Eating out is no longer a fear because there’s JolliSavers!

New ad in the JolliSavers horror parody series continues to dispel the fears of dining outside!

The thought of eating out gets scarier by the day. Prices keep rising and won’t seem to stop, and that sweldo just won’t catch up to it. What should an ordinary Filipino do?

You know those moments when you plan your budget for your lunch meal, but then someone else turns it into an utter nightmare with the four scariest words: ”kain tayo sa labas”? Jollibee knows the feeling all too well, and that’s why they’re here to the rescue with JolliSavers!

Jollibee continues its hilarious JolliSavers commercial series featuring legendary comedy queen Eugene Domingo as the boss of a team who’s absolutely scared to eat out. This time around, there’s a special visitor in the office today, but the team senses there’s something not right with her when she whispers to them about dining outside!

   

Thankfully, even the mysterious visitor knows there’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to eating out, thanks to the absolutely delicious and budget friendly JolliSavers meals you can get for only P50.00 or less!

“We want to remove our customers’ perception of fear of eating outside due to rising prices,” said Joseph Aruta, Senior Marketing Manager for Jollibee Value Platforms Category. “With JolliSavers, we assure them that they can still experience and enjoy the tasty and scrumptious Jollibee meals they know and love without breaking the budget.” 

JolliSavers gives you the courage to brave mealtimes outside with the Beefy Langhap-Sarap Yumburger for only PHP 35.00*, the Meatiest, Cheesiest Sweet-sarap Jolly Spaghetti for PHP 50.00*, and the beefy-saucy Linamnam Ulam Burger Steak for only P50.00*. 

JolliSavers is available for dine-in, take-out, delivery, and drive-thru transactions in all Jollibee stores nationwide.

For more details and updates on Jollibee products including JolliSavers, like Jollibee Philippines on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Studios on YouTube, and follow @Jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

*Prices may vary

Tourism Promotions Board launches Sustainable Community-Based Tourism Recognition

The Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), launched recently the first Sustainable Community-Based Tourism Recognition (SCBTR) as part of its "Sustainable Tourism" campaign.  

In keeping with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, and the National Tourism Act of 2009, which recognizes sustainable tourism development as key to national socioeconomic development, the SCBTR highlights different forms of tourism such as ecotourism, which focusing on areas that promote environmental conservation and appreciation of nature; culture tourism, which promotes heritage and encourages participation in cultural activities; and adventure tourism, which offers a full adventure travel experience.

TPB will identify the best sustainable tourism destinations of the country with the assistance of DOT Regional Offices and recognize three winners according to a set of criteria that includes community participation, benefit sharing, tourism resources conservation, partnership and support from within and outside the community, local ownership, management and leadership, communication and interaction among stakeholders, quality of life, scale of tourism development and tourist satisfaction.

The recognized sites must also practice sustainability through preservation, conservation and protection of the environment and community; provide a unique local experience; practice ecological balance and sustainable organic farming; promote artisanal products in the community; empower cultural pride; share cultural heritage; offer immersive and experiential activities; and elicit overall interest from visitors.

Winners will receive incentives and grants for the enhancement of sites and tourism products and services; trainings and seminars; and progress monitoring and assistance from TPB to obtain support from organizations such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Slow Food International and The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) for the development of community programs. 

The destination will also be promoted digitally, featured in international and domestic travel fairs and shows participated in by DOT / TPB, and endorsed for a possible partnership with the former Secretary of the Philippines' Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Ms. Gina Lopez.

This first-of-its-kind recognition is initiated by TPB in support of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat's overarching direction in striking balance between tourism business and social responsibility.

Aside from acknowledging sustainability efforts and achievements, TPB also hopes to reaffirm the commitment of local government units, non-governmental organizations, and private sectors in the tourism industry in implementing sustainable tourism related-initiatives.

Moreover, TPB hopes to showcase and promote domestically and internationally the country’s unique tourism products, inspire stakeholders to share sustainable practices, and draw potential investors for the enhancement and development of sustainable tourism sites and attractions. 

Maxicare brings world-class healthcare to Cebuanos

The new Maxicare HealthHub in Robinsons Galleria Cebu offers members a convenient and time-saving way of getting their LOA (letter of authorization), and has fully digitized system to manage patient queuing and gather initial vital signs quickly and accurately

Maxicare Healthcare Corporation, the country’s leading healthcare provider, has recently opened its new Primary Care Center (PCC) and second HealthHub in Cebu that offers world-class services to Cebuano members.

Maxicare president and chief executive officer Christian Argos, with chairman of Equicom Group Antonio Go and other executives, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony that officially opened the new facilities. “We are excited to serve our members here in the Visayas region, as we promote and incorporate new innovative technology with medical services. Through the PCC and HealthHub, we will attend to our members’ needs in the most convenient and fastest manner possible,” said Argos.

