by | Jun 27, 2025 | Business
Michael Harris Conlin, a long-time advocate for Philippine coffee and social entrepreneurship, has been named the 2025 Philippine National Barista Champion. Conlin will represent the Philippines at the World Barista Championship to be held at HostMilano in Milan, Italy from October 17 to 21, 2025.
Michael Harris Conlin, a long-time advocate for Philippine coffee and social entrepreneurship, has been named the 2025 Philippine National Barista Champion, following his standout performance at the Philippine Barista Competition held recently at MAFBEX. His victory not only marks a personal milestone, but also reaffirms his mission: to build a beautiful coffee future by elevating Philippine coffee — through connection, unity, and bold innovation.
With this win, Conlin will represent the Philippines at the World Barista Championship, to be held at HostMilano in Milan, Italy from October 17 to 21, 2025.
This will be Conlin’s second time competing on the world stage. In 2019, he made history as the first Filipino barista to reach the semi-finals of the World Barista Championship in Boston, USA, placing 15th in the world — a groundbreaking achievement that broke the glass wall and opened the path for more Filipino baristas to follow.
This year, his goal is even higher: to reach the global top 6 — and to bring home the World Barista Championship title to the Philippines for the first time.
Known for his deep commitment to uplifting Filipino coffee farmers and creating sustainable, community-driven impact through his ventures, Conlin’s championship routine centered on the theme of “connection.” It was a compelling message woven through coffee, community, and co-creation — demonstrating that truly exceptional coffee is not a solo achievement, but a collective triumph across the value chain.
“This win isn’t just mine,” Conlin shared. “It belongs to the farmers, the roasters, the scientists, the baristas, and the dreamers who all worked together to create something extraordinary. Coffee is about co-creation — and that’s what we’re celebrating.”
At the heart of his presentation was a championship blend of Philippine Liberica (Barako) from Laguna and Colombian Mokka, developed through months of experimentation and collaboration with world-renowned Colombian producer Wilton Benitez. This bold fusion symbolized the potential of cross-cultural partnerships to transform local coffee into world-class experiences — while proudly showcasing Liberica’s unique qualities to a global audience.
Beyond the competition stage, Conlin is the founder of Henry & Sons, The Giving Café, and the Institute for Coffee Excellence, through which he has built long-term relationships with coffee farming communities across the Philippines. From advocating for fair trade and post-harvest innovation to investing in farmer education and product development, his work champions a common goal: to create a beautiful coffee future — one rooted in dignity, collaboration, and global recognition for Philippine coffee. “We’ve always believed in the beauty and potential of Barako,” he said. “This isn’t just about flavor; it’s about identity, resilience, and pride. When we unite as an industry — farmers, processors, scientists, and baristas — we don’t just compete. We resonate.”
As he prepares to return to the world stage, Conlin’s message is clear: this is more than a competition — it’s a movement. A movement to connect, to uplift, and to bring the spotlight to the richness of Philippine coffee. With passion, unity, and purpose, his dream is within reach — to bring the WBC Championship title home to the Philippines.
Michael’s competition coffees, including the Philippine Liberica Colombian Mokka coffees, are now available for coffee lovers to experience at The Giving Café, and online through Henry & Sons’ official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TheVault.ph.
For more details about the Michael Harris Conlin and his bid at the World Barista Championship stage, please visit thevault.ph.
by | Jun 26, 2025 | Business
Discover subtle, confidence-boosting beauty enhancements at MOLD Manila—the derma clinic near you that makes celebrity-level care accessible to real Filipinos.
The Truth About Fair Skin: Safe, Effective Skin Treatments Available at MOLD Manila
In the Philippines, where radiant, even-toned skin is often seen as a symbol of beauty, it’s no surprise that so many people feel the quiet, constant pressure to achieve “fair skin.” From family remarks to beauty ads, we grow up surrounded by messages that lighter is better, as if complexion alone defines worth.
