Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year as it brings forth a season of fun gatherings, anticipated reunions, and festive spirits. Between the hustle and bustle of the season and the more mundane moments, capturing the true holiday spirit is simpler than we think.

Jollibee launches a campaign that shows how it can transform everyday situations into Christmas, because of the joy that it brings to people. Its heartwarming video captures the moment when unsuspecting individuals step into what appears to be a standard Christmas-themed photo booth, only to discover an extraordinary surprise!



“At Jollibee, we believe that Christmas is about the joy that we share with our loved ones,” said Mari Aldecoa, Assistant Vice President. “This season, we hope that Jollibee can once again help in making every gathering more enjoyable and memorable. Together, let’s make this Christmas a wonderful one with Jollibee Joy.”

From the lovable mascot to the delicious food, Jollibee contributes to everyday joy, giving Filipinos a great experience each time. Jollibee consistently delivers with its best-selling Crispylicious, Juicylicious Chickenjoy; Sweet-Sarap Jolly Spaghetti; Langhap-Sarap Yumburger; and Beefy-Saucy Linamnam Ulam Burger Steak, and all your other Jollibee favorites.

Elevate everyday moments and make your Christmas season truly special with Jollibee joy. For all the latest updates, make sure to like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Smart Home solutions and AI offer a variety of benefits to consumers, including convenience, comfort, productivity, and security. These breakthroughs are seen to further diversify and continuously impact people’s lives standard of living.

As access to Smart Home technology and AI applications increasingly becomes universal, consumer education on responsible use gains greater importance. Consumers need to understand these technologies, particularly digital solutions that connect into their homes and interact with their families and loved ones.

Recognizing its role in enabling families to foster meaningful connections at home and in line with its commitment to do business responsibly, PLDT held a session called “Family Perspectives on Smart Home and Artificial Intelligence” at this year’s Philippine Digital Convention at the Manila Marriott Hotel.

Together with PLDT Home ambassadors Edric and Joy Mendoza, industry partners Microsoft Philippines’ PR and Communications Head Josh Aquino and eufy and Anker’s Assistant Brand Manager Marinel Emeres Pascual, as well as technology advocate Ramon Isberto, PLDT Home’s Evert Miranda led conversations about the impact of Smart Home technology and AI to family life, parenting, and home security. 

The brand also talked about their 24/7 cyber security operations and highlighted the importance of responsible use of these technologies.

“As we enable access to these evolving digital solutions, our thrust at PLDT is to ensure that each connecting customer and end-user gets to fully maximize the benefits of technology, while being safe and protected from potential threats and harms online,” said Angel Redoble, First Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at PLDT.

This session aligns with the PLDT Group’s agenda for Sustainability, particularly supporting focus areas on digital inclusion, cyber security, customer welfare, and child protection.

“Sustainability for PLDT is not just about managing our environmental impact and taking action on climate, it is also about staying true to our purpose of delivering meaningful connections to our customers, helping narrow the digital divide among Filipinos, and doing business responsibly,” said Melissa Vergel de Dios, First Vice President, Chief Sustainability Officer, and Head of Investor Relations at PLDT.

“A digital and sustainable future is one that makes use of technology to enhance our way of living, fosters responsible use of our shared natural and digital resources, and thrives on collaboration among generations and across sectors,” she added.

The PLDT Group continues to enable the transformation of the Philippines into a Smart Nation, by building smart cities and starting with one smart home at a time.

"Every quarter, we look forward to Groceries Day – it's our special way of rewarding our loyal shoppers. By teaming up with top brands and providing irresistible deals, we aim to make grocery shopping not just convenient but also budget-friendly," shares Danielle Eleazar, Head of Marketing at foodpanda Philippines.

This time around, shoppers can bag groceries at discounts reaching up to 70%. Plus, there's an extra treat – an additional P300 off using the code: GROCERDAY. With an array of popular brands joining the sale, including Nivea, PepsiCo, URC, and Johnson & Johnson, there's something for everyone. Be it skincare products from Nivea or refreshing beverages from PepsiCo, the Groceries Day offers the best of the best.

"Our vision with Groceries Day is twofold. Firstly, we want to introduce the seamless and budget-friendly shopping experience of foodpanda to new users. And secondly, we want to embed a habit of quarterly bulk-shopping among our regulars. After all, who doesn't love big savings?" emphasizes Eleazar.

