Fra Lippo Lippi will be staging a two-day concert this week: The Theatre at Solaire on Friday, June 16, 2023, and the Santa Rosa Sports Complex on Saturday, June 17, 2023.
The Norwegian pop act, headed by lead vocalist and keyboardist Per Sorensen, returns to Manila and Laguna for a concert that asserts their influence as one of the defining acts of the new wave era.
Earlier this month, Fra Lippo Lippi’s Per Sorensen guested at ABS-CBN’s Showtime to promote his upcoming two-day concert, produced by DMC Philippines. He also expressed his gratitude to the Filipino fans who have shown unwavering love and support for his music during an intimate press con last June 12, 2023 at the Kingsford Hotel in Paranaque City, Metro Manila.
“I’m always grateful to the Philippines for the warm welcome that they give me every time I visit the country to do a show,” the ‘80s pop icon shares. “I’m excited to grace the concert stage once again and perform some of the biggest hits of my career, along with some personal favorites.”
Fra Lippo Lippi is best known for their worldwide hits, including classics such as “Every time I See You;” “Beauty and Madness;” “Stitches and Burns;” “Light and Shade;” “The Distance Between Us;” “Angel;” and more.
After bassist and founding co-member Rune Kristoffer decided to call it quits, Per Sorensen kept the band’s music alive through live concert tours all around the world, with the Philippines as one of its regular stops.
In 2002, Per Sorensen and his band released “Later,” a chart-topping smash in Asia and the rest of Europe. He even managed to collaborate with Filipino R&B star Kyla on “Wish We Were Two;” which garnered heavy airplay on various top 40 stations in Manila and major cities across the Philippines.
This event is supported by Steve Hovington of B-Movie, who will be performing with Fra Lippo Lippi’s Per Sorensen at both venues: The Theatre at Solaire on Friday, June 16, 2023, and the Santa Rosa Sports Complex on Saturday, June 17, 2023.
The event is presented by New DMC Entertainment Production Management, Maui & Sons, and The Rail.
While the rising popularity and accessibility of most mobile games, such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, mean that anyone can easily pick up and play them, there will come a point where you just want to level up your game and win more.
Some find that going pro is a lucrative way to earn money and win fame simply for playing the game you love—while others just love winning a lot for bragging rights. (The game has local rankings, and being a top player in your area is definitely something to flex.)
So if you want to be better at your game of choice, here are a few simple (yet high-effort) ways to “git gud”:
Study the metagame
Online games don’t exist in a vacuum. Developers constantly both add and take away new things, and the way people play at one point won’t ever be the same, say, a few months from then.
That’s why it’s always important to stay updated with the different movements in the metagame—if you log on and play the same way you did a while back, be prepared to be shocked (sometimes in a good way, but mostly in a bad way). There are a lot of resources to study, like tutorial videos, dedicated game websites, and even game livestreams.
Practice, practice, practice
Of course, you can’t win games just by studying. Everyone knows this; you’ve gotta practice because all that theory doesn’t apply to the actual game.
One thing—though it’s totally fine to practice on your own, team games require you to have chemistry and knowledge of how your teammates generally play. You won’t always get better when it comes to playing with a team when you queue up with random players on the internet, so if you want a shot at winning official tournaments or you just want to rank up with your friends, get your squad in regular practice sessions. It’s a lot better that way.
Do what works for you
Mobile games have made it incredibly easy to play genres that usually worked a lot better with a keyboard and mouse thanks to successful in-game designs, but you don’t have to stop there.
The beauty of these games is the ability to customize controls and control schemes. For some games, you can change where buttons are to suit your playstyle and produce better results. If you want to take it a step further, you can use controllers specifically made for smartphones, especially if your fingers tend to sweat a lot. All of this isn’t really cheating—gaming is trying to find the best way to play, and if that works for you, you should definitely make these changes to be a better gamer.
And doing what works for you also includes having a great phone for gaming—If you want to be an elite player at your game of choice, it’s time to gear up with the latest and the best! Infinix Philippines recently launched the Infinix NOTE 30 series, the newest addition to its impressive line-up of gaming-optimized phones.
So, what can we expect from the Infinix NOTE 30 5G? It’s got competitive specs that allow you to run any of your favorite mobile games smoothly, namely its 5G Dimensity 6080 5G Processor that has the latest Android 13 operating system, as well as the power of its up to 16GB Extended RAM 8+8 GB. You can also download all the games you want with up to 256 GB of storage, making sure you never run out of space.
It’s also got cutting-edge charging features that set this phone apart from all the rest. Gamers can enjoy up to two hours of nonstop gaming with the Infinix NOTE 30’s large 5,000mAh battery. Its fast charging technology, which allows you to charge the battery to 75% in just 30 minutes, will be helpful for when you’re on the go and need a quick power up. The Bypass Charging feature ensures that the phone will stay cool while charging.
On top of that, there are also multiple ways you can charge your Infinix NOTE 30—wired or reverse charging.
So what are you waiting for? Be the best in the game by getting the ultra-fast NOTE 30 now—here’s where you can get it:
NOTE 30 5G:
●256GB: P9,999 (available in official Infinix kiosks and concept stores nationwide, and viaLazada, Shopee, andTikTok)
● 128GB: P9,499 (available in official Infinix kiosks and concept stores nationwide, and viaLazada, Shopee, andTikTok)
NOTE 30 4G:
●256GB: P8,499 (available in official Infinix kiosks and concept stores nationwide, and viaLazada, Shopee, andTikTok)
● 128GB: P7,999(available in official Infinix kiosks and concept stores nationwide, and viaLazada, Shopee, andTikTok)
Find out more about the Infinix NOTE 30 Series via the official Infinixwebsite andFacebook page.
