GCash supports COMELEC’s Kontra-Bigay campaign

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GCash expressed its full support for the Commission on Elections’ (COMELEC) Resolution No. 10946, also known as "Kontra-Bigay", ahead of the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.

Seated from left: Committee on Kontra bigay commissioner-in-charge Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda Jr., Comelec commissioner Socorro Inting, chairman George Erwin Garcia, commissioner Rey Bulay and deputy executive director for operations Rafael Olano, together with the GCash legal team (standing)

Officials from the fintech company attended the campaign’s launch at the Palacio del Gobernador in Intramuros, Manila, earlier in September. The launch was also attended by distinguished representatives from lead agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), Office of the Solicitor General (OSG), Public Attorney's Office (PAO), Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Department of Education (DepEd), as well as prominent election-focused NGOs like National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL), Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), and Legal Network For Truthful Elections (LENTE).

COMELEC Resolution No. 10946 aims to combat online vote buying and selling by establishing a Kontra-Bigay Committee and expanding the existing vote-buying regulations under the Omnibus Election Code and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, as well as the other rules and regulations issued by COMELEC.

One of the most significant highlights of the newly passed resolution is its recognition of online banking transactions and the use of e-wallets as potential channels for vote buying under Section 30. During the launch, COMELEC emphasized its authority to scrutinize the financial details of account holders suspected of involvement in such illicit activities.

“GCash reiterates its unwavering commitment to cooperate fully with the COMELEC in the fight against online vote buying. The company recognizes the critical role fintech companies play in safeguarding the integrity of elections by preventing the misuse of digital financial tools for unlawful purposes,” said Martha Sazon, president and chief executive officer of GCash.

GCash believes that fostering transparency, accountability, and trust in financial transactions is paramount to ensuring fair, honest, and inclusive elections that reflect the people's will.

"We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency and security in financial transactions and will actively support the COMELEC in their efforts to maintain a level playing field for all candidates and voters,” added Sazon.

As the country’s no. 1 finance super app, GCash embraces its responsibility in ensuring that not only finance but also democracy, is for all.

Linya-Linya strengthens community-driven initiatives with launch of “Tulong-Tulong” at Linya-Linya Land 2023

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Aside from showcasing music, comedy, and arts at the multi-format festival, the witty t-shirt and content creation company aims to provide a platform for their partner organizations to educate the public about their advocacies and cause.

Along with the country’s top musicians, comedians, and artists, Linya-Linya will be bringing its partner organizations to Linya-Linya Land 2023 where they will be given a space to inform and educate the public about their causes, get donations for their beneficiaries, and recruit volunteers for their projects.

Best known for its witty and punny Filipino lines on shirts and content, Linya-Linya has long been doing its part to put smiles on its partner organizations through “Tulong-Tulong,” a program for all of the brand’s outreach efforts. Currently, Linya-Linya partners with several organizations that cover advocacy on education, equality, and animal welfare, including: AHA! Learning Center, Angat Buhay Foundation, Mindanao Pride, Love Yourself PH, and Pawssion Project.

Through selling of select shirts and other merch, Linya-Linya is able to provide funds and awareness to help the said organizations. Linya-Linya’s Creative Director Ali Sangalang explains the importance of extending a helping hand to amplify the messaging of the cause. “Bilang mga Pilipinong humaharap sa iba’t ibang hamon sa panahon ngayon, mahalaga ang tulong. Pero ang totoo, mas malakas at mas epektibo kapag tulong-tulong tayo.”

Tulong-Tulong started at the height of the pandemic, during the time when frontliners and families-at-risk were in need of medical-grade supplies. To extend help, portions of the sales of selected Linya-Linya shirts were donated to Frontline Feeders PH, AHA! Learning Center, and Life Cycles PH. 

With the success of this simple gesture to help the people in need amidst the pandemic, Linya-Linya strengthens the initiative by giving shirts to students, mothers, and teachers from AHA! Learning Center and helped in renovating the Angat Buhay Community Learning Hub in Area 17, UP Campus, Quezon City.

 A group picture of the students, mothers, and teachers from Angat Buhay Community Learning Hub in Area 17

A group picture of students from Angat Buhay CLH wearing their Linya-Linya shirts.

A group picture of kids and teachers from AHA! Learning Center in Tondo

Apart from these, the shirt company will also be bringing Bantayog ng mga Bayani Foundation as a new partner– a non-stock, non-profit organization that aims to educate the Filipino nation and spread awareness in maintaining democracy, ensuring justice, and always in pursuit of truth.

