Jollibee introduces two different, but equally engaging couples for its first ever series of #MyKwentongJollibee short films

 

What has become an annual Valentine’s Day tradition for the country’s number one fast food brand—Jollibee—has also now become an opportunity for more people to share their own personal kilig stories. With the launch of #MyKwentongJollibee earlier this year as part of the brand’s 45^th year celebration, people from all walks of life and from anywhere in the world can now share their unique, happy, and inspiring tales, and have the chance to be featured as well.

 

For this year’s love month, Jollibee introduces two different, but equally engaging couples for its first ever series of #MyKwentongJollibee short films. Directed by multi-awarded Filipino filmmaker Paolo Villaluna, the shorts feature both couples sharing their stories in their own words, and how Jollibee has played a role in their love stories. 

 

“Jollibee has been part of the many memorable moments of Filipinos for generations, whether with families, friends and even their special someone. For our first ever #MyKwentongJollibee series, we celebrate real people whose love stories began with Jollibee. We wanted them to personally tell their beautiful tale of love for all the world to know, and to inspire others to share the joy of love with people who matter most this Valentine’s,” said Dorothy Dee Ching, VP-Marketing Head of Jollibee.

 

Finding forever on the job

 

Marife and Arnan developed their relationship while working as crewmates in Jollibee 

Photos from Marife Caspe, Arnan Caspe, and Raymund Mejica Requina

 

The first film, titled “From Crewmates to Soulmates,” shares Marife and Arnan’s love story that begins in Jollibee—not as star-crossed customers, but as members of the store team. Many people may have gotten a glimpse of their story a few years back, as their prenup photoshoot set in a Jollibee store went viral on social media and brought joy to netizens. The film gives viewers in-depth details about their colorful love story— how they started out as friends, their courtship, and to finally finding their forever. It’s a story full of laughter and joy, but not without its challenges, making for a wonderful tale that everyone can relate to. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/2Gcx-QT9k0s

 

Rediscovering love at Jollibee

 

Mico and Camille’s love story was years in the making 

Photos from Mico Aison and Camille Salimbao

 

The second film, “Second Chance at First Love,” talks about the love story of Mico and Camille, two contrasting personalities who first met in a summer review class. When Mico, a typical shy-type teen, laid eyes on the bubbly and personable Camille for the first time, he knew right away that he had to muster up the courage to ask her out. He invites Camille to a place they both love for their first date—Jollibee. However, not all first dates turn out well, and it took several years before they reunited once again. Will fate be on their side this time? https://youtu.be/nFWvAsnTEh8

Stories like these show that Jollibee can truly inspire not only joy, but true love in people. Get your dose of kilig and don’t miss these touching stories of romance this Valentine’s season by catching both #MyKwentongJollibee Valentine’s Day short films on the Jollibee Studios YouTube channel and on Jollibee’s Facebook page. 

 

Don’t forget to post your most memorable stories and invite your family and friends to do the same through #MyKwentongJollibee!

Brother Philippines partners with Luneta Park’s Street photographers

Brother Philippines partnered with Luneta Park’s Street photographers to boost their business and give park visitors printed souvenirs that they can cherish for life.

The “Memories for Life” activity was held on February 5, 2023. Brother Philippines set up printing stations at Mabini Hall and the Japanese Garden. Photographers printed the photos they took using high-quality printers and assistance from professional graphic artists.

The event kicked off at 9 am, with an opening speech from Shinichi Tanaka, Product Management Group Manager of Brother Philippines.  

“Everyone has hundreds of photos in their camera phone. However, a printed photo can turn those memories into a tangible memento that can be felt and held,” Tanaka later said in an interview. “We are proud to partner with veteran street photographers and provide them with the latest tools to capture those moments in vivid, living color.” 

