Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Marquez Dee's evening gown at the prelims

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"A symbol of power, transformation, and wisdom "

Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Marquez Dee with the Miss Universe 2023 contestants compete in evening gown during the Preliminary Competition held earlier today in El Salvador

A closer look at Michelle Dee's cut-out gown by internationally renowned fashion designer Mark Bumgarner, bedecked with 30,000 Swarovski crystals.

Michelle Dee and Mark patterned her preliminaries gown from Melanie’s winning look from Miss International 1979. The emerald green color was inspired by Melanie Marquez

Crafted by Mark Bumgarner, the gown sparkled with thousands of Swarovski crystals, while the deep green pays homage to her advocacy for autism and also serves as a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Melanie Marquez, adding layers of meaning and personal connection to this stunning creation.

Delving more into the intricacies of the design, Mark added, “The evening gown is fully encrusted with three shades of emerald green Swarovski crystals and contrasted black [ones] to give it a different dimension under the light. Overall, the dress is covered with thousands of crystals.”

Further integrating Melanie’s legacy of movement that forms into the letter S, Michelle decided to take it further by owning the snake symbol. “I wanted it to look like the skin of a green viper,” the designer pointed out. “It is a symbol of power, transformation, and wisdom.”

Photos : FB 

Workers in the Philippines more open to using AI at work than global peers

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Workers in the Philippines are some of the most open to using AI in the workplace globally, according to new research released by Qualtrics, the leaders and creators of the experience management category.

Based on responses from nearly 37,000 employees globally, including more than 500 in the Philippines, the annual Qualtrics Employee Experience Trends Report reveals just over half of local workers (53%) are favorable toward using AI at work for tasks such as writing, as a personal assistant, and when seeking internal support - a figure higher than the global average (42%).

While workers in the Philippines also return some of the highest levels of engagement (83% compared to 68% global average), this figure has decreased by 5 points compared to the previous 12 months, according to the study. Employee well-being and meeting employee expectations have also declined by 2 points during the same period, while an employee’s intent to stay for 3+ years and inclusion have remained stable.

These trends in the indicators of an optimal employee experience are reflected across Southeast Asia - with scores declining in Malaysia and Thailand, and stalling in Singapore - highlighting the need for organizations to refocus towards people-centricity.

The table above shows how Filipino workers scores the key indicators of an optimal employee experience from 2022-2024 against the global average

“As economies focus on improving productivity, employee experience is one of the most important levers to prioritize. There is a well-established connection between employee engagement and organizational performance - from innovation and profitability, through to better customer service and employee health outcomes. Organizations that maintain their people-centric focus and effectively enable their teams to do great work, will be the standout performers in the years to come,” said Dr. Cecelia Herbert, Principal XM Catalyst at Qualtrics XM Institute.

The EX Trends in the Philippines in 2024

Alongside highlighting the state of EX in 2024 in the Philippines, the dedicated team of EX experts at Qualtrics analyzed findings in the study to reveal emerging trends in the workplace:

● Some time in the office is better than none - unless it’s five days

● Employees would rather AI assist them than evaluate them

● Frontline employees are unhappy, poorly supported and least trusting

● The new job honeymoon phase has vanished

● Employees are comfortable sharing work emails and chats for an improved employee experience, but more ambivalent about social media posts being used

Some time in the office is better than none - unless it’s five days

As the debate continues over how many days employees should spend in the office, the Qualtrics research shows many of the key indicators of a positive employee experience – engagement, intent to stay, and well-being - are highest for employees with hybrid work schedules.

The table shows how employees globally feel a fully remote (0 days in the office), hybrid (2-4 days in the office), or full return-to-office work setup.

Employees would rather AI assist them than evaluate them

Workers are more comfortable with AI in the workplace when they have a sense of control over it - such as for writing tasks (72% of employees would use AI for this), as a personal assistant (66% of employees), and contacting support functions (54%) - than in higher-stakes situations like education (47%) or hiring decisions (47%).

Frontline employees are unhappy, poorly supported and least trusting 

Frontline workers[1], such as cashiers, restaurant servers, and retail workers, play a critical role in business outcomes and are often the most important driver of a great customer experience. However, when compared to all employees, morale and job satisfaction are at their lowest among frontline employees—

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[1] Frontline workers are defined here as individual contributors and frontline managers who work directly with the public and work in selected functions (food/beverage service, sales, patient care, customer support/services, IT support, or education/training)

Celebrate the Holidays with Heartfelt Gift Ideas from Mocasa

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The holiday season is a time of wonder and magic, when people gather to celebrate love, gratitude, and the joy of giving. Choosing the perfect gift for your loved ones can be a fun but difficult and a bit costly endeavor.

