by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 25, 2024 | Business
Parañaque City, Philippines – The USAID Strengthening Private Enterprise for the Digital Economy (SPEED) and StartUp Village hosted a transformative “Capacity Development Program for SMEs” on July 23, 2024, at Kingsford Hotel in Parañaque City. Attended by local dignitaries such as Congressman Edwin Olivarez and Mayor Eric Olivarez, along with members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the event underscored the importance of digital transformation for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Atty. Gino Jacinto at Kingsford Hotel, Paranaque City July 23, 2024
A highlight of the event was a compelling presentation by Atty. Gino Jacinto, COO and VP of Operations and Business Development at UNAWA, titled “From Ink to Click: The Digital Signature Advantage for Small Businesses.” Jacinto emphasized the pivotal role of electronic signatures in streamlining business operations. “Electronic signatures enable businesses to close deals securely and efficiently, eliminating doubts,” he said, showcasing UNAWA’s platform, SignSecure, as a crucial tool for SMEs aiming to enhance their operational efficiency.
The program featured insightful sessions designed to promote digitalization among SMEs. Ms. Steph Dy Tiapco from StartUp Village discussed the advantages of adopting a growth mindset through digitalization. At the same time, Mr. Angel Feliciano of Prosperna shared strategies for leveraging eCommerce to drive business growth.
This initiative, part of USAID SPEED’s broader efforts, aimed to equip Filipino SMEs with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in a digital age. For more information on future events and digital solutions, visit UNAWA and StartUp Village.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 24, 2024 | Events
The much-anticipated Manila Bridal Fair by Manila Prince Hotel is set to grace the Grand Ballroom on July 26 and 27, 2024. This prestigious event aims to bring together a curated selection of industry experts, offering soon-to-wed couples an unparalleled experience. Admission is free on both dates.
The line-up of over 20 exhibitors is set to impress, from Angeline Cakes, Audiolex Interactive Photobooth, Babaylan Coffee, Big Day by Charles and Co., Cakecologist, Cocktails Manila, Events by Thoffy, FYI Events, Flowers by Alvin, Lawrence Tapalla, MTC Events, Music Podium Entertainment, Myra Lorenzo, Myrtle Salvador, Paper Flowers Manila, Photoculture, Purple Mix Lights & Sounds, Sentimental Groove Music, The Artisan Cellar Door, and Winvih Mobile Bar – all dedicated to making each wedding truly memorable. Couples can consult with these professionals and book their services during the fair.

On July 26, the fair will open its doors at 12:00 noon and will run until 7:00 pm. In the evening, there will be a bridal fashion show putting the spotlight on ready-to-wear gowns and suits by partner designers Carina Canlas, Fatima Beltran, and Ryan ChrisBaylen, plus members of Designers Circle Philippines.
On the second day, July 27, the fair will be open to attendees from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Additionally, partner designers will hold a trunk show at the presidential suites of the Manila Prince Hotel. Couples can view the designers’ gown and suit ready-to-wear collection, try them on, and make purchases on the spot, ensuring a personalized and exclusive shopping experience. Moreover, Benz Co-Rana, the founder of Weddings at Work, will present a talk, offering her insights to couples and wedding suppliers.
During the 2-day bridal fair, Manila Prince Hotel will be transformed by the creative talents of none other than Amante Fleurs and Joyce Aguilar at both the hotel lobby and the Grand Ballroom. Manila Prince Hotel will also showcase its signature themes: Classic for a timeless elegance, Opulent for a luxurious feel, and Oriental for a unique and exotic touch, providing attendees with a glimpse of the stunning settings that can make their special day unforgettable.
For more information about the event, call +63285256228, email in**@**********ce.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.
Special thanks to event partners: Manila Bulletin, Wedding Essentials, The Manila Times, Wheninmanila.com, Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila, Mixcraft Lights and Sounds, Weddings at Work, and SM Store Manila.
About Manila Prince
Manila Prince Hotel, a subsidiary of The Manila Hotel, is strategically located in the heart of Manila’s business district. Its proximity to the city’s historical tourist spots and main transportation hubs ensures a stress-free and convenient stay for our guests.
With its 300 well-appointed rooms, six function rooms and ballrooms, an elegant lobby with 24-hour reception, a business center, a swimming pool, and gym access, the Manila Prince Hotel offers not just stylish comfort, but also excellent value for money. Along with our commitment to excellent service and luxurious hospitality, the hotel boasts two (2) exciting dining outlets: Marcelino Street Café, the all-day dining restaurant, and Dragon Court, the Chinese restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine.
It also has a speakeasy bar called Hyde Manila. Hyde Manila is a hidden gem at Manila Prince Hotel that will transport its patrons into a realm where time stands still, and cocktails are crafted with artistry that transcends the ordinary.
The hotel is directly connected to the UN Square Mall, a popular shopping and dining destination in Manila. This convenient access to a variety of retail and dining options, along with our other amenities, makes Manila Prince Hotel a top choice for leisure travelers.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 10, 2024 | Advocacy
The
Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP), a leading organization representing the personal care and cosmetics industry in the Philippines, held a tree planting initiative titled “Rooted in Beauty, Committed to the Future” at Mt. Purro, Antipolo Rizal.
This event marks a significant milestone in CCIP’s 50th-anniversary goal of planting 500 trees, a target they successfully surpassed with the enthusiastic participation of their member companies. A total of 98 member companies’ representatives were present in the active tree-planting event.
This event marks a significant milestone in CCIP’s 50th-anniversary goal of planting 500 trees, a target they successfully surpassed with the enthusiastic participation of their member companies. A total of 98 member companies’ representatives were present in the active tree-planting event.
Popular local clean beauty brands like Ever Bilena Cosmetics, Ellana Cosmetics, and Pili Ani were among the prominent participants.
Well-known personal care companies like Biogenic Alcohol, Splash Wipro, Personal Collection, and Bevi Manufacturing Inc. also joined the initiative. Leaders in the manufacturing industry, such as DJM Corporation, Connell Caldic, Bestpak, and Zizmore, among many others, lent their support as well.
CCIP’s vice president for CSR, Linda Yu of Amchem, expressed hope that this activity would inspire a new generation to advocate for sustainability and environmental protection. “These 500 tree seedlings are just the beginning,” Yu said. “We foresee a new era where various companies in the industry join hands to create a better world for the future!”
Ever Bilena, a CCIP member company, echoed this sentiment. Denice Sy, Ever Bilena’s Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, revealed the company’s aspiration to become a net zero company. “This year, we are on track to achieve our recovery and plastic footprint offset goal of 40%,” Sy shared.
Planting trees is a powerful act with significant environmental benefits. Trees not only beautify our surroundings but also play a crucial role in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas.In the context of the beauty industry, which relies heavily on natural resources, tree planting serves as a way to give back to the environment and ensure the sustainability of the very ingredients that go into the products we love.This initiative by CCIP and its members paves the way for a more sustainable future for the industry and the planet.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 4, 2024 | Food & Beverage
The Manila Hotel, the country’s first 5-star hotel, proudly marks its 112th anniversary this 4th of July. The Grand Dame celebrates with an array of exceptional promotions tailored to delight its patrons.
Unforgettable Memories Await