White is the color of fun this year as Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the maker of the world’s no. 1 selling gin, is celebrating World Gin Day (WGD) in a “cool, clear, and versatile” way. Starting with a media launch on June 8 at The Westin Manila in Ortigas, a series of events will be held to highlight June as World Gin month.
WGD, a global celebration observed every second Saturday of June, is spearheaded in the Philippines by GSMI, as it was also the one who brought the first WGD festivities to the Asia Pacific region back in 2014. That year, GSMI marked the 180th year of its flagship brand, Ginebra San Miguel. Today, gin enthusiasts look forward to GSMI’s month-long activities, which not only celebrate gin’s enduring influence on our drinking culture but also its role in celebrations, fiestas, gatherings, and even our everyday triumphs.
“We join gin enthusiasts worldwide in celebrating World Gin Day. As pioneers of this event in our country, we aspire to ignite the spirit of greater appreciation for more Filipinos to know gin’s outstanding qualities, as it is a drink that is ‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile,’” says GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina.
‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile’
This June 8, GSMI once again reinforces that “Gin Is In,” highlighting gin’s “Cool, Clear, and Versatile” qualities that elevate it from the rest.
Gin has been around since the 17th century, and remains popular to this day, especially in Europe, and of course, the Philippines. It is loved by many, and its popularity can be attributed to its taste—the flavor of Juniper and a variety of botanicals—allowing gin to exude that classic yet “Cool” vibe.
The gin’s “Clear,” pure quality is derived from a rigorous distillation process that brings out its best flavor. Since it is unpretentious – with nothing to hide – it is a drink known for its “Versatility,” as it can be enjoyed straight or mixed with other ingredients in a cocktail.
In a new campaign supporting the appreciation for Gin, GSMI features three exciting and authentic personalities who perfectly embody these unique characteristics of gin.
Gin Is Cool.
The actor and model Zanjoe Marudo likes the cool and refreshing gin experience to punctuate the day. For him, being cool is more than style and moves; it is being calm, too. “Alam niyo kung anong totoong COOL sakin? Yung pagiging kalmado ko (You know what’s truly cool for me? It is my being calm),” says Zanjoe. His choice of gin is popular to this day – Ginebra San Miguel, which has been his favorite since his days growing up in Batangas.
Gin Is Clear.
Basel Manadil’s choice is GSM Premium Gin, a distilled gin made with natural ingredients and fine botanicals. Popularly known as “The Hungry Syrian,” the Syrian-born Filipino vlogger’s viral posts have made him a clear favorite among millions of netizens. As he would say, “always be CLEAR with your intentions no matter where you go. Because everything you do, can make an impact to others.” Gin is Versatile.
Actress-comedian Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol likes her gin to be versatile, a drink she can enjoy in many ways. This love for versatility in drinks is something that she also carries in life. The fact that this comedian was able to transform herself into a serious pageant contender truly is outstanding and admirable. Herlene has won over Filipinos with her charming wit, down-to-earth personality, and of course, her remarkable versatility. “In life, dapat VERSATILE (In life, one should be versatile). If you are good at one thing, you can also be good at anything! Stay true while learning many things.”
The three of them – Zanjoe, Basel, and Herlene – will not only grace the WGD celebration but will also be present at various events of GSMI during “Gin Is In” celebrations starting in June.
“We are proud to say that they truly embody the best qualities of gin: Zanjoe is ‘Cool like Gin Is In.’ Basel is ‘Clear like Gin Is In,’ and Herlene is ‘Versatile like Gin Is In,’” Molina added.
GSM Bar Academy graduates ‘mix’ back
One of the highlights of the WGD event is the presence of three mixologists who are scholar-graduates of the Ginebra San Miguel Bar Academy, a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) that gives Filipinos a chance to change their lives through education – training students in bartending, flairtending, and basic entrepreneurship.
With the goal of producing globally-competitive and job-ready graduates, while elevating the quality of the bartending profession in the process, the GSM Bar Academy is proud to say that it has produced an astounding 100% immediate employability for all its graduates in 2022.
During WGD, three graduates of the GSM Bar Academy – Jhyrus Denver A. Domingo, Angela Felarca, and JP Peñaflor – who are all employed in top bars in Metro Manila, will showcase their mixology skills in a friendly competition with the theme, “Gin Is In, ” which will feature the world’s most popular and bestselling gin Ginebra San Miguel and other brands, GSM Blue and GSM Premium Distilled Gin.
The success of the GSM Bar Academy in transforming the lives not only of the students but also of their families and the community has not gone unnoticed. In fact, the program will be a recipient of the prestigious International CSR Excellence Award, to be formally awarded on June 16 in London, UK.
Gin Is In’ Nationwide
Part of the WGD celebration will be the launch of the second season of G-MIX Nation Online Series, hosted by Luis Manzano, which will be shown for the first time and will feature new cocktail recipes. Alongside is the Home Bar Kit that features Ginebra products and tools for mixing different kinds of cocktails, which is sold online and at select supermarkets.
To ensure gin enthusiasts across the country can partake in the “Gin Is In” festivity, Ginebra San Miguel Inc. will also host mini events in around 50 bars nationwide, including those in Pampanga, Naga, Cebu, and Cagayan De Oro. These bar activations will offer consumers exclusive promotions, raffle giveaways, and outlet merchandising, providing an opportunity for everyone to immerse themselves in the celebration.
To sustain the momentum of the “Gin Is In,” there will be various activities in hundreds on-premise outlets from July to December. Participating outlets will receive exclusive benefits, special “Gin Is In” stubs for consumers to support their patronage.
