Gaming phones are typically recognized for their robust design and powerful specifications, which guarantee the smooth operation of high-graphic mobile games. However, things have changed, and the Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ Series, the slimmest gaming phone in the curved screen category, is set to prove that gamers can play on a slim phone which it launches on October 28, 2024.
Infinix, one of the leading tech companies in the Philippines, is well-known for producing gaming phones that are both high-quality and reasonably priced, making them available to all. With a stylish design and a potent gaming chip priced around P9,000, the HOT 50 Pro+ Series is the newest in offering consumers a flawless gaming experience. Additionally, Infinix partnered with the well-known MOBA game Honor of Kings (HOK) to provide players with an exceptional gaming experience.
Slimmest gaming phone
The Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ boasts a 6.8mm slim and durable body made with TitanWing Architecture. It is the world’s slimmest gaming phone with a curved screen, which offers crystal-clear visuals. The compact design ensures that the phone fits snugly in users’ hands while playing, and makes it easier to carry around everywhere.
Unmatched durability
As mentioned, the Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ Series’ body is made with TitanWing Architecture to make it sturdy and durable. It’s built with a Corning Gorilla Glass for protection against sudden drops, scratches, and bends. This advanced glass tech not only ensures lasting durability, but also a high-quality viewing experience for users. Plus, its five-year TÜV Fluency Certification ensures smooth performance.
With its IP54 certification, the HOT 50 Pro+ has added protection, enhanced with Wet & Greasy Touch Precision, and a battery built to last for four years. The HOT 50 Pro+ Series can withstand daily challenges while preserving its sleek design.
Strongest gaming chip
Powered by the MEDIATEK Helio G100 Gaming Chipset with up to 16GB Extended RAM, the Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ can handle various games, providing fast gameplay and beautiful visuals in every round. It has an eSports-level touch and pinpoint sound accuracy for seamless multitasking, gaming, and overall everyday use.
Awesome Honor of Kings collaboration
Infinix’s collaboration with Honor of Kings gives fans the chance to experience the 5v5 MOBA using the HOT 50 Pro+ Series. With its powerful performance and immersive visuals, users can enjoy matches, and also feel comfortable playing with its slim yet sturdy body. The smartphone is also built with gaming efficiency with HOK, so fans can grind matches without any hitches. Each Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ Series box set includes HOK Cards with a special QR code that users can scan for a chance to win in-game prizes.
The Infinix HOT 50 Pro+ is changing the way people think about gaming phones with its sleek design and unparalleled performance that make customers say “WOOOW.” For more information, visit the official Infinix website and follow the Infinix Philippines Facebook page, TikTok, and Facebook Community page. Filipino gamers will soon be able to purchase this awesome new gadget.
Renewed partnership launches programs supporting girls’ mental health and career development
Executives from Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons and Plan International renewed their partnership and signed a declaration of support as a continuing commitment to the agenda of accelerating social change for young women.
In photo from left to right Watsons Group Senior Category Manager, Zyra Tino ObiasPlan International Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion, Twyla David Watsons Director for People Innovations Projects, Jose Arriola Beiersdorf Sales Director, Jacques Baisa Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia Plan International Executive Director, Ana Maria Locsin Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain Plan International Program Director, Cathy Seco Beirsdorf Head of Route to Markets, Josefa Manese
Girls hold the power to shape a brighter, more inclusive future—but far too many are held back by enduring biases and barriers that silence their voices, leave them isolated, and restrict their ability to realize their full potential. As the world celebrates the international Day of the Girl (IDG), there is a rousing call to action to create a world where girls are supported, included, and empowered to dream beyond limits.
Heeding this call, Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas reaffirmed their partnership to intensify initiatives toward the upliftment of girls in the country.
Working side by side for two years now, the tripartite collaboration unites the members’ respective focus into a joint agenda charged to accelerate social change for young women. From last year’s programs and discussions about girl’s rights, gender equality, equitable and quality health services and economic resilience, the partnership expands their programs to include pressing concerns on understanding the disempowering impact of social isolation among girls, promoting mental health and wellbeing, as well as creating pathways for career development.
As a brand that cares beyond skin, NIVEA of Beiersdorf, advocates for an inclusive society and aims to foster social cohesion through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT. Addressing the rise of social isolation among young women is critical because loneliness and lack of social connection increase their vulnerability to social injustices and hinder their overall development.
