Maria Clara Sangria goes ‘virgin’ with Moira Dela Torre

Tweet

Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., the maker of Maria Clara Sangria, introduces its non-alcoholic version while welcoming its newest brand ambassador Moira Dela Torre. 

WHEN it comes to trends for beverages in 2023, alcohol-free options for existing product lines are an emerging product segment. It’s not just about not drinking, however, but about having a choice.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, increasingly conscious of the value of health, consumers began making more healthy lifestyle choices, with one of these being the decrease in or abstinence from alcohol consumption. There has been a significant rise in demand for low- to no-alcohol products, as alcohol-free drinks allow consumers to maintain healthy lifestyles, even as social gatherings have returned to pre-pandemic levels. Non-alcoholic drinks provide a sober alternative to liquor without sacrificing the social experience, as people who are not drinkers search for alternatives without compromising their sobriety, as well as their health.

Now, a favorite Filipino drink, sangria, goes “virgin.” Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., the maker of Maria Clara Sangria, the number 1 sangria in the Philippines, introduces its non-alcoholic version while welcoming its newest brand ambassador Moira Dela Torre. 

The fruity and flavorful Maria Clara Virgin Sangria can be enjoyed chilled or over ice for any occasion, anywhere, and without hesitation—a great way to savor the cocktail taste that people love without the worry of what alcohol may do to their bodies, as Maria Clara Virgin delivers full flavor with 0 percent alcohol and with less added sugars.

It is Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc.’s mission to help people change the way they celebrate and enjoy special occasions in their lives. The company also aims to cater to all types of consumers in the market, specifically the low-alcohol or non-alcoholic segment.

Now, sangria fans can indulge without the guilt. Maria Clara Virgin will be available in all major retail outlets at an SRP of P192.00.

Philippine Pastel Artists Returns to Gateway Gallery for Kulay Pastel

Tweet

ALVIN MONTANO, Fallen Leaves

The Philippine Pastel Artists, Inc. group, in partnership with Giftbox, Inc., presents the 2nd Kulay Pastel Juried Exhibition at the Gateway Gallery. As a members-only exhibit, the show aims to recognize new, exceptional works done by the group’s regular members, showcasing their current progress and artistic directions and demonstrating their passion and dedication to the fine art of pastels.

FERDIE MAGSINO, Manay Lisa

-----------------------------------------

WHAT: Kulay Pastel 2nd Juried Exhibition

WHEN: July 15, 2023, 4 PM Opening Reception, exhibit ends on July 29, 2023

WHERE: Gateway Gallery, Level 5 Gateway Tower, Araneta City, Q.C.

------------------------------------------

Founded in 2015, the PPA continues its vision to be a premier and globally-recognized organization promoting Filipino artists through the use of pastels as a medium for artistic expression and setting the standards of excellence in pastel painting in the Philippines. It is a recognized member of the International Association of Pastel Societies, a non-profit organization representing pastel societies worldwide, uniting in the common cause to demonstrate the validity and quality of pastel fine art.

In providing a platform for its members to showcase their creative abilities and skills in pastel artmaking, PPA forges on with its mission to elevate the pastel medium in the art community at large. Awards for the Best in Show and two Awards of Merit to the three most distinguished pieces will be announced at the exhibition’s opening reception on July 15, 2023. The show ends on July 29, 2023.

KARLO DOMINGO, Quiapo

GRANDIER BELLA, Juvenile Playthings

IRIS BABAO-UY, Ilaw ng Tahanan

 JULIUS LEGASPI, Rush Hour

 ROMEO CORTEZ, Bunong-braso

Participating artists are:

Alvin Montano, Bids Llorin-Luna, Caroline Rosales, Dennis Baquial, Ferdie Magsino, Ferdinand Capistrano, Glenn Perez, Grandier Bella, Iris Babao-Uy, Julius Legaspi, Karlo Domingo, Kathy Sarao-Nazario, Luisa Bayot, Nell Belgado, Reina Lynn "Rei" Antonio, Roberto Martin Sing, Rodel Rosario, Roland Castro, Romeo Cortez, Tessa Punzalan-Brodeth, Wendy Rondaris, Yolanda Batara

---------------------------------------------------

Gateway Gallery is the art museum of Araneta City. It is open daily, from 10 am to 6 pm, as a free admission art museum, located at the 5F Gateway Tower, Araneta City. For inquiries on the exhibit and other programs, email us at gatewaygallery@aranetagroup.com, or call +63 2 825 3012. Connect also with Gateway Gallery’s social media accounts at Facebook (GatewayGalleryPH), Instagram (gateway.gallery), Twitter (gateway_gallery), and YouTube Channel (Gateway Gallery).

---------------------------------------------------

TESSA PUNZALAN-BRODETH, Sa Tabing Sapa

For inquiries, please contact: 0975-8879651 or email: ppa.kulaypastel@gmail.com.