GSMI’s World Gin Day celebration is just the beginning of a series of exciting events, allowing enthusiasts to declare their love and support for the vibrant local gin culture. In the country, gin is synonymous with Ginebra San Miguel. It is the country’s pioneering gin and the oldest consumer brand still in the market, but still remains cool, clear and versatile, a timeless classic yet still in tune with the times.
Each bottle of Ginebra San Miguel undergoes a stringent production process to ensure optimal quality. As a testament to the strength of its brand name, variants such as GSM Blue, GSM Blue Flavors, and Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, have been introduced to cater to different market segments. Just launched last year, its 1834 Premium Distilled Gin has now become a sought-after drink among those with sophisticated taste, as they are enamored with its infusion of classic juniper berries and unique Philippine botanicals such as Sampaguita and Calamansi.
GSMI is the producer of Ginebra San Miguel, the world’s largest-selling gin, according to leading global drinks journal, Drinks International. GSMI’s other quality distilled spirits include GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, GSM Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Añejo Gold Rum, Primera Light Brandy, the Philippines’ no. 1 Chinese wine Vino Kulafu and the newly launched G&T Ultralight Spirit Drink.
Every parent knows you can shout at the top of your voice until you’re blue in the face, but you can’t always make children listen. Especially if what you are shouting about is something that is potentially dangerous, but their peers more commonly believe is “cool”.
It doesn’t matter if you’re right or wrong, it doesn’t matter if you have their best interests at heart, it doesn’t matter that you might have lived through the very same thing that they are and are trying to help them not make your mistakes. After kids hit a certain age, adults become the enemy.
So how do you get an important message through to adolescents? By using one of the most powerful communication tools known to man: storytelling.
Neil Gaiman, wildly successful author and graphic novelist, tells us that stories “teach us how the world is put together and the rules of living in the world, and they come in an attractive enough package that we take pleasure from them and want to help them propagate.”
Invention born of necessity
It is given that youths of today will experiment with many things as they grow older, regardless of the environment and socio-economic conditions they grew up in.
Unfortunately, this means that the vast majority of young people all across the world will come across the chance to sample substances: nicotine, alcohol, or even illegal drugs.
Smashed, which was launched in the Philippines through a collaboration between Diageo Philippines and PETA Plus in partnership with UK-based company Collingwood Learning. It is a groundbreaking global program that is a pillar of Diageo’s Society 2030: Spirit of Progress commitment to tackle underage drinking.
Chris Simes, the Managing Director for Collingwood Learning, recognizes that in order to nip the problem in the bud, one has to take a completely different approach other than lecturing the youth. “This is a real change from the usual approach to alcohol education in schools and one that makes the risks of underage drinking impossible to forget. We understand that because of the pandemic, both teachers and students are still adjusting to the current normal. But we want to help carry the learning forward by providing high-quality teaching resources for use, despite the pandemic. We’re thrilled to be working with PETA Plus and the Department of Education in the Philippines to produce new innovative online learning solutions to supplement the highly successful live approach.”
Inevitably, kids who start drinking at an early age do not have minds and bodies that are able to process alcoholic beverages. They get lured into it by seeing it as a rite of passage, a means of escape, or a social requirement.
On its second run, Smashed utilizes a novel approach, with additional features designed for more interaction with its target audience.
Conceptualized during the time when education was adapting to the new constraints of being unable to hold physical classes, the Smashed Philippine project initially launched in September 2021. It was an interactive website (online.smashedproject.org) that sought to empower Filipino teens and preteens to make better choices by harnessing their critical thinking skills.
Smashed utilized an online platform featuring a gripping story with three main characters and even has a feature that makes the viewer feel like they are actually on video calls with the characters as they follow along.
What’s the problem?
It’s easy to ignore a problem you don’t see. Teens learn how to drink from adults. They think it’s okay because they see it everyday, and sometimes, they are even encouraged to drink, especially males. Adults will sometimes allow their children to drink inside their homes with their friends because it is ‘safer’, saying, “mas okay nang dito ka mag-inom sa bahay kesa sa labas”.
But the Philippines does have an underage drinking culture. If you’re ever in doubt about this fact, just ask the kids.
Angel Borda (left ) student at Don Alejandro Roces Sr. Science- Technology High School (DARRSTHS)
Ashley Mae Torres, a tenth-grade student from Quirino High School, points out, “Bilang kabataan, mas marami akong nakikitang proud maging alcoholic.” That’s a worrying statement indeed, but she also credits Smashed, seeing the potential good in the program. “Salamat at dahil sa Smashed mas lumawak ang aking kaalaman sa mga panganib ng alcohol,” says Ashley. “Mas magandang piliin ang tama kasya sa udyok ng ibang tao.”
The Philippines, which has a thriving drinking culture, reports that 70% of the population has consumed alcohol before the age of 14, despite it being illegal for stores and restaurants to sell or serve the substance to minors. This could be a problem.
Sometimes the adults in the lives of young drinkers are the problem. In a scathing insight, the winner of the Smashed essay writing contest notes, “Ang problem po sa underage drinking sa bansa natin ay ine-encourage pa ng ibang family na ‘uy uminom ka’. Diyan din ako nagsimula ayaw ko pang uminom pero kinalaunan umiinom na rin ako tapos na-enjoy ko na rin.” Angel Borda, from Don Alejandro Roces Sr. Science-Technology High School emphasizes that the relatability of the situations of the characters was especially helpful in this case. “Pero ‘yun po yung mali talaga. We have to break that mindset. Napansin ko po yung kay Miko and kay Jella na yung pinagdadaanan po nila sa buhay nila, sa personal life nila is yun po yung ineexplain po nun kung bakit sila may addiction sa drinking pero it’s not an excuse sa behavior na pinapakita nila. Yung pagiging iresponsable nila, yung kawalan nila ng respeto sa ibang tao, kumbaga hindi sila main character sa buhay na ito at hindi lang sila ang maapektuhan sa buhay na ginagawa nila.”
