Allianz PNB Life calls on motorists to support bike safety and green mobility

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Why sharing the road safely with bicycles is good for the environment

As the need for social distancing forces governments around the world to reduce public transportation services, many have turned to bikes instead. In the Philippines, the uptick of bike users is even more notable not just because it has one of the highest coronavirus caseloads in Asia, but also because it has some of the region’s tightest urban congestion.

Despite the increased ubiquity of bikes due to the pandemic, Manila’s roads remain particularly hazardous for biking, in part because some drivers regard cyclists as obstacles. In fact, monitoring data from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority indicated that bicycle accidents increased to 2,606 last year, compared to 1,759 during the previous year.

The Allianz PNB Life Ride Safe Pit Stop, the country's first solar-powered bike pit stop, is unveiled in San Juan City.

As part of its Ride Safe campaign, Allianz PNB Life is urging motorists to be more proactive participants in making the roads safer for bicycles. “Ride Safe is a campaign in support of cycling for sustainable cities. As a global sustainability leader, Allianz launched this campaign to encourage more Filipinos to rekindle an interest in cycling, which promotes low-carbon emissions and safe, green transport,” said Allianz PNB Life President and CEO Alexander Grenz.

Allianz PNB Life President and CEO Alex Grenz (left) and Chief Marketing Officer Gino Riola at the pit stop's repair station. The pit stop also has a resting and parking area for bikers.

A road for all

Drivers sometimes feel that roads are for vehicles only and that bicycles have no right to be there. Allianz PNB Life urges motorists to change this mindset, especially now that bikes are a lot more common due to necessity.

“We need to think of bike riders as equals who are just as entitled to the roadway as car drivers,” said Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer of Allianz PNB Life and a bike rider himself. “When we consider bikes as vehicles, we treat cyclists the same as motorists.”

One reason for the lack of awareness regarding road safety for cyclists is the absence of any law governing cycling and cycling safety standards. But with government officials working towards making the roads safer for bike riders, cars will be sharing the road with other modes of transport more safely than before.

According to Riola, a national law that promotes bike safety on the road is a very welcome change for the biking community, especially as more and more Filipinos now turn to bicycles for their daily commute.

Grenz and Riola stand with San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and First Lady Keri Zamora at the blessing of the pit stop and the city's initiative of bike-share program.

Biking towards sustainability

Globally, Allianz has always been a staunch advocate of the environment and has topped the Down Jones Sustainability Index from 2017 to 2019, making it one of the world’s most sustainable insurers. With its Ride Safe campaign, Allianz PNB Life looks to encourage more Filipinos to cycle as a means towards more sustainable and livable cities. Last year, Allianz provided the City of San Juan new protected on-road cycling facilities, such as bollards and safety signs, as well the country’s first solar-powered bike pitstop.

According to Allianz PNB Life, bike safety is an essential component of this mission. “The national bike law is a much-needed step towards not just creating bike-friendly roads and communities, but towards building more sustainable cities,” said Riola. “After all, a bike lane isn’t just a bike lane that keeps riders safe, it’s also allowing people to switch to another mode of transport—to one that promotes health and doesn’t consume fuel.”

 “Cars and bikes can co-exist. Other cities around the world have proven that,” said Riola. “What is needed is that motorists and bikers respect each other and the rules of the road are followed.”

If the many newly opened bike stores are any indication, bikes are here to stay. And that is good for drivers, the environment, and the community.

UFC Gives Back to Families in Need With 50 Acts of Kindness

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The year 2020 has turned out to be a shining moment for UFC, which is celebrating their 50th anniversary as an essential part of the Filipino culinary experience. With deep gratitude for this major milestone, UFC chose to give back—to families in need—with their 50 Acts of Kindness campaign. As part of the event, UFC asked several celebrity endorsers to nominate families who have lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic. 

Among the select celebrities were power couple Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli, who nominated 53-year-old Salvador R. Tiburcio as their beneficiary. Before the pandemic, Salvador had a regular income as a maintenance man. When the government instituted measures to curb the spread of the virus, Salvador found himself stranded at home, unable to travel to his job site. Since then, Salvador has been making ends meet by doing freelance maintenance work around his apartment building. 

