Uncategorized

MANILA, PH – (April 2024) – Sun Life Philippines, the No. 1 life insurance company in the country in terms of premium income, net income, and total assets, is hosting a series of recruitment events for Financial Advisors called the Live Brighter Forum in select cities nationwide.

The series of Live Brighter Forums aims to amplify “The Next Big Gig”, a campaign that invites Millennials and Gen Zs to become a Sun Life Financial Advisor as their next income generating gig. It will kick off at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City on April 27, and continues at the Zuri Hotel in Iloilo City on May 11, SMX Convention Center at Pasay City on May 18, and Laus Group Events Centre in San Fernando, Pampanga on June 15.

Potential candidates joining the event can expect to learn more about how being a Sun Life Financial Advisor can give them unlimited income opportunities, the freedom of time, and help develop a sense of purpose as they help their clients achieve a more secure and brighter life. Real-life stories from Sun Life Financial Advisors will also be shared.

Attendees can also participate in activity booths that simulate the experiences of a Sun Life Financial Advisor. These include the “Next Big Quiz,” a quiz booth that challenges the attendees’ knowledge on life insurance; the “Next Big Destination,” an international-themed photo wall which represents the travel incentives of Sun Life advisors; and the “Next Big Project,” a booth that showcases the advisors’ corporate social responsibility activities where participants can also vote on the project advisors should support next. Exclusive Sun Life merchandise and other exciting prizes await those who will give the booths a try.

Those interested to join any of the Live Brighter Forums can get in touch with a Sun Life advisor or visit www.sunlife.co/gig to know more.

Jollibee, the Philippines’ most loved fast-food chain, is stirring up the coffee scene once again with its newest addition to Jollibee Coffee Blends – the new Iced Mocha. Their freshly brewed coffee, made with 100% Arabica beans, is now mixed with creamy chocolate to give you that perfect mood-boosting blend, perfect for coffee lovers looking for an indulgent pick-me-up!

The all-new Iced Mocha combines the richness of freshly brewed coffee with the smoothness of creamy chocolate, creating an irresistible blend that gives you that coffee kick and satisfies your sweet cravings.

“More than that kick of caffeine, we now usually drink coffee for that mood-boosting feeling, and Jollibee’s new Iced Mocha is all about giving you the 2 contrasting experiences of rich, freshly brewed coffee and creamy chocolate, blended perfectly for that much-needed coffee break vibe,” says Luis Berba, Marketing Director of Jollibee. “It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience, offering a deliciously rich blend of chocolate and coffee to elevate your mood.”

A Deliciously Rich Blend Like No Other

The Iced Mocha is available in both regular and large sizes; the new Iced Mocha Float is also available for a sweeter and more indulgent option. Whether you’re taking a much-needed break from a busy day or just want to indulge in something special, the new Iced Mocha and Iced Mocha Float are designed to be your go-to pick-me-up and mood-booster.

Crafted to please Filipinos’ sweeter coffee preference, Iced Mocha is priced perfectly for your daily vibe starting at P60, and P75 for the Iced Mocha Float. This new addition to Jollibee Coffee Blends is available starting April 24.

Check out the New Vibe at Jollibee

“Get that vibe with our new Iced Mocha,” invites Luis “Again, it’s not just a coffee, it’s a vibe—an experience to enjoy and share.”

Don’t miss out on this deliciously rich choco-coffee blend—head to your nearest Jollibee and taste the vibe for yourself! Available for dine-in, takeout, or delivery via the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and Foodpanda.

SM Prime’s (L-R): Assistant Corporate Secretary Arthur Sy, Corporate Secretary Atty. Elmer Serrano, Chief Finance Officer and Chief Compliance Officer John Nai Peng Ong, President Jeffrey Lim, Independent Director Atty. Darlene Marie Berberabe, Chairman of the Board Henry Sy Jr., Vice Chairman and Lead Independent Director Amando Tetangco Jr., Non-Executive Director Herbert Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, and Non-Executive Director Jorge Mendiola

Manila, Philippines – SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPH), the leading integrated property developer in the Philippines, marks its 30th anniversary as a publicly listed company with the announcement of its highest-ever recorded income and a ₱100 billion investment for its partners, stakeholders, and communities they operate in. With eyes set on the future, SM Prime reaffirms its position as a catalyst for economic development and community advancement.