The American-based National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) has published research that has found that those who get into the habit of alcohol consumption earlier in life may suffer more from it than those who learn to drink at an appropriate age. It states that “youthful patterns of alcohol use can mark the start of a developmental pathway that may lead to abuse and dependence”, and that continued drinking may lead to physiological reactions, such as depression or anxiety disorders, triggering an even greater reliance on the substance to alleviate the symptoms of these disorders. That’s already discounting the immediate effects of alcohol on young minds, which could lead to poor decision-making, patterns of antisocial behavior, and impaired motor skills. Finally, there is also the detrimental effect of extensive alcohol exposure on developing vital organs such as the liver and brain.
Lofty goals and marked successes
During its initial rollout in the Philippines in 2021, Smashed was supported by 120 schools in 17 regions and managed to get up in front of an audience of 17,700 young people. With the Department of Education and other academic institutions serving as partners, Smashed Online was able to equip educators and young leaders with workshops and training.
For 2023, the program’s goal is to be able to get its message through to over 25,000 students, partnering with schools and educators all over the Philippines. It is the program’s target to reach 300,000 Filipino youths by 2030 by working in close collaboration with the Department of Education.
“We are proud to support an important program to address the dangers associated with underage drinking like Smashed in the Philippines. This is part of our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress at Diageo, and we are confident that we can make a positive impact with the Filipino youths in making informed choices about alcohol and combat alcohol related harm for generations to come”, comments Shanahan Chua, Corporate Relations Director of Diageo Philippines.
According to the Philippines’ Smashed Online project manager, Gold Villar-Lim, in 2022, 93% of the total participants surveyed reported a marked attitudinal change. “Overall, the project is not only a big step in advocating for alcohol education and youth empowerment, but also in promoting applied theater and drama-in-education as effective teaching tools in the Philippines,” says Villar-Lim.
It isn’t just about making a connection with the participants, either. Smashed tries to melt the resistance that most children seem to have towards reaching out to adults to help in case they find themselves in a sticky spot due to alcohol, especially their parents. And it seems that the message is getting through.
Even educators are impressed. “Highly recommended talaga ang Smashed PH kasi na-to-touch niya yung mga buhay at talagang nangyayari araw araw sa mga mag-aaral, says Russel Radaza, a department head at President Sergio Osmeña High School Manila. “Mas maganda kung mas maraming schools ang ma-rereach out ng Smashed PH para sila ay mag-enjoy at mas matuto about alcoholic beverages.”
This sentiment is echoed by Jennifer Rances, a teacher at Sipocot National High School in Camarines Sur. Sa akin naman, talagang napakalaking tulong po nito na sa mga young learners lalo na ngayon iba na ang gusto nilang gawin hindi na sila nakafocus,” she says, emphasizing the lack of connection between a child’s attention span and traditional methods of education. She goes on to stress that “with these kinds of projects, talagang magiging focus nila ay […] ano ba talaga yung nangyayari sa society at ano ba talaga yung realidad. With this kind of project that Smashed Ph has, talagang sa tingin ko sobrang positive ako na madedevelop ang mga bata rito. Lahat madedevelop including their skills, pati yung mga talents nila at yung focus din even leadership skills.”
Could this change in the approach to the conversation create lasting effects in the way we approach underage drinking? Will it create deliberate and productive conversations between children at risk and the adults who are in the position to guide them? Evidence points to the possibility of both, and although only time will tell, Smashed Ph is definitely taking the necessary steps in the right direction.
Our smartphones have been a vital tool for us in powering through our daily activities. Through smartphones, we are able to communicate with the world, accomplish our work, and even enjoy our hobbies and passions.
A reliable and high-performing smartphone is needed to conquer our daily tasks, whether for work or play. Here are some reasons why the OnePlus 11 5G is the right gadget for the job.
Seamless and smooth performance
Your phone needs to keep up with your list of tasks and hectic schedule. Not to worry because the OnePlus 11 5G is equipped with a powerful processor that lets you go about your daily mobile phone activities without any lags and interruptions. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen2 processor and comes with an 8GB or 16GB variant that can extend up to additional 8GB RAM expansion, allowing you to multitask and can even have 44 apps running in the background all at once without overheating.
The OnePlus 11 5G also has a 48-month Fluency Protection rating which guarantees smooth performance from day one up to four years of usage. Your phone will remain in tip-top shape with minimal lags and degradation, truly making it a worthy investment.
Professional-Level Photography with Hasselblad
Whether you take photos for leisure or for a living, you would definitely appreciate the camera features of OnePlus 11 5G.
The camera of the OnePlus 11 5G is co-created by Hasselblad, and uses a system-based triple camera module paired with Hasselblad-branded color turning which allows you to capture images in its natural colors. This is ideal for taking pictures when you travel to scenic destinations, snapping fitness and work milestones, and capturing precious moments with your loved-ones.
The main sensor on the other hand, houses a 50MP Sony IMX890 camera that allows you to take low-light photos and videos even at backlit areas and thanks to its IMX581 48MP Ultra-Wide Sensor and IMX709 32MP telephoto lens, you are able to produce DSLR-level quality shots all the time.
Massive Battery with a Super Fast Charging Feature
If you’re always on the go, the OnePlus 11 5G is ideal for you. Because of its massive 5000 mAh battery, it can last you the entire day and can handle any activity including lengthy video conferences, binge-watching your favorite shows , browsing through social media, or playing mobile games.