But at MOLD Manila, we believe it’s time to shift that conversation. We believe fair skin isn’t about chasing an ideal — it’s about achieving skin that is healthy, clear, and truly cared for. And that begins not with promises of quick fixes, but with real, respectful care.
A Founder’s Vision: Adrielle Costales and the Heart of MOLD Manila
When Adrielle Costales founded MOLD Manila, her vision was clear. She didn’t set out to create just another aesthetic clinic. She wanted to build a place where skin care was approached with honesty, science, and heart — a place where no one would feel pressured into harsh treatments or unrealistic standards.
As a skin expert, Adrielle knows that true beauty starts with skin health. That’s why she champions holistic care: options that combine effective, non-invasive treatments with thoughtful guidance on how to nourish, protect, and love your skin every day.
She trusts in technologies like Forlle’d and Osmosis MD — not because they promise instant transformation, but because they work at a deeper level to strengthen and restore. It’s an approach that helps clients stop chasing impossible ideals and instead embrace a healthier, more radiant version of themselves.
Our Approach: Why MOLD Manila Is Different
When someone walks into our Katipunan or Baesa clinic hoping to achieve fairer skin, the first thing we offer isn’t a treatment — it’s a conversation.
We ask: What do you want to achieve? What does “fair” really mean to you? Are you hoping to change the color of your skin, or are you looking for clarity, brightness, and balance?
Time and again, we hear the same truth: most clients aren’t seeking fair skin in the way they thought. What they truly want is skin that looks clear, fresh, and even — free from the effects of sun damage, pollution, stress, or past product mistakes. They want to feel good when they look in the mirror, without compromising their skin’s health or integrity.
That’s why at MOLD Manila, we never offer shortcuts, or unsafe whitening fads. Instead, we create customized plans using science-backed treatments that support your skin’s natural health, while addressing concerns like hyperpigmentation, dullness, or uneven tone.
It’s this thoughtful, ethical approach that has helped position us among the top aesthetic clinics in the Philippines and as the best aesthetic clinic serving you.
Safe, Effective Treatments That Put Skin Health First
Every plan we create is rooted in care, not in chasing perfection. For clients seeking to brighten and balance their complexion — to achieve that healthy, luminous look without harm — we offer options like:
Forlle’d Lumiere Brightening Facial (₱5,000)
A gentle, biostimulating facial that reduces dark spots, nourishes deeply, and strengthens the skin’s natural defenses.
Hollywood Laser Peel (₱3,500 per session)
A carbon-activated laser treatment that exfoliates, refines pores, and evens tone without harsh peeling — ideal for regular maintenance of that natural glow.
NCTF Bionutrition (₱25,000 for 2mL)
A skin rejuvenation treatment that infuses vitamins, minerals, and cellular factors to leave skin brighter, hydrated, and dewy.
Exosomes Therapy (starts at ₱15,000)
Advanced cellular therapy that helps repair damaged skin, reduce inflammation, and restore clarity and resilience.
WhiteLase (starts at ₱3,500)
A dual-wave laser designed to gently target pigmentation issues, from freckles to melasma, while protecting your skin’s barrier.
Each of these treatments can be thoughtfully combined, based on your skin’s unique needs. Because real skin care isn’t about one-size-fits-all solutions — it’s about what’s right for you.
And at every step, our team — guided by Adrielle’s vision — ensures that what we recommend aligns with your long-term skin health, not fleeting trends or dangerous shortcuts.
A New Kind of Fair
At MOLD Manila, fair skin doesn’t mean forcing your complexion into something it was never meant to be. It means helping your skin reflect its best: healthy, even, luminous, and resilient.
We’re here to help you leave behind the cycle of harsh products, empty promises, and skin damage — and to guide you toward care that lifts you up, builds you up, and helps you feel confident in your own skin.
