IVO and Ace Hardware step up sustainability efforts

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A leading name in water purification and a popular retail brand are renewing their commitment to a sustainable future by rolling out more eco-friendly water filters nationwide.

 Shaina Magdayao,  IVO’s ambassadress

IVO is expanding its availability to more than 100 Ace Hardware stores by the end of the year. This new partnership seeks to offer a simple and effective way to use less plastic.

What IVO offers

Good things really do come in small packages, like a water filter. IVO may be tiny, but it is packed with benefits. Backed by Japanese technology, IVO ensures that the tap water you drink is safe and fresh. It uses advanced technology such as the hollow membrane, used in dialysis to purify blood, to catch even the smallest contaminants.

In addition to its technology, IVO helps address plastic pollution, one of the largest contributors to climate change. According to Oceana, a marine protection group, two garbage trucks’ worth of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute. This staggering amount highlights the urgent need for sustainable products like IVO.

Each IVO filter can purify up to 1,500 liters, equivalent to 79 large water jugs or 5,000 small plastic bottles. IVO simplifies life by removing the need to constantly purchase water stored in bulky containers.

Additionally, IVO is practical for everyday use. It eliminates the need to buy and carry bulky water containers. By simply attaching the filter to their faucet, users enjoy a continuous supply of clean water.

Shared commitment

“The wider availability of our products is part of our ongoing commitment to provide alternative solutions for a sustainable future,” said Donna Yan, President of IVO Philippines. “Through our partnership with Ace Hardware, we hope to empower more households and businesses to take steps in minimizing their plastic footprint,” she added.

ACE Hardware shares IVO’s passion for sustainable practices, as shown by its consistent support of green initiatives over the years.

Ace Hardware recently won two awards at the Retail Asia Awards 2024 for its best practices. The company was named ‘Retailer of the Year – Philippines’ and received ‘Customer Service Initiative of the Year.’

In 2022, the Retail Asia also recognized Ace Hardware for promoting sustainable products through the “Green Finds” program. The Retail Asia Awards recognize top innovations in the region's retail industry.

Impact of partnership

The collaboration goes beyond increased market visibility. Because of Ace Hardware’s wide reach, more Filipinos can benefit from high-quality, eco-friendly filter. The more Filipinos switch to sustainable solutions, the better it is for the Earth. The partnership is also a call to action – so that other businesses may follow suit and minimize their environmental footprint.

https://enjoyingwonderfulworld.blogspot.com/2024/09/ivo-hits-over-100-ace-hardware-shelves.html

Global Award-winning HONOR Magic V3 is confirmed to arrive in PH!

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HONOR is on top of the world, literally – participating in a Guinness World Record, HONOR Magic V3 is coming soon in PH

The leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, is launching the HONOR Magic V3 in the Philippines which is the brand’s thinnest foldable phone to date.

"We are excited to introduce the slimmer and stronger foldable phone of HONOR. Its premium look has more than meets the eye which we can’t wait to unveil soon," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines

In the recent Guinness world-breaking record of the American architect and card-stacking extraordinaire Bryan Berg, the HONOR Magic V3 successfully sat on top of the tallest house of cards in 8 hours, and at 54 levels high.

Official Photos of Bryan Berg from the Guinness World Records

The HONOR Magic V3 is built with AI, backed up by Google and has the highest water durability rating. It has an improved processor compared to HONOR Magic V2 and is ever stronger with titanium hinge for seamless folds.

The eagerly awaited HONOR Magic V3 will be fully unveiled soon, presenting its industry-leading specifications. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch!

For more updates on the spectacular specs of the HONOR Magic V3, follow through 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/.

Pru Life UK wins Four Golden Arrow award for corporate governance excellence

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Strengthening leadership in the insurance sector by upholding regulatory standards

Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance, Pru Life UK received the coveted Four Golden Arrow award from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) at the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) Golden Arrow Awards recognition ceremony held on 19 September in Pasay City. The leading life insurer earned 119 points in the 2023 ACGS assessment, a marked improvement from the company’s scores in previous years.

In photo: Atty. Paul Mandal, Pru Life UK Senior Vice President & Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer (1st from right), together with independent board member Ida Tiongson (3rd from left), received the four Golden Arrows recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors during the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard Golden Arrow Awards.

To encourage companies to exceed local regulatory requirements and adopt higher standards of corporate governance, the ACGS evaluates companies on key governance aspects, including shareholder rights, fair treatment, stakeholder engagement, transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of the board, while benchmarking against international best practices.