Celebrating Filipino talent and supporting local artists has been a part of Linya-Linya’s advocacies. Alongside the celebration of these collaborations, attendees are up for a special treat as Linya-Linya launches new limited edition shirts in collaboration with “Bawat Daan” singer Ebe Dancel and the classic and iconic comic artist Pol Medina, Jr. 

The upcoming limited edition “Hari ng Sablay” collab shirt with Ebe Dancel

 The upcoming limited edition “May the PORK be with you” collab shirt with Pol Medina, Jr.

Aside from the performances and other activities at the event, the shirt company will hold a Super Sale where attendees can avail shirts and other merch for as low as P188. 

Linya-Linya Land 2023 will be happening on August 26, 2023 at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City. Presented by Linya-Linya and GNN Entertainment Productions, the annual event takes hilarious puns to an exciting new level with its showcase of multi-format headliners that aim to create an integrated experience for the community and the fans.

This year’s edition marks an impactful comeback with a lineup featuring some of the most notable names in music, comedy, and art. Filipino singer-songwriters and bands Ebe Dancel, Johnoy Danao, Nica Del Rosario, Cheats, Autotelic, and DJ Ayel lead the bill, alongside standup comedians Victor Anastacio, Nonong Ballinan, GB Labrador, James Caraan, and Jeleen Cubillas. Completing the non-performing headliners are some of the most acclaimed and established talents in Philippine art: Manix Abrera, Rob Cham, and Pol Medina Jr., whose work will be exhibited at the ‘art’ market; and muralists/illustrators Panch Alvarez and AG Saño, who will be bringing uniquely infused art experiences to life.

Tickets are available online at bit.ly/linyalinyaland23. Ticket charges apply. For more information about the event, visit Linya-Linya’s social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Teleperformance march for LGBTQIA+ rights across the Philippines

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Teleperformance (TP), global leader in digital transformation and people experience management, marched along with allies and members of the LGBTQIA+ community on June 24–25 to support the call for gender equality and empowerment. The equal opportunity employer highlighted the slogan, “#FreeToBeMeAtTP,” for Pride March 2023.

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Teleperformance Philippines reported over 1,500 participants attending its various Pride March activities nationwide, exceeding the mobilization goal.

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Teleperformance is the first company and BPO firm in the Philippines to be certified Great Place to Work ® for five consecutive years and a back-to-back recipient of the Philippines Best Workplaces™ award this year.

Doubling down on its commitment to promote safe and empowering environments from the workplace and beyond, TP collaborated with the organizers of Pride PH, Northern Luzon Pride, Mandaue Pride March, and PrideFest Davao to champion the Pride March events held in Quezon City, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao.

TP Baguio delegates pose before marching at the Northern Luzon Pride 2023

Metro Manila delegates with the TP Cloud Campus Jeepney at the Quezon Memorial Circle

TP Cebu IT Park delegates to the Mandaue Pride March 2023

TP Davao delegates marching at the PrideFest Davao 2023

This year, the company recorded 1,500 participants at different Pride March locations in the country, breaking the five hundred mobilization target.

“The great thing about TP Pride is that it’s constantly evolving. So, when our employees have feedback and suggestions on how we can make TP Pride even better, we make sure to implement those things,” said Chief People Officer and Chief of Staff Jeffrey Johson.

“I am really, really proud of TP Pride because this program continues to get better and it continues to see more participation. I look forward to where the future will take us,” he added.

Several of the company’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DE&I) initiatives like TP Pride, a platform for gender awareness and gender sensitivity, are powered by grassroots advocates from different levels of the organization who regularly gather for learning, support, and community activities such as the annual Pride March across the country.

Aside from the annual Pride March, TP’s support has materialized with the creation of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) policy that caters to the particular medical needs of all employees, regardless of gender; and the commitment to advocacies, such as, but not limited to, the development of a comprehensive and industry-recognized HIV awareness program.

Another DE&I initiative, Teleperformance’s TP Women ensure equal representation and opportunities within the company’s workforce. In the Philippines, over 50% of employees are women across the board, including in management positions.

To learn more about Teleperformance Philippines, visit their website at www.teleperformance.com.

Love the Philippines draws widespread support

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Widespread support has poured in for the country’s freshly-released enhanced tourism campaign, Love the Philippines.

News5 reported that social listening tool Sprinklr recorded 59.1 million approval emotions from the public and a combined 28.9 million smile, happy, and appreciation emotions on the Love the Philippines campaign in the last 24 hours as of 4:50PM of Thursday (Jun 29).

