Goodday Takes Over the Season with Its ‘Summer All’ Campaign

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When you look at your socials during the summer, blink, and your feed is already packed with beach sunsets, island-hopping clips, and out-of-town escapes that look straight out of a travel vlog. It’s the season of getaways, and as the posts keep coming, it’s hard not to pause and think, “Sana all!”

But summer doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s highlight reel. While some are off chasing waves, others are finding joy right where they are—spending the season in the city, discovering simple pleasures, and creating their own kind of fun. It’s a reminder that summer can be just as meaningful and memorable, even in everyday moments.

The season can manifest itself in many different moments, big or small. This can show up in small pauses in between busy days, where you just go for a walk or go on a quick merienda break. This can also be those fun little after-office hangouts that stretch into the evening, or basking in the sunset during golden hour, just as the city starts to slow down.

Summer is not just a season of fun and excitement; it’s also a season of relaxation and a great time to meditate, reflect, and rest in the midst of busy months and seasons.

These small moments—unplanned, everyday, and shared—are where summer truly lives.

This season, Goodday invites Filipinos to rediscover that feeling through its “Summer All” campaign, a celebration of the idea that summer isn’t a destination. It’s a vibe you can find wherever you are.

When it comes to helping you make summer truly yours, Goodday helps you stay ready for the spontaneous and simple shared summer moments. Together with Cloud 7, its ambassadors, Goodday brings “Summer All” to life by cherishing the little moments that turn the season into something memorable. Whether you’re out exploring, unwinding after a long day, or simply enjoying a quick pause, you can own summer in your own way.

Summer is all about unwinding and feeling refreshed, and every sip should match that vibe. With its cool, fizzy burst, it’s like being transported to the beach, soaking up the sun, and letting your worries drift away.

It’s also the perfect companion for all kinds of summer moments, whether you’re cooling down after a busy day at work with your officemates, taking in the golden hour view, or relaxing after a spontaneous weekend adventure.

However you choose to enjoy it, Goodday is there to remind you of those fun, carefree summer celebrations, and that refreshing feeling of a tropical escape, anytime you need it.

With every sip of Goodday, which contains paraprobiotics for immunity support, ensures that you stay healthy during the warm seasons and enjoy your summer moments hassle-free. Whether it be a quick sip during a summer adventure or as your drink of choice after a meal, Goodday helps you stay refreshed.

Sometimes, summer isn’t about relaxing vacations and exciting getaways; it’s knowing that summer can be experienced and celebrated even in the simplest of moments.

Find out more about how you can celebrate Summer All with Goodday via Facebook and share the enjoyment with your buddies.

Perfect Pairings: Enjoy Dewberry Yogurt Cake with These Delicious Drinks

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Match your favorite Dewberry Yogurt Cake flavor with the perfect drink for a sweet, refreshing treat anytime.

Enjoy a cozy afternoon with Dewberry Yogurt Cake Strawberries ‘n Yogurt with Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate.

Some days call for something sweet and satisfying—a little pick-me-up that feels indulgent but easy to enjoy. Whether it’s after lunch, during a mid-afternoon break, or while watching your favorite show, there’s always that craving for dessert. But who has the time to bake, prep, or wait in line at a café?

Indulge in the exciting tropical flavor of Dewberry Yogurt Cake Mangoes ‘n Yogurt with a refreshing bottle of C2 Green Tea.

With Dewberry Yogurt Cake, you can enjoy a café-style dessert experience wherever you are. Each pack combines soft, fluffy cake layers with tangy yogurt cream and a luscious fruity topping, perfectly balancing sweetness and refreshment in every bite. Available in three delicious flavors: Strawberries, Blueberries, and Mangoes, Dewberry Yogurt Cake makes dessert moments effortless.

And because every dessert deserves a drink to go with it, we’ve rounded up three easy pairings that bring out the best of each Dewberry flavor. Whether you’re winding down or looking for a quick energy boost, these duos are made for your relaxation moments.

Swiss Miss + Dewberry Yogurt Cake with Strawberries

For cozy afternoons or cool evenings, this pairing feels like a warm hug in dessert form. The rich, chocolatey taste of Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate blends beautifully with the fruity, slightly tart notes of Dewberry Strawberries. Together, they create that café-style indulgence you can enjoy right at home—perfect for rainy days or winding down after work.