Accepting the award for the company is Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Atty. Paul Mandal, who called the recognition “a proud moment” for Pru Life UK.

“[This recognition] reflects our unwavering commitment to corporate governance,” Atty. Mandal explained. “As we continue to align with regulatory standards, we are excited to lead the way in promoting transparency and inclusivity in the Philippine insurance sector, ensuring we deliver the best possible service to our customers,” he added.

Additionally, Pru Life UK strives to make insurance more inclusive by constantly innovating and developing new products to serve the financial protection needs of all Filipinos. A new area that the company is currently exploring is Takaful or Islamic insurance, which is aligned with the priorities of the Insurance Commission (IC) and the national government. Pru Life UK targets to become the first insurer to launch Takaful in the country, reinforcing its commitment to address the diverse needs of Muslim and non-Muslim Filipinos alike.

Pru Life UK has been a consistent Golden Arrow awardee for eight consecutive years. This achievement underscores the company’s proactive response to evolving regulatory standards set by the IC.

As Pru Life UK celebrates this recognition, the company reaffirms its pledge to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance and regulatory compliance, ensuring it remains a trusted and responsible partner for its policyholders, shareholders, and the communities it serves.

Enjoy DQ’s viral parfaits with new flavors and options on its new Parfait Perfection Collection

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You've probably seen them in your timeline: posts about DQ "paa-fays" showcasing cups of aesthetically pleasing soft serve ice cream with layers of colorful toppings in between. You've probably even craved them right after seeing those viral posts, and you know what? Same!

Now, if you're looking for the perfect soft serve parfait to dig your spoon into, then you know DQ is the place to be! And with the new Parfait Perfection Collection featuring new and sought-after flavors, you now have even more options to enjoy this viral treat!

First is the new Mango Strawberry Graham Parfait, made with layers of DQ's signature vanilla soft serve and mango topping, strawberry topping, and crushed grahams in between; and the new Strawberry Brownie Parfait, made with layers of DQ's signature vanilla soft serve, strawberry topping, and chewy brownie bits.

The collection also includes two returning parfait favorites: the Avocado Caramel Parfait, made with DQ's signature vanilla soft serve, luscious caramel sauce, avocado topping, and crushed grahams; and the Oreo Caramel Cheesecake Parfait, made with DQ's signature vanilla soft serve, crushed Oreos, caramel sauce, and bite-sized chunks of creamy cheesecake!

The Mango Strawberry Graham Parfait, Strawberry Brownie Parfait, Avocado Caramel Parfait, and Oreo Caramel Cheesecake Parfait are all available in 12oz servings at P169.

That's not all! You'll also have the option to customize your parfait with extra toppings, so you can create a treat that is uniquely yours! Add in your favorite toppings like crushed Oreos, cheesecake bits, and brownie bits, starting at just P29!

DQ Parfait Perfection collection is available for dine-in and take out in all DQ stores nationwide. You can also order for delivery via the 8911-1111 hotline, www.dairyqueen.com, or DQ's official delivery partners GrabFood, foodpanda, and Pickaroo (prices may vary).

Don't forget to follow and give DQ a like on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) so you won't miss out on the latest updates, offers, and deals!

A deluxe movie experience awaits you at the newest cinema in the metro. Book your tickets at Ortigas Cinemas, GH Mall now!

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As Ortigas Malls continuously commits to provide top-notch services to mallgoers, GH Mall in San Juan has made movie-watching more enjoyable with the newly opened Ortigas Cinemas!

“The new Ortigas Cinemas offer high-quality viewing for all movie lovers. We want to bring a movie experience that is truly ‘Larger than Life,’” says Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President and Head of Ortigas Malls.

Located on the 5th floor of GH Mall, moviegoers can delight in seeing their most anticipated films on the big screen. They can choose from three different cinemas to watch their favorite films with their friends and family.

High-end movie watching at CineLuxe

Film-watching meets luxury at CineLuxe, a living room cinema concept at GH Mall. With its premium couch seats and state-of-the-art technology, the cinema simulates the feeling of watching a movie in a lavish lounge. The seats provide a homey vibe, while still leaving moviegoers with wide legroom.

Besides comfy seats, CineLuxe uses laser projection for an excellent viewing experience that captures the vibrant details of any movie. It also features a surround sound system enhanced by Dolby Atmos.