Record-Breaking Performance

From Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Lanson Place, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Turf Residences, SM City Yangzhou in China, SM Mega Tower, SM Mall of Asia Complex, and SM City North EDSA

During the Annual Stockholders Meeting held on April 23, 2024, SM Prime announced its highest-ever recorded income, reaching PHP40 billion in consolidated net income, marking a 33% increase from 2022. Additionally, the company’s revenues surged by 21%, soaring to PHP128.1 billion, a notable growth from the previous year. The consolidated operating income also saw significant growth, rising by 24% to PHP61.3 billion.

The outstanding performance can be attributed to SM Prime’s mall business, driving 56% of consolidated revenues and a 30% growth to PHP71.9 billion in 2023. This growth was bolstered by a 24% increase in mall rental income, amounting to PHP61.3 billion. Moreover, the opening of four new malls in 2023 expanded SM’s retail presence to 85 malls in the Philippines and 8 malls in China.

Meanwhile, SM Prime’s residential business group, led by SM Development Corporation (SMDC), recorded an 8% growth in revenues to PHP43.1 billion in 2023. The residential group’s gross profit rose by 15% to PHP25.4 billion, with reservation sales standing at PHP102 billion.

In addition to its mall and residential businesses, SM Prime’s other key segments, comprising offices, hotels, and convention centers, contributed 10% of consolidated revenues, reported PHP13.1 billion in revenues in 2023, marking a remarkable 26% increase from the previous year.

Commitment to Shared Growth

4 New SM Malls in 2024: SM City Caloocan, SM City J Mall, SM City Laoag, and SM City La Union

At the core of SM Prime’s success is its unwavering commitment to shared prosperity in every city where they are present. With a strategic ₱100 billion investment capital expenditure in 2024, SM Prime aims to reinvest in its partners, stakeholders, and communities.

SM Prime aims to continuously expand and develop new places for every Filipino to enjoy. 60% will be dedicated to enhancing its malls, development of new residential properties under SMDC, and construction of new hotels and convention centers. 40% will be directed towards acquiring new properties and coastal developments to pave the way for modern, eco-friendly urbanization.

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability and Disaster Resilience

From Left to Right, Top to Bottom: SM Foundation’s Grow Trees Community Program, SM Cares’ Bike-Friendly Program, ARISE Philippines Chairperson Mr. Hans Sy and Members, SM Supermalls x Bureau of Fire Protection’s (BFP) Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill, SM Supermalls’ Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations, and SM Prime’s Solar Rooftop Project

SM Prime has always been committed towards creating a sustainable future. SM Prime continues to work towards its goal of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040, aligning with the Department of Energy’s target of reaching a 35% renewable energy share by 2030. Through partnerships with renewable energy suppliers and organizations like the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), SM Prime endeavors to reduce its environmental footprint and advocate for sustainable practices in all areas of its operations.

SM Supermalls’ SM Cares and SMDC’s The Good Guys also remain actively engaged in various community initiatives, such as conducting community disaster preparedness programs, providing support programs for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, and promoting job generation and entrepreneurship through nationwide job fairs and MSME programs. Other initiatives include coastal clean-ups, the donation of school buildings and fire trucks, and the organization of eco-camps for youth.

Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime Holdings shared, “At SM Prime, we’re not just building spaces; we’re cultivating lifetimes of progress and shared growth. Our commitment lies in empowering Filipinos to thrive within their neighborhoods, whether through convenient shopping experiences at SM Supermalls, quality living in SMDC homes, or fulfilling work environments in our office properties. We believe that individual success fuels community prosperity, creating opportunities, and driving the nation’s growth for many years to come.”

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. For more information, visit www.smprime.com.

The Juans at the Blue Bay Walk!

Experience a Summer Night concert with one of the most sought-after Filipino Pop Rock Bands 🎸 that hits our heart and soul with their heartbreaking songs – The Juans!

Don’t forget to shop and dine at Federal Land’s Blue Bay Walk or MET Live Mall stores from April 12-26, 2024 🛍️ to get chance to experience the Live Concert Event “Summer Nights at Blue Bay Walk with The Juans”.

