Eduk-Aksyon : The Great Equalizer

In a world where opportunities often favor the privileged few, Jean Henri Lhuillier, Consul General of San Marino and President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier, stands as a beacon of hope for a more equitable society. His steadfast belief in the transformative power of education is embodied in his mantra, "Always Love Schooling," a testament to his conviction that education serves as the great equalizer in society.

Lhuillier's commitment to bridging the gap in the Philippines led to the inception of "San Marino Cares: Fun Learning through Eduk-Aksyon," an initiative aimed at empowering marginalized communities. Launched at A Home for the Angels, an organization dedicated to neglected children in Manila, the program offers reading and comprehension classes using an award-winning book on adoption. By equipping children with knowledge and skills, Lhuillier endeavors to break the cycle of inequality and pave the way for a brighter future.

Education, for Lhuillier, is more than just a means of acquiring knowledge; it is a catalyst for social change. Through initiatives like "San Marino Cares," he seeks to create a society where equal opportunities abound. Recognizing the widening gap between the rich and the poor, Lhuillier champions education as the cornerstone of progress, offering hope to those in marginalized communities.

"Education is the great equalizer, and through initiatives like 'San Marino Cares,' we are dedicated to empowering marginalized communities. By providing children with the tools they need to succeed, we aim to break the cycle of inequality and create a brighter future for all." - Jean Henri Lhuillier

In a country where access to quality education remains a challenge, Lhuillier's efforts are paramount. By providing children with opportunities to learn and engage, he ensures that no child is left behind. Understanding that education instills not only knowledge but also confidence, he empowers individuals to shape their own destinies.

The initiative addresses a pressing issue in the Philippines: the inequality of opportunity. As educational disparities persist, so do unequal circumstances and opportunities. Lhuillier recognizes that education is not only a fundamental human right but also a powerful tool for social mobility and change.

For many Filipino children, education represents more than just a pathway to success—it is a lifeline. By investing in education, Lhuillier invests in the future of the nation, laying the groundwork for a more just and prosperous society.

As Lhuillier continues to champion education as the great equalizer, he reminds us that every child deserves the chance to dream, to learn, and to succeed. Through his unwavering dedication and commitment, he paves the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

A Redefined UNIQLO Mall of Asia store reopens on May 17

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has lined up big things for the much-anticipated reopening of its groundbreaking SM Mall of Asia (MOA) store on May 17, 2024 at the Level 2 & 3 of Mall of Asia’s North main mall.

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The pioneer store of UNIQLO Philippines is set to deliver new experiences, lifestyle, and more

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Redefined store

UNIQLO’s original MOA store is finally set to open its doors once more after major updates. The newly revamped store comes with a bigger space and larger offerings.

The branch opened in 2012 as the global brand’s very first store in the Philippines, introducing Filipinos to UNIQLO’s stylish and functional everyday clothing. With its sprawling 1,550 square meters at that time, the store served thousands of customers in the largest mall in the country and remained as one of the go-to hubs for LifeWear.

On May 17, the all-new UNIQLO MOA store promises to be even bigger with a doubled-up floor space of over 3,000 square meters spread across two floors. Loyal and new customers alike will surely enjoy the store’s new layout and latest presentations, as the space evolves with the new lifestyles of Filipinos.

Redefined experiences

Aside from featuring a vast selection of LifeWear pieces, the all-new UNIQLO MOA store will also redefine the retail experience where in-store and online shopping comes hand-in-hand. Store-driven efforts such as same-day Click & Collect are set to give customers an integrated shopping experience with UNIQLO.

The all-new UNIQLO MOA store will also be the second store in the country to have UNIQLO Coffee and UTMe! Originally only available at UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store in Glorietta 5, UNIQLO Coffee and UTme! is coming to the MOA store to delight coffee lovers and art lovers, respectively.

UNIQLO Coffee in the Philippines presents locally sourced, high-quality coffee beans from Mt. Apo, and features goods and pastries that mix Filipino and Japanese flavors.

Meanwhile, the UTme! service lets customers customize shirts and tote bags with various designs from its library or their own creations and images. To celebrate the new opening, UNIQLO is expanding its UTme! line-up with new designs in collaboration with partners from the local community.

Redefined lifestyles

The UNIQLO MOA store offers the brand’s complete LifeWear collection for men’s, women’s, kids, and babies. The all-new store spotlights essentials that are made for all, such as, the UNIQLO Core T and UNIQLO BraTop collection. Collaboration pieces with world renowned designers and pop culture brands will also be available.

Mark your calendars on May 17 and join the eventful re-opening of the UNIQLO MOA store at Level 2 to 3 of MOA’s North main mall, sure to be filled with exciting surprises with a redefined shopping experience like no other.

To learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear, check out www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow UNIQLO Philippines on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram and TikTok.