It also has a 100W SUPERVOOC fast-charging feature that allows you to fully charge the battery in less than 30 minutes. The OnePlus 11 5G also has an innovative Battery Health Engine designed to make charging safer and more efficient. The lifespan of the device’s battery is extended to around 1,600 charge or discharge cycles, which is twice better than the current industry standard of 800 cycles.
The OnePlus 11 5G is priced at PHP 45,990 for the 8+128GB variant and PHP 49,990 for the 16+256GB variant. It comes in 2 colorways – Titan Black and Eternal Green.
Experience the Shape of Power and get the OnePlus 11 5G today in all official OnePlus kiosks and select OPPO brand stores nationwide. You may also purchase via Lazada and Shopee.
For more information on the OnePlus 11 5G, its features, and its availability, check out https://www.oneplus.com/ph or OnePlus Philippines’ official Facebook page.
Chairs, tables, and other creations crafted with intricate bone inlay details by Flores Furniture are among the finest collections showcased during the “Kalupkop: Mga Kontemporaryong Muwebles at Disenyong Baliwagenyo” exhibit held in celebration of Buntal Festival at SM City Baliwag.
With a few days left before Independence, SM City Baliwag pays homage to the province’s rich art and culture. Taking the spotlight is no less than Baliwag’s celebrated Buntal Festival as well as a unique showcase of Bulacan visual arts in the “ReGeneration” Traveling Art Exhibit.
Celebrating Baliwagenyos excellent craftsmanship, the LGU, in partnership with SM City Baliwag, opens Buntal Festival with an exhibit entitled “Kalupkop: Mga Kontemporaryong Muwebles at Disenyong Baliwagenyo”. Spearheaded by Baliwag City Tourism, the exhibit features locally made crafts by the biggest names in Baliwag furniture making such as Simbulan Industries Philippines, Triple E and J Furniture, Madera, Haspe, Vertus, Flores Furniture, 51 All Weather, Navarro Furniture, Rhion’s Furniture, Ayeshua Furniture, and OLME Furniture.
An elephant love seat crafted by 51 All Weather Furniture, a brand known for their outdoor rattan creations, is displayed at the “Kalupkop: Mga Kontemporaryong Muwebles at Disenyong Baliwagenyo” exhibit at SM City Baliwag.
A fashion show entitled “Obra Moda: Likhang Baliwagenyo” was also held at the Mall Atrium, where exceptional creations of Baliwag local fashion designers were showcased on the runway.
Apart from being one of Bulacan’s top shopping destinations, SM City Baliwag continues to support the city’s resilient and thriving economy by representing cultural traditions and festivals that would boost local tourism while giving everyone a glimpse of what Baliwag is known for.
In celebration of Buntal Festival, the Baliwag LGU lauded Baliwagenyos excellent craftsmanship through an exhibit entitled “Kalupkop: Mga Kontemporaryong Muwebles at Disenyong Baliwagenyo” in SM City Baliwag. The exhibit featured locally made crafts by Baliwag’s well-known furniture makers.
“SM strives to grow in unity with the community we serve,” said Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino. “As we continue to bring more options for fun and shopping, we would also like to preserve our town’s culture and tradition through meaningful events that would bridge people and history,” she added.
Meanwhile, in the art scene, Pulong Kabyawan Art Collective, in partnership with SM City Baliwag, marks a significant moment for the province’s art community with the “ReGeneration” traveling art exhibit featuring the exceptional creations of 25 Bulakenyo artists.
Exceptional creations by Baliwag local fashion designers were applauded at the recent “Obra Moda: Likhang Baliwagenyo” fashion show held in celebration of Buntal Festival at SM City Baliwag.
Delving into realizations of the pandemic and the new normal, “ReGeneration” aims to celebrate the resurgence or awakening of consciousness after a period of uncertainty while drawing inspiration from nature’s rebirth after a prolonged winter. Every artwork on display represents the unique vision and interpretation of the world, with topics of resilience and hope while offering renewed perspectives on life and communal growth. Among the emerging themes during the art exhibit were the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on humanity, sustainability, and the fusion of art and anatomy, among others.
Space Explorer, The Dreamer, and AI Robot scrap metal art by Rix Man of Baliwag City are among the creations displayed during the “ReGeneration” art exhibit in SM City Baliwag.
Boasting an array of celebrated artists such as Alex Roxas, Ambo Dolores, Angela Gabriel, Andrew Alto de Guzman, Arvie Tiongson, Avic Zamora, Bin Samonte, Carlo Caacbay, Clarisse Aguilera, Danny Rodriguez, Debong Palines, Dr. Sylvia Joaquin, Ed Santiago, Elmer Pacio, Erwin Mallari, Gilbert Calderon Angeles, Jan San Juan, Mar Perez, Mc Clen Talento, Oliver Marquez, Rex Tatlonghari, Rey Bautista, Richard Tercio, Rix Man, Salvador Sierra, the “ReGeneration” exhibit promises to be a feast for the senses.
Art lovers and enthusiasts celebrate the beauty and power of art in “ReGeneration” at SM City Baliwag, where select masterpieces of 25 Bulakenyo artists are displayed.
On this rare occasion, art lovers and enthusiasts came together to celebrate the beauty and power of art and its ability to inspire, heal, and unite. Visitors had a unique opportunity to engage with the artwork, learn about the artists’ creative process, and gain insights into the stories behind each piece. “Regeneration” in SM City Baliwag is the second in the series after the grand launch in SM Center Pulilan. The exhibit will conclude on September 1–15 at SM City Marilao.
Carmona Mayor Dahlia Loyola using GCash at the Carmona Public Market
To further strengthen their efforts to promote digital transactions in the Philippines, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) have rolled out the Paleng-QR PH initiative in Carmona, Cavite, in cooperation with GCash, the country’s leading mobile wallet.