“Apektado ang buong pamilya ko. Meron nga sila mga trabaho pero apektado pa rin sila sa sitwasyon ngayon,” Salvador laments as he recalls the debilitating effects of the pandemic. 

Last December 19 and 20, Salvador, along with five other families, received a Sama-samang Sarap ng Pamilya bundle from UFC. The bundle came with a sari-sari store package that included brand-new signage as well as various NurtiAsia products and grocery items. They also received a bicycle with a basket for groceries and a laptop with pocket Wi-Fi. These gifts sought to give the beneficiaries the means to sustain their families in the new year.

Another nominee of Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli was 47-year-old Myra B. Togalon. An experienced seamstress, Myra lost her sewing projects at schools when these shut down in response to the pandemic. With a husband, child, and a PWD sibling at home to support, Myra had to take on work as a cleaning lady around her neighborhood. 

The past year has left an unforgettable mark on Myra. “Hinding-hindi ko po malilimutan itong pandemya na ito,” said Myra. “Sunod-sunod po ang trahedya lalo na po nung nawala ang aking mother. Ilan po kami sa bahay na kumakain tapos kaming dalawa lang po mag-asawa ang nakayod."

Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli’s third and last nominee was Rowel Seranias, a 32-year-old company tailor who’s been struggling to feed his family ever since the pandemic hit. 

The famed Guerrero siblings also participated in this campaign. Together they nominated 48-year-old Vilma Sedaya, the Guerrero family’s longtime laundry lady who also works at a local market. 

Award-winning chef Tatung Sarthou also helped with UFC’s 50 Acts of Kindness. He nominated 35-year-old Billy Ray A. Pascual, a cook who prepared and sold kimchi to help support his family when he lost his job during the pandemic. Chef Tatung also nominated 31-year-old April Sioson, a sales clerk who toils to support her child’s education. 

Salvador and his fellow beneficiaries could barely contain their joy upon receiving UFC’s Sama-samang Sarap ng Pamilya packages. They are profoundly grateful to UFC for sharing their goodies with them this holiday season, as well as providing them with a sustainable source of income for the new year. 

These beneficiaries’ heartwarming stories give us a glimpse of the intrepid Filipino spirit which shines through even in the darkest times. UFC honors and celebrates these people who continue to embody the meaning of sama-samang sarap ng pamilya every day. 

Turn this holiday season with an extraordinary smile using this limited edition of Colgate toothpaste, now available in Shopee

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Even 2020 has been a challenging year, Christmas time continues. Just keep smiling, because life is beautiful and there’s so much to smile about. A smile also tells us that the world is full of endless possibilities.

A smile with love behind it has so many positive effects on us: It stimulates the brain, makes you come across as friendly, and brings joy to the people around you. Whether you say hello to a stranger you pass in the road or wave to your neighbor while you’re on a run, adding a smile to these simple acts of kindness can make someone’s day merry and special.

Lighten up, just enjoy life, smile more. Give the gift of a Colgate Smile this Season with Colgate Christmas toothpaste. It has a very refreshing Merry Mint flavor in a unique gel form with green Christmas Trees and Red Confetti strips! 

This is a perfect gift this holiday season as it comes with a very beautiful packaging where you can write your special message too!

Let's turn this holiday season with an extraordinary smile using this limited edition of Colgate 

toothpaste, now available in Shopee.

You can even win a P2,500 Noche Buena package from Colgate for you and your family by joining the #SmileStrong Christmas promo.

Joining the #SmileStrong This Christmas is as easy as 1-2-3!

Step  1: Buy 300 pesos worth of Colgate Products including the Colgate Christmas Toothpaste

Step  2: On Facebook, post a photo of you and your loved one with the Colgate Christmas Toothpaste

Step 3: Be one of the 100 winners of the Noche Buena Package worth P2500.

For every winner, Colgate Philippines will be donating a Noche Buena package to a family in need.

Don't forget to keep your receipts as proof of purchase. The deadline for entries is on December 15, 2020. This promo is open for Metro Manila residents only. 

Limited Edition Colgate Merry Christmas Toothpaste at Shopee for only ₱119 from ₱129.

