realme Launches Exclusive Camera Control Button, Outpacing Global Competitors


The innovative design is poised to revolutionize the industry, elevating the mobile photography experience to a whole new level

realme, the world’s fastest-growing smartphone brand, unveiled its Camera Control Button last August 14, ahead of its global competitors, making it a pioneer among other tech brands in conceptualizing the dedicated camera button designed to revolutionize mobile photography. 

realme's Vice President and Global Marketing President, Chase Xu, recently gave fans an exciting sneak peek of the new Camera Control button on social media, using a demo realme unit to showcase its features.

In the video, Xu demonstrated how seamlessly the Camera Control button works, highlighting its intuitive design. With just a simple slide, users can adjust the focal length, while a quick press turns the button into a shutter, making it easier than ever to capture stunning photos.

A Camera Control Button That's Ahead of the Curve

The Camera Control button highlights realme’s focus on innovative design, setting trends in the smartphone industry. It offers an intuitive and user-friendly experience for controlling camera functions. 

The solid-state Camera Control button delivers precise control. Users can effortlessly slide the button to adjust focus or exposure, significantly enhancing shooting efficiency. Enjoy intuitive touch controls that enable instant zoom and quick shots, turning your phone into a professional camera designed for smooth and easy use. 

With the Camera Control button, realme is making pro-level camera experience more accessible than ever. 

Groundbreaking Innovations 

Apart from the Camera Control Button, realme continues to lead smartphone innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries in AI, performance, and imaging technology as seen on the realme GT 6 and realme 13 Pro Series 5G.

At realme's Cool Tech Event last August, the brand introduced its cutting-edge 320W SuperSonic Charge, capable of fully powering up a device in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds. This revolutionary charging technology set a new industry standard for speed and convenience, reshaping how people think about fast mobile charging.

realme has also pioneered a unique Anti-Reflective Smartphone Display that reduces screen glare by up to 80 percent, offering a paper-like texture for comfortable viewing, even under bright sunlight. This feature enhances outdoor visibility, allows users to lower brightness levels, and extends battery life.

When it comes to imaging, there's AI Motion Picture powered by realme NEXT AI, which transforms a single image into a dynamic 25-frame video—breathing life into memories and reviving still moments into vivid stories.

For gaming enthusiasts, realme raises the bar with AI Gaming Super Resolution, which leverages on-device AI to deliver smooth, crystal-clear visuals while reducing processor load.

The enhanced 4D Game Vibration provides customizable haptic feedback for over 100 in-game actions, from gunfire to footsteps. Paired with realme Holo Audio, gamers can adjust sound positioning, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay even during calls.

realme’s relentless commitment to innovation is evident in its pursuit of cutting-edge technologies that exceed user expectations. From ultra-fast charging to advanced camera and gaming features, realme is dedicated to leading the industry and setting new benchmarks.

To stay updated on realme’s latest announcements, head over to the official realme Facebook page and website.

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Landers Superstore Partners with Paywatch to Launch Earned Wage Access for Employees

Landers Earned Wage Access Program

Landers Superstore, the fastest-growing membership retail chain in the Philippines, has announced an exciting partnership with Paywatch, Asia's leading Earned Wage Access (EWA) provider. This collaboration introduces on-demand pay as a core benefit for Landers employees, marking the first time a supermarket in the Philippines has implemented EWA. This move aligns with Landers' commitment to employee retention and financial wellness.

Landers' Earned Wage Access Program: A Key Employee Benefit

As part of its initiative to boost employee satisfaction and productivity, Landers launched the EWA program at its Central Office, Otis, and Alabang branches during its pilot phase. The company plans to expand this financial benefit nationwide. The Earned Wage Access program allows employees to access a portion of their salary before payday, giving them more flexibility to manage daily expenses and emergencies, while reducing dependence on high-interest loans.

By introducing EWA, Landers underscores its commitment to promoting financial wellness for employees, helping them handle unexpected financial challenges while enhancing overall job satisfaction.