Pocky day 11.11 - Take the Pocky Heart-to-Heart TikTok Challenge and tap into the joy of gift-giving

Tweet

Glico Philippines, Inc. is celebrating Pocky day (11.11) this November 11, 2022 with a new TikTok challenge that combines the Filipino culture of gift-giving with a cute Pocky[1] trend popularized in Japan. The Pocky Heart-to-Heart TikTok Challenge is perfect for those looking to showcase their love to the ones they hold dearest.

Every year since, Glico celebrates Pocky day globally on 11.11, because this popular Japanese snack that everyone loves looks like the number “1”

Pocky Happiness Flavour for winners

The tradition of giving gifts or pasalubong to loved ones is an integral part of the Filipino culture; this generosity and thoughtfulness are traits that perfectly resonate with Pocky’s brand philosophy of sharing happiness with everyone. This is why Pocky has chosen to celebrate their biggest day of the year, 11.11, with a gift-giving challenge for everyone in the Philippines to show their utmost love to those closest to them in the upcoming festive season.

If you have someone you want to show your love and appreciation to, here‘s how you can join the Pocky Heart-to-Heart TikTok Challenge:

Create a heart with Pocky boxes — Using at least two Pocky boxes, put your creativity and skills to work, and shape them into a heart. You can even decorate the Pocky heart with ribbons, flowers or anything else that adds to the love you put into the gift.

Give your Pocky heart to a loved one — With your valid TikTok account, take a video of you giving your Pocky Heart to someone you want to show your appreciation for. Make sure to share your happiness with us by telling us why you’re giving this person the Pocky Heart.

Share your love to the world! — Post the video on TikTok with the hashtag #PockyHearttoHeart!

Whether it’s a partner, an old friend, a teacher or your grandparents, there is bound to be someone dear to show your love to. Take the Pocky Heart-to-Heart TikTok Challenge and showcase your love in a Heart-to-Heart “Tok” with your loved ones. If you post the best entry, you’ll win a cash prize and a special limited-edition gift pack with “Pocky Happiness Flavour”!

You can complete the challenge in the comfort of your home, in a fancy venue of your choice, or at one of our Pocky day event booths coming soon to a space near you! Follow the Pocky Philippines Facebook and Glico Philippines Instagram to find out the locations of these events as they open up.

■ Communication

Official Facebook　https://www.facebook.com/PockyPhilippines

Official Instagram　https://www.instagram.com/glico_ph/

Glico Brand Store (Shopalyst) https://shop-ph-glico.com/brandstore/glico

Glico Asia Pacific website https://www.glico.com/sg/

-----------------------

About Glico

On February 11, 2022, the Glico Group celebrated the 100th year of its founding. In 1922, Glico’s nutritious Glico caramel in its distinctive red box first hit the shelves of a department store. Headquartered in Japan, Glico has since expanded into Asia Pacific, European, and North American markets with the aspiration to stay true to its founding spirit of enhancing people’s health through food.

Led by its well-loved confectionary brands such as Pocky, Pretz, and Pejoy, Glico has now expanded its portfolio* to include ice cream products, baby formula, milk products, desserts, food ingredients, and raw materials for cosmetic and health products. Its health and wellness offerings such as the SUNAO range of zero sucrose, low carbohydrate food products and Almond Koka almond milk are gaining popularity outside of Japan after becoming a hit in its domestic market.

https://www.glico.com/global/

About Pocky

Since its launch in Japan in 1966, Pocky has maintained its core concept while gradually changing its packaging and formulation to meet the times and society. The new Pocky range was launched in the Philippines on June 8 in 2022 to suit the changing consumption scene and purchasing behavior in Southeast Asia. With growing health consciousness, more and more consumers are looking for healthier choices and more guilt-free products. In line with such willing, we added fiber into the pretzel of Pocky which offers more health benefits. We also added wholewheat into the pretzel which gives it a lighter and crispier texture. The rich and smooth chocolate gives the right balance of sweetness while enhancing the unique aroma of the chocolate flavors by adjusting the ratio of cream to biscuit.

About Pocky day

Pocky day was established in 2016 as a day to encourage people to start sharing happiness. November 11 was chosen because the Pocky biscuit stick resembles the number “1”. It was first organized on November 11 in 1999, the eleventh year of the Japanese Heisei era: 11/11/11. It is an official day recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association[2].

We hope that Pocky day will not only become the day to think of and appreciate the important people in your life, but also a day to take action and make them happy.

[1] “Pocky” is a trademark of Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd.