A cozy watch at The Screening Room

For visitors looking for a comfortable and immersive viewing experience, The Screening Room is the cinema for them. Its fully reclining seats ensure that they can relax while enjoying the film, which is enhanced by Dolby Atmos surround sound.

Quality time at Cine-1

Whether it’s a family movie day or bonding with friends, Cine-1 is the perfect place to hang out. The wide number of cushioned seats guarantees that visitors and their loved ones can sit next to each other while taking in every detail of the movie at a comfortable distance.

All these cinemas are available for special block screenings. Moviegoers can enjoy a variety of snacks from Reel Bites and nearby shops with great food at GH Mall!

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GH Mall is your one-stop destination to experience “Larger Than Life” moments through all things lifestyle, entertainment, and dining. Be sure to step up your entertainment through an exceptional viewing experience at Ortigas Cinemas located at 5F GH Mall.

Book your tickets now at: https://ortigascinemas.com or call 0917 849 7542.

See you at the movies!

GCash launches GLoan Sakto “Nano Loans” to help Filipinos thrive everyday through accessible financial solutions

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Users can apply for loans as low as PHP 100 to help with day-to-day essentials

In a pioneering move to help underserved and unserved Filipinos quickly bridge the gap between daily essentials and take the first step towards creditworthiness, leading finance app GCash, through its lending arm Fuse, has unveiled the expansion of its GLoan with an extended feature: the GLoan Sakto. This game-changing fintech innovation is designed to empower Filipinos, especially in the D&E sectors, allowing them to afford day-to-day essentials.

Designed to help Filipinos thrive every day through responsive and inclusive digital services, GLoan Sakto reflects GCash’s commitment to develop meaningful financial solutions that support the everyday needs and long-term financial well-being of many Filipinos.

Based on the 2021 Financial Inclusion Report of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), approximately 43% of the Filipino adult population rely on informal sources for borrowing money for daily expenses. This behavior reflects a significant lack of access to formal financial services, as only 22% of Filipinos are served by formal credit institutions. The heavy dependence on informal lending for everyday needs, such as transportation and school expenses, underscores the urgent need for more inclusive financial solutions to improve accessibility and reduce the reliance on potentially strained personal relationships.

This is the financial gap that GCash aims to bridge with GLoan Sakto. Filipinos will benefit from GCash’s nano loans by gaining quick and easy access to funds for daily essentials without relying on informal sources or straining personal relationships. This service offers a structured and reliable way to manage small, urgent financial needs, enhancing financial inclusion and convenience.

Loanable amounts for GLoan Sakto are P100 and P300, payable within 14 days. No interest is charged on the loan and borrowers only pay a processing fee of P6.5 and P19.5, respectively. More than just a loan product, GCash envisions GLoan Sakto as a stepping stone for Filipinos toward lasting financial freedom. It is the first step in helping users build their creditworthiness, eventually graduating them to GCash’s core loan offerings, such as GCredit, GGives, and GLoan, thereby integrating them further into the formal financial system.

“GLoan Sakto represents our commitment to empowering ordinary Filipinos with essential financial tools by providing them access to formal credit through this easy entry-level loan product. With this new financial tool, we are not only addressing their immediate needs but are also helping users build a good credit history," said Fuse Lending president and CEO Tony Isidro.

Accessible nano-sized loans a transformative leap in the PH lending landscape

The launch of GLoan Sakto, Fuse, and GCash has marked a transformative leap in the lending landscape in the Philippines. By seamlessly integrating accessible, nano-sized loans into the everyday financial practices of millions, especially the lowest income segments of Filipino society with 89% of users coming from the D&E market segments; 78% of which reside outside the National Capital Region. GLoan Sakto has not only broadened financial inclusion but also empowered individuals with the tools needed for personal growth and stability. This innovative solution has significantly boosted lending activity, driving economic participation and fostering a more dynamic, resilient financial ecosystem in the country.

For instance, 3 out of 4 first-time borrowers return for additional loans, setting a new standard for financial integrity and customer confidence, especially in lending. Likewise, 9 out of 10 borrowers repay their loans on time, despite having no prior formal credit line, and 15% of unique borrowers have already taken out more than five loans. By enabling Filipinos to easily and conveniently borrow loans using only their mobile phones, GLoan Sakto has not only simplified the borrowing process but has also cultivated a renewed sense of trust among borrowers, demonstrating a commitment to responsible lending and contributing to a more credible and inclusive financial landscape.

