New UK Visa Application Centre launched in Manila

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●       UK visa customers can visit the new and upgraded centre from Monday to Friday, between 7AM to 4PM to apply for all categories of UK visas.

●       Customers get a range of optional services to choose from including Premium Lounge, Prime Time Appointments, Keep My Passport, and SMS Alerts among others.

●       Customers can also apply for their UK visa from a location of their choice through our optional On Demand Mobile Visa (ODMV) service.

To offer an enhanced visa application submission experience to UK visa customers in Manila, Philippines, Mr. Alistair White, British Deputy Ambassador to the Philippines, inaugurated the new and upgraded UK Visa Application Centre in Manila on 08 March 2024, in the presence of Mr. Julian Salisbury, Assurance and Integrity Manager for Asia Pacific, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and Mr. Kaushik Ghosh, Head-Australasia, VFS Global.

The new UK Visa Application Centre in Manila located on the 6th Floor of the Makati Circuit Corporate Tower Two will offer customers a more comfortable and relaxed visa application submission experience. This spacious facility, equipped with modern amenities and services, will have the capacity to process a higher volume of visa applications per day, and enhance the customer experience by making the customer journey even more smooth and seamless.

Mr. Alistair White, British Deputy Ambassador to the Philippines, said, "This new and improved visa application centre (VAC) located at the city center is easily accessible by public transportation, providing our customers with added convenience to ensure they have a smooth start to their journey to the UK, whether that’s to visit, work or study at one of our world-leading institutions. In 2023, UKVI issued around 77,500 visas to Philippine nationals. This was a 24% increase from the numbers we saw issued in 2022. As always, we’re excited to welcome more travellers this year, as the UK stands as a key travel destination for many in the Philippines.”

Spread across 3,300 square feet, this centre offers 10 submission counters with a capacity to process over 300 applications per day. The new center also provides a newly designed state-of-the-art Premium Lounge as one of the optional services for UK visa customers.

Mr. Kaushik Ghosh, Head - Australasia, VFS Global, said, "VFS Global has shared a long-standing relationship of trust with the UK Government since 2003, and this new Visa Application Centre is a reflection of the strong partnership we share. This centre in Manila will play a crucial role in effectively catering to the growing demand for travel to the UK. We are confident that this new Visa Application Centre will enhance customer experience by making the visa application process even more smooth and seamless, thereby helping us better serve travellers to the UK better.”

The visa application centre also offers a host of optional services that include the Premium Lounge service for end-to-end personalised assistance throughout the application process, Prime Time Appointments to allow submission of visa applications beyond regular working hours, and the Keep My Passport service to allow applicants to retain their passports while their applications are being assessed, and only submit them once a visa decision has been reached. Similarly, Courier Return service facilitates delivery of the processed documents to the registered address, while SMS Notifications can help in giving updates at each step of the application journey.

Additionally, UK visa customers can apply for their visa from any preferred location – home or office -- by opting for our On Demand Mobile Visa (ODMV) service.

VFS Global operates UK Visa Application Centres across two cities in Philippines – Cebu and Manila. This new Visa Application Centre in Manila will cater to UK visa applicants including study, travel, business, and others.

VFS Global, which has been a trusted partner for the UK Government since 2003, won the global contract for overseas UK visa and Citizenship services last year. As part of the contract, during 2024, VFS Global will deploy 240 Visa and Citizenship Application Service (VCAS) Centres for the UK in 142 countries across Africa & Middle East, Americas, Australasia & Europe, China & Taiwan, and Asia & Asia Pacific regions. These centres will accept all categories of visa applications as well as UK passport applications in some locations. Combined, these new centres are estimated to process 3.8 million applicants every year.

For more information, please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/phl/en/gbr/.

About VFS Global

As the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist, VFS Global embraces technological innovation including Generative AI to support governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, increasing productivity and enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.

With a responsible approach to technology development, adoption and integration, the company prioritizes ethical practices and sustainability while serving as the trusted partner to 67 client governments.  Operating over 3,300 Application Centres in 150 countries, VFS Global has efficiently processed more than 280 million applications since 2001.