Financial Wellness: A Priority for Landers Superstore

A 2022 Employee Financial Wellness Survey by PwC found that 76% of employees experienced reduced productivity due to financial stress, and 55% admitted that financial worries distracted them at work. In response, Landers is prioritizing its workforce’s financial well-being through the EWA program, empowering employees to manage their finances more effectively.

Unlike payday loans, EWA offers employees access to their earned wages with no hidden fees or interest. This debt-free solution helps avoid financial pitfalls and promotes long-term stability, making it one of the most affordable employee benefits available in the retail sector.

"Our employees are the cornerstone of Landers’ success," said Reynald Lapan, Chief Human Resources Officer of Landers. "By offering on-demand pay, we aim to alleviate financial stress, allowing our team to focus on providing exceptional service. Our partnership with Paywatch enables us to achieve this goal."

Paywatch: Supporting Financial Inclusion in the Philippines

Through its partnership with Paywatch, Landers ensures a trusted and secure Earned Wage Access solution. Paywatch is the only bank-backed, regulator-approved EWA provider in the region, recognized by the United Nations and central banks for its contributions to financial inclusion and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards.

Since its launch in the Philippines in 2023, Paywatch has experienced a 150% increase in interest from local companies. Businesses such as Pick-A-Roo, Kuya J, Wilmar International, and Lay Bare have adopted Paywatch’s EWA solution, highlighting the growing demand for financial wellness programs.

Rowell Del Fierro, President of Paywatch Philippines, emphasized the program's impact on employee retention, stating, "Our partnership with Landers demonstrates how EWA can solve recruitment and retention challenges in the retail industry. With voluntary turnover rates in the Philippines reaching 15.9% in 2023, EWA provides a valuable solution for retaining top talent."
Setting a New Standard in Employee Benefits

Landers Superstore is revolutionizing the retail industry by offering Earned Wage Access as a key employee benefit. This partnership with Paywatch not only improves financial security for employees but also boosts productivity and morale, setting a new benchmark for employee benefits in the Philippines.

For more information about Paywatch and its solutions, visit Paywatch Global.
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Shopee Mall Achieves Impressive Growth as Leading Brands and Newcomers Prepare for 10.10 Brands Festival

Shopee 10.10 Brands Summit

As the Philippines embraces the digital shopping revolution, Shopee is at the forefront, helping brands expand their reach and achieve sustained growth. Powered by Shopee Mall's innovative platform features, Shopee offers a seamless shopping experience that strengthens brand connections and fosters customer loyalty.

Celebrating Shopee Mall’s Growth and Expansion

At the inaugural Shopee Brands Summit, the e-commerce platform revealed a 20% increase in orders on Shopee Mall, its premium space for brand owners and authorized distributors. Shopee Mall provides a dedicated platform where users can discover authentic, high-quality products from top brands, easily identified by a distinct label.

Since its launch in 2017, Shopee Mall has added renowned brands like L’Oreal, PUMA, Nintendo, and KIKO Milano to its growing roster. With exclusive deals and exciting product launches planned for the upcoming 10.10 Brands Festival, Shopee Mall remains the go-to destination for Filipino shoppers looking for the best in online retail.

Building Trust and Driving Brand Growth

With millions of users visiting daily, Vincent Lee, Head of Shopee Philippines, emphasized that Shopee Mall opens up new opportunities for brands to thrive in the digital age.

“Shopee Mall helps brands build lasting relationships with our users by providing a trusted platform where both can succeed. We are committed to empowering brands to enhance their presence and deliver outstanding shopping experiences,” said Lee.


Product authenticity is critical for Shopee Mall, with 77% of Shopee users in the Philippines considering it the most important feature. Shopee requires brands to undergo rigorous verification and offers a money-back guarantee, ensuring every product is 100% authentic. The extended 15-day return and refund policy adds further reassurance for buyers.

Shopee Mall also recently updated its interface to improve product discoverability and deliver a seamless checkout experience, helping brands strengthen their connections with customers.

Bringing the Best Brands Closer to Filipino Shoppers

Shopee's dedication to enhancing the online shopping experience has attracted a diverse user base and positioned the platform as a key partner for brand growth. Successful collaborations with brands like PUMA and Nintendo highlight how Shopee's tools and support help businesses thrive.


