HOW THE ORANGE LADY PLANS MAY BE THE COLOR OF HOPE FOR OFWS

For many Overseas Filipino Workers, (OFWs) owning their own businesses is one of their main goals.

 

After years of away from their families, sacrificing time and enduring difficult working conditions, many look forward to coming back home for good, to start anew as entrepreneurs.  And for those who are exploring that possibility, opening a beauty salon is a particularly a promising option.

We Filipinos pride ourselves for looking good. That is why the beauty industry is thriving in the Philippines. In recent years, the country has seen a significant increase in demand for beauty services, with consumers willing to spend more on beauty treatments and products. This growing demand has created a favorable environment for entrepreneurs looking to enter the beauty market, especially in urban areas.

The beauty industry has also proven to be relatively recession-proof. Even during economic downturns, people tend to continue investing in their appearance, making the beauty industry more resilient to market fluctuations than other sectors. This means that opening a beauty salon is a relatively safer investment for OFWs.

Another advantage of opening a beauty salon is that it is a relatively low-cost business to start. OFWs can start small, with just a few chairs, mirrors, and basic beauty supplies, and gradually expand their services as their business grows. This makes it an ideal option for those who may not have a lot of capital to invest in a business.

 

Lastly, opening a beauty salon can also provide OFWs with a sense of fulfillment and purpose. After years of working abroad, many OFWs may be looking for a way to give back to their community and contribute to the local economy. By opening a beauty salon, they can provide employment opportunities for their fellow Filipinos and offer high-quality beauty services to their community.

As we celebrate Easter, we are reminded of the message of hope and renewal that it brings and for OFWs looking to invest in the beauty business, Orange may just be their new color of hope—just like how it helped change the life of the orange lady herself, Joby Linsangan-Moreno.

 

As she celebrates her birthday today, Joby shared a few exciting news one of which is the franchise fee of P80,000 for those interested to join her “beautiful” journey as one of the owners of an Orange Blush Salon franchise.

“Over the years, we have learned that a franchise system only works when both the franchisee and franchisor trust each other fully. The Php80k franchise free (renewable yearly for 5 years) is actually just a fraction of the original franchise fee cost. We want our franchise system to be flexible, relatable. And we have a short franchise contract this time at one year (renewable) so that both parties can try and test the franchise system and together, plan for the future of the brand,” Linsangan told us over a recent chat.

Orange Blush Salon is one of the most rapidly growing salon chains from Nueva Ecija. Much like the color orange, the salons embody a vibrant and dynamic image.

Prior to 2003, the founder, Joby Linsangan, had never imagined owning a salon business. With a degree in Medical Technology from one of the top universities in the Philippines, Linsangan was torn between pursuing a career in the United States or attending medical school. However, fate intervened, and in 2003, Linsangan decided to launch a new business concept in the salon industry. Having been a beauty title-holder and ramp model during her student days, she realized that she had a passion for the beauty industry.

She observed that salons in her province offered either pricey or cheap services, but not a middle ground. With this in mind, she came up with Orange Blush Salon, which opened its first branch in October 2003 with an initial capital of P30,000.

 

The salon's interior was also designed to be inviting, colorful, and well-lit. The basic services such as hair cut and blow dry, hot oil, foot spa, and manicure plus pedicure were pegged at reasonable prices and Linsangan made sure to offer their services at customer-friendly prices by well-trained staff.  

Orange Blush Salon's reputation grew quickly, and within three years, Linsangan opened five additional branches strategically located near the market, hospital, schools, and malls in her province and nearby cities before finally launching in Metro Manila.

 

As a franchise Linsangan's business philosophy is centered on making customers feel special but always at an affordable price, which is achieved through a strategic location, excellent services, friendly and competent staff, attractive interiors, and aggressive advertising.

 

MOVING FORWARD POST PANDEMIC

Now that the economy is slowly recovering from the pandemic, business need to adapt to the changes brought about by this new normal.

For Linsangan they made use of the time to renovate all their branches- making them more minimalist and modern. We took advantage of the time when we can renovate the salons without too many customers that time. We closed some branches too and made our services more relevant to our clients, offering home services and at-home hair care products (Peach), introduced online selling and payments and appointments too.

She also shared the development of their new hair products called PEACH Hair Essentials.

