Wednesday, November 29, 2023


Effective Investor Relations. The Jollibee Group was recognized with multiple citations for its investor relations work at the 13th Institutional Investor Corporate Awards. In photo are Cossette B. Palomar, AVP and Head of Investor Relations (right) and Rechelle M. Quinio, Investor Relations Officer (left). Also part of the team is Monavie Ariem-Naguit, Senior Manager for Corporate Planning and Investor Relations (not in photo).





MANILA, Philippines.– The Jollibee Group won multiple citations, including the Most Improved Investor Relations (IR) among Philippine companies, at the Alpha Southeast Asia’s 13th Institutional Investor Corporate Awards 2023.



The Jollibee Group was among the eight (8) best-managed companies in the Philippines. It was also cited in three of the five main categories, including ‘Most Organized Investor Relations,’ ‘Best Senior Management IR Support,’ and ‘Most Consistent Dividend Policy.’



Investor choices for the categories mentioned were narrowed down to the top five. The Jollibee Group ranked fourth in the ‘Most Organized Investor Relations,’ second in the ‘Best Senior Management IR Support,’ and fourth in the ‘Most Consistent Dividend Policy.’



“We are honored to have been given these recognitions, which validate our collective efforts in the company to drive excellence, consistency, and innovation in what we do,” said Richard Shin, Jollibee Group Chief Financial Officer. “This award comes at an opportune time as we are celebrating our 45 years in business, and so we share this recognition with our investors, whose trust and confidence in the Jollibee Group inspire us to continue delivering value and our mission of serving great-tasting food, bringing the joy of eating to everyone.”



Thirty-eight (38) publicly listed companies from Southeast Asia were ranked in this year’s poll. The winners were determined by the Corporate Institutional Investor Poll, which is the first and only Southeast Asian focused poll and the leading perceptions-based poll that gauges performance in financial management, adherence to corporate governance, integrated reporting, corporate social responsibility, and investor relations.



The Alpha Southeast Asia team successfully collected votes from more than 586 participants across the region, as well as the US and Europe. The participants included fund managers with investment interests in Southeast Asia, large institutional investors, insurance companies, pension funds, funds of hedge funds, private banks, equity and fixed income brokers, and buy and sell-side analysts.



Established in 2007, Alpha Southeast Asia is the first and only institutional investment magazine focused on Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam).



Monday, November 27, 2023




The Philippines possesses a beauty that just begs to be explored. And riding a motorcycle while exploring the wonders of the country gives the ultimate sense of freedom.

Before undertaking such an endeavor, it’s important to plan your trip carefully. To this end, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country offers these tips to ensure your first On-Road adventure is not just memorable but will become the first of many.

Remember GOT TO BE SAFE - One of the first things a rider should do before going on an adventure is to make sure your motorcycle is in excellent condition. This is where the acronym GOT TO BE SAFE comes in. This refers to a motorcycle’s General Appearance, Oil, Tires, Tension of Chain, Operations of Controls, Brakes, Engine, Side Mirrors, Alignment of Steering, Fuel, and Electricals.

More importantly, this acronym is designed to help remind motorcyclists as to the components you need to check before riding your bike, whether on your first - or thirty-first - on-road adventure.



Wear the proper riding safety gear - Another important aspect of riding is to wear the proper riding gear. While wearing a certified helmet is a given, you should also consider other safety gear when going on an On-Road adventure. This is to help prevent or at least mitigate any physical injury. Examples of safety riding gear include gloves, protective boots, a riding jacket, and safety pads for your knees and elbows.

Check the weather and your route - Proper planning is another important aspect that can make or break your On-Road adventure. Make sure the weather is good before hitting the road to ensure a safe ride. Additionally, it’s a good idea to stick to established routes when going on your first adventure. An established route can offer things like pit and emergency stops for unforeseen issues. Don’t worry; as you gain more riding experience, you can certainly explore less beaten paths.

Be prepared for emergencies - Being prepared for anything while on the road is also another important element that can make your first On-Road adventure is a memorable experience. Essential to this is bringing along emergency equipment such as a first aid kit, a flashlight, some tools, and extra cash.

CB150X: Perfect for On-Road adventures. Of course, you can’t have an On-Road adventure without the proper motorcycle, and the CB150X (SRP: Php173,900.00) specifically features an adventure bike design highlighted by the familiar upright seating position, High Windscreen to minimize wind drag, Tapered Handlebar for better grip and handling, stylish Cockpit Design, Duck Fender, and Adventure Style Under Cowl protection. This design gives you a more comfortable ride over long distances, as well as adequate undercarriage protection against road debris - while providing a head-turning sporty style. Meanwhile, the bike’s All LED Lighting System and Fully Digital Meter Panel ensures outstanding visibility of the road and display your bike’s information, respectively.

The CB150X also features 149cc, 4-Stroke, 4-Valve, DOH Liquid-Cooled, PGMI-FI engine with 11.5kW of max power @9,000rpm and 13.8Nm of max torque. Likewise, its Showa-designed Inverted Front Suspension and full disc braking system provides maximum handling control and stopping power. These engineered elements when combined with its 12-Liter fuel tank and fuel efficiency rating of 38.0 Km/L based on Extra Urban Driving Cycle (EUDC) test method, you get a bike that gives you outstanding performance for longer rides.

There’s nothing quite like going on an On-Road adventure especially in and around our truly spectacular country. If you’re a first timer, this undertaking can certainly be daunting. However, if you have these tips in mind, and the CB150X, every journey is like an opportunity to explore the world around you.