Since partnering with Shopee, PUMA has seen substantial growth in visibility and customer engagement. Tools like Shopee Live have enabled the brand to reach a broader audience and achieve exponential sales growth. 


Similarly, Nintendo's official store on Shopee, launched in November 2023, has quickly become one of the platform's top gaming brands, leveraging Shopee Live and other features to engage with local gamers.

Building a Thriving Community with Shopee

Shopee's innovative features, such as Shopee Video and Shopee Live, offer brands new ways to engage with customers through interactive content. These tools allow shoppers to get a closer look at products and boost buyer confidence.

“Shopee is committed to creating an environment where users can shop with confidence,” said Lee. “Our wide selection of trusted brands and innovative features make Shopee Mall a hub for brands to unlock growth potential while providing secure, convenient, and enjoyable shopping experiences.”

Don’t miss out on exclusive deals from brands like HP, GOMO, and more at the Shopee 10.10 Brands Festival from September 30 to October 10!
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Bring studio-quality lighting to your fingertips with vivo V40's AI Aura Light

vivo V40's AI Aura Light

The vivo V40 is redefining mobile portrait photography with the introduction of AI Aura Light Portrait and AI 3D Studio Lighting, offering users professional-grade lighting features to capture standout portraits, especially in challenging lighting environments. 

In low-light or backlit scenarios, the V40 enhances every shot with studio-quality illumination, adding depth and dimension to each portrait.

AI Aura Light: Brighter, softer, smarter lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in portrait photography, and vivo V40’s AI Aura Light is designed to deliver optimal results. 

The upgraded Aura Light on the V40 provides a 33% increase in brightness compared to its predecessor, offering softer, more natural lighting. 


The intelligent electronic dimming technology automatically adjusts the brightness to match different portrait settings, ensuring your subject always looks clear and well-lit, even in dim or nighttime conditions.

This studio-quality Aura Light works seamlessly with all focal lengths, so whether you’re capturing close-ups or full-body shots, the result is consistently sharp and bright. 

Say goodbye to harsh flashes and welcome softer, more flattering light that enhances every detail of your portraits.

AI 3D Studio Lighting: Perfect lighting, anytime, anywhere

In addition to the Aura Light, the vivo V40 comes equipped with AI 3D Studio Lighting, a feature designed to provide precise and natural fill light. 

Using advanced AI algorithms, it conducts 3D facial light recognition analysis, adding virtual fill light to shadowed areas. 

The feature ensures that portraits taken in low light or backlit environments maintain their depth and clarity, giving your images a three-dimensional quality that’s perfect for both day and night.

With AI 3D Studio Lighting, the vivo V40 effortlessly enhances the brightness and softness of your portraits, bringing out natural tones and details that make every photo stand out.

AI Aura Light meets ZEISS Style Portrait for stunning results

The vivo V40 doesn’t just offer incredible lighting on its own—it takes portrait photography to another level when paired with ZEISS Style Portrait. 

By combining the AI Aura Light with vivo’s ZEISS Style Portrait mode, users can capture professional-looking photos with iconic ZEISS lens effects, such as natural bokeh and sharp foregrounds.


The AI Aura Light provides the perfect balance of brightness and softness, ensuring that the ZEISS Style Portrait mode creates stunning portraits with enhanced clarity and texture. 

Snapping a casual selfie or capturing a memorable moment, this combination delivers DSLR-quality shots straight from your phone.

Experience studio-quality lighting with vivo V40 now!

With its AI Aura Light Portrait, AI 3D Studio Lighting, and seamless integration with ZEISS Style Portrait, the vivo V40 is the best tool for capturing professional-quality photos right from your smartphone. 

In low-light settings or when capturing backlit portraits, the V40 ensures each image is perfectly lit, sharp, and ready to stand out on social media.

For those looking to enhance their portrait photography, the vivo V40 provides all the tools you need to make every moment picture-perfect at a starting price of Php 26,999.

Now available for purchase in vivo concept stores and kiosks nationwide or online via vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada.