As GCash continues its mission to foster financial inclusion, GLoan Sakto stands as a significant milestone, particularly in serving the most marginalized sectors of society. It is a powerful tool in GCash’s ongoing effort to strengthen its role in nation-building through financial empowerment.

For more information on how to get started, visit www.gcash.com.

UA&P vivo Inter-Collegiate Futsal Tournament kicks off with exciting matches

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The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) vivo Intercollegiate Futsal Tournament officially kicked off on September 21, 2024, with thrilling matches and an exciting start to the season.

Organized in partnership with vivo, the UA&P Physical Education Department and the Men’s Futsal Varsity Team, the tournament promises weeks of intense competition among top university teams.

In his opening remarks, Glenn Chiu, vivo Assistant Brand Marketing Manager, highlighted vivo’s commitment to fostering both fitness and innovation. He shared, “We’re proud to partner with UA&P’s Futsal Team, as it aligns with our passion for promoting an active lifestyle and excellence. This tournament is a testament to the positive impact sports bring to communities.”

vivo Assistant Brand Marketing Manager Glenn Chiu (in black shirt) is accompanied by Tournament Chair Nikko Alquiros, University Chaplain Father Carlos Estrada, and University Officer John D Borra during the opening kick.

This year’s league showcases some of the country’s best university futsal teams, including UA&P, University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Enderun Colleges, Rizal Technological University, University of Makati, and Treston International College. The tournament will run every Saturday until November 2024, held at the UA&P gymnasium.

In a dominating performance, the UA&P Men’s Futsal Team secured a resounding 13-3 victory over UPLB, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season.

Meanwhile, Enderun Colleges and Treston International College also delivered a thrilling match on opening day, giving fans a taste of the fierce competition ahead. Enderun won with a score of 7-2.

vivo raffled off exclusive prizes during the event, including a speaker, bags, and Bluetooth earbuds, adding more excitement for attendees.

In addition to the tournament, vivo set up a two-day booth inviting students to join the vivo Club. This platform offers students exclusive perks, including internship opportunities, special event invitations, and other exciting experiences designed to help them connect with vivo and explore career-building opportunities.

Catch the games live at the UA&P gymnasium every Saturday or stream the matches through the UA&P Men’s Futsal Varsity Facebook page.

The collaboration marks vivo’s continued support of both local sports and community engagement, offering a platform for athletes to showcase their skills

Nightscape Photography: Taking low light photos with the realme 13 Pro+ 5G

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• The realme 13 Pro+ 5G takes night photography to a whole new level with its Ultra Clear Camera with AI

Ever walked through the city at night or enjoyed a candle-lit dinner, only to find it challenging to take clear, low-light photos? Without the perfect smartphone, these moments fade into the dark, missing the chance to be captured and cherished.

Fortunately, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G excels at capturing vibrant colors and intricate details in low-light settings thanks to its dedicated Night Mode and 3x Nightscape, making each scene unique.

Additionally, it has cutting-edge camera features that complement Night Mode and 3x Nightscape. These features include AI Ultra Clarity, AI Smart Removal, and 120x SuperZoom with a dual-camera setup featuring a Sony LYT600 Periscope Camera and a Sony LYT701 Camera.

The realme 13 Pro+ 5G was taken for a spin in a museum filled with breathtaking low-light art installations. The result is captivating Nightscape photos highlighting details that ordinary phones would miss.

Night photography made easier

One of the standout features of the realme 13 Pro+ 5G is its ability to capture crystal-clear photos in low-light settings, all while maintaining crisp details.

Take, for example, the photos below taken in a dome-shaped room with a bright LED backdrop. In the left picture, taken in standard photo mode, the room's darkness overwhelms the subject, leaving them barely visible against the LED backdrop.

While most phones would struggle in low light, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G’s Night Mode reveals the subject in the second photo with stunning clarity, adding depth to the background with softened lines and reduced glare.

This shot showcases the power of the realme 13 Pro+ 5G’s high resolution and large-sized sensors, which maximize light intake. What’s even better is that capturing this detail requires no effort; just switch from the standard photo mode to Night Mode and take the shot.

Improve photos with AI Smart Removal

On top of Nightscape, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G offers AI Smart Removal, a feature that lets users refine their images by removing unwanted objects.

Consider the left photo below, where an unsightly air vent ruins an otherwise perfect shot. AI Smart Removal can easily remove this element using just a few simple steps.

AI Smart Removal is a handy post-processing tool that simplifies photo editing. To use it, simply open the gallery, select the desired photo, and tap Edit. From the editing menu, choose AI Eraser, then use the Smart Lasso feature to outline and identify the object that needs to be removed.