For more information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on Honda’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook (facebook.com/hondaph) and Instagram (instagram.com/hondaph_mc/), YouTube (HondaPhilippines_Motorcycle) and Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) or contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Sunday, November 26, 2023


#noheartlesha


Just when you least expect it, Gen Z’s rising rockstar and femme ingenious Lesha has recently dropped another surefire ‘hit’ single entitled ‘no heart’. Expect this new track to offer fresh spins. Of course, coming from the fearless singer/songwriter Lesha; no doubt she’s going to dish out a different kind of vibe.




“no heart” is an anthem of empowerment and resilience, where the act of dancing symbolizes the ability to move forward and embrace life with a fearless heart. It embodies the essence of danceable dark pop with its combination of catchy beats and lyrics about self- discovery, and unapologetically being oneself.



Lesha is very enthusiastic about this song's debut. She shares, “I’m really excited for this one ‘coz of how different it is from my last release GO TO HELL!!! This track is leaning more into the dark dance pop side - a genre I’m well known for. I can’t wait to perform this song live soon!”




You can also say that no heart is quite different from her previous tracks. For one, this is a very bouncy danceable anthem. The track that you listen to when you want to boost up your energy and confidence. Lesha has also incorporated different vocal chops into the song’s production working with her US based producer De’La and LA-based songwriter Krizia Carbonell .




“I wrote this song with LA-based songwriter Krizia Carbonell and I remember us just coming up with the concept of empowerment and not caring about what anyone else thinks in reference to the ‘dancing with no heart’ line. While the line “glowing in the dark” metaphorically symbolizes just me being an untouchable magical force or in general as someone who possesses power,” Lesha emphasizes.




It has always been her trademark for all the songs to share her feelings and innermost thoughts. For “no heart” lyrics, she expressed her own imperfections in the context of a troubled relationship. Her self realization led her to make amends that she wasn’t as bad as she was made to believe. While the idea of ‘dancing’ as symbolism used in the song, reflects a sense of liberation or living without holding back and just allowing herself to have control over how she moves through life.

Lesha can only attest how “no heart “ has made a great impact on her life. “It is a song that I wrote about a phase in my life where I finally decided to move on and not care about what anyone thought of me.”

2023 is almost ending but Lesha remains unstoppable in her pace moving forward and achieving a whole lot more. “For now I’m focusing on my upcoming plans for next year as we prepare to drop more singles and hopefully I get to perform all my new songs live soon too!”




As a true believer of manifestation, Lesha shares what’s on her mind lately and what she is manifesting to happen sooner than you think.




“A lot of my fans would agree with me on this, but I honestly can’t wait to drop another unreleased song of mine called Skin2Skin. It’s also produced by De’La and written by me in LA last year. I’ve been performing it at all my live shows this year and it organically built its own fanbase on social media! So, wait for it!”




Listen to “no heart” on Lesha’s Spotify. Check out other social media platforms-- Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok for more updates.

Saturday, November 25, 2023



Regardless of the season, SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan will make everyday a holiday as the malls bring in some of the latest additions to their exciting mix of food tenants for a fun and exciting shopping experience.

Perfect for the season of giving, SM City Marilao welcomes Caramia Cakes & Gelato. Sweet tooth or not, one can’t resist Caramia’s premium lineup of cakes, gelato, and shakes that are enough to make any celebration or a simple day merrier.



Here you may find Caramia’s bestseller cakes, such as Ube Cake, Midnight Dream, Pistaccio Cioccolato, and Salted S’mores. Of course, their all-time favorite gelato flavors include Pistachio, Chocolate Therapy, and Cookies & Cream. Also try their newest offerings— Mango Cream Pie, and gelato in Maltesers and Peach Mango Caramel flavors. Whether it’s a gift, a treat, or a simple craving, Caramia Cakes & Gelato will surely fit any occasion or anyone’s heart. Visit them now at the second level of SM City Marilao.



A highly recommended place to drink, eat, and unwind unveils as Nextgen Cafe opens at the ground-level, mall annex of SM City Baliwag. Shoppers will be thrilled, as Nextgen Cafe is the ideal place to stay with its cozy ambience and enticing menu.



Seize the day with a sip of their specialty coffee, such as CafĂ© Español, CafĂ© Yemen, and Vietnamese Coffee. Compliment your drinks with their bestseller menu—bacon, sausage, spam, choice of wafflesor rice- serve with omelet. The store also offers refreshing Sensazione series drinks available in 10 irresistible flavors, among others. Furthermore, Nextgen CafĂ© is pet-friendly, so fur parents are welcome to chill here with their pets, with rules applied accordingly.



Call the squad and assemble for a yummy feast as The Crunch – Boneless Fried Chicken opens at the ground level of SM Center Pulilan. Indulge in their unique style of tasty and mouthwatering boneless fried chicken. The store offers Chicken Shots, Shots Bucket, Half Chicken (6 pcs/flavor), and Whole Chicken (12 pcs/flavor), available in different delicious flavors such as Classic, Honey Garlic, K-Style, Spicy K-Style, Teriyaki, Cheesy Bacon, and Texas BBQ.



Plan your next food crawl and visit the latest food destinations only at SM Bulacan malls. Stay updated, as the malls will unveil some of the best store concepts in the coming days. Follow the social media pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan for the latest trends and happenings.





TCL C755 presents outstanding brightness and darkness in every corner of the frame.