C2 Green Tea + Dewberry Yogurt Cake Mangoes

If you need a refreshing mid-day mid-day pick-me-up, the clean and crisp taste of C2 Green Tea balances the tropical tang brought by Dewberry Yogurt Cake Mangoes. The result is a light, revitalizing combo that keeps you energized without feeling too heavy, which makes it great for office snack breaks or study sessions.

Vitasoy Original + Dewberry Yogurt Cake Blueberries

For mornings or snack time, pair Vitasoy Original with Dewberry Yogurt Cake Blueberries. The smooth, nutty flavor of soy complements sweetness and creamy texture of blueberries, creating a balanced bite that feels both wholesome and indulgent. It’s a duo that fuels your day while satisfying that dessert craving.

Satisfy your cravings with the sweet and smooth taste of Dewberry Yogurt Cake Blueberries ‘n Yogurt with Vitasoy Café Latte.

Each of these pairings proves that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated. With Dewberry Yogurt Cake, all you need is your favorite drink to turn any moment into a sweet escape: simple, delicious, and perfectly satisfying.

Try all flavors of Dewberry Yogurt Cake, available at select convenience stores and drug stores nationwide. For more information and update, please follow Dewberry on Facebook.

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) produces iconic brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx candy, Cream-O, Payless, C2 Cool and Clean, and Great Taste coffee, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. The newest addition to Dewberry – Dewberry Yogurt Cake brings a balanced sweetness and fruity flavor for a delightful snacking moment. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

5 reasons the new, mouthwatering Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are #SnackGoals

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 Get the limited-edition treat while you can, Cream-Oholics!

Make your me-time moments more “choco-happy” with Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies

There's a new snack in town that might just rock the world of chocolate lovers. We're talking a new and unique source of choco-happiness sent down from the deities up there in choco-heaven: the new and limited-edition Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies.

Enjoy your favorite me-time activity with Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies

So, if you’re wondering what it tastes like, here’s what you need to know about Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies:

Double the treat, double the fun

With Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies you can experience the best of both worlds as it combines two popular snack formats in one scrumptious bite. It’s both a soft, chewy cookie and a rich, fudgy brownie. As an amazing bonus, there’s even chocolate cream surprise once you take a bite.

“Choco-tastic” Sensation

This treat definitely delivers when it comes to chocolate. From the deep, cookie-brownie base to the choco cream filling, it's a chocolate lover's (or Cream-Oholic’s) dream come true. Just a warning: extreme levels of “choco-happiness” may occur.

Softness overload

Forget crumbly cookies and dry brownies. Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are all about that delectable and smooth texture. They’re flavor bombs, with each blissful bite into that soft and chewy cookie.

Me-time but better

Enjoy your favorite me-time activity — like cozying up to a good book, listening to your favorite inspirational podcasts, or watching your favorite true crime or K-drama series — much, much more with a glass of creamy milk or a cup of joe and this heavenly treat by your side.

Limited-edition magic

Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies are like shooting stars in the snack galaxy, a fleeting moment of pure deliciousness. So, grab these limited-edition treats while you can.

Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookies aren't just a snack; they can be a great partner to make your me-time moments more “choco-happy”. Go forth, Cream-Oholics, and snag this limited-edition treat.

Get the new Cream-O Brownie Soft Cookie online via URC shops or shop it at Robinsons Supermarkets, Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Easymart, Shopwise, The Marketplace, Puregold, SM Supermarket, and Uncle John’s.

Follow Cream-O on Facebook and Instagram for updates on all their future choco-creations.

Jack ‘n Jill Cream-O is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Maxx, Cloud 9, Magic Crackers, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines). 

                    

Robina Farms Cage-Free Specialty Eggs bring nutritious, high-quality eggs to Filipino homes

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Cage-free hens produce quality eggs. This is why Universal Robina Corporation (URC) ensures that Filipino households can have only the best for their everyday meals with Robina Farms Cage-Free Specialty Eggs.

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Quality eggs for every Filipino home. Robina Farms meets the growing need for safe and nutritious produce with Cage-Free Specialty Eggs.

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Under URC’s agro-industrial arm, Robina Farms focuses on providing clean and safe quality meat and produce to Filipinos. Its Cage-Free Specialty Eggs are harvested from the Robina Poultry Farm, which received the Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) certification from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI). The product is also certified No Antibiotic Residue, No Hormone Administered.

