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As part of the continuing celebration of its 50^th Anniversary, Ayala Museum will hold its first-ever whole-day arts and music festival, AMplify, this coming October 19, 2024. Headlined by Asia’s Soul Supreme KZ Tandingan, AMplify will be held in partnership with the premier entertainment and talent management agency Cornerstone Entertainment.

Aside from KZ, the music festival will also be bannered by other Cornerstone artists such as Zephanie, Markki Stroemm, and Agsunta. Ayala Museum’s frequent concert collaborator Manila Symphony Orchestra joins the roster of featured artists, as well as Viva Voce Voice Lab, classical guitarist Aaron Rafael Aguila III, ABECADARIO guitar quartet, harpist Vien Ignacio. DJ Arthur Tan from After the Noon Records will also be joining in the celebration.

“On our 50^th anniversary, we are presenting AMplify, the next big step in our music program. AMplify will celebrate the Filipino voice by marrying our fascinating collections and exhibitions with music and performance from some of the most popular and talented Filipino music acts. And in this endeavor, we have found the perfect partner in Cornerstone Entertainment,” said Mariles Gustilo, senior director for Arts and Culture of Ayala Foundation (AFI) at the launch of AFI and Cornerstone’s partnership launch event.

Ayala Museum is managed by AFI under its Arts and Culture Division.

Aside from musical performances, guests can also access all of the museum exhibitions throughout the day, attend various art activities such as live sketching with Urban Sketchers, and a shadow play performance by Mahiwaga St. Players, and listen to a lecture on Filipino music by the Filipinas Heritage Library. A whole day event, its activities will be held in all the venues inside Ayala Museum, with the banner performances to be held in the evening in the expanded lobby with a view of the Greenbelt Garden.

Tickets are at: P2,250 for the Festival Pass, which includes access to all the musical performances and art activities during the day and the headline performances during the evening; P1,900 for the Night Pass, which includes access to the headline performances during the evening; and P850 for the Day Pass, which includes access to all the musical performances and art activities during the day. There’s also a Barkada Bundle of three (3) Festival Passes for P6,000.

Visit ayalamuseum.org/amplify to buy tickets and for more information.

[Manila, Philippines] — EastWest, one of the country’s most consumer-focused and fastest-growing universal banks, proudly introduced elite gymnast and two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo as its newest brand ambassador during an exclusive launch event held in Makati. The event celebrated Carlos Yulo’s historic athletic achievements and his inspiring financial journey as an EastWest client, making him the perfect embodiment of the Bank’s mission of nurturing dreams by championing sensible financial management for over thirty years.

With his exceptional rise in the field, Yulo has made a significant mark on the global stage, representing the Philippines worldwide. His dedication to his art and commitment to excellence align perfectly with EastWest’s values of pushing boundaries and striving for greatness. Just as Carlos Yulo excels as a world-class athlete, EastWest offers world-class services, always going further to empower Filipinos with the financial tools and guidance they need to achieve their dreams.

Yulo shared, “Itong partnership really started before ko po nakuha ang gold medals ko sa Olympics.  Talagang tinulungan ako ng EastWest from the start na maayos yung financial goals ko. Madami akong natutunan sa kanila, nag simula lang ako ng simpleng deposit ngayon meron na akong mga investments na nakatulong talaga sa plans ko. Pareho kami ng mindset ng EastWest, always pushing ourselves to improve. Kaya this partnership comes in so natural sa kin, pareho kaming may relentless drive na magtuloy tuloy hanggang makamit namin ang dreams namin.”

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

The event highlighted the distinct connection between Yulo and EastWest. From simply being a customer, he is now the face of the brand. His discipline, perseverance, and focus on the mastery of his craft, evidenced by his rigorous training, is mirrored by the Bank — persistently supporting clients’ financial journeys to ensure that they can confidently pursue their own goals.

