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Lifestyle, News

The AICI worldwide conference in Manila this April emphasized the growth of the image consulting profession

AICI 2025 Board of Directors

The image consulting business is booming. According to The Image Educator on Threads, the global image consulting market, which is presently valued at $4.5 million, is expected to expand at an annual pace of 7.2% and reach $7.32 billion in 2032.

Image consultants’ ability to alter or mold how the public views people and brands is becoming recognized as a game-changer for acceptance in the business, marketing, political, and entertainment sectors.

It has been demonstrated that holistic personal branding, which includes digital presence, self-projection, and communication skills, gives image-coached clients or brands a competitive advantage.

AICI Global Conference 2025

This was the optimistic picture painted at the global conference of the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) held at the Makati Shangri-La Manila from April 24-27. The event was attended by about 240 professional image consultants from 38 countries from USA, Canada, Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, India, China, Mexico, Colombia and the Philippines.

Olen Juarez-Lim, founder and president of the OJL Consulting Group and a recognized image management professional and industry icon in the Philippines welcomed the delegates to the colorful event punctuated by side events that showcased Filipino culture, fashion, food, music, and the festival spirit.

Lim is the 22nd president of the prestigious group, the first Asian and Filipina to ever be elected to the position.

Themed “Weaving the Future: Global Collaborations for Breakthrough Innovations,” it was the first time the global conference was held in Asia. The last site of the biennial conference was Punta Cana, Dominican Republic in 2023.

Besides learning new trends and honing their business expertise at the conference, participants delved into the details of their profession which besides fashion and style also includes communication skills, body language, etiquette and social skills, corporate image, digital branding, executive coaching, digital presence, online reputation and technological advancements.

Motivational Speaker, Corporate Trainer, Multi Awarded Entrepreneur & Best Selling Author Paulo Tibig

Local and foreign speakers like global entrepreneur and motivational speaker Paulo Tibig, digital entrepreneur and TV star Amber Renae, relational skills expert Kara Finney and Vogue editor Bea Valdes shared their expertise on the latest trends in business, fashion, online entrepreneurship, the finer points of image consultancy and related professions.

Themed “Weaving the Future: Global Collaborations for Breakthrough Innovations,” the conference sought to weave the future of image consulting with an intensive 40-plus sessions on the intricacies of the profession that is now in demand all over the world.

The growth of image consulting is being driven by an increasing awareness of personal branding and the need to project a strong, positive image to be noticed and preferred across various fields and sectors.

“The conference was a great exchange of knowledge, networking and good vibes across cultures. It let our local image consultants gain international recognition, promote their work and get experience for continued professional development. There were meaningful exchanges about trends, technology, and new practices in the most diverse representation of AICI chapters in our organization’s history ever. Most of all, we are proud and happy to have welcomed everyone to Manila and let everyone experience our rich culture,” said Ms. Lim, an image consultancy pioneer in the country and a globally recognized professional.

When AICI was founded in 1990, it had 38 chapters with members and was present in more than 60 nations worldwide. It is the most prestigious association in the world for image consultants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric surpasses its 2024 goal and begins the year with noteworthy environmental milestones

Leading energy management and automation digital transformation company Schneider Electric said that its Schneider Sustainability Impact (SSI) program received a 7.95 out of 10 rating in the first quarter of 2025, falling short of the 8.80/10 goal set for the year’s conclusion.

As it approaches the last year of its current SSI program, Schneider Electric, which Corporate Knights has named the world’s most sustainable firm, keeps making great progress toward its sustainability objectives. Along with its full-year financial results, the company just released information about its sustainability performance for the last quarter of 2024. The company’s 2024 SSI score exceeded the end-of-year goal of 7.40, coming in at 7.55 out of 10. Achieving the company’s objectives in all areas of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requires tracking and reporting on the 11 worldwide commitments of its SSI on a quarterly basis.

SSI is the company’s framework for measuring sustainability progress, aligned with its business strategy. Performance is tracked against a 2020 baseline, with some programs using adjusted baselines due to COVID-19. SSI scores progress on a 10-point scale, where the 2025 target equals 10/10, and the base year is 3/10. Scores are calculated per key performance indicator, averaged equally (excluding Local Commitment), and externally audited annually. In 2024, SSI #8 received “reasonable” assurance.