Former Senator and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Richard GORDON, the brains behind the successful “WOW PHILIPPINES campaign, manifested his support, saying that he found the enhanced campaign "instantly appealing".

In a report, he said that Love The Philippines is "catchy and easy to recall", adding that the phrase also "provides a double-meaning call for Filipinos to love the country more than just its physical wonders but also the people’s good traits. He said it is also a statement of appreciation for the Philippines experienced by tourists."

United States Ambassador to the Philippines Marykay L. Carlson also expressed her support to Love The Philippines through a tweet, manifesting her personal love for the Philippines since she came here as diplomat.

“Almost one year since I arrived and I already have lots of reasons to #LoveThePhilippines—the food, the culture, and definitely the people,” she said.

National government officials have also conveyed their support to the enhanced tourism campaign.

“I love it!”, Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri was quoted by a news report, complimenting the branding campaign as “clear and concise”.

Posting “Love the Philippines” on her Instagram, Senator Loren Legarda said that there are countless ways to love about the country, and expressed her full support to the newly launched campaign.

Former Senate President Pro Tempore and now House Deputy Speaker Ralph G. Recto, who described the Philippines as a destination like “garden of roses”, also aired his support through a statement.

“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet. As a travel destination, Philippines is a garden of roses. I support the DOT’s new campaign,” the House Deputy Speaker enthused.

Meanwhile, Senator Grace Poe recognized the efforts of the DOT to lure more tourists to visit the Philippines. 

Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero encouraged the public to “support it instead of criticizing it outright”.

Tourism achievements in numbers

Half into this year, the DOT has already recorded 2.67 million international visitor arrivals as of June 29, 2023, 2.44 million of this are foreigners. This year, the Department is targeting a baseline of 4.8 million international tourist arrivals.

South Koreans remain the top source of foreign markets with 665,757 travelers to the Philippines, followed by the United States (509,526), Australia (128,232), Japan (127,139), and Canada (123,439).

In 2022, the industry contributed 6.2 percent to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) having churned in PHP1.87 trillion in tourism revenues.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her gratitude to the public and to all officials who have given widespread support for Love the Philippines.

In a television interview addressing the question of some whether Love the Philippines is a “demand” from tourists, the DOT chief said that love is not demanded as it is a natural thing that must emanate from the heart.

On the aspect of tourism, by reflecting the bountiful assets of the Philippines—from its natural wonders to its heritage, traditions, and culture–into Secretary Frasco said she has high hopes that the campaign will reawaken love for the country.

“You cannot “demand” love. It is a natural thing that must emanate from your heart. “Love the Philippines” goes to the heart of every Filipino that loves their country. You can no more force one person to love their country in the same way that you cannot force them to love themselves, or somebody else. It is a natural feeling that must come from your heart. And we truly believe that in reflecting our love of country in our new tourism tagline, we would be able to reawaken in our fellow Filipinos their own love of country,” she said.

Further, Secretary Frasco said that the tagline is also the Philippines’ “love letter to the world”, giving international tourists an opportunity to discover and know more about the Philippines, beyond the promotions and stories done in the past primarily focused on fun, reiterating that there is so much more that the Philippines can offer from its heritage, culture, history, food, experiences, and especially the love and warmth of the Filipino people.

In a separate online interview with Facts First with Christian Esguerra, veteran advertising executive Matec Villanueva shared the same observation.

“From the ground up, the first question is always: sino ba ang kinakausap ko? Who is my target audience? The target audience mo, in this case as I understand, would be foreign tourists kasi ang tiningnan din pala nila is yung kalaban in the regions,” Villanueva said.

“So, what they are trying to do is that they are trying to encapsulate that message to something that is inspiring, something that is catchy. Therefore, they come up with what we call the big idea. But the big idea is actually based on a consumer insight or your target insight,” she added.

To Secretary Frasco, the launch of “Love the Philippines” was based on the demands of the industry after the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. This, as what was once a global health emergency has changed travelers’ motivations, preferences, and behavior, leading to what is now referred to as “the changed traveler.”

The advertising executive also realized this in the enhanced tourism campaign.

“Tatlong taon tayong nakalockdown. Iba ang turista before the pandemic. Iba ang turista ng after the pandemic. Nag-iba 'yung pananaw nila kasi before the pandemic, people are already traveling, enjoying, and then suddenly you can’t move for three years,” Villanueva said.

Building love as a concept

Love The Philippines as a concept, Secretary Frasco said, was conceived with careful consideration of the results of extensive market research and studies.