Beauty retailer Watsons, on the other hand, aims to inspire holistic wellbeing, positivity and acts of care and kindness towards people, communities, and the planet. Part of its Sustainability goals under the People Pillar are their efforts to provide scholarships and career opportunities for the youth.
Meanwhile, Plan International Pilipinas, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines has been at the forefront of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls since 1961. According to Plan International Pilipinas, girls’ mental health is one of the core foundations for their success and well-being. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, they empower themselves to thrive in both their careers and personal lives. Moreover, advocating for girls’ overall wellness is part of its agenda for girls’ rights and empowerment. It encourages them to exercise their rights, prioritize their overall health, and shape their futures.
For their IDG celebration, the three organizations mounted an event entitled “From Isolation to Inclusion: Empowering Girls, Shaping Futures,” that brought various stakeholders delivering learning modules on financial literacy, digital literacy, and career guidance to help girls from Punlaan School prepare for the future of work and navigate livelihood opportunities and professional empowerment.
Beiersdorf Philippines Country Manager Nimisha Jain in her opening remarks said, “NIVEA’s CARE BEYOND SKIN Sustainability Agenda is guiding all our actions across three critical areas: consumer, society and environment, forming a holistic approach. We want to “Care beyond Skin” by empowering women so that they can thrive. She also shared findings from a NIVEA global study on social isolation which revealed that young people between 16-24 (38%), hybrid workers (52%), and heavy social media users (34%) feel the most isolated in society. She explained that breaking the cycle of social isolation entails building connections, fostering community, and having access to mental health resources, which are key components of NIVEA CONNECT.
“This partnership today is a perfect example of all three elements coming together. I am confident that with our willing & committed partners, we can make a meaningful impact to empowering young women and transition them from Isolation to Inclusion”
For the panel discussion, Beiersdorf Philippines Sales Director Jacques Baisa, Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR and Sustainability, Sharon Decapia, and Plan International Pilipinas Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion Twyla David dived deep into social isolation – how it has disadvantaged girls for centuries, interventions and solutions needed to stop the stigma, and how communities can create a support system for those in need.
The event culminated with the turnover of the Php 1 million donation from Beiersdorf Philippines for the continuation of Watsons and Punlaan School Apprenticeship Program where students are trained with a TESDA certified curriculum to gain skills needed to succeed in the health and beauty retail space. Participants are also assured of a permanent job as Pharmacy Assistants in Watsons after they successfully complete the program.
Lastly, the tripartite partnership was renewed in a MOA signing and formal declaration of support, reinforcing the institutions’ continued collaborative efforts.
Watsons SAVP Sharon Decapia pointed out, “At Watsons, we understand that our responsibilities go beyond helping people care for their health and bring out their innate beauty. For us to be able to help girls become the best version of themselves, we have to open up avenues for learning and understanding what the future will be like, and what issues can affect them. This is what we have been doing with our partners – we are preparing them to be capable leaders of their families and communities.”
Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Ana Maria Locsin said, “Today, we stand united with Beiersdorf and Watsons in our shared commitment to transforming the lives of Filipino girls and young women. The theme of this year’s partnership event on social isolation resonates deeply with our mission of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls in the country.”
“Gender equality and inclusion serve as powerful tools for understanding the barriers that prevent girls from accessing quality education, livelihood opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making. We firmly believe that when girls are empowered and included, they envision brighter futures for themselves and become catalysts for change, helping shape a world where we are all equal.”
For NIVEA, the fight against social isolation goes beyond the Philippines as it looks to set up local NIVEA CONNECT projects with partners in forty countries by 2026. All its efforts are in service of Beiersdorf’s long-term commitment to champion a more inclusive society.
Hello Glow, a popular skincare brand on Tiktok that draws inspiration from K-beauty, just released its latest revolutionary product, the Hello Glow 3-in-1 Retinol Serum. This serum is poised to make waves in the local skincare industry because it is designed to combat the signs of aging and give you radiant, youthful skin!
Why Retinol?
A potent component that has been shown by science to lessen wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots is retinol, a type of vitamin A. It promotes cell regeneration, enhances the texture of your skin, and aids in the production of collagen.
According to Hello Glow brand founder, Denice Sy, “we have always been committed to providing our customers with innovative, dermatologist tested, and effective skincare solutions to help them literally say ‘hello to their glow!’“
Therefore, she felt “our latest venture into the retinol space felt like a natural extension to Hello Glow’s product portfolio.”