“In 2024, Schneider Electric was recognized by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company.  Earlier this year, we were honored to receive the same recognition from Corporate Knights as part of its Global  100 ranking – marking our second time topping this list and a first for any corporation. These remarkable  achievements, alongside other key ESG recognitions inspire us to reach even greater heights in 2025,” said Chris Leong, Chief Sustainability Officer at Schneider Electric. “As we enter the final year of our Sustainability Impact program, we are determined to continue transforming ambition into action. There’s still work ahead, but with the support of our extensive ecosystem, our people, and all our Impact Makers, we will succeed.”

In Q1 2025, Schneider Electric helped customers save and avoid nearly 700 million tonnes of CO₂ through its solutions. Since 2018, its energy-saving technologies have enabled 679 million tonnes in avoided emissions. It also achieved a 42% emissions cut from its top 1,000 suppliers through energy efficiency and renewables under the Zero Carbon Project.

Schneider Electric’s suppliers uphold decent work standards, with compliance rising from 21% in 2023 to 63% in 2024. Exceeding its SSI goal ahead of schedule, Schneider has provided clean electricity to 53.4 million people and trained 824,000+ individuals in energy management, nearing its 1 million target by 2025. Through its Youth Education & Entrepreneurship program, Schneider equips young people with skills for sustainable careers.

In addition to these accomplishments, for the 14th consecutive year, Schneider Electric has been included in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index, achieved a place on CDP’s A list, and earned a AAA rating from MSCI ESG. Its latest score from EcoVadis also secured a Platinum medal.

“At Schneider, we believe in strong partnerships with corporations, governments, local partners, and communities to uplift livelihoods, boost incomes, and expand access to education and reliable, clean energy,” added Leong. “I’m especially proud of our people’s relentless pursuit to turn ambition into action, from innovating solutions for environmental impact to giving back to our communities. Together, we’re making progress and sustainability a reality for all.”

See the Q4 and  Q1 2025 reports Schneider Electric, which include comprehensive progress dashboards, for more information about the company’s Sustainability Impact initiative.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe honors fans with the ultimate Star Wars Celebration in honor of a decade of magic

Student winners and Globe Multi-Product Owner (customers with both Globe Mobile and Globe At Home accounts) winners enjoying the Star Wars Celebration in Japan as part of Globe’s 10-year collaboration with Disney.

Globe and Disney have been dedicated to providing top-notch entertainment to Filipino viewers for the past ten years. Globe has been bringing Disney stories to Filipino viewers since 2015. This has happened both in their living rooms and while they are on the go.

“For 10 years, Globe has from time to time brought the best of Disney storytelling to our customers through various initiatives and collaborations. This milestone marks our shared vision of delivering premium entertainment while rewarding our customers with rare and special treats. We look forward to creating more unforgettable moments for Filipino fans,” Roche Vandenberghe, Globe’s Chief Marketing Officer, said.

Celebrating 10 years of working with Disney on various initiatives and collaborations this year, Globe is bringing even more exciting treats to customers – including the ultimate Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025.

As part of a promo held from February 24 to March 30, 2025, Globe flew two college students and their companions, as well as two multi-product subscribers and their families, to Japan.

Student winners Maxine Tio and Raphael Pacheco (center) with their companions Cyrus Antonio (left), and Miguel Pacheco (right).

Globe Multi- Product Owner winners Graciela Alcazar and Carlyn Garcia (center) with their families

The student winners joined through the Student Special Rewards promo on the GlobeOne app by redeeming just 1 Globe Reward Point. These lucky college students, together with a companion each, were treated to a five-day, all-expense-paid trip that included two admission tickets to the event. They witnessed iconic appearances by stars like Hayden Christensen and Pedro Pascal, explored Japan, and stayed connected through GoRoamJapan.

Meanwhile, the Globe Multi-Product Owner winners joined an exclusive promo open only to customers subscribed to both Globe Mobile and Globe Broadband. Two winners received an all-expenses-paid trip for four, covering roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations, a welcome dinner, and three-day admission passes. Alongside their families, they immersed themselves in the Star Wars universe, enjoyed celebrity sightings, and brought home exclusive merchandise—all while sharing the moment in real time via RoamSurf4All.