The phone's AI expertly detects and removes unwanted objects, leaving a seamless photo without distractions. Plus, the Paint Over function can enhance the background further, ensuring a flawless shot.

Zoom in with clarity

Another standout feature that works with Nightscape is 120x SuperZoom. The realme 13 Pro+ 5G, equipped with the Sony LYT600 Periscope Camera, allows for effortless capture of portraits and distant scenes even in low-light conditions.

In the sample shots below, ranging from 1x to 3x Zoom, the phone delivers stunning clarity despite challenging lighting.

Thanks to the powerful Sony LYT600 Periscope Camera, every detail remains sharp and noise-free at any zoom level. With up to 120x SuperZoom, users can capture photos at any distance, all with the same impressive clarity.

Overall, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G makes night photography a breeze. Whether wandering through charming, low-light venues or enjoying a night out with friends, this smartphone effortlessly captures every moment in low light, turning every snapshot into a vibrant memory.

Don’t let another moment slip by—head to any realme stores nationwide or visit realme's official e-commerce platforms on TikTok Shop, Lazada, and Shopee to get the realme 13 Pro+ 5G today starting at P28,999.

For more details about the realme 13 Pro+ 5G and other announcements, head over to the official realme Facebook page and website.

OPPO is Set to Partner with UNESCO to Empower Youth Innovation and Cultural Preservation through Imaging Technology on Its 20th Anniversary

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To mark its 20th anniversary, OPPO is set to forge a partnership with United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with the goal of empowering cultural education and diversity through technology. Using imaging technology, this initiative aims to preserve and transmit cultural heritage, enabling youth to explore the world and connect with diverse cultures, truly embodying the spirit of "Connecting Cultures, Inspiring Futures."

Empowering Cultural Education through Imagining Technology and A Call for “Culture Donation”

As part of this collaboration, OPPO will donate 1000 OPPO tablets to support the development of local youth education in Africa and Asia. These devices will feature cultural programming courses developed under the ‘Youth Coding Initiative’, jointly launched by UNESCO and CODEMAO, children's programming education brand. The initiative aims to promote the inclusive and safe use of technology, advance equitable education in Africa and Asia, and help preserve local cultural heritage through digital learning.

Firmin E. Matoko, the Assistant Director-General for Priority Africa and External Relations, stated, “OPPO’s dedication to advancing youth innovation and education is highly appreciated. I am sure that the students and teachers from Africa and Asia will better benefit from the new partnership with OPPO following UNESCO vision and requirements.” The partnership will be launched officially after completing the relevant UNESCO procedural reviews. OPPO's initiative has received strong support from the National Commission of the People's Republic of China for UNESCO.

In addition to the donations, OPPO is launching a global campaign #CaptureMyCulture, encouraging users worldwide to contribute to cultural preservation by sharing photos and stories that celebrate their local traditions. Participants in this campaign will have the chance to witness the donation ceremony.

OPPO’s Continued Commitment to Cultural Preservation

OPPO's commitment to cultural education extends beyond its partnership with UNESCO. Earlier this year, OPPO joined forces with Discovery Channel to launch the “Culture in a Shot” project, a global initiative aimed at spotlighting and protecting cultural diversity through imaging technology. The project captures the efforts of dedicated individuals: Thailand’s Lisu group preserving their heritage through music; Indonesia’s artisans practicing the ancient craft of batik with a visual representation of local traditions; and Spain’s flamenco dancers embodying Andalusian culture through their art form. Every single group tells the unique cultural story through the distinct art form.

Besides, OPPO launches AI Studio in the Reno12 series, allowing users to generate a studio-quality portrait, such as transforming into a flamenco dancer, offering an immersive cultural experience from anywhere in the world.

OPPO continues to push the boundaries of technological innovation, using its expertise in AI and imaging to enhance cultural preservation and education. By providing tools for creative expression and storytelling, OPPO is helping to connect cultural and inspire the next generation.

As OPPO celebrates its 20th anniversary, the company remains dedicated to its mission of “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World”, Moving forward, OPPO will continue to harness technology to contribute towards positive impact on society. OPPO remains dedicated to promoting cultural preservation and youth education, contributing to the inheritance and development of global culture.

The OPPO 20th anniversary #CaptureMyCulture campaign is open for submissions until September 25, 2024. Click here to share your cultural photos and stories, connecting cultures, inspiring futures!