Hello Glow’s 3-in-1 Retinol Serum
Unlike other retinol formulas in the market, Hello Glow’s 3-in-1 Retinol Serum is formulated with Retilift Technology, a proprietary technology that ensures effective penetration of retinol into the skin, maximizing its anti-aging benefits!
Formulated with a potent blend of actives that work synergistically to deliver exceptional results. Skin will feel plumper and firmer, and brighter and clearer! Its hero ingredients include:
Retinol
Bakuchiol – a plant-based alternative to retinol. When used together with retinol. bakuchiol has been shown to boost the powerful anti-aging benefits of retinol to further reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin tone.
Squalane – A naturally occurring lipid that provides intense hydration and helps to strengthen the skin barrier.
For optimal results, apply a few drops of the Hello Glow 3-in-1 Retinol Serum to clean, dry skin at night. Start by using it every other night and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts. Pair it with your favorite moisturizer or Hello Glow’s soothing gel for added hydration. Remember to use sunscreen in the morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Where to shop
Hello Glow’s official Shopee, Tiktok, and Lazada stores offer the Hello Glow 3-in-1 Retinol Serum 30ml (Php 180) for purchase online.
It is also sold in physical places across the country, such as SM Beauty Department and Watsons. shops, Savemore, SM Hypermarket, Puregold, SM Supermarkets, and other top retail establishments in the country!
Grow your family, grow your future. Quality homes designed for families by Nurtura Land and Home.
A crucial first step toward stability is locating a house that can accommodate your expanding family’s fluctuating requirements and financial constraints. With its mid-range housing brand, Nurtura Land and Home, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), a real estate developer based in Mindanao, has responded to these demands.
Nurtura Land and Home provides well-thought-out and skillfully built homes that put quality, cost-effectiveness, and adaptive design first because it understands how important it is to build homes that can accommodate changing living standards and offer good value.
“Drawing from decades of experience in developing thriving communities in Davao City, Alsons Dev takes pride in creating spaces where families with diverse aspirations and lifestyles can thrive. Our Nurtura brand embodies this promise with family-centric designs that ensure safety, comfort, and great value, providing the perfect environment for families to grow and flourish,” said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Dominguez.
Narra Park Residences: Where efficient planning meets quality living
Narra Park Residences, the maiden project of Nurtura Land & Home by Alsons Dev, was recognized as the Best Housing Development in Metro Davao at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards for both 2023 and 2024.
Narra Park Residences stands tall as a testament to Alsons Dev’s vision of creating harmonious living spaces at an accessible price point.
Recently recognized as the Best Housing Development in Mindanao at the 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, Narra Park Residences Avia continues Alsons Dev’s commitment to providing vibrant living spaces for more families in the SOX Region.
Its counterpart, Narra Park Residences Avia, which is located within SOCCSKSARGEN’s very first mixed-use development, Avia Estate in Alabel, Sarangani, also carries the signature qualities of Alsons Dev’s residential communities under its Nurtura brand.
The variety of housing units for both Nurtura projects—from bungalows to two-story homes—cater to diverse preferences and family needs. These homes feature compact yet space-efficient layouts to maximize functionality and ensure every square foot is usable. Also, the generous lot sizes allow for a garage and garden, ideal for growing families.
“It all begins with strategic space planning,” says Tricia A. Dizon, a Makati-based interior decorator with whom Alsons Dev frequently collaborates. “Alsons Dev’s in-house planners put a lot of thought into the future homeowners’ needs and preferences. We work together to conceptualize and determine the purpose of each space and how prospective buyers intend to use it in everyday living. This becomes our guiding star in creating functional and efficient homes tailored for future homeowners.”
Alsons Dev’s commitment to efficient planning also extends to construction quality. Every project undergoes rigorous inspections, ensuring each home meets the highest safety standards.
“Alsons Dev’s commitment to excellence is evident from concept to execution,” said Greric Santos, proprietor of Greco Construction who worked on the Narra Park Residence projects in Davao and Sarangani. “I can vouch for their high standards for quality because I see how their Construction Management team enforces them rigorously on contractors like myself.”