[2] https://cp.pocky.jp/pp1111/en/

Brightest Stars and Exciting Programs Highlighted in TV5’s “Iba’ng Saya Pag Sama-Sama” Campaign Station ID

Tweet

This July, TV5 has launched its newest Station ID which resonates with the network’s all-encompassing message of inclusivity, content variety, and endearing Filipino values. With the new campaign tagline of “Iba’ng Saya Pag Sama-Sama,” TV5 takes pride in gathering its talented artists, producing high-quality shows that caters to Filipino audiences from all over the country, and bringing in the best television programs from Cignal Entertainment, Brightlight Productions, ABS-CBN, Sari-Sari Network, Inc., and many more.

The “Iba’ng Saya Pag Sama-Sama” Station ID highlights new and upcoming shows to air on TV5, led by the cast of Oh My Korona with Majestic Superstar Maja Salvador; Suntok Sa Buwan with Aga Muhlach, Elijah Canlas, and Maris Racal; and ABS-CBN’s Darna with Jane De Leon, Joshua Garcia, Janella Salvador, and Zaijan Jaranilla.

Featured as well are Kapatid hosts, celebrities, news anchors and athletes from the network’s flagship shows Sing Galing, News5, Frontline Pilipinas, and PBA. Adhering to its campaign message in bringing everyone together, the Station ID also showcased programs concurrently airing on TV5 such as Brightlight Productions' Lunch Out Loud, Sari-Sari Network, Inc.’s Rolling In It Philippines Season 2, and ABS-CBN’s FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, 2 Good 2 Be True, A Family Affair, Love in 40 Days, and ASAP Natin ‘To.

“It is such a groundbreaking feat to finally bring together all these talented stars in a way that was never thought possible before. We are proud to achieve this in TV5, and it truly gives more meaning to the network’s new ‘Iba’ng Saya Pag Sama-Sama’ campaign. This Station ID serves as a glimpse of what we have in store for our viewers in the coming days and months, showcasing TV5 as the platform that features the stars and programs from some of the industry’s top content producers,” shared Cignal TV and TV5 President and CEO Robert P. Galang.

Adding to the network’s groundbreaking feats is the unprecedented back-to-back airing of two powerhouse shows that will change the landscape of Philippine TV. Set to happen this July 16, Brightlight Productions’ Lunch Out Loud and ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime will power up the new Lunchtime Saya block of TV5 and will definitely be something viewers can look forward to for their daily noontime entertainment.

Catch the new “Iba’ng Saya Pag Sama-Sama” Station ID on TV5’s Facebook page and YouTube channel or via this link: https://fb.watch/e21U8G8uOp/. Don’t forget to tune in to TV5 to catch the upcoming shows and surprises to be announced by the network soon.

Alaska gives 70 days of ‘Lakas at Talas’ to foster kids

Tweet

As we greet a new year, new challenges have inevitably arisen given the current state of the world. With these problems that we face during these uncertain times, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk sought to uplift vulnerable communities and share the spirit of giving. Last Christmas, Alaska invited members of its Facebook community, MOMs of Alaska (MOMAs), to make the holidays a little brighter for the children from the company’s partner orphanages, Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. and House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. Over a hundred members of the Alaska MOMAs community came together to create special Christmas cards, with creative designs and personalized messages dedicated to each of the children.

Social Worker Jessa Mae Masalon of House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. receives Christmas cards made by Alaska MOMA members and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska Milk Corporation representative Miriam Maramba, Associate Manager for Marketing Services

Alaska collected the Christmas cards and held a turnover with the partner institutions, donating 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” in the form of Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk products that can give the children the added nutrition to help with their brain and body development while they are growing. Gift packs with toys and educational materials were also included in the turnover, which the children welcomed with smiles and loud cheers.

Mailyn Balairos, Center Head of Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. (CCMFI), a church-based Christian organization that aims to provide children with educational assistance, shelter, medical aid, skills training and nourish their souls with the word of God, shared her appreciation to the moms who took their time to create Christmas cards for the children under their care. “On behalf of CCMFI and the children, I wanted to convey my deepest gratitude to the moms of Alaska and to Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk for this unforgettable event for the children,” Mailyn shared.

Riza Lepasana, OIC and Directress of House of Refuge Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting orphaned and abandoned children in Metro Manila, also expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “On behalf of House of Refuge, I sincerely thank the moms who made an effort to make this Christmas feel special for our kids, and to thank Alaska for sharing their blessings of ‘Lakas at Talas’ with our children,” Riza said.

Center Head Mailyn Balairos joined by the staff Christian Compassion Ministries receive Christmas cards and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk also thanks its partner orphanages for assisting and providing homes to children in need and giving them the “alaga” or care that they deserve. In these challenging times, Alaska reaches out to the children of House of Refuge and Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation and hopes to continue their mission of providing affordable quality nutrition to Filipino children and families everywhere.