 

“Peach Hair essentials is the FIRST HAIR REJUVENATING SET in the Philippines. If we have rejuve sets for the face, skin, it’s now time to also focus on our crowning glory- our Hair. Peach is a 3-step daily routine that keeps salon treated hair soft, healthy and truly manageable. No more ngarag hair days with Peach Hair Rejuvenating System.”

Always the optimist Linsangan said she learned a lot of lessons from the pandemic; “I realized that life is truly fragile and short; that the best things in life are not things, and they are free; that you should always live the day as if it were your last and that everything is temporary; only God is eternal, so we fix our eyes on Him.”

She also shared how they continued the Parlorista At Barbero Kami (PAK) Foundation mission of Spreading Love one free haircut at a time. We also plan to hold livelihood programs like Hairdressing workshop to equip our learners with haircutting, haircoloring skills that could be an extra source of income.

As she celebrates another birthday, she hopes that through Orange Blush Salons she could help realize the dreams of OFWs. "I have been blessed with everything that I have prayed for and hoped for, so this year, I am just truly thankful to God for being our Fortress, our Refuge and our Hope. He has been our light during the darkest and saddest time in our lives when our dad was called to heaven. 

I pray that He guides me as I fulfill my life’s mission found in Matthew 5:16 “Make your light shine so that others may see your good works and glorify Your Father in Heaven.” I have always believed the the Lord has called me for that specific mission, and as to how I will reflect His Light, I will let Him lead me, surrendering joyfully and confidently to His Will.

For more info follow Orange Blush Salon page OrangeBlushSalon.ph

 Website Orange Salon PH

Take advantage of the Beko Super Summer Sale!

Summer season is officially here! As we constantly look for different ways to cool ourselves down, from cold drinks to cooling activities, we also seek ways to keep our food fresh for longer as the hot season escalates the food spoilage process.

 

So, this summer, you will want to take advantage of the Beko Super Summer Sale! You can get up to Php 10,000 off in their multi-door, side-by-side, top and bottom mount with no frost, and direct cool refrigerators, including their chest freezers.

 

We've got a long time of heat for our summer getaways, so when it comes to storing your fruits and vegetables for your family's beach getaway, you should check out the Beko GNO480E40HFGBPH!

 

This multi-door refrigerator not only lets you enjoy a bigger capacity in food storage, but it also lets you easily enjoy a healthier lifestyle as it is designed with HarvestFresh Technology which helps store your fruits and vegetables for a more extended period. 

 

It is known for its innovative three-color light technology in the crisper drawer, mimicking the 24-hour sun cycle and preserving vitamins in fruits and vegetables for longer.

 

Food tends to spoil more quickly during the summer because of the high temperature, which is caused by the growth of bad microorganisms. With a HarvestFresh refrigerator, you can keep your worries away from having rotten fruits and vegetables and say hello to a healthier and fresh lifestyle this summer. 

 

Enjoy a healthier lifestyle as you can get this for only Php 51,842 from its SRP of Php 60,990.

 

Need more freezer capacity for your frozen goods? Check out the Beko GNO563E50HFKPH. It is also made with HarvestFresh Technology and designed with multi-air flow features. 

 

This helps maintain the balance of cold air circulation throughout the unit, keeping temperature levels in order, so your food stays fresher for longer. From its SRP of Php 55,990, you can get it for only Php 45,912 during the super summer sale.

 

Should we get a top-mount or a bottom-mount refrigerator? Let this guide you!

 

Top mount refrigerators, or top freezer refrigerators, feature wider doors with a large fresh food compartment below the freezer. 

So, when you picture a typical and standard refrigerator, you might be looking for top-mount refrigerators just like the Beko RDNT470E50VZK that lets you enjoy your food for a more extended period as it is made with HarvestFresh Technology and NeoFrost Dual Cooling Technology that provides two times faster cooling and keeping humidity levels high to maintain food freshness. At the same time, the freezer focuses on maintaining a dry environment to prevent ice buildup.

 

Ever wondered if you kept opening the fridge just to cool yourself from the blazing summer heat? Worry no more about it because thanks to the NeoFrost Dual Cooling Technology, it keeps your food away from freezer burn. This can be caused by loss of moisture every time you open the fridge, which can lead to lack of even temperature control and ruin your food’s freshness.

