Tesla Philippines Powers the Future with Its First Supercharger Station at BGC

Tesla Philippines Powers the Future with Its First Supercharger Station at BGC

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Tesla Philippines officially launches its first Supercharging Station today at Uptown Mall, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), marking a milestone in advancing electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the country. Featuring four state-of-the-art Superchargers, this development highlights Tesla’s commitment to building a robust charging network and fostering sustainable transportation in the Philippines.

Fast, Efficient Charging for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Tesla’s Superchargers operate at a peak efficiency of 250kW, delivering an impressive 120km range in just 5 minutes of charging—perfect for three round trips between the Tesla Experience Center at Uptown Parade and Quezon City. With a pay-per-use model, Tesla owners can charge their vehicles at PHP 19 per kWh, making EV travel not only convenient but also cost-effective.

For instance, fully charging a Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive (with a range of up to 513km, WLTP) will cost approximately PHP 1,140, enabling seamless long-distance travel while reinforcing Tesla’s mission of sustainable and efficient EV mobility.

The Tesla Charging Experience: Plug In, Charge, and Go

Tesla’s innovative charging technology makes recharging simple and hassle-free. The Supercharging system is designed with user convenience in mind:

Automated Charger Detection: The charging port cover automatically flips open for seamless plug-in.

Tesla Mobile App Integration: Monitor your charging status, check Supercharger availability, and receive notifications when your vehicle is ready.

Automatic Payments: Payments are processed directly through the app, eliminating the need for manual transactions.

Tesla’s philosophy of "Plug in, charge, and go" embodies their vision of effortless EV ownership.

A Collaborative Push for Sustainable Energy

The launch event, led by Isabel Fan, Regional Director of Tesla, underscores the company's commitment to accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy. Speaking at the event, Fan emphasized:

“Tesla's mission is to enable the widespread adoption of electric vehicles by integrating charging infrastructure into people’s lifestyles. We are excited to expand our charging network across the Philippines and collaborate with stakeholders to create a seamless EV experience.”

Prominent figures graced the event, including key officials from the Department of Energy (DOE)—Undersecretary Sharon Garin, Undersecretary Felix William “Wimpy” Fuentebella, Assistant Secretary Ronald Conquilla, and Director Patrick Aquino. Representatives from Fort Bonifacio Barangay and Megaworld Corporation, the parent company of Uptown Mall, were also present.

Tesla’s EVs Now Available in the Philippines

Tesla enthusiasts can now view and order the Model 3 (starting at PHP 2,136,000, inclusive of VAT) and the Model Y (starting at PHP 2,396,000, inclusive of VAT).

For inquiries, customers can contact the Tesla Philippines hotline at 1-800-13220087. Stay updated by following Tesla’s official accounts on X (@teslaphp) and Instagram (@teslamotorsph).

Driving the EV Revolution

With the launch of its first Supercharger Station, Tesla Philippines is setting the stage for a greener, more sustainable future. This milestone not only enhances EV accessibility but also inspires the country to embrace the global shift toward renewable energy.

Take the first step toward a sustainable lifestyle with Tesla—where innovation meets convenience. Visit the Uptown Mall Supercharger Station today and experience the future of mobility.

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COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair (CTF) Concludes with Resounding Success, Ushering in a New Era for the Philippine Coconut Industry

COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair (CTF) Concludes with Resounding Success, Ushering in a New Era for the Philippine Coconut Industry

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

The first-ever COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair, held from December 2-4, 2024, at the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall, has concluded with resounding success, marking a significant leap forward for the Philippine coconut industry. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotions and OTOP (BMDPO), in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and 14 other implementing agencies, the event served as a dynamic platform to showcase the vast potential and innovation within the country's coconut sector.

The trade fair drew significant attention, highlighting the Philippines' position as one of the leading producers of high-quality coconut products. A total of 100 exhibitors from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao proudly displayed a diverse range of coconut-based products, encompassing virgin coconut oil, coconut sugar, coco coir, charcoal briquettes, innovative food and beverage creations, cosmetics, and eco-friendly packaging solutions. The 53 CFIDP-vetted and approved beneficiaries of the program participated in the event and received special tokens, reassuring them of the government’s commitment to uplifting the lives of Filipino coconut farmers and entrepreneurs.

Adding a festive touch to the event, a Christmas tree crafted entirely from coconut materials stood as a centerpiece, symbolizing the resilience, versatility, and enduring spirit of the Philippine coconut industry. This unique creation of the coconut palm as a ‘tree of life’ served as a powerful reminder of the industry's potential to bring prosperity and joy to the nation, particularly during the holiday season. It was adorned with Christmas ornaments bearing the names of the 14 implementing agencies, signifying their commitment to bring a brighter future to all Filipinos through the benefits of the CFIDP program.