For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk and its initiatives, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

BRIA Condo Vertical Villages, the Home to Be for Aspirational Young Filipinos

Tweet

Everyone wants something different out of their home. Apart from the standard attributes that prospective buyers look for—good design, comfort and security, and durability—they may have diverse needs that require different types of living spaces.

BRIA vertical villages present a vibrant alternative to the dull and drab residential blocks commonly seen in the busy metropolis

For millennials in the workforce who are upgrading from renting to homeownership, BRIA’s condos—aptly called vertical villages—are an attractive, even ideal option for their very first home. Residents of BRIA condos enjoy cozy and intimate co-living in elegant walk-up buildings where they forge small, tightly knit communities through their well-laid-out spaces.

It is a scenario that appeals to young professionals or startup entrepreneurs who will feel an empowering sense of accomplishment as they enjoy features that allow them to live their best lives. This is because BRIA’s vertical villages boast amenities rarely offered in economical midrise condos—communal clubhouses with function halls, swimming pools, and spacious play areas, and complete gym facilities. Thus, it is the place to be for bright, aspirational millennials who work hard and expect to savor the fruits of their productive life.

Such are the defining features of BRIA vertical villages, which present a vibrant alternative to the dull and drab residential blocks commonly seen in the busy metropolis. But apart from functional living spaces, another key advantage that BRIA condos have over traditional apartment complexes is their proximity to lifestyle hubs and major business districts. After all, BRIA Homes has always built projects with strategic and carefully planned locations in mind, and BRIA condos, without exception, provide easy access to essential goods and services.

BRIA Condos have walkable green spaces, a dedicated jogging path, and landscaped gardens that help promote an active, healthy lifestyle among their residents.

To top it all, BRIA Condos have walkable green spaces, a dedicated jogging path, and landscaped gardens that help promote an active, healthy lifestyle among their residents.

Homebuyers who seek precisely what BRIA’s vertical villages have to offer can make their choice among the four condo housing projects that are currently on ready-for-occupancy or pre-selling mode. These include BRIA Condo Mactan, BRIA Condo Cagayan de Oro, BRIA Condo General Trias, and BRIA Condo Calamba, all of which have convenient access to bustling economic centers so that residents are never too far from the heart of the action.

All BRIA Condos feature either studio units that are cleverly laid out for optimum use of homeowners—or one-bedroom units that have provisions for a bedroom, dining and kitchen area, living area, and toilet and bath.

For millennials in the workforce, BRIA’s condos are an attractive, even ideal option for their very first home.

BRIA Homes boasts competent property management that ensures safety and protection for residents and their properties in all their projects. At BRIA Condos, there are guard houses at points of entry and exit while security personnel enforces stringent protocols in the community.

Even as the pandemic restrictions are gradually being relaxed, BRIA encourages interested homebuyers to immerse themselves in BRIA’s 360 virtual tours in order to check out the BRIA Condo projects of their choice. These virtual tours, available through BRIA’s official website, remain the safest and easiest way to have a glimpse of one’s potential home. Just a few clicks on your mobile device and you’re in.

BRIA condos, without exception, provide easy access to essential goods and services.

“At BRIA, we look at the needs of the everyday Filipino and we look to service those needs to the best of our abilities,” says Red Rosales, President of BRIA Homes. With this core value in mind, Rosales now speaks with optimism about BRIA’s foray into the development of the vertical village, which mainly targets the millennials, a market segment that used to spend their money on travel, cars, and gadgets.

“BRIA believes that the coronavirus pandemic that has afflicted thousands of Filipinos and hurt the economy has reshaped the way young, ambitious Filipinos spend or invest their money,” Rosales confidently asserts.

“This young generation has become increasingly aware of real estate as the safest investment, whether they intend to resume work in physical offices or continue to work from home, moving forward,” he adds, noting that “BRIA Condo projects come at an auspicious time, giving this new generation of homeowners the residential space they need to be able to thrive and grow in comfort and security.”

BRIA Homes is a subsidiary of GOLDEN MV Holdings, Inc., one of the top real estate companies in the country. Acclaimed for its massive footprint of over 50 developments in major Philippine cities and municipalities, BRIA Homes is committed to bring quality and best-value residential communities closer to everyday Filipino families. Through a diverse portfolio of properties such as house-and-lots and condominiums, BRIA Homes promises to provide the right property option for every Filipino’s needs.

To know more, visit their website at www.bria.com.ph, like and follow “Bria Homes, Inc.” on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Spotify, Viber Community, Telegram Channel, Kakao Talk, LINE and WhatsApp, or call 0939-887-9637.

BRIA Homes promotes renewable energy through solar-powered street lights in its communities nationwide

Tweet

Solar lights provide adequate illumination around BRIA’s amenities and offices, ensuring the security of properties and aiding BRIA’s roving guards as they make their rounds on the premises.

