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| (L-R): DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Executive Director Enrico Paringit; DOST Assistant Secretary for Development Cooperation Rodolfo Calzado Jr.; DOST Assistant Secretary Diana Ignacio; DOST Secretary Renato Solidum; SM Investments Corporation Consultant and Head of Sustainability and Investor Relations Timothy Daniels; SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Head of Sustainabilitty and Resilience Liza Silerio; SM Investments Corporation Assistant Vice President for Sustainability Christine Wuthrich (Image Source: Malaya Business Insight/SM Prime Holdings Inc.) |
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) signed a memorandum of understanding with SM Investments Corporation to help advance the development of sustainable plastic materials and improve plastic waste management strategies during the “Tactics for Better PlasTIK (Technology, Innovation, Knowledge)” forum held last October 10, 2024 at Megatrade Hall 3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Both organizations agreed to collaborate on essential and sustainable plastics initiatives, including joint research and development, training programs, and conferences.
SM Investments Consultant and Head of Sustainability and Investor Relations Timothy Daniels highlighted the importance of this partnership in supporting SM’s sustainability goals, saying, “Being a responsible company is important to SM and plastics are a real sustainability issue for the country. We are keen to work with our many stakeholders to reduce plastics use in the Philippines. We always look for practical solutions. This collaboration with DOST will enhance our collective waste management efforts and also foster knowledge sharing and sustainable partnerships across sectors to help achieve that." Representing DOST were Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., Assistant Secretary for Development Cooperation Rodolfo Calzado Jr. and Executive Director of the DOST Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development Dr. Enrico C. Paringit. “We thank SM for this partnership and we are optimistic that through this collaboration we can provide solutions and open opportunities for industry players and for our citizens. DOST remains committed to bring technologies from development stage to real-world application," said Secretary Solidum. “We hope that our green technologies will make its way to the hearts and minds of our citizens through this expo and forum. DOST will be at the forefront of making innovations work for the Filipino,” said Dr. Paringit.
This partnership marks a significant stride towards a more sustainable future for the Philippines. The SM Group, most notably its retail and mall teams, has been taking steps to reduce plastic use, recognizing that key contributors of plastic waste include bags at retail outlets, product packaging, as well as plastic water bottles and food packaging. A standardized waste segregation policy called RDC (Recyclable, Disposable and Compostable) and a mall-wide campaign called Waste-Free Future are currently being implemented. SM, through SM Prime Holdings Inc., partnered with Japanese company GUUN to develop infrastructure for systematic waste management and resource recovery. This partnership will implement the Japanese technique of reducing landfill impact. The technology converts non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle packaging into alternative fuel.
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7-Eleven Celebrates 40th Year In PH With Heartwarming Video "Laging Kasama"
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| (Image Source: Digital Filipina/7-Eleven Philippines) |
Marking its 40th year in the Philippines, 7-Eleven is celebrating more than just a milestone filled with exciting promos and new product releases. In the launch of its first-ever video story entitled "Laging Kasama", 7-Eleven pays tribute to its four decades in the industry, showcasing why it remains the Philippines’ number one convenience store. Since 1984, 7-Eleven has been an integral part of the daily lives of the community. With nearly 4,000 stores nationwide, it has become a key presence in ordinary stories — a comforting hangout spot for friends, a life-saver for last-minute needs, or a convenient meal stop for families to connect. 7-Eleven has earned its place as the trusted neighbor for millions of Filipinos.
This unique bond between the brand and its community is perfectly captured in Laging Kasama. The story, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Director Victor Villanueva (known for the indie hit Patay Na Si Hesus), beautifully explores themes of family and love. The film introduces us to Tatay Albert and his son Raymart whose relationship has been both challenged and strengthened with 7-Eleven playing a vital role as their paboritong kapitbahay. Raymart, portrayed by Lucas Martin and Jeremy Mayores, has always seen his father as a superhero, admiring his strength and unwavering determination. As a child, Raymart and Tatay Albert (played by Benjie Belena) regularly hung out at 7-Eleven, enjoying Crunch Time meals, Big Bite, Busog Meal, GULP, 7-Fresh Siopao, City Cafe, and other 7-Eleven favorites to share over their bonding sessions. Through the years, the father and son went through inevitable challenges that tested their relationship. What used to be their “dating gawi” bondings at 7-Eleven became time spent making ends meet and growing up. As the duo navigate their way through life, 7-Eleven remains constant in their lives, there for them in moments of joy and sadness as their trusted neighbor.
People from all walks of life, like Raymart and Tatay Albert, will find pieces of themselves in the video. Viewers are sure to be emotionally drawn into the narrative which tenderly captures the mundane yet meaningful moments of real-life relationships inspired by the countless stories that have unfolded within 7-Eleven stores and beyond. The video is a testament to 7-Eleven’s legacy of serving the community for the past 40 years — understanding every need and being a dependable presence for every customer. It firmly cements 7-Eleven as the nation’s paboritong kapitbahay from then, to now, and into the future — laging kasama.