Let's #SmileStrong this Christmas! Get your Colgate products only on Shopee! Add to cart now at https://shopee.ph/Colgate-Merry-Christmas-Toothpaste-95g-i.45237836.4255962349

For more information about Shopee NewLimited-Edition Colgate Christmas Toothpaste, visit https://shopee.ph/colgatepalmolivephilippines

Shop, win, and #SmileStrong this Christmas! #SmileStrong with #ColgatePH 

Download Shopee for free on App Store or Google Play Store.

Durex advances Protection and Preparedness Education Campaign by donating PPEs to HIV-advocate groups

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Durex, a brand that advocates HIV Awareness and health safety, donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to local HIV-advocate groups as part of their Protection and Preparedness Education Campaign, just in time for World AIDS Day.

A total of 1000 face masks, 1000 face shields, and 7000 boxes of Durex Condoms were each turned over to LoveYourself, The Red Whistle, and the PLHIV Response Center to help boost their efforts to combat HIV/AIDS amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and promote health safety.

The brand has been consistent in its efforts to spread HIV Awareness ever since the lockdown started here in the country. Launching the Protection and Preparedness Education campaign last September, Durex aims to further raise awareness on the importance of using PPEs like face masks and condoms to curb the COVID-19 pandemic and HIV epidemic in the country. They aim to remind Filipinos that alongside COVID-19, HIV is still a growing health crisis and that it deserves everyone’s utmost attention.

As of December 3, there have been 435,413 total reported cases of COVID-19 and around 81,000 total reported cases of HIV in the country.

The campaign seeks to educate Filipinos on health safety and the importance of practicing safe sex even during quarantine through a series of fun and informational videos with Boys Night Out and other personalities. 

These videos, which can be streamed via Durex’s Facebook and YouTube pages, tackle the best PPEs to use in the new normal and provide tips on how to stay safe and protected both up there and down there during this difficult time.

World Vision ensures a bright future for the most vulnerable children thru Give Hope campaign

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Months have passed since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and it is still a great risk to a lot of lives today. But even though children have not been significantly affected by the virus, they continue to be extremely vulnerable to the negative impacts. 

Last May 2020, World Vision conducted a rapid assessment and the study revealed that 92% of the household respondents’ livelihoods were disrupted, with the daily or casual laborers as those severely affected. This resulted to 60%-68% of the households being unable to meet their family’s daily requirements to survive.

The assessment showed that food security has worsened during the pandemic as their average food spending was further reduced from Php 1,797.06 to Php 1,184.82. This shows the importance of immediate planning and implementation of projects/ activities that will cater to our kababayans in need. 

World Vision launched “Give Hope” campaign last June to appeal for school kits for the children in its assisted communities. Spearheaded by World Vision Ambassadors Joyce Pring and Leia Valenciano, the goal of the campaign was to make continued learning possible for the children despite the interruption of classes in the formal education setting brought about by the pandemic. 

Through initiatives like “Give Hope”, World Vision continues to advocate the welfare of the most vulnerable children as among the priorities today. The organization invites its constituents and the public to keep on engaging in opportunities that will not only spark hope but change the lives of more children and their communities. 

Through the generous support of its individual donors and corporate partners, 14,549 children from World Vision assisted communities have received school kits in time for the opening of the school year. The contents of each school kit are appropriate to the grade level of the children. 

“On behalf of the thousands of children who received their school kits, thank you very much. This noble endeavor is a strong reminder that no matter what the situation is, hope that is found in the Lord will find its way to our hearts and minds, and ultimately allow us to enjoy helping one another. God bless you a hundredfold”, said World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte. 

World Vision would like to acknowledge the generosity of its corporate partner, Robinsons Supermarket Corporation, for sponsoring 400 school kits. The organization would also like to recognize all the individual donors who contributed so that thousands of children today are inspired to keep pursuing their dreams and live life to the full. 

For updates, like and follow World Vision Philippines on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit their official website www.worldvision.org.ph. 

About World Vision 

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, their families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by its Christian faith and values, it is dedicated to working with the world’s most vulnerable people. It serves and collaborates with all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. 