Designed for a balanced lifestyle
Nurtura Land and Home builds communities that go beyond just homes, offering expansive outdoor spaces for today’s modern families
Beyond developing houses, Narra Park Residences in Davao and Avia Estate also offer a community-centric environment. Both developments feature expansive green spaces and large parks that encourage social interaction. Family-friendly amenities like pools and multi-purpose courts not only promote an active lifestyle within the neighborhood but also foster a sense of belonging and connection.
The resident’s safety and peace of mind are given top priority, as seen in the 24/7 guarded entrance, perimeter walls, and dual gates that double as access points to essential establishments. In the case of Narra Park Residences Avia, a public safety and security complex that integrates police, fire, and emergency response stations is being built close to the residential area, ensuring a secure and peaceful living environment.
Arch. Patrick Tan, Principal Architect of PCTAN Architects and Associates and longtime collaborator of Alsons Dev attests, “We are proud to partner with Alsons Dev in creating vibrant communities. Our collaboration has led to the design of amenities that foster social connections, enrich residents’ lives, and serve the larger community, like the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex in Avia Estate. Alsons Dev’s commitment to thoughtful development sets a high standard for the industry.”
Nurturing generations with lasting homes
Providing outstanding living experiences to the mid-cost market through Nurtura Land & Home, Alsons Dev solidifies its leadership in Mindanao real estate through people-centric developments and well planned communities like Narra Park Residences.
Visit the Nurtura Land & Home website at https://nurtura.ph/ to learn more about Alsons Dev’s mid-cost housing projects and to begin your path to homeownership.
Halsey, a genre-bending musician and GRAMMY® nominee, released The Great Impersonator, her eagerly awaited fifth studio album. Listen HERE. Halsey released “I Never Loved You,” “Ego,” “Lonely is the Muse,” “Lucky,” and “The End” earlier this year as a preview of the album.
The New York Times named the album a Critic’s Pick, Rolling Stone gave it four stars and called it Halsey’s “rawest, darkest incarnation yet,” NME gave it a perfect score of five out of five and called it “brilliant,” and CLASH hailed it as “extraordinary, a complex work of towering ambition.”
To visually interpret her new album, Halsey and Vevo partnered for a Vevo Official Live Performance to create four meticulously designed videos that each encapsulate a different musical decade. The series kicks off today in the 70’s for “Panic Attack,” with Halsey clad in a Stevie Nicks-inspired dress sourced from one of LA’s most iconic wardrobe rental houses. Watch the video HERE.
In celebration for the release, Halsey will have a special performance tonight, Friday, October 25, at Brooklyn Paramount in Brooklyn, NY and Sunday, October 27, at Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater in Austin, TX where she will perform the album in its entirety. On October 31, Halsey will take the stage for a special Halloween episode for the third season of Amazon Music Live. See more info HERE.
Halsey began revealing her impersonations of different icons every day earlier this month in anticipation of the album, teasing a little bit of the song they inspired. Her impersonations of Dolly Parton, PJ Harvey, Kate Bush, and others can be found HERE.
With all four of her prior albums being RIAA-Certified, Halsey has accumulated over 50 billion worldwide streams and over 75 million RIAA-Certified adjusted singles. She is one of the few musicians in history to have two RIAA-Certified-Diamond records and five separate songs reach one billion Spotify plays.
The much-anticipated PBA Governors’ Cup Finals between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and TNT Tropang Giga kicked off with a bang, drawing a massive crowd to the Ynares Center in Antipolo City. A total of 11,021 fans attended Game One of between Barangay Ginebra and TNT – the largest PBA crowd in the venue.
The game, which saw TNT dominate Ginebra 104-88, was a testament to the league’s enduring popularity.
PACKED TO THE RAFTERS
The Ynares Center was filled to capacity, with fans from both teams creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere. The passionate crowd cheered on their respective teams, adding to the intensity of the game. The huge turnout underscored the intense rivalry between Ginebra and TNT, two of the most popular teams in the PBA.
BARANGAY GINEBRA AND TNT TROBANG GIGA RIVALRY
The high attendance for Game 1 is a promising sign for the rest of the series. With both teams boasting talented rosters and passionate fan bases, the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals is expected to be one of the most exciting and competitive series in recent years.
The crowd attendance surpassed the previous high of 10,952 set on December 21, 2011 during a quarterfinal doubleheader between Barangay Ginebra and Rain or Shine, and Petron and Meralco during the 2011-12 Philippine Cup.