EastWest SEVP and Head of Financial Markets and Wealth Management, Rafael S. Algarra Jr., expressed the significance of the partnership, stating, “Carlos Yulo represents the dedication and passion that EastWest stands for. His journey from having raw potential to being a world champion reflects the same path we aim to provide for our clients—guiding them toward financial success, whether through our Priority services, consumer loans, or investment management. We believe this partnership exemplifies our service commitment—always pushing further for our clients so they can achieve their goals.”

Carlos Yulo’s Inspiring Financial Journey

Yulo’s partnership with the Bank also highlights his personal journey of financial growth and empowerment. He started with basic banking products to save and pay for expenses while training and competing.  As his financial capacity grew, he relied on the help of a dedicated EastWest Priority Relationship Manager to give him financial advice. With guidance, Yulo transitioned into investments, ensuring that his earnings were wisely managed, while he focused on training. Yulo shared, “Si EastWest po talaga has been so helpful in my journey—not just as an athlete, but also in managing my finances. Tinulungan po nila ako maging smart sa financial decisions ko and magkaroon ng solid financial plan and dahil dito, naka focus ako sa training and competitions ko. Nung nagsimula akong kumita, hindi ko talaga alam kung paano i-manage ng maayos ang pera ko. I had deposit accounts and a credit card with EastWest. Pero na-realize ko na kailangan ko ng mas malalim na understanding para mapalago yung pinaghirapan ko. Buti na lang, EastWest Priority assigned me a relationship manager who really guided me. Siya ang nagturo sa akin about investments and how I can grow my savings para I’m financially prepared.”

EastWest: Celebrating 30 Years of Financial Excellence

As EastWest celebrates its 30th anniversary, their partnership with the Olympian marks another milestone. For three decades, EastWest has consistently provided its clients with personalized services that guide them through every stage of their financial journey, and clients like Yulo are proof of their commitment. While embracing innovation and adapting to the evolving needs of their clients, EastWest ensures that they never lose the human touch, balancing cutting-edge solutions with the warmth and care that have always defined their approach.

EastWest CEO Jerry Ngo shares, “Carlos Yulo embodies resilience, focus, and the pursuit of excellence—values EastWest has upheld for the last 30 years. As we continue to innovate and grow, we proudly welcome Carlos as a partner who not only stands for athletic success but also a commitment to smart financial growth. Together, we aim to inspire Filipinos to push their boundaries and achieve their financial dreams with EastWest by their side.”

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), a joint venture between Sun Life Philippines and the Yuchengco Group of Companies, recently sealed a strategic partnership with PTC Insurance Inc. (PTC Insures), a member of the Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc. (PTCI) Group, to offer affordable life insurance solutions exclusively for Global Maritime Professionals (GMPs).

This strategic partnership between PTC Insures and Sun Life Grepa underscores a shared commitment to providing customized, affordable, and accessible life insurance solutions that address the unique needs of maritime professionals, GMPs will have access to Sun Life Grepa’s extensive range of life and health insurance products, delivered through PTC Insures’ network.

“We are grateful to PTC Insures for placing their trust in us,” Sun Life Grepa President Richard S. Lim said. “This partnership marks an exciting milestone for all of us as we work towards greater financial inclusion. Together, we are setting a new standard in supporting the maritime community and I hope we empower them with the financial security they deserve.”

“Our global maritime professionals deserve the best protection, both for their families and themselves. This partnership with Sun Life Grepa will ensure that they receive top-notch insurance services that are specifically designed for their needs,” said PTC Insures President Jaime Miguel G. de Sequera.

Established in 1979, PTCI is a crew management and diversified maritime services company dedicated to providing high-quality services and innovative solutions to the global maritime industry.

Visit www.ptcinsures.com.ph today!

Sun Life’s Corporate Secretary, Atty. Anna Katrina Kabigting-Ibero (middle), receives the Two Golden Arrow Award for Sun Life Philippines

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. has once again been honored by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) with the prestigious Two Golden Arrow Award for its unwavering commitment to good corporate governance.

The Golden Arrow Recognition ceremony was held recently at Manila Marriott Hotel, and Sun Life’s Corporate Secretary, Atty. Anna Katrina Kabigting-Ibero, personally received the award.