Shopee partners with World Vision to support young Filipino learners through Abutin Na10 campaign

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“Abutin Na10”, a fundraising campaign launched by the Department of Education (DepEd) and World Vision last June. The initiative aims to ensure that millions of Filipino learners today continue to have access to good education despite the pandemic. Funds raised will directly support DepEd’s implementation of multi-modal learning approaches.

Months have passed, and many have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 health crisis. The children living in the poorest of the poor are among the most vulnerable. Since its launch, “Abutin Na10” has drawn support from various public and private sectors. It shows that aside from health and other basic needs, the nation recognizes education as a high priority today.

World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte

Among those who have recently partnered with World Vision for “Abutin Na10” is one of the country’s leading e-commerce platforms, Shopee. Shopee has been an advocate for education through its initiatives or programs for the less privileged children.

Shopee Associate Director Martin Yu

“Shopee is happy to be the exclusive e-commerce partner of World Vision for the Abutin Na10 campaign. This project aims to support Filipino students during this academic year, amidst the pandemic. Shopee values the importance of education and believes that learning shouldn’t stop despite the current challenges. We will continue to collaborate with other organizations to come up with initiatives that will benefit the community of learners,” said Shopee’s Associate Director Martin Yu.

Sec Leonor Briones

Through this partnership, DepEd, World Vision, and Shopee hope to widen the campaign’s reach and tap into the generous hearts of fellow Filipinos here and abroad so that more young learners have an opportunity to reach their dreams.

“World Vision in partnership with the Department of Education launched Abutin Na10 to help learners cope with learning continuity challenges brought by COVID19. It is heartwarming to know that more and more organizations like Shopee want to help in providing them gadgets and/or printed learning modules so learners can study safely in their homes”, shared World Vision’s National Director Rommel Fuerte. “We pray that God will continue to bless you as you give hope to children”.

To know more about the “Abutin Na10” campaign and how you can support thru Shopee, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopee-world-vision.

 

About World Vision

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.

Gretchen Ho inspires young girls to dream big through World Vision’s 1,000 Girls campaign

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Gretchen Ho is the official ambassador in the Philippines for World Vision’s campaign, “1,000 Girls”. This year’s theme is “#GirlsCan”. By focusing on issues faced by young girls today due to the on-going pandemic, the challenge is to respond to their most urgent needs to help realize their full potential and have a better future. 

Gretchen’s support for this campaign is rooted on her belief that every girl has the capacity to be empowered and to overcome, but she also acknowledged the importance of support from family and friends. “It isn’t always easy to fight on your own. That’s why we need to provide them with support, guidance, resources and opportunities to be able to maximize their potential. Many girls are at a disadvantage because of their economic background or family set-ups. Sometimes, the only thing that a girl needs is a helping hand,” said Gretchen.

Through World Vision’s child sponsorship program, these young girls will have access to learning and development opportunities that are sustainable, community-driven, and long-term solutions. 

Gretchen sees education as one of the best ways to equip the youth. “Through education, a world of opportunities opens up for a young girl. If that young girl is able to build her self-confidence through those opportunities, there is potential to become a leader,” explained Gretchen. “In today’s world, where there is so much injustice, inequality, hatred and discrimination, we need the strengths of a female to overcome. We need more female voices to be heard”.

World Vision partners with different stakeholders including the local community to build resilient families and create an enabling environment for the children. By allowing them to have access to education, nutritious food, and clean water, to enjoy quality health services, and to participate in spiritual nurture activities, these young girls are being empowered so they too can one day be agents of change.

“World Vision is excited to share with everyone an opportunity to help children meet their needs. The 1000 Girls campaign is one that highlights empowerment for education, health and protection. Your support will give hope to every child especially during this time,” said Rommel Fuerte, World Vision’s National Director.

“My message to all the young girls out there is — I believe you can make it. Don’t be afraid to dream big. Make the most out of what you have. If you have less in life, ask for help. If you have more in life, help others. There is room for success for everyone. Believe in yourself, be resourceful, be creative and you will conquer,” shared Gretchen. 

To know how you can support “1,000 Girls” by sponsoring a girl today, visit https://www.worldvision.org.ph/1000girls/. You may also follow /worldvisionph on Facebook and @worldvisionphl on Instagram for updates. 