Spread hope and happiness with UNICEF Christmas cards by Manuel Baldemor

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UNICEF Philippines ushers in the start of the Christmas season with the joyful art of Pinoy folk artist Manuel “Manny” Baldemor—this year’s featured artist for UNICEF Christmas Cards.

This 2024, UNICEF Cards feature the joyful works of Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor. Get one box of UNICEF Cards for every P1,000 donation and help more vulnerable children survive and thrive. Get your own set of UNICEF Cards at https://donate.unicef.ph/.

A Filipino artist from Paete, Laguna, Manny Baldemor is renowned for his paintings, wood prints, and wood carvings featuring simplified geometric forms and folk art characters. He would often depict his hometown, its people, their daily activities, and traditions in his art. Baldemor participated in various national and international art exhibitions and received numerous prestigious awards.

The works of Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor are featured in this year’s UNICEF Cards. Go to https://donate.unicef.ph/ to get your own set today.

Having been a part of the UNICEF Cards roster of renowned artists since the 1990s, his works have been reproduced and sold in countries around the world for almost two decades.

The 2024 limited-edition UNICEF Cards feature four artworks from Baldemor’s vast collection: Pasko sa Aming Bayan (1992), Christmas Lanterns Festival (2006), Graces from the Land (2008), and Pasko ng Pamilya Pilipino (2024).

“My dream is for all children to be healthy and happy because they are our hope, our future. I am happy to contribute my time and talent to support UNICEF’s programs for children and I am very proud and honored to be a UNICEF artist,” says Manny Baldemor.

“It was a natural decision to have Manuel Baldemor as our contributing artist for UNICEF Christmas Cards. His passion for sharing the joyful spirit of Filipino values and culture is apparent in every piece he makes. By donating through these cards, you not only get to own a piece of Baldemor’s art, you are also supporting lifesaving programs for the most vulnerable children,” shares Carli Snyman, Chief of Fundraising and Partnerships, UNICEF Philippines.

Make someone happy today and help more children with UNICEF Cards! For every P1,000 donation, you get one box of UNICEF Cards featuring the art of Manuel Baldemor. Every donation supports UNICEF's lifesaving programs for children. Go now to https://donate.unicef.ph/.

Get one box set of UNICEF Cards for every P1,000 donation and receive 12 individual cards featuring Baldemor’s four artworks. Experience the unique joy of writing personal messages, sending Christmas cards, and making someone’s day with these limited-edition cards while helping the most vulnerable children through UNICEF’s lifesaving programs in health & nutrition, education, protection, and emergency support.

Go to https://donate.unicef.ph/ to get your own set of UNICEF Christmas Cards today.

You’ve been drinking water all wrong. Dr. Kilimanguru explains the top 5 signs of dehydration.

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With the weather in the Philippines feeling hotter every year, keeping cool can be difficult. In these scorching times, staying hydrated is more important than ever, with the right water being crucial in keeping the heat and dehydration at bay. But what is “the right water” that truly replenishes our fluids and gives us the best hydration?

The doctor has spoken. In a recent video, Dr. Kilimanguru, known online as Dr. Kilimanguru, talked about some signs of dehydration, due to not drinking enough water, or from not drinking mineral water. Mineral water contains essential minerals our bodies do not produce naturally, but are important nonetheless, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. 

Should our bodies lack these needed minerals according to Dr. Kilimanguru, these five dehydration symptoms may occur.

Dry lips, sunken eyes, and dry skin is our first telltale sign of dehydration. While our bodies need lots of water to stay hydrated to prevent this dryness, the right water can really make a difference. As you go through your day, especially during physical activity, the body loses the fluids needed to stay active. Mineral water contains the minerals that help improve hydration, keeping us quenched throughout the day with healthier skin.

If you experience frequent headaches, that may also be a sign that the water you are drinking is not enough. According to Dr. Kilimanguru, headaches can also come from dehydration. The right water, when you drink lots of it, will help improve blood flow to your head, preventing headaches and keeping your head clear.

A darker urine color is also an indication of water deficiency. As per Dr. Kilimanguru in his video, we should aim to have our urine be light yellow to clear, a sign of sufficient hydration and the right kind of water. If your urine is darker, mineral water may improve your fluid content.