 

Confirmed: vivo Y100 officially arrives to Philippines this April 27

Global smartphone brand, vivo, has officially announced the arrival of its latest addition to the Y Series lineup - the vivo Y100. Packed with cutting-edge features, this device boasts the fastest charging capability ever seen in the Y Series.

Scheduled for release on April 27, 2024, the vivo Y100 comes equipped with an 80W charger featuring a Super Charge Pump, ensuring lightning-fast charging times. Complementing this impressive charging speed is a sizable 5000mAh battery, providing users with long-lasting power to keep up with their busy lifestyles.

Photography enthusiasts will be delighted to discover vivo Y100's exceptional imaging system. The device features a versatile camera setup, including a 50MP main camera, a 2MP bokeh, and an 8MP selfie camera, allowing users to capture stunning photos and videos with ease.

In terms of performance, the vivo Y100 doesn't disappoint. Boasting 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB, this smartphone offers ample space for storing your favorite apps, photos, videos, and more.

Available in two stylish colors - the eye-catching photochromic Breeze Green and the timeless Crystal Black - the vivo Y100 is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

For those eager to get their hands on the vivo Y100 ahead of its official release date, the smartphone is currently available for purchase on Shopee for Php 13,499. Be sure to mark your calendars for April 27, 2024, when the official price will be announced.

Stay updated on the latest news and updates about vivo Y100 by visiting the official vivo website and following the brand on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Angel Investors Network Pushes for Advocacy and Intentionality in Empowering Filipina Entrepreneurs

Navigating the capital-raising environment is especially challenging for women. But the investing community and the startup ecosystem can benefit from a two-pronged approach: advocacy and intentionality.

Tina Di Cicco, Chairperson of MAIN’s Gender Lens Investing Committee, discussing MAIN's Gender Lens Investing strategy.

This was the statement of Tina Nepomuceno-Di Cicco, the Gender Lens Investing Committee Chairperson of Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN), the Philippine’s largest network of angel investors, in the recently concluded FoundHer Forum, organized by a Filipino-based women-led inclusion studio, Imaginable Impact at KMC One Ayala in line with Women’s Month.

 

In her keynote speech, Di Cicco highlighted that advocating for and intentionally supporting women-led businesses will encourage more women to succeed and attract and grow investments.

 

“Through advocacy, we communicate our vision and goals, as well as promote and support each other’s businesses. Intentionality, on the other hand, is when we turn our advocacy into action–it's when we put our resources into investing in women and helping make women-led businesses succeed,” Di Cicco said, sharing tips on how women can appear more investible. 

 

In addition, she noted that while the gender gap remains a pressing issue with only 2% of global venture capital funds going to women-led businesses, investments on women entrepreneurs are in fact growing in Southeast Asia with data indicating that female-led startups raised $1.41 billion in equity funding in 2023, which accounts for 18 percent of capital raised in the region. This is a 12.6 percent increase from the previous year.

 

Di Cicco also pointed out that the current trend indicates that more investors and networks are using Gender Lens Investing when considering startups to invest in and support. Gender Lens Investing (GLI) is a strategy that MAIN employs, through the support of the Australian Aid’s Investing in Women program, to maximize investment potential in women-led businesses. Through the GLI, MAIN provides extensive support to women-led startups, especially those at the early stage, in terms of capital allocation, training, and mentorship. To date, more than 40% of the startups that MAIN members have invested in are female-led.

 

“We are hearing investors prioritizing portfolio diversity, with many incorporating gender lens investing strategies. What we see across the board is a slow but steady increase in gender lens investing,” Di Cicco said, underscoring investors’ intent to address gender disparity through their investment choices.

 

“This is the time for women founders. We are being sought. We are more visible. There is no better time to be a woman than now,” Di Cicco added.

 

The FoundHer Forum is a signature event series elevating the conversation on investing in female founders, to bridge the capital gap for women in the startup ecosystem. Aside from MAIN, FoundHer Forum was made possible in partnership with KMC Solutions, a leading provider of flexible office space requirements and co-working space for emerging businesses in the Philippines.

 

Aside from supporting women-led businesses, MAIN, composed of more than 120 angel investors, aims to increase the number of female investors in the Philippines by diversifying their own membership. MAIN is also a member of the Gender Lens & Impact Investment Council (GIIC), a member-based industry body that seeks to build the gender lens and impact investment ecosystem in the Philippines.

 

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About Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN)

MAIN is the largest committed private investors network in the Philippines that was formed to support the country’s startup ecosystem by connecting investors with promising early-stage companies. Apart from providing capital funding, it also mentors entrepreneurs, provides expertise support, and opens networking opportunities. This innovative startup ecosystem will benefit both MAIN members’ portfolio and overall growth of Filipino startups.