TCL Electronics, a leading brand in consumer electronics and TV manufacturing and the World's Top 2 TV brand, is finally revealing the next generation gaming TV dubbed as the “Ultra Game Master”. It is set to break barriers in QD Mini LED technology.




The new TCL C755 gives superior light control and precise dimming zones in all corners of the TV screen. With its incomparable picture quality, more defined color perfection and exceptional gaming features, you’ll be amazed by this ultra revolutionary product.




“The long wait is over! We are very happy to announce the coming of the new TCL C755 that will give every gamer’s fantasy in terms of giving them the ultimate gaming experience. This one is truly going to level up your expectations in a gaming TV,” says Mr. Loyal Cheng, TCL Philippines Chief Executive Officer.







A Visual Masterpiece





Speaking of exceptional eye feast, the TCL QD-Mini LED is a superb visual masterpiece that presents astonishingly vivid visuals with lifelike colors and an ultra-high contrast ratio. It is highlighted with higher peak brightness, a wider color gamut, a larger screen size, and a longer lifespan, making it a leading-edge display technology.




In terms of its dimming capability, the entire screen is finely divided into over 1344 zones. The full array local dimming precisely corrects and balances the backlight and image by calculating the brightness intensity for each zone based on image signals, ensuring that each frame can show more light and shadow details in ultra contrast ratio.




The TCL C755 also utilizes the Quantum Dot technology where it unveils over 1,000,000,000 hues of vibrant and precise colors, providing a wider color volume of up to 96% according to the DCI-P3 standard. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors, where every shade comes to life with unmatched brilliance and depth. The HDR 1600 nits peak brightness capability provides a remarkable vivid visual for variable lighting conditions, even in broad daylight. Enjoy the details hidden in the sunny or shadowy scene.




This newest model also boasts of AI picture quality processor through the AiPQ Processor 3.0 that perceives and thinks like a clever mind to capture every detail in the real world into its rich database and to perform simulation and optimization based on human recognition. It finally reproduces visual outputs based on vibrant color, excellent contrast, and crystal clarity as you see in the natural world.



Exceptional Gaming

Experience next-level gaming with the best elevating technology in action dubbed as the Game Master 2.0. Unlock advanced display and audio experience by trying smoother streaming with the TCL Game Master.




The TCL C755 also puts an end to choppy gameplay and broken frames with fluid,

artifact-free performance at virtually any frame with its AMD FreeSync Premium Pro technology. For a better gaming performance, the HDMI2.1*4 allows for higher resolutions, higher frame rates and a lot more bandwidth.




While the Aiming Aid feature helps you quickly and effortlessly aim at your target. Go find the Aiming Aid in the game bar and activate it! For the smooth gaming experience, the revolutionary variable refresh rate @144Hz lets you on track with your need for speed.







Superb Sound Quality




Bring the ultimate theater experience to your home through the TCL C755’s combined power of ONKYO's 2.0 CH 50W Hi-Fi. Immerse yourself in the captivating stereo sound and thunderous bass, capturing every detail as if you were at a live band performance.




Dive into sound reimagined and be amazed with the unprecedented depth, clarity, and details that the Dolby Atmos feature can offer.




While the DTS® VIRTUAL:X™ brings a compatible and immersive sound master at your home. Experience improved sound immersion and heightened realism that make every scene intensely shown on the screen.




Discover more about TCL C755 Ultra Game Master and level up your gaming experience. Available at all authorized TCL Dealers. For more information about the TCL C645, go to https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.







Folk dancers hired by the City Tourism Department welcome the passengers and crew of the luxury cruise ship - MS Silver Whisper as it arrives in Puerto Princesa. The 610-foot, 10-storey vessel is touted as a cruise ship for the rich and famous; the first of six cruise ships that will be visiting Puerto Princesa’s shores.








The after-effects of the Covid-19 Pandemic which crippled the tourism industry can still be felt in the Philippines. However, Puerto Princesa, the “Heart of the Best Island in the World,” harnesses its vast potential not only as a destination of choice but also as a preferred center of MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and events) to forge ahead and move forward.



Paradise in Profile



Puerto Princesa is the center of trade and commerce, education, communications, and public administration of Palawan. Its strategic location is within the growth corridor of the BIMP East ASEAN Growth Area.



Known for its UNESCO World Heritage site Underground River, it shares 50 percent of the tourist arrivals in Palawan and in the region, making it the biggest contributor to its economic growth. In 2020, Palawan logged a partial number of 157,051 tourist arrivals, 71,889 of which were visits to PPC.



A tropical paradise with a bustling urban center perfect for business-with-leisure trips, PP is blessed with lush rainforests and white-sand beaches hours away from the city proper, where a banking and commercial boom has made life easier for workaholics and busybodies.



Puerto Princesa is a relatively young settlement, having been established as a city only in 1970. The first settlers arrived on March 4, 1872; a date celebrated every year as the foundation day of the city.



As part of the Philippines’ last frontier, the city is rich in natural resources. It is the country’s largest city with a land area of 253,982 hectares. A chain of mountain ranges runs through the entire length of the city, dividing it into two distinct areas – the East Coast and the West Coast.



A significant portion of the city retains its indigenous vegetation, rainforest, mangroves, and coastal ecosystem, all of which support an amazing array of wildlife. In terms of species biodiversity and its wide range of ecosystems, Puerto Princesa is of national significance.



The famous and must-visit Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which was formerly known as Saint Paul’s Subterranean River National Park, covering a protected area of 22,202 hectares is a haven to endemic flora and fauna. UNESCO has inscribed the park as a World’s Heritage Site on December 4, 1999.



