City in advancing the welfare of our elderly and persons with disabilities. Through this partnership, we honor their invaluable role in our society. We aim to give those who have the capacity and desire to work the opportunity to help spread joy to customers,” said Ruth Angeles, Vice President and Head, Global Organization, Leadership, and Culture, and Head for Philippines HR, Jollibee Group.

In her message during the signing ceremony, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte underscored the importance of partnerships with institutions like the Jollibee Group in promoting the well-being and dignity of SCs and PWDs through equal employment opportunities. “We thank the Jollibee Group for this gesture, which is a sign that they are with us in our crusade towards inclusivity. For us in Quezon City, progress must be inclusive; everyone must be part of our progress.”

“Age is just a number and a mindset, and we should not allow our age or our disability to be an obstacle to what we can contribute to our nation-building. I thank the Jollibee Group for taking away the obstacles that are preventing our SCs and PWDs from being active members of our workforce,” Mayor Belmonte added.

Interested SCs and PWDs can go to the Quezon City Public Employment Service Office (PESO) to help them with the requirements. They must also secure a fit-to-work certification from the Quezon City Health Department before they can proceed with the initial job screening by the City’s Social Services Department and the Persons with Disability Affairs Office.

The LGU will recommend SCs and PWDs to the Jollibee Group for employment in a limited number of company-owned stores in Quezon City after they meet the requirements. As guest relations employees, qualified SCs and PWDs can support store teams in serving patrons at the counter and dining areas.

“This partnership is consistent with Jollibee Group’s commitment to providing equal employment opportunities to different sectors and promoting inclusivity and diversity in the workplace. We are looking forward to partnering with other LGUs so we can find qualified individuals to join us in our mission of spreading the joy of eating to everyone,” Angeles added.

To carry out this inclusive employment program, the Jollibee Group has collaborated with the provincial government of Rizal, the municipal governments of Manila, Antipolo, Muntinlupa, and Pasig, in addition to Quezon City.

Advancing the Welfare of SCs and PWDs. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte underscores the importance of partnerships with institutions like the Jollibee Group in promoting the well-being and dignity of SCs and PWDs through equal employment opportunities.

Promoting an Inclusive Workplace. Since 2019, the Jollibee Group has partnered with various local government units in promoting an inclusive workplace where qualified SCs and PWDs can have the opportunity to join the Jollibee Group in its mission to serve great-tasting food, bringing the joy of eating to everyone.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

Lifestyle

This weekend, Power Mac Center is offering “Super Deals for Super Dads”

Nationwide Power Mac Center (PMC) locations are getting ready for a joyous weekend honoring all fathers and father figures. It’s time to spoil them with unexpected delights!

The top Apple partner is hosting an exclusive event called “Super Deals for Super Dads,” complete with big savings on Apple products, high-end accessories, and services, free shipping, and a chic makeover as well as other surprises.

“Dads are often the resident techie in the family, so it will be a nice surprise to turn the tables and have them on the receiving end. We’re making it easier for our customers to find gift ideas that thoughtfully encapsulate their gratitude for Dad not just on Father’s Day but always,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management.

Treat Dad to a stylish makeover with an exclusive voucher from Bruno’s Barbers. Simply make a purchase on June 16, 2024 at the new Power Mac Center Apple Premium Partner store in SM Megamall. This offer is valid until voucher supplies last.

From June 14-16, 2024, customers can enjoy as much as P19,500 off on select Apple devices and 20% off on select premium accessories from LAUT, ADAM elements, Rivacase, SwitchEasy, JTLegend, and Jabra in all PMC and The Loop retail stores. 

Deals on Apple devices and accessories include:

  • Get P19,500 off on the 13-inch MacBook Air M1 256GB for straight cash or card payments.
  • Get up to P17,000 off on select iPhone models for straight cash or card payments.
  • Get P2,500 off on AirPods (2nd generation) with Charging Case for straight cash or card payments.

Discounted accessories include but are not limited to:

  • Jabra Elite 7 Pro True Wireless Earphones (Discounted Price: P9,340)
  • JTLegend Hybrid Cushion Case for iPhone 15 (Discounted Price: P872)
  • SwitchEasy EasyPencil Pro 4 (Discounted Price: P3,032)

PMC’s official service arm, Mobile Care, is also offering 10% off on diagnosis, software fixes, and non-repair services for Apple devices in all its service centers for a limited time only.