“Every Groceries Day is more than just a sale; it’s an event, a celebration of smart shopping. In the age of instant gratification, we bring you an instant solution to your grocery woes. No long queues, no crowded aisles, just pure shopping bliss from the comfort of your home," Eleazar further adds.

Whether you're a savvy shopper, a busy parent, or someone looking for great deals, the Groceries Day sale is tailored for all. So, buckle up and get ready to fill your carts with a wide variety of quality products at unbeatable prices.

Download the foodpanda app now and order your groceries from October 20-22, 2023 to enjoy the exciting offers and exclusive discounts from this ultimate grocery shopping spree. Don't miss out!

For more information about foodpanda and the incredible offers available, visit the official website at https://www.foodpanda.ph. Also like and follow the official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok and Youtube.

From left to right: Jaynard Lamarca, National Training Head; Connie Ann Tapia, Gaisano Mall of Davao Regional Leasing Manager; Johnny Ong, Owner of Mikrocell Davao; Steven Yan, GTM Manager; Pao Oga, PR Manager; Karla Nangcas, Trade Marketing Manager

HONOR, the leading global tech provider of smart devices, unveils its HONOR Experience Store at 3rd level of Gaisano Mall of Davao.

“We are overjoyed because starting today, Davaoeños can finally experience the HONOR’s powerful devices, which they have been looking forward to check out and avail in store. Truth be told, this is the first of the many stores to be opened, and expect more stores to be unveiled here in Davao and other key areas of Mindanao in the months to come,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

The event was officiated by HONOR Philippines’ GTM Manager, Steven Yan, PR Manager Pao Oga, National Training Head Jaynard Lamarca; Karla Nangcas, Trade Marketing Manager, along with Mr. Johny Ong of MikroCell Davao. The event was attended by top Davao publications, both from print, and online, along with top Davao content creators.

The recently launched powerful HONOR devices, HONOR 90 5G and its successor HONOR 90 5G Lite, were highlighted and reintroduced to consumers and media guests. HONOR fans and mall-goer consumers participated in the Guess The Phone Challenge, where they had the chance to win special prizes from HONOR.

Mall-goers and HONOR fans got crazed about the newest HONOR Experience Store and the latest devces.

Let’s Make it Happen this 10.10

This HONOR 10.10 Sale, you can get to over Php 10,000 discount on HONOR products, just head on to Shopee (bit.ly/HONORShopeeShine99), Lazada (bit.ly/HONORLazadaShine99), and TikTok (bit.ly/HONORTikTokShine99) from October 10 to 15, 2023!

Get HONOR MagicBook X14 from Php 34,990 to just Php 22,403 still with a FREE Premium HONOR bag worth Php 2,000. Crowd-favorite HONOR 70 5G is also getting a slash from Php 26,990 to just Php 18,990! HONOR X Series is also up for grabs with a hefty discount too!

HONOR X9 will be on sale for Php 8,490 from its Php 14,990 price tag. HONOR X8 is available with Php 6,500 less, now only Php 6,490. HONOR X7 and HONOR X6 will also be up for grabs for only Php 5,990 and Php 5,490, respectively.

HONOR’s most powerful hero smartphone HONOR 90 5G is also getting a price drop, now only at Php 23,990. And the recently-launched HONOR 90 Lite 5G, HONOR X6a, HONOR X5 Plus, and HONOR Pad X6 will also come at a discounted price.

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

JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING is a customer-participation project that connects the “power of clothing” with actions for a more sustainable world. Items for the 2023 Fall/Winter collection are the Doraemon Sustainability Mode Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket, and the Doraemon Sustainability Mode Toy, both made of 100% recycled polyester fabric. The Full-Zip Jacket features a small Doraemon Sustainability Mode motif on the chest, and the Toy is UNIQLO’s first plush toy made from fluffy yarn fleece material. This will be the final Doraemon Sustainability Mode collection.

For every purchase of products eligible for the campaign, which include Doraemon Sustainability Mode items and other fleece items made from recycled polyester, Fast Retailing will donate US$1 to UNESCO to support its international initiative to reduce ocean garbage, which includes educational programs to raise awareness of marine debris issues.*

* The maximum donation amount is US$1.5 million (approx. ¥200 million). Donations will be made by UNIQLO parent company Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.

Doraemon Sustainability Mode Products

Launch Date: October 6, 2023 (Friday)

Items: 

Doraemon Sustainability Mode Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket 1 Design Php 1,490 

Doraemon Sustainability Mode KIDS Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket 1 Design Php 990 

Doraemon Sustainability Mode Toy 1 Design Php 990

Website: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/en/contents/sustainability/jointpoc/

See the special website for other JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING products eligible for donations.