This award is bestowed upon insurance companies and publicly listed entities that have achieved a score of at least 80 points in the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS). The ACGS evaluates companies based on their facilitation of shareholders’ rights and equitable treatment, their relationship with various stakeholders, and their commitment to transparency and accountability through timely disclosure of material information. Additionally, it assesses how the board strategically guides the company, monitors management, and ensures accountability to both the company and its shareholders.

This marks the sixth consecutive year that Sun Life has received such recognition, underscoring its dedication to integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head, Benedict Sison, expressed gratitude to the ICD for the accolade and reaffirmed the company’s pledge to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance. “With our Clients’ trust being the most important element of our business, setting high standards for corporate governance is non-negotiable. This recognition affirms the commitment of our advisors and employees to uphold Sun Life’s values in everything they do,” Sison stated. “We are grateful to ICD for this honor, and we promise to always champion its essence.”

Bioessence marked its 30^th anniversary with a grand celebration that honored the brand’s journey and commitment to “Caring Beyond Beauty.”

The milestone event, which championed Bioessence’s contribution in providing world-class beauty and wellness services, took place at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Quezon City on September 26, 2024.

Thousands of guests have enjoyed an evening of entertainment, surprises, and a retrospective of Bioessence’s 30 years of existence. Founded in 1994, Bioessence has grown from a small 3-bed beauty clinic chain into a renowned wellness brand with multiple branches located in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The brand’s Pearl anniversary celebration brought together key opinion leaders, stakeholders, loyal customers, and influential figures who have contributed to Bioessence’s success over the past three decades. It also welcomed VIPs, clients, and media colleagues for a vibrant night of beauty and wellness.

In addition to socializing and networking among beauty and wellness enthusiasts, the brand also mounted several exciting activities for attendees, promising a night that truly redefines care.

The Philippines’ Bossa Nova singer Sitti and The Crooner Richard Poon serenaded the crowd and made the night extra special with their delightful mix of hits and covers. Other performers include Aliw Award winner MOBB, along with up-and-coming singers Bugs and Jarlo Base.

Apart from the live music performances, the anniversary also put a spotlight on the evolution of Bioessence, while revealing new innovations in services and products in partnership with OxygenCeuticals, an oxygen-based skincare brand from South Korea. One of the other most anticipated parts of the event was the unveiling of the company’s new brand ambassador: Jennica Garcia, who graced the audience with her beauty and simplicity.

With a goal of expanding its portfolio of services, Bioessence also introduced a new machine called Harmony, complementing its existing advanced non-invasive treatments Exilis and Plasma, showcasing that Bioessence has the complete solution for beautiful skin and body. Guests also had the opportunity to see these devices in action at a dummy clinic supervised by Bioessence’s expert trainers and consultants.

Guests were also treated to a blend of nostalgia and a forward-thinking vision as Bioessence outlined its plans for the future. As part of the festivities, attendees had the opportunity to participate in exclusive giveaways and experience firsthand the latest treatments and products that Bioessence has to offer.

The nine-track release unravels openness with riveting sincerity

Josh Cullen opens up about his old wounds and internal struggles on his debut solo album, Lost & Found—released under Sony Music Entertainment today.

The nine-track release revels in the space of openness and pain, not afraid to tackle themes that are often considered a sign of weakness. Here, the SB19 leader shares an unadulterated version of himself as he deals with past traumas in life, recovers from its ruins to find light in an often cruel world, and takes control of his creative agency by telling an inspiring story of resilience and hope.

The acclaimed P-Pop singer-songwriter explains, “This album explores themes of pain and suffering, redemption, and the strength of human resilience, inspired by my inner truth. In Lost and Found, I wrote about the pain that never truly goes away, the trauma that lingers long after we think our wounds have healed, and discovering strength within ourselves.”

Lost & Found, taken as a listening experience, shows Josh Cullen’s songwriting strengths in its unfiltered sense. He doesn’t mince words about the pressures and fakery of the industry, and even in exploring his recollections of childhood, he surmounts the dreadful experience of having to go through the bins all over again, with nothing but a pen as armor. Josh treats vulnerability as a form of refuge: it stings and lingers, but its effect only fuels his spirit as a storyteller.