Patient queuing corner in Maxicare HealthHub

The new Maxicare HealthHub in Cebu is a one-stop Maxicare facility that uses cutting-edge technology to streamline medical consultation. It has new self-service features using an HMO-owned (health maintenance organization) healthcare system that gives members a relaxing and convenient way to access their benefits.

A first-of-its-kind in the country, the automated health pod lets members get their LOA (letter of authorization) quickly and easily. It has a fully digitized system to shorten patient queue and make initial tests for vital signs quick, accurate, and hassle-free.   

At the new PCC, Cebuanos can get the most efficient healthcare experience. The staff consists of Customer Service Associates and Primary Care Physicians who specialize in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Obstetrics-Gynecology, OB Sonography, ENT (ear, nose, throat), Dermatology, Ophthalmology and Psychiatry. 

The Maxicare PCC in Cebu aims to give outstanding services with its state-of-the-art medical facility and highly qualified physicians. Services include consultation, laboratory test, X-ray, ECG (electro-cardiogram) and Ultrasound.

The newest Maxicare Primary Care Center is at Lot 5, Block 6, Mindanao Avenue corner Siquijor Road, Cebu Business Park while the Maxicare HealthHub is at the Ground Floor, Robinsons Galleria Cebu, General Maxilom Avenue corner Sergio Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City.

Maxicare Healthcare Corporation: One of the pioneers in the health maintenance organization (HMO) industry was established in 1987 by an esteemed group of doctors and businessmen with the vision to deliver a better healthcare system. Three decades later, Maxicare has progressed into becoming the No. 1 HMO* in the country, continuously providing comprehensive healthcare programs via its wide network of medical providers and strengthened customer support. Maxicare has more than 1.2 Million Members, more than 56,000 affiliated Doctors, more than 1,000 affiliated Hospitals and Clinics, 3,800 Dental providers, 8 Primary Care Centers and 13 Helpdesks, 9 Satellite Offices, 5 Exclusive Wings.

Toshiba pays homage to exceptional moms this Mother’s Day

Margarita Fores and Christine Jacob-Sandejas

This Mother’s Day, Toshiba appliances pay homage to two extraordinary moms, both an inspiration to many, who graced the launch of Toshiba’s latest line of state-of-the-art home appliances: Margarita Fores and Christine Jacob Sandejas. Fores, mother to son Amado, was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016 and is the moving force behind Cibo, a modern Italian caffé concept, and Cibo di Marghi Signature Caterer, her highly-successful catering arm. Meanwhile, Jacob, mother to five kids, is a former athlete and is co-anchor of the popular show New Day on CNN Philippines.

These outstanding moms prove that even with kids to raise, it is possible to wear many hats while giving their all in everything that they do. And with home appliances like Toshiba, each one imbued with the distinctive “takumi” spirit, life is made easier for busy moms with the ease and convenience they bring. Toshiba’s line of home appliances include the signature Washers and Dryers, Refrigerators, and top-loading water dispensers.

Enjoy Turks Doners this Mother’s Day like John Lloyd Cruz

Mother's Day is just a few days away, but there is no need to worry because you can show your love and affection to your mom even with a minimal budget. Bring her to the nearest Turks branch and enjoy together its latest offerings.

After the very successful launch of the video commercial of John Lloyd Cruz recently for the No. 1 shawarma in the Philippines, Turks, everyone now can join John Lloyd Cruz in enjoying Turks Small Doner and Rice Doner Bowl.

Grab the latest offering of Turks – Rice Doner Bowl. For only P50 satisfy your hunger and palate with Turks signature sauces that makes your Rice Doner Bowl mouthwatering and scrumptious. 

Choose from chicken or beef for your rice topping and complete this delicious rice meal with your choice of sweet or spicy sauces. 

Meanwhile, the Small Pita Doner, which we all love, is making a comeback to fill your stomach despite its size because it’s full of Turks signature flavor. For P35, Small Pita Doner can satisfy your cravings for Turks shawarma.

Visit the nearest Turks branches in your area. For more information visit www.turks.ph or follow and like our social media pages: IG: turks.official FB: Turks.official. 

The best gift for family

The importance of family togetherness as told by the Muhlach family in newest Jollibee Chickenjoy commercial

Sharing a meal with the people you love the most is an incomparable feeling—especially for the Muhlach family.

In their latest Jollibee commercial, the celebrity family once again reveals a side that many Filipino families can relate to. We see Aga, Charlene, and their twins Andres and Atasha sharing a bucket of their favorite Chickenjoy while talking about their day and what truly matters for them: the love of family.

Watch VIDEO HERE.

This newest commercial strengthens the brand’s message of family togetherness, with quality bonding time made even more special with the crispylicious, juicylicious, walang kasing sarap Chickenjoy. 

Jumping off from previous ads highlighting Aga and Charlene’s sentiments as loving parents, this commercial captures a heartfelt moment in the Muhlachs’ dinner meal, each member sharing why it’s best when they’re all together as a family.

“They make me feel like everything will be okay,” says Andres in the commercial. His twin sister Atasha agrees: “In our family, we support each other.”