Special website to learn about ocean garbage

The JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING special website contains content to learn about ocean garbage. Continuing from the previous season, the site features interviews with experts, videos about marine debris issues, and advice for reducing plastic waste in our everyday lives. The site also includes reports on how donations made through the JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING project since 2022 (approximately US$ 3 million) have so far been utilized.

About Doraemon Sustainability Mode

Beloved for more than 50 years, the cat-type robot Doraemon is a worldwide popular manga and anime character from the 22nd century. Always kind and ready to help, Doraemon pulls all sorts of secret gadgets out of his fourth-dimensional pocket to solve problems throughout his many adventures. In Sustainability Mode, Doraemon joined UNIQLO as a global sustainability ambassador, to show us how sustainable steps can be our secret gadgets to help transform the world into a better place for all.

UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)

UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It contributes to peace and security by promoting international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, communication, and information. UNESCO promotes knowledge sharing and the free flow of ideas to accelerate mutual understanding and a more perfect knowledge of each other's lives. UNESCO's programs contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in the 2030 Agenda, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015. https://www.unesco.org/en

Over 10% or 190 million women and girls of reproductive age globally are affected by severe pain associated with endometriosis, a painful gynecological disease in which the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, and this burden affects more women in Asia. Yet misconceptions about endometriosis, such as extreme period pain, are something women still view as part of the norm– resulting in prolonged pain and delayed treatment.

Bayer Philippines, in collaboration with its partners from the Society of Endometriosis and Uterine Disorders (SEUD) and the Philippine Society for Reproductive Medicine (PRSM), calls for more conversations of care and action to eliminate pain associated with endometriosis by supporting the Asian Congress on Endometriosis (ACE) in the Philippines this year.

OB-GYNE and Asian Congress on Endometriosis 2023 Congress President Dr. Angela Aguilar shared during the Endometriosis Masterclass that prevalence rates of the disease are reportedly higher in Asia compared to other continents.

According to Dr. Angela Aguilar, OB-GYNE and ACE 2023 Congress President, these misconceptions create more barriers on why women do not consult their doctors. “There is an information gap associated with endometriosis and women continue to suffer in silence brought about by debilitating pain,” she said. “This affects their daily activities, their productivity suffers at work and school– diminishing their quality of life.”

Importance of Early Diagnosis

“Endometriosis sometimes takes several years to be diagnosed, but with the Asia Consensus guidelines, it allows us to help HCPs tackle endometriosis by improving diagnosis and treatment standards of the condition in Asia, enabling them to create the best outcomes for their patients,” said Dr. Catherine Donovan, Head of Medical Affairs Asia-Pacific, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Asia-Pacific.

During the Asian Congress on Endometriosis 2023, Dr. Catherine Donovan, Head of Medical Affairs Asia-Pacific, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Asia-Pacific, emphasized that HCPs should initiate conversations of care among their patients for early detection of endometriosis.

The consensus guideline “Clinical Diagnosis and Early Medical Management for Endometriosis: Consensus for Asia” details the recommended practices for caring for women with endometriosis. It emphasizes the role of non-invasive procedures in early diagnosis and treatment to allow for patient-centered care.

In an endometriosis masterclass held at the Marriott Manila Hotel, Bayer emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for conversations on endometriosis to provide a multidimensional approach on patient care.

Seek medical help

Women should realize that pelvic pain accompanying periods are not normal. They should seek help to evaluate the cause of this pain. According to Dr. Aguilar, patients may undergo pelvic examination and imaging as appropriate. Pelvic pain may be due to endometriosis and experts in the field can discern if this is present.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition, but there are ways of managing the pain and preserving the woman's fertility as long as it is discovered early and handled competently. “Many patients respond well to medication and go back to their lifestyle with little to no pain”, she added.

Working with multi sectoral partners and joining in the ACE 2023 in the Philippines is part of Bayer’s core commitment in advancing innovative solutions for women’s healthcare. With its recently launched Bayer For Her: Conversations of Care campaign, Bayer aims to raise awareness on women’s health by normalizing discussions on what is considered taboo topics in the country such as menstrual issues and endometriosis.

To help more women make informed choices about their own bodies and seek expert advice on reproductive health, Bayer For Her has an ongoing series of free pop-up consultation clinics at selected Mercury Drug, Southstar Drug, Rose Pharmacy, and Watsons until October 2023.

