by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 4, 2018 | Awards and Competitions
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown 2018 candidates Lawrence Chua and Sabrina Ng gain an edge in the competition after being awarded Mr. and Ms. GAOC during the Cultural Costume Competition held recently at the Resorts World Manila.
Awarded for their winning smiles, both candidates will become ambassadors of GAOC – the premiere, most advanced and world-class dental implant center in the country. The Mr. And Ms. Chinatown pageant aims to promote the Filipino-Chinese culture, an advocacy shared by GAOC.
This year, 28 candidates vying for the titles and coronation will be on September 2, 2018 at SM MOA Arena.
Photo shows Lawrence Chua (right), Sabrina Ng (left) with Dr. Mary Elizabeth Marigomen (center) from GAOC.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Sep 3, 2018 | Advocacy, Awards and Competitions
The Pasig River, the cradle of early Manila civilization, is a finalist in the first ever Asia Riverprize by the prestigious International River Foundation (IRF) which recognizes and rewards organizations that make a difference through effective river basin restoration and management programs.
The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission (PRRC) just came from a successful campaign in the 2017 Thiess International Riverprize competition where they placed second to the San Antonio River of Texas, USA.
PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio E. Goitia
PRRC Executive Director Jose Antonio E. Goitia says that “the consecutive entries of the Pasig River as a finalist in the 2017 and 2018 Thiess International and Asia Riverprize, respectively, is a testament that the world recognizes the efforts of the Philippine government to restore the Pasig River and its environs since PRRC was established in 1999.”
In the beginning the competition was called the Asia-Pacific Riverprize Awards which allowed entrants from 45 countries, including New Zealand and Australia. With so many entries and because of the high quality of the said entries it as later decided to split the event into two: Asia Riverprize and Australasia Riverprize.
After much deliberation the committee decided on its finalists for Asia Riverprize, namely the Pasig River (Philippines) and the Yangtze River (China).
Asia Riverprize 2018 finalist
Goitia adds “last year, the Philippines is the only third world and developing country that made it into the international finals and bravely competed with the US and the United Kingdom. In this year’s Asia Riverprize, we will be facing another super power – the red dragon, China. However, with an indomitable spirit, we remain steadfast and optimistic that we will stand triumphant in the end.”
Criteria for judging
IRF Director Professor Bill Dennison
In behalf of the IRF’s board of river basin experts, IRF Director Professor Bill Dennison says that “these different river stories are united by a common theme: excellence in river management.”
The Riverprize is not a competition of which river is more beautiful or cleaner. This is the reason why the IRF, comprised of river management experts and professionals from around the world, has given importance and consideration to the rehabilitation efforts of the PRRC to bring back the Pasig River system to life.
It has acknowledged PRRC’s commitment in delivering quality projects, programs, and activities in easement recovery, housing and resettlement, riverbanks development, waste and water quality management, and public awareness.
The Pasig River – past, present, and future
There has been significant improvement to the condition of the Parig River where it was once declared in the 90’s as “biologically dead”. While still a work in progress many areas along the historic river have already shown signs of acquatic life. In addition, it has now become conducive to transport, recreation, and tourism.
The Pasig River prepares to win the coveted award
Mr. Jose Antonio E. Goitia, PRRC’s Executive Director, together with Mr. George Oliver G. dela Rama, Division Head of the Public Information Advocay and Tourism join forces to present and defend the Philippines’ Pasig River entry an esteemed panel of judges in the upcoming 21st International Riversymposium on October 14 to 18, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. Other PRRC Management Committee members are also part of the Philippine delegation.
The winner of this prestigious event will receive widespread global recognition, which will, additionally:
- build new partnerships
- provide opportunities for exchange of knowledge and best practices
- open doors for international support
Also, the winner will automatically qualify for Stage Two of the Thiess International Riverprize in 2019.
As one nation, the PRRC seeks everyone’s support to its Pasig River entry in the 2018 Asia Riverprize. The Pasig River’s victory is the victory of the Philippines and every Filipino who works hard and shares the same vision of saving our waterways and the environment. It will be the triumph of all who believe that the dream of a clean and alive Pasig River is within reach!
