Landers Superstore Partners with Paywatch to Elevate Employee Benefits with Earned Wage Access

 Landers Superstore, the fastest-growing membership retail chain in the Philippines, has partnered with Paywatch, Asia’s leading Earned Wage Access (EWA) provider, to enhance its employee benefits program by introducing EWA as a key offering. This partnership makes Landers the first supermarket in the country to implement EWA, also known as on-demand pay, reflecting its commitment to retaining top talent and advancing employee financial wellness. 

As part of a broader initiative to boost employee satisfaction and productivity, Landers launched the Earned-Wage Access (EWA) program at its Central Office, Otis, and Alabang branches during the pilot phase. This is just the beginning, as Landers plans to roll out the program nationwide, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing financial wellness for all employees. The EWA program gives employees access to a portion of their wages before payday, providing greater financial flexibility to manage daily expenses and emergencies, while reducing reliance on short-term loans. 

Advocating Financial Wellness in the Workplace & Impact in the Retail Industry

According to PwC’s 2022 Employee Financial Wellness Survey, 76% of employees reported that financial stress negatively impacted their productivity, with 55% saying financial issues distracted them at work. Additionally, 76% of respondents expressed a preference for working with companies that prioritize financial wellness. 

Recognizing the importance of employee financial health, Landers is rolling out EWA to empower its workforce. EWA provides access to earned wages, not loans, meaning employees avoid hidden fees and interest. As a debt-free solution, it stands out as one of the most affordable options available, promoting financial well-being without the risks associated with borrowing. 

“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 ease the burden of unexpected financial challenges, allowing our staff to focus on delivering exceptional service. With Paywatch as our trusted partner, we’re making this vision a reality.”  

Paywatch: Championing Fair Financial Access for Filipino Employees

Landers has partnered with Paywatch, the region’s only bank-backed, regulator-approved EWA solution, to promote employee financial well-being. Recognized by the United Nations and central banks for its commitment to financial inclusion and ESG standards, Paywatch supports over 500,000 employees across Malaysia, South Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines. 

Since launching in the Philippines in 2023, Paywatch has seen a 150% surge in interest, following successful roadshows. Other companies adopting Paywatch’s EWA solution include Pick-A-Roo, Kuya J, Wilmar International, Lay Bare and more. “At Paywatch, we’re committed to enhancing employee financial well-being, and our partnership with Landers demonstrates the power of EWA in tackling recruitment challenges in the retail sector. With voluntary turnover in the Philippines rising to 15.9% in 2023, up from 14.2% in 2022, retaining talent is more challenging than ever. Our global success with giants like Lotus’s and Jaya Grocer proves EWA’s effectiveness in reducing turnover. This collaboration affirms EWA’s relevance in improving financial health for Filipino workers,” said Rowell Del Fierro, President of PaywatchPhilippines. 

With this partnership, Landers is setting a new standard in the retail industry, redefining employee benefits while boosting productivity and fostering a financially secure workforce. 

 

For more information about Paywatch, please visithttps://www.paywatchglobal.com/

 

Sam Verzosa Honors Late Father by auctioning Luxury Cars to Fund Dialysis Centers in Manila

Sam Verzosa, TV host and entrepreneur, made the difficult decision to part with ten of his most prized luxury cars, including a Bentley that was his late father’s dream vehicle. This sentimental sacrifice was done to honor his father's memory and fund a Dialysis and Diagnostic Center in Sampaloc, Manila—a cause close to both their hearts. The auction of these luxury cars raised P200 million, which will be used to build the center, aimed at providing life-saving dialysis treatment to people in need.

Sam late father had been a kidney patient who underwent regular dialysis sessions before he passed away. His father's battle with kidney disease was a defining factor in Verzosa’s decision to sell the Bentley, which held immense sentimental value. “It was my father’s dream car. He asked me to buy it for him, but sadly, he passed away before it arrived,” Verzosa shared, reflecting on the emotional connection he had to the car. Although it was difficult to let go, Verzosa knew that his father would have wanted him to make this choice for the greater good.

In the end, I decided to sell it because I know my father would be proud if it helped more people instead of just sitting in the garage. He taught me to give, even when we had nothing,” Verzosa added, recalling how his father’s generosity inspired him to follow this path of service.

The Auction and Its Impact

The auction, dubbed "Driven to Heal: A Fundraising Drive to Construct Dialysis and Diagnostic Centers for Manila," was held in Quezon City on September 29. The event featured a stunning lineup of luxury vehicles, including a Ferrari, Rolls Royce, McLaren, Maserati, Audi, BMW, Lamborghini, and the aforementioned Bentley. Verzosa expressed his gratitude to the private businessmen who purchased the cars, knowing that the funds would go toward helping many Filipinos who struggle with kidney disease and need affordable dialysis treatment.