If you’re ready to choose skin care that respects you — your goals, your heritage, your health — we welcome you to start that journey with us
Read full article at: https://moldmanila.com/post/the-truth-about-fair-skin-safe-effective-skin-treatments-available-at-mold-manila
by | Jun 26, 2025 | Business
Meline Medical Aesthetics is celebrating one year of raising the bar for aesthetic care in Kawit, Cavite, offering top-tier treatments powered by medical-grade machines and industry-leading techniques.
What’s New
For the past year, Meline Medical Aesthetics has brought a new era of skin and body treatments to Cavite. The clinic is equipped with medical-grade machines typically found only in major cities. Services include skin tightening, acne treatments, laser hair removal, fat reduction, and other advanced non-surgical aesthetic procedures. Machines and non-injectables are performed by certified medical aestheticians while all injectables are performed by Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeons.
Why It Matters
High-quality aesthetic care is no longer limited to Metro Manila. Residents in Cavite now have access to safe, effective, and medically supervised treatments without the need to travel far. This not only elevates beauty standards locally but also ensures that clients receive results-driven care with proper medical oversight, something often missing in standard beauty salons.
The Meline Difference
Unlike typical beauty centers, Meline Medical Aesthetics operates with a strict commitment to safety, hygiene, and results. Every procedure is backed by science, handled by licensed professionals, and powered by machines that meet international standards. It’s not just about looking better, it’s about trusting the process is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.
“Aesthetic care is healthcare. Our goal is to deliver safe, medical-grade treatments while helping clients feel confident in their skin,” said Dr. Carmeline, Founder of Meline Medical Aesthetics.
“People shouldn’t have to compromise between convenience and quality. We’re here to make sure they don’t,” Dr. Carmeline added.
Meline Medical Aesthetics sets a new benchmark for beauty clinics in Cavite, combining cutting-edge technology with personalized, doctor-led care. Whether it’s skin rejuvenation or body contouring, clients can now access world-class treatments right in their own neighborhood.
To book an appointment or learn more, call Meline Medical Aesthetics at 046 458 1114, email me*********************@***il.com, or visit the clinic at Centennial Road, Kawit, Cavite.
by | Jun 26, 2025 | Business
The used car market in the Philippines is growing rapidly, driven by digital platforms, increasingly savvy consumers, and a steady supply of pre-owned cars. Mobee Cars leads this shift by offering a complete end-to-end online selling process, from valuation to payment, making car selling easier, safer, and more transparent.
The used car market in the Philippines is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by digital innovation, growing consumer sophistication, and a maturing automotive ecosystem. With an estimated 400,000 used car transactions per year and an average ticket size ranging from PHP 450,000 to PHP 600,000 per unit, the industry is becoming a more dominant contributor tothe country’s mobility sector. As technology reshapes buying and selling dynamics, the business of used cars no longer resides within dealerships and classified ads—it’s about accessibility, transparency, and efficiency.
The Shift: What’s Driving Growth in the Used Car Market?
Two key forces are fueling the expansion of the used car market:
1. Maturing New Car Market & Increased Supply
- As the new car market expands, vehicles naturally transition into the secondary market after a few years. This steady supply of pre-owned cars is enriching the ecosystem, creating a more structured resale market.
2. Smarter Spending & Digital Access
- More Filipinos are becoming savvy consumers, recognizing the depreciation curve of new vehicles and choosing used cars as a practical alternative.
- The rise of online marketplaces and classified platforms have democratized access to used cars, making transactions easier and more transparent than ever before.
- First-time car buyers are opting for used cars over entry-level new models, often preferring higher-end pre-owned cars over base-model new ones.
How Technology is Reshaping Used Car Sales
The traditional way of buying and selling used cars—through physical dealerships and word-of-mouth—has drastically changed. Today, digital solutions are removing geographical limitations and making transactions more efficient.
Key Digital Trends Shaping the Industry
- Online Marketplaces Dominate – The shift to digital platforms has created a more competitive and transparent pricing environment. Buyers now have access to thousands of listings at their fingertips, while sellers can reach more potential buyers instantly.