Now becoming a global trend, cage-free eggs are laid by free-roaming hens. According to a study, these are said to have dramatically lowered risks of salmonella and other dangerous bacteria compared to eggs from caged hens. By allowing hens to carry out natural behaviors before nesting, there are far greater chances to achieve food safety, nutritional value, and overall quality, while also keeping hens healthy. As of 2022, more than 2,000 companies worldwide had pledged to source 100% cage-free eggs. (Source: Lever Foundation).

Robina Farms ensures that its Cage-Free Specialty Eggs can meet the Filipinos’ demand for high-quality products. These are available in packs of x12s and x6s at Robinsons Supermarket and Puregold branches, as well as in Fisher Mall. These can also be ordered online through GoCart. 

For more information, you can check out Robina Farms’ Facebook and Instagram pages https://www.facebook.com/RobinaFarmsPH/ and https://www.instagram.com/robinafarms.ph/ or join its Facebook Community, https://www.facebook.com/groups/eatsrobinafarms

Hot Chocolate Recipes to Give You That Cozy Feeling Anytime

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Whether you’re working from home or doing a weekend movie marathon with the family, you can make your day extra sweeter by enjoying home activities with a cup of hot chocolate.

Stay cozy and level up your hot cocoa game with these easy-to-make Swiss Miss chocolate drink recipes.

Peanut Butter Hot Cocoa

Who says peanut butter only goes well on bread? Pour a sachet of Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate into a mug. Add 180 ml hot water to dissolve the cocoa mix. Add a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter, and gradually stir until well-mixed. Top off with whipped cream.

Caramel Hot Cocoa

Simply adding caramel to your drink can give it a different burst of sweetness. Make your caramel hot cocoa by pouring milk into a mug and heating it in the microwave until it’s hot. Add in half a teaspoon of caramel syrup and stir until fully dissolved. Pour in a sachet of Swiss Miss Dark Chocolate. Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel.

Mocha Hot Cocoa

Savor the perfect blend of chocolate and coffee by making your own cup of chocolate mocha. Just dissolve a sachet of Swiss Miss Chocolate Hazelnut into a mug of warm milk. Add two teaspoons of instant coffee granules and stir until completely dissolved. For added flavor, you can top this top off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Strawberry Hot Cocoa

Strawberries and chocolate are a perfect pair. Having both in one drink? Heaven. To prepare, heat a glass of strawberry milk in the microwave until hot. Stir in a sachet of Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate until well-blended. Top off with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. You may even add strawberry bits to level-up your drink.

Mallow-loaded Hot Cocoa

If you’re a fan of marshmallows, this can also go well with your chocolate drink! Start by mixing Swiss Miss Choco Milk Blends with a warm cup of milk. This Swiss Miss variant comes with marshmallows that you can mix in the drink and even use as toppings. You can even add more mallows and top this drink off with whipped cream. You can also coarsely break a graham cracker into small pieces and generously sprinkle these on your drink.

Grab your stash of Swiss Miss and try these five different recipes that you share with every member of the family. You can even invite your buddies for a virtual chitchat session over some hot chocolate drinks or do a watch party with your favorite movies.

Swiss Miss comes in Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate, Marshmallow, Hazelnut and the new Choco Milk Blends variants. Check out more recipes and updates by Swiss Miss Philippines on Facebook.

Swiss Miss is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), makers of well-loved Filipino goodies such as Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cream-O, Cloud 9, Maxx, C2 Cool and Clean and Great Taste.

Enjoy your favorite Swiss Miss drink even more by trying these hot cocoa drink recipes

Big bowls of goodness served at Nissin Souper Meal Food Trip event!

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Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience as Nissin-Universal Robina Corporation (NURC) launched its latest offering, Nissin Souper Meal, through its Japanese-themed noodle festival, Nissin Souper Food Trip.

“Nissin Souper Meal is meant to cater to the needs of the modern and active who, despite their busy schedule, still consider eating quality, filling and great-tasting food,” said NURC Business Unit General Manager Marcia Gokongwei.

Last Friday, November 13 at Robinson’s Place Ermita, Manila, the Nissin Souper Food Trip event featured a food alley with four noodle stalls.

Each stall showcased visual representations of Nissin Souper Meal variants with an accent of Japan’s famous cultural icons—the cherry blossom, the lantern festival, the Zen garden, and the torii.