He points out, “I know what it means to be lost and found. I’ve experienced being lost throughout my life, sometimes trapped between trying to process all these intense emotions while desperately hoping to be found. I hope to connect with my fans and listeners who have been through the same journey or are going through the same.”

Sonically speaking, Lost & Found marks a vital vibe shift from the rap/urban-leanings of his pre-album era to a more amorphous musical strain that blends emo, pop-punk, and alt-rock sensibilities with producer-driven hip-hop and R&B influences. Moving towards genre-defiant territory, Josh’s unmistakable chameleonic presence, coupled with his affinity for emotionally captivating lyrics and inescapable hooks, makes Lost & Found a more intriguing but enjoyable effort.

From the hard-hitting, guitar-rock swells of “1999,” where he navigates the harsh realities of life, to the suave electro-pop strums of “See Me,” where he shares the beautiful, glowing feeling of finding happiness in someone else’s love and presence, Lost & Found shimmers with tension and pull, and surprisingly rolls with effortless transition from one sound to another. Other standouts include the sensual and moody “Lights Out,” which features Mo of P-Pop group Alamat, the ceiling-punching anthem “No Control,” and the acoustic ditty “Honest.”

Check out the Lost & Found track list below:

1. 1999

2. See Me

3. Silent Cries

4. Honest

5. No Control (ft. (e)motion engine)

6. Lights Out (ft. Alamat Mo)

7. Sumaya

8. Silent Cries (Instrumental)

9. No Control (Instrumental)

Josh Cullen’s new album, Lost & Found is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Manila, Philippines — HUAWEI has celebrated the grand re-opening of the HUAWEI Authorized Experience Store at SM North EDSA last September 28, offering tech enthusiasts and consumers a space to explore the brand’s latest innovations. The grand opening ceremony brought together HUAWEI executives, industry leaders, and tech elites to mark a major milestone in HUAWEI’s continued growth in the Southeast Asian market.

Enhanced Experience at New HUAWEI SM North EDSA Store 

The new HUAWEI Authorized Experience Store at SM North Edsa offers more than just a place to purchase the latest HUAWEI devices; it is also an immersive space where technology meets lifestyle. Combining sleek, minimalist design with warm, inviting interiors, the store is a harmonious blend of modernity and comfort. Soft wood accents, bright lighting, and metal finishes work together to create an elegant atmosphere, underscoring HUAWEI’s dedication to quality, aesthetics, and user-centric design.

The Product Display Area at the new store features a spacious, open layout that encourages interaction, Enlarged display tables ensure that visitors can easily browse the full range of products, from smartphones to tablets and wearables, while enjoying a relaxed, engaging experience. Visitors are invited to touch, try, and explore every product, discovering firsthand the performance, design, and innovative technology that sets HUAWEI apart. 

The new store also features a Discover HUAWEI Area, a unique community hub designed for hands-on learning and engagement. The space is set to host interactive workshops, on everything from device operation, photography art, and innovative design. Equipped with a large, high-definition LED screen, the area offers an enhanced learning experience, making complex ideas accessible through visible demonstrations. HUAWEI is looking to invite industry experts to host exclusive learning sessions, utilizing the Discovery HUAWEI Area to foster a collaborative, innovative community spirit.

HUAWEI’s commitment to customer care is demonstrated by the available Service Area in the SM North EDSA store. At the designated area, consumers can access a comprehensive suite of after-sales services. From quick data migration to expert guidance on new devices, the new store offers full customer support for every step of consumers’ HUAWEI journey. Additionally, the HUAWEI SM North EDSA Experience Store will also offer services beyond technical support by creating a comfortable experience for customers with services such as the “Four Seasons Care,” wherein HUAWEI stores will start providing customers free water and refreshments along with free charging services as part of its important service.

Understanding the importance of staying connected, HUAWEI offers customers a quick and reliable solution with the “Instant Charging Service” area. HUAWEI’s fast-charging technology allows customers to recharge their devices in no time. 