Aside from Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, three more subscribers and their three friends or family members, will get a chance to visit Tokyo Disneyland for free, with airfare and hotel accommodation included.

All winners also received GoRoam Japan for seamless connectivity throughout their trip, which allowed them to share real-time updates and make the most out of their stay.

Meanwhile, Globe also provided their customers more opportunities to watch Disney’s theatrical releases throughout the year. Most recently, some customers received movie tickets for Captain America: Brave New World, Disney’s Snow White, and Marvel’s Thunderbolts* through the GlobeOne app. Globe also sponsored nationwide block screenings for student leaders. Upcoming titles include the live-action Lilo & Stitch, as well as Fantastic Four: First Steps, among others.

For those who prefer to watch their favorite stories from the comfort of their own homes, Globe also provides Disney+ access through the following offers:

  • Prepaid & Home Prepaid WiFi: Get Disney+ Basic (Php229 for 30 days, Php1,899 for 12 months) or Disney+ Premium (Php499 for 30 days, Php3,999 for 12 months).
  • Postpaid: Convert GBs to access Disney+ with GPlan Plus 1299 and up (6GB for 30 days of Disney+ Basic, 13GB for 30 days of Disney+ Premium)
  • Platinum: Upgrade to Platinum GPlan Plus and charge Disney+ Premium to the monthly consumable allowance.
  • Globe at Home: Enjoy 12-month access to Disney+ Premium at no additional cost with GFiber Plan 1,999 and up; 12-month access to Disney+ Basic at no additional cost with GFiber Plan 1,499.
  • Globe Rewards: Redeem Disney+ Basic (30 days) for 180 points or Disney+ Premium (30 days) for 380 points.
  • GFiber Prepaid: Subscribe to UnliSurf999 or UnliSurf1599 for Disney+ Premium Monthly; UnliSurf9999 or UnliSurf15999 for Disney+ Premium Annual.

By bringing Disney Mobile cell phones to Southeast Asia and giving Filipino viewers exclusive access to Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars, Globe has been at the forefront of entertainment developments since 2015.

With more thrilling surprises and magical moments in store, Globe is still able to provide a broad selection of entertainment and experiences for all types of customers.

Explore Globe’s website at https://www.globe.com.ph/.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe equips the upcoming generation of innovators, leaders, and change agents

Globe is actively supporting Filipino students by implementing programs that ignite passions, develop leadership abilities, and equip youth for a world that is changing more quickly than ever before.

Today’s students have a lot on their plate, including coursework, technology, social life, and self-discovery. Globe is aware that being a telecom in the modern day entails more than just sending out signals. It’s about joining a student on their path to finding their passion and constructing their future. Globe aims to assist students in discovering their hobbies and pursuing them without becoming overwhelmed by the crowd.

Students can participate in the Globe Community Builders Program in a variety of ways. Students can use the GlobeOne app’s Student Rewards to gain daily benefits and necessities. Students who have huge ideas can submit them on the Globe website through Globe Student Grants, and the most promising ones can collaborate with Globe to make their ideas a reality. Pupils can connect with mentors, propose their planned activities and initiatives, and become more involved in forming local communities. For individuals who are prepared to begin developing their professions early, internships are also offered.

One example of this in action happened in May when Globe organized the Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* led by the Marketing Youth Culture department. Student leaders from different high schools and universities were invited to special block screenings held in select Metro Manila, Nueva Ecija, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao cinemas. Apart from enjoying the movie, they were also given the opportunity to connect with Globe mentors and learn more about joining the Globe Community Builders Program, where they could take a more active role in leading projects, organizing events, and building their leadership skills.

“Just like the heroes we see on screen, every student has the potential to rise, lead, and make a difference. Through Globe Community Builders Program, Globe is here to champion their dreams and stand with them every step of the way,” said Andrew James Lim, Lead for Marketing Youth Culture at Globe.

Globe keeps going forward, reaffirming its position as a genuine partner for students, assisting them in discovering their voice, pursuing their interests, and creating a future they can be proud of. Because every student deserves support as they become the person they were destined to be.