(From L-R) Rolando A. Reyes , Samahan ng Malayang Photographer sa Luneta Inc. (SMPLI), Member; Eduardo F. Agustin, SMPLI, Auditor; Ronald C. Quintana, SMPLI, Sgt.-At-Arms; Shinichi Tanaka, Manager of the Product Management Group of Brother Philippines; Cecilio S. Compoc, SMPLI, President; Shiela Rose C. Javier, NPDC, Park Trading Committee, Chairperson; Dannica T. Iway, NPDC, Park Trading Committee, Secretary; Carlo R. Villanueva, Flower Clock Photographers Association Inc. (FCPAI), President; Rowena A. Saucero, FCPAI, Treasurer; Benhur R. Rubas, FCPAI, Board Member; Bartolome B. Miranda, SMPLI, Member

Brother Philippines also announced that it was strengthening the Customer Plus, an exclusive loyalty program. Established in 2019, it offers more after-sales customer benefits, like a quick access to Brother’s Customer Service Team, an exclusive in-app shopping feature called the iShop, and monthly raffle activities. The program will soon be offering more perks and surprises. During the Memories for Life campaign, Brother Philippines also acknowledged loyal Customer Plus members with a special gift.

The “Memories for Life” campaign is part of the company’s celebration of its twenty-third anniversary in the Philippines, and its motto of #BeingAtYourSide.

“For over two decades in the country, our goal has been to demonstrate our motto through providing customers with affordable high-quality products that can help them in every aspect of their life—from being more productive at work, to preserving everyday moments and special celebrations,” said Tanaka.  

The Memories for Life activity at Luneta Park reflects this motto by helping photographers with their livelihood while providing park visitors with photos that capture a precious memory. 

To learn more about the brand and its products, visit the Brother Philippines website at www.brother.com.ph. Follow Brother Philippines on Facebook and Instagram to know about the latest promos and anniversary activities. 

 

9 Ways to Celebrate The Love Month on a Budget

 

February is a special month to celebrate love and affection with your significant other.

Despite the notion that grandiose dinners and lavish gifts are necessary to mark the occasion, there are other simpler yet memorable ways to spend this special day. 

 

This is also the perfect time to take advantage of promos and discounts that many retailers and companies (e.g restaurants, hotels, salon, wellness centers) usually offer during this period to give some love to their customers like you. 

 

Indulge in an intimate home-cooked meal, wander amidst nature's splendor on a scenic walk or hike, and explore our list of 9 pocket-friendly ways to celebrate Valentine's Day: 

1. Cook a romantic dinner at home

 

This is a perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day on a budget by cooking your favorite dishes in the comfort of your own home. Use your RCBC credit or debit card to shop for special ingredients and take advantage of promos like the Tap & Go with Mastercard where you can get a chance to shop all you can up to P200,000. The promotion is open to all principal and supplementary cardholders of Mastercard credit, debit, and prepaid cards issued in Philippines. 

 

2. Plan a picnic in a nearby park 

 

Pack a basket of your favorite snacks and drinks, grab a blanket, and head to a local park for a romantic picnic. Enjoy each other's company while taking in the natural beauty around you. Surprise your loved one with fresh flowers during your date. A lovely bouquet need not be expensive with RCBC’s 20% off promo plus free shipping if you use your credit card to buy from FlowerStore.ph. 

 

 

3. Have some R&R with your partner

 

Valentine’s day is also about giving your loved ones the much needed “me-time”. Give your loved one that much-needed Rest and Relaxation (R&R).Treat them to a relaxing massage, foot spa or pedicure for a 10% discount at Breeze Oriental Spa and Massage, using your RCBC Credit card. The promo runs until April this year.

 

 

4. Take a scenic walk or hike together 

 

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore a nearby scenic trail or hike. This is a great way to get some exercise, spend quality time together, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

 

5. Visit a local museum or art gallery 

 

Take a stroll through a local museum or art gallery and appreciate the beauty and creativity of the exhibits. Learn something new, spend quality time together, and experience the cultural richness of your community.

 

6. Make a DIY gift for each other 

 

Get creative and make a unique and personal gift for your significant other. Give her or him anything from a piece of jewelry to a handmade card.