Calendar of Events
The Norwegian Jewel carrying with it around 3,000 passengers and crew is the second of the six cruise ships calling port in Puerto Princesa.



With a tropical climate and the warm welcome of its people, foreign and Filipino tourists can bask in Puerto Princesa’s embrace all-year round. In January is the Chinoy Festival, which celebrates the new year with ground firecrackers at the Chinatown Center, and with dragon dances and lion dances in major malls and hotels. Every February 14 is the Love Affair with Nature, which is marked by a mass wedding as well as letting citizens express their love for Mother Nature through participating in mangrove tree planting activities.



In March is the Balayong Festival, which commemorates the founding anniversary of Puerto Princesa highlighted by street dancing, float parade and planting of Palawan Cherry Blossoms. In April is the Pangalipay sa Baybay, a summer extravaganza at the baywalk. Activities kick off with parade and fireworks display, dance competition, cheerdancing and boat race.



In June is the “Pista y ang Cagueban,” a time when citizens celebrate the Feast of the Forest and plant thousands of different tree species.



September is Tourism Month, which is celebrated with great performances, exotic cuisines and a showcase of various talents and services in the local tourism industry. Every third Sunday of September is Coastal Cleanup Day, an international activity whose objective is to preserve and safeguard Mother Earth’s resources along the shorelines.



November is the Subaraw Festival, which is a fun-and-activity-filled celebration of Puerto Princesa’s very rich biodiversity. December celebrates Light a Tree, a merry event where a giant Christmas tree is lit up to start the Yuletide Season. This comes with Christmas carols, dances, and music.



Mighty MICE



The Department of Tourism sees the huge potential of Puerto Princesa, a city known for its remarkable attributes in MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), as a preferred location for meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE).



In May, Regional Director Zeny Pallugna of DOT MIMAROPA in a discussion with City Tourism Department (CTD) chief Demetrio Alvior Jr. Said they are pushing for Puerto Princesa as a MICE destination, where tourists can be enticed to stay longer to enjoy the city’s attractions.



During the “Amos Ta Ren sa Puerto Princesa” radio show, Pallugna said that the city is well on its way into becoming a MICE location because of it is capable of hosting events such as Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa and an international dragon boat competition.



“Aside from that, maybe in the future we can conduct a 101 on MICE. We can do that, and then identify the different function facilities for the MICE market,” Pallugna said, as quoted by Palawan News, so the regional tourism office can start promoting the city at the end of the year, or next year.



Another goal for Palawan, Pallugna emphasized, is to train more community tour guides, and recalibrate their skills continuously, so they could help promote and showcase the “Filipino brand of service” globally.



“The second thing is—MIMAROPA is, whether they like it or not, we are the cruise capital of the Philippines. Imagine it, we have 139 cruise calls in the Philippines, 22 of them is in Puerto Princesa; 41 total within the MIMAROPA Region,” Pallugna pointed out.



The regional director of the DOT also mentioned that they plan to introduce the national program called “Philippine Experience” to the city, which includes the well-received Suroy-Suroy sa Sugbo, which the local tourism body plans to replicate.



Alvior, meanwhile, said that Puerto Princesa’s main focus is on the MICE industry. As such, City Mayor Lucilo Bayron actively encourages investors and venture capitalists to build convention centers in strategic areas such as Quito and the environmental estate in Barangay Sta. Lucia.



“Actually, we were discussing tourism activities, and the mayor suggested that we should expand the Quito area. There is a focus on MICE, so we are working on establishing convention centers,” Alvior was quoted by Palawan News.




Cruise Capital



This November, Puerto Princesa City enjoyed a surge in tourist arrivals with the celebration of the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival, which drew international participants, and the scheduled arrivals of more cruise ships as Christmas approaches.



During the opening ceremny of the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival, Mayor Lucilo Bayron said that the aim of the city to make the event international is once again gaining momentum after being adversely impacted by the pandemic. In recent years.



“We need to add more international events to attract more tourists from other countries. And this year, we have incorporated international events in the celebration – wild bird photography race, Ironman 70.3 challenge, and international dragon boat race. Our Miss Subaraw is already a national event with the winner coming from Angeles, Pampanga, and this year, we already have 10 foreign candidates,” Mayor Bayron said, as quoted by Palawan News.



Meanwhile, a luxury ocean liner called MS Silver Whisper dropped anchor in the city in early November, indicating greater opportunities for the local tourism industry to prosper.



Touted as a cruise ship for the rich and famous, the MS Silver Whisper brought 382 vacationers and a crew of around 300. Registered in Nassau, Bahamas, the 610-foot, 10-storey vessel is operated by Monaco-headquartered Silversea Cruises.



The MS Silver Whisper is the first of six cruise ships that will be visiting Puerto Princesa’s shores this November, the City Tourism Department excitedly announced.



CTD chief Demetrio Alvior, Jr. said that guests aboard the ship will tour several key attractions in Puerto Princesa, with the underground river in Barangay Cabayugan on top of the list. The ship will then sail off to their next port of call in Coron, also in Palawan.



The city anticipates heightened tourism and overall economic activity with upcoming cruise ship arrivals scheduled on November 4, 8, 16, 18 and 28, Alvior shared.



Five more massive vessels are scheduled to arrive in November and December will welcome the MV Norwegian Jewel and the MV Aida Bella. The MV Norwegian Jewel will bring in about 2,500 people; the MS Westerdam, 1,964 individuals; and the MS Star Breeze, around 327 passengers.