 

Enjoy the summer heat, coolness of your refrigerator, and get the RDNT470E50VZK for only Php 36,792 (from its SRP of Php 45,990)!

 

Got lots of beverages you would want to store? A bottom-mount refrigerator may be perfect for you, just like the Beko RCNT415E50VZK! 

 

The Beko RCNT415E50VZK offers more accessible access to fresh ingredients and beverages as the freezer is at the bottom of the refrigerator. Bottom-mount refrigerators have more spacious freezers that allow you to store more ingredients and cool drinks you want to enjoy throughout the summer.

 

Both refrigerators include NoFrost Technology, which prevents enormous ice buildup that may lead to constant defrosting.

 

You can get the RCNT415E50VZK for only Php 37,392 (from its SRP of Php 43,990).

 

Are you looking for an energy-efficient refrigerator? The Beko RDSO308K30PPH might be good for you! This direct cool refrigerator naturally lets the cool air circulate through the unit, retaining fresh food for a short time. 

 

The Beko RDSO308K30PPH has a ProSmart Inverter Compressor, which uses less energy, minimizes your carbon footprint, and enables you to conserve energy and be environmentally friendly. It also has a reversible door that lets you change how you want to open your refrigerator.

 

You can get this now from its SRP of Php 23,990 for only Php 20,871!

 

Cool yourself down with the Beko chest freezers! Now that the summer heat is blazing, we need something to keep our ice stored cool. 

Check out the Beko CF316WPH that is made with MinFrost Technology. This feature allows you to have less ice buildup in the freezer, which means frozen food will be preserved better and with less energy, while you'll need to defrost less frequently. It also has a convertible mode feature that lets you turn your freezer into a fridge, giving more room for you to beat and enjoy the summer heat.

 

It is also made with ProSmart Inverter Compressor, which eases you from your worries of a noisy freezer and saves on your energy bills, which is truly helpful especially at this summer season.

 

From its SRP of Php 21,990, you can get this now for only Php 18,911!

 

So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy your summer experience by enjoying a healthier lifestyle with Beko appliances! The Beko Super Summer Sale will run from April 1 to June 30, 2023.

 

Beko appliances are available at Abenson, All Home, Anson’s, Appliance Centrum, Asian Home Appliance, Automatic Centre, BHF, Fair N Square, Gloria Bazar, Great World, HAT, J Marketing, Lazada, Magic Appliance, Manhattan Appliance, Manila Imperial, Mike’s Appliances, Our Builders Warehouse Pricewise, Robinsons Appliance, Savers, SVC & Plusign, Shopee, SM Appliance, Solidmark, S&R (Gidi), United Mottoaliance, Western Appliance and 1st Megasaver.

 

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, go to http://beko.ph or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bekoph and their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/bekoph/. 

 

Generation HOPE and Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX), have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to social and environmental impact

 

Real Leaders® has released its latest list of the world's most impactful companies that are leading purposeful change, and two Philippine-based companies, Generation HOPE and Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX), have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to social and environmental impact. These companies have been ranked at 232nd and 257th place, respectively, joining the ranks of other winners such as Tesla, Ben & Jerry's, and Crocs.

 

"This is our fifth annual ranking, and the number of award winners has tripled. It's encouraging to see how this movement is going mainstream with businesses all over the world," said Mark Van Ness, Founder of Real Leaders. "We are excited to welcome new and past company winners to the impact movement, and into the Real Leaders Impact Awards community."

 

Founded in 2010, Real Leaders® is a membership community for impact leaders with a global media platform dedicated to driving positive change. 

Nanette Medved-Po (6th from left), founder and executive chairperson of Generation HOPE and Plastic Credit Exchange with teachers and community members in Marawi

In its fifth year, the magazine reveals its Impact Awards which ranks 300 Impact Companies solving existential problems through innovative and sustainable market-based solutions. Calculated by the Real Leaders 'Force for Good' score, it takes into account the company's 5-year sales growth, revenue, and B Impact Assessment to objectively rank the companies. 

Respected brands from a variety of industries globally, such as Toms, Vita Coco, Tetra Pak, and Lego Group also made it to this year's list. 