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Travel

Japan’s Urban Sanctuaries, Ziplines, Toilet Museums, and Luxurious Hotels: Anticipate the Most Pleasant Unexpected

There are always new methods for Japan to surprise tourists. One minute you’re in Central Osaka, a city of parks, shopping centers, and excellent dining. Next, you’re enjoying the downtime life provides on the terraces of the Gate Hotel Fukuoka, exploring a museum of Japanese toilets in Aichi, or ziplining over fields after a local breakfast in Chiba. New establishments are popping up all throughout the nation’s several prefectures, providing a variety of lodging options and locations to explore. Here are four new locations that should be on your next itinerary if you’re searching for new places to captivate you.

In the heart of Osaka, Grand Green Osaka unfolds as a new kind of urban retreat, where city parks meet upscale dining, design-forward shopping, and slow moments of wellness. Days begin with local pastries or pour-over coffee on terrace cafes, followed by sushi omakase, open-kitchen steak dinners, or a stroll through the flagship stores. Below ground, the buzzing Time Out Market gathers top chefs to serve some of the best food across Kansai, alongside live cultural events and performances. Soak in a rooftop onsen, wind down in meditation rooms, or simply watch the city come alive in this new urban paradise.

In the forests of Chiba, the Farm Slow Mountain Narita offers a slower, more grounded kind of getaway. Accommodations include glamping tents, cottages, and cabins scattered across a spacious, tree-lined property.

Mornings start with fresh, local food, while the rest of the day is open for zipline rides, vegetable harvesting, or following an AR-powered trail through the woods. In the evening, communal barbecue dinners bring people together under the stars. Find beauty in the stillness of Farm Slow Mountain Narita, easily accessible via car from Tokyo, and via bus or car from Narita Airport.

Photo courtesy of ©INAX MUSEUMS

The newest addition to the INAX MUSEUMS in Tokoname, Aichi, Toilet Museum celebrates Japan’s design-forward approach to one of life’s most overlooked essentials that the country does best. Exhibits walk you through the history of toilets in Japan, from early wooden bowls to the high-tech fixtures now famous around the world. It’s a clever, unexpectedly engaging stop that fits perfectly into the INAX MUSEUMS’ larger focus on ceramics, design, and everyday innovation. The museum is accessible by a 10-minute car ride from Chubu Centrair Airport, or a 40-minute limited express train ride from Meitetsu Nagoya Station.

The GATE HOTEL FUKUOKA by HULIC offers visitors to Fukuoka a refined and serene experience in the heart of the city. The hotel is located in the top levels of a brand-new business complex and has a direct connection to Tenjin Station. Anchor Grill Fukuoka, the hotel’s in-house restaurant, features local ingredients in every dish, and its top-floor lounge leads onto a breeze-filled patio with expansive views of the skyline. The décor of the guestrooms are modern and well-designed, while suites like THE GATE provide views of Hakata Bay.

Every one of these locations provides something a little different—an experience you weren’t even aware you were seeking. When combined, they demonstrate how Japan keeps evolving and delighting—not by adopting fads but by subtly increasing the standard.

 

 

Lifestyle, News

According to the Tangere Survey, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon are the three highest rated cabinet officials

According to a recent Tangere survey, Rexlon Gatchalian, the secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, had the highest satisfaction rating of any cabinet secretary in the Marcos Administration, at 59.4%. The respondents who identified as belonging to socioeconomic classes D and E are the primary contributors to the positive satisfaction rating, which is consistent with the findings of the poll conducted last month. Sec. With the launch of the DSWD’s AKAP (Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program), Gatchalian’s public recognition increased.

Highest Satisfaction Rating of the Cabinet Secretaries of the Marcos Administration (Top 2-5):

  • Sonny Angara (Secretary of Education) – 58.1%
  • Vivencio Dizon (Secretary of Tourism) – 56.8%
  • Renato Solidum, Jr (Secretary of Science and Technology) – 55.5%
  • Hans Cacdac (Secretary of Migrant Workers) – 55.0%

Assessment :

  • Consistent with the previous month’s survey, the data suggests that departments directly impacting social welfare, education, labor and employment, and public transport have higher public satisfaction.