"We are all familiar with the deep love and care that Filipino parents feel for their children,” said Cathleen Capati, Jollibee AVP and Marketing Head for Flagship Category. “Having the children appreciate and live out the lessons their parents imparted on them, like Andres and Atasha do, is such a refreshing and equally heartfelt take to this much-beloved series of commercials.”

The best gift for family

For Charlene, the best gift for her family is not necessarily expensive—or even material. 

“The best gift that we, as parents, really give our children is quality time,” shared the actress-host. “Like in each milestone in their lives, we make sure to be there all the time! 

Even as teenagers with their own busy lives, Andres and Atasha still love hanging out with their parents; the result of their relatively “normal”, tight-knit upbringing. 

"Whenever we spend time together, there’s never a dull moment. We always enjoy each other’s company, even if it’s just being in the same room for hours just talking,” Atasha shared. Their favorite family moments are usually derived from simple conversations enjoyed over delicious food, especially the best-tasting Chickenjoy.

A true-blue Jollibee family

Aga has been part of the Jollibee family, with endorsements and advocacy projects for the country’s number one fast-food brand since 1991. Having his wife and children join him for family-centered commercials brought special joy to the actor.

“The time we spent together in the shoot was precious also. Being together the whole day doesn’t feel like working,” Aga said. “But it’s also nice because at least the kids get to see what we have been doing, and now they’re part of it,” agreed Charlene.

"For me honestly, this opportunity is special because not everyone can say they can experience this moment. Not everyone can say that they have done a commercial with their whole family! And it’s enjoyable because we’re all together, just bonding in every way,” added Andres.

“What makes the Chickenjoy commercials with the Muhlach family work is that they truly embody the value of togetherness that we want to support and promote,” said Capati. “If you see them working together, joking around and having fun, you’ll see that the warmth and closeness they exude on-cam is genuine—and the love that they have for Chickenjoy is genuine, too!”

Like the Muhlachs, give the best to your family and make bonding moments more special with the best-tasting Chickenjoy. Indulge in the crispylicious, juicylicious goodness while basking in the love of family.

Prices start at PHP 75.00*

For more information on Jollibee’s products and promotions, like Jollibee Philippines on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Studios on YouTube, and follow @Jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

*Prices may vary across locations.

Mang Inasal successfully holds National Halo-Halo Sarap Day with Angel Locsin and Empoy

Mang Inasal successfully holds National Halo-Halo Sarap Day (NHHSD) with surprise store visits by celebrity endorsers Angel and Empoy.

Mang Inasal, the leading Pinoy fast-food restaurant that serves the 2-in-1 sa Laki, Nuot sa Ihaw Sarap Chicken Inasal, successfully celebrated the third National Halo-Halo Sarap Day (NHHSD) with its customers who got to enjoy the creamiest Pinoy halo-halo at P20 off in all Mang Inasal stores nationwide.

Delighting customers with their surprise store visits were the “General’s Daughter” star Angel Locsin who went to the Mang Inasal Circuit Makati store and comedian Empoy Marquez who went to SM Fairview and SM Novaliches stores during the NHHSD.

Starring in the latest Mang Inasal Pinoy Halo-Halo TV commercial aired on the same day as the NHHSD, Angel told customers at the Circuit store that she is really a member of “Samahang  Simot,” or those diners who really finish their halo-halo up to the last drop.

“Narito po kami ngayon ng Mang Inasal para magpasalamat sa inyong walang sawang pagsuporta sa Pinoy Halo-Halo. Alam naman po ninyo na talagang paborito ko ang Pinoy Halo- Halo dahil ito ang da best sa creaminess. Espesyal ang gatas nito dahil ito ay ginawa lang para sa Mang Inasal (We are here today to thank you for your endless support for Pinoy Halo-Halo. You know that it is really my favorite because it is the creamiest. It is made from special milk made exclusively for Mang Inasal),” she said.

One of the customers who came to celebrate was a balikbayan from Malaysia, Susan Casteral, who came with her son. She always eats at Mang Inasal every time she goes back to the Phlippines. She said that she loves eating the Mang Inasal Pinoy Halo-Halo because it has the right amount of sweetness and the creaminess that stands out.

Josephine Quiatchon, who came with her friend, is a senior citizen who loves Mang Inasal Pinoy Halo-Halo. She finds it really delicious because it has the creamiest milk and generous serving  of ingredients.

“Kahit senior na at sipunin na, tuwing summer kumakain talaga ako lagi ng halo-halo (Even if I'm already a senior citizen and would always have colds, I still make it a point to eat halo-halo during summer),” she jovially shared. 

Katrina Nagidao, who came with her daughter, even won a prize in one of the NHHSD raffle draws at the Mang Inasal-SM Novaliches store. She said that she and her daughter always eat at Mang Inasal since her daughter loves its Chicken Inasal, while she craves for its creamiest Pinoy Halo-Halo.

