AXA Philippines embraces the power of art to promote mental health advocacy

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Multiple studies present compelling evidence of the transformative effects of the arts on mental health and well-being. These art engagements may range from music therapy for pain management, drama therapy to support social-emotional development, and dance programs for Parkinson’s Disease patients, among others.[1] Growing literature also reveals that art activities may lead to lower levels of stress and daily anxiety, decreased risk of depression, and the development of self-esteem, self-acceptance, confidence, and self-worth.[2] Committed to promoting optimal mental health and overall wellness, AXA Philippines is harnessing the power of art to promote its mental health advocacy through a collaboration with the multidisciplinary art platform Nude Floor.

The dance performance choreographed by Ashvinder Singh embraces the healing power of movement.

Blending art and advocacy

AXA Philippines recently showed support for Nude Floor’s immersive art event called “The Gallery – A Night of Sensory Explorations.” Tapping choreographers, musicians, and visual artists, the interactive art experience served as a platform where both the artists and the attendees became active participants in the dialogue surrounding mental health. It was a unique collaborative exercise between restraint and letting go, reminding the audience of the importance of sensorial awareness when navigating around our everyday realities.

Held at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, the space was transformed into a 360-degree setting where viewers could freely move around the surface and interact with the local artists' exhibits and installations. The audience also enjoyed an immersive, 90-minute sit-down show featuring several pieces from various movement artists.

Contemporary artist Chloe Alcid’s dance performance perfectly captures the power of art to evoke emotions and inspire audiences

The event brought a fusion of creative expressions, spanning Visual Art, Poetry, 4D Installations, and Live Music. This kinetic exhibition explored the value of intuition, rawness, and vulnerability, underlining how emotional exposure fosters authentic connections.

The partnership between the global insurer and the artists of Nude Floor is an equally strategic and creative approach to advance their shared vision and cause. Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer, emphasizes the significance of the partnership, stating, "Our collaboration with Nude Floor puts the spotlight on mental health, a discussion often perceived as taboo due to the stigma surrounding it. By supporting an innovative and immersive art experience, we hope to inspire and encourage more people to embark on a journey towards better mental health by embracing art as a powerful outlet to express themselves."

"The Gallery" provided participants with an opportunity to explore their own mental landscapes, fostering a deep understanding of themselves and those around them. This transformative experience leaves a lasting impression, precisely aligning with the event's objective of raising awareness about mental health through personal, emotional, and relatable encounters.

AXA’s continuous global mission

The insurance provider has built a reputation for devoting time and resources to developing solutions and supporting programs aimed at helping individuals around the world reach the peak of good mental health. Among its notable global initiatives is the annual AXA Study of Mind Health and Well-being conducted to measure mental well-being worldwide, identify why some people are struggling, and look at how individuals, healthcare professionals, and policymakers can promote the best possible mental health outcomes for all.

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[1] https://www.who.int/news/item/25-09-2023-ground-breaking-research-series-on-health-benefits-of-the-arts

[2] https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/329834/9789289054553-eng.pdf?sequence=3

Chevron Marks Volunteer Day 2023 with Career Training and values formation for disadvantaged Youths of Don Bosco Pugad

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Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants, together with the Caltex Makati Credit Cooperative (CMCC), recently partnered with Don Bosco Pugad to provide professional coaching and career training for disadvantaged youth.

Young men from Don Bosco Pugad received coaching and career training from Haraya Coaching sponsored by Chevron Philippines Inc.

The activity marks CPI’s annual volunteering activity for this year. Twenty (20) disadvantaged youth scholars from Don Bosco Pugad were selected to participate.

Every year Chevron employees devote their time and energy to directly serve their host communities. This year’s theme focused on youth empowerment through career training and workforce preparation.

During the program conducted at the Don Bosco Pugad, the young men talked about their strengths, experiences, and future goals through a series of enriching and interactive activities. Besides coaching and training, attendees received tips from Chevron representatives on skills and knowledge needed to navigate formal interviews and the professional world.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Chevron and CMCC for the invaluable support they've provided. Their assistance will help in creating a positive influence in the lives of the Pugad boys alongside our organization’s efforts,” shared Father Villasanta, executive director of Don Bosco Pugad.

Chevron has a long history of partnership with Don Bosco Pugad as part of the Caltex Energy for Learning initiative. CPI provided commercial-grade equipment such as mixers, rollers as well as LPG for Don Bosco Pugad. The partnership birthed several livelihood projects such as Manna from Heaven Bakeshop which sells bread and pastries to the surrounding subdivision and condo residents. The success of the bakeshop led to Pugad’s quaint Coffee and Saints Café which has become a favorite hangout and meeting place of parishioners after attending mass. Chevron and Pugad also launched the Caltex Pugad Mobile Mechanics, an auto repair program created to bring Pugad’s skilled mechanics to its customers’ homes.