 

7. Go stargazing at a local observatory or a secluded spot 

 

Take a break from the bright lights of the city and go stargazing at a local observatory or a secluded spot. Appreciate the beauty of the night sky and spend intimate time together.

 

8. Go on a Romantic lunch date for two

 

Skip your kitchen preparations and just treat yourself and your partner to a luxurious hotel buffet!  Using your RCBC Credit Card, you can enjoy 40% off on your total bill for a lunch buffet at Spiral, Sofitel, or get up to 50% off at Seven Corners and Xin Tian Di, Crowne Plaza. Take advantage of the exclusive dining offers your RCBC Credit card has to offer.

 

9. Have a game night at home with your favorite board games 

 

Host a game night at home with your favorite board games. This is a great way to have fun and enjoy each other's company in a relaxed and low-key setting.

 

From cooking a romantic dinner at home to indulging your appetite and your senses, the options are endless. Take advantage of the various promos and exclusive discounts and make the most out of your budget. Whether it's a cozy night in or an outdoor adventure, the most important thing is to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. So, make the most of this special occasion and let the romance unfold.

To know more about the offers that you can enjoy with your RCBC Credit Card, visit rcbccredit.com.

Maxene shares #herfirstlove story with PLDT Home

There was a time i felt exactly like Maxine.

I was also young and I too had thought that i had found the one for me, and the only one who objected was my tatay.

 

But with youth often comes inexperience, haste, defiance, and when you add "love" to the mix you can add blind foolishness as well.

 

I thought i was a princess being rescued from the holds of a tyrannic king and all i wanted was to escape

 

When in reality. tatay was just protecting me, he just had a different way of showing it..

 

It was too late when i realized that and I regret not speaking with him for some time.

 

Looking back, now that he is in his 80's, im sure he already forgot about it as Oftentimes he doesn't event recognize me.

 

But now i know, we may fall in love and out of love many times, but our tatays will always be the first to love us.

We can find all kinds of love in this lifetime, but nothing compares to a first love. Sometimes, it’s not the first person that gave them kilig, nor the puppy love that gave us butterflies when we were kids—for some of us, our first love actually began at home. 

 

For most of us, our parents are the ones who loved us first, unconditionally. Actress, host and meditation teacher Maxene Magalona realizes this meaningful truth and shares it with everyone in a new Valentine’s Day video from PLDT Home. 

 

In the video, she pens a letter to her late father, the iconic and legendary master rapper Francis Magalona. 

 

Maxene describes how her father taught her the true meaning of love. “For you, love is about acceptance and non-judgment. You love others the way you want to be loved—by just letting you be who you are,” she writes. 

 

 “The love my dad showed me is my first love. He was a very genuine person. He showed everyone sincerity and respect. And to me, that’s love – accepting people for who and where they are,” Maxene says.

Love, indeed, is patient and kind. Maxene continues to live on the love that her dad taught her. “The love you experience at home is the love that you model,” she shares. “Love is a safe space where you will be accepted and not judged.” 

 

In her letter, she mentions how her dad showed her unconditional love through his actions. “You always tell me what I need to hear, but in a kind and gentle way,” she writes. “You would laugh and giggle as you tell me that heartbreak and pain are a natural part of life.” 

 

This Valentine’s Day, Maxene shares #herfirstlove story with PLDT Home. “I’m very honored to be part of a project that speaks of this kind of love. When you experience that kind of love at home you’re able to share it with others. I’m happy and honored that PLDT Home chose me to share this message to others,” she says. 

 

She adds that her favorite part of the video is the love letter for her dad. “I get to reconnect with him even if he’s not here physically. It was a comforting and heartwarming experience because it makes me remember that even if I am physically alone, love really knows no bounds. My dad’s love lives in me. I want to continue that legacy of his love.” 

 

Maxene concludes the letter by declaring that despite the painful heartbreaks, she’s not afraid to love again. “I will never give up. I will never lose hope. I know deep in my heart that I will find my true love one day because you showed me what true love is about. Thank you, Pop. I found my first love at home.”  