 

MAIN’s upcoming pitch nights are slated on April 30 (Q2), July 23 (Q3), and October 22 (Q4). The network also conducts seminars and training sessions semi-annually. This includes a StartupAcademy and MAINAcademy sessions this coming May, and a HardTalk session in June.

 

To learn more about these upcoming events, stay tuned to MAIN’s social media platforms (linkedin.com/company/manila-angel-investors-network/) for more details. For investors interested in joining MAIN, please contact invest@main.ph.

Stay Connected and Capture Life’s Beautiful Details with realme 12+ 5G

 

Smartphones have become an extension of one’s self in their daily lives. It’s used in work for sending emails, attending online meetings, and in play for creating and streaming content. The realme 12+ 5G is an excellent choice for everyday activities like staying connected with loved ones, browsing the internet, and capturing life’s beautiful moments through its stunning camera. realme’s latest smartphone effortlessly blends performance and functionality, delivering exceptional results with minimal lag at a mid-range price point.

Here are a few ways to elevate everyday activities with the superior quality of the realme 12+ 5G:

Capture and appreciate details in everyday life

Photography enables users to archive moments that can be looked back on at any time. The 50MP Sony LYT600 OIS Camera turns ordinary photos into movie-level portraits ready to be shared on social media. Its flagship-level sensor promises next-gen photography with the support of Optical Image Stabilization. Aspiring photographers can #BeThePortrait Master with just one click.

Seamlessly handle work meetings and other daily tasks

The realme 12+ 5G becomes an extension of one’s self, and with the ultra-powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7050, workdays become even more efficient. With its 6nm Architecture,  the phone has a high level of power efficiency that allows smooth transitions from sending an email, updating a spreadsheet, attending an online meeting, and researching—all with minimal lag and low power consumption. It also has Dynamic RAM Expansion of up to 24GB providing a hassle free experience for doing multiple tasks and shifting between different apps.

Stream content and browse social media

All work and no play makes for a dull day. End a long shift at work by streaming the latest movies and series online. The 120Hz Super AMOLED Display offers a true flagship experience with super fast scrolling, brilliant colors, and incredible clarity. Quickly jump from the real world to viewing reels with ease as this display also supports up to 4,096 levels of brightness, suited for keeping eyes protected no matter how dim or dark surroundings can get.

Never miss a beat throughout the entire day

With a 5000mAh battery, get a full day of usage on the realme 12+ 5G, without having to worry about the longevity of the battery. When power runs low, the  67W SUPERVOOC Charge can get the smartphone from 1% to 50% in 19 minutes and up to 100% in 48 minutes.

Enjoy an exclusive limited-time giveaway from Techlife

Everyday activities are enriched by the cutting-edge capabilities of the realme 12+ 5G. And as an added bonus, members of the Squad are encouraged to anticipate the realme 12+ 5G Freebie Giveaway Activity. Taking place only from April 12 to 14, each purchase of the realme 12+ 5G in 12GB+256GB storage variant (P19,999 SRP) includes a FREE TechLife 10-Blade Remote Control Electric Fan, originally priced at P1,499 SRP. This exclusive giveaway is available at all realme offline stores nationwide.

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

Hop in, HONOR fans! We’re Getting the HONOR X6a for FREE with Globe's GPlan 799 Postpaid Deal!

The leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, is now even more accessible to Filipino users on a budget through its partnership with Globe. The HONOR X6a is now available with a Globe Postpaid Plan priced at Php 799 at Globe Stores online and in 28 stores nationwide.

"We are very excited to share the latest offers in partnership with Globe. HONOR Fans can now enjoy more flexible payment plans for their favorite HONOR products such as HONOR X6a. This is just another upgrade, and we can’t wait to give you more exciting offers with Globe," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

The HONOR X6a is known for its 5200mAh battery capacity that can last an average of 17.8 hours of video playback and 35 hours of audio calls for only Php 6,990. It also has a fast-charging feature with 22.5W HONOR SuperCharge, reaching 30% charge in 20 minutes.

Moreover, the HONOR X6a is equipped with an impressive 50MP Main Camera, a rarity in smartphones at this price point, ensuring vivid and detailed captures day or night. Its 5MP Front Camera delivers high-quality selfies for instant sharing with friends and family. With a generous 128GB storage capacity, users can store over 28,000 pictures, 11,000 songs, or 100 HD videos, perfect for offline media enthusiasts.

Head on to the nearest Globe Store or online starting April 6, 2024, just visit https://bit.ly/GPlan_HONORX6a for easy access.

To know more about the complete lineup of HONOR devices available, you may visit HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Ruth Cabal Headlines Rapid News Updates on TV5’s Frontline Express

Get ready for a swift dive into the latest headlines as TV5 emerges as your ultimate destination for quick news updates this summer. The Kapatid network proudly introduces esteemed journalist Ruth Cabal as the anchor of their new afternoon newscast, Frontline Express, a concise yet comprehensive 15-minute live news update that airs every Monday to Friday at 3:15 PM.