About World Vision 

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. 

Leia Valenciano takes the lead in inspiring children thru World Vision’s Give Hope campaign

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World Vision in the Philippines welcomes to its family Leia Valenciano as its ambassador for Give Hope campaign.

Nataleia Martine, known to many as “Leia”, is the 3-year old daughter of Director Paolo Valenciano and wife Photographer/ Graphic Designer Samantha Godinez-Valenciano. Paolo and Sam are also World Vision ambassadors and actively supporting the organization thru various projects.

Give Hope is about letting children’s dreams live on

Based on World Vision’s rapid assessment in the Philippines on the impact of COVID-19 to children, their families and communities, learning opportunities or education for the young generation is one of the most critical problems in the country.

As a child-focused non-profit organization that is committed to ensuring that children are able to reach their full potential, World Vision launched Give Hope to challenge the nation to work together in making our homes and communities places where children’s dreams continue to be realized.

Through the help of generous partners, World Vision aims to reach 28,000 children in their partner communities nationwide through this initiative.

No one is too young to make a change

Aside from encouraging the public to contribute in raising funds that will assist the children in continuing their education, World Vision believes that anyone can make a difference and give hope no matter how young or old you are!

“We support this back to school campaign and the importance of still equipping kids with learning materials to give them hope and keep them driven to learn even if they're not in their usual school setting,” shared Sam Valenciano. “We as parents have experienced the anxiety of adjusting to the new normal. We believe that this program will help not only the children but the parents as well”

Just like her parents, Leia is excited that she is beginning her journey with World Vision where at the age of 3, she is able to make a long-lasting impact for the benefit of the most vulnerable children today.

“This World Vision campaign is made even sweeter with Leia, one of our newest and youngest ambassadors! As she brings big smiles to our hearts, we hope that you too will continue to give hope to children though education. Together with Leia, let’s give school kits to many students across the country”, said Mr. Rommel Fuerte, World Vision National Director.

Join Leia Valenciano in supporting World Vision’s Give Hope campaign! Click this link to donate: https://www.worldvision.org.ph/donate/school-kits/

To know more about World Vision and its programs for the most vulnerable children and communities in the Philippines, you may visit www.worldvision.org.ph

DOT celebrates the tourism’s contribution to Filipinos with new campaign

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The Department of Tourism launched its latest campaign, The Tourism Decade, with the release of its latest AVP, a microsite with stories and mini-documentaries of individuals and the preview of the multi-media exhibition, Onwards: The Philippine Tourism in Intramuros. The launch event was held at Museo de Intramuros on September 27, 2019.

The Tourism Decade campaign commemorates the 10th anniversary of Republic Act 9593, better known as the Tourism Act of 2009. The campaign focuses on how the tourism industry provides inclusive growth and sustainable livelihood that benefits every Filipino, all made possible by R.A. 9593.

DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat 

“The Tourism Decade celebration is an event not only to commemorate the law, but also to honor the travel industry’s contributions to the improvement of the lives of the Filipino people, and to bring attention to tourism’s functions as an engine of investment, employment, growth and national development,” said DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat in her keynote speech.

“If not for the implementation of Tourism Act, it would have been difficult for us to see the rising impact of the tourism industry on the country’s economic progress over the years, reaching a 12.7% contribution to the nation’s gross domestic product in 2018. This continued growth has proven tourism’s direct linkages to various socio-economic development activities that have been helping improve our people’s quality of life,” Sec. Puyat emphasized.

Since the enactment of Tourism Act in 2009, foreign arrivals have more than doubled, growing from 3 million in 2009 to 7.1 million individuals by the end of 2018. Domestic tourism expenditure also grew from PhP 508.8 billion in 2009 to PhP 3.2 trillion last year.

Sustainable tourism through comprehensive regulations

Signed into law on May 12, 2009, by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the Tourism Act was authored by Senator Richard J. Gordon and 1st District of Bohol Representative Edgar M. Chatto.

Rep. Chatto mentioned that the creation of the law was aimed at espousing holistic and sustainable tourism that would guide all stakeholders in the industry.