The highlight of the event is the larger-than-life Nissin Souper Meal bowl installation that contained numerous bowls of the Nissin Souper Meal variants—Seafood, Beef Brisket, Hot & Spicy, and Garlic Pork Tonkotsu.

Mall-goers were given a chance to guess the total number of Nissin Souper Meal bowls inside the giant installation for a shot at prizes from the brand.

Nissin Souper Meal’s large serving of noodles and condiments comes in four delicious flavors -

--- Seafood (the best-selling flavor among all instant cup and bowl noodle brands)

--- Beef Brisket (rich Chinese-inspired beef broth)

--- Hot & Spicy (chicken and mushroom soup with an intense level of spiciness)

--- Garlic Pork Tonkotsu (Nissin’s first-ever pork-based variant in a light, creamy pork soup with a hint of garlic).

With Nissin being the leading instant cup noodle brand in the country, Nissin Souper Meal delivers superior convenience and ease in preparation as well.

Save the dates and don’t miss this one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience at the next Nissin Souper Meal Food Trip events on January 16 to 17, 2016 at Trinoma Mall and January 30 to 31, 2016 at Glorietta Mall.

Get your first taste of this souper sarap noodles by visiting leading supermarkets and grocery stores nationwide.

For only P29, you can satisfy your taste buds and appetites with Nissin Souper Meal.

For more information and the latest updates on Nissin Souper Meal and the upcoming Nissin Souper Meal Food Trip events, check out Nissin Souper Meal’s official Facebook page.

Celebrate Filipino Culture and Cuisine at Robinsons Manila Malls! Join "Pistang Pinoy" and "Flavor of Manila" Food & Culture Festival

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It has often been observed that the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines is seamlessly captured through our equally enticing cuisine. Indeed, the tapestry of our geographic diversity and historical influences is well-reflected in the way that our best-loved dishes (both savory and sweet) are interpreted.

Through a remarkable array of exhibits, demonstrations, parades, workshops, and performances, two of Manila’s most popular malls will highlight the amazing synergy that exists between Filipino culture, art, and food.

From August 28 to August 30, Robinsons Place Manila, premium mall in the heart of Manila and a favorite shopping destination of tourists will feature “Flavors of Manila”, which will offer a unique activity for each of the three days it will be held. Day one will present a water lilly bag making workshop, with a traditional rondalla performace delighting visitors on the next day. The final day kicks off with a cooking demonstration by “Master Chef” sensation Chef Myra, followed by a water lilly gown parade and a cultural performance. Throughout the entire duration of the festival, visitors can indulge their cravings for Filipino food via an impressive line-up of tenant booths and stalls. 

Meanwhile, Robinson’s Place Otis will begin the festivities a little earlier, beginning on August 22 and lasting up to the 28th. In order to conclude the “Buwan ng Wika” with delighful flair, the Pandacan area’s most contemporary shopping complex brings wonderful new meaning to “Pistang Pinoy”. The Fiesta-themed event will feature exciting and interactive traditional Filipino games, as well as performances from the country’s leading cultural dancers (Tingob and banga dance, tinikling, karatong, katzudaratan and singkil) and singers. Needless to say, a vast selection of customary Filipino dishes, delicacies, and pasalubong items will be readily available to take customers on a veritable culinary tour of the Philippines. 

Flavors of Manila and Pistang Pinoy will be held in partnership with Mangan Filipino Restaurant, Bacolod Inasal, Vibes Massage, Dermstrata, and BGT Healthcare Center.

For more information about this cultural and culinary renaissance in the heart of Manila, please visit www.robinsonsmalls.com 

Experience the great taste of winning in "Great Taste White’s Choose Great, Win Great Promo" with exciting gadgets, a brand new Toyota Vios, and great cash prizes!

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There's good coffee, then there's Great Taste Coffee ! Great Taste White is making everyday wins even greater with the Choose Great, Win Great raffle, its biggest promo to date. More than P27 million worth of prizes are at stake. 

Experience the great taste of winning in "Great Taste White’s Choose Great, Win Great Promo" with exciting gadgets, a brand new Toyota Vios, and great cash prizes—as much as P3 million for the grand draw winner!

The promo will have four regional draws in five areas: Greater Manila Area, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. 