For Verzosa, this cause is deeply personal. His father’s experience with dialysis opened his eyes to the need for more accessible healthcare options for patients who cannot afford expensive treatments. "People always ask for help, especially with dialysis. Every day, I receive messages from people looking for ways to support their loved ones who are sick," Verzosa explained. “That’s when I realized I needed to do something. Too many families are suffering because they can't afford proper care.”

Verzosa’s decision to sell his luxury cars, especially the Bentley, was more than just a financial gesture—it was an emotional one, rooted in the lessons of generosity that his father instilled in him. Growing up in humble circumstances, Verzosa learned from his father the importance of helping others, even when resources were scarce. This legacy of giving now drives him to make a lasting impact on his community.

“My father always helped others, even when we barely had anything. He would give away his last peso if it meant helping someone in need,” Verzosa recalled. “I know he would be proud of what we’re doing with the proceeds from this auction. It’s about helping more people, not holding on to material things.”

Building More Dialysis Centers for Manila

The funds from the auction will be used to establish the Sampaloc Dialysis and Diagnostic Center, which will offer free or affordable dialysis treatments to patients in Manila. Verzosa’s vision for this project extends beyond just one center—he plans to build similar facilities across the city in areas like Tondo, Quiapo, Malate, Ermita, and Intramuros.

“My dream is to create a network of dialysis centers across Manila,” Verzosa said. “This is just the start. We need more accessible healthcare options for our fellow Filipinos, especially those who can’t afford private treatments.”

Verzosa is also running for mayor of Manila in the upcoming 2025 elections, and if successful, he has promised to prioritize healthcare initiatives like this. His focus is on making healthcare more accessible to all, particularly for those with chronic illnesses that require long-term care. “I grew up here in Manila, and I want to give back to the people of this city. I want to make sure no one is left behind when it comes to healthcare.”

From Businessman to Public Servant

Beyond his charitable work, Verzosa is known for his success in the business world. As the co-founder of Frontrow, one of the Philippines’ leading multi-level marketing companies, Verzosa built a thriving business empire focused on health, beauty, and wellness products. Despite his success, he has always maintained a deep connection to his roots and continues to focus on initiatives that benefit those in need.

Verzosa’s foray into public service has further amplified his desire to give back to his community. As a representative of the Tutok To Win Party-list and the host of the public service show Dear SV, he has consistently used his platform to help underprivileged Filipinos. His political candidacy in the 2025 mayoral race reflects his ambition to create even greater impact for the people of Manila.

“I don’t just want to lead—I want to serve. My goal has always been to make a difference, whether it’s through my business, my charity work, or now through public service,” Verzosa said.

A Lasting Legacy

Sam Verzosa’s decision to auction his luxury cars, particularly the Bentley tied to his father’s memory, speaks volumes about his commitment to helping others. By turning personal loss into a source of hope for countless dialysis patients, Verzosa is building a legacy that honors his father’s values of generosity and selflessness. As he continues his journey in public service, Verzosa remains dedicated to uplifting his fellow Filipinos and creating lasting change in the communities that need it most.

Netflix releases “Outside” key art and photos

Netflix has now released the key art and additional photos for Outside, the streaming platform's first zombie, psychological thriller from the Philippines. 

At the center of the key art is the disheveled family patriarch, Francis (Sid Lucero) wielding a shovel as he buries something in the ground. The image conveys a feeling of unease, capturing how what was once familiar has become mere remnants of a distant, safer past. What remains are attempts to navigate a fragile and unstable reality, with secrets waiting to be uncovered.

This Carlo Ledesma feature promises one thing for certain: tensions will rise, and sanity will be tested. After all: “You can't keep out what's already inside.”

 

Check out some additional stills from the film!

The film boasts an exceptional cast, including Sid Lucero (Smaller and Smaller Circles), Beauty Gonzalez (Izla), and Marco Masa (Beauty and the Bestie), with special appearances by Joel Torre and Enchong Dee.

Outside is directed by Filipino-Australian director Carlo Ledesma, the acclaimed filmmaker known in the industry for his gripping thrillers. Ledesma is best known for his other unsettling features like The Haircut and Sunod.

'Outside' will premiere globally on Netflix on October 17, 2024.

Join the Search for Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happiest Pinoy 2024: Uplifting Filipino Spirit through Stories of Joy and Resilience

Celebrate the resilience and joy of being Filipino with Cebuana Lhuillier’s 'Happiest Pinoy'! From Gen Z to senior citizens, entrepreneurs, and more, this contest showcases inspiring stories of optimism and hope. Let’s spread happiness and recognize those who make a difference. 

After a five-year break, Cebuana Lhuillier has officially relaunched one of its most beloved campaigns, the "Happiest Pinoy," marking the beginning of a new chapter in the search for joy and resilience among Filipinos. This year’s revival of the campaign brings hope, inspiration, and optimism at a time when the need for such qualities has never been more apparent.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier's President and CEO, expressed his excitement for the relaunch, emphasizing the strength of the  Filipino spirit, which has toughened despite the challenges of recent years. "The last few years have been challenging for all of us, but through it all, the unique Filipino spirit—the same spirit we celebrate in this campaign—remained unbreakable. We’ve seen time and again that, despite adversity, Filipinos always find a reason to smile, to be hopeful, and to spread joy," Lhuillier said. He added that the "Happiest Pinoy" campaign shines a light on those who uplift others through their personal stories of optimism and resilience.