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Taiwan Travel Fair Concludes With Exciting Highlights And Upcoming Meet And Greets
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| Participating travel agencies, airlines and travel applications offered exceptional promotions and lended assistance to those who are planning their own dream trip to Taiwan during the Panahon Sa Taiwan "Ang Iyong Love Story" Travel Fair. (Image Source: Orange Magazine PH/Taiwan Tourism PH) |
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| (L-R): Taiwan Tourism Administration Director Cindy Chen, Taiwan Tourism Ambassadors Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office Philippines Deputy Representative Michael Lee (Image Source: Orange Magazine PH/Taiwan Tourism PH) |
The third and final Manila leg of the Panahon Sa Taiwan “Ang Iyong Love Story” Travel Fair, held last October 12-13, 2024 at the Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center, concluded successfully as Filipino travelers gathered there to explore exclusive Taiwan travel deals, participated in interactive games, and went home with giveaways. A highlight of the event was the Meet and Greet session with Taiwan Tourism Ambassadors Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos. Fans were thrilled to meet the celebrity couple in person. Gabbi and Khalil also shared details of their upcoming Meet and Greet in Taiwan, set for December 14 in Taipei and December 15 in Kaohsiung. These much-anticipated events are expected to draw in fans from both Taiwan and the Philippines, further solidifying their influence in promoting Taiwan’s tourism to a broader audience.
Attendees benefited from exceptional travel promotions offered by partner airlines, travel agencies, and travel applications, facilitating the planning of their dream trips to Taiwan. With Taiwan’s visa-free entry for Filipinos and its proximity to the Philippines, it remains one of the most accessible and sought-after destinations for Filipino travelers. Additionally, for all Filipinos who have visited Taiwan and previously participated in the Taiwan Lucky Land event, there is encouraging news: from today until December 31, 2024 participants can enter an additional draw, thereby enhancing their chances of winning an NT$5,000 travel e-voucher. Furthermore, passengers with layovers of 7 to 24 hours are eligible for complimentary half-day transit tours, providing them the opportunity to explore Taiwan’s captivating attractions during their wait. Director Cindy Chen of the Taiwan Tourism Administration expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are grateful for the enthusiastic response from Filipino travelers at the Panahon Sa Taiwan Travel Fair. With Taiwan’s visa-free policy for Filipinos, we hope to strengthen the connection between our countries and invite even more visitors to explore Taiwan’s beauty and rich experiences.”
The Panahon Sa Taiwan Travel Fair successfully enhanced the tourism partnership between Taiwan and the Philippines, encouraging more Filipinos to explore Taiwan’s unique culture and history. The event also marked the relaunch of the “TAIWAN 3.0” logo featuring a wave-like design inspired by Taiwan’s mountains, oceans, and winding roads, harmonizing with the Taiwan Tourism Administration’s branding. The slogan “Waves Of Wonder” reflects Taiwan’s rich tourism resources and cultural heritage, inviting travelers to discover its breathtaking scenery and hospitality. With Gabbi and Khalil’s upcoming Meet and Greet events in Taiwan just around the corner, excitement is building as Filipino travelers look forward to not only discovering Taiwan but also meeting their favorite ambassadors on foreign soil. For further updates and the latest promotions, please visit the official Taiwan Tourism PH Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanTourismPH/.
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Celebrating Super Citizens During Elderly Filipino Week 2024 At SM
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| (Image Source: INQUIRER.net/SM Supermalls) |
As part of its Elderly Filipino Week 2024 celebrations, SM Cares, together with the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the SM Super Grannies Club, hosted a series of fun, engaging, and meaningful activities to honor the senior citizen community held last October 1, 2024 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall in Pasay City. During the morning activity, the attendees were treated to numerous interactive sessions, wellness programs, and exciting surprises tailored specifically for senior citizens, aimed at celebrating their invaluable contributions, fostering a sense of inclusion, and providing opportunities for them to enjoy and connect with others. Among the highlights of the morning event were a eucharistic celebration at the Shrine of Jesus the Way, the Truth, and the Life; the Walk for Life parade; and a Zumba session. Meanwhile, Filipino balladeer and 70’s Jukebox King Darius Razon also serenaded the attendees with his mesmerizing voice.
Another event aimed to support our Super Citizens was held at the SM North EDSA Skydome co-organized with Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP). The Talakayan Forum brought together senior citizens, local government representatives, and various stakeholders to address pressing concerns and share insights about senior welfare, inclusivity, and the role of the elderly in nation-building. Designed as an open forum for important discussions that directly impact the senior citizen community, the Talakayan Forum aims to facilitate meaningful exchange, empower the elderly through dialogue, and ensure their voices are heard in community and national development. The forum also highlighted the invaluable contributions of the elderly to community development and nation-building while strengthening partnerships between local government units, senior citizen organizations, and the private sector in support of senior welfare.