Over at the official The Loop by Power Mac Center store on Shopee, customers can check out their favorite items and enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend from June 15-17, 2024.

BDO Credit Cardholders can enjoy exclusive discounts on select Apple devices when they purchase with their BDO Credit Card at any Power Mac Center or The Loop stores until July 15, 2024. Offers include:

  • Get up to P9,500 off on the iPhone 15 Pro series when you purchase with your BDO Credit Card at 0% installment for up to 24 months. Pay 3 months later
  • Get up to P4,000 off on select iPad (9th generation) models when you purchase with your BDO Credit Card at 0% installment for up to 24 months. Pay 3 months later.

‘Road to 30’ celebration, raffle

Power Mac Center first opened shop in the Philippines in 1994 to bring Apple technology closer to Filipinos. As a premium partner, PMC offers the complete Apple experience covering retail, training, education, and service. Now, it is in over 100 locations nationwide and online to help customers easily upgrade their tech devices for work and play. For a quick recap of PMC’s past 30 years, watch here.

There’s a “Road to 30” event going on, leading up to a major raffle where 30 lucky patrons will win brand-new cars—BYD ATTO 3 electric vehicles, Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles credits, Apple devices, gift cards, and high-end accessories—among the prizes.

Customers can enter the “Miles and Milestones: The 30th Anniversary Raffle” by becoming a member of PMC’s loyalty club, 1 Infinite. Here, creating an account is simple and cost-free. After registering, get raffle tickets by spending at least P30,000 on a single receipt at any Power Mac Center or The Loop location nationwide or on PMC’s official website, powermaccenter.com. From May 31, 2024, to August 31, 2024, is the promotional period. There are terms and conditions. On September 13, 2024, the winners will be revealed on the official PMC social media platforms.

Keep yourself informed about the most recent anniversary events by subscribing to PMC’s official FacebookInstagramXTikTokViber, and YouTube accounts. 

Food

Breville names a Filipino barista champion as their brand ambassador


Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

Even though the Philippines is located in the “Bean Belt,” an equatorial region made up of the world’s largest coffee-growing nations, it is still lagging behind the rise of a revolutionary movement that is redefining the Filipino people’s relationship to a cup of coffee.

However, there is still time for this country to solidly establish its own coffee culture, in which the vast majority of people, if not all of them, have a general understanding and appreciation of this beloved beverage in addition to their strong familiarity with, exposure to, and use of the available technologies in the market to make a cup of coffee.

With this in mind, IAJ Wellness Corporation (IAJWC), the exclusive distributor of Breville in the Philippines, has officially signed up multi-awarded barista and famed content creator Vanessa Maclang Caceres as the country’s ambassadress of the leading small kitchen appliances brand from Australia.

Impressed by the rich and mature coffee culture of various countries, IAJWC President Cris Llamo dreams of replicating such trends locally, where Filipinos do not merely drink coffee but dive deep into the art and appreciation of its unique flavors and origins.

“Hence, our partnership is aimed at raising more awareness on coffee culture and appreciation in the country,” she said during their contract signing held recently in Makati City.

“We want to be in the forefront of educating the people about Third Wave Coffee. That’s why we really want Vanessa to become our ambassadress because her vast knowledge of the industry will be of big help to elevate the peoples’ understanding of specialty coffee,” added Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Food & Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager at Breville Philippines.

Being an ambassadress, Ms. V (her online monicker) or Mamita (as fondly called by her colleagues) will mainly help promote the brand’s coffee category, plus other kitchen appliances through her social media contents. With her new role, she will also work closely with the brand in equipping the frontliners, which include promo merchandisers, with the most up-to-date knowledge about specialty coffee in order for them to effectively sell Breville products to customers.

“Transfer of knowledge should not go wrong. We want to make sure that our people who interact with the customers are saying the right things about coffee and how best to enjoy it using Breville products. So it’s important to have somebody like Ms. Vanessa, who’s been in the industry for a long time—19 years to be exact. There’s a wealth of information and experience that we can learn from her,” Llamo said.

“Through her hands-on training, we also believe that we will be able to foster a deeper appreciation for Breville products, especially the espresso machine category,” Flores added.

Elated by their confidence, Caceres is very thankful of their partnership. She quipped: “I’m happy that they trust me with this partnership. I’m really grateful to train their frontliners and share my knowledge on Third Wave Coffee to other people.”