"The COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is a testament to the collective effort of the government, farmers, and industry stakeholders to revitalize the Philippine coconut industry," said DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bonoan as head of the organizing team. "This event has successfully showcased the ingenuity and diversity of our coconut products, paving the way for increased market access and global recognition."

PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in driving the industry forward. "The success of this trade fair underscores the power of a unified approach in implementing the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP). By working together, we can unlock the full potential of the coconut sector and uplift the lives of our coconut farmers," he stated.

Key highlights of the COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair included:

• Debut of the COCONUTPhilippines Brand and CocoMania Mascots: The event marked the official launch of the COCONUTPhilippines brand, a unified brand identity designed to strengthen the global presence and competitiveness of Philippine coconut products. This brand will serve as a guarantee of quality, sustainability, and innovation, boosting consumer confidence and market penetration. At the same time, the introduction of the CocoMania mascots, CocoMania Buko and CocoMania Niyog, added a festive and engaging element to the launch, symbolizing the vibrancy and versatility of the coconut industry.

• Championing Sustainability and Innovation: The trade fair emphasized the industry's dedication to sustainable practices and innovative product development. Many exhibitors showcased eco-friendly products and cutting-edge technologies, demonstrating the sector's commitment to environmental responsibility and value creation.

• Facilitating Business Linkages and Market Access: The event fostered valuable business connections and networking opportunities, enabling local producers to engage with potential buyers, distributors, and investors from both domestic and international markets. This facilitated crucial partnerships and opened doors to new markets for Philippine coconut products.

• Generating Substantial Economic Impact: Initial assessments indicate that the trade fair generated significant interest and facilitated business deals, injecting a much-needed boost to the Philippine coconut industry and contributing to its overall growth and development.

The COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is a crucial component of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Program (CFIDP), mandated under Republic Act No. 11524, the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act. This comprehensive program, implemented through the collaborative efforts of 14 key agencies, underscores the government's commitment to revitalizing the coconut industry by empowering coconut farmers, diversifying income sources, expanding market reach, and alleviating poverty.

The resounding success of the inaugural COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair signals a promising future for the Philippine coconut industry. With heightened global recognition, enhanced market access, and sustained growth, the industry is poised to make significant contributions to the country's economic development and uplift the lives of millions of Filipinos.

For updates on the trade fair and other DTI initiatives, follow the DTI-BMDPO on social media. For inquiries, please contact Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.

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Travel smart this holiday season with Smart GigaRoam

Travel smart this holiday season with Smart GigaRoam

Whether you’re planning to spend a white Christmas in Tokyo or New York, enjoy a holiday shopping spree in Singapore or Dubai, or go on a nature trip in Bali or Bangkok, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) lets you stay connected and worry-free throughout your journey with Smart GigaRoam, its data-packed roaming service for prepaid and postpaid subscribers.

Here are three reasons why GigaRoam is a must for your holiday travels:

1. It’s Smooth: Book your Roaming Pack in Advance

Avoid last-minute travel hassles by purchasing your GigaRoam pack ahead of time. Much like how flights can be conveniently booked online nowadays, Smart enables you to choose and buy your preferred data roaming service, which will only activate as soon as you land on your destination.

This means no more scrambling at airports to search for ways to connect online, and no more stressing on whether there’s available connectivity options in your destination. With GigaRoam, you can set up your roaming even weeks before you leave home so you can focus on the joy of the season.

2. It’s Seamless: Stay Connected Non-Stop

From busy airports to picture-perfect destinations, GigaRoam lets you stay connected online so you can share your memorable moments on social media, check weather and flight updates in real time, and coordinate with your loved ones for last-minute pasa-buys or pasalubongs.

Moreover, you can enjoy 5G speeds with Smart’s 173 roaming partners in 92 destinations around the world, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

3. It’s Safe: Keep your Data Secure

By purchasing your GigaRoam pack, you avoid the risks associated to public WiFi or third-party apps, such as unauthorized access to your banking apps or social media accounts. You can enjoy peace of mind that your personal data and digital information are secure, wherever your holiday adventures take you.

Enjoy GigaRoam in two easy steps

To enjoy GigaRoam on your upcoming vacation, simply follow these two easy steps:

First, activate your roaming service by texting ROAM ON to 333 if you are a Prepaid subscriber, or by calling *888 if you are a postpaid subscriber.

Second, book your GigaRoam pack at https://gigaroam.smart.com.ph. Simply identify your destination and select the pack that suits your travel needs.

Travel smart this Christmas and experience a smooth, seamless, and safe journey with GigaRoam. To learn more, visit https://gigaroam.smart.com.ph.