#SummerNightsAtBBW #TheJuans #BlueBayWalk

Scaling Up: 2024 World Music Festival @Taiwan opens its call for emerging artists

Embracing Diversity, Cultivating Talent, and Elevating Global Music Scene

Embarking on its 8th edition, the 2024 World Music Festival @Taiwan (WMFT) is thrilled to announce the opening of its Showcase applications, accepting submissions until May 25th. Scheduled to unfold from October 11th to 13th across three stages at Taipei’s premier musical venue, this year’s event promises to build upon the resounding success of previous years.

Notably, artists from last year’s festival are invited to perform at renowned showcase festivals worldwide this year, including Colours Of Ostrava (CZ), Tallinn Music Week (EE), Seoul Music Week (KR), and beyond, thereby etching a new chapter for diverse music on the global stage.

Under the banner theme “GROOVE TO YOUR ADDICTION,” this year’s festival aims to explore the intricate relationship between artists and audiences, delving deep into three distinct facets: Hooked On Music, Immersed In Music, and Touched By

Music. WMFT remains dedicated to curating diverse musical experiences while providing a professional platform for burgeoning global talents.

Excitingly, the selection process now boasts 16 showcases, comprising nine from Taiwan and seven from overseas. To ensure a fair competition, applications are divided into two categories: Jury Selection and New Talents, catering to emerging artists of varying degrees and ages who are seeking discovery and cultivation.

The 2024 WMFT proudly welcomes 15 esteemed international experts from across the music industry, and the first wave list has been announced! Among them are Darek Mazzone from KEXP; Filip Košťálek and Zlata Holušová from Colours of Ostrava; Martyna van Nieuwland from Music Meeting Festival; Noda Ryuji from Music Lane Festival Okinawa; Phuong Le from Wonderfruit Festival; Takuya Salam Unagam from NHK; and Umair Jaffar from Small World Music Festival.

Participating in face-to-face sessions with artists, such as Speed Meetings, Networking, and Industry Conferences, these industry stalwarts not only explore opportunities for emerging talent but also impart invaluable insights to participants.

Reflecting on her experience at the 2023 WMFT, Minna Huuskonen, founder of Minnamurra Music, shared, “I was especially interested in the indigenous music and was amazed how the small island captures many areas of flourishing musical life.”

The WMFT offers musicians a golden opportunity to captivate both Asian audiences and international industry experts with their exceptional skills. Through years of fostering diversity and excellence, it has solidified its position as an indispensable music festival in East Asia.

Applications are now open to independent and emerging artists worldwide, with final results slated for announcement on June 19th, 2024.

Don’t miss out on realme’s limited-time summer discount, available until April 30 only

Summer is all about visiting local and international tourist destinations and capturing moments to share online or to look back on. Make this season more memorable with a game-changing offer for the realme C67 that will only be available for a limited time.

Here are some reasons why the realme C67 can redefine the Squad’s next summer outing:

A pro-level camera wherever, whenever

Part of the summer experience is shooting content to share on social media. Make photos and videos look professional with the realme C67’s 108MP camera, enhanced by its 3x In-Sensor Zoom and EIS. These result in a boost in clarity, texture, and depth. Street and Night Modes are perfect for mobile photographers experimenting with their shots.

Stay on top of work and play with a high-performing processor

A smartphone is not just a partner at play, but it can also support day-to-day tasks at work. This is especially true for those taking their work with them on their vacation. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 with 8GB in storage paired with Dynamic RAM Expansion, is powerful enough to shoot content effortlessly, attend video meetings, send emails, and run high-graphic games. Work-life balance becomes so much more fun when it’s out of town.

A powerhouse that can fit in any pocket

The realme C67 is a powerhouse nestled in a 7.59 mm Ultra Slim Body built with a seamless curved body design that has no plastic bracket. This guarantees a comfortable in-hand feel at the beach or up the mountains that leads to a more enjoyable experience. Its Sunny Oasis Design comes with a 3D light effect that matches the spirit of the summer, making it the perfect fashion statement.

Beat the intense heat with these hot deals

The Squad can take advantage of the exciting, temporary price drop until April 30, 2024 only, in all physical realme stores and official distributors nationwide.

To learn more about realme’s latest updates, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.