Good thing, there is Mocasa, the Philippines’ first virtual credit wallet, which offers a Pay Later credit line of up to PHP30,000 repayable over 50 days at 0% interest. Simply download the app, apply for a "Pay Later" account, provide any required documentation (such as government IDs and proof of income), and you'll be approved in minutes. Once approved, you can now start your holiday shopping online using Mocasa’s virtual Mastercard. You may also use your Pay Later account when purchasing items in stores by simply scanning the QR PH code using the Scan to Pay feature powered by Asia United Bank (AUB).

Aside from Pay Later, Mocasa also provides Quick Loan, which offers a cash loan of up to PHP25,000 for as low as 0.2% daily interest payable in three installments. You can also pay off your Mocasa Quick Loan before the end of billing cycle and just pay the principal plus the actual daily interest.

The Gift of Entertainment and Convenience

Subscribing to streaming platforms take center stage as a novel and fun holiday present in the spirit of modern gifting. Imagine the excitement of receiving not just one present, but a year-long pass to a universe of entertainment. From the latest blockbuster movies, binge-worthy TV shows or as simple as listening to today’s latest music hits, your loved ones can enjoy a wide range of content tailored to their tastes. To make this even more awesome, have some food and booze delivered through food delivery service like foodpanda and pay later using Mocasa.

Another, navigating the metro's hectic holiday rush can surely be exhausting, especially for daily commuters. So, make their travels easier by gifting them a beepTM card preloaded through Mocasa app. They can also skip the long queues if they have insufficient balance. They just simply need to download the Mocasa mobile app, apply for a Pay Later account and activate their virtual Mastercard. Once approved, they can choose either to top-up or use their virtual Mastercard to reload their beepTM card.

DIY Munchies Straight from the Heart

Handmade gifts show love and affection. Try to make a batch of homemade cookies, jams, or leche flan as labor of love that will surely be remembered. It's a good thing you don't have to fear going to the grocery store to purchase the ingredients for these. Fortunately, online grocery delivery services like MetroMart are now available, and you can be sure that you will only receive the best and freshest ingredients. To top it all off, they have a lot of ongoing specials, so make sure to take advantage of them.

To make it even better, if you're a first-time MetroMart customer, you can receive PHP300 off for a minimum purchase of PHP3,000 when you use the code “MOCASANEW” and pay with your Mocasa virtual Mastercard. This offer is valid for one-time use until December 31.

Tech Gadgets for the Future Enthusiast

Consider the latest gadgets and equipment for the tech-savvy people in your life. Aside from smartphones and laptops, smart speakers, fitness trackers, noise-cancelling headphones, and virtual reality experiences can make their life more innovative and convenient. You can start looking for holiday deals at your favorite online stores, such as Lazada and SM Malls Online App, and fill your cart with items to be checked out later with Mocasa Pay Later.

To make online shopping with SM Malls Online App even merrier, sign up with Mocasa and use the referral code "SMONL" to receive a PHP200 e-voucher from SM. Simply install Mocasa, then register either for Pay Later or Quick Loan option. If your application is approved, you will receive your SM e-voucher and be alerted via SMS or in-app notification. Promo runs until December 25.

Gifts of Relaxation and Wellness

Needless to say, holidays are the ideal time for people to unwind, rest, or take care of themselves. So why not provide your loved ones with the care they deserve? You can splurge a bit and pamper them with a spa treatment, a makeover, or a wardrobe update for the upcoming season bought from your favorite online shop. You can also create a Tiktok video montage to recall this enjoyable event, much as they do in movies! And you don't have to worry about payments right away because you can pay it later, anywhere with Mocasa.

Holiday season is a time for giving, and these gift ideas will add a touch of joy and care to your festivities. Whether you choose a personalized touch, experiences over stuff, homemade treats, or luxury indulgences, always remember that the act of giving is a deep expression of love and appreciation. As you begin your Christmas shopping, keep in mind that the most important presents are those that originate from the heart and resonate with your loved ones' hobbies and characteristics. This year, let your gifts reflect the warmth and affection that characterize the holiday season.

Mocasa is a financial technology company duly licensed and regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and an accredited accessing entity of Credit Information Corporation (CIC). To learn more about the latest updates from Mocasa, visit www.mocasa.com or its Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok accounts. Customers are encouraged to download the app in Google Play to know more about its services and latest promos.