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Glow From Within: The Secret to Radiant Skin with Idara Aesthetics' Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock

Glow From Within: The Secret to Radiant Skin with Idara Aesthetics' Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock

Achieving radiant, youthful skin goes beyond topical skincare—it starts from within. Idara Aesthetics, a trusted name in beauty and wellness, introduces its Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock, a revolutionary product that combines the power of glutathione, collagen, and sun protection in one convenient supplement.

What Makes Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock Unique?

Idara Aesthetics has redefined skincare by formulating a product that doesn’t just protect the skin but also enhances its natural beauty from the inside out. This innovative supplement is packed with carefully selected ingredients known for their proven benefits to skin health and overall wellness.

• L-Glutathione is a natural antioxidant that detoxifies the body, promotes cell repair, and helps reverse signs of aging. It also plays a key role in achieving a brighter, more even skin tone.

• Bovine Collagen works to restore skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and strengthen connective tissues such as cartilage and ligaments. It’s essential for maintaining a youthful, plump appearance.

• Oral Sunblock Properties provide an internal layer of sun protection, fortifying your skin’s defenses against harmful UV rays and reducing the risk of sun damage.

• Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola) offers intense hydration and anti-aging benefits while also helping to reduce stress and promote calmness, making it perfect for today’s fast-paced lifestyles.

Supporting Beauty and Wellness in Every Capsule

• The Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock goes beyond enhancing skin. Its comprehensive formula is designed to support overall health, ensuring you look and feel your best.

• Probiotics (Lactobacillus Acidophilus) help balance the gut microbiome, which is essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier and boosting immune function.

• Goji Berries are rich in antioxidants, supporting improved sleep, stress relief, and better overall skin health.

• Organic Chia Seeds provide a rich source of fiber and nutrients, promoting heart health, weight management, and a radiant glow.

• GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) aids in reducing anxiety and stress, helping you achieve not just healthy skin but a calm and balanced mind.

• Organic Tapioca hydrates the skin and hair, leaving them soft, smooth, and nourished.

The Convenience of Beauty From Within

Unlike traditional skincare products, the Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock offers a streamlined approach to achieving beautiful skin. By working internally, it provides benefits that topical creams cannot, addressing skin issues at their root and offering lasting results. With just a simple daily dose, you can protect your skin, enhance its resilience, and improve hydration.

Why Choose Idara Aesthetics?

Idara Aesthetics is committed to developing cutting-edge, science-backed solutions for modern skincare and wellness. Their Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock is the epitome of this commitment, offering a blend of powerful ingredients to promote skin vitality and overall health.

Available on popular platforms like Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, Idara Aesthetics makes it easy for you to take the first step toward enhancing your natural beauty.

sUnlock Your Glow Today

Idara Aesthetics' Glutathione + Collagen Oral Sunblock is more than just a skincare product—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. With its blend of premium ingredients and its ability to work from within, it’s the ultimate solution for those seeking radiant, youthful skin while supporting their overall wellness. Step into the world of Idara Aesthetics and discover a brighter, healthier you.

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Gifted with Joy: Holiday Gift-Shopping Season Starts Now with UNIQLO

Gifted with Joy: Holiday Gift-Shopping Season Starts Now with UNIQLO

UNIQLO sends season’s greetings through exciting promos, catchy holiday jingle, and more

UNIQLO celebrates the holiday season with a full slate of exciting news, including the launch of its catchy holiday jingle, the announcement of special offers, fresh collections, and festive activities.

UNIQLO’s newest jingle for the holiday season features Popstar Princess Sarah Geronimo, King of Christmas Carols Jose Mari Chan, and indie trendsetters Lola Amour, who collaborated together to create a jazzy and upbeat song that celebrates gifting and receiving gifts during the holidays.

“This year’s theme is “Gifted With Joy,” and through this we want our customers to really feel the spirit of happiness knowing they are both giving and receiving LifeWear – high-quality, versatile and timeless items that people of all ages can enjoy. We want UNIQLO to be a big part of Filipinos’ holiday season, being the go-to destination for thoughtful gifts to give to family, friends and loved ones,” said UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia.

UNIQLO has consistently made a big splash during the holiday season, establishing itself as the holiday gift-buying destination where people enjoy equally stylish and functional LifeWear items that become wardrobe staples. This love for LifeWear has also extended to celebrities such as Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Solenn Heussaff who vouch for the UNIQLO Bra Top collection’s style and functionality that feature built-in bra cups, noting the American Sleeve Bra Top with its sleek tank-top design as a standout gift for all women.