Discover the New HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2”

Earlier this month, HUAWEI unveiled its newest tech marvels, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2,” both embodying the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and design. 

The HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series is a next-generation wearable device, featuring an upgraded design with tailored sports capabilities for running, cycling, trail running, free diving, and golf. It also comes with enhanced health and fitness monitoring features, thanks to the HUAWEI TruSense System. With the all-new Emotional Wellbeing Assistant, it delivers a holistic health management experience for watch wearers. The watch series offers intelligent interaction experience, powered by a long-lasting, quick-charging battery. 

Meanwhile, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2” sets a new benchmark in tablet display technology with the world’s best dual OLED PaperMatte Display, offering clear and vibrant visuals with eye-friendly properties. The advanced anti-glare and anti-sparkle technology on the tablet delivers a premium, paper-like viewing experience for users. The tablet pairs well with the HUAWEI Glide Keyboard, a 2-in-1 stylus and keyboard storage/charging slot for seamless use. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2” delivers a powerful, more than PC-level experience, featuring the updated GoPaint App which provides professional-level art tools and supports 8K canvases for artistic creations. 

During the opening event, visitors were able to experience these new products firsthand, guided by HUAWEI’s expert staff. Senior product specialists were on hand to showcase the innovations behind the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series and the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2,” offering insights into their unique features and HUAWEI’s vision for future smart living solutions.

Exclusive Launch Celebration Offerings

Tech experts and industry insiders graced the grand opening event, providing their insights into HUAWEI’s latest technological breakthroughs and possible future innovations. Guests heard from digital content creator and known fitness enthusiast, Marline Capones, on the importance of a fit and healthy lifestyle with a masterclass spotlighting the HUAWEI WATCH GT 5 Series. Artist Rudz followed this up with a masterclass on unleashing creativity through digital art, highlighting the efficiency of digital art creation using the GoPaint app on the HUAWEI MatePad Pro 12.2.”

To celebrate the grand opening of the store, there will be a series of exciting activities and surprise giveaways. Customers can participate in fun check-in activities, where they have a chance to win exclusive, limited-edition commemorative gifts. The SM North EDSA HUAWEI Authorized Experience Store is the first of several stores, including stores at SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Ecoland Davao, SM City Grand Central, Market Market, etc. that will undergo this retail upgrade. 

Explore More Possibilities with the HUAWEI Community

HUAWEI’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant community continues beyond the store opening. The Discover HUAWEI initiative includes a range of workshops and activities, from XMAGE imaging sessions and creative workshops inspired by Natural Painting to fitness-focused running groups, creating opportunities for deeper engagement and connection. These activities are designed to bring people together, blending technology, culture, and community in a unique and enriching way.

To stay updated on upcoming events and the latest product releases, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

KAIA continues to cement their status as one of the most sonically adventurous pop groups in the Philippines with the release of their new single, “Walang Biruan,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

The iridescent, bubblegum-pop track boldly reassures one’s feelings without fear of judgment, channeling the playful side of young love. As KAIA explains it, “The song is about telling someone how much you like them in a sweet and honest way. It has a catchy tune and lighthearted vibe, making it easy to relate to and enjoy.”

Giving listeners a taste of summer with a fun, lightweight take, “Walang Biruan” embraces an effortlessly flawless sound with Y2K pop, Jersey club, and UKG influences. KINDRED’s Luis Montales and Kenneth Amores co-produced and co-wrote the track with the members of KAIA, motivating the Dalawa act to tap into their full potential as songwriters.

According to the five-member group, the initial stages of recording “Walang Biruan” entailed so much spontaneity that it enabled them to take charge of their creative pursuits and get more involved in the process.

“We spent a while on how we can arrange the song and make it more palatable to our audience,” shares KAIA. “Alexa took part in writing the rap verse, and the four of us, Charlotte, Sophia, Charice, and Angela, exchanged ideas on how we can make the song longer and more beautiful.”