With a distinguished career marked by widespread acclaim, Ruth Cabal stands as a stalwart figure in the world of journalism. Her previous endeavors include anchoring CNN Philippines’ daily Filipino newscast, Newsroom Ngayon, producing numerous audio-video packages and live reports. She also served as a trusted broadcasting part-time lecturer at a state university. Her fearless pursuit of truth and dedication to quality reporting have earned her respect and admiration from peers and viewers alike.

Renowned for her incisive reporting and insightful commentary, Ruth Cabal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as the newest anchor of Frontline Express. Her addition to the program not only strengthens TV5’s commitment to delivering accurate and engaging news but also symbolizes a full-circle moment as Ruth returns to her roots, having started her career with TV5, then ABC 5.

Frontline Express is designed to provide audiences with a quick and reliable source of information, allowing viewers to stay informed without the disruption of their daily routines. With Ruth Cabal at the helm, this marks another significant milestone for TV5 in strengthening the network’s news and information arm, News5. Ruth’s extensive experience as a seasoned and well-rounded journalist ensures that viewers will receive top-notch reporting and analysis.

Tune in for a dynamic and insightful 15-minute live news update with one of the country’s most reputable journalists. Don't miss Ruth Cabal as she navigates through the headlines on Frontline Express every Monday to Friday at 3:15PM, and soon in more of TV5’s news and current affair programs.

Get to Know Korean Actor-Singer Kim Won Shik

Korean actor-singer Kim Won Shik is no stranger to the Philippine entertainment scene. Since he lived in the country for six and a half years, he’s familiar with local showbiz and Filipino celebrities.

Kim Won Shik opens up about his journey in the entertainment industry and how he landed a role in the Philippine adaptation of “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” in the latest cover of Metro Man.

In the cover story published on Metro.Style, Won Shik shared that he got scouted to be an idol trainee after helping his sister out to watch Park Shin Hye’s fan meet in Manila. This opportunity also led him to become a part of popular Korean series such as “True Beauty,” “Love Like a K-drama,” and “Alchemy of Souls.”

This rising artist considers the Philippines his second home

Prior to his acting projects, he lived in the Philippines with his sister for six years where he became fluent in English and Filipino.

He also described the country as his “second home” and expressed his love for the popular Pinoy meal liempo or pork belly.

He is now set to captivate the hearts of viewers as he portrays the role of Daniel Park in “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim” which he describes as a rival of Paulo Avelino’s character.

“It was hard for me to act because it’s totally different. But I did my best and I put more effort into it. The whole ‘What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim’ team/family helped me a lot to finish it,” said Won Shik.

Aside from acting, he also showcased his musical talent as he recorded the series’ soundtrack “To Be With You,” which is available now on digital streaming platforms.

Check out Won Shik’s Metro Man latest cover story. For more exclusive articles, follow @metrodotstyle on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok as well as Metro Magazine @metromagph on Instagram and Twitter and @Metro.Magazine on Facebook, or visit Metro.Style.

#MetroLovesKimWonShik

Shopee hails vivo V30 as best-selling smartphone

Shopee, a popular e-commerce platform, hailed the latest vivo V30 as the top-selling smartphone in the Php 22,000 to Php 28,000 price range from March 1 to 20, 2024.

The recognition marks the third consecutive success for vivo's V Series, following the achievements of vivo V29 in September 2023 and vivo V27e in March 2023.

Being one of the first platforms to feature the vivo V30 even before its official launch in the country, Shopee has witnessed an overwhelming response from buyers, resulting in a remarkable 4.7 out of 5 rating for the device.

The vivo V30 has garnered praise for its exceptional features, particularly in photography and performance. Equipped with dual 50MP rear cameras and a 50MP autofocus selfie camera, the device offers studio-level portrait photography. Additionally, its Aura Light 3.0 feature ensures intelligent and soft lighting for superior photo quality.

Beyond its imaging capabilities, the vivo V30 stands out as a performance powerhouse with a 4nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor, a robust 5000mAh battery, and impressive 80W fast-charging technology.

For those interested in purchasing the vivo V30 online, Shopee remains a prime destination. Keep an eye out for exclusive promos and discount vouchers to secure this premium device at a more affordable price.

Apart from Shopee, the vivo V30 is also available at Php 24,999 (12GB+256GB) and Php 27,999 (12GB+512GB) in vivo concept stores and kiosks nationwide. Customers can also buy through the official vivo Lazada and TikTok.

The vivo V30's recognition as Shopee's top-selling smartphone underscores its popularity and appeal among consumers seeking a blend of cutting-edge features and excellent value within the specified price segment. To know more about the V30, visit vivo official website.

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