Cebuana Lhuillier-Backed Search Crowns First Happiest Itogonian

Tweet

Itogon, Benguet — A local celebration of hope and resilience culminated in the naming of Kristine Joy Semillia, a 23-year-old psychology student and mental health advocate, as the First Happiest Itogonian during the awarding ceremony held at the Fianza Memorial Gymnasium.

The Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation, Inc. (CLFI), in partnership with the Municipality of Itogon and the Itogon Indigenous Peoples Organization (IIPO), launched the localized Search for the Happiest Pinoy earlier this year as one of its special initiatives to inspire communities and honor individuals who live with optimism and purpose despite adversity.

“Our goal has always been to shine a light on stories that uplift and inspire,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, PJ Lhuillier Inc. President and CEO. “Efforts like these allow us to recognize the resilience of Filipinos like Kristine—individuals who prove that happiness is not the absence of hardship, but the triumph of spirit. Her story is exactly why we do what we do.”

Kristine was only eight years old when she survived the devastating 2009 landslide in Barangay Loacan caused by Typhoon Pepeng, which claimed the lives of her parents, sister, and nine other relatives. Now a Naval Reservist, youth leader, and motivational speaker, she shares her powerful journey to ignite hope, foster healing, and empower trauma survivors and young people across Itogon.

“I am not just a survivor—I am a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and community,” Kristine shared during her speech, attributing her strength to her unwavering faith in God.

Winners were chosen from five sectors: Women, PWD, LGBTQIA+, Public Servants, and Youth, with each honoree receiving Php 3,000 and a certificate of recognition. As the overall winner, Kristine received Php 20,000 and a commemorative plaque.

The other awardees included:

· Myra Gwyn Cornel Guilao (Women): A health officer and single mom who overcame serious health issues during college.

· Jenifer Elitan Sadey (PWD): A Stage 5 dialysis patient who provides spiritual and emotional support to fellow patients.

· Greg Landocan (LGBTQIA+): A Magna Cum Laude graduate and educator who advocates for inclusivity while caring for his ailing mother.

· Juna Ballasio-Tavara (Public Servant): A devoted teacher known for her compassionate support of students with disabilities and special needs.

CLFI Executive Director Jonathan Batangan added, “Beyond the gold mines Itogon is known for, its true treasures are its people—those who rise above adversity with a smile and a sense of purpose.”

Itogon Municipal Mayor Bernard Waclin described the event as “a tribute to everyday heroes who inspire happiness, kindness, and hope in our community.”

As Kristine stood before her community—strong, smiling, and deeply grounded—she embodied what the Search set out to celebrate: the undeniable light of someone who has been through the darkest storms and still chooses joy.

The Search for the Happiest Itogonian is among the special grassroots efforts launched by the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation in collaboration with local government units and academic institutions. It serves to build momentum for the Global Search for the Happiest Pinoy, Cebuana Lhuillier’s nationwide campaign recognizing exceptional Filipinos from all walks of life.

The grand winner of the national search will receive a tax-free cash prize of ₱500,000, while finalists in each category will receive ₱35,000 tax-free.

This year’s search introduces a broader and more inclusive set of categories, recognizing inspiring individuals from all sectors of society. These include Masayahing Gen Z, honoring the optimism and energy of today’s youth; Happy at 60, celebrating seniors who embody joy and grace; No Way Kapansanan, recognizing persons with disabilities who inspire through perseverance; Inspiradong Champion, spotlighting manual laborers and professionals who uplift their peers; Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla, a tribute to overseas Filipino workers spreading joy across borders; Bibo sa Negosyo, for entrepreneurs making a difference in their communities; Proud as Pride, celebrating LGBTQIA+ individuals whose happiness inspires courage and inclusivity; and Creative Pinoy, honoring artists and digital creators who spread joy through their craft.

Special awards will also be conferred to outstanding individuals under the Katutubo category for members of indigenous communities, and the Happiest Ka-Cebuana award.

For more details, visit www.happiest-pinoy.com.