 

"We are thrilled to be recognized by Real Leaders among many other values-aligned companies," said Nanette Medved-Po, Founder and Executive Chairperson at HOPE and PCX. "We aspire to continue to build out effective market-based solutions to address important environmental and social issues in the Philippines and beyond."

 

Generation Hope has made a significant impact since its establishment in 2012, with 122 public school classrooms built in areas where it’s needed the most. Additionally, the organization's agricultural interventions have benefited over 21,000 smallholder coconut farmers in Mindanao, resulting in the planting of more than a million coconut trees in the region last year. Generation Hope is also actively contributing to environmental conservation by diverting plastic away from nature and collecting approximately 551 kilograms of plastic in 2022 alone.

 

Plastic Credit Exchange’s (PCX) mission is to accelerate the transition to a circular economy and to build a future where no plastic ends up in nature. PCX is addressing the plastic waste problem by collecting, tracking, monetizing and repurposing plastic with the power of blockchain technology while supporting communities on the ground. It is the only fully transparent global marketplace for audited plastic waste reduction. 

 

To date, PCX and its partners have diverted more than 42 Million kilograms of plastic waste from nature, invested over $3 Million into the historically underfunded circular plastic economy, and its waste-to-energy programs have driven more than 70K tons of carbon reduction from coal replacement.

 

Singapore Airlines re-launched the Free Singapore Tour after a two-year hiatus

Transit and transfer passengers flying through Singapore Changi Airport can once again experience the Free Singapore Tour, this time with refreshed itineraries and a new Changi Precinct Tour.

 

Changi Airport Group (CAG), Singapore Airlines (SIA), and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) re-launched the Free Singapore Tour today after a two-year hiatus due to Covid-19. Three of the existing tours available since pre-Covid-19 - the City Sights Tour, Heritage Tour, and Jewel Tour – have been refreshed to include new points of interest. A brand-new Changi Precinct Tour will introduce travellers to the interesting sights and sounds of the eastern region

surrounding Singapore Changi Airport. Each tour lasts 2.5 hours and will be available daily, with plans to progressively increase to nine tours a day.

With transit and transfer passengers accounting for about 30% of passenger traffic at

Changi Airport pre-pandemic, the tour was first introduced in 1987 to enhance the airport’s attractiveness as a transfer hub and to entice transit and transfer passengers to visit Singapore as a holiday destination. In 2019, over 80,000 passengers went on the Free Singapore Tour. The top markets were India, Australia, and Indonesia, with Indian and Australian travellers making up more than one third of the total participants.

New Changi Precinct Tour to showcase eastern Singapore

The Changi Precinct Tour is a new itinerary that will bring participants to the eastern

part of Singapore to visit local community spaces such as the Tampines heartland,

and to admire the rustic charms of Changi Village and Changi Beach. It offers a

glimpse of how local residents live, and tells the tale of Singapore’s history on this

part of the island, away from the usual hustle and bustle of Singapore’s city centre.

Refreshed itineraries to offer travellers new experiences

At the Jewel Tour, in addition to visiting popular attractions like the Shiseido Forest

Valley and the HSBC Rain Vortex, participants can now discover more about

Singapore’s food heritage through local brands such as Bee Cheng Hiang and Tong

Garden, and sample local snacks at the same time. Another new component of the

tour is a free guided walkthrough of a digital attraction - Changi Experience Studio -

for participants to experience some of its airport-themed games and interactive

exhibits.

New pit stops in the City Sights Tour include the Civic District, where travellers will

get an introduction to Singapore’s urban development through visits to various

national monuments including the National Gallery Singapore, Anderson Bridge, and

The Padang. The bus route will also pass through the new Marina Bay Financial

District enroute to Gardens by the Bay. The Heritage Tour, available from June, will

feature places of interest such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, Arab

Street, and Haji Lane, for participants to gain a more in-depth understanding of

Singapore’s unique and diverse multi-cultural heritage.

 

The refreshed itineraries also highlight sustainability features at some of the

locations featured in the tours, to give participants an overview of Singapore’s

sustainability efforts. These include the Eco Community Garden at the rooftop of Our

Tampines Hub (as part of the Changi Precinct Tour), environmental sustainability

initiatives implemented at Gardens by the Bay (as part of the City Sights Tour) and

Jewel (as part of the Jewel Tour).

 

Monster Day Tours has been appointed by CAG, SIA, and STB to run the Free

Singapore Tours.