Under the Paleng-QR PH, vendors, and sellers in Carmona Public Market are encouraged to transact using digital payment platforms such as GCash using QR Codes. To encourage more people to use digital platforms, Carmona Mayor Dahlia Loyola herself used GCash to pay for food items at the Carmona Public market.
“Thanks to BSP, DILG, GCash, and the hard work of our local government unit, the citizens of Carmona City can now enjoy the many benefits of cashless payments. We are honored to welcome the expansion of Paleng-QR PH in the city as we are on track to make Carmona a digital-ready and financially inclusive city,” Loyola said.
Carmona is the first municipality in the CALABARZON region to adopt cashless payments in its public markets. The launch of PalengQR is part of Carmona LGU’s thrust toward digitization in order to provide its constituents with a safer, and more convenient transaction.
GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon believes that the PalengQR rollout in Carmona is a significant move as Cavite is part of the largest region in the Philippines.
“The Southern Tagalog can already be considered as an extension of Metro Manila. In just a short span of time, it has become a highly urbanized region and is now home to those working in the capital. Which is why we at GCash would like to extend our safe, fast and convenient digital payment solutions to the CALABARZON region. This of course is inline with our vision of a more financially inclusive society and it starts here in Carmona,” Sazon said.
In addition, more vendors in the city can now be onboarded as a GCash Pera Outlet (PO) partner. This feature on the app allows small merchants to earn extra income and grow their businesses by offering customers in the community convenient access to various GCash services such as Cash-in, Cash-out, Pay Bills, and Send Money. Caviteños can also access the GCash GTreat booths at the Public Market for a safer and more convenient cashless experience.
Referring to the city’s goal to improve the lives of residents through digitization, vice mayor Cesar Ines Jr. also said, “We believe that this is the way to move forward and make Carmona a ‘digital smart’ city. We are in full support of BSP, DILG, and GCash on this initiative.”
City treasurer Edwina Ledesma also noted that, “On our part as LGU, it will be easier to provide assistance and other financial benefits directly to our constituents. We are grateful to BSP, DILG, and GCash for this partnership as it is our priority to give residents easier and safer transactions for their everyday needs.”
Driven by its shared vision of “Finance for All”, GCash, BSP, and DILG have on-boarded thousands of vendors and tricycle drivers for the PalengQR initiative in various public markets nationwide including the Baguio City Public Market, Bangkerohan Public Market in Davao City, Dao Public Market in Tagbilaran City, Pasig City Mega Market, Antipolo Market, Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (AMTODA), Camiling Public Market in Tarlac, Naga Public Market, Lapu-Lapu Public Market, all of which now accepts GCash cashless payments using QR codes.
With the rapid adoption of mobile wallets, GCash also continues to remind its users to be extra vigilant when making transactions on the app and reminds users to never share their MPIN or OTP, as well as to never click links outside the GCash app, especially from unknown senders or websites.
To report scams and fraudulent activities, visit the official GCash Help Center at help.gcash.com/hc/en-us or message Gigi on the website and type, “I want to report a scam.” GCash will never send private messages to ask for personal information, especially the MPIN and One-Time Pin (OTP). Customers can also reach out to the official GCash hotline 2882 for queries and other concerns.
Together with its partners, GCash continues to work for a future where financial services are accessible to every Filipino, especially the unbanked sector to make their lives better everyday.
In Photo (L-R): Dr. Emmillie Joy B. Mejia (Dean of Nursing, Mapúa, Sean Zantua (Healthway Medical Network Chief Human Resource Officer), Jimmy Ysmael (Healthway Medical Network President and CEO), Paolo Borromeo (President and CEO of Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health)), Dr. Malaya P. Santos (Dean of School of Health Sciences, Mapúa), Dr Reynaldo B. Vea (President and CEO, Mapúa), Alfredo Ayala (President, iPeople), Dr Bonifacio T. Doma Jr. (EVP for International Alliance & Cintana Partnership Executive Director, Mapúa), and Justin Fabia (Country Manager – Philippines, Cintana Education).
Manila, Philippines – Mapúa University partners with Arizona State University (ASU) for School for Health Sciences. This was announced at the official launch event held June 6, 2023 at the Mapúa University Makati Campus. The event also served as an announcement of Mapúa University’s partnership with the Ayala-owned AC Health.
The School for Health Sciences is part of Mapúa’s commitment to providing a world-class education that helps graduates succeed in their fields and serve society. “Education is part of nation-building: we prepare the next generation to do better and bigger things and create impact,” said Dr. Reynaldo Vea, President of Mapúa University. “By venturing into Health Sciences, we hope to significantly contribute to the development of the Philippine health sector, both in clinical practice and research.”
Before joining the university, Dr. Malaya Santos, Mapúa’s Dean of the School of Health Sciences, dedicated much of her career to public health and research. “Health has a huge impact on quality of life and economic growth. Even from the perspective of personal impact on a family, the average Filipino is just one catastrophic disease away from poverty,” she said. “Our goal is to make healthcare more accessible and give our graduates the skills and mindset for a more global and digital healthcare industry.”
Immersive and advanced facilities for practice-ready graduates
Mapúa University has invested in state-of-the-art simulation tools and integrated training to develop practice-ready healthcare graduates.
Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, Head of Medicine & Health of Cintana Education, explains the simulation experiences further. “We have human structure and functional labs. The professor does an introduction, and then students go to different stations with different learning scenarios. For example, the first station may be an anatomical model, the next station is the first MRI or pet scan, the third will have curated videos from ASU that show brain dysfunction, and the fourth will have virtual reality goggles that show the brain in 3D. It is a very immersive experience, and immersion leads to deeper learning and retention.”