Meanwhile, Volleyball star Kim Kianna Dy attests to the UNIQLO Sport Utility Wear collection because of its versatility as all-day, all-activity clothing essentials, perfect for those practicing active lifestyles. In particular, the Ultra-Stretch DRY EX Hoodie, with its high-performance material that keeps the wearer dry at all times, and the AIRism mesh UV Hoodie that looks and feels cool with its breathable fabric and also protects the skin from harmful UV rays with UPF50+, are some of her favorites.

Plenty of customers also stand by the UNIQLO Miracle Air collection with its high-quality, lightweight items, perfect for casual to business go-getters. Particularly, the comfortable and versatile UNIQLO Miracle Air Jacket, which can go from casual to formal, as well as the Miracle Air Shorts that are stretchy and breathable, making it perfect for everyday casual wear.

Kids also have a say, as the stylish and cozy K’s AIRism Cotton T and K’s Color Crew Neck T are touted as versatile wardrobe staples.

With the diverse range of LifeWear offered that include UNIQLO Jeans, Linen, and Timeless Essentials, UNIQLO lives up to its name as the gift-buying destination for Filipinos this holiday season.

Gifted with Joy

True to its 2024 holiday theme of Gifted with Joy, UNIQLO is giving its customers plenty of opportunities to get their holiday gifting done with awesome new deals and promos to look out for across the ber months.

Holiday shoppers who missed out on the 11.11 Double Digit Mega Sale need not worry as UNIQLO has an upcoming 12.12 Double Digit Mega Sale which also promises the launch of the new PEANUTS and Pokemon UT collections. Enjoy online gifting service as well, to go with app-exclusive and all-store limited offers. There will also be a cashback promotion for Metrobank cardholders. The featured novelty item for the month is a phone stand with a card holder, while additional surprises are available for app members at the UNIQLO Manila Flagship Store in Glorietta 5 and UNIQLO Mall of Asia.

A Special Holiday Concert

To further celebrate the holiday season, UNIQLO also held a special concert that saw amazing performances from Jose Mari Chan, Sarah Geronimo and Lola Amour, culminating in the performance of the UNIQLO 2024 Holiday Jingle.

With these holiday treats, you'll surely find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Feel the holiday spirit with UNIQLO and learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear by checking out www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and following @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram.

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The next evolution in photo editing: Radiant Photo 2 is on its way!

The next evolution in photo editing: Radiant Photo 2 is on its way!

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Radiant Imaging Labs is pleased to announce the release of Radiant Photo 2, the latest evolution in photo editing software. Packed with smart features, advanced tools and powerful workflows, Radiant Photo 2 takes creativity and efficiency to the next level, making professional-quality results accessible to everyone.

"Photographers deserve tools that don’t just meet standards—they raise them," said Elia Locardi, CEO of Radiant Imaging Labs and professional photographer. "Radiant Photo 2 is designed to do exactly that. By intuitively understanding each photo—its lighting, subject, and background—it delivers results that are both precise and effortless. It’s more than editing software; it’s a tool built to empower photographers and creators to achieve their best work without compromise."

Radiant Photo’s interface is designed to simplify and enhance the editing process, providing photographers with a streamlined and efficient workflow.

AI with a purpose

Radiant Photo 2 uses Artificial Intelligence, but unlike other software, we do not use Generative AI. Our goal is simple: to make your existing pixels the best they can be while keeping you in complete control of your image. We ensure no personal data is transferred from the application to our company or the cloud. Every edit is processed locally on users’ devices, ensuring the fastest speed as well as privacy and security. We are committed to respecting intellectual property and artists and empowering our users with Assistive AI that enhances photographers’ creativity instead of replacing it.

Key Highlights of Radiant Photo 2

Intelligent scene detection for faster editing

The software automatically detects the type of scene—landscape, portrait or otherwise—and adjusts the image accordingly, directly after loading the image in Radiant Photo. For each scene it recognises, Radiant Photo 2 offers a unique selection of Develop Settings for different editing styles. Users can then delve deeper into this first editing step, using the professional editing tools and creative color grading tools to achieve the perfect image look.

Unique workflows

Radiant Photo 2 differentiates itself with optional workflows tailored to specific photography genres. The first four new workflows, portraiture, landscapes, pets, and birds, will be published with the release of Radiant Photo 2.

Portraiture Workflow: Includes 10-point skin tone detection, intelligent color-cast correction, and dedicated scenes for studio, environmental, group and outdoor portraits.

Landscape Workflow: Optimized tools for all landscape and cityscape scenes including waterfalls, mountains or golden- and blue-hour lighting conditions.

Bird Workflow: The world's first intelligent editing workflow dedicated to bird photography, with 94 intelligent scenes, recognizing different types of birds from hummingbirds to birds of prey, and perfectly adjusting each image.