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 31, 2018 | Advocacy
Nearly 450 AXA Philippines employees recently gathered to donate their time and skills as volunteers in the company’s annual Corporate Responsibility Week, an event observed by AXA entities all over the world.
Themed “CR Week in Action,” the week-long celebration touched 2,250 lives by partnering with several non-government organizations and foundations with advocacies that focus on health, education, and the environment.
NGOs involved in CR Week in Action
Among the roster of NGOs were:
- Metrobank Foundation,
- Hands on Manila,
- Rise Against Hunger,
- Simply Share in Cebu,
- National Bookstore Foundation,
- Adarna House, Inc.,
- Manila Doctors Hospital,
- Philippine Red Cross – Rizal and Cebu Chapters,
- Make-A-Wish Foundation, and
- The University of San Carlos in Cebu City.
About Corporate Responsibility Week
“AXA’s annual Corporate Responsibility Week is part of our continuing commitment to empower communities to live better lives,” said AXA Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora. “We thank our employees for giving their time and sharing their expertise to help our various advocacies.”
AXA Philippines President and CEO Rahul Hora together with AXA employees packed meals for the indigenous people community in Pampanga
AXA Philippines volunteers packed meals for Aeta mothers and their families in Porac, Pampanga to last six months; packed food for students of Napo Elementary School in Cebu to last three months; and 150 candles and mosquito traps for the mothers of Trece Martires, Cavite.
AXA Philippines employees gathered together as volunteers in the company’s annual Corporate Responsibility Week
- A blood drive was also held with Philippine Red Cross and Manila Doctors Hospital.
- A training session on first aid and financial literacy was conducted for mothers and children in Cebu.
- Volunteers are also set to run at the Philippine Red Cross run for a cause.
- Books are set to be delivered to the library of Napo Elementary School.
- Project Aral Kits from National Book Store will go to underprivileged students.
- Volunteers also made the wishes of kids with life-threatening illnesses come true.
To know more about AXA Philippines and the Corporate Responsibility Week, visit https://www.facebook.com/AXA.Philippines and https://www.axa.com.ph.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 30, 2018 | Beauty
Ever Bilena’s Sculpt and Strobe Stick (P225) is the newest make-up go-to for a bright and glowing, well-defined look. The 2-in-1 cream-based stick helps sculpt your face to enhance your facial structure and illuminate it for a glowing look.
The Sculpt and Strobe Stick comes in Medium for fairer skin and Deep that is best suited for darker skin tones. Also, this product is Paraben-and-cruelty-free. It is available through Lazada and major retail stores nationwide.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 28, 2018 | Beauty
Level up your hygiene and confidence with Blackwater’s Deo Soap (P32) for men with active ingredients that fight body odor-causing germs.
Get it in four variants for an all-day fresh and confident feeling:
- Fiery Red
- Green Horizon
- Grey Marble
- and Ultra Marine
Crafted to moisturize and cleanse your skin, Blackwater Deo Soap brings out your masculinity to keep you smelling good throughout the day.
This is available in leading supermarkets and department stores nationwide. For more information visit http://blackwater.com.ph/products/men/body/.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 25, 2018 | Technology
Gone are the days of 2G networks, hard-to-press keypads, and 3MP cameras on cell phones as flagship brands offer more advanced and user-friendly features to provide the best service for users. Marking its annual celebration of Cybermonth this August, SM has its pulse on the trends with a list of smartphone must-have features to consider when shopping for new phones!
Smartphone features
Biometrics
Biometrics are now used to lock smartphones and keep our private data safe. The most common biometric security features include fingerprint scanning, face recognition and even iris scanning. It is best to buy smartphones with a biometrics feature to ensure the security of files.
Multiple cameras
Most smartphones are already equipped with back and front cameras but there are phones with dual rear cameras emerging in the market now. Smartphones with multiple cameras are perfect for those who love to take selfies or professional-like images without the hassle of bringing heavy camera equipment every day or during travels.
