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Friday, March 7, 2025

Mary Rose Marbil: A Mother’s Heart That Nurtures Families, Communities, and the Planet

 We all wear many hats — wife, mom, daughter, friend. But sometimes, it’s the quiet things we do for others that become our biggest legacy. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t always make the headlines, but stays — deeply rooted in the people we’ve helped, the lives we’ve touched, and the world we leave behind for our children.

For Mary Rose Marbil, that’s the life she chooses to live every single day — not just as a mother to her daughter or a wife to the country’s top cop, but as a woman who sees every family as an extension of her own. Every police officer’s child, every struggling family, every stray dog — they’ve all become part of her growing circle of care.

As the Adviser of the Philippine National Police - Officers’ Ladies Club Foundation, Inc. (PNP OLC FI), Mary Rose could have taken the ceremonial route. But instead, she chose to use the platform to create lasting impact, supporting police personnel and their families — especially those quietly carrying the burden of service.


Service Rooted in Family and Compassion
One of the Foundation’s key projects is the "LAB Virus" (Love and Blessings Virus) initiative — a program created to extend help to PNP personnel suffering from long-term illnesses or disabilities. The initiative identified over 500 critically ill individuals, most of whom are battling chronic kidney disease and require regular dialysis treatments. With medical costs weighing heavily on these families, the program provided financial aid to help them cover both healthcare expenses and daily needs.

The program also extended its reach to the Bahay Bulilit Day Care Center, where children of PNP personnel were given school supplies and essentials — simple yet meaningful support to help them continue their studies. During one of the Foundation’s events, the children performed for their visitors, creating a heartwarming moment that reflected the community spirit behind the initiative.



Mary Rose and the Foundation aim not just to assist during emergencies but to sustain ongoing support for PNP families. Fundraising activities — including concerts featuring singing PNP personnel — were organized to generate additional resources for the cause.

A Family Built on Faith and Simple Joys
Away from the Foundation’s activities, Mary Rose and General Marbil share a quiet, grounded life centered on family, faith, and their shared love for animals.

The couple’s story goes all the way back to their high school days as classmates at Paco Catholic School. Over the years, their bond strengthened, especially in facing the challenges that come with General Marbil’s career in law enforcement. Together, they raised their only daughter, Robyn, who is now 26 and recently engaged.

Despite his high-ranking position, General Marbil is described as a playful and loving father at home. One of the fondest memories shared by their daughter was seeing her father dancing around their living room to the song “Happy” by Square Heads — a rare glimpse of the man behind the uniform.

Their family is also known for their love of animals. They own a farm in Batangas, where they care for rescue dogs, offering them a safe haven. In fact, their attachment to their pets runs so deep that one of their dogs once gave birth on their bed — a lighthearted memory that captures the home they’ve built together.

Faith also plays an important role in their lives. General Marbil is a devotee of St. Padre Pio and the Simala Shrine in Cebu. A painting of the shrine, which includes their family in the scene, hangs prominently in their dining area — a constant reminder of their gratitude and beliefs.

In a particularly meaningful moment before his appointment as PNP Chief, General Marbil welcomed a blood-stained Padre Pio relic into their home for almost two months. He considered it a blessing, especially when the news of his appointment came just a day before he was scheduled to return the relic.

Turning Environmental Challenges Into Action
Mary Rose’s care extends beyond people — it also includes the environment. Living near Taal Lake exposed her firsthand to the harsh realities of environmental damage.

In 2022 and 2024, Typhoons Paeng and Kristine severely affected their Batangas property. But beyond the storm damage, what left a lasting impact was the sight of 50 to 100 sacks of plastic waste washed ashore from the lake. The volume of debris was enough to collapse their fence, highlighting the growing environmental problem.



This experience inspired Mary Rose to launch zero-plastic initiatives in their community. One effort involved encouraging residents to collect plastic waste in exchange for money, promoting recycling and proper waste management. Additionally, she led tree-planting activities, with nearly 200 native trees like Narra and Talisay planted around Taal Lake and Crater Island to help restore the natural surroundings.

Sustainable Livelihood Through Soap-Making
Recognizing the need for sustainable programs, Mary Rose also spearheaded a soap-making livelihood project — a program designed to teach families and PNP personnel how to create liquid soaps and detergents using locally sourced materials.

The initiative began in Cebu and is now being expanded to include street sweepers in Camp Crame and other regions. The goal is not only to promote sustainability by reducing reliance on commercially produced products with excessive packaging but also to help participants gain a practical skill that can generate income.

The program envisions setting up refilling stations, allowing communities to minimize single-use plastics while supporting their families.

