Department of Home Affairs, Australia, awards global biometric collection service to VFS Global

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The Department of Home Affairs, Australia, has awarded the global biometric collection service across seven regions to VFS Global, the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions.

The agreement spanning Australian biometric collection centres (ABCC) at 165 locations worldwide include new geographies in addition to existing locations operated by VFS Global. Awarded regions comprise Americas, Mekong, Middle East and North Africa, North Asia, Pacific, South Asia and Southeast Asia. According to the agreement, VFS Global’s core services include Biometric Collection and Identity Verification, Digital Assistance with online visa applications submission and Online Payment Assistance on the Department’s ImmiAccount portal.

The company would also provide additional (as required services) such as remote interview hosting, document and claim checking, paper digitisation and local addressing and document delivery. The roll out would take place in two broad phases with 59 centres to be operational by January 1, 2024 and the rest under phase two in line with the department’s directives.

“Over many years the department and VFS Global have enjoyed a successful partnership, during which VFS Global have continued to demonstrate flexibility as the department’s needs have evolved over time. We look forward to the continued growth of this partnership and roll out of the biometrics collection program under the new agreement,” said Anthony Phillips, Director of In-Person Services and Support, Department of Home Affairs.

“This global award is another testament of our business excellence and trusted partnership with the Department of Home Affairs, Australia. We have been working with the department since 2004 and we will continue to elevate the experience of travellers across the world bound to Australia,” said Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer VFS Global.

The agreement also marks the maiden opening of Australian biometric collection centres (ABCC) by VFS Global in the Americas region. 

About VFS Global

VFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. VFS Global is the trusted partner of 70 client governments, operating a global network with more than 3,300 Application Centres in 147 countries. The company has processed over 268 million applications since its inception in 2001. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical assessment task. VFS Global has its headquarters in Zurich/Switzerland and Dubai/United Arab Emirates.

VFS Global is majority-owned by funds managed by Blackstone, the world’s largest alternative asset manager. Blackstone seeks to create positive economic impact and long-term value for their investors, the companies in which they invest, and the communities in which they work. Blackstone’s USD 991 billion in assets under management include investment vehicles focused on private equity, real estate, public debt and equity, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, opportunistic, non-investment grade credit, real assets, and secondary funds, all on a global basis.

The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, a global investment organisation, headquartered in Stockholm/Sweden, hold minority stakes in VFS Global.

 

Want an Effective Sensitive Skin Routine in just Two Steps?

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One of the main skin issues that Filipinos worry about is having sensitive skin. Living with it can be incredibly challenging to manage with the occasional skin irritation, flare ups, itching, dryness, burning, and redness. It can affect one’s quality of life as the effects of having sensitive skin can manifest physically, emotionally, and psychologically—which is why it is best to invest in a routine that is efficient, simple, and yet powerful enough to manage one’s sensitive skin.

Navigating through one’s sensitive skin journey can be a very daunting task. Most often, sensitive skin sufferers go through several trials and errors with the products they use, just to keep their sensitive skin at bay. And when it comes to these products it is important to consider its ingredients and whether it provides healing properties to the skin—like oats, for example.

Oat is one of nature’s most restorative ingredients. Not only does it bring moisture to the skin’s surface layers, but it also helps in soothing skin irritation thanks to its natural properties; providing skin solutions to keep your skin healthy and feel instant relief from irritants. Research shows that incorporating oats in skincare products greatly improves the health and appearance of one’s skin—and can even go as far as treating skin conditions such as dry, itchy, sensitive skin.

Dr. Clarisse Mendoza, a board-certified dermatologist, explained, “Having sensitive skin means that your skin is prone to allergies or irritation from various harmful things in the environment. The best way to prevent this from happening is by applying good kinds of moisturizers or lotions that will protect your skin all throughout the day. Oat-based moisturizers have the benefit of improving the skin barrier function and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve the itchiness of dry and itchy skin. This way, we can be rest assured that your skin is kept healthy and well hydrated.”

Today, skin sufferers do not need to worry! Introducing Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash and Lotion, Aveeno’s two-step solution that is powered with oats to effectively manage sensitive skin. Both formulated with Triple Oat Complex, Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash and Moisturizing Lotion will help you soothe dry, itchy, sensitive skin.

 

Sensitive skin sufferers can attest to the power and effectiveness of the two-step solution with content creator, eczema sufferer, and long-time Aveeno user, Enzo Villacorta, who shared, “Living with eczema has been my skin’s biggest challenge over the past few years. It came to a point when my skin was so sensitive and itchy, that it was even hard to go to sleep. After trying different brands of body care, Aveeno’s Skin Relief Body Wash and Body Lotion made the biggest impact. Using both on a daily basis makes me feel so at ease, because of how gentle and effective it is on my body. Genuinely, Aveeno’s two-step Skin Relief Regimen is an investment towards healthier skin.”