Wireless charging
Many popular brands are now adapting wireless charging where users can simply place their smartphones on top of a charging block, stand or mat and leave it to charge. It’s neater, faster and hassle-free.
Voice control
This feature enables users to do tasks on their smartphones without using their hands and is best for those who drive and are always pressed for time. Through voice control, users can play music, answer calls, open apps or find files by just speaking directly to the device’s microphone.
Waterproof
It is best to get a waterproof phone to protect it from spills, humidity, rain showers and sometimes, even full immersion underwater.
Storage
256GB storage. Big storage space enables users to store more files, photos and videos and to install more apps.
Front-facing speakers
photo courtesy of phonearena.com
Speakers are important for those who watch movies and videos on their phones a lot or for those who like entertainment on-the-go.
Big-screen display
For those who like to stream videos and edit photos on their phones, it is best to get a smartphone with a screen size ranging from 5.5 to 6 inches in full HD display.
Powerful processor
Smartphone processors run web browsing, GPS, music streaming, videos, 4G connectivity and other scores of tasks performed by our phone on a daily basis. For those who use their phones often, it is best to look for devices with a powerful chipset, such as Apple’s A11 Bionic, Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660, Exynos 9810, and HiSilicon Kirin 970 among others.
Multi-window
This feature is perfect for those who like to multi-task. It enables the user to accomplish different tasks at once such as watching a move while browsing on Google or messaging a friend while video-calling another.
Smartphones continues to evolve, that is why it is exciting to shop for gadgets with the most advanced features.
As part of Cybermonth and SM’s #AweSM 60 years celebration, you can discover a wide range of mobile phones with the latest must-have features. Score amazing gadgets on August 24 to 26 as SM Supermalls treats shoppers with a fun weekend of #AweSM tech finds and deals – where you can experience 60-themed deals, such as:
- pay only 60%,
- less Php60, or
- pay only Php60,
on #AweSM items in participating stores!
Visit your favorite SM mall now, or check www.smsupermalls.com for more details.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 18, 2018 | Events
Top implant surgeons from Asia: James I-Sheng Huang from Taiwan, Sok Chenh Chhean from Cambodia and Gary Brillo from Manila were recently featured as key speakers at the 27th Philippine Academy of Implant Dentistry (PAID) Annual Convention and Induction Ceremony at the Okada Hotel Manila. Convention theme was “Honing Skills towards a Wider Horizon.”
The implant experts share their knowledge and expertise on dental implantology and the latest developments in the field. Also at the convention was PAID president Dr. Levy Louie Villaruel (seated at the center).The convention was co-presented by Straumann, the world’s leader in implant, restorative and regenerative dentistry, exclusively distributed by GT Industries in the Philippines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 16, 2018 | Business
Citi, the country’s leading foreign bank, remains positive about economic growth in the Philippines despite current global market volatility. At a series of mid-year outlook events, Citigold clients heard expert views on the current market environment and implications for investment strategy shared by Citi and guest speakers.
Manoj Varma, Consumer Banking Head of Citi
Citi’s consumer banking head Manoj Varma opened the sessions and explained the importance of understanding risks and opportunities when investing. Varma said, “Citigold clients look for trusted advice and up-to-date information, especially during times of market volatility.”
Ramon, Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head
According to Ramon Tejero, Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Inc. (CFSI) investment product head, market data shows that we are in the midst of the second longest and third strongest equity bull market since 1970. Recent market volatility has been primarily caused by rising interest rates, potential trade wars, and geopolitical tensions.
“Despite market concerns, there appear to be opportunities in technology, financials, healthcare, and industrials due to continued earnings growth in these sectors,” said Tejero.
The economic climate in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Citi believes the country’s economic growth momentum will be sustained in the coming years. Citi forecasts GDP will grow by 6.8% in 2018 and 6.7% in 2019. A primary source of growth will be the government’s infrastructure program.
Citi Philippines consumer banking head Manoj Varma (2nd from right) joined speakers who shared their expertise with Citigold clients at the 2018 Mid-Year Market Outlook (L-R): Kelvin Lam of Allianz Global Investors, Anis Tiasiri of J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Julian Tarrobago of ATR Asset Management Inc., and Ramon Tejero of Citicorp Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines Inc.