The non-commissioned survey on the Trust and Satisfaction Ratings of Cabinet Secretaries of the Marcos Administration, conducted last April 21-22, 2025, was administered via a mobile-based respondent application with a sample size of 2,400 participants (+/- 1.96% Margin of Error at a 95% Confidence Level) using a Stratified Random Sampling method (Quota Based Sampling). The proportion was spread throughout the Philippines with 12 percent from NCR, 23 percent from Northern Luzon, 22 percent from Southern Luzon, 20 percent from Visayas, and 23 percent from Mindanao.

Capturing Filipino feelings is the goal of Tangere, an award-winning technology application and innovation-driven market research and public opinion polling firm. One of the first survey firms to register with the Commission on Election (COMELEC) in accordance with Resolution 11117 was Tangere (Acquisition Apps, Inc.). Tangere is a proud member of the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA), the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA), and the Marketing and Opinion Research Society of the Philippines (MORES).

Contact: [email protected] for Topline Reports and Analytics

 

Lifestyle, News

The Tangere Senatorial Preferential Survey shows that Senator Bato Dela Rosa rose the highest, while Senator Bong Go remains alone at the top

 

According to Tangere’s most recent 2025 Pre-Election Senatorial Preferential Survey, Senator Bong Go was the only candidate to receive a 59.3% vote. According to voter preference, Senator Bong Go ranks among the top three in each of the nation’s seventeen regions. Erwin Tulfo, the representative for ACT-CIS, will come in second place with a voter preference of 55.1%, primarily from Northern and Central Luzon.

Sen. Bong Revilla, Media Executive Ben “Bitag” Tulfo, and Sen. Bato Dela Rosa will be statistically tied for third place. Millennial and Gen-Z voters preferred Ben “Bitag” Tulfo over his brother, who was preferred by the older respondents. Driven by strong support from Visayas and Mindanao, Sen. Bato Dela Rosa made a major leap in the survey, increasing his voter preference by over 10%.

Top 12 Candidates

The following are the candidates that constitutes the rest of the Top 12 slots:

  • Former Senator Tito Sotto, statistically tied at 5-6, with a 45.00% voter preference;
  • Four (4) candidates are statistically tied between 7thto -10th place:
    • Senator Pia Cayetano with a 41.5% voter preference;
    • Former DILG Secretary Ben Abalos with a 40.6% voter preference after posting a notable increase from Southern Luzon and Bicol Region;
    • Senator Lito Lapid with a 40.3% voter preference;
    • Former Senator Panfilo Lacson with a 39.2% voter preference.
  • Rounding up the top 12 will be former Senator Manny Pacquiao with a 36.3% voter preference and Senator Francis Tolentino with a 35.0% voter preference after posting a notable increase in Central Luzon and Metro Manila.

Effect of VP Sara Endorsement

Both candidates recently supported by Vice President Sara Duterte experienced notable gains in Mindanao. Cong. Camille Villar posted a 2% increase in her voter preference (statistically tied at 11th -13th with 34.5%) and Sen. Imee Marcos posted a 3.75% increase in her voter preference (statistically tied at 12th -18th with 33.5%). Interestingly, Sen. Marcos experienced a notable decline in Northern Luzon after the endorsement of the Vice President.

The non-commissioned survey, conducted April 22-25, 2025, was administered via a mobile-based respondent application with a sample size of 2,400 participants (+/- 1.96% Margin of Error at a 95% Confidence Level) using a Stratified Random Sampling method (Quota Based Sampling). The proportion was spread throughout the Philippines with 12 percent from NCR, 23 percent from Northern Luzon, 22 percent from Southern Luzon, 20 percent from Visayas, and 23 percent from Mindanao.

The goal of Tangere, an innovative market research firm with an award-winning technological application, is to understand Filipino opinions. Tangere is a proud member of the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA), the European Society for Opinion and Market Research (ESOMAR), and the Marketing and Opinion Research Society of the Philippines (MORES). One of the first businesses to register with the COMELC was Tangere.

Email Tangere at [email protected] to obtain the topline report and analytics for this non-commissioned study.