“Tourism is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world that can bring in more jobs, more livelihood and more economic opportunities for the younger generation,” Rep. Chatto noted.

Senator Gordon, meanwhile, talked about inclusivity of all sectors in promoting and managing the programs for the tourism industry. “Tourism is a country undertaking, lahat tayo dapat magparticipate—mayaman o mahirap dapat tayong magparticipate; mayaman o mahirap pwedeng kumita dyan, kaya dapat ipaglaban natin yan,” he said.

He underscored the provisions of the law for infrastructure development, and identification of new tourism destinations or establishment of new tourism enterprise zones to enhance the income-generating capacities of the people.

People as the heart of the tourism campaign

With the launch of the “Tourism Decade Campaign,” the DOT underscores the fruits of the law’s implementation by revealing the heart-warming stories of communities and personalities who have been positively transformed by tourism.

“This tourism campaign pays homage to the people, organizations and communities who have reaped the benefits of sustainable tourism as envisioned by the proponents of the law,” Sec. Puyat shared.

DOT recognizes the narratives of our people as the heart of our tourism industry, delivering inspiration, excitement and joy to both local and foreign visitors.

The campaign features the stories of Whang-Od, the century-old Mambabatok of Kalinga; Rambo, the dog tour guide of Batad, Ifugao; the Deafinite Tour Guiding Service of Intramuros for its deaf-friendly tours; the Lake Pandin Women Rafters of San Pablo, Laguna; and Bobby Adrao, an advocate for whale shark protection in Donsol, Sorsogon.

Further down south, the campaign puts the spotlight on two Puerto Princesa locals: Angelo Cayabo, a former dishwasher who established dolphin-watching tours in Palawan; and Eva Valledor, founder of Binuatan Creations, a successful sustainable community livelihood program famous for their weaved products. It also covered the experiences of the Loboc River Choir in Bohol; Laida Escoltura, a known home cook from General Luna, Siargao; and the indigenous T’Boli people of South Cotabato who exemplify how cultural tourism can enhance Philippine living traditions.

As part of the “Tourism Decade Campaign,” video documentaries of the featured personalities and communities can be accessed online at thetourismdecade.philippines.travel.

Another highlight is the preview of Onward: The Philippines Tourism Decade Exhibition at the former site of San Ignacio Church and an outdoor interactive installation in Plaza Roma, both located inside Intramuros’ historic walls. The project is a testament to tourism’s impact on Filipino lives, that it is seen, felt, and experienced not just by those who are able to travel, but also by those whose lives have significantly improved since 2009. The exhibition is not only a celebration of these 10 victorious years, it is also an affirmation that we continue to take the right steps forward, onward.

The exhibition will soon be open to the public and will run until December 2019, and admission is free. 

To add more flavor to the celebration, there were performances from local talents such as the UP Padayon Rondalla and soprano Stephanie Quintin from the UP College of Music. The T’boli dancers of Lake Sebu, poets, and other cultural acts provided further entertainment.

Even after 10 years of the Tourism Act’s implementation, the DOT remains steadfast in its vision of developing a highly competitive and environmentally sustainable tourism industry that creates jobs and opportunities for Filipinos, bringing inclusive growth to all, and continues being a major component in nation building.

Real Talk - Maxi-Peel Encourages Women with Troubled Skin : “Wag Mong Isuko Ang Laban!”

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For real, acne breakouts can be frustrating, and they can also leave scars on the face and other areas of the body. Some people find that acne scars are an unwanted reminder of a painful and bothersome condition.

Have you ever been judged because of your looks? Or rejected because your skin wasn’t perfect? 

Recently, we met the four brave women who experienced negativity that have impacted their lives in a lot of ways simply because of a skin condition — acne.

We see it every day, a lot of us have had acne at some point in our lives, but for these women, it’s the source of an undying insecurity, causing them pain that goes beyond skin deep, scarring not only their faces, but also their self-esteem.

And in a society where looks and aesthetic is very influential, thefight for respect and equality is a lifelong struggle for people with pimples. 