Pet Workflow: Designed for photography of all types of pets, making it fast and easy to perfect photos of dogs, cats, horses, and more.

Each specialized workflow is extensively trained to recognize a variety of scenes, enabling more precise photo development based on the subject in the image.

Workflows include specific color correction and film emulation looks. Radiant Photo 2 combines speed with quality, using intelligent scene recognition to deliver precise edits quickly and effortlessly.

New portrait tools

Radiant Photo 2 introduces innovative portrait tools, including Face Light, a feature designed to naturally lighten faces. It mimics the effect of a professional softbox on set, enhancing portraits with soft, even lighting while maintaining a natural look and depth. Whether you're shooting professional headshots or casual portraits, Face Light ensures your subjects always look their best.

• Live Effects

Many editing tools today sacrifice image quality as they add more features. Radiant Photo 2, however, takes a different approach, preserving a truly non-destructive workflow while delivering superior results. Its advanced 16-bit live effects system ensures all tools work seamlessly together, providing consistent previews of adjustments and making it easy to revisit settings at any time. Unlike other software that often rasterizes images after masking, flattens them following major edits, or complicates reverting to basics like exposure after a black-and-white conversion, Radiant Photo keeps every adjustment fully editable. With Radiant Photo, you’re free to refine your edits whenever you need—no compromises.

• Advanced scene and color tools

Radiant Photo 2 opens up endless creative possibilities with enhanced color correction options such as selective color adjustments, split color warmth, and new film emulations.

• Customizable workspaces for a personalized experience

Radiant Photo 2 doesn’t overwhelm users with too many options. With its task-based workspaces, users only see the develop tools relevant for their image, while also allowing users to create custom layouts tailored to specific workflows.

Key features include

SoloToolMode: Automaticallycollapsesunusedtoolgroupstoreduce clutter.

FilterViews:Displaysonlytheactivetoolsfortheselectedworkspace.

Responsive interface:Dynamically adapts to user preferences for a streamlined editing experience.

• A completely non-destructive workflow for seamless editing 

Radiant Photo now includes sidecar file functionality, ensuring users never lose their creative adjustments. The software automatically saves all editing settings in a lightweight, XML-based sidecar file alongside the image. This allows users to reopen their photos in Radiant Photo at any time and continue editing exactly where they left off. Whether fine-tuning a previous project or exploring new creative directions, this feature enhances flexibility and streamlines the editing process for photographers and creators. In fact, you can even start editing right off a memory card and continue later where you left off.

• Smart Batch Export

The standalone application features a Smart Batch Export function, enabling users to process multiple images simultaneously while maintaining consistent quality—perfect for professional workflows. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly as a plug-in for Lightroom Classic, allowing batch processing directly from Lightroom catalogs for enhanced efficiency.

Who is Radiant Photo 2 for?

Radiant Photo 2 is designed for anyone who values exceptional photo editing—whether you're an amateur capturing everyday moments, a professional photographer working on high-profile projects, or a content creator looking to stand out.

Enthusiasts and beginners

Radiant Photo 2's guided workflows and non-destructive editing provide an easy-to-use entry point for everyone. Experiment with confidence, knowing you can always return to your original image. While beginners will especially value how Radiant Photo enhances each image automatically, enthusiasts love the ability to adjust everything to their liking.

Professional Photographers

Precision and efficiency are at the heart of Radiant Photo 2. With tools like intelligent scene detection, customizable workflows, and the new Face Light feature, professionals can effortlessly polish their shots and save valuable editing time. Use it to get a head-start on your photos directly out of camera or as a finishing tool at the end of your edit. Radiant Photo’s ability to preserve the black and white points and its 16-bit workflow ensures that edits come out print-ready.

Content Creators

For influencers and marketers, Radiant Photo 2 provides an intuitive yet powerful solution for enhancing images for social media, websites and campaigns. Features such as Color Grading with retro filters and film emulations make it easier than ever to create eye-catching content. Options like the enhanced graduated filters and the new Face Light tool help to achieve a more professional look.

Availability, compatibility, languages and pricing

Radiant Photo 2 will first become available to current customers by the end of November. This will be followed by a public beta in December.

It runs as standalone software on Windows and macOS. It can also be used as a native plugin inside Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic and Corel PaintShop Pro.

Radiant Photo supports the following languages: English, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Dutch and Spanish.

Special Introductory Offer for the Philippines (Limited-Time Only):

Radiant Photo 2 (Core): USD 49 Annual Subscription

Workflow: USD 49 per workflow, one-time purchase

(Regular price: USD 89)

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Sip the Season’s Warmth With 7-Eleven’s City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate

Sip the Season’s Warmth With 7-Eleven’s City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate

Monday, December 09, 2024

It’s even merrier with holiday-themed cups for the whole City Cafe and City Prima product lineup!