Long time PBA fan Marlon Estrada who came with his wife Eloisa enjoyed the action-packed Game 1 even if his PBA team San Miguel Beer is not playing for contention. “Thankful ako kasi yung finals ng PBA nandito sa Ynares Center. Malapit sa amin sa Teresa and tamang-tama, Sunday ngayon kaya parang date na din namin. Masaya akong nakitang enjoy ang asawa ko kasi first time din nyang nakanood ng PBA” shared Estrada.
Rizalenyos and PBA fans from nearby provinces and even cities braved the traffic going to the venue. The PBA Game 1 tickets between Barangay Ginebra and TNT Tropang Giga were selling like hot cakes and PBA fans can be seen entering the Ynares Center even after the start of the game.
Incidentally, Game One was also for a cause as the PBA Board announced during a press conference in Taguig City that all Game 1 earnings will go to the calamity victims.
Board chair Ricky Vargas of Meralco said all Game 1 earnings will be coursed by the PBA through the Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility organization of TV5 Network Inc.
Filipinos frequently travel overseas in the dreams of a better future, full of excitement and anticipation. These ambitions frequently go beyond individual objectives and have a big impact on families and communities. However, the road to achieving these goals is frequently fraught with difficulties, necessitating fortitude, tenacity, and the proper assistance to thrive on the international scene.
From left to right: Lianne De Vera, Thomas Aguila, and Hannah Velasco, past IELTS test takers now successfully living abroad.
For many, being able to communicate in English is essential to taking advantage of these opportunities. Taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a crucial step for anybody looking to advance in their job, pursue additional education, or begin a new life. In addition to administering the IELTS exam, the British Council, which co-owns the test, provides assistance to those getting ready for international exams so they can adjust to life overseas. Introducing Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah—three Filipinos who overcame both personal and professional obstacles to prosper in their new communities.
Dreams Beyond Borders
For Lianne De Vera, a British Council scholarship grantee and now the marketing communications head of a London-based non-profit, the dream was always to broaden her horizons. Initially believing her strength was in writing, her speaking skills surpassed her expectations after taking the IELTS exam and scoring higher in speaking than in writing. “Taking the IELTS felt like a stamp of validation. It gave me the confidence to engage with my peers and professors,” she said. Earning a scholarship through the British Council’s IELTS Prize further motivated her to hone her skills in her field. “The IELTS was an eye-opener. I’m not particularly an extrovert, and I’m not comfortable speaking in public, but I did well with my speaking, showing me that I could surprise myself,” Lianne shared.
Moving to Canada to work as a nurse was a long-standing goal according to Thomas Aguila. This also required the right credentials. His employer and the academic institution where he is completing his degree units easily recognised his IELTS certification because it was from the British Council. “If I had taken another test, I think the outcome would’ve been different,” he explained. “The process was much smoother, and I got my results quickly from the British Council.” He added that improving his English skills also helped him be more attuned to his patients’ needs and adapt to the foreign environment.
Meanwhile, after years of navigating the paperwork to move to Bermuda, Hannah Velasco took the leap to relocate from her hometown of Dagupan three years ago. It was an adjustment that pushed her out of her comfort zone, but it led to fulfilling experiences that extended beyond her career. “Talking to people from different cultures has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me,” she said. “Improving English through the IELTS not only made me more fluent, but it also broke down barriers. I gained friends and insights into their cultures, which made my transition smoother.” Beyond her life as a nurse, the skills she gained through her IELTS journey helped her adapt to a foreign community.
A Stepping Stone to Success
The IELTS journey also provides individuals with the skills needed to create life-altering experiences. As Lianne shared, “IELTS opened the doors for me to step into a new chapter, leading to career and study opportunities, as well as the chance to live here and raise my family.”
Thomas echoed this, sharing how IELTS helped him achieve his dream of working abroad. After securing a healthcare role, he later received a scholarship in Canada with his employer covering his travel, accommodation, and education. “For the first time, I felt truly valued in my profession,” Thomas said, reflecting on how the experience has created opportunities for him.
For all three of them, the difference in their IELTS experience came down to the personalised support that the British Council offered. “The test may be the same, but how they deliver it and the support given makes all the difference,” Lianne said, likening her experience to a safe space for pursuing her goals. The British Council also provided tips on building a mindset ready for the exam, helping ease her anxiety. “The readily available resources and stamp of credibility are what make the journey more empowering,” she added.
Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah’s experiences demonstrate how fluency in the English language promotes both career and personal development. The British Council provides a wealth of assistance for Filipinos who want to succeed overseas, including materials for test-taking and IELTS preparation. With more than 20 testing locations around the country and their extensive online preparation resource, IELTS Ready Premium, the British Council is dedicated to helping people realize their dreams of living abroad.
Are you prepared to embark on your worldwide adventure? Take advantage of our Early Holiday Promo this October! by scheduling your IELTS exam now! Take advantage of a 10% discount at our test locations in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Pampanga when you register for your IELTS online. Go to https://www.britishcouncil.ph/exam to reserve your place right now.
Ajinomoto, BEST, and Quezon City’s LGU share the SariCycle® journey from its conception to where it is today
L-R: Johnkarl Manimbo – APC Sustainability Specialist, Japhet Bulingit – Corporate Sustainability Associate (BEST), Jonalyn Peñas – Business Development Officer (BEST), Andrea Villaroman – Head of QC CCESD, Ernie Carlos – APC Chief Sustainability Officer, Engr. Ceidge Razon – Corporate Sustainability Manager (BEST), Claire Vinarao – Chief, Adaptation Division (CCESD), Maribel Marquez – Acting Chief, Resource Efficiency Section (CCESD) and Kirstoff Buyoc – APC Sustainability Executive.
The Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (QC CCESD), Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST), and Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) are pleased to commemorate the SariCycle® Program’s six-month milestone. Since its debut in January 2024, this innovative program has successfully gathered over 4,000 kg of single-use plastics (SUPs) and has attracted over 600 active participants.
SariCycle® is a collaboration between sustainability and waste management. With an emphasis on gathering and recycling single-use plastic in smaller areas, the program was created to help address the growing issue of plastic waste. This started in a few areas in Quezon City where there are a lot of sari-sari shops. “SariCyclers,” as the participants are called, are rewarded with exclusive product bundles from Ajinomoto Philippines. Additionally, they receive Environmental Points (EPs), which may be exchanged for cash at participating merchants.
Among the participants are key members of Quezon City’s livelihood programs, including beneficiaries of the “Tindahan ni Mayor Joy” initiative and persons with disabilities (PWD) beneficiaries. The collective effort of these SariCyclers has resulted in significant strides in promoting environmental responsibility and awareness.
During the six-month evaluation meeting held at the QC CCESD office, representatives from APC, BEST, and QC CCESD, headed by Ms. Andrea Villaroman, were all in attendance to share and update the program’s current achievements and the challenges ahead. APC’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Ernie Carlos, shared how grateful APC is to the community for their unwavering support and emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The SariCycle® Program is testament to the positive and impactful effects we can achieve for the good of our environment when we all work towards a more sustainable future. Indeed, we take inspiration from the communities in Quezon City and our partners at BEST, when it comes to being stewards of the environment,” Carlos said.
To acknowledge the company’s role in this environmental effort, Ajinomoto Philippines was honored at BEST’s 25th Anniversary celebration on September 16, 2024, at Crowne Plaza Manila. BEST, a key player in solid waste management in the Philippines, shared how proud they are to have worked with APC, and its dedication to environmental sustainability and awarded the company a plaque of appreciation for its active role in the SariCycle® Program. APC’s Sustainability Executive, Kirstoff Buyoc, accepted the award for Ajinomoto Philippines. He also served as co-presenter for the recognition given to the top-performing SariCyclers during the event.
Key figures in the Circular Economy movement, such as Senator Cynthia Villar, the primary author of the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Law, were also present at the anniversary celebration. This incident demonstrated how crucial public-private sector cooperation is to advancing sustainability measures and bringing about positive environmental change.
Through its continuous activities, Ajinomoto Philippines is steadfast in its commitment to encouraging environmentally conscious behavior and responsible consumption. APC is eager to grow the SariCycle® Program and will keep taking the lead on their projects with a positive attitude. In keeping with their pledge to promote the “Eat Well, Live Well” lifestyle, they will collaborate closely with their partners to create a more sustainable future for everybody.
We visited Niigata and neighboring Sado Island in the last issue of The Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint. These itineraries, which are packed with stunning locations like the Kiyotsu Gorge and Sado Gold Mines, are designed to showcase Japan’s lesser-known but no less stunning regions. As we continue to create adventures on Japan’s less-traveled roads, we’re taking you to and around Kyushu, one of the country’s four main islands, on this episode of The Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint.