Alvior noted that unlike in the past when international tourists arrived mainly by airplane, the city’s expanded tourism program has paved the way for more visitors to arrive by sea.



The city official said that stakeholders in the tourism sector are being encouraged to provide exemplary service that will showcase the renowned Filipino hospitality to solidify Puerto Princesa’s place as a tourism center and give the local economy a much-needed boost.



Alvior also encouraged Puerto Princesa’s tourism frontliners to treat all visitors with the highest level of care and to exemplify the unique Filipino standard of service.



“The influx of tourists will keep us on our toes, but it's a bustling pace we look forward to," Alvior told Palawan News.

Friday, November 24, 2023


Photo by Ted Orsenado

After staging concert productions and special shows featuring some of the most iconic bands in the Philippines and overseas, GNN wraps up the year with their annual year-end event happening at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, on December 15, 2023 (Saturday), at 7 p.m. onwards.




Keeping things closer to home this time around, the Manila-based production outfit will be holding an intimate show with some of their favorite collaborators on the bill, including The Ransom Collective and Oh, Flamingo!, whom GNN has worked with for their sold-out tenth anniversary concert this year; SOS, Ang Bandang Shirley, and Ciudad—three of the bands that were part of GNN’s journey when they were just starting out as an indie production doing bi-monthly shows in Route and Saguijo in 2015.




Firmly rooted in the culture of fostering community and inclusivity through live music, the GNN Year-End 2023 aims to continue the tradition of producing shows that champion the independent music scene while remaining firm to their ideals and ethos as a passion project that continues to grow with the demand of the times.


This year, GNN has presented and produced some of the most memorable shows of the year such as the reunion concert of Philippine R&B royalty Kyla and Jay-R, the 20th anniversary of Sugarfree’s Sa Wakas album (featuring Ebe Dancel), the 25th anniversary concert of Barbie Almalbis (including the reunion of Barbie’s Cradle and Hungry Young Poets), Zark’s Fest 2023, Linya-Linya Land, and the intimate concert of Clara Benin—just to name a few.




The Filipino production group are also set to welcome Taiwanese math-rock outfit Elephant Gym (co-production with The Rest Is Noise PH) and Indonesian pop-rock band Reality Club to the Philippine shores next month for two headline shows at the 123 Block and Balcony Music House, respectively.




Early bird tickets go on sale today at PHP 700 for a limited time only. Regular/door tickets will be available for PHP 800. Secure a slot here: bit.ly/gnnyep23




This event is presented by GNN and 123 Block.




In the Philippines, the second half of the year not only signals the start of the long countdown to Christmas, but also monsoon season. Traditionally, typhoons sweep across the country during this time, often aggravating the south-western spell (“Habagat”) that trigger flooding and other concerns.



At least 20 typhoons hit the Philippine area of responsibility every year, with the violent ones often posing the biggest threat to human lives and industry, that may result in costly economic loses and damages.

Given the frequency of natural hazard events in the country, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI)—the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country—ensures that its Environment, Health, Safety, and Security (EHSS) teams are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to mitigate disaster risk by regularly conducting refresher training courses.

“We conduct policy and procedure refreshers among our EHSS teams to enhance our disaster preparedness. We revisit our strategy, which are aligned with guidelines set by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) policies, on what to do before, during, and after hazardous events,” said PCPPI Sr. Manager for Safety and Security Dindo C. Garcia.

“We also conduct monthly performance monitoring to see if our teams across the country are consistently aligned with the regulatory standards and to assess the areas that merit improvement,” he added.

PCPPI is also committed to building on stronger relationships with local government units (LGU) to help enable and support communities in times of natural hazard events.

“Our employees are at the heart of our operations. It is our responsibility to ensure we not only empower our teams and partners, but also our customers and the communities where we operate. We recognize our responsibility to prepare and help them in times of emergencies and calamities towards quick recovery with minimal disruption to their activities,” Garcia added.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of well-known beverage brands in the Philippines, such as Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Milkis, and Chum Churum Soonhari. More information about the organization is available via www.pepsiphilippines.com.





Universal Robina Corp.’s (URC) segment-leading products are proving to be consistent favorites among Filipinos, as it once again ranked high among consumers’ most chosen FMCG brands.


Great Taste coffee was ranked as the fourth most chosen beverage brand in the Philippines and ninth among fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Kantar’s Brand Footprint study for 2022.

The brand was also the fourth most chosen in 2021, but its FMCG ranking improved from 15th in 2021.

The study by influential consulting firm Kantar Group, uses a metric called a “consumer reach point” (CRP), which measures a brand’s strength based on how many shoppers are buying the brand and how often.

Great Taste chalked up 424 million CRPs in 2023 from 283 million in 2022. It was purchased by 75.8 percent of all shoppers and chosen 20 times a year.



The brand also continues to expand its line-up, recently adding the new GT Supreme.

Two other URC products made it to the list of the Philippines’ top 20 food brands.

Piattos was 7th, with 183 million CRPs, the third year in a row that it made it to the list. Nissin, a new entrant, landed in 19th, with 74 million CRPs.

“Piattos continues to grow as it’s able to reach more shoppers, winning 1.2 million more homes in the past year, especially via sari-sari stores where it recruits more than 80 percent of its buyers,” said Pearl Benjamin, Senior Account Manager for Kantar Worldpanel.

URC’s C2 ready-to-drink tea rose in the ranking in the beverage category from 19th in 2022 to 16th in 2023,

"This study underscores the sustained quality, cost-effectiveness and lasting allure of our brands for consumers," said Mian David, URC’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Delighting people with good food choices has always been our foremost priority.”