For every regional draw, there will be one winner of P200,000 and one winner of P100,000 in each area. Two winners will also get their very own white MacBook Air, four winners will take home a white iPhone 6, and six winners will receive a white iPad Mini. 

The Great Taste White: Choose Great, Win Great Promo will culminate in the Grand Draw where one lucky winner will take home P3 million in cash and eight others will get to own a white Toyota Vios 1.3 E M/T. 

To make his winning moment an even greater experience, the grand prize winner will get an exclusive sneak peek into the Pinoy Big Brother experience. Apart from the P3 million cash prize, he will also receive VIP tickets to the PBB: 737 Big Night, tour the PBB House, and get to meet and greet PBB: All In Big Winner Daniel Matsunaga. 

Universal Robina Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Lance Gokongwei (2nd from right) , Daniel Matsunaga, and head officers of Universal Robina Corporation, during the Great Taste White: Choose Great Win Great Promo launch held at the Crown Plaza Manila Galleria, Ortigas, July 21, 2015.

“Through Great Taste White: Choose Great Win Great Promo, we aim to let more consumers savor greater wins,” said Lance Gokongwei, Universal Robina Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer. “This is also one way to thank our consumers for making Great Taste White the leading brand in the white coffee segment.”

Great Taste Ambassador Daniel Matsunaga and Gelli Victor (Host)

The Great Taste White: Choose Great, Win Great Promo is open to all Filipino residents 18 years old and above. To join, participants must simply collect five empty sachets of any Great Taste White variant (Smooth & Creamy, Smooth & Creamy Sugarfree, Smooth & Caramelly, and Smooth & Chocolatey) or one empty BigSAVE Pack. 

They must then put the empty packs in a plain white envelope with a piece of paper containing their complete name, birth date, current mailing address, mobile or landline number, store outlet where the product is purchased, and email address. One envelope qualifies for one entry, which can be dropped at drop boxes located in participating stores, supermarkets, and outlets nationwide. 

Promo period is from August 2 to September 18, 2015. 

Nothing is better than the great taste of winning, from small day-to-day triumphs to grand milestones. Savor great wins and take home the most awesome rewards in the Great Taste White: Choose Great, Win Great Promo. Know more about the promo by liking the official Great Taste White Facebook page (@GreatTaste3in1).

Great Taste White: Choose Great Win Great 

Promo Period: August 2, 2015 – September 18, 2015 

Per DOH-FDA CFRR Permit No. 0577, Series of 2015 

Promo Mechanics: 

1. This raffle promo is open to all Philippine residents at least eighteen years old by August 1, 2015. 

2. There will be four (4) Regional Draws in GMA, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao and one (1) National Grand Draw. 

3. Participants can only win once in the four (4) Regional Draws in GMA, North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. 

4. Winning entries in the Regional Draws shall no longer qualify for the National Grand Draw. 

5. Non-winning entries in the Regional Draws shall still qualify for the National Grand Draw. 

6. If a Participant wins more than once on the same Regional Draw date and/or National Grand Draw, the prize of the higher value will be awarded to the winner. The prize of lower value shall be raffled off again. 

7. Participants shall submit empty wrappers of any of the following to qualify for one (1) Entry: 

8. Participants shall write down the following details on a sheet of paper. The paper must then be placed inside a plain white envelope together with the required number of Great Taste White wrappers. There shall only be one (1) Entry per envelope. Envelopes shall be labelled -

“Great Taste White: Choose Great, Win Great Raffle Promo.”

· Complete name (same as valid ID) (mandatory)  

· Birth date (mandatory)  

· Current address (specify house number, barangay, street, subdivision and city) (mandatory)  

· Mobile Number or Landline Number (mandatory) 

· Store Outlet (where you purchased) (mandatory)  

· Email address (if available)

· Signature (mandatory) 

9. Participants may drop their Entries at the nearest “Great Taste White: Choose Great, Win Great Raffle Promo” drop box located in participating supermarkets and outlets nationwide starting August 02, 2015 (Sunday).

©2015 Endemol International. Big Brother is a trademark of Endemol Nederland B.V., registered in the Philippines and other countries, and is being used under license. 

Great Taste White makes everyday wins taste even better with the Choose Great, Win Great!

Take a teeny break with Jack ‘n Jill Mintini

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Whether it’s studying long hours, beating deadlines or engaging in any other hectic activity, we all need to take an invigorating break to recharge.