But that fight is a fight that Maxi-Peel is unwilling to give up. The brand’s mission is to amplify the voices of those who have been misjudged, ridiculed, and discriminated because of their acne through their newest campaign — 

“'Wag Mong Isuko ang Laban”. (Don’t Give Up the Fight)

Maxi-Peel puts their brand on the line with a documentary campaignthat follows 4 women from different walks of life in a 60-day journey with Maxi-Peel Exfoliant Solutions, capturing real progress, with real results in real time. 

The campaign begins with a heart-wrenching 60-second testimonial video of these 4 women telling everyone what society tells them every day. 

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8Y2RbkvDD4)

“Alam mo Kata, mas maganda ka sana kung kasing kinis ng legs mo yung mukha mo.” 

Kata San Mateo, a digital marketing head and an aspiring artist, recalls a painful moment during her acne breakout. Teary-eyed, she continues, “Siyempre tatawa-tawa lang ako pero sa loob loob ko, sobra na.”

“Bakit siya ‘yung napiling host, eh ang dami niyang pimples?” 

Andrea Roces, a retail manager and an active humanitarian says pimples have affected her work and her credibility, damaging her self-esteem and self-belief, “The confidence I’ve built for many years, it all goes away.”

“Honestly, lately hindi ako lumalabas ng bahay. There’s this misconception na ‘pag ma-pimple ka, madumi ka kaya sometimes I feel hopeless.” 

A former special education teacher, now a full-time mom, Angeline Carandang powers through the negativity, despite an overwhelming feeling of insecurity, “Behind this face, I can be a great mom… matatapos din ‘to, ngayon lang ‘to.”

“Nakulam ka ba… Naagnas ka na” Joepy Libo-on, a cum laude graduate who is now working as a marketing manager, still remembers some of the most painful things people have told her. “Before n’ung sobrang lala talaga ng pimples ko, there was a time na sobrang bumabang self-esteem ko.”

Through real stories from real people, Maxi-Peel aims to open our eyes and minds to the truth behind acne. That removing pimples is notjust about being beautiful, or achieving smoother skin, or to gain more followers, those are just the aesthetic effects. 

The real purpose of the brand is to help Filipinos treat and cure an actual skin condition, boosttheir self-confidence, revive their self-belief, and empower them to have a fighting chance against prejudice and discrimination.

This fight isn’t just about the face, this fight is about facing challenges head on, and acknowledging that it’s only just a phase. Never quitting, never stopping. To all Filipino women out there who have lost their confidence, hope is not lost. 

You can get past this, in your fight against acne and all its inherent negativity, “Wag Mong Isuko Ang Laban”.

Celebrating a Legacy Built on Science and Love JOHNSON’S® celebrates its 125th year through year-long Special activities and promotions

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A well-known and well-loved brand, JOHNSON’S® has been a household name for many years, best care always for for babies and everyone in the whole family. 

JOHNSON’S® has been pioneering and setting global standards in baby skin care for families globally since many can remember. This year marks a special milestone as JOHNSON’S® celebrates 125 years with a series of activities to celebrate its legacy in creating a safer world for babies and their families in the Philippines.

“JOHNSON’S® 125-year legacy is our dedication to giving our best for mothers and babies,” shares Ms. Bessie Colet Campillo, Johnson’s Marketing Manager. “Just as mothers learn from babies, so does Johnson’s. We understand what great lengths mothers go through to give their best for their babies, and that is the same effort we emulate in all the products we develop.  Our products have always been some of the most rigorously tested and safe, globally, and created specifically to care for a baby’s unique needs,” she adds.

“A baby’s needs are very much different than our own. Each sense, from sight to touch, and through all the moments of play and exploration that our babies go through as they develop, are opportunities to nurture their happy and healthy development. All these moments are also opportunities for us to empower parents to maximize bonding with their babies to nurture the best development possible,” she concludes.

In celebration of all the lives JOHNSON’S® has had the privilege to touch, and in honor of all the mothers in the Philippines, the brand has lined up various activities and programs starting January 25, 2018. This will be kicked off with the 125 Years Anthem Video to be launched on Facebook and YouTube on January 25 showcasing Johnson’s dedication throughout the years, followed by a series of online initiatives, special promotions in-store and in e-commerce, as well as on-ground efforts and events to celebrate with every Filipino mom who has grown up with the brand. 