Back-to-School and Beyond: Why Mr. Hat Gulaman Deserves a Spot in Your Everyday Kitchen (and Lunchbox)

Tweet

Let’s be real: once the school year kicks in, it’s game on. Mornings start earlier, traffic gets worse, and suddenly everyone’s juggling work, classes, deadlines—and, of course, meals. Whether you’re a parent packing baon, a student rushing between lectures, or someone just trying to eat better during a packed weekday, meal planning quickly becomes one more thing on the to-do list.

If you're looking to keep things interesting—whether for lunchboxes, meriendas, or last-minute desserts—there’s one pantry staple that might surprise you: gulaman. Most of us know it from childhood: those bouncy cubes in fruit salad, or sago’t gulaman that cooled us down on a sweltering afternoon. But today’s gulaman? It's stepping up in entirely new ways.

With Mr. Hat Gulaman, this nostalgic favorite is being reimagined as a daily go-to—versatile, everyday indulgence. Whether you're whipping up something cool and refreshing or warm and cozy, there's a way to work gulaman into your everyday food routine that’s anything but boring.

Your Quiet MVP on Busy Days

Mr. Hat Gulaman is a powder-based jelly mix made from natural seaweed extract—meaning it’s vegetarian, light, and filling in all the right ways. Just mix it with water, boil, and let it set. Adjusting the texture is simple: firmer, softer, or somewhere in between, depending on how much water you use (anywhere from 1 to 1.5 liters).

What sets it apart is variety. Mr. Hat Gulaman comes in 13 variants—seven flavored (Mango, Strawberry, Buko Pandan, Coffee, Pineapple, Melon, Lychee) and six unflavored, labeled by color. The flavored ones are for instant snacks and desserts, while the unflavored ones serve as a base for both sweet and savory recipes.

Rain or Shine, It Works Anytime

The back-to-school season also brings unpredictable weather—sunny mornings, rainy afternoons. And let’s face it, our food cravings shift just as fast. That’s where Mr. Hat Gulaman shines.

On warmer days, it transforms into chilled fruit jelly, creamy milk drinks, or thick jelly shakes. When the skies turn gray? Flip the experience. The Unflavored White variant is great for champorado jelly pudding -- try out this Champorado Jelly Pudding with Mr. Hat Gulaman

Baon Ideas That Actually Excite

The daily baon doesn't have to be a tired rotation of sandwiches and leftovers. Mr. Hat Gulaman adds texture, flavor, and fun—with minimal effort.

Try this sweet, nostalgic treat - The Jelly and Cream Sandwich with layers Mr. Hat Gulaman Strawberry jelly and cream between soft bread—cool, creamy, and fun for kids and grown-ups alike -- Jelly and cream sandwich

It’s Not Just for Moms—It’s for Everyone

This isn’t just a baon trick for moms—it’s for students, work-from-home folks, kitchen experimenters, and even those who barely cook.

Add coffee jelly cubes to your morning iced coffee. Mix unflavored gulaman into overnight oats or chia bowls. Or, if you’re feeling a little extra, create a colorful multi-layer jelly dessert. It’s fun, no-bake, and camera-ready.

Available in groceries, supermarkets, and your favorite apps (you know the orange and blue ones), it’s easy to stock up and always have a pack on hand—just in case inspiration hits.

Everyday Meals Made Special

In a season packed with early alarms, erratic weather, and non-stop schedules, having a go-to ingredient that’s flexible, budget-friendly, and genuinely useful is a win.

Mr. Hat Gulaman brings texture, color, and creativity to your meals—without stress. Whether you’re packing baon, handling rainy-day cravings, or just want to switch things up, this is one pantry staple that works hard behind the scenes.

So next time you're prepping for a busy day, don’t forget Mr. Hat Gulaman. Dahil ano mang panahon o dahilan, #NasaHatKoYan!