Mapúa will also have clinical simulation laboratories with hi-fidelity mannequins, robotics, virtual dissection tables, body projections, and “standardized patients” who are patient-actors.
As for clinical rotations and internships, Mapúa has partnered with Mandaluyong City Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Ospital ng Makati, and St. Clare Medical Center. The new partnership with AC Health will also allow Mapúa’s students to train in Healthway Medical Network – AC Health’s clinics and hospitals group consisting of 12 outpatient centers, 4 general hospitals, and the soon-to-open Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, the first of its kind in the country.
The integrated teaching simulation models will recreate authentic hospital, out-patient, and community scenarios and enable them to gain confidence and experience even before they meet their first patients. “It trains the graduates to be ready-to-practice and the first choice for employment while providing a delightful learning environment,” says Dr. Francisco.
Students from the different courses will share the multi-functional laboratories and simulation spaces, which encourages meaningful interaction and collaboration. “This will help build the mindset for more inter-professional and team-based health service delivery,” said Dr. Malaya.
AC Health Partnership
At the event, Mapúa University also announced its partnership with AC Health through its hospitals and clinics group, the Healthway Medical Network (HMN). Leveraging its integrated network of hospitals and clinics nationwide, HMN can enable Mapúa School of Health Sciences to provide enhanced experiential learning opportunities for its students through clinical rotations, internships, and other immersive strategies for active learning. The group will also provide scholarships and allow the students to explore career opportunities in the different Healthway QualiMed hospitals and Healthway Multispecialty Centers immediately after graduation.
“The pandemic exposed several gaps in our healthcare system, including the need to build a more resilient and sufficient health workforce. Addressing this requires strengthening the skills of future healthcare professionals through education. Today, I laud the collaboration between Mapúa School of Health Sciences and the Arizona State University, leaders in quality education, as they launch new Health Sciences programs to help narrow this gap. We at AC Health, through our Healthway Medical Network group, are proud partners and look forward to offering training initiatives and scholarship programs that can further equip the next generation of healthcare professionals. Together, we can rebuild our healthcare system and make our vision of improved healthcare for all a reality.” Paolo F. Borromeo, AC Health President and CEO, added.
Global Education
Through the Global Classroom, students can participate in classes involving professors from Arizona State University and ASU-Cintana Alliance’s universities. They can also join internships and participate in international exchange programs and research projects.
Working with professors and classmates from around the world also provides them with the soft skills for a global workplace: communication, collaboration, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to lead and manage teams worldwide. “These will all be success factors in the 21st century,” said Dr. Malaya. “Our educational system has reached a point where technical skills are assured, so the global mindset is what gives that competitive edge.”
Digital Mastery
“Digital technology has permeated everything, and it is important for educators to teach digital literacy—how to be comfortable with the technology and how to curate and evaluate the accuracy of the information critically,” said Dr. Malaya. She adds that this is one of the strongest suits of Mapúa because of its long track record in Engineering and IT.
For the Health Sciences students in particular, digital literacy will also prepare them for specific situations like managing electronic patient records to communicate and connect with patients while providing telemedicine—or what Dr. Malaya described as developing “webside manners” – a virtual equivalent of bedside manner in healthcare in addition to the traditional bedside manners.
Preparation for a global career
“As we celebrate 100 years of Mapúa, we remain focused on ensuring that our students have the agency to pursue their careers wherever they want. This collaboration with ASU is a testament to our commitment to providing our students with a quality education at par with world standards,” said Dr. Vea.
The Mapúa Health Sciences degree programs include BS Biology, BS Psychology, BS Medical Technology, AB Psychology, and BS Nursing (waiting approval from CHED) in the Mapúa Makati campus. There are also plans to introduce nursing, medicine, and other health professions in the near future.
Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated return to the Philippines after three years. Taking place from June 23 to July 3, 2023, at a brand new location, the picturesque PICC Forum Tent in Pasay, the Big Bad Wolf “Bad Does Good” Book Sale invites book lovers to dive into a literary adventure filled with ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ promotions, exclusive titles and a book shopping haven to enjoy. Best of all, entrance to the Book Sale is absolutely FREE!
UNBELIEVABLE Retail Experience
This year, to deliver an unforgettable experience for patrons, Big Bad Wolf Books will offer an ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ host of goodies that will wow customers with unbeatable prices on select books. Visitors can discover their favorite books at prices as low as PhP20, allowing them to stock up on an extensive range of genres without breaking the bank. What’s more, new ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ titles will be released DAILY, enticing visitors to visit PICC Forum Tent every day to take advantage of these incredible offers.
“We are thrilled to be returning to the Philippines after three years,” says Jacqeuline Ng, co-founder of Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. “Our return is a testament to the overwhelming support and passion for books that Filipinos have shown. We are bringing an unmatched collection of books at unbelievably affordable prices that will leave book lovers astounded. We are also very happy to again have the support of the Intellectual Property of the Philippines in our Book Sale this year. ”
To unlock these ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ promotions, visitors only need to scan and register for a FREE membership through the provided QR code prior to entering the Sale. And by registering, visitors will gain access to exclusive offers and deals when they checkout through the user-friendly web app.
“We’re incredibly excited to host this year’s Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at the PICC Forum Tent. It’s such a beautiful venue that truly captures the imagination with its picturesque surroundings and inviting atmosphere,“ says Carolyn Chuaying, Big Bad Wolf’s Philippine partner. “I also highly recommend that visitors scan to register for the best experience and to take advantage of all the available discounts and promotions.”