According to a market research released by Euromonitor, one of the world’s leading independent providers of strategic market research, travelers are seeking new and authentic real-world experiences, which means immersing in other cultures, seeking curated experiences that are unique or out of the ordinary.

Further, travelers want to find a connection to love, and the word “love” has always been primarily associated with the Philippines. Based on Brandwatch, one of the world's most trusted social media monitoring and analytics applications, the word “love” is frequently mentioned in high volume globally with total mentions of 140.4K (previously 92.24K) and a reach of 91.21M (previously 59.72M).

The enhanced tourism campaign, Secretary Frasco said, was designed to highlight more of what there is to love about the Philippines.

“What food do they love? What destination do they love? What experience do they love in the Philippines? It’s also an opportunity for our foreign friends from all over the world to discover so much more beyond the surface that we have scratched in how we have marketed the Philippines thus far,” Secretary Frasco said.

In an interview, Villanueva also said: “In this age of communication, ang advertising ngayon is always based on research because access to information, access to data. Now apparently, the group who did this, even the group (who conceptualized) the It’s More Fun in the Philippines had data supporting them when they came out with It’s More Fun in the Philippines. Apparently, DOT says tourists who came to the Philippines, the feeling when they came here, nag-exceed ang expectations nila. They were happy with what they experienced kasi nga tourism is an experiential thing. When they took a deep dive sa mga social media, into the internet, nakita nila na ang expression ng tao ng satisfaction o yung exceeding expectations was’t fun, it was love,” she emphasized.

“The verbalization of the enjoyment was love,” she added.

World Vision brings sponsors and former sponsored children together for the first appreciation event this year 2023

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The life you touch may just be the one sitting next to you. World Vision in the Philippines recently brought together over 100 sponsors and donors in a joyous and emotional gathering - the first face-to-face Loyal Donor Appreciation Event since the pandemic.

Held in Quezon City and hosted by World Vision Education Technical Program Manager Geomel Jetonzo and GMA news anchor Mav Gonzales, the event celebrated the generosity and loyalty of sponsors who have and are still supporting World Vision’s child sponsorship program. Over 50 sponsors were recognized for their exceptional support, having sponsored children for five, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years!

World Vision team and loyal child sponsors proudly stand together for the children

Marie Demafelis - a child sponsor for 25 years and former Strategy Management Director of WVDF – feels grateful for the opportunity to help transform the lives of the most vulnerable children. “Over the years, I’ve attended many Loyal Sponsors events. I encourage other sponsors to join as you can listen to the moving testimonies of all the children. You can see firsthand how you’re able to help them and make a difference in their lives,” she shared.

World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte shares their recent success with the presentation of their annual report

In its 2022 Annual Report, World Vision shared that it reached 3,243,854 children. “We at World Vision are truly humbled and blessed to have received our sponsors and children’s unwavering trust, confidence, and loyalty as we implement our programs, projects, and advocacies through the Philippines, especially in the most difficult and vulnerable places,” shares Rommel Fuerte, National Director of World Vision in the Philippines. “This event is a very special one as we'd like to take this time to express our sincerest, heartfelt thank yous’ and gratitude to our dearest sponsors and partners for their amazing commitment to child sponsorship.”

In a moving segment of the program, children who are registered under World Vision’s child sponsorship program as well as former sponsored children, led by Rear Admiral Armand Balilo of the Philippine Coast Guard, shared their stories of success and resilience, further inspiring guests.

“The Lord’s plan for us is to give us hope and a future. This is what World Vision’s program – as well as my sponsors – have given me. I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for extending your grace and love to these children. Looking back, I can say with certainty that the Lord has, indeed, given me a future and hope,” shared Richard Supat, one of the organization’s former sponsored children.

 

To date, World Vision in the Philippines has an operational presence in 28 area programs with more than 56,000 registered children. If you’d like to become a sponsor and use your blessings, you can do so by simply donating Php 25 a day or Php 750 a month. Your generosity can help advance initiatives that focus on children’s education, health and nutrition, child protection, disaster preparedness, economic development, and more.

World Vision Resource Development Director Jun Godornes expresses his gratitude to loyal donors and sponsors.

In his closing remarks, Resource Development Director Jun Godornes emphasized how paying it forward benefits not only the sponsored children but the child sponsors as well. “If you are here, you are blessed. Thank you for being a channel for more blessings.”

Watch the event highlights here: https://youtu.be/Gz1Mjl0zDrQ

Become a proud World Vision Sponsor and read more about our initiatives at www.worldvision.org.ph.