Every Kyushu prefecture has a unique charm and personality that blends well together to provide an unforgettable experience. The delights of Kyushu are only a short flight from Manila to Fukuoka. Come along as we show you the island’s distinctive historical sites and gastronomic delights.
Day 1: Arrival in Fukuoka Airport
Afternoon: Arrive in Fukuoka Airport from Manila, and check-in at Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion.
Evening: Spend your first night immersing yourself in Fukuoka’s local delicacies at the stalls of Yatai. Slurp down a hearty Hakata tonkotsu ramen dinner, known for its flavorful white broth.
Day 2: Nagasaki
Morning: Make your way to Nagasaki from Fukuoka, and consider checking-in at a hotel like the JR Kyushu Hotel Nagasaki near the station.
Afternoon to Evening: Visit Glover Garden for an open-air tour of the old mansions once inhabited by Western Merchants, with the piece de resistance being the Former Glover House. All mansions are surrounded with well-maintained and colorful flower arrangements, completing the already beautiful scene.
Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
Nagasaki has several high-rise cathedrals that will awe any visitor, with many of them located within driving distance from another, so explore as many of them as you can. The must-see churches are the Urakami Cathedral up north, the Nakamachi Catholic Church south of that, and the Oura Cathedral further down, with other churches along the way.
End the day on a filling noodle dish like Champon in Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, a city staple with an abundance of seafood and vegetable toppings paired with tasty noodles and soup.
Day 3: Nagasaki
Morning: Check-out of your hotel, and step into a new world at Huis Ten Bosch. To fully immerse yourself in this foreign town, book rooms at Hotel Nikko Huis Ten Bosch.
Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
Afternoon to Evening: Explore Huis Ten Bosch, a town built to commemorate the long friendship between the Dutch and the Japanese. Akin to a European city, Huis Ten Bosch has walkable streets that all lead to exciting places, with light displays, virtual rafting rides, and dressed-up buildings that complete this otherworldly experience.
Day 4: Saga
Morning: Before embarking on your Nagasaki to Saga road trip, have a Sasebo burger for breakfast in Nagasaki! The Sasebo burger is iconic in Japan, with a history dating back 50 years, and an authentic American taste.
Afternoon: Make your way to Saga, near our starting point of Fukuoka. Explore another Euro-inspired area, this time with influences from Germany. The Arita Porcelain Park is known for its world-class porcelain, quiet yet vibrant gardens, and open parks, with restaurants around the area and souvenir shops for your loved ones back home.
Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
While you’re in Saga, stop by the Yutoku Inari Shrine, one of the country’s top shrines dedicated to Inari. Ascend the stone steps under the Torii gates to find the majestic main hall, bordered by verdant Japanese flora.
Evening: Soak in the mending alkaline waters at the Takeo Onsen, a traditional Japanese onsen special water that revitalizes the skin and helps with conditions. They also hold pottery workshops and exhibit artifacts that hold the history to the onsen.
Day 5: Saga to Fukuoka
Morning: Before heading back to Fukuoka, visit the Tosu Premium Outlets, with high-quality brand stores around every turn to treat yourself to.
Afternoon: Once you get to Fukuoka, take a historical tour of Hakata Old Town. The tour will take you around the entire site, where you will learn about the old hub for Chinese merchants, going through the Sakura tea store, the Jotenji and Tochoji temple, and the resting place of the famous Chinese merchant Xie Guoming. Watch expert craftsmen hold demonstrations on their art of weaving textile and painting lanterns.
Evening: After a long day of travels and tours, fill-up on hot-pot perfection with either Motsunabe, packed with beef or pork offal with a hearty helping of vegetables, or Mizutaki, with chicken and shitake mushrooms slow-cooked with the broth. Both are core to Fukuoka’s cuisine, so get them both for a perfect dinner to feed the whole family. After dinner, check back into our point-zero: Mitsui Garden Hotel Fukuoka Gion.
Day 6: Fukuoka
Morning: Start your final morning of the trip with some much-needed downtime. Pair your morning ambience with some specialty chai at one of the many nearby café’s, with a variety of chai blends and spices to suit any and all tastes.
Afternoon: Go on a shopping-spree at Canal City Hakata, with over 250 shops, cafés, and restaurants to choose from, all in this creatively colorful mall. Don’t forget to buy pasalubong for the people back home!