With climate change producing anomalous weather patterns all over the world, many countries are now hit by catastrophic storms and typhoons that claim multiple lives and, according to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, leave “billions of people injured, homeless, and in need of emergency assistance.”

Unfortunately, Asia has experienced the worst weather disturbances in recent years, with the Philippines ranking just behind China and India i terms of loss of human lives and livelihoods.

Apart from providing enhanced security to BRIA residents, solar-powered streetlights promote renewable energy and significantly lessen the carbon footprint of BRIA communities. 

BRIA Homes, the Philippines’ leading developer of superior quality affordable homes, is only too aware of such serious consequences of climate change. As a major stakeholder in the real estate industry, BRIA believes that well-built and aesthetically designed homes that Filipinos can afford must come with a deep regard for environmentally sustainable communities. Thus, the real estate brand ensures that steps are consistently being taken towards building and maintaining eco-friendly developments such as its more than 50 projects all over the country.

These days, even as the world’s focus remains on the coronavirus pandemic, BRIA Homes encourages its homeowners and residents to adopt easy ways they can help the environment. These include keeping their garden or green space chemical-free; banishing single-use plastics from their homes; buying locally made products; shopping organically; re-using and recycling; opting for pollinator-friendly plants; and reducing their carbon footprint by judicious use of power and water resources.

BRIA Homes’ solar-powered streetlights make it easier for residents to safely navigate its main roads, streets, and walking paths. 

On their part, BRIA Homes has initiated their eco-friendly schemes by installing solar-powered streetlights in all of their residential enclaves. Solar-powered streetlights make use of photovoltaic (PV) panels, built-in lithium-ion batteries and power management system, LED lights, and smart night and motion sensors. These devices enable them to source energy from the sun, storing as much of it throughout the day to effectively light the streets from dusk to dawn.

An ideal option for the Philippines, which has an abundance of sunlight, solar-powered streetlights work even during power interruptions or grid failures, making sure that BRIA communities are lit up at night.

Red Rosales, President of BRIA Homes, says that “apart from providing enhanced security to BRIA residents, and contributing to better architectural landscaping in our developments, solar-powered streetlights promote renewable energy and significantly lessen the carbon footprint of our communities.”

Rosales likewise points out that because of its many benefits, solar power has been deemed the most environmentally sound way to light up the streets, perimeter roads, gardens, parks, and recreational facilities of BRIA communities. “Solar-powered streetlights reduce our dependence on conventional energy,” he explains. “They are widely known for being long-lasting and economical to use, requiring almost zero maintenance. The absence of external wires also lessens the potential for accidents such as electrocution and overheating.”

An ideal option for the Philippines, which has an abundance of sunlight, solar-powered streetlights work even during power interruptions or grid failures. BRIA Homes’ modern solar streetlights are also water-resistant, weather-proof, and with low insect attraction.

According to Rosales, solar-powered streetlights likewise reduce the costs of traditional grid-powered lighting—and provide bright illumination with no need for cables and replacements. And as the home-of-choice for millennials, BRIA Homes shares how its solar-powered streetlights make it easier for young and active residents to safely navigate its main roads, streets, and walking paths.

Rosales adds that solar lights provide parking spaces around amenities and offices with adequate amount of light, ensuring the security of vehicles in the vicinity. These lights aid BRIA’s roving guards, as well, as they secure the premises from incidences of theft and accidents.

Solar-powered streetlights reduce BRIA Homes’ dependence on conventional energy. They are widely known for being long-lasting and economical to use, requiring almost zero maintenance.

BRIA Homes also touts other sustainable facilities such as Sentro, the amenity hub of BRIA developments—a wide, open space that enables residents to connect and socialize. Sentro houses the multi-function hall, parks, playgrounds, and sub-centers that cater to homeowners’ various concerns: Health Center, Day Care Center, Senior Citizen Center, and Barangay Center.

Consistent with its vision of making contemporary, budget-friendly, and sustainable homes accessible to all Filipinos, BRIA Homes follows a tried-and-tested formula, Affordability (Mura) + Quality (Dekalidad) = A Beautiful BRIA Home for Every Filipino.

Prospective residents who aim to live eco-friendlier lives can easily purchase a BRIA unit through various flexible schemes and digital payment methods available both locally and internationally through BRIA’s partner banks and e-wallets like GCash, AllEasy, and PayMaya.

Red Rosales says in conclusion: “Solar-powered streetlights are just one of the many ways that BRIA Homes promotes the use of renewable energy. We believe that it is vital for us to continue finding different ways to live sustainable and environmental-friendly lives, as this is the only way to truly build progressive and livable communities.”

Property buyers can check out BRIA’s website for 360 virtual tours, or inquire online through the BRIA Facebook page. Future homeowners who wish to reserve a property online can visit BRIA’s online reservation page.