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

2GO Takes First Place at the Toyota Supplier Conference in 2025

2GO received five major recognitions from automotive giant Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation, including the 2024 Most Outstanding Performer – Shipping Line (Large Category), the Capacity and Service Enhancement Award, the 2024 Shipment Compliance Key Performance Indicator, the 2024 Safety Key Performance Indicator, and, most recently, the 2024 Superior Shipping Line Award.

During the 2025 Toyota Supplier Conference and 25th Toyota Supplier Club General Assembly, which took place at the Grand Hyatt Manila, 2GO, the top shipping and logistics solutions provider in the Philippines, proudly accepted the 2024 Superior Shipping Line Award. In support of the massive automobile company Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation, in particular, this honor highlights 2GO’s ongoing dedication to dependability, operational excellence, efficiency, and exceptional customer service in the logistics sector.

The team is a notable partner in Toyota Motor Philippines’ vast supply chain network due to its reliable performance and compliance with Toyota’s service requirements.

“We are deeply honored to receive these prestigious awards, especially the 2024 Superior Shipping Line Award,” said Sharon Musngi-Ngo. “This recognition is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our team, who continuously strive to exceed expectations in integrity, reliability, efficiency, and service excellence. Our partnership with Toyota Motor Philippines is built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to operational excellence, and we look forward to continuing this successful collaboration.”

From left to right: Joseph Pescador, Sales Manager, 2GO Sea Solutions; Sherwin Chua-Lim, Senior Vice President, Marketing Division, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation; Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Vice President/Business Unit Head, 2GO Sea Solutions; Cecil Perez-Valle, AVP, Head of Commercial Sales, 2GO Sea Solutions; Cherry Lyn Bolanos, Vice President, Vehicle Logistics Department, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation; and Mark Diomampo, Sales Manager, 2GO Sea Solutions.

In addition to this major honor, 2GO was also recognized during the 2025 Annual Vehicle Logistics Conference, bringing home a total of four awards: the 2024 Most Outstanding Performer – Shipping Line (Large Category), the Capacity & Service Enhancement Award, the 2024 Shipment Compliance Key Performance Indicator, and the 2024 Safety Key Performance Indicator Award. These accolades reflect the 2GO Sea Solutions team’s strategic efforts in optimizing capacity, meeting key performance indicators, and prioritizing efficiency and safety in every aspect of shipping operations.

The annual Toyota Supplier Conference and Toyota Supplier Club General Assembly are landmark events in the automotive industry calendar. Organized by Toyota Motor Philippines, these gatherings celebrate and honor the achievements of key suppliers and logistics partners. The 2025 edition also marked the 25th year of the Toyota Supplier Club, making the event even more significant. It comes on the heels of Toyota’s record-breaking performance in 2024, where the brand sold 218,019 vehicles and secured a commanding 47% market share—earning its 23rd consecutive Triple Crown as No. 1 in sales, production, and exports in the Philippine automotive industry.

The company’s strategy focus on service excellence, efficiency, and innovation is demonstrated by 2GO’s 2024 performance and 2025 recognition. As a reliable logistics partner of Toyota and other top companies, 2GO keeps pushing the boundaries of maritime transportation and logistics services in the nation.

To learn more, please go to 2go.com.ph.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

 

Lifestyle, News

Abi Marquez receives her first-ever nomination for “TikTok Presence” at the Shorty Awards

Abi’s photo

At the 17th Annual Shorty Awards, Filipina content producer Abi Marquez received her first-ever nomination in the “TikTok Presence” category, further advancing Filipino food and digital storytelling to a global audience.

With 4.4 million followers and over 117.8 million likes, Abi, who goes by the online moniker “Lumpia Queen,” has amassed a sizable TikTok following by showcasing Filipino culinary video and delving into other cuisines with the same zesty, fun enthusiasm. Her nomination honors the way she has proudly, humorously, and creatively represented Filipino culture by transforming commonplace dishes into viral films.

The Shorty Awards celebrate the best of the best in social and digital media—from creators to campaigns that shape culture online. Past winners include names like Pixar, Jay Shetty, Al Jazeera Digital, and Google.