There’s nothing like Christmas in the Philippines. A truly Paskong Pinoy is about celebrating life’s simple joys with friends and family. Dedicated to always bringing a sense of comfort to the community, 7-Eleven is fostering that hearty feeling of togetherness this holiday season with sweet sips to make the yuletide merry and bright.

As the air fills with the warmth of the season, 7-Eleven delights everyone with the arrival of a Filipino holiday staple, the hot chocolate. Serving this decadent drink is a long-held local tradition lovingly made by homemakers and shared with loved ones during Christmas.

Now, everyone can soak in the magic of the season anytime and anywhere with the City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate. Starting at just P35, this warm and cozy drink is made to bring back memories of cheerful Christmas mornings while gathered at home. Creamy and chocolatey, it’s the perfect drink to wind down within the midst of the holiday rush; a complementary partner to their newly launched holiday classics, 7-Fresh Bibingka and Puto Bumbong; or an indulgent treat after simbang gabi with the family.

To truly usher in December, this release is accompanied by the launch of 7-Eleven’s annual holiday cups. Each year, everyone’s paboritong kapitbahay ups the festive fun with special designs that embody the yuletide spirit. This 2024 is no different as the City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate and other City Cafe and City Prima drinks are wrapped in the scenes and colors of Christmas, so every purchase of their favorite beverage will remind them that the most wonderful time of the year is truly here. The holiday cups are available for a limited time only.

The City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate along with other City Cafe and City Prima drinks in their special holiday cups are now in stores nationwide. Visit one today and bond with loved ones to sip the season’s warmth at 7-Eleven.

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

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Boehringer Ingelheim Marks the Holidays by Having Filipinos’ Kidneys CheCKD

Boehringer Ingelheim Marks the Holidays by Having Filipinos’ Kidneys CheCKD

Saturday, December 07, 2024

Boehringer Ingelheim encourages Filipinos to take care of their health this holiday season

The second leg of the ‘It Starts With U: Get CheCKD’ brings back Check Your Choices Game Room, a life-sized board game designed to educate participants about kidney function and effective ways to maintain kidney health, combining fun with an engaging learning experience.

As the festive season kicks off in the Philippines, Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), Inc., in partnership with Dialysis Philippines Support Group (Dialysis PH), Kidney Transplant Association of the Philippines (KITAP), and Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO), welcomed the return of It Starts With U: Get CheCKD on November 30, 2024, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

This awareness event came at a crucial time when holiday festivities often lead to overconsumption of rich foods and alcohol, late nights, and heightened stress. It emphasized the importance of prioritizing health amidst the celebrations. It Starts With U: Get CheCKD raised awareness about chronic kidney disease (CKD) through engaging activity zones, focusing on the significance of early detection and the increased risks posed by hypertension and diabetes.

Chronic Kidney Disease is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines. This disease indicates that your kidneys are damaged and not functioning properly. Kidneys filter out waste, toxins, and excess water from your blood. They also play a vital role in maintaining bone health and producing red blood cells. When kidney function begins to decline, they are unable to effectively filter waste, leading to a buildup of these harmful substances in your bloodstream.

CKD is intricately linked to other health issues, such as hypertension and diabetes. During the holiday season, when dietary indulgences are common, the risk of developing these interconnected conditions increases. High blood pressure can strain the kidneys, while uncontrolled blood sugar from diabetes can damage blood vessels, further elevating the risk of CKD. ,

It Starts With U: Get CheCKD conducted two educational talks by nephrologists, Dr. Rhodora Valenzona from the Perpetual Help Medical Center Binan, and Dr. Clifton Pe from the University of Sto. Tomas (USTH) and De Los Santos Medical Center. Attended by Dr. Greta Cortez, the head of medicine at Boehringer Ingelheim; Rey Abacan Jr., president and founder of Dialysis PH; Marimel Lamsin, the internal vice president of the Kidney Transplant Association of the Philippines, Inc.; and Karen Alparce-Villanueva, the president of the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations. These talks were designed to get mall goers into the holiday spirit by gifting themselves the knowledge of good health. Directly learning from health experts about chronic kidney disease and its connection to heart, kidney, and metabolic wellness, attendees were empowered to make informed choices for a healthier holiday season and beyond.

"Events like It Starts With U: Get CheCKD are crucial because they bring essential health information directly to the community. This season of giving, we hope to gift people the awareness and resources they need, as early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) can make all the difference—especially with its strong links to heart disease and diabetes. By empowering people with knowledge and access to consultation and screening, we’re helping them take that first step toward the gift of better health," says Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine at Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.