The song will be released soon with a music video directed by Jonathan Tal Placido of Toothless. The MV conveys the material’s effervescent vibe while taking a tour of what happens inside a person’s mind during a pivotal moment of reawakening. It’s also shot entirely on an iPhone—a first among the P-Pop music scene.

KAIA reveals, “There are playful scenes showing how your imagination runs wild when you’re nervous, but once you finally confess, it’s like a huge weight is lifted. Suddenly, you feel free, at peace, and everything just feels brighter and more colorful.”

KAIA’s “Walang Biruan” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Gushcloud Philippines talents (from left): JinHo Bae, Angelgrace America, Klea Pineda, Katrice Kierulf, Apple David, Kelly Cruz, and Pattie Paraiso

Gushcloud Philippines announces its new business model and a bolder list of exclusive and non-exclusive talents, content and media that they own and co-produce.

During their recently held Partner’s Appreciation Night, the local unit of Singapore-based Gushcloud International (a global creator and IP management and licensing company powered by AI) revealed that it is now a global creator and IP management company, from just being a talent agency since it started operations in 2016.

Not only does it scout talents and link them to brands, but it also grows them from the early stages of their career until they find their brand and niche in the ever demanding content creation industry.

“We are proud to share the changes and growth that our organization went through in just under a year with the new leadership. We have revamped our business model and signed more talents to show that we’re committed to our vision of creating tomorrow’s positive influence. We thank our talents and partners from brands, agencies, and media for their continued support,” says Ryan Marquez, General Manager of Gushcloud Philippines.

Additionally, Gushcloud also introduced its lineup of almost 50 local talents who are making waves on social media and mainstream channels.

Their exclusive talents from diverse fields include: gaming community personality and aspiring actress Pattie Paraiso; Korean singer/host/actor JinHo Bae; beauty/lifestyle creators Jillian Raine Saberon and Angelgrace America; fitness/lifestyle creator Keona Lozada; sportscaster Apple David; model/online personality Katrice Kierulf; lifestyle creator Denise Heredia; online “Peanut Butter Queen” Kelly Cruz; Japanese “Green Flag Guy” Rio Mizu; resident island girl Alecks Flores; actor/model Will Devaughn; resident KPop fangirls Tasha Mae Urquiola and Kaye Andres; the “Bunny of BGC” Vanessa Lavadia; and host/singer-songwriter Hannah Maxine Cruz.

Marquez also pointed out that Gushcloud’s vast connection with traditional management companies in the country enable them to link brands with practically any celebrity of their choice, via the agency’s brokerage service expertise.

Gushcloud Philippines leaders (from left): Migs Felizardo (Head of Talents), Ryan Marquez (Managing Director), Ross Manicad (Head of Corporate Communications), Darlene Malimas (Head of Global IP and Content), Cha Javier (Social Media Manager), and Max Webb (Head of Sales)

The agency counts non-exclusive talents that include actress/host Camille Prats-Yambao; lifestyle creator Kevin Ty; comedian/in-demand wedding host Eri Neeman; and beauty queen Emmanuelle Vera.

On top of talent bookings and management business, Gushcloud Philippines is also an active owner, co-developer, and producer of exciting IPs (intellectual properties) and multimedia content. As shared by Darlene Malimas, Gushcloud’s Head of Global IP and Content, Gushcloud Philippines will sign as part of the producing team for the movie “Lihim Na Luha” (“Secret Cries”) featuring Jericho Rosales. Currently in development, it is one of the movie projects accepted at QCinema Project Market which connects filmmakers with international partners and offers grants and prizes.

On social media, Gushcloud Philippines is currently boosting content production for its own IPs such as Best of Manila (an events and pop culture directory in the Metro) and MomCenter (online group and community for mothers and parents).

In just under a year with its new leadership, the 10-strong Philippine office has achieved a 243% increase in revenue from January to June 2024 compared to the same period last year. It is now one of Gushcloud’s fastest-growing Southeast Asian markets.

For more information, visit gushcloud.com, facebook.com/BestofManilaPH, @bestofmanila on Instagram, facebook.com/momcenter.ph, or @momcenter.ph on Instagram.