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Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Beat the Heat with TCL’s Cool Truck Tour – Intramuros to Trinoma This May

 Escaping from the blazing sun has become a daily mission for many Filipinos. Likewise, extreme heat's impact on our everyday lives has disrupted our routines, and rising electricity costs have become a regular occurrence. As the Philippines experiences and endures one of its hottest summers on record, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, we are given limited access to public cooling areas, finding relief in packed malls and enclosed venues.

The TCL Cool Truck provides a refreshing escape from the scorching sun, featuring the FreshIN 3.0 for an unparalleled cool and comfortable experience.

Recognizing this growing problem, TCL, the newly crowned Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand and a trusted name in home appliances, stepped up with an innovative response: the first-ever TCL Cool Truck in the Philippines, a mobile cooling experience designed to bring instant comfort directly to the people.

The TCL Cool Truck activation is a strategic initiative designed to showcase the power and innovation of the newly launched FreshIN 3.0. By bringing TCL’s advanced air conditioning technology to high-traffic areas like Trinoma Mall and Intramuros, the Cool Truck transformed everyday locations into much-needed cooling zones for Filipinos on the go. Visitors experienced firsthand how TCL’s next generation of air conditioners deliver powerful relief from the sweltering heat, turning the truck into a popular destination for both comfort and entertainment. Serving as a mobile showroom, the Cool Truck brings the product closer to consumers, allowing them to literally feel the difference with TCL’s upgraded cooling technology. 

TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez also shared, "The TCL Cool Truck was our way of meeting Filipinos where they are, right in the middle of this record-breaking heat. We wanted people to experience firsthand how our air conditioning technology delivers real comfort, not just in showrooms, but in everyday spaces. By creating a cool, welcoming environment on wheels, we gave visitors a refreshing escape and a clear sense of how TCL provides practical, energy-efficient relief when it’s needed most. By featuring FreshIN 3.0 in action, especially its offline voice command control, we're offering a real solution to beat the summer heat while reinforcing TCL’s commitment to smart, convenient, and refreshing living.

Inside the Cool Lounge

Stepping inside the TCL Cool Truck was like entering a refreshing oasis, designed to beat the oppressive summer heat. The truck's interior was ingeniously divided into distinct "rooms," each showcasing TCL’s impressive range of appliances. Upon entering, visitors were immediately greeted by the TCL FreshIN 3.0 inverter air conditioners, which took center stage, demonstrating the standout features that make this model truly revolutionary.

Visitors enjoy a productive co-working space with free Wi-Fi while experiencing TCL FreshIN 3.0’s features, including Offline Voice Control, T-AI 37%+ Energy Saving Technology, and QuadruPuri Filters.

In the foyer, guests can utilize the area as a co-working space as it offers free Wi-Fi for those working remotely, making it a productive environment for all the visitors, especially for students and freelancers. Likewise, they can also get to experience the ease of Offline Voice Control of the TCL FreshIn 3.0, a feature that lets you adjust your air conditioner with simple voice commands like “Hey TCL, lower the temperature,” even without a Wi-Fi connection. The room felt instantly cooler as visitors experienced the power of T-AI 37%+ Energy Saving Technology, which allows the FreshIN 3.0 to adapt to changing environments, optimizing energy use and helping lower electricity costs. For added peace of mind, the QuadruPuri Filters worked silently in the background, filtering out pollutants, allergens, and bacteria, while the ultra-quiet 16dB operation ensured a soothing atmosphere without disruptions.

Inside the Book Nook Area of the TCL Cool Truck, visitors unwind in a cool, refreshing space, perfect for reading, relaxing, or creating content.

Moving further into the truck, the Book Nook Area offered a serene space for visitors to relax with a book or create social media content while enjoying the refreshing environment of the FreshIN 3.0. The air was crisp and revitalizing, with FreshIN Technology drawing in fresh outdoor air to keep the space cool and well-oxygenated. Pet owners particularly appreciated how the unit eliminated odors and maintained a balanced humidity level, ensuring a natural, fresh atmosphere.

Adding an element of interactive fun, visitors eagerly participated in the Icy Reflex game where participants can join a quick reflex game and get a chance to win exclusive TCL merchandise. It was a refreshing reminder that staying cool can be smart, interactive, and fun, just like TCL FreshIn 3.0.

TCL brings refreshing relief to Filipinos on the go, transforming high-traffic areas into cooling havens with the TCL Cool Truck.

The TCL Cool Truck initiative successfully brought TCL’s innovative cooling technology directly to consumers, allowing them to experience the unique features of the FreshIN 3.0 firsthand. By creating these mobile "cool down zones," TCL effectively demonstrated its commitment to providing innovative, energy-efficient solutions to combat the summer heat. Visitors across Metro Manila left with a clear understanding that TCL is leading the way in comfort, convenience, and sustainability, offering more than just a cool retreat, but a smarter, healthier, and more efficient way to stay cool.

Feeling the heat? The TCL Cool Truck is making its coolest stops! Catch it at the historic Fort Santiago, Intramuros from May 10-17, and then head over to Trinoma Mall from May 18-24 for a refreshing experience!