However, businesses and consumers are showing cautious optimism on the back of ongoing inflation concerns. Citi expects inflation to top 5.3% in the third quarter of 2018 before declining to below 5.0% in the following quarter.
“Investors can focus on diversification across asset classes and geographies and income themes while watching out for tactical opportunities,” concluded Tejero.
Citi Philippines Retail Bank head Rene Aguirre (right) welcomes clients to the 2018 Mid-Year Outlook along with Citigroup Financial Services and Insurance Brokerage Philippines president Lester Cruz.
“The world is indeed shrinking and when, where, and how we invest is largely influenced not only by domestic factors but also by global market events,” said Rene Aguirre, Citi Retail Bank head. “As trusted advisors, we help our clients grow and protect their wealth. In recent months, 10 new investment products have been launched and digital innovations continue to be developed, such as the recently unveiled next-generation Citi mobile app.”
For more information, visit www.citibank.com.ph.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 15, 2018 | Business
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed has once again bagged awards from yet another prestigious award-giving body, the 2018 Philippine Quill Awards held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.
Essilor’s Eye Can Succeed, which received the merit award for Communication Management under the Corporate Social Responsibility category, aims to help Filipino senior high school students achieve better sight by providing free eye check-ups and giving free eyeglasses to those in need.
The Eye Can Succeed campaign is a program launched last year by Essilor Vision Foundation (EVF), the philanthropic arm of Essilor which is committed to eliminating poor vision and providing underprivileged people the opportunity to live a better life through better sight.
The Philippine Quill Awards is presented by the local division of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), and honors dedication, innovation and passion of communicators on a global scale. For more information, visit Essilor’s website at www.essilor.com.ph, and follow @EssilorPH on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Aug 14, 2018 | Discounts, Sales, and Giveaways
Lazada, the country’s leading online shopping and selling destination, is set to launch its biggest series of Flash Sales this August 15, dubbed as “Wild Wednesday.” With big discounts of up to 88%, these deals will be spread out among three Flash Sales which will happen in the morning, at noon, and at night.
Over 100,000 Items Up for Grabs
Don’t miss the chance to buy some of Lazada’s novelty items such as umbrellas and necklaces for as low as Php 39. Top tech items such as power banks, wireless mouse and electric drills are also up for grabs, for up to 50% off.
Some of Lazada’s bestselling beauty products will catch your attention too. Among these include Precious Pad Nature’s Lemon Spa and Noni Soap for just Php 25, Aztec Clay for Php 39, and Ever Bilena’s City Romance Liquid Lipstick Beauty set at over 60% off.
Over 300,000 Flash Sale Fans
“Lazada has been working closely with its brands, sellers, and customers to provide the best online shopping and selling experience. For our sellers, Wild Wednesday is a great opportunity for better visibility and store ratings. With over 300,000 visitors each flash sale, the platform really is a wild win for everyone.” said Lazada CEO, Ray Alimurung.
Nationwide Free Delivery
It doesn’t stop at discounts. Lazada will also offer nationwide free delivery for any flash sale purchase this coming Wild Wednesday. Mark your calendars and gear up for the wildest Wednesday online shopping has ever seen. Visit www.lazada.com.ph or download the Lazada mobile app for free today to join the hump day fun.
About Lazada Group
Launched in 2012, Lazada is the number-one online shopping and selling destination in Southeast Asia – present in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. As the pioneer of the eCommerce ecosystem in Southeast Asia, Lazada has about 350,000 sellers and 3,000 brands serving 560 million consumers in the region through its tech-driven platform, supported by a wide range of tailored marketing, data, and service solutions.
Lazada offers the widest range of products in categories from consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion, sports equipment and groceries. Focused on delivering an excellent customer experience, it offers multiple payment methods including cash-on-delivery, comprehensive customer care and hassle-free returns through its own first and last mile delivery arm supported by approximately 100 logistics partners. Lazada Group is majority owned by Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA)
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