Mang Inasal Brand Manager Schubert Quilinquin said that the National Halo-Halo Sarap Day was celebrated in over 500 stores nationwide as Mang Inasal’s way of showing its appreciation  to its customers who contributed to making its Pinoy Halo-Halo a well-loved dessert or merienda (snack). 

“We thank everyone who joined us in celebrating the National Halo-Halo Sarap Day this year. We hope to celebrate with all of you again next year, as we prepare more surprises for you at our stores,” he said.

Emirates Skywards invites members to fly more and earn 4 times the miles

• Skywards members can earn up to 4X Miles on Emirates and flydubai through special offer in March
• Members can also stand to win a million miles by donating to the Emirates Airline Foundation

Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty program of Emirates and flydubai, is rolling out a new limited time offer for all new and existing Skywards members to boost their Miles.

The offer is valid for Economy and Business class tickets booked on Emirates and flydubai between March 20, 2019 and March 31, 2019, for travel between April 10, 2019 and June 27, 2019, and between September 6, 2019 and November 30, 2019.

Under the offer, members will earn 100% bonus Skywards Miles on top of their regular Miles for their first ticket during the eligible travel period. If flying more than once with Emirates or flydubai during the offer period, members will earn 200% bonus Skywards Miles for their second ticket and 300% bonus Skywards Miles for their third ticket. 

The Skywards Miles earned through the offer can be redeemed for flights and upgrades on Emirates or flydubai. For example, a Skywards member flying three round trips from Dubai to London during the offer period on Economy Flex Plus fares, will be able to gather sufficient miles through this offer to access a return flight Saver reward on Economy class between Dubai and London. 

Members will need to register online to be eligible for the offer and will have to choose Saver, Flex or Flex Plus fares on Emirates flights and Value, Flex or Business fares on flydubai flights. 

More details including information on how to register for the offer is available on the Emirates Skywards website. Emirates Skywards members can also access the latest information on special offers through the Skywards section on the Emirates app. 

Offer Details:

Validity: All existing and new Emirates Skywards members can register for the offer

Booking Period: 20 March 2019- 31 March 2019 (both days inclusive)

Travel Period: 10 April 2019- 27 June 2019 and 6 September 2019- 30 November 2019 (all days inclusive)

First ticket: Base Skywards Miles + Bonus 100% Skywards Miles 

Second ticket: Base Skywards Miles + Bonus 200% Skywards Miles

Third ticket: Base Skywards Miles + Bonus 300% Skywards Miles

Donate for a cause and get the chance to become a Miles Millionaire

Members of the Emirates Skywards loyalty programme can also donate AED 20 for a good cause and stand a chance to win a million Skywards Miles. The ‘Thanks a Million’ campaign is in its 18th year and proceeds raised through the initiative will be donated to the Emirates Airline Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on helping disadvantaged children reach their potential by providing them access to shelter, food, healthcare, and education. The winners of the lucky draw, one for 500,000 Skywards Miles and another for one million Skywards Miles will be announced at the Dubai World Cup event taking place on March 30, 2019 at the Meydan racecourse. More information on how to donate can be found here. 

About Emirates Skywards

Emirates Skywards, the award-winning loyalty programme of Emirates and flydubai, offers four tiers of membership - Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum - with each membership tier providing exclusive privileges. Emirates Skywards members earn Skywards Miles when they fly on Emirates, flydubai or partner airlines, or when they use the programme’s designated hotels, car rentals, financial, leisure and lifestyle partners. Skywards Miles can be redeemed for an extensive range of rewards, including tickets on Emirates or flydubai plus Emirates Skywards partner airlines, hotel accommodation, excursions and exclusive shopping.  Visit Emirates Skywards online at: www.emirates.com/skywards or skywards.flydubai.com

Cutting trees can help the environment

Among the recommended options to maintain the forests’ health is to harvest mature trees to make way for new ones.

Trees play a vital role in providing natural carbon storage for the environment, helping to sequester it from the atmosphere and helping mitigate climate change. Trees are important in our goal to help stop global warming on its tracks, but the need of our country for wood and other by-products is undeniable. Aside from this, many of our countrymen’s livelihoods depend on the forestry sector. As such, proper management of the aforementioned is of tantamount value. 

Sustainable forest management is the holistic approach to the problems that local forests encounter today as it not only focuses on the well-being of the environment but also zeroes in on the needs of the people who directly benefit from it. Among the recommended options to maintain the forests’ health is to harvest mature trees to make way for new ones. Here are five ways cutting trees can help the environment:

1. It does not release the carbon stored inside

Unless these trees are allowed to decay or burn, the fear of contributing to climate change through cutting of trees is out of the question. Matured trees that are later on processed to become wood products continue to store that carbon and keep it out of the atmosphere for decades. Based on a study, the net CO2 emission of wood recorded only -1,000 kilograms per cubic meter, making it the most sustainable building material option in terms of carbon emissions.