She added that the results of the study “demonstrate the resilience and adaptability of our brands”.


URC produces these iconic brands plus others like Maxx candy and Cream-O cookies, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. One of the country’s largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC also has significant, and growing, presence in ASEAN. Its leading regional brands include Fun-O, Tivoli and Lexus.



Founded in 1992, Kantar spans some 15,300 brands globally in 43 countries. It is the acknowledged global expert in shoppers’ behavior.



URC’s Great Taste has consistently ranked among the most chosen brands by Filipinos, according to Kantar’s Brand Footprint study.



The Cebu-based indie quartet delivers a sonically arresting mix of synth pop anthems, electronic rock jams, ambient soundscapes, and heartfelt tunes





Cebu-based indie quartet Coloura has finally released their highly anticipated sophomore EP, Love and Influence under Melt Records.

The 5-track release shapes up to be an absolute musical revelation—thanks to its shimmering hooks, undeniably catchy choruses, and infectious arrangements that take you back to the colorful era of ‘80s pop and 2000s electro-pop/rock.

The band explains in a collective statement, “Our music has been heavily inspired by pop, rock, and electronic music, but for this EP, we kind of just went along with whatever was comfortable and fun for us. We are really excited to hear people’s thoughts when they hear this EP.”

The EP, which showcases Coloura's versatility and boundless creativity, is a testament to the band's commitment to their craft. Each track tells a unique story and offers a distinct musical experience. With Jake Russell Relacion leading the charge, the band members have poured their hearts and souls into this project.

 

According to the band, the EP covers themes encompassing the romantic spectrum, or dissolution of its stages, however listeners would want to call it: mutual love, obsession, self-love, and acceptance. Jake penned most of the tracks in the mini-album, except for the hook/chorus of the lead single “Ecstasy,” which Rob (bassist) wrote.

To usher in the new album, they recently released their latest single, "Ecstasy," which explores the intense and almost trance-like emotions that one experiences when infatuated with someone. Jake Relacion, the band's vocalist and guitarist, shares his inspiration behind the song: "I was trying to reminisce about the feeling of being overly in love with someone."

 

With its infectious melodies and catchy rhythms, "Ecstasy" promises to have you grooving along from the very first note.

Coloura's music can be described as a delightful mix of pop, rock, and electronic music, with various nuances influenced by each band member's unique musical backgrounds. They released their first song "Losing My Mind” in 2019, echoing nuances from The 1975’s post-punk attitude and the sonically driven sounds of new wave and post-grunge. The release garnered attention in Cebu and beyond, leading to some highlighted music events along with the best bands today, such as Mandaue Nights, Thinking Chair, and many more.

In 2022, the genre-bending act released their debut EP, In Between, featuring the songs “Drive and Meet You,” First Time,” “Let This Go,” and more.

Coloura’s 5-track EP, Love and Influence is out now on all digital/streaming platforms worldwide via Melt Records.




Manila, Phillippines, November 24, 2023 – Looking for a perfect gift this Holiday Season? HONOR got this! Enjoy up to Php 1,000 discount on select HONOR gadgets with FREE Gift Box worth Php 2,499 when you buy starting now until December 31, 2023 in any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop!





“We are once again treating HONOR fans with our Amazing Holideals promo until the end of December. You don’t need to look further because we got exciting freebies that comes with every purchase of HONOR gadget,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.





Timeless Holiday Gifts with HONOR


The Holiday Season is always a time when families and friends gather to reconnect, share milestones, and make up for the time they’ve spent apart throughout the entire year. With this, the best year-end gift HONOR has to offer is HONOR X8A, also referred to as the DSLR smartphone to commemorate gatherings and holiday celebrations. It boasts an ultra-clear 100MP lens backed up by 8GB + 128GB storage, ensuring the quality of photos made affordable at an exclusive discounted price of Php 9,990, inclusive of a FREE HONOR Gift Box valued at Php 2,499.



During holidays, it can also trigger some vacation blues especially for overseas workers or loved ones who don’t have the privilege to be with their families. Hence, for an exclusive Php 500 discount plus FREE HONOR Gift Box, HONOR X5 Plus offers a solution by bridging the distance with its powerful 5200mAh battery life equivalent to 35 hours of calls and 17.8 hours of online video playback. For only Php 5,940, distance means so little with HONOR X5 Plus.





Gifts Galore with HONOR


Exciting FREE Gift Boxes worth Php 2,499 also await fans of other HONOR smartphone units including HONOR Magic5 Pro for Php 59,990, HONOR 70 for Php 26,990, HONOR 90 5G for Php 24,990, HONOR X9A 5G for Php 16,990, HONOR 90 Lite 5G for Php 12,990, and HONOR X7A for Php 7,990. Such items will be the perfect gift for any age paired with the FREE Gift Boxes suitable for each user’s needs and favorite specs.





The early bird catches a complimentary gift this upcoming Holidays! Avail yourself of these amazing holideals on Shopee: bit.ly/ShopeeHONORHolideals, Lazada: bit.ly/LazadaHONORHolideals, and TikTok Shop: bit.ly/TikTokHONORHolideals.





For more exciting updates and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

 



Quezon City, Philippines – November 24, 2023 – Alpas Pinas, a non-stock, non-profit organization that leads in advocating the use of clean, cheap, yet reliable energy solutions, champions the exploration of nuclear power as a cornerstone for economic resurgence amid the Philippines' looming energy crisis.