OPPO brings an exciting treat to Filipino Carats as they launch an exclusive promo with the latest faces of the OPPO Reno11 F 5G and OPPO Reno Experts, BSS (SEVENTEEN)!

The subunit of the renowned K-pop group SEVENTEEN has risen to fame with the popularity of their hit songs “Just Do It”, “Fighting (Feat. Lee Young Ji)”, and “7 PM (Feat. Peder Elias)”. The three members’ embodiment of youthful energy and a genuine love for self-expression perfectly represents the key features of OPPO’s latest smartphone, reflecting the dynamic qualities that set the OPPO Reno11 F 5G apart in the market.

OPPO Reno Expert Seungkwan

OPPO Reno Expert DK

OPPO Reno Expert Hoshi

Starting April 21, 2024, every customer who will avail the #PortraitExpert OPPO Reno11 F 5G from participating OPPO stores nationwide, OPPO’s official Shopee, Lazada and TikTok Shop channels and via installment through Home Credit for as low as P759/month at 0% interest will receive an exclusive postcard set which includes two postcards each of BSS (SEVENTEEN) members SEUNGKWAN, DK and HOSHI.

Participating OPPO Brand Stores:

OPPO Brand Stores NCR (starting April 21) – SM North EDSA, SM City Manila, SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, Ayala Market! Market!, SM City Fairview, Robinsons Place Manila, SM City Grand Central Mall, Glorietta and SM Cubao

OPPO Brand Stores Provincial (starting April 28) – SM City Dasmariñas, SM City Calamba, SM City Lipa, SM City Batangas, SM City Sta Rosa, SM City Bacoor, SM City Cebu, Robinsons Place Dumaguete, SM City Baguio, Robinsons San Nicolas, SM City Legazpi, SM City Naga, SM City Pampanga, SM City Clark, Robinsons Malolos, SM City Cabanatuan, Gaisano Mall Davao

SM City Davao, SM City Mindoro, SM City Lanang

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a limited BSS (SEVENTEEN) charm with OPPO Reno11 F 5G.

The OPPO Reno11 F 5G is now available in the Philippines for PHP 18,999. With vibrant, eye-catching style, a 64MP Ultra-Clear Triple Camera and a 120Hz AMOLED Borderless display, the Reno11F 5G is a winning combination of fresh looks and smart experiences. It comes in three colorways – Coral Purple, Ocean Blue, and Palm Green.

For more information about the OPPO Reno 11 Series 5G, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com.ph/ and Facebook page.

*Terms and Conditions apply

*DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-190560 Series of 2024

MANILA, Philippines.– In a sector traditionally associated with men, the significant contributions of women in agriculture often go unrecognized. Official data from Philippine Statistics Authority from 2007 to 2016 shows that about 25% of workers in the agricultural sector are female, but this data may not fully reflect the actual participation on the ground according to a report by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW).

In its website, the PCW states that “women’s work in agriculture is normally considered to be extensions of their household tasks and therefore not reported as work.” As such, a large number of women may be unaccounted for in the agricultural sector.

In this piece, the Jollibee Group puts a spotlight on the stories of three women farmers who are proof that women can also thrive and succeed in agriculture work.

Celebrating women farmers

Maricel Sevilleja of San Jose, Nueva Ecija; Noralyn Lopez of Tagudin, Ilocos Sur; and Bernadeth Carandang of Magallanes, Cavite are among the women farmers under the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) of the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of the Jollibee Group.

The FEP was started in 2008 to help smallholder farmers become entrepreneurs—they learn technical and business skills so they can improve not only their produce, but also their source of livelihood. JGF partners with various organizations to provide the training and interventions, such as helping famers form clusters, so they can collectively meet the volume and quality requirements of buyers like the Jollibee Group.

Sevilleja, now 41 years old and a mother of two, started farming in 2006 when her parents became too old to farm. “Farming is not only for men. We can do what men can,” she said. “Farming may be hard but when you think about it, no work in this world is easy. We only need to learn how to love and enjoy our work.”

“To my fellow women farmers, don’t be afraid to grow and learn more about modern farming. For those who would like to become farmers, welcome! Let’s show the world that women can be great farmers too.”