2.   Wood as a raw material is renewable

Responsibly sourced wood is the only renewable raw material there is today. This means that trees that are harvested are 100% biodegradable and can possibly be replenished for new growth. If we refuse to cut down trees, we’ll hinder the production of fuel and fiber needed in providing warmth and shelter through the products derived from them.

3.    Cutting mature trees provides regeneration

The moment forests become too crowded, there will be increased competition among trees for light and water, which will make them more susceptible to drought and insect attacks. Cutting mature trees provides regeneration, improves the habitat of many species, and maintains forest health in the long run.

4.   Sustainable forest management provides livelihood opportunities

Investing in the industry makes way for more jobs in the upland and rural areas as it requires an abundant amount of manpower to harvest and process wood. An increase in Sustainable Forest Management income-generating projects means more revenue to farmers and workers which will provide additional taxes to the government while preserving the environment.

5.   Wood produces essential products

Wood products come in many forms such as lumber, paper and pulp, chemicals, food, furniture, etc. One can only imagine life without it, giving up common necessities such as toilet paper and reading materials.

One of the organizations pushing for sustainable forest management is the Philippine Wood Producers Association (PWPA). They believe that by ensuring that there is a balance between the needs of the people and the viability of the forests, a more prosperous and sustainable future for the entire country can be achieved. They continually promote the market of wood, which when harnessed sustainably, can be an important driver for growth and development for many communities, and by extension for the entire economy as well. 

About PWPA

The Philippine Wood Producers Association (PWPA) is the national association of companies, corporations, partnerships, and individuals involved in forest management. It aims to promote the sustainable management of natural and plantation forests that will increase their capacity to supply the wood requirement and enhance their capacity to provide ecological balance for the country. It strives to serve and protect the market of the wood industry against unfair trade practices. By executing events such as the annual Philippine Wood Expo, participating in timber conferences, workshops, and environmental advocacies, it attains the public’s appreciation for its role in the social, economic, and environmental development of the country.

8990, Megawide sign first horizontal development contract

(L-R): Megawide Construction Corporation precast assistant vice president

Einstein Chiu, 8990 Holdings president and chief executive officer Willie J. Uy, and

chief operations officer Alexander Ace Sotto

8990 Holdings, listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange under the symbol “HOUSE” and one of the fastest growing real estate developers in the Philippines, expands its partnership with Megawide Construction Corporation with the signing of a contract to build its newest housing project in Meycauayan, Bulacan.

 “We are delighted to extend our partnership beyond just vertical developments. With the addition of Deca Homes Meycauayan to our list of projects with Megawide, we are certain that we will be able to deliver quality homes to every hardworking Filipino,” said 8990 Holdings president and chief executive officer Willie J. Uy.

Megawide will bring in its precast expertise that would produce approximately 5,000 townhouses within 8990’s 41-hectare property located in Barangay Saluysoy, Meycauayan, Bulacan. This is 8990’s second project in the province. In 2016, 8990 started developing a 14-hectare property in Marilao. The residential development currently offers a mix of townhouse units and medium-rise buildings.

Bulacan is already a popular residential choice for families who like to work in the city but prefer to come home to a place where modern life and rustic living meet. It is poised to benefit from the major infrastructure projects that will build the province into the next high growth area. It is a mere hour away from Quezon City via the North Luzon Expressway and soon it will be made more accessible with the completion of MRT-7 connecting EDSA North Avenue and San Jose Del Monte. It is also an hour away from the Clark International Airport. Plans are underway to build an International Airport in Bulacan.

Megawide is currently constructing 8990’s two large scale developments, the 13-building Urban Deca Homes Tondo located in Tondo, Manila and the 22-building Urban Deca Homes Ortigas along Ortigas Avenue Extension. 

Toshiba home appliance line launched

Leading Japanese appliance company Toshiba recently launched their latest line of advanced home appliances that address the varying lifestyle needs of discerning Filipino consumers. Designed and engineered with the “takumi spirit” – a craftsman’s relentless pursuit of perfection, each Toshiba product, from washers and dryers, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners and water dispensers, is manufactured with an uncompromising attention to detail. Gracing the launch were (L-R) Charles Zhang, Deputy General Manager of Concepcion Midea Inc.; Zeal Jiang, General Manager of Overseas Market – Refrigerator Division, Midea Group; Rooney Xiao, General Manager of Overseas Market – Laundry Division, Midea Group; and Phillip Trapaga, General Manager, Concepcion Midea Inc.

AXA Philippines posts record premium income growth

Total Premium Income (TPI) is four times higher than average growth of top competitors

AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance companies, posted a growth in Total Premium Income (TPI) of 22%, ending 2017 with more than P26 billion.

Based on data from the Insurance Commission, AXA Philippines' TPI growth is double the average industry growth of 11%. It also exceeded the combined growth of the top four insurance companies in the Philippines.