"Our partnership with Don Bosco goes back many years. We've been involved in providing equipment and offering assistance in training Pugad’s youth and housewives of the nearby residents of barangay Pio del Pilar in meat processing and making pan de sal, among other corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects," CPI Corporate Affairs Manager Atty. Raissa Bautista recalled.

“Our ongoing collaboration with Don Bosco Pugad represents a sustainable partnership that we take great pride in. We've brought foreign executives here to highlight this project as an integral component of our enduring CSR initiatives. We commend Don Bosco Pugad not only for incorporating spiritual teachings and values in its endeavors but also for seamlessly integrating livelihood components and applications as in activities involving their bakeshop and cafe. All these create a sustainable cycle that aligns perfectly with our goals, and we are immensely proud of the results,” Atty. Bautista added.

Marife Jose, vice chairperson of CMCC, conveyed her final thoughts to close off the event: “We extend our deepest thanks to Don Bosco Pugad for their invaluable contributions today. We are thrilled to have been a part of this momentous occasion and we hope that what transpired today will hone the participants' skills and prepare them adequately for future interviews and employment opportunities.”

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About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and seeking to grow lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

CHERRY Cares continues to spark hope on the fourth year of its Project Twinkle

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CHERRY Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of CHERRY Philippines, is once again making a meaningful impact on the community through its Project Twinkle. Since 2021, it has been a CSR program aimed at promoting the giving spirit over the holiday season.

The elderlies at House of Somang in Parañaque

This year, the focus is on reaching out to different child-care institutions, home for the elderly, street families, and the IP community. CHERRY Cares extends support to MBTC Manila Kids Home, Concordia Children Services, Inc., the Minstrels Rythym of Hope Foundation, Kanlungan sa Er-Ma, Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC), Laura Vicuña Foundation, and House of Somang in Parañaque. In addition, the hope to bring a touch of warmth is also sent to the IP community of Sitio Magata, Tanay Rizal.

With a simple yet worthwhile get-together, the organization aims to create a space of happiness. Jollibee meals and Cosmic Plush Toys were given to the young hearts who have faced neglect, abandonment, and abuse. Moreover, CHERRY Cares also did the extra mile to ensure that the gifts distributed align with the practical needs of the recipients by granting their wish list. Essential food items and hygiene kits are provided, emphasizing the importance of their well-being.

The children of Kanlungan Er-Ma Inc.

Meanwhile, CHERRY Cares demonstrates that the holiday season is not only about festive decorations and celebrations but also an opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of those less fortunate. The distribution of Media Noche package has reached 100 street families from different districts of Manila in coordination with DSWD-NCR.

The IP Community of Sitio Magata, Tanay Rizal receiving their Media Noche Package

“We are happy to light up lives and make this season brighter through our Project Twinkle. We’ve been doing this for quite some time. This is our CEO, Mr. Maynard Ngu’s way of returning the gratitude by simply giving back,” shares Agnes Conopio, PR and CSR Senior Manager of CHERRY.

As we conclude Project Twinkle 2023, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the spirit of generosity transcends the exchange connection that binds us all. Whether through a helping hand, a warm meal, or a simple act of kindness. For in giving, we receive the priceless gift of a more connected, resilient, and compassionate world."

Learn more about CHERRY and its other CSR programs through:

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.

Showcasing holiday celebration with vivo V29 Series 5G

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December is nothing short of exciting, especially the final week of the month as parties are in full swing!

In the waning moments of the year, vivo, the trailblazing technology giant, capped off 2023 with a bang! The Bibong vivo Year-end Party, held on December 22, left an indelible mark on the memories of all of its attendees as the brand marked the culmination of an extraordinary year.

In a milestone celebration like this, a great camera smartphone is an indispensable tool for capturing and immortalizing all the fun instances.

With the vivo V29, its superior camera system seizes spontaneous and fleeting moments, in stunning portraits, to extend the joy of the event beyond physical boundaries!

The vivo V29 is the latest flagship smartphone of vivo with an upgraded Aura Portrait 2.0 and Night Algorithm which are both advanced features that aid the users in capturing clear and vibrant images across a spectrum of environments.

From electrifying performances and groundbreaking announcements, let's explore the highlights that made vivo’s event an exhilarating journey into the future and a fitting tribute to the year gone by, brought to you by the vivo V29 Series 5G:

Breathtaking opening dance performance

The up-and-coming all-male dance group, Dejaboys, kicked off the event with their dynamically choreographed dance sequences.

With vivo V29’s enhanced Night Mode feature, photos are rendered in their most crisp form so users will be able to take next-level content even in low-light situations!

Smiles, sparkles, and shine

The attendees of the party were seen all smiles all throughout the evening!