RVR Siklab Awards for young entreps sparks hope in 2023 comeback

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The Ramon V. del Rosario Siklab Awards or RVR Siklab Awards once again opens its nationwide search for young trailblazers who bring together sustainable entrepreneurship and nation-building efforts after a 3-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organized jointly by the PHINMA Group and De La Salle University RVR College of Business, the RVR Siklab Awards aims to recognize youth entrepreneurs aged 25 to 40 years old who demonstrates exceptional leadership in their respective fields through organizing and managing sustainable businesses, social enterprises, or self-initiated programs that uplift the lives of others.

To formally launch this year’s call for nominations, the youth leadership award had a kick-off event attended by youth organizations, foundations, and enterprise groups on Saturday, March 18 at Acceler8 Legazpi, Paseo de Roxas, Makati.

Representatives from mission-driven organizations gather at the RVR Siklab Awards kick-off event on March 18 to amplify the 2023 call for nomination.

“The youth has and will always be a key component in building the foundations for a better future. If we want genuine social change to happen, the private sector should not proceed with business as usual. Businesses should empower, lead, and transform the next generation into good leaders and nation builders our country needs,” said Ramon R. del Rosario, Jr., PHINMA Chairman and CEO and RVR Siklab Awards Board of Judges co-chair.

L-R: Engr. Karl Pacolor of DTI, Gary Ayuste and JB Tan from the first batch of Siklab awardees talked about the vital role of the youth in introducing positive change.

The 2023 Siklab search committee will recognize young and bright business leaders who pioneered positive change, exemplified exceptional leadership skills in their organization, maintained an entrepreneurial spirit and mindset, and embodied the ideals of the late Ambassador and PHINMA founder Ramon V. del Rosario (RVR): a leader, entrepreneur, and nation-builder at a critical time in Philippine history. He was an icon in both business and the diplomatic service, having served as the first Filipino General Manager of IBM Philippines, the first Filipino Executive Vice-President of Philam Life, and ambassador to Canada, Germany, and Japan.

Dr. Aris Alip, a Ramon V. del Rosario Award for Nation Building recipient, talked about his work in poverty eradication and the humble beginnings of CARD MRI, a group of institutions with the common goal of uplifting the lives of Filipinos.

The RVR Siklab Awards was launched in 2018 as part of the PHINMA Group's 60 years of making lives better celebration and to mark RVR’s 100th birth anniversary. It has recognized five exceptional individuals as its inaugural batch of awardees in 2019: JB Tan, co-founder of iVolunteer and The Good Store PH; Clarissa Delgado, co-founder and CEO of Teach for the Philippines; Edgar Elago, founder of Project Scholar, Project ADAMMS (Adopt a Mamanwa, a Manobo student), and Cooltura Couture; Gary Ayuste, founder of BEEngo Farm; and Melissa Yap, founder and executive director of Got Heart Foundation.

“This year, we hope to expand our search and connect with potential partners to be able to provide a wider platform for young entrepreneurs who have made a lasting impact in their own communities. PHINMA, in line with our business as a force of good advocacy, will continue to recognize the passion, dedication, and energy of our youth in working towards a better future for our country through the Siklab Awards,” said Peter Perfecto, PHINMA Vice President for Public Affairs and Siklab selection committee member.

Groups and individuals may nominate a potential Siklab awardee by filling out the online nomination form at bit.ly/RVRSIKLAB2023_CallForNominations. The nomination period will be open until April 15, 2023.

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About PHINMA

PHINMA is a proudly-Filipino conglomerate that seeks to make lives better through successfully run and profitable businesses in education, construction materials, property development and hospitality. We aim to give communities, not only in the Philippines but wherever else we might find the need, improved access to the essentials of a dignified life.

About RVR Siklab Awards

The Ramon V. del Rosario Siklab Awards is a national search organized by PHINMA and DLSU Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business (RVRCOB) for young entrepreneurs who have made lives better for their communities through their work and shall ignite the spark for other young leaders to become positive change makers of tomorrow. It seeks to honor individuals who are established leaders, who display an entrepreneurial spirit, who embody a passion to make lives better, and who have a proven commitment to nation building.

Eligibility:

● Filipino citizens or holders of a Philippine passport

● Those of Filipino ethnicity whose work has made an impact on a community in the Philippines

● 25 to 40 years old (on July 1, 2023)

● Must possess a significant leadership role in an organization for at least three years

● Must exemplify the following qualities of entrepreneurial spirit, impact of business or social enterprise, corporate citizenship, and social responsibility

● Must not have been charged with any case nor have any pending cases in any courts

More information on the RVR Siklab Awards is available on its official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RVRSiklabAwards.

Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Partners with USAID Philippines for Watershed Rehabilitation in Iloilo and Negros Occidental

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Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc. (CCFPI) continues to support community access to clean, safe water through its partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Philippines and non-government organizations, for projects that improve watershed conservation and promote a water-secure future in Iloilo and Negros Occidental.

To formalize the partnership, CCFPI and USAID signed two Memoranda of Agreement, one for the Iloilo Water Resilience Initiative Project and another for Sustaining Watershed Health through Sustainable Livelihood and Agroforestry Project in Negros Occidental last March 22 at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

(from left to right) Green Forum Western Visayas Principal Coordinator Melvin Purzuelo; CRS Philippines Subregional Country Representative Sanda Rihtman; Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Chairman Tony del Rosario; USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn and; Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines President Cecile Alcantara represented their respective organizations to cement their partnership for the IWARI program in Iloilo.

The Iloilo Water Resilience Initiative (IWARI) Project aims to promote climate resilience and help enhance water availability from the Tigum-Aganan Watershed and Iloilo-Batiano Watershed for upstream and downstream communities, including Iloilo City, through improved resource management. Through the CCFPI grant, IWARI Project will be implemented on the ground by Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Philippines and Green Forum Western Visayas while USAID shall provide technical oversight. This will address the urgent need for sustainable management of critical watersheds in Iloilo province and ultimately help improve water availability from the watersheds.

(from left to right) Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines President Cecile Alcantara; Chairman Tony del Rosario; USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn and; NEDF President Wilhelmina Gonzales signed the Memorandum of Understanding for the SWATH Project in Negros Occidental.

Meanwhile, the Sustaining Watershed Health through Sustainable Livelihood and Agroforestry (SWATH) Project in Negros Occidental aims to implement agroforestry and watershed conservation activities to help protect the province’s sources of freshwater, particularly the Himogaan River Watershed and Sicaba River Watershed — ensuring sustainable water resources for the farming communities and households of Negros Occidental residents. Through the CCFPI grant, the SWATH Project will be implemented on the ground by Negros Economic Development Foundation (NEDF) while USAID Philippines shall provide technical oversight.

Wolvit offers proactive steps against early hair loss in new digital ad campaign

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 Studiens found the use of Wolvit has a positive effect on one’s skin, hair, and nails

Discovering the signs of early hair loss can be one of the most stressful parts of adulthood. It’s not only a signal of aging, but potentially a sign of other issues with the body that need addressing. This is the scenario that biotin supplement Wolvit has highlighted in their two newest digital ads.

THE DIGITAL ADS

The first of the videos, “Night Out,” shows two young men hanging out at a restaurant. When one finds a hair in his food and goes to complain, he comes to the unfortunate realization that it is his own hair that has been shedding into the food.

Meanwhile, in the video “Hinala,” a married woman becomes suspicious that her husband is having an affair when she finds loose hairs on his clothes. When she wakes up to find her pillow covered in loose hairs, she realizes that she’s the source and not some mystery woman.

Marco Elmer Manus, Group Product Manager at Kusum, Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. Brand Office, spoke about how the recent digital ads captures the experience many people have. “When people start to lose their hair, it can be quite a shock. If you don’t know what’s happening to your body, it can lead to a loss of confidence,” said Manus. “That’s why we want everyone to know that it could be a sign of biotin deficiency. This isn’t something many people to look out for, and it’s a problem that can be solved.”

 Early hair loss due to biotin deficiency can lead to a loss of confidence.

WHAT IS BIOTIN DEFICIENCY?

Biotin is used by the body to produce important proteins like keratin. The body needs keratin to maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails. Studies have found that those suffering from biotin deficiency often experience symptoms that could include excessive premature hair loss, brittle nails, and dried out skin.

Those suffering from biotin deficiency often experience symptoms that could include excessive premature hair loss.

HOW DOES WOLVIT HELP?

Manus reminds everyone that the more one understands a problem, the better equipped one is to solve it. “When your body is giving you signs, you shouldn’t ignore it. If you’re suffering from biotin deficiency, it’s important to act immediately. Exercise, eat well, and take Wolvit.”

Wolvit works by giving the body the biotin it needs to produce healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Biotin is used by the body to produce important proteins like keratin.

Wolvit is now available for purchase in drugstores Watsons and Mercury Drug nationwide.