Like Sevilleja, Noralyn Lopez is also a farmer’s daughter. But farming wasn’t her first choice for work. “Six years akong nagtrabaho as office staff. Tumigil ako last year at nagsimulang tumulong sa tatay ko sa pag-supply ng onion sa Jollibee Group,” she shared.” (I worked as an office staff for six years. I stopped working last year to help my father in farming onions to supply to the Jollibee Group.)

Lopez also shared her encouraging experience: “Wala naman ng gender issue. May gender equality naman na po. Ang mga kasama naman namin sa farming, itinuturing naman na akong kapatid.” (There’s a sense of gender equality. My colleagues see me as their sibling.)

Thriving in agriculture work. Bernadeth Carandang (middle in sky blue) and other women farmers proudly show their harvested onions. Aside from being a farmer, Bernadeth is also a teacher and a leader of the Mag-Samakame farmers’ cooperative in Cavite.

Bernadette Carandang shares the same sentiment. “Kaming mag-asawa, parehong magsasaka. Hindi limitasyon ang pagiging babae para sa ganitong larangan,” she said. (My husband and I are both farmers. Being a woman should never be a hindrance for this type of work.)

Before becoming a farmer, Carandang used to work in an electronics company. Today, she’s also a teacher and a farmer leader of Mag-Samakame cooperative in Cavite. She emphasized the need for sustained programs that help farmers improve their livelihood, such as the FEP.

Helping farmers to become entrepreneurs

“Tinuruan ako ng FEP na gawing matatag na negosyo ang pagsasaka,” Carandang shared. “Bukod sa kaalaman sa makabagong pagsasaka dahil sa mga bigay nitong teknikal na kaalaman, ang paghubog sa aking kamalayan na ang pagsasaka ay isang profession ay hindi matatawaran.” (FEP taught me to turn farming into a stable business. Apart from the technical skills in modern farming that I have learned from them, I have also developed the mindset that farming is a profession. This to me is invaluable.)

The white onions, green bell peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables that the Jollibee Group uses in select products of Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Mang Inasal come directly from smallholder farmers across the Philippines like Sevilleja, Lopez, and Carandang. In the last five years, FEP farmers have generated a total of P370 Million worth of sales.

“Jollibee Group po ang aming unang institutional buyer. Tumaas po talaga income namin. Ngayon, plano po namin na mas mapalawak pa ang koneksyon namin sa institutional buyers, in coordination with our local government unit,” Carandang said. (The Jollibee Group is our first institutional buyer. Our income definitely increased. We aim to expand our connection with institutional buyers in coordination with our local government unit.)

But one of the greater challenges that must be addressed these days is how the younger generation perceives farming. “Sabi ko nga sa mga estudyante ko, ‘Ano ang gusto niyo maging pag dating ng araw?’ Walang may gusto mag farming. Ngayon, tinuturuan ko sila na ang agriculture ay hindi pang mahirap. Ito ay business. Kung may farmer, may pag-asa,” Carandang said. (I asked my students, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ No one wants to become a farmer. Now I’m teaching them that farming is not a poor man’s job. It is a business. When we have more farmers, we have more hope for the future.)

Capacitating women in agriculture. These women farmers from San Jose, Nueva Ecija, receive agro-entrepreneurship training from JGF and representatives of local government units.

HORI7ON, the newest South Korean-based, Filipino boyband, sets sail on SM City Baliwag in line with their comeback tour across the Philippines.

Rocking the stage at the Mall Atrium, HORI7ON delighted fans with a powerful performance and a thrilling fan signing event.

In collaboration with MLD Entertain PH, SM Malls Online presents an exclusive partnership with HORI7ON, offering fans the chance to treat themselves to special HORI7ON merchandise like never before.

HORI7ON’s exclusive photos from their new digital single “Lucky” and Friend-SHIP album, all packed with other special merchandise, will be available for purchase exclusively through SM Malls Online.

Fans may also grab the exclusive HORI7ON suitcase box set, offered solely through SM Malls Online and on-ground selling.

Purchasing this special product not only grants you access to the Manila showcase event in SM malls but also enters you into a draw to join the exclusive VIP Fan Meet, where 30 lucky winners will get up close and personal with their idols.

To know more about SM Supermalls’ exciting events, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.