Truly at the heart of the JOHNSON’S® Brand is the commitment to helping create a world made better for moms and babies. All the activities of the brand for 2018 aim to continue building on the vision and legacy of leaving the world better for the benefit of the nation’s babies, and to give back to the families whose lives they have had the privilege of being a part of over the years. 

This also comes with great commitment to continue to always give their best care for years to come.

For more information and updates on the Johnson’s 125 Years Campaign, please visit the brand’s official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JohnsonsBabyPhilippines.

The Coca-Cola Company announces new Global Vision to help a World Without Waste

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The Coca-Cola Company announced today that it is fundamentally reshaping its approach to packaging, with a global goal to help collect and recycle the equivalent of 100% of its packaging by 2030. 

Company Sets Goal to Help Collect and Recycle a Bottle or Can for Every One it Sells by 2030 

This goal is the centerpiece of the Company’s new packaging vision for a World Without Waste, which the Coca-Cola system intends to back with a multi-year investment that includes ongoing work to make packaging 100% recyclable. This begins with the understanding that food and beverage containers are an important part of people’s modern lives but that there is much more to be done to reduce packaging waste globally. 

“The world has a packaging problem – and, like all companies, we have a responsibility to help solve it,” said James Quincey, President and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company. “Through our World Without Waste vision, we are investing in our planet and our packaging to help make this problem a thing of the past.” 

The Company and its bottling partners are pursuing several key goals: 

• Investing in the planet: By 2030, for every bottle or can the Coca-Cola system sells globally, we aim to help take one back so it has more than one life. The Company is investing its marketing dollars and skills behind this 100% collection goal to help people understand what, how and where to recycle. We will support collection of packaging across the industry, including bottles and cans from other companies. The Coca-Cola system will work with local communities, industry partners, our customers, and consumers to help address issues like packaging litter and marine debris. 

• Investing in packaging: To achieve its collection goal, The Coca-Cola Company is continuing to work toward making all of its packaging 100% recyclable globally. The Company is building better bottles, whether through more recycled content, by developing plant-based resins, or by reducing the amount of plastic in each container. By 2030, the Coca-Cola system also aims to make bottles with an average of 50% recycled content. The goal is to set a new global standard for beverage packaging. Currently, the majority of the Company’s packaging is recyclable.

World Without Waste is the next step in the Company’s ongoing sustainability efforts, building off success in replenishing an estimated 100% of the water it uses in its final beverages. The Company2 

achieved and exceeded its water replenishment goal in 2015, five years ahead of expectations. These efforts are part of the Company’s larger strategy to grow with conscience, by becoming a total beverage company that grows the right way. 

“Bottles and cans shouldn’t harm our planet, and a litter-free world is possible,” Quincey said. “Companies like ours must be leaders. Consumers around the world care about our planet, and they want and expect companies to take action. That’s exactly what we’re going to do, and we invite others to join us on this critical journey.” 

The Coca-Cola Company will work to achieve these goals with the help of several global partners: the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy initiative, The Ocean Conservancy/Trash Free Seas Alliance and World Wildlife Fund (The Cascading Materials Vision and Bioplastic Feedstock Alliance). Coca-Cola will also launch efforts with new partners at the regional and local level and plans to work with its key customers to help motivate consumers to recycle more packaging. 

“We would like to encourage everyone to recycle as part of a circular economy, where plastic, glass, and aluminum are reused or repurposed as many times as possible, rather than being used once and then thrown away. We look forward to working with the industry, local communities, NGOs, government organizations, and even our critics to highlight this critical issue. When we all come together to help solve this problem, collectively we will make a bigger difference than if we simply act alone,” said Winn Everhart, President & General Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines. 

The Coca-Cola System in the Philippines has already started on the journey towards achieving this goal through their active participation with the Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) – a multi-stakeholder coalition supported by the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) and composed of the top corporations in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Recently, Coca-Cola and other members of PARMS announced their commitment to work with government and non-government organizations in developing a sustainable solid waste management program in the country, starting with its plan to build a state of the art materials recovery and reprocessing facility. 

To learn more, visit Coca-Cola Journey at http://www.coca-colacompany.com/stories/world-without- 

waste.