 

Watch Maxene Magalona’s heartwarming video on PLDT Home’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.

The official trailer of Viva’s “Martyr or Murderer” immediately went viral and controversial

As expected the official trailer of Viva’s “Martyr or Murderer” immediately went viral and controversial since it was launched a few days ago. 

The movie which takes a deeper look into the lives of two of the most polarizing figures in Philippine history -- Ninoy Aquino and former president Ferdinand Marcos, was sure to create a buzz from both devotees and critics of the two personalities. At the end of the said trailer, the voice of the country’s current president BongBong Marcos could be heard telling his sister Imee: “Dinaya ako ni Leni.”

Whether that conversation took place or not, it certainly made the film a lot more interesting.

At the mediacon Director and writer Darryl Yap said  “I want to provoke viewers. I want them to react. Kahit ano. Kahit papuri man ito o batikos,” he said.

But he made clear, “I won’t create illusions while at it. I won’t create lies. Mas maganda kasi ang totoo at yun ang ipapalabas namin dito.”

He then ended, “Mabait na version pa nga yan e.” saying VIVA Films, the producer of the movie had to consult its lawyers first before approving the said trailer.

History is still written. The story of Maid in Malacañang continues…

 

“Martyr or Murderer”, the sequel to Darryl Yap’s Mega Blockbuster hit “Maid in Malacañang” is showing in cinemas on March 1, 2023. And as expected, there is great rejoicing over this film coming from the director’s followers and supporters who made #MOMTheOfficialPoster trend for two days upon its official release on Monday, January 30.  

 

On his Facebook post, Yap expressed his gratitude for the hype and enumerated the numbers of the reactions and shares that the poster received in just 2 days: nearly 200,000 accumulated reactions on all postings across mainstream media, 54,000 reactions on Vincentiments official pages, 17,000 shares, and 6,400 uploads on personal accounts and pages.

“Martyr or Murderer” recounts what happened to the family before and after EDSA Revolution, a sneak peak to their life in exile, and a brave discussion on the intrigues surrounding Imee Marcos’s exploits in Morocco. Did she really go into hiding and forge passports? How did her siblings cope with the sudden turn of events? How did the ailing patriarch and his Imeldific wife carry on with their lives after being stripped of power and dignity?

 

Furthermore, the film aims to provide answers to the unending hows and whys involving President Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralin Marcos and his greatest nemesis, Senator Benigno Simeon Aquino, Jr.

 

How did all the strife between them start? How was Ninoy Aquino perceived by the people around him? Why was his death blamed on the Marcoses?  

 

And all these questions lead to even bigger ones: Who is the real martyr? Who is the real murderer?

 

Cristine Reyes, Cesar Montano, Ruffa Gutierrez, , Diego Loyzaga, and Ella Cruz reprise their roles as Imee Marcos, Ferdinand Marcos, Imelda Marcos, Bongbong Marcos and Irene Marcos.

 

Isko Moreno plays Ninoy Aquino. Jerome Ponce plays the young Ninoy. The powerhouse cast also includes Marco Gumabao as the young Marcos Sr., Cindy Miranda as the young Imleda, Elizabeth Oropesa and Beverly Salviejo as the remaining maids of the Marcos Family, and Rose Van Ginkel as Maricar, Imee’s confidante during in Morocco.  

 

Their story continues to unfold on the big screen. Watch “Martyr or Murderer” March 1 in cinemas nationwide.

mWell launches mWellMD app

Fresh from its win as as the Best Mobile Innovation for Digital Life in the 2023 Global Mobile (GLOMO) Awards in Barcelona, Spain, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation’s (MPIC) mWell launches the mWellMD app—a virtual clinic designed by doctors, for doctors.