Wolvit works by giving the body the biotin it needs to produce healthy hair, skin, and nails. A recent clinical study conducted in Ukraine found that the use of Wolvit has a positive effect on one’s skin, hair, and nails. This makes it ideal for those suffering from biotin deficiency and its various symptoms. Another study published in Skin Appendage Disorders, also found that cases where biotin was used to combat hair loss showed evidence of clinical improvement.

Wolvit is now available for purchase in drugstores Watsons and Mercury Drug nationwide.

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REFERENCES

A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss by Deepa P. Patel,

Shane M. Swink, & Leslie Castelo-Soccio. Skin Appendage

Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1159/000462981.

Optimizing the treatment of onychomycosis using products

that improve the structure of the nail plate and its growth by

Y.F. Kutasevych, I.A. Oleynik, A.S. Chehovskaya, I.A. Pyatikop.

State Establishment “Institute of Dermatology and Venereology

of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine.”

Christmas Always Finds Its Way - Coca-Cola™ celebrates the unstoppable force of bringing families together in this year’s holiday campaign

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Holidays are indeed coming, and Coca-Cola is celebrating the moment with the launch of its new campaign–“Christmas Always Finds Its Way”–which celebrates the unstoppable, magical force of Christmas in navigating all obstacles to bring people together.

In 2021, Coca-Cola launched Real Magic®, its new global brand platform and philosophy that invites everyone, everywhere to celebrate the magic of humanity. Central to the philosophy is the belief that we find magic when we come together and share experiences.

In this year’s multi-channel, digital, and experiential campaign, Coca-Cola is set to create a series of memorable and distinct moments across the Philippines, designed to celebrate and create that festive magic across the country, while observing the special role that gatherings, meals, and traditions play in bringing families, friends, and communities together. After all, Coca-Cola has always been part of every Filipino celebration.

"December is the peak of holiday celebrations in the Philippines, when families and loved ones come together to share stories, exchange laughter, and bond over meals and drinks,” said Cesar Gangoso, East Region Frontline Marketing Director of Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific. “We are delighted to hear stories of Filipinos who always celebrate Christmas with a bottle or two of Coca-Cola, so with this year's campaign, we want to better enrich the festivities through a series of activities in the Philippines that can bring a truly magical experience.”

The Christmas Always Finds Its Way campaign of Coca-Cola is headlined by the film ”Just Like Mama Used to Make,” directed by German filmmakers Dorian and Daniel and created by Grey Global. As part of the Real Magic® global brand platform, the film celebrates families and friends, past and present, as well as those shared recipes, memories, and traditions that bind generations together over a Christmas meal.

The campaign starts with a film, “Just Like Mama Used to Make,” directed by German filmmakers Dorian and Daniel and created by Grey Global. The film tells the heart-warming story of how a son’s memory of his mother is kept close through the preparation of a treasured family recipe, continuing to bring his family and new generations together for moments of magic at Christmas.

“The long association of Coca-Cola with Christmas is something we treasure and, this year, we're back with a new campaign that we hope people all over the world will love,” shared Selman Careaga, president of Coca-Cola trademark. “It celebrates families and friends, past and present, as well as those shared recipes, memories, and traditions that bind generations together over the Christmas meal.”

In wider plans to mark the festive season, the brand’s iconic Caravans will return. For almost three decades, since they first lit up the small screen in a TV ad in the mid-1990s, Coca-Cola has built its Caravans truck asset as a powerful and tangible icon of Christmas across the globe. This year, Coca-Cola Caravans are back, and the brand will be curating a truly magical, festive experience centered around sharing meals with an ice-cold Coca-Cola drink. Reimagined as ‘The Coca-Cola Care-A-Van’ in the Philippines, Coca-Cola aims to takeover over forty food fests in different parts of the country, with the goal of bringing communities around the Philippines together for festive cheer.

Coca-Cola Philippines officially kicked off this year's campaign Christmas Always Finds Its Way, a campaign that celebrates the power of Christmas to find its way no matter what, in helping us navigate all obstacles to get together and share meals and stories during the festive season. The campaign is centered around the Care-A-Van Community Takeovers, which was launched at Greenfield District last December 3, 2022, headlined by Coke Studio Artist ALAMAT, games, and Coca-Cola products. The Care-A-Van will hold stops at 41 other food fests nationwide to bring the magic of Christmas closer to communities.