A Life of Purpose, Service, and Family Values
Throughout her work, Mary Rose demonstrates that motherhood and leadership go hand in hand. She balances her responsibilities to her family and community with grace — finding ways to create change, even in small, steady steps.

Her projects reflect what truly matters to her: family, faith, service, and sustainability. Whether it’s supporting the families behind the police force, rescuing animals, planting trees, or helping others build livelihoods, her efforts continue to grow — quietly but powerfully.

Mary Rose Marbil’s Ongoing Initiatives:
✅ LAB Virus Medical Aid Program — providing medical and financial support to critically ill PNP personnel
✅ Bahay Bulilit Educational Support — supporting children of PNP personnel with school supplies and daily needs
✅ Soap-Making and Livelihood Program — teaching families skills for income generation while promoting zero-waste practices
✅ Tree-Planting Drives — restoring environmental balance with native tree species planted around Taal Lake
✅ Animal Rescue and Care — providing a safe haven for rescued dogs at their Batangas farm

Mary Rose Marbil’s story is a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful work happens not in grand gestures, but in the quiet, consistent ways we care — for our families, our communities, and the world we hope to leave behind.




UNIQLO brings you the newest collection this 2025 Spring/Summer season with the release of UNIQLO U

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of the Uniqlo U 2025 Spring/Summer collection, starting March 21st, with presales of some items beginning earlier. Co-Artistic Directors Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, alongside their team in Paris designed the collection by taking a gentle and refreshing approach to the warmer months, with a focus on pastel colors and items for easy movement and comfort. New materials with a softer touch this season enhance a layered style, an essential factor in the Uniqlo U universe. 


Wearing: UNIQLO U Nylon Shoulder Bag, UNIQLO U UV Protection Hat, UNIQLO U Women’s Cotton Hooded Coat, UNIQLO U Women’s Cotton Lyocell Jacket, UNIQLO U Women’s Easy Curved Pants, UNIQLO U Women’s SUPIMA Cotton Sheer Long T/N

 

 


Fresh Pastel Colors

Soft pastels such as cream, yellow, grey, and white hint at the arrival of a new season. A pop purple color to accent the styling is incorporated into this season’s new Denim Bermuda Shorts and Shoulder Bag, giving a fresh impression.

 

Light Fabrics

With their modern designs, the SUPIMA Cotton Sheer Long T-shirt and the SUPIMA Cotton Oversized T-shirt allow for light, layered styles in summer. You can enjoy various styling impressions depending on the color combination.

         



Utility Items 

The men’s Hooded Blouson and women's Cotton Hooded Coat, both with adjustable hoods, have beautiful silhouettes that are impressive, and make for genderless items. The lineup of everyday items such as the practical, water-repellent Shoulder Bag and the UV Protection Hat ensure cozy and comfortable days.

 

 

Collection

The lineup includes 20 items for women, 22 items for men, and 3 items for accessories. However the majority of the collection is designed to be genderless.


Lineup and Pricing 

Items

Prices (tax incl.)

Items

Prices (tax incl.)

Outerwear

Php 2990 - Php 6990

Knits

Php 1290 - Php 1990

Pants & Skirts 

Php 1290 - Php 2490

Dresses

Php 1990 - Php 2490

Shirts

Php 1990 - Php 2490

Accessories

Php 1490    

Cut & Sewn items

Php 590 - Php 2490

 

 

 

Note: The above prices are provisional and subject to change

 

Special Website:https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/women/special-collaboration/uniqlo-u

 

 

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 around the globe.

PLDT Home Prepaid WiFi Rebranded as Smart Bro, Introducing Enhanced Data Offers and Perks

 PLDT Home WiFi has rebranded to Smart Home WiFi as it reinforces its thrust to make high-speed and reliable connectivity even more accessible to Filipinos residing in fiber-limited areas.


Under the Smart Home WiFi brand is the new Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi, a plug-and-play WiFi device that lets users connect up to 15 devices simultaneously to Smart’s fast and reliable 5G network.

 

Available for only P1,995, the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFiis quick to set up at home, dorm, or small office. And because it’s a prepaid device, users will only need to top up or reload the device when necessary - this means there’s no need to worry about bill shock or going over one’s budget.


UNLI and all-new BIG DATA offers

 

Smart Home WiFi users can make the most of the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi with UNLI or the all-new BIG DATA offers that give users more value-for-money as they connect for work, school, small business, or simply entertainment.

 

UNLI 1299 comes with unlimited internet valid for 30 days, best for worry-free surfing. This offer is perfect for multi-gadget users and families. For only P1299, parents can remain on top of their work while their children are on their gadgets streaming movies, playing their favorite mobile games, or researching for their homework.