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Naturally yours, Tang Fruit+: Tang introduces zero sugar variant


For decades, Tang has been making mealtimes more delicious, more refreshing, and more exciting with its wide range of fruity flavors. It is a staple in every Filipino home, enjoyed by all members of the family. 

Now, Tang is introducing another variant that is sure to be a hit among consumers looking to enjoy a glass of their favorite Tang orange juice—without the added sugar!

Introducing Tang Fruit+, an orange-flavored instant drink mix naturally sweetened with Stevia. It has no added sugar and offers the same delicious, refreshing real fruit taste of Tang, which Filipinos throughout generations have known and loved. 


“Tang Fruit+ is a testament of the enduring relationship we have with our customers, providing them flavorful choices that align with their evolving lifestyle needs,” said Sam Dela Cruz, Senior Brand Manager of Tang Philippines. “With Tang Fruit+, they get to enjoy a delicious, refreshing drink that satisfies not only their taste buds, but also their preference for a sugar-free alternative since it is naturally sweetened with Stevia.”

Stevia is a plant-derived, all-natural sweetener commonly used as a substitute for table sugar. Despite it being sweet like sugar, it does not affect one’s sugar levels.

“Stevia comes from a plant called Stevia rebaudiana, also known as sweetleaf,” explained Dra. Imelda Angeles-Agdeppa, Scientist IV and Professional Regulation Commission Board Member for Nutrition and Dietetics. “It is a popular, science-backed sugar alternative that can sweeten virtually all types of food and beverages. It is a great option for natural-origin sweetness.”

“The launch of Tang Fruit+ is in line with our Mindful Snacking Strategy, which aims to provide consumers not just delicious food and beverage options, but also products that has less sugar, has been fortified with vitamins and minerals, and using more whole grains, among others – all while continuing to deliver delightful brand experiences,” shared Caitlin Punzalan, Corporate & Government Affairs Lead for Mondelez Philippines.

Enjoy your favorite Tang orange juice drink without the added sugar with Tang Fruit+. Available in all leading groceries and supermarkets nationwide for a suggested retail price (SRP) of only Php 25. Customers can also buy Tang Fruit+ online via official Mondelez PH stores in Lazada and Shopee. For more information, visit Tang Philippines’ official Facebook page.

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Discover the realme C Series: Affordable Smartphones for Young Professionals

 

The realme C Series is crafted to deliver both style and functionality, making it an ideal choice for young professionals. Packed with powerful features, this series, which includes the realme C61, C63, and C65, offers an unbeatable blend of performance, durability, and affordability. Whether for work or play, the realme C Series has something for everyone.

Why Choose the Realme C Series?

In the fast-paced world of young professionals, having the right smartphone is crucial for staying connected and productive. The realme C Series meets these needs by offering premium features at budget-friendly prices. From managing work tasks to unwinding with games or streaming, these smartphones are designed to keep up with the demands of everyday life.

Realme C61: Massive Storage and Long-Lasting Durability

For professionals juggling multiple files and apps, the realme C61 is the perfect choice. With two storage variants—6GB+128GB and 8GB+256GB—and full Dynamic RAM Expansion (DRE), users can enjoy smooth multitasking and ample space for documents and media. Its 5000mAh battery is built to last, offering up to 4 years of dependable performance, ensuring your phone stays reliable through long workdays.

Key Features:Available in Sparkle Gold and Dark Green.

6GB RAM + 128GB storage priced at P6,999.
8GB RAM + 256GB storage priced at P7,999.

Realme C63: Built for Professionals On-the-Go

The realme C63 is designed for young professionals with busy, mobile lifestyles. Its weatherproof build and 45W SUPERVOOC fast-charging battery make it a durable companion for long days on the move. Whether you're commuting or working outdoors, the C63 ensures you stay connected and productive no matter where you are.

Key Features:Available in Leather Blue and Jade Green. Priced at P8,999 SRP.