“AXA’s impressive growth is very much a result of the continuous expansion of our distribution network across the country and the constant introduction of new solutions to address the evolving needs of our customers,” says Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines CEO. “We beefed up our suite of products to serve very specific markets: launching new ones like MyAmbition, Retire Smart, and Smart Traveller; and improving existing ones like Global Health Access and HealthMax. This year, we expect to ride on this robust growth trajectory as we move towards achieving market leadership.”

Hora also attributes AXA’s success to the company’s commitment towards customer centricity and leveraging on technology to aid its distributors in reaching out to more customers. He says the overall improved economy also contributed to the rise in its 2017 figures.

Its general insurance arm, Charter Ping An, outpaced the market growth rate of 17%, moving up to number three in the rankings from last year’s number four spot. AXA acquired Charter Ping An in 2016 and now offers products such as motor, business, and home protection, becoming the only insurance company in the country’s top five to provide both life and non-life coverage.

In 2017, AXA Philippines introduced MyAmbition, the first single premium variable life plan for young professionals that can be completely availed online; Retire Smart, a regular premium variable life plan intended for disciplined fund build-up paid until retirement date; and Smart Traveller, the travel insurance that offers personal accident and medical coverage plus 24/7 helpline anywhere in the world. It also widened the scope of cover of Global Health Access to include hypertension and high cholesterol, and presented a more convenient way to pay for HealthMax via HealthMax 10-Pay.

AXA entered into a partnership with the National Basketball Association (NBA) to become its official insurance partner in the country. The strategic partnership highlights both companies’ shared principles of teamwork, integrity, courage, and innovation; and allows AXA to reach a broader audience. 

In order to empower more people to live the life they choose, AXA also launched its Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) platform in 2017, a service and tool that an AXA financial coach uses to explain to the customer in easy terms why life protection is important, especially in cases of unforeseen setbacks and emergencies.

AXA Philippines is a joint venture of Paris-based AXA Group and Metrobank, one of the largest financial conglomerates in the country. To date, it has around 4,000 financial advisors serving one million customers nationwide.

Philippines faces health and environmental risks amid lack of landfills

The Philippines is expected to move further towards urbanization as it grows and develops. Unfortunately, its solid waste infrastructure is unable to keep pace with the economic and population growth. Inadequate, over-filled dumpsites and landfills are causing various health and environmental problems.

Some of the serious environmental risks caused by waste overflow landfills are ground and surface water contamination, flooding, greenhouse gas production, air pollution, exposure to toxins and spread of disease. Many disposal sites across the country contain infectious material, threatening sanitation workers and waste pickers and, eventually the general public. 

Tests of liquid runoff or leachate from Rodriguez and Payatas dump sites were found to contain high levels of contaminants. Most of the leachate seeps untreated into groundwatersources of drinking water and flows to the Marikina and Pasig River systems and Manila Bay. Landfills and dump sites, despite government’s efforts to situate them in areas far from population centers, still pose a threat to the health and the environment. 

A lot of wastes, about one-third of solid waste generated in the cities, are often dumped indiscriminately and often end up clogging the drains, causing flooding and increase in the populations of rodents and other pests. The urban poor suffer most from life-threatening conditions resulting from uncollected garbage. 

In this age of digitalization and technology, one of the innovative solutions for solid waste management is decentralization using pyrolysis technology. Pyrolysis is coined from the Greek terms pyro or fire and lysis or separating. It is the industrial process of breaking down large molecules of waste such as agricultural residues, scraps, tires, and non-recyclable materials into smaller molecules of gas, oil and carbon black. One of the by-product of pyrolysis technology is ash which can be mixed with aggregates for construction purposes.

Most importantly, people should realize that they play a huge role in solving the massive garbage problem in the Philippines. It should be the country’s goal to create an environment free of garbage, minimizing of waste disposal to landfill, educating the community and make them aware of their roles and responsibilities, and to involve the business community in solid waste management.

Free Unli Rice during early dinner at all Mang Inasal stores this March

Mang Inasal is giving all unli-rice lovers a special Early Dinner Treat as part of the brand’s 15th anniversary celebration. 

Get free unlimited rice servings on all Paborito Value Meals from March 11 to March 28, Mondays thru Thursdays, from 4 to 6 pm only.

The Early Dinner Treat promo is available at all Mang Inasal stores nationwide and valid for dine-in transactions only.

Come celebrate Mang Inasal’s 15th anniversary with us. Visit any of our over 500 stores nationwide for your Solb sa Sarap, Solb sa Saya Early Dinner Treat with free unli-rice!

Try Mang Inasal Bangus Sisig this Lent

If you are looking for ways to observe fasting and abstinence this Lenten Season, you may want to try this ‘hidden gem’ in the menu of Mang Inasal.

Try the Mang Inasal Bangus Sisig which a number of foodies claim to be really 

“Bangusarap!”

Savor this delightful dish of sizzling bangus chunks, seasoned with special spices, ideal this Lenten Season.