Breville Philippines’ PR Agency Partner CatPR Head Nadine Tan, Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

Breville Philippines started to tap her in March 2023 for Women’s Month using the Breville Bambino Plus. Little did she know that her first encounter with this small espresso machine would make her a firm believer and, eventually, ambassadress of the brand. She said: “It’s not like other similar products, wherein everyone can pull a shot of espresso. No one can do steamed milk that is much better than Breville.”

Caceres adores the company because of its vast assortment of inventive goods that not only solve the difficulties involved in brewing coffee, but also handle issues related to the entire kitchen. Their functionalities and designs complement one another, meeting the needs of every customer.

Despite Breville’s premium brand positioning, the endless possibilities it offers purchasers make it well worth the expense. It seems sense that Vanessa now always has it in the kitchen.

“It’s really a part of my daily life. Once you have it in your kitchen, you cannot stop using it. That’s why you really get your money’s worth,” she stressed.

Automotive

Work on a new Toyota dealership in Tugbok, Davao, has begun


Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations Ms. Elijah Marcial, TMP Vice President for Dealer Development Ms. Lyna Garcia, TMP Marketing Division Senior Vice President Mr. Masahiro Haoka, Toyota Cagayan de Oro, Inc. (TCO) Chairman Mr. Peter Lim Lo Suy, TMP Marketing Division Executive Vice President Mr. Jing Atienza, Tugbok Proper Barangay Captain Hon. Wilfredo Anfone, TMP President Mr. Masando Hashimoto, TCO President Ms. Betty Lu, Toyota Davao City, Inc. (TDC) Chairman Mr. Boyet Lim, TCO Executive Doc. Nancy Ramirez, TDC President Ms. Denise Lim, TCO Executive Mr. Eric Uy, and TMP Vice President for Customer Service Operations Mr. Jeff Matsuo.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) has announced the groundbreaking of Toyota Tugbok, Davao, confirming the construction of a new Toyota dealership in Mindanao.

When it is finished, the future Toyota dealership in Davao del Sur will be the third location in Davao metropolis, serving drivers in the largest metropolis in Mindanao as well as other neighboring towns.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, TMP President Masando Hashimoto said, “Davao City is one of the most progressive and promising areas in the Philippines sustaining elevated levels of economic growth. The presence of Service, Manufacturing, and Agriculture sectors shows that this city will continue to boost the economy and create livelihood.”

“With this positive outlook, Toyota Motor Philippines would like to provide the community with the improved mobility of people, goods and services by establishing another Toyota dealership in Davao City,” he added.

As a three-star dealership, Toyota Tugbok, Davao will sell Toyota automobiles and provide after-sale support and spare parts. The dealership will offer the highest caliber of service and have a contemporary design that will foster a welcoming environment.

Stay up to date with Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on X, and the ToyotaPH community on Viber for the most recent information on Toyota goods, services, events, and promotions.

Food, Lifestyle

The Jollibee Group Backs the Waste Recovery Campaign of LLDA


Partnership for the Planet. The Jollibee Group has pledged support to the LLDA’s waste recovery program to help mitigate the adverse effects of plastic waste on Laguna de Bay. Photo by LLDA.

By sponsoring environmentally conscious initiatives like the Laguna Lake Development Authority’s (LLDA) “Abot-Kamay Para sa Laguna de Bay: Mission in Action–Solid Waste Recovery,” the Jollibee Group is demonstrating its continued commitment to environmental stewardship.

In observance of Earth Day 2024, the LLDA carried out a solid waste collection operation in Barangay Sucat, Muntinlupa City, on April 30, 2024. This year’s Earth Day, with the theme “Planet vs. Plastics,” called for more worldwide awareness and initiatives to cut plastic manufacturing by 60%. The LLDA has continuously backed these kinds of environmental projects and concentrated on reducing the negative impacts that plastic waste has on Laguna de Bay and the ecosystems that surround it.

“The Abot-Kamay campaign not only exemplifies a localized response to a global crisis but also serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a cleaner and healthier Laguna de Bay for future generations,” said LLDA Acting General Manager Atty. Senando Santiago.

The Jollibee Group sent employee-volunteers from select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King to participate in the said waste recovery activity. In addition, the Company also provided meals to all 200 volunteers from different organizations.

