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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.

For decades, Jack Daniel’s Philippines has supported the growth of the local indie music community and the next generation of future music greats through its music program. Now, everything is set for its most anticipated comeback.

The No. 1 US whiskey brand (IWSR, 2024) returns with Jack Daniel’s On Stage 2024 (JDOS) in the Philippines, championing the movers and shakers of the Philippine independent music scene by providing an avenue for bands to showcase their artistry and musicality. Through the series of live performances and media opportunities, the program paves the way for them to step onto a much bigger stage and much wider audience. 

“Music has always been part of Jack Daniel’s DNA,” shares Gabriel Fajardo, the Brand Manager of Jack Daniel’s Emerging Asia. “It is through music that the brand has solidified its place in culture and how many people have connected with Jack over the years.”

Built on the values of promoting community-building and inclusivity through live music, JDOS empowers musicians to express their genuine selves through their performances. Through this, Jack Daniel’s and its partners inspire these aspiring artists to elevate their craft and propel them further into a professional career in the music industry—be it here or abroad.

This year, JDOS partners with emerging and recurring production partners who have earned a reputation for strengthening indie music communities through their uncompromising curation and distinct voice. The partners invaluable experience and expertise in harnessing the untapped potential of artists in live performances, adds credibility to the JDOS program. The production groups that were heavily involved in creating a lineup that cuts across all musical tastes include GNN (Gabi Na Naman Productions), Locked Down Entertainment, Doc Def Productions, SYQL, The Flying Lugaw, Otelik Presents, and Funky Beat Entertainment.

JDOS will showcase the diversity and richness of the local music scene with live event stages in key outlets in Metro Manila. The production partners, together with Jack Daniel’s, will organize music events in various venues featuring this year’s amazing roster of independent artists.

As Gabe puts it, “We want to give the up-and-coming artists the avenue to feel the adrenaline of the live stages, of putting themselves out there for everyone to listen and watch. As we’ve said, we want their stories to be heard by people and to give them the opportunity to share their music boldly to the world through Jack Daniel’s On Stage.”

Check out the schedule of JDOS Playlist LIVE:

Oct 18 – Locked Down Entertainment

Nov 9 – Funkybeat Entertainment

Nov 16 – Doc Def Productions

Nov 23 – The Flying Lugaw

Nov 29 – GNN

Dec 6 – Otelik presents

Dec 7 – SYQL

Jack Up The Volume Promo

Jack Daniel’s On Stage is only one part of Jack Daniel’s music campaign this year. Alongside JDOS, we also have the Jack Up The Volume National Consumer Promotion, which gives people the chance to experience music on an entirely new level. Two grand prize winners will be flown to one of the biggest music festivals in Japan. While others will get a chance to win other rockin’ prizes like laptops, tablets, premium headphones, electric guitars, and vinyl players. To top it off, there will be winners of bottles from the Jack Daniel’s Family of brands too!

For more information, check out Jack Daniel’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

JDOS 2024 is presented by Jack Daniel’s Philippines, with launch venue partner Hard Rock Cafe Manila, in partnership with BILLBOARD PH (official music media partner) and JB Music (official backline partner).

Manila, Philippines — Awooo! Calling all Wolfies of Bacolod! Big Bad Wolf is packing up and leaving town in a few days, so run now and get ready for one last feast at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod until September 29, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Don’t miss the chance to fill up on amazing finds and great deals!

Still on our spread are unbelievable discounts and special promos that you just can’t pass up! Over two million titles are still at 95% off, and attendees who will participate in Wolfie’s Challenge of the Day get a chance to win a P500 Book Voucher. What’s more is that Metrobank credit cardholders can take advantage of a 3-month 0% installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000, as well as a free 1-pc Chicken McDo meal for purchases of the same minimum amount. Returning Wolfies can still get a 5% discount on purchases when they bring their old Big Bad Wolf tote bag from last year. Plus, there’s a chance to win over P50,000 worth of furnishings from Swedish furnishing brand IKEA.

If you think that’s all, you’re wrong! Big Bad Wolf also has a special treat that is  exclusively for students and teachers! Registered Big Bad Wolf members who are part of the academe get 5% off on English books when they wear their uniform or present their school ID at the cashier. No minimum spend needed. Details of the promo will be released on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages, so keep an eye out! 

Adding to the excitement are limited edition tote bags that you can get only until the last day of the Bacolod book sale, September 29. Grab one for yourself, bring along a friend, and check out the other awesome merch too!   

Are you searching for something that will renew your zest for life? Perhaps a guide to finding “the one”? Or maybe a storybook that will take the young ones on an incredible adventure? All these and more are treasures waiting for you. But wait! While you’re at it, you can share your well-loved treasures with someone else too. Donate a book or two at the Book Sale! Books will be donated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for a farther reach to different communities. 

In the spirit of giving, let’s not forget that it’s “-ber” season already and the holidays are fast approaching! Kick off your holiday gift shopping at the Big Bad Wolf Bacolod Book Sale! With amazing deals and a wide selection, you’re sure to bring home a perfect book for you.   

No, we’re not crying “wolf” with our deals and discounts, but you’re a Wolfie who might just cry if you miss the last few days of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. Hurry now because the books and the goods are hot and ready for the taking. Explore genres, hunt down the titles on your wishlist, and make the most out of our deals before they’re all gobbled up!

What are you waiting for? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod, happening until September 29. Doors open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Gather your pack and catch the Big Bad Wolf before it goes! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)