Muscle cramps may also be linked to dehydration and the lack of minerals in the body. Dr. Kilimanguru says that it’s not just stretching that causes muscle cramps – a deficiency in potassium and calcium can also be a trigger. Mineral water that contains these minerals can deter muscle cramps, especially during fitness routines and outdoor activities

Surprisingly, weight gain can be a sign of dehydration. In the doctors video, he states that our metabolism is affected by our water intake, with less water leading to slower metabolism. Calcium and potassium also aid in a faster metabolism, so drinking mineral water can strengthen hydration.

Dr. Kilimanguru stresses the importance of drinking the right water, recommending mineral water brands such as Evian, Fiji, and Le Minerale, to make sure we not only drink enough water, but that we get the right minerals that “make hydration better”, leading to a healthier-looking and healthier-feeling body.

#BackToSchool stain worries? Sagot ‘yan ng Ariel!

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Discover the doble laba, doble linis wonders of Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack

Behind every kid making the big adjustment from a relaxed, weekend-all-week school break to a tight back-to-classes routine is a mom who does the same, except everything is done a bit more intensely. If the kid needs to be up early, she wakes up earlier. If the kid needs a little motivation to study, she pushes harder. Supermoms handle everything so their children don’t have to, down to the smallest “school stain” on their uniforms.

Via Austria
@viaaustria on TikTok

Whether caused by their favorite snack-time chocolate drink, a shared mango fruit by a classmate, spaghetti sauce, or accidental pen ink, any school-related stain leaves a nasty mark and even a bad impression. That is why moms stay on top of all stain-removing moves, including the open-secret laundry hack in the form of Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack. With its superior cleaning and tough stain removal, every probleMAMA concerned about her child’s dirty uniform turns into a proudMAMA able to remove even the toughest stains.

The Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack helps remove tough stains in just one wash. It presents moms with the benefit of doble laba, doble linis by delivering two packs in one, good for 2 loads of laundry with double cleaning power.

In a series of TikTok posts, two momfluencers vouched for the superior cleaning of the Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack. One was Chin Capiral, who shared that her daughter, Kitty, requested spaghetti as her baon for school. Upon checking Kitty’s bag after class, Mommy Chin discovered that the sauce left a huge stain on her uniform.

Chin Capiral,
@chincapiral on TikTok

“Buti na lang nandyan ang Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack to the rescue,” she said in the video. “Subok na talaga namin ‘to sa pagtanggal ng tough stains. Kayang-kaya in just one wash.”

Apart from Mommy Chin, Via Austria also shared her battle with school stains. Mommy Via was shares about adjusting their routines since the opening of the school year before her teenage daughter Ayi showed a chocolate stain on her uniform.

“’Pag ganitong madaming stains, lalo na mga tough stains, nakaka-stress lang siyang tignan, pero kayang-kaya kong labahan ‘to gamit ang Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack,” she said. “Kaya hindi na kailangan ma-stress ‘pag may mga mantsa ang mga uniform.”

Take it from Mommy Via and Mommy Chin that dealing with tough stains is easier than ever thanks to Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack. Never worry again about washing out stains; just free your mind and let your kids be kids in school.

Ariel Twin Jumbo Pack comes in multiple variants such as Sunrise Fresh, Floral Passion, Fresh Garden Bloom, and Clean & Bright. It is available in supermarkets and sari-sari stores near you. For bigger pack sizes of Ariel laundry detergent, these are available online on Lazada and Shopee.

Know more about the best laundry hacks with Ariel by following facebook.com/ArielPhilippines.

IVO hits over 100 Ace Hardware shelves

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An ace player in water purification technology is celebrating its 6th year in the business by bringing safe and eco-friendly hydration solutions to more Filipinos.

IVO is extending its market reach in Ace Hardware stores with a target of more than 100 branches nationwide by the end of the year. This means more Filipinos will have access to the advanced Japanese technology that earned certifications from the Department of Health- Food and Drug Adminstration, Japan Industrial Standards, and NSF International. While this partnership is new in terms of scale, Ace Hardware has initially carried IVO products in its eight branches.

Same goal

The partnership between IVO and Ace Hardware developed naturally, with both having a similar attitude towards sustainability. These companies have been promoting eco-friendly products for years.

Ace Hardware recently won two awards at the Retail Asia Awards 2024 for its best practices. The company was named ‘Retailer of the Year – Philippines’ and received ‘Customer Service Initiative of the Year.’

In 2022, Ace Hardware also won the ESG Initiative of the Year - Philippines for promoting sustainable products through SM Retail’s “Green Finds” program. The Retail Asia Awards recognize top innovations in the region's retail industry.