Realme C65: The Perfect Balance of Work and Play

For those who want both productivity and entertainment, the realme C65 is a powerhouse. Featuring a MediaTek Helio G85 gaming processor and Multi-Mode Antenna technology, this phone handles both heavy work applications and after-hours gaming with ease. Its support for dual nano SIM cards also ensures seamless connectivity, making it perfect for managing both work and personal life.

Key Features:Available in Starlight Purple and Starlight Black. Priced at P9,999.

Where to Buy the Realme C Series

The realme C Series is now available in stores across the Philippines. With its stylish design and professional-grade features, it’s a great investment for young professionals looking to balance work, life, and play. Visit your nearest realme store today to experience the C Series and find the model that best suits your needs.
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Young Spellers Showcase Talent at SM Super Spelling Bee in SM City Masinag

SM Super Spelling Bee

The excitement was palpable at the SM Super Spelling Bee preliminary round held at SM City Masinag on September 27. The mall atrium buzzed with energy as bright young minds from Grades 4-6 took center stage, representing schools from Antipolo City and Marikina City. Each contestant battled for a coveted spot in the Grand Finals, showcasing their spelling prowess through both oral and written rounds.

Queencess Milado

After an intense competition, Queencess Milado, a talented 6th grader from Antipolo Immaculate Conception School, triumphed as the top speller. Her exceptional performance secured her a place in the Grand Finals, where she will proudly represent SM City Masinag.

The competition heats up on October 11, when the students of Marikina City face off in their own preliminary round at SM City Marikina. The winner will join Queencess and other finalists from various SM Malls at the Grand Finals, to be held at the iconic SM Mall of Asia.

The Grand Winner of the SM Super Spelling Bee will walk away with an impressive array of prizes, including P50,000 in cash, SM Gift Certificates, P150,000 worth of National Book Store Gift Certificates, P10,000 in Jollibee Gift Certificates, a brand-new laptop from Power Mac Center, and discounted tuition from National University.

With so much at stake and incredible talent on display, the SM Super Spelling Bee promises to be an unforgettable celebration of young academic excellence.
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Lightness in Protection Uniqlo U 2024 Fall/Winter Collection Launches September 27


Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of the Uniqlo U 2024 Fall/Winter collection, starting September 27th. Co-Artistic Directors Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, alongside their team in Paris designed the collection offering a versatile and clean wardrobe, with a focus on layering, movement, and play.

Adaptable and refined items are designed with daily motion and future classics in mind. A muted, but playful palette features neutrals that play with gradation—moving from rich, dark chocolate browns to lighter, smoother camels and khakis. Fusing functionality with form, everyday use with specialty items, Uniqlo U sets the standard for simplicity and style.

Utility Wear

The men’s and women’s designers worked together to create a concise line of utility wear such as the Oversized Single-Breasted Coat and the Coating Long Coat equipped with hoods, both coats can be worn in the case of sudden light rain.

Knitwear Design

Look out for two pieces of notable knitwear in 2024 Fall/Winter: the Lambswool Knit Jacket and the Lambswool Blend Zip Up Jacket, both of which are extremely soft, comfortable, and versatile. Can be worn as a middle or outer layer, depending on weather and personal style. 

Versatility Always 

Once again versatility comes first for Uniqlo U. This season silhouette was created holistically and should inspire layering and experimenting with color, texture, and material. Whether worn together or alone, every garment from this collection was built with function and style top of mind. 

Stylings


Collection

The lineup includes 10 items for women, 13 items for men, and 2 items for accessories, however the majority of the collection is designed to be genderless.

Lineup and Pricing


Note: The above prices are provisional and subject to change

Special Website: 

UNIQLO R&D Centers

Uniqlo U is a collection of “Future LifeWear Essentials.” Led by Co-Artistic Directors Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, the world-class designers and patternmakers in the Paris design team reimagine everyday clothing using innovative materials and new, contemporary silhouettes. Each season is designed with the highest precision and in pursuit of a simplified, modern wardrobe. UNIQLO R&D Centers are places for experimentation, spaces to try new ideas, innovate and create. The Paris R&D Center complements other UNIQLO R&D Centers in cities all across the globe.
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vivo V40 breaks Sales Records with 8x revenue growth on day one


vivo is celebrating a record-breaking launch as the vivo V40 soared past expectations on its first day on September 28, 2024. Sales figures show an incredible 7.58x increase in quantity and an 8.20x jump in value compared to its predecessor, the vivo V30. 