Guests can enjoy a luxurious staycation with a special anniversary promo. Book a stay in a Deluxe Room for two consecutive nights at a discounted rate of ₱11,200 nett inclusive of breakfast for two persons. This offer provides an excellent opportunity to experience the unparalleled comfort and grandeur that The Manila Hotel is renowned for.
Red Jade Dim Sum All-You-Can

Red Jade invites guests to savor a delightful Dim Sum All-You-Can experience for ₱1,120 per person, available for lunch from Monday to Friday. This promotion includes unlimited Wintermelon Tea and offers a wide selection of freshly made sio mai, hakaw, dumplings, vegetable spring rolls, century egg, hot and sour soup, yang chow fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, chicken Szechuan, and chocolate buchi, among others.
Merienda Espesyal at Lobby Lounge

Indulge in a quintessential afternoon tradition of merienda with an assortment of sweet and savory Filipino delicacies, tea or coffee, and an Ilang-Ilang designed tote bag, all served in the elegant ambiance of the Lobby Lounge. Available at ₱1,912 nett per order.
The Chamberlain

Served since 1938, the Chamberlain is a favorite among gentlemen. Made with gin, lime juice, and soda, this historic cocktail has been the centerpiece of countless stories and friendships. Enjoy a glass with a free Willy the Bear stuffed toy for ₱1,912.
Unlimited Drinks at Tap Room

Unwind with unlimited drinks at Tap Room for ₱1,120 nett per person. From 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, enjoy our signature cocktails and classic drinks, and receive a complimentary Willy the Bear magnet or keychain as memorabilia.
In-Room Dining Special
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s signature Clubhouse Sandwich paired with two complimentary beverages for ₱1,120, offering an ideal choice for in-room dining, whether for a leisurely afternoon or a delightful nightcap.
M Takeout Savings
Ideal for a celebratory feast at home, guests can savor The Manila Hotel’s culinary delights with special discounts on M Takeout. For a minimum order of ₱5,000, guests will receive a ₱1,120 discount, while for orders amounting to ₱8,000 or more will enjoy a ₱1,912 discount.
To know more about these offers, please call +632 8527-0011 or +632 5301-5500, email in**@************el.com, or visit our website at www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | May 31, 2024 | Beauty
It’s Careline’s birthday, and she is turning 19! We’ve all grown up with Careline, from those first drugstore experiments to our current TikTok makeup routines. It’s a true Gen Z staple, and to celebrate 19 years of slayin’, they’re having a MAJOR sale.
Get. Every. Single. Careline. Product. For Only ₱190 This June! That’s right, stock up on all your faves (and discover some new ones) without breaking the bank.
It’s definitely a 19th birthday to remember! Here’s what you NEED to cop:
Top Picks for Your Flawless Look
Click on the image for the details of each product.
Ready to stock up on your Careline faves? Head over to Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, or your nearest Careline store. This sale is CRAZY and runs for the whole month of June, so don’t miss out! See you there, Careline fam! #Careline19 #MakeupSale #Flawlesssss
See the full list of participating stores below:

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