Mr Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub & Cargo Development at

CAG, said, “The Free Singapore Tour was very popular among our transit and

transfer passengers prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, and we are happy to bring it

back with the resumption of travel. For travellers who choose to transit or transfer at

Changi Airport, the Free Singapore Tour is designed to give them a glimpse of what

Singapore has to offer, including the unique attractions and offerings at Jewel Changi

Airport and the neighbouring Changi Precinct which has a rich cultural and historical

heritage. Together with our partners, SIA and STB, we hope to welcome more

passengers who fly through Changi Airport to enjoy a slice of Singapore through our

new tours and world-class attractions and facilities.”

Mr Lee Lik Hsin, Executive Vice President Commercial, Singapore Airlines, said, “We

welcome the timely relaunch of the enhanced Free Singapore Tour, which offers a

unique transit experience for our customers. We are pleased to continue working

closely with CAG and STB to promote the sustainable growth of travel to and

through Singapore.”

Mr Chang Chee Pey, Assistant Chief Executive, Marketing Group, Singapore

Tourism Board, said, "We are delighted to bring back the Free Singapore Tour

through our long-standing partnership with CAG and SIA. It is imperative for us to

refresh our tourism offerings to meet the demand for wellness and eco-conscious

travel, and cater to travellers seeking deeper experiences. We hope that the tour will

inspire transit and transfer passengers to plan a longer trip to Singapore in future,

and discover much more of what our vibrant city has to offer.”

 

Book a tour in advance on new portal

Advance booking is now available on Changi Airport’s website. Transit and transfer

passengers who wish to join the Free Singapore Tour must have a layover period of

at least 5.5 hours but less than 24 hours. Participants will need to have a valid entry

visa for Singapore to take part in the tours.

For more information, visit the Free Singapore Tour page here.

For the detailed tour itineraries, click here – City Sights Tour, Jewel Tour, Changi

Precinct Tour, Heritage Tour.

PIDSOG champions safe motherhood by conducting lay lectures on maternal health

In honor of Women’s day the Philippine Infectious Diseases Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology (PIDSOG), alongside with the support of Dr. Conception G. Lat from the City Health Office (CHO) Antipolo, championed safe motherhood by conducting lay lectures on maternal health and provided free vaccination for pregnant women in Sitio Otto, Lower San Isidro, Antipolo Rizal on March 30, 2023. This event served as a tribute to women and their right to health, which PIDSOG celebrates every day.

 

"When we protect mothers and their infants from vaccine-preventable diseases, we reduce the risk of complications and contribute to a healthier, safer future for the whole family,” said Dr. Maria Lorena L. Santos, President of PIDSOG.

1 in every 10 Filipino mothers die everyday due to pregnancy-related complications and childbirth, while 13 to 14 out of 1000 babies die within their first 28 days of life.^[1] Pregnant women and newborns are highly vulnerable to infectious diseases due to changes in the immune system of the expectant mother and underdeveloped immune response in newborns. 

 

In 2022, the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) saw an increase in the number of maternal deaths in the first six months, with over 468 Filipinos dying from obstetric deaths. This was a 10.1% increase compared to the same period from 2021. In order to prevent more maternal mortalities, health awareness and access to appropriate, quality services is crucial. 

 

Maternal immunization is important for pregnant women, as it helps to safeguard them against infections.^[2]Vaccines for diseases such as flu and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) can provide protection against certain diseases that can cause complications that can possibly harm the mother and the baby. ^[3]Maternal immunization is proven to be safe and effective in protecting both the mother and the baby against infectious diseases that can have serious health consequences.^[4] Vaccinating pregnant women not only protects the expectant moms but also provides some degree of protection against vaccine preventable diseases for their newborn babies at least for the first few months after birth.

 

PIDSOG’s lecture discussed prevalent health issues experienced by mothers due to the many changes occurring in women's bodies during pregnancy. After the discussion, provision of free immunization against flu and Tdap were also given to mothers.

 

Also present at the event were various medical professionals from PIDSOG, Dr. Patricia Malay-Koh, Dr. Monette Millar-Aquino, Dr. Henrietta Lucasan, Dr. Erwin de Mesa, Dr. Catherine Jane Costa, Dr. Analyn Fallarme, Dr. Florida Taladtad and Barangay Health Workers from Lower San Isidro.