Stay on-the-go and make short breaks count with the refreshing Mintini Sweet Mint Soft Candy, the first mint flavored soft chewy candy from Jack ‘n Jill that guarantees a minty breather in the middle of busy days.

This deliciously chewy candy will leave everyone feeling refreshed and ready for any endeavor. Grab a pack of Mintini Sweet Mint Soft Candy in groceries and supermarkets near you.

Enjoy the asim-kilig goodness of sampalok with Jack ‘n Jill Champalok

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Here's the latest flavors to make snacking even more fun -  Jack ‘n Jill Candies new tamarind-flavored gummy candy, Champalok! Tickle your tastebuds with a sweet-sour combination and get snacking with the asim-kilig sarap of Jack ‘n Jill Champalok.

Jack ‘n Jill Champalok is a delightful, modern take on the candied tamarind treats many enjoyed when they were young. The latest snack offers a burst of sweet and sour flavors with every bite. It tastes just like good ole sampalok, sans the seeds!

This candy is packed with the same sampaloc flavor you know and love, but without the seed. Packed in a 20gm snack pack, this affordable P5 (SRP) treat can be enjoyed any time of the day, making it the perfectly on-the-go snack. 

Take the fun to a whole new level with a pack of Champalok. This gummy and chewy treat is available at all leading supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores nationwide.

Scavenger with big dreams hailed as global kids’ inspiration

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The first Southeast Asian, Kesz Valdez to receive the award from the 2012 International Children’s Peace Prize by the Netherlands-based Kids Rights Foundation.

Maltreated by his own parents, Cris “Kesz” Valdez ran away from home. He was four years old at that time. Growing up, he kept himself alive by sleeping atop tombs and begging in the slums of Manila. Despite the challenges he faced at a very young age, Kesz channeled the negative into positive. As a result, he was awarded with the 2012 International Children’s Peace Prize by the Netherlands-based Kids Rights Foundation. He is the first Southeast Asian to receive the award.

A kind-hearted man saves the dayz. Cold, hungry, and covered in scabs, Kesz was spotted by Harnin “KB” Manalaysay, founder of local Christian charity group Club 8586, who eventually enrolled him in an alternative learning program known as the Kariton Klasrum.

Developed by KB and CNN 2009 Hero of the Year Efren Peñaflorida, the Kariton Klasrum is a program where volunteers wheel wooden pushcarts filled with learning materials and sanitation supplies into shantytowns to teach basic education and hygiene practices to out-of-school children. It was through the Kariton Klasrum that Kesz learned how to read, write, and care for himself.However, upon returning home, Kesz was forced to scavenge once again. KB took him in and treated him as his own after Kesz met an accident that severely burned parts of his arms and back.When Kesz turned seven, KB offered to throw a birthday celebration. It could have been Kesz’s first time to experience such, but he thought of others before himself. Instead of receiving a birthday treat, he asked KB if he could give gifts to street children in Cavite instead. With KB’s full support, he gave out slippers, snacks and other items that he aptly called Gifts of Hope. That same year and at such a young age, Kesz made the bold decision to reach out to more children by starting his very own organization.

Kesz makes his own mark in society. Filled with compassion for others and inspired by people who continually give without expecting anything in return, Kesz founded the Championing Community Children or C3. 

“My classmates and I were thrilled when the construction of the second floor began,” says Kesz Valdez, founder of Championing Community Children (C3). Kesz along with other grade nine students take their classes inside the classrooms donated by Universal Robina Corporation.

“We hope to make a difference by teaching kids four basic things: hygiene, rights, nutrition, and gardening.” Kesz firmly believes that by teaching kids the importance of proper hygiene, informing them about their basic rights, distributing nourishing snacks, and sharing ways on how to create a greener environment for all, out-of-school youth will be more prepared in the challenges life offers.

Since its inception in 2005, C3 has helped thousands of kids and is continuously making significant changes in the lives of many. Because of this organization, Kesz rose to fame as the first Southeast Asian to receive the International Children's Peace Prize award. 

“I was given a trophy, an international podium where I can talk about children’s needs and supplementary educational support until I graduate from college,” shared Kesz. The awardee cleared that he did not receive any money from the foundation that bestowed the recognition.