On the other hand, BIG DATA is for those who need access to all sites and apps at more affordable prices. BIG DATA 199 comes with a total of 52 GB data (45 GB + 1 GB a day for seven days) valid for seven days, perfect for a heavy week at work, school, or small businesses. 

 

Also available are BIG DATA 299 with a total of 72 GB data (65 GB + 1 GB a day for seven days) valid for 7 days, and BIG DATA 999 with a total of 250 GB data (220 GB + 1 GB a day for 30 days) valid for 30 days.

 

These Smart Home WiFi new offers are also open to existing PLDT Prepaid Home WiFi 5G+ and LTE Home WiFi subscribers.

 

Powered by Smart 5G network

 

To get the Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFisimply  order via the Smart Online Store, Smart official pages in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok, or head to the nearest Smart Store or authorized Smart retailers nationwide.

 

Smart Home WiFi users can stay on top of their Smart 5G Max Turbo WiFi device by downloading the Smart App and linking their account to conveniently manage their account, and top up with their preferred data offers that suit their needs. Data offers may also be availed via e-wallets and through suki retailers.

 

Smart Home WiFi is powered by Smart’s superior 5G network, which empowers users with blazing fast speeds so they can stream videos seamlessly, upload and download heavy files in seconds, instantly post and share content online, and play mobile games without lag.  

Tamashii Nations Launches First Philippine Pop-Up Spot at Robinsons Magnolia, Showcasing Exclusive Collectibles

 TAMASHII NATIONS is bringing the first Tamashii Nations Pop-up Spot in the Philippines & its world-renowned collectibles showcase to Manila! 


Robinsons Magnolia will be transformed into the ultimate destination for toy collectors, anime fans, and pop culture enthusiasts. This highly anticipated event offers a rare opportunity to see exclusive figure displays, interactive zones, and event-only merchandise, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about premium collectibles.

The Grand Return of Voltes V – A Tribute to Filipino Fans

One of the biggest highlights of the event is the debut statue of Voltes V Legacy, sculpted based on the design of THE ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE SUPER> VOLTES V merchandise from Tamashii Nations. Alongside, there will also be an exclusive Voltes V showcase, a tribute to the super robot’s enduring legacy in the Philippines. Fans can marvel at stunning displays featuring the Soul of Chogokin and Robot Spirits series, showcasing the evolution of this beloved mecha over the years.

A true centerpiece of the event is the SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-31SP VOLTES V CHOGOKIN 50th Ver., an event-exclusive collectible that pays homage to five decades of Chogokin craftsmanship. Alongside it, the THE ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE SUPER> VOLTES V figure will also be on display, offering fans another stunning rendition of the iconic super robot. These commemorative releases are also available for purchase at the event. 

Chogokin's 50th Anniversary Showcase
Join us in celebrating the remarkable 50th anniversary of Chogokin! 
This special display invites you to explore the iconic signature items from each Chogokin brand, as well as your iconic series like “Mazinger Z” & “Gaogaigar”. In addition, the showcase features a variety of innovative products released in recent years. Immerse yourself in the rich diversity and unique play value that Chogokin has to offer. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this showcase promises a captivating journey through the world of Chogokin toys.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the past and future of Chogokin!

“JUMP” into the World of Your Favorite Anime Heroes
Beyond mecha and Chogokin, the event will also cater to Weekly Shonen Jump fans with interactive zones dedicated to legendary anime series. The Jump Character Series Zone will feature life-sized statues and dynamic displays from Dragon Ball, One Piece & Naruto, giving fans a chance to capture memorable moments with their favorite characters. A special highlight is the human-sized Naruto Uzumaki statue, sculpted based on the S.H.Figuarts series, making it a prime attraction for Naruto enthusiasts.

Exclusive Collectibles & Special Shopping Perks
Of course, no TAMASHII NATIONS event would be complete without the chance to grab exclusive, event-only merchandise. Attendees can get their hands on highly sought-after figures, including:

METAL BUILD EVANGELION 01 TEST TYPE CHOGOKIN 50th Exclusive 

METAL BUILD, a product commemorating the 50th anniversary CHOGOKIN, has released EVANGELION 01 TEST TYPE with a composite texture of plating, clear, and metallic coloring. The Lance of Longinus is reproduced with red plating. The base is a special design for this product, featuring the CHOGOKIN 50th anniversary logo.