Headquartered in Zurich and Dubai and backed by majority shareholder Blackstone, along with the Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, VFS Global is committed to creating value for all stakeholders and leading in responsible, innovative solutions making government services more effective and efficient.

DTI PTTC-GMEA awards top graduates of the inaugural Obra Design Masterclass for Furniture Industry

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The Department of Trade and Industry’s Philippine Trade Training Center – Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA) has recognized the top designers among the 52 graduates of the very first Obra Design Masterclass, a design and product development mentorship initiative to uplift local talent within the furniture and creative industries.

Participants of the Obra Design Masterclass unveiled their exceptional furniture, lighting, and decor designs at the prestigious 32nd Philippine International Furniture Show (PIFS) held from March 7 to 9, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

The Obra Design Masterclass honorees are:

Best Furniture Design: Apollo Coffee Table by Reimer Neil Bonghanoy (Cebu)

1st Runner-up: Heron Parasol by Luzel Andrea Alconera (Cebu)

2nd Runner-up: MORF (Modular ORganizer Furniture Set) by Dean Gabriel Lusung (NCR)

3rd Runner-up: Obrang Baybayin by Chester Gazzingan (NCR)

4th Runner-up: Hiraya Bar by Basil Rico Gahi (Cebu)

 

Best Decor Design: Pangolin Sauce Bowl by Jay Chadly Pulan (Cebu)

1st Runner-up: Orbito Tray by Reimer Neil Bonghanoy (Cebu)

2nd Runner-up: Kyrie Screen Divider by David Paras (Cebu)

 

Best Lighting Design: Zephyrus by Matthew David (Pampanga)

1st Runner-up: Socorro by Josh Matthew Flores (Cebu)

2nd Runner-up: Orbital Corners by Maria Catherina Agregado (Pampanga)

The three-month Obra Design Masterclass program was simultaneously conducted in Manila, Pampanga, and Cebu. The program aimed at addressing key industry challenges, such as the emigration of skilled professionals, market competitiveness, and the rising costs of materials, through empowering local talent, by seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies, sustainable materials, and innovative creative processes.

“The Obra Design Masterclass enriches the Philippine furniture industry by upskilling designers and crafters capable of making a significant impact on the global stage. Scholars with design backgrounds, architects, and industrial designers, among others, were guided by seasoned mentors on key concepts such as mindset development, design thinking, material selection, and assembly techniques, which were valuable in producing prototypes worth selling to the international market," PTTC-GMEA Executive Director Nelly Nita Dillera stated.

Under the guidance of renowned figures from the furniture design industry, including Ronald Rommel Viloria, Josef Crisanto, Eric Paras, Stanley Ruiz, Rey Soliven, Dem Bitantes, Vito Selma, Estela Ocampo-Fernandez, and Christine Manguerra, and key industry partners such as the Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines (CFIP), Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation, Inc. (CFIF), and Pampanga Furniture Industries Foundation, Inc. (PFIF), graduates mastered not only design and craftsmanship but also vital business and communication skills necessary for transforming their creative concepts into tangible pieces.

The designs will be showcased at Obra Pop-Up: A PTTC-GMEA Showcase of Obra Scholars & Prototype in the PTTC-GMEA lobby area in Pasay City from March 11 to 12, 2024, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Furniture designers, enthusiasts, and students can visit for free to check out the scholars’ brilliant designs of furniture, lighting, and accessories.

The Philippine International Furniture Show was organized by Next One Now in collaboration with CFIP, CFIF, PFIF, and Global-Link MP Events International Inc. It ran alongside Interior & Design Manila, organized by Global-Link MP Events International Inc., with the support of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers, Philippine Institute of Architects, and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc., highlighting the synergy within the Philippine design community.

 

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ABOUT DTI PTTC-GMEA

The Philippine Trade Training Center – Global MSME Academy (PTTC-GMEA) is a government agency under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) that provides training and capacity-building programs to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines. PTTC-GMEA aims to enhance the competitiveness and productivity of MSMEs through skills development, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities.

For more information, visit www.pttc.gov.ph.