CHERRY CARES donate 300 tablets to DILG in support of KONTRA DROGA B.I.D.A (BUHAY INGATAN, DROGA’Y AYAWAN) Program

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CHERRY Cares— the corporate social responsibility arm of CHERRY Philippines, donates a total of 300 units of Flare Tab and Omega Tab Pro tablet to the office of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on November 13, 2023 in Quezon City. This is in behalf of their flagship anti-drug campaign—Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan (BIDA) Program.

(L-R) Atty. Salvacion Z. Baccay, Dir. Debie T. Torres, Atty. Kevin R. Carpeso , ASec. Rolando C. Puno, Ginesty Gilboy, Rica Mae Herrero and Ruzelle Camposano at the turnover ceremony of 300 Cherry Flare Tab and Omega Tab Pro tablets at the DILG Office in Quezon City (November 13, 2023). AP Photo/DILG

BIDA Program is an enhanced and comprehensive anti-drug campaign of DILG nationwide that prioritizes rehabilitation and socioeconomic growth. It's an effort to reduce drug demand while increasing awareness among all facets of the community. The local government units recognized by DILG with exceptional performance in this campaign against illegal drugs are the beneficiary of the CHERRY tablets.

“We are glad that CHERRY Cares signifies its support to the BIDA program with its CHERRY tablets as we honor the outstanding contributions of our Anti-Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) awardees. The ADACs are our heroes committed in implementing the BIDA program and in ultimately achieving the goal of a drug-free Philippines. Surely, the tablets will be a big help to them,” said ASec. Rolando C. Puno, Assistant for Communications and External Affairs.

Atty. Salvacion Z. Baccay, Assistant Director of Bureau of Local Government Supervision; Dir. Debie T. Torres, Director of Bureau of Local Government Supervision; Atty. Kevin R. Carpeso, Head Executive Assistant; and Assistant Secretary Rolando C. Puno, Assistant for Communications and External Affairs were present in the donation turnover. They enthusiastically received the tablets handed over by CHERRY Cares representative, namely Ginesty Gilboy, CHERRY Program Officer; Rica Mae Herrero, PR and CSR Associate; Ruzzelle Camposano, CSR Program Officer; and Marra Lanot, PR and Content Writer.

“It’s an honor to support this initiative of DILG and our local government units. This is part of our appreciation to our LGU’s Anti-Drug Abuse Council. We are hopeful that the tablets will bring value and aid to their campaign,” said Agnes Conopio, PR and CSR Head of Cherry.

CHERRY Cares by MSN Foundation encourages our families and communities to stand with DILG’s campaign in fortifying the drug reduction activities of local government sectors; disseminating awareness through different online and offline material; ensuring the commitment of the national government units and encouraging partnership with various organizations.

To learn more about the foundation and its other programs, visit:

Cherry Cares by MSN Foundation Inc. Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CherryCaresbyMSNFI

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CHERRY caRES is the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principle of Cherry Mobile that stands for Customers, nAtural Resources, Employees, and Society. It embodies the deep desire of the company to give back, share, care, and create a positive impact not just for its own people but more for the greater whole. Since 2011, CHERRY caREs laid the groundwork for the establishment of MSN Foundation, now the corporate foundation of CHERRY. It has spun various education, health, environment, livelihood, and community development programs in the hope of improving lives and igniting change in the nation one community at a time.

The Traveler’s Guide to Celebrating Thailand’s Festival of Lights (Loy Krathong) this November

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Thailand is set to sparkle this November as the country celebrates one of its most colourful and picturesque cultural festivals – Loy Krathong, also known as the Festival of Lights.

To celebrate the water goddess Phrae Mae Khongkha, millions of Thais float (loy) a little raft (krathong) commonly made from banana trunk and topped with flowers and candles. The krathongs carry the hopes, wishes, and gratitude of individuals, and represent the act of letting go of the old and ushering in the new.

Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide every year, on the night of the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar. The festival takes place on 27 November this year, and is a special occasion for both Thais and travellers who flock to the country for this dazzling festival.

Thailand was the #1 most visited country on Airbnb in Southeast Asia last year, with Bangkok the most visited city in the country. This Loy Krathong, Airbnb has already seen a 17 percent surge in international guests searching for a stay in Thailand*. The most popular destinations during this festive period are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Pha Ngan and Krabi.** Many are flocking to The Land of Smiles for the end of year holidays – Airbnb has seen approximately an 88 percent spike in searches by China travellers for November-December travel to Thailand, and an over 15 percent increase in searches by Australian guests in the same period.***

If you’re thinking about visiting Thailand this holiday season, make it one to remember and join the festivities! Read on for Airbnb’s recommendations of the best destinations and places to stay to experience Loy Krathong.