Last Wednesday, November 15, the Philippine House Bill No. 9293 aimed at establishing an independent nuclear regulator, the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM) was passed on second reading after extensive plenary deliberations at the House of Representatives. This bill was spearheaded by Congressman Mark Cojuangco, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative and Chairman of the House Special Committee on Nuclear Energy, along with 213 co-authors. 


For Alpas Pinas Lead Convenor Gayle Certeza, this scenario highlights even more the importance of exploring the use of nuclear energy, which can serve more than just a power source--it can be a catalyst for economic rejuvenation. 


“Nuclear energy’s reliability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness position it as a crucial element in addressing our energy deficit while propelling economic growth,” Certeza said during a recent Pandesal Forum, a unique civic project held in Kamuning Bakery CafĂ© in Quezon City, which sheds light on issues of national concern. 

Certeza added that nuclear energy offers a cleaner alternative, producing no greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with the nation's environmental commitments. Over the course of its life cycle, nuclear produces the same amount of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions per unit of electricity as wind, and one-third emissions per unit of electricity when compared to solar. This aspect can help position the Philippines at the forefront of global efforts to combat climate change. 


Nuclear energy also distinguishes itself with its affordability and reliability. Once operational, nuclear power plants provide a consistent and cost-effective source of electricity, giving businesses a competitive edge and bolstering investor confidence. Nuclear will make electric affordable to more Filipino families. It will lower their electric bills giving them extra money for other necessities.


Congressman Cojuangco echoed this sentiment, stating, “The economic impact of affordable and dependable energy cannot be overstated. Reduced operational costs for businesses and the stability it offers to investors significantly contribute to economic growth.”


Cojuangco further noted that the integration of nuclear energy into the country's energy portfolio promises not only power but also employment opportunities. The construction and maintenance of nuclear plants demands a skilled workforce, fostering employment and skill development across sectors.


With the nation's aim for energy self-sufficiency, the inclusion of nuclear power emerges as a strategic move. It not only addresses the impending energy crisis but also lays the foundation for sustainable economic development.


“Alpas Pinas stands firm in its advocacy for the integration of nuclear energy into the Philippines' energy mix to drive economic growth. Its cleanliness, affordability, and reliability not only address the impending energy crisis but also pave the way for sustainable progress and steady economic growth, marking the Philippines as a frontrunner in clean energy innovation,” Certeza concluded.







Ben&Ben expresses the loneliness that comes in waves after being apart from your loved one for so long.

On their new single, “Autumn,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment, the nine-piece collective copes with the emotional complications that hit home, resulting in a song about “the distance that people often unintentionally create with their other half, because of the changes that life throws at us.”



According to the Paninidigan Kita hitmakers, the introspective track was written in Canada last year, right smack in the middle of their North American tour. The band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Paolo Benjamin, felt an aching yearning to be with his significant other, as the long distance proved to be very challenging for both of them.



“A few months later, in early 2023, brother Miguel Benjamin completed the lyrics, also adding a bridge about being in different seasons, which really completed the message of the song,” the folk-pop collective adds. “It speaks about themes of loneliness, yearning, and ultimately, hoping against hope that a new season will come.”



Marking a new chapter for the band, “Autumn” embraces a new direction that reveals subtle details with each listen. Blending rich, acoustic arrangements with lush textures and otherworldly touches, the emotional ballad is meticulously crafted to capture the yearning that comes with being in a long-distance relationship with your other half.



The award-winning band explains in a collective statement, “Autumn is a song where we showcase how we’ve evolved and matured as a band. Writing-wise, we felt that the perspective was a more realistic and mature take on the subject. Arrangement and production-wise, we discovered a lot of new ways to express sounds that achieve the emotion we were going for.”



The song is included in a three-part release that Ben&Ben hopes to share in the coming weeks. Aside from “Autumn,” the acclaimed Filipino act will also be dropping the full-band version of their new track “Courage” in the following week, as well as a special collaboration with another artist, due December 8, 2023.



Ben&Ben’s “Autumn” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.



Get your bands together and get ready for a musical adventure with the ultimate harmony in enchanted melodies. Witness a symphony of rhythm, laughter, and friendship as you go on a journey with Poppy (voiced by Anna Kendrick), Branch (voiced by Justin Timberlake), and the phenomenal comeback of NSYNC after 20 years, releasing their latest song Better Place.


Trolls Band Together is still showing at SM Cinemas nationwide so go ahead and BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!



: https://bit.ly/TrollsBandTogetherAtSMCinema
: SM Cinema app​
: SM Cinema ticket booths
#TrollsBandTogether
#TrollsBandTogetherAtSMCinema
#SMCinema

Thursday, November 23, 2023




There’s a big and wonderful world out there waiting to be unlocked. When it comes to pursuing our passions and happiness, whether that’s pursuing a career, the loving responsibility of caring for our loved ones, maintaining self-care, or discovering life’s wonders, having healthy energy is highly essential. But sometimes, getting stuck in a daily routine that drains us of that energy makes us miss out on the more vibrant aspects of our lives.



How much energy you possess can build the world you envision it to be. As a leading vitamin brand in the Philippines, Enervon recognizes how your healthy energy can shape both your world and everything that surrounds you, enabling you to live the life you want to live.




When you have healthy energy, your world becomes bigger – you can do more, experience more, learn more, and enjoy more. Healthy energy means activating your physical, mental, and social energies and when you do, your world becomes bigger and full of possibilities. You can finally be on your feet, take that leap, and be better equipped with the right energy to unlock your world.