These activities align with SM Cares’ mission to promote inclusivity and provide platforms for important societal conversations, furthering its support for senior citizens as part of its Program on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) which promotes a barrier-free and disability inclusive environment for PWDs through SM Supermalls. SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-Friendly initiative.
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Drag Race Philippines Crowns Maxie As Next Drag Superstar
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| (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/HBO GO/Drag Race Philippines) |
World of Wonder announced that Maxie was recently crowned as the winner of the third season of Drag Race Philippines, receiving a grand prize of Php1,000,000, a year’s supply of products from Anastasia Beverly Hills, and the title of the Philippines’ Next Drag Superstar. Maxie was crowned following an emotional final lip sync for the crown against Khianna to the song "Lipad Ng Pangarap" by Angeline Quinto and Regine Velasquez.
Earlier in the episode, the final four queens Angel, Khianna, Maxie, and Tita Baby were challenged to deliver three looks in a finale ball as well as perform in the T.I.T.E. (Totally Impressive Talent Show Extravaganza), marking the first time in Drag Race her-story biological siblings (Angel and Maxie) competed for the final crown. At the ball, each queen served three fierce looks and in the T.I.T.E., Angel and Khianna performed original songs, Maxie sang an original song live, and Tita Baby gave an experimental flight attendant performance. Following the final four’s performances at the ball and the T.I.T.E., host Paolo Ballesteros chose Maxie and Khianna to advance to the final lip sync for the crown. Additionally in the finale, all the previously eliminated queens returned to the main stage where it was ru-vealed that the 11 queens voted Versex as this season’s Miss Congeniality, earning her a cash prize of Php40,000. Reigning Season two Miss Congeniality winner Hana Beshie returned to the stage to pass on the title to Versex. The 11 Filipina queens who competed in Drag Race Philippines Season three included Angel (Manila), John Fedellaga (California), JQuinn (Caloocan), Khianna (Cagayan de Oro), Maxie (Manila), Myx Chanel (Marikina), Popstar Bench (Manila), Tita Baby (San Juan), Versex (Manila), Yudipota (Bacolod), and Zymba Ding (Caloocan).
This season’s judges panel included host Paolo Ballesteros and main judges Jiggly Caliente and Jervi Wrightson (KaladKaren) along with alternating judges Rajo Laurel, BJ Pascual, and Jon Santos and special guest judges Jolina Magdangal-Escueta, R’Bonney Nola Gabriel, Angeline Quinto, Melai Cantiveros-Francisco, Precious Paula Nicole, Kyle Echarri, Sharon Cuneta, and Janella Salvador. Drag Race Philippines is produced in the Philippines by Fullhouse Asia Production Studios Inc. in conjunction with World of Wonder Productions Inc. with Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, Tom Campbell, and RuPaul Charles serving as Executive Producers. Revisit all three seasons of Drag Race Philippines Seasons on HBO GO in the Philippines and WOW Presents Plus Worldwide. Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph, the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only Php1,190 on the 12-month plan, or via Cignal and Globe. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.
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"Lumpia Queen" Abi Marquez Scores Big At 19th w3 Awards
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| “Internet’s Lumpia Queen" Abi Marquez (Image Source: Orange Magazine TV/NYMA) |
The Philippines’ very own “Internet’s Lumpia Queen" Abi Marquez has once again showcased the nation’s talent on a global stage by winning a prestigious award at the 19th annual w3 Awards. Abi received the Best in Silver award in the Media/Entertainment category for Social Features — Best Overall Social Presence last October 2, 2024 in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the digital landscape. In the same category, Abi stood out among brilliant competitors, including the AARP TikTok Channel, First We Feast, and Bank of America – Enterprise Creative Solutions which all took home the Best in Gold. Other notable mentions in the Best in Silver category included The Darkroom and EPAM Continuum, further showcasing the incredible talent celebrated at this year’s event.
The w3 Awards honor creative excellence in various digital fields, including websites, advertising, marketing, mobile apps, and social media. This year’s competition was fierce, showcasing top-tier talent and innovative projects from around the world. From viral content that garnered widespread acclaim to winning international awards and taking over the global stage, Abi’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. “Abi’s remarkable ability to blend creativity with social media has rightfully earned her the Best in Silver in the 19th Annual w3 Awards,” says Kat Bautista, Chief Operating Officer of NYMA, the talent management team representing Abi. She adds, “NYMA takes immense pride in Abi’s achievements, as they not only signify her personal success but also represent a collective triumph for Filipinos. Her accomplishments reflect our shared pride and progress.”