The first Coca-Cola Care-A-Van Community Takeover was in Pasig City’s Greenfield District on December 3, 2022. With a jolly Santa Claus holding a bottle of Coca-Cola painted on its body, the iconic truck welcomed guests and served as a photo wall for taking festive photos. Food tents surrounding the venue also provided meals and Coca-Cola products to be enjoyed during the program. A dynamic performance by Coke Studio artist and rising P-Pop group ALAMAT, raffle draws, games, and other activities also contributed to the lively atmosphere.

Coca-Cola continues to not only refresh people with delicious drinks, but to also refresh communities. In partnership with the Ronald McDonald House of Charities Philippines, the Coca-Cola Care-A-Van Community Takeover will make a stop at Sitio Pintor, Rizal to host a Christmas party and give away meals and Coca-Cola products to 100 underserved families—bringing the spirit of Christmas to whoever needs it.

Lastly, the digital experience will continue as Coca-Cola launches “Call from Santa” web platform that will be available on iOS, Android, Win, and Mac. Filipinos can also access the platform by scanning a QR code in select Coca-Cola bottles. Anyone who wishes to send a surprise to their loved ones can request a personalized video message from Santa. With the Philippines being one of the largest diasporas globally, the platform is a welcome initiative, especially for those who are out of the country.

“We all know how special Christmas is to Filipinos, but we also recognize that there are many out there who can’t be home during the holiday season due to various circumstances or obligations, even as they yearn to be among their loved ones to celebrate a Christmas meal,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for the East Franchise Operations of Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific. “Since they cannot be with their family and friends, we at Coca-Cola want to find a way to help them enjoy Christmas and experience the magic of the season.”

Indeed, Christmas this year will still be festive, especially for those with impossible journeys, as Coca-Cola helps find ways to bring Filipinos together and remind us that the festivities lie in the moments we share with our loved ones.

To learn more about Coca-Cola, visit us at coca-cola.com.ph or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.

Moira dela Torre stars in Home Credit’s The Great 0% Interest Festival campaign video

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Following the rollout of the biggest and grandest 0% interest sale nationwide, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the lifestyle partner of every Filipino, launched a new campaign video this holiday season for the brand’s The Great 0% Interest Festival, headlined by Home Credit’s brand ambassador, Moira dela Torre.

Launched through Home Credit’s Facebook and YouTube pages, the new campaign video took inspiration from a famous Philippine reality TV singing competition in which Moira was a judge. In the newly released campaign video, Moira plays as one of the panelists on Home Credit’s “Buy-dol Philippines.”

The campaign video, which aims to promote and drive awareness about Home Credit’s The Great 0% Interest Festival, shows some Buy-dol hopefuls performing songs about the products that customers can get through Home Credit at 0% interest installment plan this holiday season.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZ3b7ueTrYU

“With Christmas being the most festive shopping season of the year, we at Home Credit want to give our customers the access to the widest range of items offered at the most affordable installment plans yet so far. With the launch of our biggest 0% interest sale, we want to make the shopping experience of every Filipino more sulit this holiday season. We’re joined by our brand ambassador Moira dela Torre to help celebrate the holidays in a fun and meaningful way with Home Credit,” shared HCPH’s Chief Marketing Officer Sheila Paul.

Here are some BTS shots with Home Credit’s brand ambassador Moira dela Torre:

Home Credit’s The Great 0% Interest Festival

Filipinos love to go shopping, most especially during the holiday season. I mean, there’s nothing wrong with rewarding yourself after a year-long hard work and putting most of your earnings into your savings. But if you’re a true Filipino, you know that even we spend up our money shopping during the holiday, we still want the best deals for all our purchases!

With Home Credit’s The Great 0% Interest Festival, customers may choose from a wide selection of over 50,000 products – from smartphones and laptops, home appliances and furniture to bicycles and hardware, sports and gym equipment, and many more – offered at 0% interest rates at almost 10,000 partner stores across the country.

Customers may get their dream smartphones and laptops from OPPO, realme, vivo, Samsung, Xiaomi, Acer, Apple, Huawei, Asus and Lenovo at an affordable monthly installment plan through Home Credit. Furniture and appliances from Home Credit’s retail partners, such as SM appliances, Robinsons Appliances, Abenson, FC Home, Home Along, AllHome, Emcor, and Automatic Centre, can also be purchased at a flexible payment option of 0% interest.

Ready to shop? Download the My Home Credit app or visit Home Credit’s partner brands and retail stores near you. Shoppers can now experience The Great 0% Interest Festival and make the most affordable purchases until January 31!

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). To learn more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are encouraged to download the app on Google Play to know more about the latest promos and see what is new in the Marketplace.