Available in vivo concept stores, kiosks, and dealer stores nationwide, the vivo V40 starts at Php 26,999. 

Customers who pre-ordered the vivo V40 from September 17 to 27 also rushed to stores to claim their device with a TWS 3e worth Php 1,999 as a freebie. They were able to buy the vivo V40 with a Php 2,000 discount from the original price.

The vivo V40 is also accessible on major e-commerce platforms like Shopee, where it secured the top spot in sales and gross merchandise value (GMV) for its price segment under Android phones on September 28, 2024. 

Sales on these platforms surged 3.1x higher than the vivo V30, cementing the vivo V40's place as a market leader.

Why choose the vivo V40?

The vivo V40 is packed with features that make it a must-have for anyone looking to capture life's best moments with exceptional clarity and detail. Here's what makes it stand out:


ZEISS All Main Camera. Equipped with three 50MP lenses that meet ZEISS optics standards, the vivo V40 is built to deliver professional-grade portrait photography.

ZEISS-powered portrait features. With ZEISS Multifocal Portrait and ZEISS Style Portraits, users can achieve stunning, pro-level portrait photos effortlessly.

AI Aura Light. This updated version of vivo's famous Aura Light is now brighter and smarter, with AI 3D Studio Lighting that analyzes the face and adds virtual fill light to shadowed areas for a flawless look.

The vivo V40 is more than just a photography powerhouse. It boasts a 5500mAh BlueVolt battery paired with 80W fast charging, ensuring long-lasting power and rapid charging speeds. Its IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance make it durable in any environment, while the 120Hz AMOLED display with up to 4500 nits brightness guarantees a vibrant, immersive viewing experience.

Now is the perfect time to upgrade to the vivo V40. Experience cutting-edge innovation and style, available in vivo stores and kiosks nationwide, as well as online via vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada

Don’t miss out on the smartphone that’s taking the market by storm!

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Bioessence Celebrates 30 Years of “Caring Beyond Beauty” with a Grand Anniversary Event


Bioessence marked its 30th anniversary with a grand celebration, highlighting the brand's enduring commitment to "Caring Beyond Beauty." The milestone event, held on September 26, 2024, at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Quezon City, celebrated Bioessence's remarkable journey in providing world-class beauty and wellness services to clients across the Philippines.

Founded in 1994, Bioessence has evolved from a small 3-bed beauty clinic to a renowned wellness brand with branches throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The Pearl Anniversary event drew thousands of guests, including key opinion leaders, stakeholders, loyal customers, and influential figures who have contributed to Bioessence's success over the past three decades.

Dr. Emma Beleno-Guerrero, President & CEO, Bioessence
Dr. Emma Beleno-Guerrero, President & CEO, Bioessence

The celebration was filled with entertainment, surprises, and a look back at Bioessence's 30-year legacy. Attendees enjoyed live performances from The Philippines' Bossa Nova singer Sitti and crooner Richard Poon, along with Aliw Award winner MOBB, and rising talents Bugs and Jarlo Base.

The event also introduced new innovations in beauty and wellness, including a partnership with South Korea's OxygenCeuticals, an oxygen-based skincare brand, and the launch of Bioessence's latest treatment machine, Harmony. These advancements, alongside Bioessence's existing non-invasive treatments like Exilis and Plasma, demonstrate the brand's dedication to offering comprehensive solutions for beautiful skin and body.

Jennica Garcia

One of the highlights of the evening was the unveiling of Bioessence's new brand ambassador, actress Jennica Garcia, who captivated the audience with her beauty and charm. Attendees were treated to exclusive giveaways and a firsthand experience of Bioessence’s latest treatments and products, including demonstrations at a dummy clinic supervised by expert trainers.

Bioessence’s 30th-anniversary celebration was a perfect blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking vision, promising exciting developments in the brand’s portfolio of services as it continues to shape the future of beauty and wellness in the Philippines.

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