During Easter and for the rest of the year, you can still have your fix of Bangus Sisig, together with other Mang Inasal favorites like the Chicken Inasal, Halo-Halo, Pork Sisig, palabok, Molo Soup and New Iced Gulaman. 

Visit any of the over 500 stores of Mang Inasal nationwide or place your orders at #733-1111.

giordano ladies launches Spring/Summer 2019 collection

Reimagines the beauty of the stars and the skies

The night skies are full of eternal tales told by the stars, so which constellation will you explore next?

The giordano ladies Spring/Summer 2019 collection reimagines the charm of the ever-changing landscape of constellations. Inspiration takes form in abstract geometric or linear details, manifested as contrasting black and white or an interplay of varied shades of lightness and darkness.

In designing its latest collection, giordano ladies focused on creating simple, clean, modern classic clothes for the modern-day Filipina that capture the enchanting glow of the night. The collection contains various timeless pieces that embrace the romantic night skies and the magnificence of its celestial bodies, embodying the elegance and the dynamic lifestyle of women in this generation.

The giordano ladies Spring/Summer collection offers asymmetric pieces, culottes, pleats, knitted tops, and cardigans, with colors and patterns that resemble the dramatic and romantic night sky and the stars. Like astronomy, the collection is all about truthful but romantic ideas of our imagination.

Just as the moon’s soothing light shines through the dark, the collection offers a mesmerizing and striking opposition of light and dark. The contrast trim cardigan, boat neck knitted tank, and geometric blocking pleated knitted skirt ensemble has an unexpected, surreal cut-out detail just as how the moon shies away from the long top.

Embracing the starry sky, this constellation-print cotton dress, paired with cotton dobby side-slit culottes and wingtip leather brogues reworked the elegance and timeless beauty of a modern Filipina.

The late chilly breeze and the eloquence of the night inspired the combination of this airy cotton blended swallow tail woven tank and cotton blended maxi culottes.

Stars are glistening in this new collection as tiny reflections of micro sequins are attached to the yarn long cardigan paired with a double-knit tank top and cotton dobby side-slit culottes.

Another palette in the collection is inspired by the shimmering reflection of moonlight on a quiet lake with a watercolor-print asymmetric dress.

 

Chic and classy. This lake jacquard cotton knitted top with matching jacquard knitted pencil skirt projects one of the countless ways on how they reinterpreted the starry skies. 

Visit giordano ladies at SM Aura Premier, SM Megamall Bldg. D, The Podium Mall, The Shoppes, Solaire Resort and Casino, and in Ayala Cebu this April. 

For more information about the latest collection from giordano ladies, visit www.giordanoladies.com, or like and follow its facebook page at www.facebook.com/pg/GiordanoLadiesPH, or on Instagram at @giordanoladiesph. 

Cartoon Network’s We Bare Bears are Coming to Asia!

Want Grizzly, Ice Bear, and Panda to come to the Philippines? Vote now and be part of the biggest bear hug event of the year!

#WeBareBearsHugs

Cartoon Network’s We Bare Bears are embarking on their first ever tour of Asia, and they are excited to meet all of their friends in the Philippines!

Be ready to form your own bear squad and hang out with Grizz, Panda and Ice Bear as they visit iconic places, snap some selfies and spread paw-sitivity with plenty of bear hugs.

But here’s the catch! To make that happen, we need the help of all bear fans to flex those voting muscles! All you need to do is to vote for the Philippines on www.webarebears.cartoonnetworkasia.com/hugstour if you want the bear bros to come and see you and your friends. 

And to help you get well-acquainted with the lovable bears, here are some quick facts we’ve rounded up just for you:

Grizzly Bear

Grizzly is the oldest of the brothers. Although he is the charismatic, jovial, and a highly motivated leader, Grizzly is not the brightest bear in the bunch. What he lacks in common sense he makes up for with pure energy and excitement – which leads the Bears into endless comedic complications.

Girzzly Bear loves:

• Video games

• The great outdoors 

• Chatting and eating

Panda Bear

Panda loves pop culture and his smartphone. As a middle child, he is sensitive and a hopeless romantic. He'd really love a girlfriend, but most of his attempts have been utter failures. Luckily, his brothers are always there to lift him up.

Panda loves:

• Painting 

• All things Anime

• Being glued to his phone

Ice Bear

The youngest in the family, Ice Bear is a bear of few words. He’s a bit odd and outwardly eccentric – after all, he refers to himself in the third person and sleeps in a refrigerator. But don’t underestimate him: skilled in a plethora of unknown talents, Ice Bear is a hidden savant and jack-of-all-trades.

Ice Bear loves: 

• Being quiet 

• Speaking different languages 

• Cooking

Keep the votes coming on www.webarebears.cartoonnetworkasia.com/hugstour and be sure to catch the adorable bear-bros when they make a stop in your city! Follow the bears’ “We’ll Be There” journey via the Cartoon Network Asia official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/CartoonNetworkAsia. Or if you want to hang out with some real We Bare Bears’ fans, join Cartoon Network Asia’s Community Page at http://bit.ly/WBBFBGroup and get updates on your favorite bear-bros all year round!