An abundance of blessings. Kesz still leads a humble yet inspiring life with his foster parents in Cavite City, where he is a grade 9 pupil in DTC’s educational program. Kesz and his classmates take their classes in the URC Learning center, an educational facility sponsored by Universal Robina Corporation (URC). Adding fun and excitement to their classes, the walls of the learning center are adorned with colorful murals of URC brands such as Jack ‘n Jill Knots, Chiz Curls, Magic Flakes, Fun Fries, Wafrets, Roller Coaster, Refresh, C2, and Payless Instant Mami.

John Lloyd brings #MagicMoments to unsuspecting fans

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John Lloyd Cruz, the Magic Man has struck again!  This time in selected areas nationwide, as he springing into the lives of unsuspecting people during their daily routines, Magic Crackers’ longtime endorser brought with him surprises and special prizes that transformed ordinary situations into magical moments. 

As part of the “Nothing Like Magic” campaign of Universal Robina Corporation’s (URC) Jack ‘n Jill Magic, John Lloyd visited Laguna, Pampanga, Cebu, Iloilo and Manila to show that magic moments can happen to anyone, anywhere and anytime, when he and Magic Crackers are around.

One could not believe her eyes when she read her instant prize: “Congratulations! You win a BIG hug from John Lloyd Cruz, NOW NA!” She was even more shocked when the charming actor appeared out of nowhere and gave her and one-year-old son Jehoram Mendigorin a warm embrace. John Lloyd also gave the housewife a Magic Family Treat worth P50,000, which consists of URC products and shopping money. 

At the Centro Supermarket in San Pablo City, Laguna, the magic moment happened when 29-year-old Charita Tuyogan bought a pack of Magic Flakes which entitled her to pick an instant prize from a bowl at the Magic booth. 

“Ang sarap palang magka-Magic Moment,” said Charita upon learning of her prize.

A lucky grocer at the Iloilo Supermart got the surprise of her life when, after being made to wait for a sample product, she came face-to-face with John Lloyd who personally replenished the stocks in the Magic booth. Aside from meeting the matinee idol, special education student Karen Almojallas of Lapaz, Iloilo City also received a Magic Back-To-School Package worth P50,000, which consists of a laptop and Robinsons gift checks. At the Iloilo Airport, John Lloyd pulled a surprise on Micah Seminio of Calumpang, General Santos City as she was waiting for her flight home. The celebrity approached the unwary passenger and talked to her, acting as if they were old friends who have not seen each other for a long time. To celebrate the magic moment, the award-winning actor gifted her with a Magic Shopping Treat worth P50,000, which consists of URC products and Robinsons gift checks. 

At the Clark International Airport in Pampanga, 27-year-old overseas Filipino worker Jennifer Daquigan of Sta. Maria, Pangasinan was waiting for her flight to Hong Kong when she suddenly noticed John Lloyd sitting in front. She was thrilled when the matinee idol started talking to her and was excited when the Magic Man presented her with a Magic Negosyo Starter worth P50,000 of URC products.

“Napakasaya, ang sarap ng feeling” was how the lucky OFW summed up her Magic moment experience.

Angeles Public Market store owner Corazon Ocampo experienced a unique and rewarding surprise. A URC delivery guy who looked exactly like John Lloyd Cruz, came over one day not only to deliver boxes of Magic Crackers but also to give her a Magic Vacation Package worth P50,000, inclusive of airfare via Cebu Pacific, 2-night accommodation and pocket money.

At the Robinsons Supermarket in Fuente, Cebu, Jenevie Verances got excited upon knowing she will receive a freebie after purchasing Magic Flakes. Her excitement turned to tears of joy when the Magic man appeared out of nowhere to give her another gift—a Magic Domestic Vacation Package worth P50,000.

For University of Cebu students Rosa May Roa, Grace Alcovendas, Bob Burton Paglinawan, Exille Dio Golvin and Harold Hope Ariar, an ordinary trip to a photo booth turned into a magical moment when John Lloyd suddenly appeared to give them a Magic Rainy Day Shopping Spree consisting of P50,000 worth of Robinsons gift checks. During their school’s annual pep rally, little did the students of the Technological Institute of the Philippines Manila know that simply participating in one of the games could win them such a magical moment. After a series of elimination games, Ester Policarpio, Jomabell Loscano, Sheryll Limpios, Zyren Joy Tristeza and Paula Isabel Sazon found themselves lucky to end up as game winners. As they were about to get their prizes, they saw John Lloyd Cruz walking towards their direction. The heartthrob awarded them with a Sem Starter Surprise in the form of Robinsons gift checks worth P50,000, making their victory even sweeter.