The two-step solution is known to be gentle on sensitive skin as it includes one of nature’s most restorative ingredients, oats. Included in the two-step regimen, the Triple Oat Complex is composed of Oat Oil that boosts ceramide production for stronger skin barrier, Oat Extract that contain avenanthramides with potent antioxidant, and Oat Flour that moisturizes skin.

Combining both the Skin Relief Body Wash and the Moisturizing Lotion to your sensitive skin routine poses many benefits, such as relief and comfort to one’s skin; and apart from your skin feeling extra moisturized and smooth upon using, the skin barrier is strengthened, protected, more nourished, and more soothed with the help of Aveeno’s Triple Oat Complex formula—therefore providing an easy, more efficient way to manage sensitive skin.

To start, use Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash, a fragrance-free body wash that replenishes moisture for softer, smoother, healthier-looking skin even after you rinse. Right after, lock in the moisture with Aveeno Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion. This product has a rich, creamy texture. The clinical benefits of Aveeno Oat in dry skin have been demonstrated through extensive research across diverse skin conditions and populations. This fragrance-free lotion is clinically proven to soothe itchy, dry, sensitive skin in as fast as 60 seconds.

Aveeno senior brand manager, Ira Santos, shared, “Using both Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash and Moisturizing Lotion is a powerful combination and solution to help manage sensitive skin. With Aveeno’s two-step solution, it not only cleanses, but also protects the skin. Complement your moisturizing routine with Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash that gently cleanses and moisturizes to help soothe itchy, dry sensitive skin, and finish off with Aveeno Skin Relief Lotion after every wash to nourish and restore essential moisture, so your skin feels softer and healthier. This two-step solution is a game changer when it comes to your sensitive skin routine!”

With Aveeno’s Two-Step Solution, experiencing ultimate skin relief will be easier to achieve. Get the Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash and the Skin Relief Moisturizing Lotion in Watsons and in their official company stores via Shopee and Lazada, or you can shop here: https://bit.ly/AveenoTwoStepRegimen.

For more information about Aveeno and their products, visit their website at https://www.aveeno.com.ph/ and follow them on Instagram and TikTok at @aveenoph!

 

Success of HONOR 90 5G continues, all set to unveil its successor HONOR 90 Lite 5G on September 26

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Just when you thought they’re done, HONOR Philippines shocked fans and tech enthusiasts alike after the announcement of the HONOR 90 Lite 5G launch on September 26. Catch the Facebook livestream event at 7:30PM via http://bit.ly/HONOR90Lite5G and win exciting prizes including a brand new HONOR 90 Lite 5G!

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Due to the overwhelming success of HONOR 90 5G in the Philippines, HONOR was forced to bring HONOR 90 Lite 5G, confirmed to launch on September 26! 

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“We are still overwhelmed with the huge success of our recently-launched HONOR 90 5G in the country and we are not stopping there! With that, we are introducing HONOR 90 Lite 5G in the country with equally impressive performance but at a more affordable pricepoint,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Flagship-level Storage

Bringing a smoother user experience, the HONOR 90 Lite 5G features an impressive 8GB RAM and 256GB super storage with 4500mAh battery to keep users online and connected throughout the day. In addition, the device runs the Android 13-based HONOR MagicOS 7.1 to offer smart features such as HONOR Share for speedy file transfers across devices, helping users to boost productivity, and Scan Document to automatically recognize and convert text content in photos.

Take Stunning Photos with 100MP Ultra Camera

The HONOR 90 Lite features a rear 100MP triple camera system, featuring a 100MP Main Camera to capture the smallest details in any complicated scene, a 5MP Wide & Depth Camera and 2MP Macro Camera for capturing majestic landscape shots and intimate closeups. The 16MP front camera also ensures users can take captivating selfies with defined and enhanced colors.

If this interests you, add it to your cart now via our online retail parnters – Lazada (https://bit.ly/H90Lite5GLaz), Shopee (https://bit.ly/H90Lite5GShopee), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/3ZleihW). Catch the much-anticipated launch live on Facebook this September 26 here: http://bit.ly/HONOR90Lite5G and stay tuned for more announcements via www.hihonor.com/ph 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/.

 

BERLIN launches on Netflix on December 29

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The spinoff for La casa de papel stars

 Pedro Alonso, Michelle Jenner, Tristán Ulloa, Begoña Vargas, 

Julio Peña Fernández and Joel Sánchez

Netflix will release BERLIN  on December 29th. The spinoff for La Casa de Papel follows one of the most extraordinary heists of the iconic character played by Pedro Alonso, who returns to the role of the hedonistic and clever Berlin. 