The "Happiest Pinoy" aims to celebrate Filipinos who rise above life's challenges and continue to spread positivity. The competition is open to Filipino citizens aged 13 and above, excluding Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). This year, the contest features several categories: Masayahing Gen Z (Youth); Happy at 60 (Senior Citizens); No Way Kapansanan (PWD); Inspiradong Champion (Manggagawa or MNGGW); Bagong Bayani, Hatid Sigla (OFW); Bibo sa Negosyo (Entrepreneur); Proud as Pride (LGBTQIA+) and Creative Pinoy (Creative Arts). This year, the competition has also introduced Special Awards: Katutubo (TRIBO) and Happiest Ka-Cebuana.

In 2019, Zaldy Bueno, a 37 year old public school teacher from Gumaca Quezon won Cebuana Lhuillier’s search for the Happiest Pinoy.  Zaldy, representing the Professional Category, bested other finalists from different categories by virtue of his advocacy to see more children’s lives change through education. 

The grand winner of the search will receive a cash prize of PHP 500,000, with category winners receiving PHP 35,000 each.Special awards’ winners will, meanwhile, receive, PHP 25,000 each.

Applicants can submit their stories via three methods:

• Video Submission: Submit a video entry by downloading the form from the "Happiest Pinoy" social media pages, filling it out, and sending the form along with the video to happiestpinoy2024@gmail.com.

• Google Form: Fill out the official form via the Happiest Pinoy’s social media pages, providing the required details and sharing experiences of optimism and joy.

• Cebuana Lhuillier Branches: Visit any Cebuana Lhuillier branch to get a physical copy of the form, fill it out, and return it to the nearest branch.

The return of the "Happiest Pinoy" competition is a significant moment for Cebuana Lhuillier and the country. As Lhuillier emphasized, this comeback is about more than just finding a winner; it is a celebration of the strength and happiness that define Filipinos. He said, "This campaign isn’t just a search for an individual—it’s a celebration of the strength and happiness that define us as a people."

With this relaunch, Cebuana Lhuillier hopes to continue sharing meaningful stories that uplift the Filipino spirit, demonstrating once again that, no matter the adversity, Filipinos will always choose to find happiness.

 

Illest Now Open: Experience the Ultimate Streetwear at SM The Block!

Get ready to elevate your style game with exclusive drops, fresh designs, and the unmistakable Illest vibe. From streetwear to lifestyle, the iconic brand has officially put up its first standalone store in the city.

The Illest grand opening at SM The Block brought together Manila’s streetwear fans and car culture icons! Special guests like car enthusiast Angie King and Nakira San graced the event.

Illest, the globally renowned Streetwear brand founded by Mark Arcenal in 2009, proudly announces the opening of its first stand-alone store in the Philippines at SM North The Block. This momentous opening not only solidifies Illest’s local presence in the Streetwear scene but also highlights its deep connection to car culture.

 

Since its inception, Illest has captivated streetwear and car enthusiasts around the world, particularly in the United States and Japan. Known for blending fashion with a passion for automotive culture, the brand has become a symbol of authenticity, innovation, and creativity. Through its global reach, Illest has built a dedicated following among fashion-forward and car aficionados alike.

Mark Arcenal, a trailblazer in streetwear and car culture, founded Illest to unite his love for both worlds. His vision of creating a brand that embodies street culture’s spirit has led Illest to global prominence. Now, Mark is bringing his creation back to his roots in the Philippines, sharing his passion for streetwear and cars with a local audience that has embraced both cultures.*

 

Illest has made a notable impact on streetwear and youth culture over the years. Through collaborations with global and local creatives such as Nike, G-Shock, and Beats by Dr. Dre–the brand has contributed to the growth of the country’s vibrant streetwear scene.

More than a retail outlet, the new Illest store is an immersive experience that mirrors the brand’s unique fusion of streetwear and car culture. Featuring exclusive merchandise and carefully curated installations, the store is set to become a hub for Manila’s streetwear and car culture. Every detail of the space reflects the brand’s dedication to delivering an authentic lifestyle experience.

 

And with its opening, Illest is releasing a line of limited-edition tees, designed by Mark Arcenal himself. These exclusive pieces, part of a special Illest x RWB collaboration, will only be available at the new store for limited quantities.

 

In a spectacular celebration of Illest’s deep ties to car culture, the store opening was attended by Akira Nakai, founder of RAUH-Welt Begriff (RWB), and Angie King, founder of Car Porn Racing. Their presence not only elevated the significance of the event but also reaffirmed the brand’s strong connection to the world of automotive customization. Both icons are known for their unique contributions to the global car culture, making their attendance a special highlight of the launch.