All Robinsons gift checks are valid for use in all Robinsons Retail Holdings stores such as Robinsons Supermarket, Robinsons Department Store, Handyman, Toys R Us, Topshop, Warehouse, River Island, and many more.

Enjoy the wonderful world of Magic Flakes! You are the real Magic Man John Lloyd Cruz and thanks to Magic Team for bringing the #MagicMoments to our home.

John Lloyd Cruz and Magic Crackers have a lot more tricks up their sleeve.

Who knows, you might find them in your neighborhood one day with their surprises and special prizes, turning ordinary times into magic moments.

Flourish Pilipinas: Celebrating, Nurturing, and Preserving Philippine Flour-Based Delicacies

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Food conglomerate Universal Robina Corporation- Flour Division and the Department of Tourism’s Tourism Promotions Board prove once again that when government and the private sector collaborate, great things can happen!

With the recent signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) supporting food tourism, both parties have formally launched Flourish Pilipinas, a campaign that recognizes and celebrates Filipino flour- based delicacies either through time-tested traditions or bold innovations.

This interesting event hosted by Anthony Suntay, was attended by members of media and we were serenated by the celebrity couple awesome singers Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez while we were having a sumptuous lunch.  

TV Host Anthony Suntay

Robert Seña and Isay Alvarez 

Flourish Pilipinas encourages chefs, restaurateurs, bakeshop owners and operators, food technicians, culinary students, and other food professionals to integrate locally available ingredients to their flour-based products such as: Pizza ala Bagnet, Lechon Quiche, Kesong Puti Malunggay Buns, Yema Ube Pastel, Halo Halo Cake, Durian Raisin Cookies and other mouth-watering delicacies.

Supported by Bakewell, Brim, Corman Butter, Kitchen Aid, McCormick, Saf Yeast, Suchero, Tulip Chocolate, US Wheat Associates and Yummy Magazine, this campaign has two major projects: the Baking Competition and the Baking Academy:

A nationwide baking competition with three main categories will be conducted:

The Professional Categories that are open to professional pastry chefs, bakery and bakeshop owners and pastry instructors include:

 Globe Award– For Recipes using hard flour (URC’s Globe or Blend 100 Flour)

 Sampaguita Award - For Recipes using soft flour (URC’s Sampaguita Flour) The Student Category is open to students enrolled in courses for hotel and restaurant management, food technology or the culinary and pastry arts.

 Daisy Award - For Recipes using cake flour (URC’s Daisy Flour)

How to Join The Contest

Contestants must fill out an entry form which can be accessed through the recipe contest tab in the URC Flour/Flourish Pilipinas Facebook Page. It can also be downloaded from the URC Website.

Entries can be submitted to the Flourish Pilipinas Facebook Page or emailed to Kayla Andrea at operations@dtc.com.ph

All entries submitted will automatically become the property of Universal Robina Flour Division.FLOUR DIVISION

Deadline for submission of entries are as follows: 

For GMA and Luzon – April 30, 2013 

For Cebu and Davao – May 31, 2013

Baking Competition Finals

Should a contestant’s entry be chosen as a finalist –entry, he or she must agree to participate in a bake-off in the following areas:

 GMA - June15 

 Baguio – July 6

 Cebu - July 27 

 Davao- August10

Prizes

Winners shall each receive P10,000 in cash, Kitchen Aid Mixers and other prizes from sponsors.

Calendar

Winning entries will be featured in a 2014 URC Calendar.

BAKING ACADEMY

A nationwide baking academy will also be conducted among selected bakery owners, pastry chefs and students in the following areas:

 GMA - June15

 Baguio – July 6

 Cebu - July 27 

 Davao- August10

These academies will feature exciting lectures and demos from top pastry chefs on the latest baking trends and innovations.

For more information, interested parties may visit the Flourish Pilipinas Fan Page

or email Kayla Andrea at operations@dtc.com.ph 

or call Kayla at (02) 892 -58-42 / (02) 813-49-30 

or text 0916-483-8333

Bake Fun in the Philippines! URC Flourish Pilipinas Baking Academy 

and Bake-off Competition