TCL offers a range of smart home appliances, including large QLED TVs, advanced refrigerators, innovative air conditioners, and efficient washing machines.

For more information, visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.

Watsons’ Great Health Fest 2025 Starts May 12 at SM Mall of Asia

 Watsons, the country’s leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, officially launched The Great Health Fest 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on May 12. This event drew thousands of health-conscious Filipinos eager to take part in the country’s biggest health and wellness fest. Running until May 17, the six-day event delivers exciting deals, expert-led wellness experiences, and free health services that power up every lifestyle.

Now in its second year, The Great Health Fest 2025 kicked off with a bang, featuring over 40 trusted health and beauty brands offering up to 80% off exclusively on health and wellness essentials during the event. Watsons also featured up to ₱1 million worth of prizes from partner brands and interactive booths, making health fun for everyone. Visitors enjoyed free health consultations, informative wellness talks from health professionals and brand ambassadors, and exclusive engagement activities for Watsons Club members—all designed to help Filipinos make smarter, more empowered choices for their health and well-being.

Participating Brands include Watsons Generics, Unilab, RiteMed, Habit, NutriXpert, Galderma, Hisamitsu, Omron, and many others, showcasing a wide range of products and services that support Watsons’ mission to make health and wellness more accessible for every Filipino. 

(L-R) Watsons Group Senior Category Manager Darcy Co;  Health Business Unit, Finance, Property and Store Development Director Joweeh Liao; and Senior AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability Sharon Decapia

Beyond the event, Watsons reinforces its position as a trusted and leading health and wellness partner by continuously strengthening its pharmacy operations and expanding access to essential healthcare supplies and services. This includes increasing the availability of prescription and maintenance medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements, and health equipment, while enhancing in-store services such as free doctor consultations, vaccination services, blood pressure monitoring, and personalized pharmacist advice. At the SM Mall of Asia (MOA 7) Ground Floor branch, customers can conveniently avail of 2025 vaccines, including 2025 Flu, Pneumonia 13, Pneumonia 23, HPV 4, HPV 9, and Hepatitis B.

To further improve convenience and accessibility, Watsons is opening more 24/7 branches in communities nationwide and investing in pharmacist training, ensuring expert care is always within reach. All these efforts support Watsons’ commitment to delivering affordable, quality healthcare solutions that empower every Filipino to take charge of their health.

Watsons is also enhancing convenience through its online and offline channels. With over 1,100 Watsons stores nationwide and the Watsons App, shopping for health and wellness essentials has never been easier. Customers can also avail of the Click & Collect and delivery services, allowing them to access the products and pharmacy services they need, anytime and anywhere.

Watsons Great Health Fest 2025 featuring over 40 trusted health and beauty brands offering up to 80% off exclusively on health and wellness essentials during the six-day event

Consultation Room

The Great Health Fest 2025 reflects Watsons’ steadfast commitment to improving community health and well-being by promoting smarter health choices and making wellness more accessible. Through initiatives like this, we stay true to our promise to help customers look good, do good, and feel great, while continuously supporting our communities. This also reinforces Watsons’ position as a trusted health and pharmacy retail partner, committed to delivering quality, affordable healthcare solutions to every Filipino,” said Joweeh Liao, Health Business Unit, Finance, Property and Store Development Director.

Following the successful launch in SM Mall of Asia, Watsons is set to bring The Great Health Fest 2025 to even more communities, with upcoming stops at SM Fairview (May 21–27), SM Pampanga (May 29–June 4), and SM Seaside Cebu (June 30–July 6). This will ensure that more Filipinos can enjoy exclusive deals, wellness activities, and expert guidance closer to home.

A short workout session headed by fitness-influencer Lexi Noval

Kim Atienza for Sante Barley Segment

Actor and Accetafein ambassador Dennis Trillo serenading the shoppers


Watsons Philippines Officials and Executives

Missed the celebration at SM Mall of Asia? You can still join in! Download and shop through the Watsons App, available on the App Store or Google Play.  Enjoy other exciting health and wellness deals, with exclusive offers and discounts available also on the app. Whether you need health essentials, pharmacy services, or expert advice, Watsons—your trusted health and pharmacy retail partner- has everything you need to stay on top of your health, beauty, and wellness goals.

Be a Watsons Club Member Now! Unlock a world of exclusive perks when you join Watsons Club today! Earn points every time you shop, enjoy special discounts and offers both online via the Watsons App and offline through your favorite Watsons store, and get access to exciting members-only events like concerts, movie screenings, and more.

Ever Bilena Awards P250K Business Packages to Boxing Champs Nesthy Petecio and Kenneth Llover

 

Two of the Philippines' brightest boxing stars, Nesthy Petecio and Kenneth Llover, recently visited the Ever Bilena (EB) Head Office, where they were warmly welcomed by CEO Dioceldo Sy and the EB family. The visit was a celebration of their incredible achievements in the boxing ring and a tribute to their shared stories of resilience, family devotion, and national pride.