For more information about the free consultation clinics or signs and symptoms of endometriosis, visit Bayer Philippines’ Ask Mara Facebook page.

Manila Prince Hotel, a premier hotel nestled in the heart of the City of Manila, is excited to announce its latest initiative to cater to the needs of all guests. The hotel is delighted to open its doors to registered pet cats and dogs, ensuring that their stay is as comfortable as that of their fur-parents. This step reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality and an inclusive experience that guarantees no family member is left out. 

Starting 01 October 2023, guests can book pet-friendly rooms that are thoughtfully equipped to cater to their furry friends. These rooms feature a range of amenities including plush pet bedding, towel, and feeding bowls, kitty litter trays, and more. Protocols are in place to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene, assuring a safe and pleasant experience for all. 

Beyond the enhanced room facilities, Manila Prince Hotel is also offering additional services tailored exclusively for its VIP (Very Important Pet) guests. This includes the provision of a dedicated pet park located at the al fresco area of the hotel. This spacious outdoor area allows furry guests to stretch their legs and enjoy outdoor playtime. 

“Our decision to embrace a pet-friendly approach aligns with our commitment to cater to the evolving needs of our guests who consider their furry companions as integral family members,” says Marvin Kim Tan, Manila Prince Hotel’s director of sales and marketing. 

For reservations or for more information about our pet-friendly policy, call +63 2 53282222, email info@manilaprince.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.

Dragon Court, the renowned Chinese restaurant at Manila Prince Hotel, officially reopened its doors on September 27, 2023. The occasion was celebrated with lively Dragon and Lion dance performances alongside an inaugural lunch that brought together esteemed members of the media, hotel executives, and loyal patrons.

The intimate gathering showcased the restaurant’s ambiance and culinary offerings. Guests were treated to the delectable Mid-Autumn set menu – a selection of traditional Chinese dishes such as Hakaw, Siomai, Stir-Fried Beef in Oyster Sauce, Salt and Pepper Spareribs, and Yang Chow Rice.

 

 

Dragon Court showcases an interior reminiscent of golden Chinese design. It boasts comfortable seating, elegant décor, and warm lighting that together create an inviting ambiance. For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, the restaurant offers five (5) private dining rooms.

 

The reopening of Dragon Court marks a significant milestone for Manila Prince Hotel – showing the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional dining experience to its patrons. “We are thrilled to welcome our valued guests back to Dragon Court. Our commitment to serving traditional Chinese cuisine remains,” shared Ester Joy Yap, director of food & beverage.

Dragon Court is open for lunch from 11am to 3pm and dinner from 6pm to 10pm, from Mondays to Sundays.

For inquiries and reservations, call +632 5328 2222, email fnb@manilaprince.com, or visit www.manilaprince.com.

With the local IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry experiencing a “ talent demand-supply gap,” which according to a study by Kearney might grow to 300,000–400,000 by 2028 if left unchecked, Capital One Philippines reiterates its strong commitment to and maintains high importance for the future of the next generation through education. By advocating transformative education, the company seeks to address the demand-supply challenges within the IT-BPM industry.

Through its community education initiative, Contact Center Readiness Program (CCRP), a nine-month program in partnership with Tuloy Foundation, Capital One Philippines teaches students basic proficiency and other capabilities needed for entry-level positions in the IT-BPM industry.

JP Paperman and Kaneth Santiago of Capital One Philippines shared their thoughts on the industry talent gap, on education, and how the CCRP can help address this issue.

On addressing the talent gap

Over the years, the Philippine IT-BPM industry has grown exponentially - attributed to top notch customer service and hospitality Filipinos are known for.

Capital One Philippines’ Head of Operations, JP Paperman says, “The Philippines is a hub for customer experience due to its strong foundation that translates well in our industry. The country's proficiency in English is noteworthy, and we must continue investing in it. To ensure growth, we must identify the opportunities at a global scale and work towards achieving them.”

“Like many others, I naturally gravitate towards integrating the benefits of emerging and evolving technology seamlessly into the passion and Malasakit that we already have. By doing that transformation, incorporating technology with the heart will put us in a place where there is no other footprint in the world that will compete with our workforce regarding future readiness,” he added.

Capital One Philippines’ Director for Strategy and Community, Kaneth Santiago believes that we must find ways to make entry to the IT-BPM industry easier for new hires by incorporating soft skills in the current curriculum. “Education equips us with skill sets to prepare us to join the workforce, but it can be a disservice to future employees if they have to go through the same struggles we did.”