Embark on your journey of self-discovery and well-being, and unlock healthy energy with Enervon Multivitamins. It contains Vitamin B for more energy by optimizing the conversion of food into energy that your body can use and coupled with Vitamin C for a stronger immune system, to fight infection and protect against illness.



As you embark on your journey to unlock healthy energy, Enervon is adding a special touch to your experience. Enervon enhances the experience by offering the freedom to personalize bottles for you and your loved ones. With the “Personalize Your Enervon” booth, people can discover ongoing inspiration to maintain their daily Enervon regimen. This consistent intake strengthens their healthy energy, allowing them to lead a life to the fullest.


“Our vision is for Filipinos to see Enervon as their partner in unlocking a world filled with endless possibilities. We’re here to help people discover what a world filled with healthy energy feels like – it’s not just about enabling Filipinos to get through the day, but to energize their overall well-being, so they can live the life they not just need, but truly aspire to live. Through the activities we’ve organized, our main goal is to empower Filipinos to consistently sustain their overall energy, encompassing physical, social, and mental well-being.” Kat Carag, Product Manager of Enervon® Philippines.

With Enervon, siguradong ganado ka sa buhay. Be ready to #UnlockYourWorld and enjoy the best that life has to offer. Enervon Multivitamins is available on the Unilab Shop at www.shop.unilab.com.ph













Your wishes are about to come true at SM Cinema as Asha (voiced by the Academy Award and Golden Globe Award – winning actress Ariana DeBose) and her friends Valentino and Star, take you on an enthralling musical journey to the magical kingdom of Rosas on the much- awaited Disney film Wish. Unveil the magic this November 22 at SM Cinemas nationwide as you step into a magical realm like no other.
 






BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

: https://bit.ly/WishAtSMCinema

: SM Cinema app

: SM Cinema ticket booths

#Wish

#WishAtSMCinema

#SMCinema



Celebrate Christmas traditions and create new memories in this vintage red themed living room where you can settle in and lounge around with your family and friends. Styled for entertaining while at the same time giving off a warm, cozy, and homey feel.




Make every celebration, even the simplest of get-togethers, more meaningful and festive this holiday with Our Home.




At Our Home, the celebration is given a stylish look with furniture and furnishings, accents, and accessories that are designed for entertaining while at the same time giving off a warm, cozy, and homey feel.




Red is always a color associated with Christmas, and at Our Home, Christmas and the color red, when combined, spell a sophisticated yet subtle mix on how to celebrate the season in style. Be inspired by Our Home’s vintage red theme this holiday. Vintage pieces from the Art Deco Period as well as from the Mid-Century Styles are given a current and trendy application when paired with contemporary pieces that evoke a sense of nostalgia while at the same time allude to a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the home.







Textures and colors vary; plush and tactile fabrics in pillows and upholstery are paired with the softness and smoothness of leather with marble accents in gray and white, creating a mix that exudes a certain ode to the classic lines of the 50s and 60s but is given an avant-garde treatment.




Christmas dĂ©cor and accoutrements are also in the same palette—in their feel and look. Christmas trees are subtly adorned in white, red, and silver for that ode to the Christmas color, but at the same time, they are styled minimally to pay homage to their vintage inspirations. Even Christmas characters from the vintage era come alive; Santa Claus, Rudolph, and Frosty are all in attendance, lending an old-world charm to an otherwise totally current ambiance.







This Christmas, celebrate the season with a stylish flair yet a subtle hint of vintage only at OUR Home. Be creative in mixing the new and the now with the classic and the chic.




Visit Our Home store at the lower ground of SM City Grand Central for a full Holiday Collection. You can also shop online through www.ourhome.ph. Shop for style the way you want with your personal shopper right in the comfort of your home with Call to Deliver 0917-831-5260.











BGC, Taguig, Philippines - November 23, 2023 — Singapore-based Web3 gaming platform Aura has partnered with Yield Guild Games (YGG), the world’s largest decentralized gaming guild network, to host multiple Web3 gaming tournaments with a total prize pool of $20,000 or P1.1 million during the YGG Web3 Games Summit in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.


Aura will feature popular Web3 games like Zed Run. The competition will be held on its Wager platform, which allows players to participate in or create their own Web3 gaming tournaments.



Aura is also running the Aura Dollar Deals, a listing campaign where Aura will purchase any Zed Run NFTs valued at $1, with a cap set at 500 NFTs.




In addition to the tournaments, Aura will have an interactive booth that serves as a hub for attendees to experience the innovative features of the Aura NFT marketplace, explore over 250 games onboard, engage with Aura’s experts, and gain insights into the dynamic world of Web3 gaming.




“As the platinum sponsor, we’re committed to making the YGG Web3 Games Summit an exciting experience. Our focus on hosting Web3 gaming tournaments is a reflection of our commitment to fostering competition, skill development, and spreading Web3 gaming knowledge within the community. The total prize pool is not just an incentive; it's a recognition of the talent in the Web3 gaming space,” said Aura Founder Abin Arjun.



The summit, which will run until November 25, brings together a diverse group of participants, including gamers, investors, protocols, exchanges, and game developers. It features a game jam hackathon, a conference, a game expo, and esports tournaments, offering a comprehensive exploration of the future of Web3 gaming.


Developed on the Polygon blockchain, Aura stands as a cutting-edge gaming ecosystem that provides an array of tools to enhance the gaming experience for users of varying skill levels. Yield Guild Games is renowned as the largest decentralized network of gaming guilds, emphasizing blockchain games and Web3 education.

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