 

The activity was made possible through the generous support of Kusum Health, who provided transportation and meals for all participants and staff, Sanofi for providing medical educational grants and the printed vaccination cards, Anmum for the free milk supplements and Biofemme for the free vitamin and calcium supplements.

 

Moreover, PIDSOG and the Department of Health (DOH) are working closely together to assess the existing Maternal Health and Immunization Program by revising recommendations and guidelines, and enhancing pregnant women's access to recommended vaccines during their pregnancy.

---

^[1] Unicef [Key Demographic Indicators] https://data.unicef.org

^[2] https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-is-it-safe-to-get-vaccinations#

^[3] https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/pregnant/hcp/vaccine-safety.html

^[4] https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pregnancy/vacc-safety.html

World Vision brought together over 100 sponsors and donors in a joyous and emotional gathering

 

The life you touch may just be the one sitting next to you. World Vision in the Philippines recently brought together over 100 sponsors and donors in a joyous and emotional gathering - the first face-to-face Loyal Donor Appreciation Event since the pandemic. 

 

Held in Quezon City and hosted by World Vision Education Technical Program Manager Geomel Jetonzo and GMA news anchor Mav Gonzales, the event celebrated the generosity and loyalty of sponsors who have and are still supporting World Vision’s child sponsorship program. Over 50 sponsors were recognized for their exceptional support, having sponsored children for five, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years!

World Vision team and loyal child sponsors proudly stand together for the children

 

Marie Demafelis - a child sponsor for 25 years and former Strategy Management Director of WVDF – feels grateful for the opportunity to help transform the lives of the most vulnerable children. “Over the years, I’ve attended many Loyal Sponsors events. I encourage other sponsors to join as you can listen to the moving testimonies of all the children. You can see firsthand how you’re able to help them and make a difference in their lives,” she shared. 

World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte shares their recent success with the presentation of their annual report 

In its 2022 Annual Report, World Vision shared that it reached 3,243,854 children. “We at World Vision are truly humbled and blessed to have received our sponsors and children’s unwavering trust, confidence, and loyalty as we implement our programs, projects, and advocacies through the Philippines, especially in the most difficult and vulnerable places,” shares Rommel Fuerte, National Director of World Vision in the Philippines. “This event is a very special one as we'd like to take this time to express our sincerest, heartfelt thank yous’ and gratitude to our dearest sponsors and partners for their amazing commitment to child sponsorship.”

 

In a moving segment of the program, children who are registered under World Vision’s child sponsorship program as well as former sponsored children, led by Rear Admiral Armand Balilo of the Philippine Coast Guard, shared their stories of success and resilience, further inspiring guests. 

 

“The Lord’s plan for us is to give us hope and a future. This is what World Vision’s program – as well as my sponsors – have given me. I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for extending your grace and love to these children. Looking back, I can say with certainty that the Lord has, indeed, given me a future and hope,” shared Richard Supat, one of the organization’s former sponsored children. 

 

To date, World Vision in the Philippines has an operational presence in 28 area programs with more than 56,000 registered children. If you’d like to become a sponsor and use your blessings, you can do so by simply donating Php 25 a day or Php 750 a month. Your generosity can help advance initiatives that focus on children’s education, health and nutrition, child protection, disaster preparedness, economic development, and more. 

World Vision Resource Development Director Jun Godornes expresses his gratitude to loyal donors and sponsors.

 

In his closing remarks, Resource Development Director Jun Godornes emphasized how

paying it forward benefits not only the sponsored children but the child sponsors as

well. “If you are here, you are blessed. Thank you for being a channel for more blessings.” 

 

Watch the event highlights here: https://youtu.be/Gz1Mjl0zDrQ

 

Become a proud World Vision Sponsor and read more about our initiatives at www.worldvision.org.ph. 

 

RACE, a new Korean workplace dramedy coming May 10 exclusively to Disney+

What Park Yoonjo lacks in qualifications and experience she more than makes up for in tenacity and drive, but when everyone in the company discovers that several recent hires were made as part of a newly created diversity program, Yoonjo will have to overcome the insurmountable to win their approval in RACE, a new Korean workplace dramedy coming May 10 exclusively to Disney+.