 

We Are Women: Shop & get up to 60% off this Women’s Month at Robinsons Department Store

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Treat the women in your life to stylish fashion pieces and eye-catching beauty products at great deals

Women are strong, intelligent, and they deserve to be celebrated for all that they do. With the theme “inspire inclusion,” this year’s International Women’s Month aims to inspire people to value women’s contributions. Robinsons Department Store is joining the celebration with its “We Are Women” campaign.

From March 1 to April 15, 2024, you can treat yourself and all the special women in your life with clothes and accessories from brands like Lee and JAG; beauty and skincare from Maybelline, L’Oreal, Y.O.U Cosmetics, Bobbie Cosmetics, CosRX, and more; and other exciting products up to 60% off across all Robinsons Department Store branches nationwide. This is also available via its e-commerce channels on LazMall and Shopee Mall.

Customers can also get a free Jelly Pouch (available in three colors) for a minimum purchase of P2,500 on ladies’ items.

Robinsons Department Store has more promos in store. On International Women’s Day on March 8, GoRewards members can get P300 off on their total shopping for a minimum purchase of P3,000. Snag more great deals at the one-week We Are Women Fair from March 9 to 15 at Robinsons Place Manila Midtown Atrium Activity Center. Get a chance to participate in fun activities, get freebies, and win prizes when you shop.

Robinsons Department Store is also offering flexible payment options with its “Shop Now, Pay Later” plan. Enjoy 0% interest when you shop using any major credit cards, with three-month installment for P3,000 single-receipt purchases and six-month installment for P5,000 single-receipt purchases.

This Women’s Month, browse Robinsons Department Store’s diverse offerings to empower the women around you with fashion and beauty finds that make them feel confident. Don’t miss out on these exciting deals from March 1 to April 15.

Visit your nearest Robinsons Department Store, or shop via LazMall and Shopee Mall.

HONOR X7b with Massive 6000mAh Battery is now available nationwide for only Php 8,999

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Global technology brand HONOR today announced the launch of the HONOR X7b for only Php 8,999! 

Featuring a long-lasting 6,000mAh battery, a 108MP Superior Main Camera, 256GB storage, and an Ultra-Bright Display, the HONOR X7b provides extended battery life and impressive hardware that caters to a variety of needs throughout the day. With its well-rounded features and affordability, the new HONOR X Series smartphone offers users an exceptional, uninterrupted user experience.

 

Long-lasting Battery to Support All-day Use

 

Equipped with a 6,000mAh ultra-large battery, the HONOR X7b now holds the DXOMARK Battery Gold Label, which promises a battery usage of 3 days on a single charge. It delivers the best battery life among all HONOR X Series smartphones to date. On a single charge, the latest HONOR X7b can support up to 18 hours of video streaming, 24 hours of social media browsing or 69 hours (about 3 days) of music streaming, making it a reliable companion for users who are on the go. 

 

The cell of the HONOR X7b comes with a higher energy density and a reduced thickness thanks to HONOR’s innovative battery technologies, which immensely contribute to the device’s long battery life and slim form factor, enabling users to stay connected without constant recharging. Additionally, the battery exhibits exceptional longevity, with the ability to maintain over 80% of its health even after three years of usage. 

 

Superior Photography Capabilities for Crystal-sharp Visuals  

The HONOR X7b boasts a 108MP Main Camera with a 1/1.67-inch sensor. Boosting light intake massively, the HONOR X7b supports 9-in-1 pixel binning to achieve a pixel size measuring 1.92µm, enabling the camera to capture bright and vivid shots even in challenging low-light conditions, ensuring that night colors are faithfully reproduced in the images. The HONOR X7b also features the Portrait Mode that supports 2X zoom, providing a diverse range of use that allows users to capture a wide variety of moments with versatility and flexibility.