BRIA Homes is a subsidiary of GOLDEN MV Holdings, Inc., .one of the largest real estate companies in the country. BRIA Homes is primed to bring quality and affordable house and lot packages and condominium units closer to ordinary Filipino families. This is the goal that drives every single employee in the company, for which the ultimate fulfillment is seeing a client happily moving into BRIA’s homes.

To know more, visit their website at www.bria.com.ph, like and follow “Bria Homes, Inc.” on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Spotify, Viber Community, Telegram Channel, Kakao Talk, LINE and WhatsApp, or call 0939-887-9637.

Experience the Thrill of Netflix Original Series ‘Kingdom’ with Smart Signature

Tweet

Immerse yourself in the hit series in a specially themed online escape room experience.

As fans await the next installment of the hit Netflix original series Kingdom, the world’s leading entertainment service has given viewers a special treat by dropping “Kingdom: Ashin of the North,” a special episode spin-off that tells the origins of the resurrection plant and the story of the mysterious Ashin and her role in the tragic events.

For an even bigger treat and a unique experience, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with Mystery Manila to create a specially themed virtual escape room that transports subscribers to a world of unnatural plagues, political conspiracies, and all kinds of chaos found in the award-winning show.

Mystery Manila is known for their experiential and immersive escape rooms but due to the pandemic they have innovated to online escape room executions that still provide the same thrill and excitement that Filipinos know and enjoy.

Smart Signature subscribers can exclusively experience the nerve-wracking Kingdom-inspired virtual escape room starting July 31 by visiting Smartnetflix.mysterymanila.com.

Upon entering the escape room, you will find yourself trapped inside the magistrate’s library surrounded by bloodthirsty zombies. To find your way to safety, you will undergo a series of challenges with clues in the form of books and scrolls, letting you experience the chilling scenes from the horrific Dongnae world.

Race against time, challenge your friends and make the experience even more memorable by posting and sharing it online using the official hashtag #SmartNetflix #EscapeFromDongnae. You may also try customized IG filters @LiveSmart and check to see what role you are destined to play during the zombie outbreak. Learn more about this exciting experience at smart.com.ph/pages/EscapeFromDongnae.

Escape to a world of entertainment with Smart Signature SIM-Only Plans and Netflix

Smart Signature Plans enable subscribers to escape to a world of entertainment by exclusively bundling them with a Netflix Mobile Plan subscription.

By signing up with any Smart Signature SIM-Only Plan, subscribers also conveniently get a monthly Netflix Mobile Plan subscription throughout their 12-month contract, letting them enjoy thousands of award-winning shows, series, documentaries, specials, and feature films right at their fingertips. No need to apply for a separate subscription to immerse in the worlds of Netflix Originals like Crash Landing On You, Money Heist, Stranger Things, The Umbrella Academy, Extraction, Bridgerton, The Crown, and more. And if you already have an existing Netflix subscription, you can tie it to your Signature Plan and get a discount on your monthly subscription!

Signature SIM-Only Plans start at PHP 999.00 per month with Plan S, which is inclusive of 10 GB open access data, unlimited All-Net texts, unlimited All-Net calls, and 150 minutes of calls to PLDT—along with the bundled Netflix Mobile Plan subscription. Discover more about Signature Plans with Netflix at smart.com.ph/Netflix.

Powered by the country’s fastest mobile data network

Smart Signature is powered by Smart, recognized by third-party analytics firms as the country’s fastest mobile data network Ookla and OpenSignal.

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, named Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network in the second half of 2020, after it achieved a Speed Score™ of 24.99, with average speeds of 20.08 Mbps for download, and 7.42 Mbps for upload, based on 3,915,679 user-initiated tests taken with Speedtest®. Ookla has also cited Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network for three years in a row now.

On the other hand, Smart recently scored a rare sweep in the April 2021 Philippines Mobile Network Experience Awards by independent analytics firm Opensignal*, beating the competition across all metrics in three essential aspects of service: Coverage (4G Coverage Experience, 4G Availability), Speed (Download and Upload Speed) and Experience (Games, Video and Voice App).

Smart also enables subscribers to upgrade their digital experience with Smart 5G, the fastest 5G network in the Philippines for Q1 2021 according to Ookla, with median download speeds of 190 Mbps or more than double the competition’s speeds for the same period.

Sign up as a new subscriber or upgrade your current Smart Postpaid Plan at Smart Stores nationwide or the Smart Online Store at store.smart.com.ph.

Get Closer with Son Ye Jin and Hyun Bin this July via Smart Hallyu Hangouts

Tweet

Here's how you can virtually meet Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin this via Smart Hallyu Hangouts

Leading mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. is bringing Filipino fans closer to their favorite Korean superstars through Smart Hallyu Hangouts, a series of online shows where subscribers can watch their idols.