PLDT Home's Fiber Fest all set for a grand Finale celebration

Tweet

PLDT’s pioneering broadband festival concludes its tour on June 28

PLDT Home brings its pioneering broadband festival to a powerful close as Fiber Fest 2025 culminates with it grandest event yet – a full-day spectacle of connectivity, entertainment and community spirit – on June 28 in Pasay City.

From Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao, Fiber Fest has empowered Filipino communities with fast, reliable and accessible fiber connectivity. The Pasay leg Finale is set to raise the bar with a culminating celebration highlighting breakthrough offers and unforgettable community experiences.

Pop power also meets sports stardom at the Finale event with a headline performance by P-pop phenomenon Eleven11 and special participation of volleyball icons of the PLDT High Speed Hitters Mika Reyes, Jessey de Leon, Kim Fajardo, Kath Arado, and Kiesha Bedonia.

PLDT Home High Speed Hitters Jessey de Leon

PLDT Home High Speed Hitters Kath Arado

PLDT Home High Speed Hitters Kiesha Bedonia

PLDT Home High Speed Hitters Kim Fajardo

PLDT Home High Speed Hitters Mika Reyes

“Fiber Fest is a celebration of how far we have come, not just in technology but in our mission to empower every Filipino home nationwide. With every Fiber Fest leg, we are not just providing broadband solutions but building bridges to empower dreams, passions, and opportunities as we enable better and reliable digital access in every community,” says Patrick Tang, First Vice President and Head of Home Acquisition Marketing.

A Festival Built on Community Connection

Over the past months, Fiber Fest 2025 has travelled around Luzon, drawing thousands of families in every city.

Last March, Fiber Fest kicked off in Pasig City with a massive community turnout, exclusive broadband deals, and exciting rewards all in one event.

Fiber Fest also treated Batanguenos and Kapampangans with interactive exhibits and fun activities, highlighting the impact of connectivity and better digital access in the regions.

In Cavite and Bulacan, the Fiber Fest tour brought the best fiber experience to underserved areas – bridging digital gaps with high-speed solutions and the promise of same-day connectivity.

Fiber Fest also drew crowds in different parts of Visayas and Mindanao through special on-ground events, local contests and major raffle prizes that created buzz across cities.

All these regional runs brought PLDT Home Fiber closer to families.

The Finale Run Highlights

All roads are leading to Don Carlos Village in Pasay City this weekend, where Fiber Fest concludes its tour with a jam-packed event featuring exclusive promos, non-stop entertainment and prizes.

• · Strong, Reliable Connections

The Fiber Fest Finale will bring exclusive offers including Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 and the newest products of PLDT Home – Fiber Prepaid and Always On.

PLDT Home Fiber Prepaid offers families with flexibility and stability of a dedicated fiber connection, giving them freedom to enjoy digital access as they need it.

The PLDT Home Always On service provides a hybrid modem that combines the power of fiber and LTE in one device, a groundbreaking solution that ensures uninterrupted connectivity for subscribers, especially during unexpected fiber outages.

Fiber Fest also gives communities a chance to win life-changing prizes with PLDT Home’s One Mega Giveaway (OMG) where subscribers get a chance to win a brand-new Toyota Fortuner, P1 Million cash, or free PLDT Home Fiber subscription for life.

 

• · Top-notch Entertainment

Capping off a nationwide hunt for the country’s next viral dance sensation, the much-awaited Grand Finals of the Tiktok Star Search will happen at the Fiber Fest Finale.

Crowd favorite activities such as celebrity performances and games are also expected to bring thrill and excitement to festival goers.

As the country’s first and only broadband festival, Fiber Fest became a unique movement that highlights the life-changing impact of digital access for Filipino families. More importantly, it has become a platform for the celebration and empowerment of many communities.

As Pasay City takes the final spotlight, Fiber Fest signs off with a strong promise: a future of fast, reliable and inclusive internet for all. # # #

GMA with HONOR 400 5G crown Mad Ramos as Ultimate Sparkle Campus Cutie

Tweet

Your AI Phone HONOR 400 5G just powered GMA’s new talent search

Leading global technology brand HONOR continues to make waves even after the launch of the HONOR 400 5G on June 17. In the recently concluded talent search of GMA, Sparkle Campus Cutie, it has been seen that HONOR Philippines awarded the most deserving among the Top 20 Finalists.