In an event dubbed mWellMD Live, the Philippines’ healthcare mega app, introduced a tool that empowers doctors to grow their practice and serve patients anytime, anywhere with its fully digital features. mWellMD allows doctors to attend to patients on their mobile phone 24/7, easily manage schedules and patient records and be notified of upcoming patient schedules. Built with the doctor experience in mind, it provides a seamless experience from sign-up to consultation.

MPIC President, Chairman and CEO and mWell Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan says, “We’re committed to delivering innovative healthcare solutions not only for mWell app users but also for our partner-doctors.  mWellMD’s future-proof platform empowers Filipino doctors to reach more through the power of technology.”

MPIC Chief Finance, Risk and Sustainability Officer and mWell CEO Chaye Cabal-Revilla says,                    “mWell not only cares for our users but for our partner-doctors as well. A smooth doctor experience is an important part of mWell’s operations. We make it a point to listen to them and respond to their needs. Through the mWellMD app, we are able to deliver a seamless end-to-end journey which will allow them to conveniently consult and grow their practice. With help from our partner-doctors, mWell’s fully integrated digital healthcare ecosystem will be able to offer our countrymen here and abroad convenient access to quality healthcare.”

The clinic doctors can carry 

The mWellMD app is loaded with tools that will allow doctors to manage their practice-- from patient records, consults, billings, and professional fees—right on their mobile phone. They can even communicate with their staff and refer patients to other doctors. Practice data and patient data are accessible anytime, anywhere. With just a click of a button on mobile, they can utilize an efficient appointment booking system for their online clinics and conveniently do online consultation for patients who are using the mWell app. Soon, enhanced features and a wider range of tools will be made available for doctors via mWellMD Advanced.

Seamless doctor experience guaranteed

Doctors were engaged to create the platform, test the system to make sure that the whole application is seamless, intuitive, and user-friendly. 

“The best healthcare platform tries to involve not only the growing needs of doctors but also of the industry,” says mWell Chief Technology Officer Dr. Mike Muin. “We are going beyond telemedicine – we are building solutions for doctors to make their practices and their lives better.” As a medical doctor with over twenty years of healthcare IT experience, he says doctors like him will always look for better solutions to respond to constant challenges in healthcare. 

Reliable operations and tech support 

For mWell, every doctor is a VIP.  To provide the assistance they need, tech experts are on-call 24/7 to assist partner-doctors and respond to their questions at the soonest possible time. Doctors can also depend on a dedicated operations team for regular training sessions and updates to ensure that they will always have a smooth experience on the mWellMD platform.

With its holistic cybersecurity strategy and end to end cybersecurity operational framework to Predict, Prevent, Detect and Respond to all cyber threats, backed by sophisticated technologies and highly skilled cybersecurity professionals, mWellMD is following global security standards to ensure the security and protection of all Personal Information that are stored, processed, and transmitted in its system belonging to both the doctors and patients.  Angel Redoble, mWell Chief Cybersecurity Officer and PLDT Group and Smart Communications FVP and Group CISO said “mWellMD went through rigorous vulnerability tests and security audits. It completed and passed all requirements to bring down all cyber related risks to the lowest level.”

Easy sign-up

Now is the best time for family doctors, specialists, and mind health experts to sign up as an mWell partner-doctor and grow their practice using the mWellMD app.

Doctors may register in as fast as 30 minutes. No joining fees. Only PRC ID is required. They get 100% of their professional fee without any commission from mWell—no deductions.  

To ensure smooth virtual practice, mWell is also offering partner doctors with an exclusive high-speed internet plan from PLDT Home Fibr: 100mbps for only P1499.

The mWellMD app for doctors is now available on Google Play Store and Apple App store. 

mWell, the only healthcare app among the convenor organizations and supporting companies of the GoDigital Pilipinas (GDP) movement, shall continue harnessing the power of technology to bring healthcare closer to more Filipinos anytime, anywhere. 

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to work towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

To consult with partner-doctors and access a wide range of wellness features, simply download the mWell PH app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and register. Follow mWell on Facebook and mwellph on Instagram for more updates.