This edition of It Starts With U: Get CheCKD featured new booths focused on heart health and type 2 diabetes. A booth was set up where Boehringer Ingelheim featured their educational website to empower individuals with information about chronic kidney disease (CKD) and related health conditions. It offers valuable insights on prevention, risk factors, and complications, encouraging patients to take proactive steps toward better health and seek professional care when needed. All the activities highlighted the importance of adopting healthy habits to prevent CKD.

The Health CheCKD Zone remains steadfast with offering guests the opportunity to have one-on-one consultations with doctors. The doctors checked their vitals, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. Those who were determined to be at risk for CKD had the chance to avail the free two-step screening process for kidney health.

Check Your Choices, a life-sized board game, continues to capture attention as a fun, interactive way to learn about kidney health and care.

Check your kidney health

There is a simple 2-step screening process to check kidney health. First is the creatine test, a blood test that is able to measure the waste product of the body and from that the estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) rate can be computed. The second is the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test that uses a urine sample to measure albumin, or protein level present in your urine.

With the season of giving and togetherness upon us, there’s no better gift than good health. This holiday season, give yourself and your loved ones the gift of wellness by monitoring kidney health, heart health, and blood sugar levels to keep your body in optimal shape. Make regular visits to your doctor a part of your holiday checklist—it’s a meaningful way to celebrate this Christmas and beyond.

For more information, please visit ItStartsWithYou.com.ph

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Homecooked-Style Meals for Heartwarming Holiday Celebrations

Homecooked-Style Meals for Heartwarming Holiday Celebrations

Perfectly cooked fluffy riced with generous chunks of vegetables, meat, and seafood makes Chef Lolit's famous paella the highlight of any gathering

A time for joy, a time for peace, a time for sharing, the holidays bring loved ones together to celebrate and enjoy as they look back on the memories they’ve made while looking forward to making new ones in the year ahead. Preparing for holiday celebrations can be both fun and challenging, hence, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure that you get to focus more time on enjoying rather than worrying if you have already prepared everything.

Food is always the highlight of any gathering, which everyone looks forward to. Save time in food preparations and celebrate the holidays with delicious, hearty comfort meals, lovingly prepared by 12F Kitchen.

From packed meals, party platters, and desserts, Chef Lolit Tolosa and her team have you covered.

A love for cooking

At a time filled with uncertainty, Chef Lolit started making comfort food in her apartment on the 12th floor of her condominium building. From baked treats like fudgy brownies to hearty dishes like beef salpicao, she was able to make a challenging situation more bearable through her creativity in the kitchen. As she delighted her family with delicious home cooked meals, Chef Lolit Tolosa was encouraged to start offering her specialties like gambas al ajillo, Iberian chicken, and of course, her famous beef salpicao, to friends, relatives, and eventually the public through online orders.

As everyone was quarantined at home, Chef Lolit’s sharing trays and packed meals gave her customers a sense of normalcy as they are able to continue enjoying delicious food conveniently and affordably and share it with their loved ones.

Once life went back to “normal”, Chef Lolit briefly had a stint manning the kitchen of a local hotel, but the call to be an entrepreneur was too strong for her to resist and eventually decided to focus all her attention on growing 12F Kitchen, this time partnering with fellow foodie and entrepreneur, and coincidentally, former hotelier and cabin crew, Che Manalang, who works on marketing 12F Kitchen.

“I really love cooking, nothing gives me more joy than being able to make people happy through my food. My friends and family really encouraged me to take my chances and open my own restaurant. After years in the hospitality industry, even before the pandemic, my experience crafting different dishes enabled me to come up with my own recipes for popular comfort food dishes. This is why you’ll see a wide range of menu items. We’re not just catering to those who like Asian dishes, there’s also a good variety of Western dishes in our restaurant, that I personally prepare with my lovely staff.” said Chef Lolit .

Sharing the joy of 12F

Admittedly, while she’s the queen of the kitchen, Chef Lolit needed a hand in being able to get the good word out about 12F Kitchen. Initially she relied on good word of mouth from her relatives, friends, and customers who posted about her food on social media, but as she set her sights on really growing her business, Chef Lolit tapped Che to help her come up with effective marketing strategies.

“The first time I tried Chef Lolit dishes, especially the paella, which was so flavorful with perfectly cooked rice and tender chunks of meat and vegetables, the pumpkin bisque, which is very creamy and tasty, and her take on burnt cheesecake, which is truly decadent, it was an easy choice for me to join her and the rest of the team at 12F Kitchen. As I’ve been an entrepreneur myself, even during my time working in the hospitality and aviation industries, I have a good understanding of what people like. From being an online business, we opened our very own restaurant in Makati, so we can also serve the busy office crowd and the local residents whether they prefer to dine in or to have their food delivered. That’s not to say that we only cater to those in the Makati area, of course our kitchen is also open for pick up orders and deliveries. Thus, our menu has options for solo orders as well as party platters for big groups.” said Che.