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Pricing Transparency & Competition – With price visibility across various platforms, sellers are more informed, and buyers benefit from market-driven competition, ensuring fairer pricing.
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End-to-End Digital Transactions – Platforms like Mobee Cars are digitizing the entire process—from valuation, inspection and listing, to document verification and payment facilitation—eliminating the hassle of traditional selling methods.
The Investment Opportunity in Used Cars
Despite its significant role in the economy, the used car industry in the Philippines is still in its infancy in terms of infrastructure, policies, and financing support. With used car transactions accounting for an estimated 1% of the country’s GDP, the spillover effects—ranging from logistics and storage to financing and after sales services—are massive.
Challenges and Untapped Potential
- Limited Financing for Used Cars – Consumer financing is a major driver of new car sales, but banks and financial institutions have low appetite for used car loans due to the risks associated with valuation and transparency.
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Lack of Standardized Documentation – The industry still lacks a streamlined process for verifying ownership and condition, leading to transaction risks.
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Scattered Supply Chain – Car dealers struggle with inventory consistency, while sellers face difficulties in finding reliable buyers at fair prices.
If financial institutions were to partner with platforms like Mobee, these risks could be mitigated through verified inspections, secure documentation processes, and transparent pricing, making financing more viable for used cars.
How Mobee is Leading the Transformation
Mobee Cars is positioned as the first end-to-end used car platform in the Philippines, bridging the gap between car sellers and buyers. Unlike classified ads or offline auctions, Mobee facilitates the entire transaction online:
- Sellers receive an instant valuation based on real-time market data.
- Vehicles are listed for 300+ nationwide car dealers to bid on, ensuring competitive offers.
- Inspections, documentation, and payments are all handled within the platform, making transactions secure and efficient.
For car dealers, Mobee solves the supply challenge by providing them with consistent, quality-verified used cars—essentially reshaping the supply chain of used vehicle distribution in the Philippines.
The Future of Used Car Sales in the Philippines
As the market continues to evolve, several factors will shape its future:
With a growing economy, shifting consumer awareness, and increased digital adoption, the used car industry is poised for massive growth and transformation in the coming years.
by | Jun 26, 2025 | Business
KDDI has announced that starting July 1, 2025, “povo2.0 Japan SIM” cards, which allow foreign travelers to purchase data, will be available at approximately 14,600 Lawson locations (note 1) across Japan, a major convenience store chain in Japan. Travelers can choose from four plans based on their needs: 3 GB (7 Days), 10 GB (30 Days), 25 GB (30 Days), and Unlimited Data (7 Days) (note 2). They can be purchased at the register with cash and utilize the eSIM card embedded in the customer’s device, so they can register online and connect to the internet in as little as three minutes (note 3).
Povo uses au’s network to provide a stable connection over a large area of Japan. They aim to make travel in Japan as comfortable and fulfilling as possible for foreign travelers by making it easy to connect to a fast and reliable wireless network.
■Start of service
July 1, 2025
■How to use a “povo2.0 Japan SIM”
Customers can bring a “povo2.0 Japan SIM” to the register and tell the cashier which plan they wish to purchase. After payment (cash only), the user can access the dedicated website by scanning the QR code on the reverse side, enter the PIN code found on the SIM card, and add data.
■List of “povo2.0 Japan SIM” plans
Plan name: Price
Additional 3 GB of Data (7 Days): ¥2,200
Additional 10 GB of Data (30 Days): ¥3,280
Additional 25 GB of Data (30 Days): ¥4,580
Unlimited Data (7 Days): ¥4,500
*Plans subject to change
For details, please visit: https://povo.jp/japan-sim/gift-card/
(note 1) Excludes locations that do not carry gift cards.
(note 2) Network speed may be limited during network congestion.
(note 3) Time until the user begins using the service as calculated by KDDI. This may differ based on the customer’s situation.
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