Smart Hallyu Hangouts pilots on July 16 with multi-awarded Korean actress and Smart Signature endorser Son Ye Jin while Hyun Bin takes on the Smart Hallyu Hangouts stage on July 31.

It’s the closest thing fans can get to a physical fan meet during the pandemic, where they get a chance to virtually watch Son Ye Jin through a live feed from South Korea.

“I may not be able to meet you all in person, but I’m thankful for this opportunity through virtually. I wish we can all meet with a smile soon, so until then, please stay safe and healthy,” said Son Ye Jin in a previous video message.

“As we continue to bring our subscribers closer to their passions through simple and easy ways using our fast and reliable network, we are launching the Smart Hallyu Hangouts series with Son Ye Jin in the first virtual show to give fans the best experience despite the limitations of the pandemic. We prepared a very special episode for you guys so hope to see you all there,” said Jane J. Basas, SVP and Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

It will be recalled that Smart made the inevitable a reality when Son Ye Jin and Hyun Bin teamed up for a commercial film back in February. The project marked the first time the two superstars were seen together since the massive success of Crash Landing On You.

How to watch Smart Hallyu Hangouts

For both Smart Hallyu Hangouts episodes, Smart Prepaid, Smart Bro Prepaid, and Prepaid Home WiFi customers who register via the link on the microsite and redeem any Giga reward using GigaPoints are eligible to join the promo.

For Smart Signature subscribers at Plan S (999) and up and Smart Bro Postpaid subscribers, a registration link will be available on July 6, 2021. You may register for the raffle promo from July 6-8, 2021.

For the complete details on how to score tickets to these events, you may visit this link: https://smart.com.ph/Pages/smart-hallyu-hangouts.

Powered by the country’s fastest mobile data network

Smart Hallyu Hangouts is powered by Smart, the country’s mobile data network as reported by third-party mobile internet analytics firm Ookla® and Opensignal.

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, named Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network in the second half of 2020 after it achieved a Speed Score™ of 24.99, with average speeds of 20.08 Mbps for download, and 7.42 Mbps for upload, based on 3,915,679 user-initiated tests taken with Speedtest®. Ookla has also cited Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network for three years in a row now.

Smart has also scored a rare sweep in the April 2021 Philippines Mobile Network Experience Awards* by independent analytics firm Opensignal, beating the competition across all metrics in three essential aspects of service: Coverage (4G Coverage Experience, 4G Availability), Speed (Download and Upload Speed) and Experience (Games, Video and Voice app). This is the first time an operator in the Philippines won decisively in all categories.

Smart also enables subscribers to level up their digital experience with Smart 5G’s super-fast speeds and ultra-low latency powered by the country’s most extensive 5G network with over 3,000 sites.

PCPPI marks World Water Day with reduced water consumption

Tweet

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) - the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverage products - recently reported a six percent reduction in its 2020 water usage, compared with previous year. The company saved 5,836,587 cubic meters of water which is more than 2,300 Olympic-sized swimming pools. 

In support of 2021 World Water Day, PCPPI commits to improve its water reduction. The company detailed it recycled and reused more than 100,000 m3 or more than 26 million gallons of water. 

“Despite the challenges from the pandemic, we still upheld our water stewardship principles.  The company respects water as a fundamental right. Thus, we strictly manage our water consumption and water wastes,” said PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick D. Ong. 

Internally, PCPPI will replicate its water reuse initiatives implemented in its Muntinlupa plant. The company will mirror the project in its Tanuan, Zamboanga, and Cebu plants this year.  

To bolster its water stewardship initiatives, PCPPI is strengthening its host communities' involvement. This year, the company will partner with more local government units for its adopt-a-river program. 

"Our company does not stop at managing our water resource. We also plan to nourish our sources of clean water to further sustain its supply," added Ong.

Water Stewardship is one of PCPPI's three Sustainability pillars. It is aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), the Philippine Development Plan, and PepsiCo’s Performance with Purpose.

DOT lauds Ibagiw 2020, Baguio’s Creative City Festival

Tweet

The Department of Tourism (DOT) commends the City Government of Baguio, Baguio Arts and Crafts Collective, Inc., UP Baguio, DOT-CAR and the city government for the successful launch of Ibagiw 2020. The third edition of the month-long creative festival kicked off with a grand opening on November 6, 2020 at the Baguio Convention Center and was also livestreamed on Facebook. 

“DOT supports events like Ibagiw because it helps revive tourism and supports economic recovery. More importantly, it brings back jobs and gives hope to the artisans and craftsmen who help make Baguio’s culture unique. The success of Ibagiw is the success of the city’s lifeblood: its creatives,” says Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. 

This year’s theme is "Breathe Inspiration, Breathe in Baguio." It aims to showcase the city’s vibrant and diverse artistic and cultural heritage, in line with Baguio’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts. The festival is open to the public until November 30. 