“Take, for instance, my experience in a contact center that dealt with American culture. Understanding customer queries, responses, and terminologies was a challenge. It was crucial to learn how to navigate through these challenges, including grasping the varying concepts of regions like the US, UK, or Australia. Education transformation does not require a complete overhaul. Instead, we can enhance it by integrating skills required in the workplace with the current education system. The focus should be on developing communication, business, and financial skills along with soft skills like persuasion, and de-escalation. Providing access to these skills will enable the youth to succeed in their workplace quickly.”

On the impact of the CCRP

The Contact Center Readiness Program is one of the flagship social investment programs of Capital One Philippines, strengthening its commitment to tap and maximize Filipino talent and generate more job opportunities for the industry.

Kaneth believes that the CCRP can help transform and bridge the gap between the supply and the demand or need of the organization and the (IT-BPM) industry. “One important goal to focus on is establishing clear criteria for hiring individuals in the contact center industry. Imagine a future where all contact centers can employ individuals with a CCRP certification, even if they lack BPO or contact center experience or a college degree. As a result, this would expand the talent pool and encourage more people to consider this field.”

She adds, “In my opinion, democratizing the program is crucial. The government and more organizations can help make it more accessible across the country beyond just the metro areas. Doing so would allow more youths to receive training and become part of the contact center industry in a shorter period.”

For JP, integrating the CCRP into their plans for the future is something organizations should consider. “Through the CCRP, we offer opportunities to highly motivated and talented individuals who require a unique form of investment early on to help them unlock their potential. By doing so, we gain access to gifted individuals, which, in turn, becomes a return of investment. CCRP is an excellent example of how this concept of “train and retain” works, as it has helped us discover some genuinely exceptional gems of talent.”

Kaneth adds, “We invite contact centers, IT-BPM shareholders, the academe, and the government to support the CCRP and help shape the next generation of workers for the industry’s continued growth.”

Advocating for Education

Capital One Philippines strives to bring its values of Excellence and Doing the Right Thing, and Investing For Good to life in everything it does. The organization believes that by investing in the community, businesses can establish vibrant neighborhoods and nurture an inclusive society. Capital One Philippines is committed and determined to enable genuine transformation and progress by investing in the future of the Filipinos through the IT-BPM industry and their work in the CCRP.

You guessed it right—Filipino multimedia superstar Jessy Mendiola is yoboo’s newest brand ambassador!

Having built a thriving career in the entertainment industry through the years, the all-around actress, model, and vlogger is now also a loving wife and supermom. She and her husband, Filipino-American TV personality Luis Manzano, welcomed their beautiful daughter Isabella Rose into the world in December 2022.

“We are so happy to have Jessy join the yoboo family, as she navigates through the joys and challenges of motherhood,” said Chinen Rina, Pediatrician and Founder of yoboo. “The love and care she gives Isabella Rose is unconditional, and we want to give her as much support as we can through our baby skincare products. Our campaign #yobooBestie represents how a mother is also the best friend of her child and will always strive towards what’s best for them—and this commitment is something that yoboo deeply respects and cares about.”

The exciting news was recently announced on yoboo Philippines’ Facebook and Instagram pages. “It’s a wonderful honor to be part of a brand that takes excellent care of Isabella Rose’s skincare needs and wellbeing,” Jessy shared. “A baby’s skin is so fragile and delicate, and really needs special attention through a consistent skincare routine. yoboo gives me this assurance through its top-quality products, so that I can focus on bonding with my daughter and letting her enjoy life with healthy and resilient skin.”

Committed to helping every family raise children in a relaxed and scientific manner, the Japanese-based brand provides expertly crafted skincare products for babies using natural plant extracts and biomimetic essence to awaken the skin’s intrinsic vitality. yoboo’s complete range of products can help nurture the baby’s skin in any environment, whether it’s to protect it from the sun, soothe it from any discomfort or sensitivity, or sustain its moisture after a bath. Its all-natural and easily absorbed formulas reject unnecessary additives, preservatives, and allergens and follow strict quality standards for the parent’s peace of mind.

To learn more about the ultimate baby care experience, visit yoboo Philippines’ official Facebook (https://tinyurl.com/2dw82pjt) and Instagram (@yoboo.philippines) Pages, or shop in their official stores in Lazada (https://tinyurl.com/3vmk8ju9) and Shopee (https://tinyurl.com/3zhthyjx).