Alongside him, his new gang: Michelle Jenner (Isabel) plays Keila, an eminence in electronic engineering; Tristán Ulloa (Fariña) goes into the skin of Damián, a philanthropic professor and Berlin’s confidant; Begoña Vargas (Welcome to Eden) plays Cameron, a kamikaze who always lives on the edge; Julio Peña Fernández (Through My Window) brings to life Roi, Berlin’s faithful squire; and Joel Sánchez plays Bruce, the relentless man of action in the gang. Itziar Ituño (La Casa de Papel) and Najwa Nimri (La Casa de Papel) come back to their roles as policewomen Raquel Murillo and Alicia Sierra, respectively. 

 

Samantha Siqueiros (Lady of Steel), Julien Paschal (One Year, One Night), Masi Rodríguez and Rachel Lascar (Through My Window) complete the cast for BERLIN. 

The eight episodes of the series, created by Álex Pina (La casa de papel, Sky Rojo) and Esther Martínez Lobato (La Casa de Papel), Sky Rojo), are written by Álex Pina, Esther Martínez Lobato, David Barrocal, David Oliva and Lorena G. Maldonado. Will be directed by Albert Pintó (Sky Rojo, Malasaña 32), David Barrocal (Sky Rojo) and Geoffrey Cowper (Day Release).

About BERLIN

There are only two things that are sure to turn a bad day into a great one: love, and a payday worth millions. They're what keep Berlin going through his golden years, a time when he still has no inkling of his illness and hasn’t gotten trapped like a rat in the Spanish Mint. This is where he starts preparing one of his most extraordinary heists: making jewels worth 44 million disappear like some sort of magic trick. To do it, he’ll enlist the help of one of the three gangs he’s ever stolen with.

About Vancouver Media

Vancouver Media is a television production company founded in late 2016 by Álex Pina, which aims to create shows that stand out from the rest. Since its launch, it has developed Money Heist, The Pier, and White Lines, with Sky Rojo its newest addition. 

About Netflix:

Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services with over 238 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

Education campaign My Dream in a Shoebox answers call for future-ready classrooms

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In the Basic Education Report (BER), the Department of Education (DepEd) pointed out the difficulties it faces in providing basic education to Filipino students, which includes school facilities and learning resources.

These issues were also echoed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his recent State of the Nation Address where his solution to the age-old problem is that “schools and facilities are being retrofitted to become ready for the future—ready for hybrid and high-tech learning, and also climate-ready and disaster-proof.”

With a commitment to bridge the digital gap in education, My Dream in a Shoebox (MDIAS), the annual education campaign led by strategic marketing agency TeamAsia, together with Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation (YBH), is taking action to contribute to the realization of future-ready classrooms. Through the establishment of educational hubs or e-hubs in some of the Philippines’ remotest areas, an initiative by YBH, kids will get access to equipment and supplies they need for face-to-face learning: six computers, a year’s worth of internet service, a printer and printing materials, school supplies, face masks, alcohol, and a budget for logistical costs.

Bea Lim, managing director of TeamAsia and chief dream builder of MDIAS, expressed her dedication to this cause, “As we move forward into an era marked by technological advancements, it’s imperative that we equip our students with the means to succeed. Our e-hub donations represent our commitment to creating future-ready classrooms that foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. By providing these resources, we are empowering students to dream big and achieve even bigger.”

According to Dr. Anton Mari Lim, YBH’s co-founder, “We are proud to work alongside My Dream in a Shoebox to empower children and transform their #BiggerDreams into a bigger and brighter reality. These e-hubs are not just technological tools, but bridges to opportunities, empowerment, and a brighter future.” Thus, YBH is committed to building more opportunities or avenues for the children. 

Aside from e-hubs, MDIAS also aims to raise P250,000 from donations in order to help 10 scholars in each of its 10 partner communities across the Philippines. Donations will be used to cover the costs of the children’s school supplies and hygiene kits with face masks and alcohol.

If you’re interested to take part in this year’s MDIAS campaign, follow these steps to donate:

1. Visit the My Dream in a Shoebox website at https://shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com/

2. Click the ‘Donate Now’ button.

3. Choose which of the causes you would like to donate to: Donate a Dream Kit, Support a Scholar, or Fund an e-hub. You can also donate to all!

4. If you wish to donate a dream kit, the amount is P300. To fund an e-hub, you can input the amount you would like to donate and click “Make a Donation.” But if you want to support a scholar or a community, you may choose to donate PHP2,500 or PHP25,000, respectively.

5. Review your cart and hit ‘Proceed to Checkout.’

6. Fill up the billing form, choose your mode of payment, click ‘Place Order.’

“We can all do our own part—filling up a shoe box with supplies and sending it over, donating money to support a scholar, or even the simple act of sharing posts to our networks and friends to encourage them to donate or volunteer,” said Bea Lim. “As someone told me before, which has now become our thrust and belief, ‘Hangga’t may bata na nangangarap at nangangailangan, nandoon ang My Dream in a Shoebox.’”

Make a donation now and see how small efforts can make a big impact on the youth and the community. To know more about the campaign, visit the website shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com or contact the organizers at shoebox@teamasia.com.