 

Immersive Audiovisual Experience with Hyper-Transmissive Display

Featuring a 6.8-inch HONOR FullView Display with a 91.3% screen-to-body ratio, the HONOR X7b supports an FHD+ resolution and a color depth of 16.7 million colors, delivering visuals with stunning clarity and vibrant hues. Delivering the brand’s commitment to human centric technology, the HONOR X7b comes with industry-leading eye comfort features including Circadian Night Display and Dynamic Dimming. Received the certification from TÜV Rheinland for its low blue light emissions, the HONOR X7b is suitable for extended usage without causing eye strain, perfect for today’s digital-savvy generation who spend long hours viewing content on their smartphones.  

 

Furthermore, the HONOR X7b incorporates advanced audio capabilities, thanks to the sound field expansion algorithm and scene-based audio optimization, ensuring an immersive audio experience. Whether users are indulging in entertainment or focusing on work-related tasks, the HONOR X7b is well-equipped to meet the demands of various real-life scenarios, providing users with an enjoyable and captivating experience across different activities.

 

Uninterrupted Access and Ample Storage Capacity  

Users who enjoy keeping their media always accessible at their fingertips can fully leverage the expansive 256GB storage drive, which can keep over 60,000 pictures, 24,000 songs or 950 HD videos locally. The HONOR X7b is also equipped with the HONOR RAM Turbo (8GB+8GB), an HONOR proprietary technology that moves a portion of flash memory to RAM, meaning 8GB RAM can be increased to 16GB, enabling users to carry on with their tasks seamlessly with ease.

Pricing and Availability

HONOR X7b is available starting March 9 for only Php 8,999! And until supplies last, you will get a FREE HONOR Gift Box worth Php 1,999 when you purchase from March 9 to 17, 2024! Head on now to your nearest HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or shop online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X7b_PR), Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X7b_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X7b_PR)!

 

To know the complete specs of HONOR X7b, head on to HONOR’s website: https://bit.ly/Web_X7b_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR's social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

 

Century Park Hotel supports women empowerment

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We always hear of women empowerment but what exactly does this oft-used phrase entail? Women empowerment is believing that women can be catalysts of change, it is recognizing their strengths and qualities. Women need to be supported not just inside their homes but also in their chosen professions and advocacies.

Century Park Hotel (CPH) is known for supporting women, where else can you find a company that champions women in supervisory and management roles? Even among the back of the house and frontliners, you will see women ensuring that the hotel’s daily operations are running smoothly like a well-oiled machine.

This March, in celebration of International Women’s month, CPH wants to emphasize that endeavor through their “Women’s Day Special!”

Every Monday of March, women of all ages can avail of a 25% discount at Café In The Park (starting price at P1,800net/head) and Century Tsukiji (from 1,499/pax) buffet for lunch or dinner.

Café in the Park offers an international cuisine that varies from day to day, this is one exciting gustatory adventure that should not be missed by the ladies. Café In The Park’s buffets are available from 11:00AM to 2:30PM (Lunch) and 6:00PM to 10:00PM (Dinner).

If you are in the mood for Japanese cuisine, head off to Century Tsukiji and experience for yourself what everyone has been talking about regarding the hotel’s Japanese food outlet. Sumptuous beef slices, juicy sashimi, yummy sukiyaki, succulent tempura and other delicacies are waiting for all the women in the family as well as in the workplace. Century Tsukiji’s buffets can be availed from 11:00AM to 2:00PM (Lunch) and 5:00PM to 9:30PM (Dinner).

For those ladies seeking to have a chill out session, the Atrium Lounge offers a 25% off on its ala carte menu from 9:00AM to 12:00MN. The lounge is famous for its cozy vibe, sultry music and delectable snacks.

“Women have always played an important part in Century Park Hotel’s history. Time and again, when the hotel has faced challenges such as the pandemic, the women employees have been pivotal in turning things around, whether in making major decisions or implementing milestone projects. As we observe and celebrate International Women’s Month, this “Women’s Day Special!” is our tribute to all the women who make our lives complete and special,” said Ana Dimagiba, Century Park Hotel’s OIC for Hotel Operations.

To know more about the hotel’s “Women’s Day Special!” offers, visit ww.centurypark.com.ph or check out their social media accounts at IG: @centuryparkhotelmanila or FB: Century Park Hotel Manila. You may also call +632 85288888 or +63 917 528 58888.