Ibagiw 2020 puts the city’s heritage and artistic gems in the spotlight with creative and nature crawls every Saturday and Sunday. Attendees can explore and rediscover destinations in the city, such as Museo Kordilyera, the Botanical Garden, Ili-Likha Artists’ Wateringhole, Tam-awan Village, BenCab Museum, and more. 

Other exciting events include an artisanal market, crafternoons, a contemporary art exhibition featuring local artists, Art in the Park, the launch of children’s books featuring the artistry of Cordillera weaving, and Anido Artist/Artisans Day. Ibagiw also gives locals the chance to express their creativity in gardening, woodcarving, and other crafts competitions.

Visitors from all over the country are welcome to join the festivities but are encouraged to follow stringent health and safety measures. Travelers are required to register on the VISITA app, where they must upload their RT-PCR test results, itinerary, travel authority, and accommodation details. Upon arrival in Baguio, they are obliged to go to the triage center, present their online registration on the VISITA app or hdf.baguio.gov.ph, and the mentioned requirements. 

“We invite everyone to experience a different side of Baguio in the new normal. Ibagiw’s commitment to highlighting the city’s heritage fulfills DOT’s vision to strengthen and push cultural tourism,” adds Puyat. 

The Ibagiw 2020 Creative City Festival is held in multiple venues all over the city. 

For the complete schedule, visit the Baguio Creative City Facebook page and the festival website: ibagiw.baguioartsandcrafts.org 

For more information about the Philippines, visit app.philippines.travel 

Safe and affordable homes in Calamba, Laguna

Tweet

As Filipinos shift to the digital landscape, the home has become more than just a resting space for our families—it is now our place of work and learning. 

More than ever, we gravitate towards modern dwellings that are affordable, convenient, and ensures comfortability as we continue to adapt in the new normal. 

Fortunately, Bria Homes, a top property developer in the Philippines, maintains its promise to build high-quality homes in economic housing projects all over the country. 

Metro Manila and Laguna residents looking for well-designed, budget-friendly homes will be delighted to know that the leading housing developer has launched Bria Homes Calamba in Barangay Bañadero, and Bria Homes Executive Calamba in Barangay Majada Out, Canlubang, both in Calamba City, Laguna.

These Bria communities will appeal to those who wish to trade the congestion of the metro for the healthier environment of a bustling city. With its access to major roads and highways, Bria Homes Calamba and Bria Homes Executive are also projected to lure property seekers from the same city and from other parts of Laguna.

Bria Homes Calamba offers the Angeli and Bettina house models which both feature a dining and kitchen area, living area, toilet and bath, and provisions for two and three bedrooms respectively.

Bria Homes Executive Calamba also offers the Bettina Townhouse, as well as the Alecza house model, with dining and kitchen area, partition for two bedrooms, a living area, toilet and bath; and the Elyana house model with a provision for one bedroom, dining and kitchen area, toilet and bath, and a living area.

The safe and secure residential communities are located in one of Laguna’s progressive cities near schools such as Calamba City College, Liceo de Calamba, and Bañadero National High School; hospitals like Calamba Medical Center, St. John the Baptist Medical Center, and Calamba Doctors Hospital; and places of worship such as St. John the Baptist Church, Iglesia ni Cristo Poblacion, and Bañadero Chapel. 

Commuters and motorists from these subdivisions will have quick easy access to the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) via San Juan Road and JP Rizal Street. 

As in all Bria properties, future homeowners will enjoy recreational facilities such as a multi-purpose hall, jogging paths, and a playground area. To ensure the security of its homeowners, the development will have amenities like guarded entrances and exits, perimeter fences, and 24/7 CCTV cameras. 

Bria Homes has also boosted its efforts to provide digital access to more Filipinos in this crucial time. Online reservations and payments are made easy for current and future homeowners. Bria is likewise holding live-selling, digital open house events, and virtual tours of its various projects to promote its house and lots for sale in the Philippines.

Finally, Bria Homes Calamba and Bria Homes Calamba Executive both offer flexible payment schemes like Pag-IBIG funding and bank-financing for prospective homeowners.

Bria Homes is a subsidiary of GOLDEN BRIA Holdings, Inc., considered the third largest real estate company in terms of market capitalization valued at more than P200B. 

One of the leading housing developers in the Philippines, Bria Homes is primed to bring quality and affordable house and lot packages and condominium units closer to ordinary Filipino families. This is the goal that drives every single employee in the company, for which the ultimate fulfillment is seeing a client happily moving into Bria’s homes.

To know more about Bria Homes, call (0966) 277 5944, like and follow “Bria Homes, Inc.” on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Spotify, Viber Community, Telegram Channel, Kakao Talk, LINE and WhatsApp.