Want perfect stills? No problem! vivo V29’s Aura Portrait 2.0 serves as a portable studio light that can adjust the flash’s color temperature, empowering users to craft stunning portraits - whether candid or posed!

Dancing the night away

The party crowd soared with cheer as the TikTok-famous all-female dance group, team i, graced the stage and showed their exhilarating dance routines.

Festive awards and announcements

The night was filled with a cascade of awards and prizes, showering attendees with well-deserved recognition and surprises!

Before the party ended, vivo Philippines’ Head of Brand Marketing Liu Lu (pictured on the right), also ushered in a preview of what’s to come in the ever-evolving realms of technology by vivo.

From thrilling smartphone releases to exciting events, vivo promises to stand at the forefront of the mobile industry this 2024.

Be sure to visit vivo official website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, or TikTok for the latest smartphone updates!

Last-Minute Holiday Gifts: Influencer Picks of the Season

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Check out heartthrob David Licauco as FitFlop’s celebrity personal shopper this holiday season and discover a curated selection of FitFlops from our favorite style influencers Angel Dei, Riva Quenery, Celeste Cortesi, and Kim Tappy.

This last-minute holiday gift guide will elevate your celebrations, help you find the perfect pair for the season’s outfits, and help you find the ultimate presents for yourself or loved ones.

Gift Love with FitFlop

This season’s agenda? Wearing comfort without compromising style.

David Licuanco joined Fitflop’s shoppers on a magical spree last December 17, 2023 at their Mall of Asia branch. David played celebrity personal shopper and picked out the comfiest footwear for the holidays. David personally got to know patrons and chose each pair for shoppers in-store. The star himself rocked the Fitflop Anatomiflex Leather Panel Sneakers paired with a bright red sweater and beige pants, giving a touch of festive spirit to the casual look.

David’s personal recommendations to shoppers were all about comfort, fashion, and a generous sprinkle of festive spirit in true Fitflop style. The celebrity Santa made the shopping experience extra special and definitely memorable.

Gifting to Your BFF

Angel Dei (@angeldei) loves keeping it comfy in a pair of Fitflop F-MODE Padded Leather Flatform Cross Slides. Cool, easy, and contemporary, these buttery leather slides are extra soft and silky on the feet. Made with FitFlop’s Microwobbleboard™ technology, these deliver ergonomic all-day comfort. This chic pair is the best gift for your BFFs (Try to resist the urge to steal it for yourself.)

Giving Back to Mom

Riva Quenery (@riva) sports a clean classic design with her Fitflop Eloise Cork-Wrap Leather Backstrap Wedge Sandals. The straps are crafted in smooth high-quality leather, and its curvy adjustable buckles (in brushed metal for a refined feel) ensure they stay on for the busy moms this Christmas season. Show your love to Mom with this perfect pair!

Going on a Tropical Vacation

Celeste (@celeste_cortesi) rocks the Fitflop Surf Adjustable Leather Back-Strap Slides. A fresh and sporty take of FitFlop's legendary supercushioning Microwobbleboard™ midsole. The pair has a rubber outsole that enhances the grip, making these suited for sandy beaches, the splashy outdoors, and the sunny tropical weather.

Gearing Up For Holiday Tours

Kim Tappy (@kim_tappy) fell head over heels in love (quite literally) with this classic pair of Fitflop Rally Leather Suede Panel Sneakers. The super popular Rally trainers with curvy paneling are softly padded, fresh, and casual. The ideal present for someone who knows how to dress up a casual outfit with a good pair of sneakers.

Kim also gave us the perfect holiday tip: Make sure to wear your favorite FitFlops for light country trails, as well as in the city, or on a busy holiday exploring on your feet.

Cozy Classics for the Season’s Parties

Vern Ong (@vernfloresong) loves to style his Fitflop Vitamin FFX Knits Sports with a casual monochrome. Perfect for both traveling and regular days at home. The sleek superlight sports trainer helps you move more and feel great. Biomechanically engineered for exercise and casual running, but equally good for dancing at this holiday’s get-togethers, the gift for someone who brings the party with them!  The best Vitamin isn't in a pill, it's on your feet…

Check these influencer picks for yourself and visit their physical stores at Greenhills, MOA, Trinoma, Alabang Town Center, SM, Bacoor, SM San Lazaro, SM Fairview, SM Megamall, SM North Edsa, SM Pampanga, SM Baguio, SM Cabanatuan, RP Antipolo, RP Tacloban, Abreeza, Ayala Capitol, Baymall, Centrio, Gateway, Marquee and Bacolod.

Stay updated with Fitflop’s collection of products, and upcoming news on Facebook and Instagram.

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About FitFlop

Founded in 2007, FitFlop is a global lifestyle brand renowned for its innovation and technology in footwear. With wellness at its heart, FitFlop creates footwear with an uncompromising mission to empower you to move better and feel great.