Park Yoonjo has spent her entire career trying to prove that she belongs. Born into a family without means, she was unable to secure a university degree or lean upon her family connections to get ahead, but what Yoonjo lacks in formal education she more than makes up for in work ethic. In RACE, viewers follow along as Yoonjo battles against a stacked deck to secure her dream job at Seyong, a huge Korean conglomerate. Although it appears Yoonjo’s luck has finally taken a turn for the better, reality quickly steps in to prove her wrong, forcing Yoonjo to work harder than ever to overcome the seemingly insurmountable and prove to everyone that she belongs where she is. Set in modern-day Seoul, RACE perfectly captures the nuanced dramas of the modern-day workplace in a fun and entertaining way.

Starring Lee Yeonhee (New Year Blues, Welcome to Wedding Hell) as “diversity hire” Park Yoonjo; Moon Sori (The Handmaiden, Seoul Vibe) as Goo Yijung, the leading voice in the PR industry, Hong Jonghyun (Moon Lovers) as Yoonjo’s friend Ryu Jaemin and Jung Yunho (Dating On Earth) as CEO of Earth Communication Seo Donghoon, RACE is written by acclaimed screenwriter Kim Roori (Hyena, The Ace) and directed by Lee Dongyoon (She Would Never Know, 20th Century Boy and Girl).

First announced as part of an expanded slate of local APAC content at the 2022 Disney Content Showcase, RACE joins a whole host of incredible Korean titles now available on Disney+, including: Call It Love about a girl driven to revenge but who falls in love with her potential victim; Soundtrack #1 about two friends who are secretly in love with each other; and Big Bet about a serial entrepreneur whose life is turned on its head when he is arrested for murder.

Enjoy RACE from May 10, only on Disney+ .
*****

Seize the Summer You Dasurv with 0% interest through Home Credit!

Summer is here! Beach bums and backpackers are now getting ready for their beach trips, summer road trips, and halo-halo foodie moments to beat the heat. Make the most of this season and check off items from your summer bucket list of your home and travel essentials without breaking the bank.

 

Home Credit Philippines, the shopping partner of every Filipino, makes everyone’s summer shopping experience more meaningful and affordable through its wide selection of products offered at 0% interest monthly installment – the value for Summer You Dasurv!

 

Get those cooling appliances and trendy gadgets for your trips and summer essentials to make your vacations extra special through Home Credit’s biggest summer blowout! From March 23 to May 31, you can save and get 0% interest in home appliances and furniture, gadgets and electronics, motorcycle accessories and hardware, bicycles, and sports equipment, and more.

 

Summer Surprises You Dasurv!

Home Credit shares the most enjoyable summer experience and awesome surprises in-store for everyone. Watch out for interactive booths and social media contests with exciting prizes and giveaways under Home Credit’s biggest summer campaign.

 

If you are a fan of birthday party games, you probably joined the longest shout at least once in your life. Relive this moment literally and shout all you can at Home Credit’s Dasurv Ko ‘To Booth. Coming to areas near you, the booth is open to the public to accept the challenge, get a high score and a chance to win awesome prizes.

 

TikTokers! Get ready to create new ting ting tang moments and be part of Home Credit’s upcoming TikTok Hashtag Challenge featuring the Home Credit Dance. Get on your groove, practice your moves and look out for our influencer friends as they teach you how to dance the heat away.

 

To give back to its valued customers, Home Credit has prepared the biggest Para sa Best Summer Prizes on their official Facebook page where followers can get a chance to play and win big in their upcoming summer games. The contests go from guessing games to spot the hidden tags, easy right? 

 

To capture the best travel-inspos this season, Home Credit soon shall launch Para sa Best Summer Destinationfeaturing the country’s top summer spots courtesy of HCPLAY. This also entails exciting merchant collaborations and giveaways to watch out for!

 

More amazing surprises are up for all Home Credit customers. Don’t skip the fun in the sun and stay tuned for these awesome summer activities and announcements from Home Credit!  Download the My Home Credit App now or visit www.omecredit.phwww.homecredit.ph to check out the wide selection of items at an affordable cost and 0% interest rates to achieve the life and Summer You Dasurv!