IVO benefits

Meanwhile, IVO has long offered a better way to consume water. It is more than just a faucet-mounted water purifier. IVO’s cartridge is capable of filtering up to 1,500 liters – equivalent to 5,000 small 300ml single-use plastic bottles or 79 large water jugs. By using IVO, people can reduce plastic waste, save money, and enjoy good quality water.

Aside from its environmental benefits, IVO provides clean and fresh water by utilizing a meticulous filtration process. It uses advanced technology such as the hollow membrane, used in dialysis to purify blood, to catch even the smallest contaminants.

Celebrating milestones

Since IVO products will become easier to access thanks to Ace Hardware, more people can benefit from this eco-friendly technology. Through this partnership, both companies might inspire more Filipinos to make a small change in their daily routine, which can create a big difference for the planet.

The IVO-Ace collaboration is more than just increased market visibility. Because of Ace Hardware’s wide reach, more Filipinos will benefit from high-quality, eco-friendly filters. The more Filipinos switch to sustainable solutions, the better it is for the Earth. The partnership is also a call for other businesses to follow suit and minimize their impact on the environment.

IVO and Ace Hardware will hold a launch event at the SM Megamall on September 26. Gracing the event is IVO’s ambassadress, Shaina Magdayao, who is a believer and user of the product. The event will highlight the companies’ shared goal of supporting sustainability, one filter at a time.

Anne Curtis, Maine Mendoza steal the show at vivo V40 Grand Launch

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The highly anticipated vivo V40 Grand Launch lit up Okada Manila on September 18, 2024, as brand ambassadors Anne Curtis and Maine Mendoza dazzled the crowd with their stunning looks, inspired by the vibrant colorways of the new vivo V40.

Both stars posed for photos, showcasing the vivo V40 in Sunglow Peach and Nebula Purple at interactive booths designed to highlight the phone’s innovative features.

Captured by the vivo V40's powerful 50MP cameras, co-engineered with ZEISS, the portraits of Anne and Maine were nothing short of lifelike. The ZEISS Multifocal Portrait feature brought their photos to life, giving them the professional quality that has become synonymous with ZEISS optics.

Guests at the event were also invited to experience the vivo V40's ZEISS Multifocal Portrait firsthand. This groundbreaking feature allows users to capture professional-grade portraits using the three most popular focal lengths in photography: 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm. With this technology, capturing breathtaking, magazine-worthy shots is made simple.

What went down at the vivo V40 Grand Launch

The launch wasn’t just about taking amazing photos. Phil Zhong from vivo Headquarters introduced the audience to the ultra-slim design and powerful performance of the vivo V40, highlighting some features like the 5500mAh BlueVolt battery and IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance.

Daniel Goetz from vivo Europe delved into the phone's imaging and portrait capabilities, while Franziska Hoffman from ZEISS Consumer Products shared exciting advancements in the vivo-ZEISS collaboration.

From left to right: Zeng Kai from vivo PH, Daniel Goetz from vivo EU, Phil Zhong from vivo HQ, Franziska Hoffman from ZEISS, Maine Mendoza, Anne Curtis, Hazel Bascon from vivo PH, Liu Lu from vivo PH, and Robert Horry

The excitement continued with fun games involving Anne, Maine, and seven-time NBA champion Robert Horry, with lucky guests winning prizes such as the vivo TWS 3e and autographed posters and basketballs.

They took a groufie using vivo V40's 50MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera, which features autofocus and a 92-degree field of view, ensuring that no one was left out of the shot.

Anne and Maine also highlighted their favorite features of the vivo V40. Anne was particularly impressed with the vivo V40's cameras, co-engineered with ZEISS, and its IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance. "I just found out that it's dust and waterproof, up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes! Isn't that amazing? It's perfect for traveling," Anne shared excitedly.

Maine, on the other hand, loved the vivo V40's ZEISS All Main Camera and the AI Aura Light. "I also love to travel, so having a professional-grade pocket camera wherever I go is really convenient," she said.

Of course, some lucky guests also took home vivo V40. If you missed the event, check out vivo Facebook page for the replay.

Pre-orders for the vivo V40 are open until September 27, with an exclusive discount of Php 2,000 for reservations made with a Php 500 deposit. Starting at Php 26,999, the vivo V40 will be available for claiming from September 28 to October 6, with a free vivo TWS 3e (worth Php 1,999) included.

Visit your nearest vivo store or shop online via the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada to secure your vivo V40 and become a ZEISS Portrait Master!