Ultimate Sparkle Campus Cutie with HONOR Philippines Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman

“Aside from bringing photos to life, HONOR 400 5G brings dreams to life too. We support up and coming talents across the country that’s why we also partnered up with Sparkle Campus Cutie to make dreams come true,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

20 finalists from different schools in the Philippines battled it out for the coveted title of Ultimate Sparkle Campus Cutie. For weeks, the finalists trained under the leading talent institution in the country, Sparkle GMA Artist Center.

In the end, it was between Andrei Fajardo and Mad Ramos, and after a tie-clinching decision, the latter was awarded Ultimate Sparkle Campus Cutie—bagging a contract under Sparkle GMA Artist Center, and Php 35,000 worth of HONOR devices. Jayson David was also awarded as the HONOR 400 5G AI Master.

About HONOR 400 5G:

Stylish and Functional Design

With its sleek design and user-friendly interface, the HONOR 400 is not only a technological marvel but also a stylish accessory. The device’s long-lasting battery life ensures users can capture their favorite moments without interruption, making it an essential tool for both casual and professional photographers.

A Community of Creativity

Users have already begun showcasing their creativity through stunning landscapes, dynamic action shots, and candid moments. Each photo highlights the HONOR 400’s ability to adapt to diverse lighting conditions and scenarios, underscoring its versatility as a photography powerhouse.

Building on its commitment to innovation, HONOR continues to push the boundaries of what smartphones can achieve. The HONOR 400 represents a significant leap forward in mobile technology, blending functionality with artistic expression to meet the evolving needs of its users.

Pricing and Availability

Available in stunning color options—Midnight Black, Tidal Blue and Desert Gold—the HONOR 400 5G is now available for pre-order across the Philippines for only Php 22,999 (24GB + 512GB)! Every pre-order from June 17 to 27, 2025 comes with FREE exclusive items worth ₱9,397, including a JBL Go 4 speaker, HONOR Choice Earbuds Clips, and a Jisulife Pro 1 (available only when you claim on June 28). Plus, pre-order customers get the chance to win a Rolex GMT Master II worth ₱600,000 or a Hermès Lindy Mini Bag worth ₱420,000!

Order now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_H400_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/Shop_H400_PR, and TikTok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTok_H400_PR.

To know more about HONOR 400 5G, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_H400_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph) and TikTok (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Unveiling the Colors of Life: Karina Herrera Orozco’s First Solo Exhibition

Tweet

Karina Herrera Orozco, a visionary artist focusing on Mandala art, is set to unveil the magic of mandala through her first solo exhibition, Colors of Life, taking place at the Gateway Gallery on June 28 - July 12, 2025.

The word "mandala" originated from India. It’s a Sanskrit word, meaning “circle”. The word also carries deeper spiritual and symbolic meanings, particularly in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, where it represents wholeness, unity, and the universe. It is widely used in English to present a geometric design or pattern.

For Karina, painting is more than an artistic pursuit – it is a meditative practice where its spiritual energy is felt by the viewers, inviting them to a portal to peace. The process of creating each art piece demands time but it allows the passionate artist the opportunity to free-handedly design unique patterns.

This surprisingly unique collection is expected to captivate art lovers as it features her brand of intricate mandala patterns which she hand-painted on wood. Using only acrylic paint, craft mirrors, rhinestones, brush, and her delicate dots, Karina brings to life a vibrant and multi-dimensional collection that pleases the eyes and touches the soul.

Karina’s Mandala art show will be an immersive experience, featuring the exquisite balance and creativity that defines her masterpieces. Admiring the fusion of color and symmetry, her audience will be engulfed with the feelings of harmony and mindfulness.

The “Colors of Life” exhibition opens to the public on June 29, serenely welcoming all art enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking healing through art.