Indulge in festive favorites

For the upcoming holiday celebrations, Chef Lolit and Che invites everyone to try 12F Kitchen’s variety of party trays and platters that make it easier for them to enjoy their home or office get togethers. For soups and starters, 12F Kitchen offers molo, pumpkin bisque, gambas, and nachos, which, according to Chef Lolit are all very straightforward as she prefers to stick to traditional recipes but what makes 12F Kitchen’s version is its hearty, home cooked take on these popular dishes. For pasta options, they offer creamy carbonara and bolognese linguine pasta, and for house specialties, there’s beef salpicao, crispy pork belly, and Iberian chicken. Customers should not miss 12F Kitchen’s selection of desserts, burnt cheesecake, brownie, and polvoron to make their celebrations, not just this holiday season, sweeter.

To know more about Kitchen 12F, you may follow @12FKitchen on Facebook and Instagram. You may also visit them at D’Arcade Food Park, GF Unit 05, 7433 Yakal Street, Barangay San Antonio, Makati City, Makati, Philippines or send them an email through 12fkitchen@gmail.com for inquiries and orders.

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12.12 Joy of Shopping: Discover Unique UNIQLO Deals In-store and Online

12.12 Joy of Shopping: Discover Unique UNIQLO Deals In-store and Online

Friday, December 06, 2024

UNIQLO celebrates 12.12 with special deals in-store and online, along with exclusive UNIQLO App offers and benefits for its members

UNIQLO dials up the holiday shopping frenzy with its special deals and exciting offers in celebration of one of the biggest sale dates of the year, 12.12.

While UNIQLO has already fully established itself as the go-to holiday shopping destination, there are even more reasons to shop your favorite LifeWear items in-store and online this 12.12. Enjoy exclusive discounts, freebies, and more that get you in true holiday shopping spirit.

Online shopping with the UNIQLO App brings more than convenience during this season of giving. For every minimum purchase of P3,500, UNIQLO App members get a free stylish and versatile phone stand with card holder. All that’s needed is to place orders online from December 6 to 12, and select Click & Collect as the delivery method.

If you haven’t yet, now is the best time to sign up for the UNIQLO App. Downloading and registering for the first time will give you a P300 coupon, which can be used online or at any UNIQLO Store on the next order with a minimum purchase of P3,000. Being a member also grants you extra gifts at UNIQLO events. Play a virtual game and win exciting UNIQLO novelty items at the UNIQLO App Hunt from December 6 to 12 at UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia and UNIQLO SM Aura. Meanwhile, watch, shop, and win prizes during the Mega Live Station on December 12 from 6pm to 8pm. The event will also feature special guests Jaz Reyes and Richard Juan.

Aside from prizes and freebies, skip the line and receive items where you want through the UNIQLO App. The Click & Collect delivery method comes with free shipping, wherein orders are delivered to the nominated store instead of home address, without additional charges. The UNIQLO App’s Collect service is available in all UNIQLO stores nationwide.

What’s more, get the right sizes of your online purchases every time with the UNIQLO App’s new MySize Assist function. The feature allows you to find your recommended size easier based on a size chart and length guide based on height. Another option is to measure your body with a camera scan for more accurate sizing. Moreover, UNIQLO App offers extra sizes up to 3XL.

It’s also easier to gift this holiday season with UNIQLO’s Online Gift Service. Order presents for your loved ones online, and have them delivered straight to their doorstep. For only PHP190 pesos, you can have your items delivered in a UNIQLO Gift Bag. It can serve as an additional present that your recipient can use again and again. The gift bag also comes with a free personalized card that lets your recipients know how much they mean to you.

As part of UNIQLO’s 12.12 deals, crowd-favorite items are on limited offer from December 6 to 12, 2024. Here are some of the deals customers can look forward to in all stores and online.

DRY-EX Short Sleeve Polo Shirt: now Php 790 from Php 990

Chino Shorts (Relaxed Fit): now Php 990 from Php 1,290

Linen Blend Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt: now Php 790 from Php 990

Chino Shorts: now Php 990 from Php 1,290

GIRLS Sanrio Characters Cropped Short Sleeve UT: now Php 390 from Php 590

KIDS Pocketable UV Protection Parka: now Php 990 from Php 1,490

Download the UNIQLO App and shop exclusive 12.12 deals in-store and online. Turn on your notifications and be the first to know about promos and news. Learn more about #UniqloPH and #LifeWear by checking out www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/. Follow @uniqlo on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram to get all the latest news and updates.

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