METAL ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE MS>WING GUNDAM ZERO CHOGOKIN 50th Exclusive
WING GUNDAM ZERO from the CHOGOKIN 50th Anniversary METAL ROBOT SPIRITS has been commercialized with a two-tone red and gold plating, red metallic paintwork, and a composite texture of clear red parts. The base has a unique design for this product, featuring the CHOGOKIN 50th Anniversary logo.

SUPER SAIYAN GOD SUPER SAIYAN VEGITO 

SUPER SAIYAN GOD SUPER SAIYAN VEGITO returns to S.H.Figuarts with colors inspired by his blinding aura! Pearl paint has been used to recreate the radiance of his aura! Effects for both the aura as well as the Kamehameha attack are included!


S.H.Figuarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Masked Rider Kabuto Rider Form 

Masked Rider Kabuto Rider Form is now released as this anniversary item with an added display stand with a design arranged with the Shinkocchou Seihou logo. We have re-interpreted the suit colors from the TV series and have re-defined the coloring for a product with a special specification worthy of the Shinkocchou Seihou 10-year anniversary!


For those looking to expand their collections, the pop-up store will also offer a selection of rare items originally sold exclusively at Tamashii Nations Store and Tamashii Spot.
Adding to the excitement, fans who make qualifying purchases will receive limited-edition premiums, making this event an even more rewarding experience for collectors.

TAMASHII NATIONS STORE items 

TAMASHII NATIONS STORE - Official flagship stores established by TAMASHII NATIONS in Japan, China, and USA, display the latest figures with limited edition items available for purchase in these stores as well as exclusively available in official showrooms, “TAMASHII SPOT”.



THE ROBOT SPIRITS

<SIDE MS>RX-78-2 GUNDAM
ver. A.N.I.M.E. -Real Marking-

THE ROBOT SPIRITS

<SIDE MS> MS-06 ZAKUMASS PRODUCTION MODEL ver. A.N.I.M.E. -Real Marking-

S.H.Figuarts

ANYA FORGER -Another Color Ver.-

S.H.Figuarts

YUJI ITADORI 

[BEST SELECTION]


S.H.Figuarts

ULTRAMAN [BEST SELECTION] -STORE LIMITED EDITION-

S.H.Figuarts

Trigger Truth

S.H.Figuarts

Spider-Man (Miles Morales) (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) -1610 ROOFTOP VER.-

S.H.Figuarts

Spider-Gwen (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) -1610 ROOFTOP VER.-



 


FiguartsZERO 

Monkey・D・Luffy -Battle ver. (Special Color Edition)

FiguartsZERO TONYTONY.CHOPPER

(Special Color Edition)

S.H.Figuarts 

NARUTO UZUMAKI -Battle Scarred Edition-

FiguartsZERO

NARUTO UZUMAKI -RASENGAN- KIZUNA Relation -Special Color Edition-


S.H.Figuarts

SON GOKU -Innocent Challenger-

S.H.Figuarts

SUPER SAIYAN GOKU -Z FIGHTER-

S.H.Figuarts

SUPER SAIYAN 2 SON GOKU

 

TAMASHII STAGE

DRAGON BALL -Store Limited Edition-


CHOGOKIN

CHOGOKIN ROBO 50

S.H.Figuarts

CHAINSAW MAN [BEST SELECTION]

S.H.Figuarts

SAILOR MOON-Animation Color Edition- [BEST SELECTION]

S.H.Figuarts

OMEGAMON [BEST SELECTION]

 

More Than Just an Exhibit—A Celebration of Collectibles!

Beyond the impressive displays and exclusive items, TAMASHII NATIONS Pop-Up Spot in Philippines will feature special activities, limited-time offers, and interactive experiences, ensuring that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories. Whether you're a dedicated toy collector, an anime enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the artistry behind these figures, this event is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience TAMASHII NATIONS in Manila.

Don’t miss out! Mark your calendars and get ready to witness legendary collectibles, larger-than-life displays, and exclusive merchandise, all in one epic event. TAMASHII NATIONS Pop-Up Spot in Philippines is finally here, and it’s an experience no fan should miss!

TAMASHII NATIONS

Based in Tokyo, Japan, TAMASHII NATIONS is Bandai’s premier collectible brand dedicated to producing high-quality figures, including METAL BUILD, S.H.Figuarts, Soul of Chogokin, and The Robot Spirits series.


For more information and updates, visit:

Official Facebook “Tamashii Nations South Asia”https://www.facebook.com/Tamashii.Nations.South.Asia

BANDAI SPIRITS Co., Ltd. Collectors Toy Department Official HP

https://tamashii.jp/

PAL Business Class Awaits—Just Connect Your Mabuhay Miles via Maya!

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