Exciting Partnership
To further enhance the readers’ experience, Big Bad Wolf is proud to announce the addition of the country’s second-largest private bank, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank), as its first and official bank partner. Visitors can expect special offers and discounts when using their Metrobank credit and debit cards during the event, making it even more rewarding to explore the vast collection of books:
0% installment – For a minimum purchase of P3,000, Metrobank credit cardholders can avail of 0% installment for 3 months.
Metrobank Exclusive Payment Lanes – Metrobank cardholders will enjoy dedicated lanes during the Sale
Up to 10% cashback – Purchases of P5,000 with Metrobank credit cards can score up to 10% cashback.
Metrobank VIP Lounge – Qualified World, Platinum Mastercard and Travel PlatinumVisa cardholders will have exclusive access to a special lounge where they can sit and spend time reading their latest book haul
“Metrobank is excited to be part of Big Bad Wolf’s return to the Philippines after three years as its official bank partner. We believe in the power of literacy and the transformative impact of books. This tie-up allows us to inspire a reading culture among Filipinos that will help shape minds of the future,” said Gail Male, Metrobank Senior Vice President and Cards, Personal Loans, and Digital Channels Head.
On top of this, Male said: “Metrobank cardholders are definitely in for a rewarding and seamless book shopping experience filled with discounts, cashback, and special offers.”
Those who are interested in getting a Metrobank credit card can apply for one at the special booth located at the event or visit https://apply.metrobank.com.ph/creditcard before the event to possibly enjoy the exclusive Metrobank benefits. Qualified applicants can get either zero annual fees or 120,000 welcome rewards points for select cards and amounts of accumulated spend.
So, mark your calendars for the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, where over 2 million books await book lovers. The sale will run daily from June 23 to July 3, 2023 (10:00 AM to 1:00 AM), providing an extensive selection for visitors to explore. The new venue, the stunning PICC Forum Tent in Pasay, provides a beautiful backdrop for this literary extravaganza.
With ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ prices, exclusive titles, and an enchanting atmosphere, this event promises to be the ultimate destination for book enthusiasts and families alike.
(From left to right) Oxana Pastushenko (Chief Marketing Officer, HOYA Vision Care); Alexandre Montague (Chief Executive Officer, HOYA Vision Care); Ananda Wibowo (Managing Director); and0 Eleonor Gonzales (Commercial Director, HOYA Lens Philippines Inc.) during the media roundtable.
MANILA, Philippines, 08 June 2023— Genetics, prolonged near-work activities, and lack of outdoor time are just some of the known risk factors that may lead to a greater likelihood of myopia in children. In the Philippines where approximately 30% of the population are children between the ages of 6-18 years old, an estimated 8 million Filipino children may suffer from myopia.
In an effort to battle progressive visual impairments that significantly impact children’s quality of life, academic achievements and overall long-term eye health, HOYA Vision Care pioneers eye care solutions through its advanced and innovative product lines. The global optical and healthcare solutions company recently hosted a roundtable discussion last June 7, 2023, in Makati City to share its knowledge and expertise in myopia control amongst children through the help of its 6-year clinical study,, that was recently presented at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) 2022 conference in Denver, Colorado in the U.S.
For over 60 years, HOYA Vision Care has been a passionate and global leader in optical technology innovation. As a manufacturer of high quality, high performing eyeglass lenses, HOYA continuously aims to bring the best possible vision care solutions to Eye Care Professionals and their patients around the world. In 2018, the company proudly rolled out its innovative and evidence-based myopia management solution with its research partner, the Centre for Myopia Research at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University4,5.
“Through intensive research on myopia that is aligned with the aggressive development of our product offerings, HOYA aims to be at the forefront of myopia management as we remain steadfast in our commitment to producing innovative eye care solutions that aim to deliver optimal results for all our patients,” shares HOYA Vision Care CEO Alexandre Montague.
Combating Myopia in the Philippines
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition wherein individuals can see objects clearly up close but may appear blurred further away. Currently, global data have shown that over 22.9% of the world population have myopia with 2.7% having high myopia. It is predicted to increase to 49.8% and 9.8% of which is high myopia by 20504..
Philippine Eye Research Institute study has shown that Filipino children are most likely to be affected by visual impairment, which doubles when they reach adolescence. As students massively transitioned to the digital platform brought about by the pandemic, research has shown that children who use screens for greater than three hours per day are almost four times more likely to be myopic compared to those spending one hour on screens per day1.
While myopia is irreversible and incurable which can lead to an increased risk of having vision-threatening conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment if it is left unaddressed, the condition can be managed through early intervention and regular consultations with eye care practitioners who are equipped to provide professional advice in finding the right myopia management options. Moreover, the Philippine government constantly pushes for regular and comprehensive eye screening among kindergarten students through the National Vision Screening Program (NVSP) which was mandated in 2019.
These efforts are aligned with HOYA’s commitment to constantly provide innovative solutions to cater to the ever-changing needs of its patients. During the discussion, Oxana Pastushenko talks about HOYA’s award-winning product, MiYOSMART, which are spectacle lenses that correct the visual defect using the revolutionary D.I.M.S. (Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments) technology, proven to slow down myopia progression by 60%12,13
“While we cannot control factors that may lead to rapid myopia progression in children, we are keen to ensure that innovative, non-invasive myopia management options are accessible to parents as MiYOSMART becomes available in the Philippines. Children’s vision is worth protecting, alongside the upcoming launch of MiYOSMART, HOYA will also be initiating an awareness campaign aimed at parents, educating them on the risks of myopia towards long-term eye health and the impact of poor eyesight on academic performance. It is important for parents to monitor their children’s eyesight by having regular eye checks so as not to deprive children from the right to see clearly. Let us act now, and give them more opportunity tomorrow”. concludes Montague.
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