Evening: Make your way back to Fukuoka Airport, and leave for Manila with a newfound appreciation for Kyushu’s one-of-a-kind wonder.
Additional recommendations:
Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
Capture the sunset in Itoshima, a coastal gem nearby Fukuoka. Known for its scenic beaches, rugged cliffs, and sparkling waters, every corner turned is a new sight to see and a new memory to make, so bring a camera and snapshot lifelong keepsakes.
Should your trip land between October 31st and November 4th, make time for the Saga International Balloon Fiesta to see the colorful and uniquely-designed hot-air balloons paint the sky for a stunning scene.
We hope that you have been able to appreciate the beauty of Kyushu and its prefectures as we come to the end of this journey. The enchantment of Japan can only be adequately conveyed by words and images, so make plans to visit Kyushu soon and experience it for yourself.
For more incredible adventures that will make you fall in love with Japan, one trip at a time, check out the schedule for next month.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, startup agility is crucial in achieving long-term success. This approach values flexibility, innovation, and collaboration over rigid structures and processes.
By embracing startup agility, up-and-coming businesses can stay ahead of the competition, meet customer needs, and build strong and recognizable brands.
The Startup Mindset
Startups are characterized by their small size, limited resources, and rapid growth potential. Often operating in dynamic and uncertain markets, they must quickly adapt to survive and thrive. Startups must be willing to experiment, take risks, and try new approaches to stay ahead of the competition and meet customer needs.
The Agile Framework in Startups
Agile methodology is a project management approach that values collaboration, flexibility, and customer satisfaction. It is based on a set of principles that emphasize:
Individuals and interactions over processes and tools
Working software over comprehensive documentation
Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
Responding to change over following a plan
There are several ways startups can practice the agile methodology in their business operations, such as breaking down large projects into smaller tasks. Prioritizing tasks based on customer value and regularly reviewing plans also counts. Collaboration and clear communication among team members also aid in cultivating agility.
Leveraging Agility for Brand Building
A responsive brand strategy is flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and customer needs. It involves several factors: regularly monitoring customer feedback, analyzing market trends, adjusting branding or messaging as needed, and exploring new ideas.
In addition, experimenting with new channels and approaches as well as collaborating with customers and partners can help strengthen the agility of your brand strategy. Your market reach also benefits from these since it exposes your brand to a broader audience.
Successful Brands That Used Agility
In the tech industry, startups like Airbnb and Uber have leveraged the agility framework to disrupt traditional industries and build strong and recognizable brands. The same strategy was also used by consumer goods startups such as Warby Parker and Dollar Shave Club to meet customer needs and build loyal customer bases. WeWork and TaskRabbit in the service industry took advantage of agility to provide flexible and convenient solutions to customers.
These are proof that startups can reap a lot of benefits from utilizing agility in their branding and marketing strategy.
Challenges in Maintaining Agility
As startups grow, they may face challenges in maintaining their agility and flexibility. Resistance to new working cultures and mindsets is quite common, as well as the lack of adequate support from leadership.
This can be addressed by implementing agile practices at scale, cultivating a culture of innovation, and continuously training employees. Working with a trusted public relations agency can also help alleviate these challenges and better implement the agile framework.
With these approaches, startups can continue to leverage agility without entering into culture shock and technological inexperience.
Tools and Technologies For Startup Agility
One of the core objectives of the agility framework is to break down projects into smaller tasks. Project management tools like Asana and Trello can help startups organize their tasks and projects appropriately.
For customer management, CRM systems such as Salesforce and HubSpot are common options to manage feedback and other related sources. In analytics and data visualization, Google Analytics and Tableau are often used to aid in making data-driven decisions.
Building a Culture of Agility
Leaders play a crucial role in building a culture of agility. They must exemplify the behaviors and attitudes they want to see in their team members. Leaders also encourage innovation and experimentation while providing training and support at the same time. What the leaders do and say is reflected by the teams they lead.
An agile culture entails a willingness to learn from failures to build a strong brand strategy. By conducting post-mortem analyses of failed projects and encouraging collaboration among team members, startups can cultivate a healthy mindset for their workforce.
Adapting Towards Success
The journey of agility is a continuous one, and startups must be willing to regularly review and adjust their strategies and approaches to stay ahead of the competition and build strong and recognizable brands. By embracing agility, startups can achieve long-term success while maintaining their core values and cultivating a healthy work culture.