Abi is in good company this year, up against major players like Sony Pictures’ “Venom: The Last Dance” TikTok Takeover, MTV’s “The Chi” and “Tulsa King”, Nickelodeon’s “SpongeBob 25th” celebration, and more.

Check out her nomination here: shortyawards.com/17th/abi-marquez-lumpia-queen

Abi’s Shorty Awards page

“Being recognized by the Shorty Awards is such an honor—not just for me, but for the whole Filipino food community on TikTok,” Abi shares.

She adds, “It motivates me even more to keep pushing Filipino cuisine onto the global stage and turn the food space into one big collaboration zone. This nomination is a reminder of how powerful our stories can be, especially when told through food.”

The 17th Annual Shorty Awards marks Abi’s third international nomination this year, following recent nods at the 29th Annual Webby Awards and the 45th Annual Telly Awards, further solidifying her status as one of the Philippines’ leading digital creatives.

With this nomination in the bag, Abi’s mission is louder than ever: to keep bringing Filipino flavor to the global stage.

Every time a fan shares their vote on Facebook, X (previously Twitter), or LinkedIn, it qualifies as a bonus vote. Fans can vote on the Shorty Awards website once every day.

Visit and vote here: shortyawards.com/17th/abi-marquez-lumpia-queen

In May 2025, the 17th Annual Shorty Awards winners will be revealed.

FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE |  X

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

A year ahead of schedule, the Hapag Movement assists more than 120,000 families that are experiencing involuntary hunger

Students at an elementary school in Laurel, Batangas receive a nutritious meal from the Hapag Movement.

Thanks to the combined efforts of Globe and TM customers, corporate sponsors, and mobilization partners, Globe’s hunger alleviation program, the Hapag Movement, has helped over 120,000 Filipino families and achieved its impact objective one year ahead of schedule.

The program raised Php 25.37 million in 2024 alone, surpassing its initial goal of 100,000 people by the end of 2025. This brings the total amount raised since 2022 to Php 53 million, which will be used to feed 120,455 families who are experiencing food insecurity.

“The overwhelming support for the Hapag Movement reflects the dedication of individuals, businesses, and organizations that share our vision of addressing involuntary hunger in the Philippines. Reaching this milestone sooner than expected strengthens our resolve to expand our efforts and create lasting change,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe.

Since its launch, the Hapag Movement has worked with the Ayala Foundation, Scholars of Sustenance, Tzu Chi Foundation, and World Vision. In 2024, it brought in three new mobilization partners—Rise Against Hunger and international organizations UN World Food Programme and Project PEARLS. This aimed to draw international attention to persistent hunger incidence in the Philippines, allowing the Hapag Movement to reach more communities in need.

The Hapag Movement has received support from over 1.1 million Globe and TM subscribers, who donated Php 11.67 million in Rewards points through the GlobeOne app.  Total contributions to the program have accounted for 23% of all assistance provided through the platform.

In addition, 1,871 Globe employees took part in various Hapag Movement activities in 2024, demonstrating their commitment to making a difference.

To grow its impact, the Hapag Movement launched innovative fundraisers like the “Ibalik ang Sarap ng Pasko” holiday drive with SM’s shopper loyalty program SMAC, integrating donations into holiday shopping, and the Gourmet Giving Series, featuring fine dining fundraiser events with 12 top Metro Manila restaurants in partnership with Facebook community Fine Dining Club Philippines.

The Hapag Movement also tapped into the power of fandoms, enlisting support from Blackpink and BTS fan communities, Electronic Sports Gaming Summit gamers, ToyCon collectors, Lyropera enthusiasts, and Kwentoon artists to encourage contributions.

The program also gained invaluable support from the Rotary Club of Makati Business District, BPI Foundation, and Kumu, among others.

With its initial target surpassed, the Hapag Movement is now focused on scaling its livelihood training programs nationwide to provide families with sustainable means of supporting themselves.

In order to guarantee that Filipino children obtain the right nutrition throughout their crucial early years, the program is also looking into measures to help combat child stunting.

The Hapag Movement is still dedicated to fighting poverty and hunger in the Philippines. In order to maintain and increase its impact, supporters can keep making contributions using the GlobeOne app and GCash.

Visit this website to learn more about Hapag and to make a direct donation to the cause.