Chiang Mai

Renowned for its mountains and lush forests, Chiang Mai in Thailand’s north is home to the traditional Lanna culture. Loy Krathong celebrations are marked by large ceremonies and illuminated temples and are held at the same time as the Yee Peng festival, where Thais release thousands of  paper lanterns (khom loi) into the night sky – making for a truly incredible sight.

Flowing through the heart of Chiang Mai province is the Ping River, a popular place amongst locals and visitors alike to float krathongs. Tha Phae Gate is another; located on the east side of the old city wall. The surrounding moat is a local favourite and popular gathering place, while Three Kings Monument in front of the old town hall has a lively atmosphere and attracts many to join in the activities.

You can’t leave Chiang Mai without trying the local delicacies, and there are many to choose from. Some must-tries are sai oua (a northern Thai sausage), nam ngiao (sour and spicy noodles with tomato soup), and the always popular khao soi (creamy coconut curry with crispy noodles).

Bangkok

Thailand’s vibrant capital transforms every Loy Krathong, as the city embraces its cultural roots and traditions in a spectacle not to be missed. The main water artery of Bangkok, the Chao Phraya River, is a popular destination for visitors and locals to float krathongs and where you can join in the festivities against the backdrop of iconic landmarks such as Wat Arun. Alternatively, make your way to Wat Saket where you can enjoy a memorable Loy Krathong by one of Bangkok's oldest canals, Khlong Maha Nak, and explore the iconic Golden Mount nearby.

A short stroll from the Chao Phraya is the hip neighbourhood of Song Wat – recently voted  one of the world’s 40 coolest neighbourhoods in 2023 by TimeOut – with an eclectic mix of art galleries and historical buildings to explore. While exploring Bangkok, don’t forget to try the city’s food offerings, from street food vendors offering Thai staples such as pad thai and pad krapow, to markets such as Jodd Fair and Michelin-starred eateries.

Phuket

There’s much more to Phuket than meets the eye. Famous for its beaches and islands, Phuket is steeped in history, and dotted with temples and shrines making for a unique Loy Krathong experience with an island-style vibe. There are more than 30 beaches where locals often float their krathongs. Alternatively, explore some of the less touristy and equally popular spots, such as Sapan Hin Lake and Suan Luang Park in Phuket Town, or Nai Harn Lake in the south or Bang-Ma-Ruan Lake in the north.

When in Phuket, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy some of the freshest seafood caught daily from the Andaman Sea. Delicious Southern dishes to try include kaeng som (sour and spicy soup), massaman (a flavourful, slightly sweet Thai curry) and kaeng tai pla (an intensely spicy curry with fermented fish). And while enjoying island life, don’t forget to explore the history and Sino-Portuguese architecture in Phuket Town.

Searching for your perfect stay this Loy Krathong? Here are a selection of unique Airbnb stays where you can enjoy the sights and sounds:

●     Bohemian Home, Chiang Mai - Unique home located in a local neighbourhood near Tha Phae Gate and Warorot market.

●     Mango Home No.1, Chiang Mai - Adjacent to Sunday Walking Street and Tha Phae Gate, the old city is within easy reach.

●     Funky Handmade House, Chiang Mai - Beautiful hand-crafted teak house nestled along the foothills of Doi Suthep mountain.

●     Canal House, Bangkok - Antique canal house on the Thonburi side (old capital city) of Bangkok.

●     Antique Colonial Luang Prasit Canal Home, Bangkok - Colonial-style teakwood house located on Bangkok Yai Canal.

●     Chic Loft, Bangkok - Artistic loft-style townhouse located in the vibrant Thonglor neighbourhood.

●     Bella Vista Panwa, Phuket - Stunning sea views from this bungalow in Ao Yon on Phuket’s east coast.

●     Pangolin Villa, Phuket - Private pool villa in the north of Phuket close to Nai Thon and Nai Yang beaches.

●     Duplex-Style Pool Villa, Phuket - Duplex pool villa with garden view, located in the popular northwest area of Phuket.

Note

*Based on internal Airbnb data on inbound guest searches for stays in Thailand for check-in in October 2023 vs check-in in November 2023.

** Based on internal Airbnb data on top destinations in Thailand booked this Loy Krathong (check-in between 24-30 Nov 2023).

*** Based on internal Airbnb data on inbound guest searches for stays in Thailand for check-in November-December 2022 vs check-in November-December 2023.

 

Note: All stays referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific stay or experience listings on the Airbnb platform.