Pepot Miñana Jr., Jollibee Group Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer, underscored the importance of the Company’s active participation in these initiatives as a manifestation of its global sustainability agenda called Joy for Tomorrow: “As stewards of our environment, we recognize that our commitment to sustainability extends beyond the confines of our facilities, and requires collective action from all stakeholders. Participating in lake clean-up drives is a tangible expression of our dedication to preserving natural resources and safeguarding the communities we serve. This collaboration with local organizations and the government amplifies our impact and cultivates a shared sense of responsibility for our planet.”


Jollibee Group Employee Volunteers. Some 100 employee-volunteers from Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King joined the clean-up of Laguna de Bay in Sucat, Muntinlupa City. The Jollibee Group also provided meals for all the 200 volunteers from different organizations.
 

Employee volunteers for the planet

Fostering a behavior of shared responsibility for the environment is an essential part of Jollibee Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

Since 2023, the Jollibee Group, through its corporate development arm the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc., has implemented a mangrove reforestation program with a string of tree-planting activities held in several coastal provinces.

In Lemery, Batangas, and along the coastlines of Alaminos, Pangasinan, and Carmen, Cebu, more than 200 employee-volunteers from the company’s operations, manufacturing, and logistics divisions—which include the brands Jollibee, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon—planted 2,250 mangrove propagules and 1,700 mangrove seedlings.

Employees of the Jollibee Group and local JGF implementation partners planted about 1,400 mangrove propagules at the Bued Mangrove Ecopark in Alaminos, Pangasinan, on May 9, 2024.


Beyond Spreading Joy. Jollibee Group employee-volunteers signed their pledge of dedication in support of LLDA’s solid waste recovery program. Many employees of the Jollibee Group are active ambassadors of the planet, actively participating in various initiatives that help protect the environment.

The Jollibee Group will keep encouraging staff volunteerism to assist different environmental preservation and protection programs and activities in the future.

“We hope that through employee volunteerism and engagement, we can inspire more partners and customers worldwide to embrace environmental stewardship and create changes that will positively impact the people and the planet,” Miñana added.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

Entertainment, Lifestyle

At Ortigas Malls, Independence Day honors Filipino musicians, culture, and heroes

Araw ng Kalayaan, or Independence Day, honors the heroes of the past and present who have battled for the freedom of the Filipino people. Ortigas Malls has planned a number of events and activities that celebrate our rich cultural heritage and history as we approach the yearly vacation.

Shoppers shouldn’t miss the amazing Independence Day activities that GH Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia will be kicking off on June 12:

Greenhills

Starting at 10am, GH Mall will hold a Pagtaas ng Watawat (flag-raising ceremony) at the East Wing Atrium of GH Mall. A Marching Band will also energize shoppers at 12pm.

From 3pm to 6pm, there will be an entertaining and educational Likhang Sining at Kalayaan presentation by the Tanghalang Tula, Kundiman at Katutubong Sayaw. This wonderful display of talent will highlight our beloved Filipino culture through different facets of art.

Shoppers can also marvel at the extraordinary Philippine flag display at GH Mall made out of 1,400 origami flowers courtesy of Origami Philippines. The origami flowers symbolize the enduring bonds and deep-rooted friendships that define Filipino culture. Feel free to take photos in front of the display and share it on social media!

Tiendesitas

Known for being a home of local goods and handicrafts, Tiendesitas is celebrating Independence Day with a whole day of musical performances. Start the day off with a heart-thumping Marching Band performance at Level 1, Food Village from 10am to 11:30am. Musika’t Kalayaan at Level 2, Food Village will delight shoppers with Filipino tunes from 3pm to 9pm.

Estancia

Estancia Mall will also showcase local music for its Independence Day celebration. From 10am to 7pm, shoppers can sing and dance to their favorite P-pop songs at the P-Pop Music Fest: Hiraya at 2/F East Wing. They can also catch the Independence Day Marching Band performance on the ground floor of the East Wing from 11am to 12pm. 

See these lively and patriotic celebrations if you want to spend your Independence Day at Ortigas Malls. Make sure to use the Ortigas Malls app to register for the Ortigas Community Card in order to have first access to incredible offers, savings, and benefits.

Make sure to like and visit the Greenhills Mall, Estancia Mall, and Tiendesitas official Facebook sites for additional details and updates on the activities held by Ortigas Malls.