Don’t forget to stay tuned in to We Bare Bears on Cartoon Network available on Cignal Digital TV Channel 220 (HD), Sky Direct Channel 15 (HD), SkyCable Channel 178 (HD), and Destiny Cable Channel 178 (HD Digital).

A Mother’s best, yet toughest choice

This 2019, Absolute Distilled Drinking Water explores a territory of love uncommon to most mothers. A discovery of Pure Love and where it sits between the safe comforts of a mother’s love and the uncertainties of letting go.

Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo on raising a family built on trust

A discussion with Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, an Absolute Mom for seven years, as she shares her own story on Pure Love; a discovery she slowly uncovered while raising her own family, and raising herself too, as now a mom to three children: Yohan, Lucho, and Luna.

Absolute: What would be the main difference of your experience as a new mom (back when you only had Yohan) to now that you have Lucho and Luna?

Judy Ann: It was very different. I had Yohan when I was 26 and at that time parang ang bilis lang ng lahat. Hindi pa nag sink in that I’m already responsible for the life of another human being. Noon, ang alam ko lang nagtatrabaho ako ng mabuti and I thought that was enough. When Lucho and Luna came, my perspective changed because nag-aalaga na ako ng toddler and ng infant at the same time. I learned to be more attentive and give more importance to the love and attention that I give. 

A: Would you consider yourself a hands-on mom? 

JA: I try to be as hands-on as I can to all of my children. But I cannot always be present because of industry I’m in. There was a time when Lucho got into an accident, and I was out of town for work. Grabe yung guilt ko nun. It’s never easy. It took me time para matanggap ko that it doesn’t make me a bad mom pag hindi ko nakikita yung milestones nila, or pag wala ako if something bad happens. I am just blessed that I am surrounded by people who love my children. And I teach my kids also na may mga ibang tao din na nagmamahal and aalagaan sila. So they also learn to trust and respect them.

 A: What would be your biggest discovery about a mother’s love?

JA: You have to learn how to Trust. Trust is one of the foundations of any healthy relationship. Parang sa amin din na mag-asawa, Ryan taught me the values of honesty, trust, and respect. And this is what I teach our children too. I learned, especially now that I have Yohan, Lucho, and Luna that you have to trust them, so they also begin to trust themselves. You have to make them feel na may confidence ka sa ginagawa nila, and in return, magkakaron din sila ng tiwala at confidence sa mga ginagawa nila.

A: Do you think this is what Pure Love means? Trusting your children to make their own choices?

JA: I give my children space so they can have their own experiences. Isa to sa mga discoveries ko sa sarili ko as my experiences also grow as a mom. I make it a point that I make my kids feel that I trust them. So they also trust me back in return and hindi sila takot magsabi sa amin ng experiences nila, kahit good pa yan or bad. I remind them na wag matakot because kahit ano pang pagdaanan mo sa buhay, lagi kang may matututunan. 

Now that I am a mom of three, the way I understand Pure Love has evolved. Ngayon, Pure Love means I allow them to make their own decisions and may tiwala ako sa mga desisyon nila. I give them the freedom to choose their sports or hobbies, or if gusto nila tanggapin yung endorsement deal or hindi.

A: What if they make decisions that you don’t agree with? 

JA: I listen. Pinapakinggan ko sila and I try to understand that best way that I can. Pero siyempre I also make them understand my point of view and sa paraan na maiintindihan din nila - kung tama ba to or hindi? Before I used to overanalyze their decisions, pero I learned na they’re kids, and kids say what they feel. So it’s a learning discovery din for me.

A: How would you encourage other moms to show their Pure Love?

JA: Probably isa ito sa mga pinakamahirap gawin bilang nanay, kasi takot tayo mag let go. But always remember that they will only learn how to trust themselves, when we make them feel that we trust them first. To moms, hindi natin malalaman how much they will grow if hindi natin sila bibigyan ng chance. We let go little by little, so we allow them to grow and be their own person. That’s what I’ve learned about Pure Love today. It’s trusting them so they can be their own person.

Motherhood is indeed a journey of trust for Judy Ann. It is learning to co-create this life filled with decision-making together with her children, and that her greatest discovery yet as a mom is realizing there is Pure Love that continuously grows inside her.

Absolute celebrates #PureLoveTrusts 

For the first time in seven years with Absolute, Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo stars in her first-ever TVC with children Yohan, Lucho, and Luna in celebration of the brand’s newest campaign #PureLoveTrusts. This gives light to one of the biggest fears and milestones of a mother – trusting and letting go. 

Absolute aims to inspire mothers to find within them the heart to trust their child’s own decisions. To understand that trusting is a continuous learning process – from supporting their decisions, being present as they face the consequences and helping them make sense out of it. It also means hoping that whatever choices they make, these will all lead them to the person they’ve always hoped of becoming.