 

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

 

Watsons has partnered with Operation Smile Philippines (OSP) for ten years to provide free surgeries and support children born with cleft conditions

Watsons, the leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer in the Philippines has been dedicated to uplifting the health and well-being of the local community. In the Philippines, Watsons has partnered with Operation Smile Philippines (OSP) for ten years to provide free surgeries and support children born with cleft conditions. Through this program, Watsons and Operation Smile have not only transformed the physical appearance of these children but have also improved their confidence and overall well-being, giving them a chance to smile brighter and lead more fulfilling lives.

Recently, Watsons supported Operation Smile's 27th medical mission at Sarangani Bay Specialist Center in General Santos City. The mission aimed to provide safe, effective, and timely surgery and comprehensive care for children with cleft conditions. The medical mission was made possible by the efforts of 28 doctor volunteers and 25 employee volunteers from Watsons. In addition to the surgery, Watsons Philippines employee volunteers conducted a hygiene orientation seminar on postoperative feeding and oral and lip care. They also provided Hygiene Care Kits with oral and hand care products to the kids who underwent surgery.

“We are proud to be a part of Operation Smile Philippines' mission to change the lives of children. We’ve always believed that doing good is a community effort and that every smile and action, no matter how small, will contribute to a positive impact on the people around us and the community as a whole," said Viki Encarnacion, PR and Sustainability Director of Watsons.

 

Since the partnership started in 2013, Watsons and Operation Smile have changed the lives of 2,152 children through free surgeries. The retailer aims to provide 3,300 cleft surgeries by 2030, part of A.S. Watson's global commitment to bring 10,000 perfect smiles.

 

In the Philippines, one child is born with a cleft and lip palate condition out of 750 live births. Operation Smile Philippines has helped change the lives of many children born with this condition since 1982

Watsons is inviting everyone to join them in transforming the lives of children born with cleft lip and palate conditions by supporting their partnership with Operation Smile Philippines. Donations can be made by cash in the cans located in Watsons stores, or by donating their Watsons Club membership points at the cashier. This will allow everyone to become part of the collective effort to Do Good for these children and help them achieve perfect smiles and a brighter future. Join Watsons in this meaningful endeavor to help create a better future for these children and their families.

AirAsia Philippines assured their preparedness to accommodate the surge of passenger volume during long Holy Week break

Anticipating busier air traffic during the long Holy Week break, AirAsia Philippines assured their preparedness to accommodate the surge of passenger volume which is significantly higher compared to last year. Starting today, Wednesday, 05 April until Friday, thousands of AirAsia guests are heading out to various domestic and international destinations to take advantage of last-minute Holy Week vacation plans. 

AirAsia destinations Bacolod, Bohol, Boracay, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Hong Kong, Osaka, Narita, and Macao remain as the top domestic and international destinations with the highest bookings.      

The World's Best Low-Cost Airline has increased staffing at NAIA Terminals 3 and 4 to manage the anticipated influx of last-minute travelers as well as those making their way back to Manila and the provinces following the holiday weekend. Along with the check-in counters, self-check-in kiosks are also available at the terminal entrance.

AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs Country Head Steve Dailisan said, “Providing seamless and hassle-free air travel has always been our priority. Holy Week is an important season for Filipino families and it is our joy and pride to be able to serve our kababayan yearning to spend this long weekend in their provinces. We wish all our guests to have a safe, meaningful, and peaceful rest this Semana Santa.”    

To ensure safe travel, AirAsia Philippines continues to implement rigorous enforcement of wearing face masks inside the aircraft as mandated by the air transport authorities.

AirAsia Philippines is also reminding its guests about the full-scale implementation of the new e-travel card which replaces the paper-based arrival and departure card. All passengers are required to register through etravel.gov.ph beginning on 15 April 2023 onwards.

To support guests who are planning their last-minute travel, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline is offering a P88 one-way base fare for domestic and PHP488 for international travel through the Fly for Vibe promo which is available for bookings made from today until 30 April for travels until October 31, 2023.

To avoid long queues and to ensure a smooth travel experience, AirAsia Philippines encourages passengers to be at the airport two hours prior to domestic flights and four hours before international flights. Guests can also maximize the use of mobile check-in through the airasia Super App. To get updated with the flight schedules and other travel advisories, visit the airasia fly safe page, airasia newsroom, and airasia Super App social media platforms Facebook and Twitter.