Both athletes, known not only for their victories but also for their humility and heart, were honored with ₱250,000 Ever Bilena direct sales business packages each—recognizing their commitment to uplifting their families through hard work and perseverance. They also received gift packs featuring products from Ever Bilena’s diverse portfolio, including Blackwater and BW Women.

(L-R) Ever Bilena president and CEO Dioceldo Sy with 2024 Olympics bronze medalist Nesthy Petecio


Nesthy Petecio, a trailblazer in Philippine boxing, holds a silver medal from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a bronze from the Paris 2024 Olympics. Coming from humble beginnings in Davao del Sur, Nesthy shared how her journey was never about fame, but about fighting for her family. She has also proven that women can rise in male-dominated arenas. During her visit, she was pleasantly surprised to learn that Blackwater and BW Women are proudly part of the Ever Bilena Group, too! "Akala ko makeup lang ang Ever Bilena! Pati pala Blackwater is under EB, nakakatuwa po ang suporta nyo sa mga atleta," Nesthy remarked.

(L-R) OPBF Bantamweight champion Kenneth Llover and 2024 Olympics bronze medalist Nesthy Petecio

Meanwhile, Kenneth Llover, the undefeated OPBF Bantamweight Champion with a spotless 14-0 record (9 KOs), also shared his story—from street sparring in Cavite to standing tall on the international stage. Like Nesthy, Kenneth's driving force has always been his family.

"Naging paraan ang boxing para tulungan ang pamilya ko," he shared. Kenneth also revealed his long-time customer loyalty to Blackwater, saying, "Gamit ko palagi yun gray na deo spray (Dark Pleasure) since high school pa. Binibili ko lang sa mall, tapos ngayon si Blackwater na sumusuporta sa akin, spinonsoran pa presscon ko!"

The two champions connected deeply over their shared values, having risen from hardship, fighting with heart, and carrying the Philippine flag with pride every time they step into the ring.

Dioceldo Sy, known for his advocacy in empowering Filipinos through entrepreneurship and sports, expressed his admiration: "Nesthy and Kenneth embody the true spirit of a champion. Not just in victory, but in character. Ever Bilena and Blackwater have always believed in supporting individuals who are dedicated to their passions, and empower them to live beautiful lives."

The business packages awarded to Nesthy and Kenneth reflect Ever Bilena’s ongoing commitment to uplifting individuals beyond their careers, providing them with opportunities to build sustainable futures for their loved ones.

As Nesthy prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Kenneth eyes another world title shot, both athletes left Ever Bilena HQ with more than just gifts, they left with boosted inspiration from the backing of a company that shares their passion for purpose-driven success.

"Brew, Cheers, and Birthday Wishes: Celebrate Darren with City Cafe & 7-Eleven!

 

7-Eleven is known in the Philippines as the kapitbahay’s reliable go-to for their every need, providing daily essentials, tasty snacks, and bold, everyday coffee habits through 7-Eleven City Cafe. Now, it's bringing coffee and community together with the launch of City Cafe’s Bestie’s Birthday Brew for Darren.

7-Eleven City Cafe recently introduced its most charming brand character, CC, along with its newest coffee bestie, Darren Espanto. The dynamic and multi-talented celebrity perfectly represents 7-Eleven City Cafe lovers who need a boost of real coffee in their daily lives. Following this successful launch, 7-Eleven is going all out for Darren’s ultimate birthday bash, and all his fans are invited.

100 lucky winners will receive an all-access pass to the exclusive fan meet, where they can get up close and personal with their idol. To join, customers simply need to make 7-Eleven City Cafe a part of their everyday coffee habit and register in the e-raffle promo:

        Purchase a City Cafe hot drink of any flavor and size. Each cup comes with a Darren sticker to collect.

        First-time joiners can get a collector’s card from the counter at any 7-Eleven City Cafe-served store nationwide.

        Collect 30 stickers to earn one (1) e-raffle entry.

        Register via the CLiQQ app or the website.

      CLiQQ app users: Present the app barcode and completed collector’s card to the cashier to be scanned.

      Non-CLiQQ users: Scan the QR code on the collector’s card to access https://711ccdarrenfanmeet.com, fill out the required information, and upload a photo of the completed card.

In addition to the 100 lucky fans, limited-edition photocards will be awarded to 3 winners, and customers who purchase any large City Cafe drink will receive a Darren fan as a freebie just in time for the hot season. Don’t miss the chance to collect stickers and register today until May 20, 2025 only. Join 7-Eleven City Cafe in celebrating Darren’s birthday with bold brews—where every cup brings fans closer to meeting their favorite coffee bestie.

Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

Watsons May Sale is Here: Score Up to 50% Off and Buy 1 Take 1 Across the Philippines!

 It’s that time of the year again! Get ready for the shopping event of the season as Watsons, the Philippines’ leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, launches its highly anticipated May Nationwide Sale from May 15 to 18. This four-day sale is happening in all Watsons stores nationwide and online via the Watsons App. It promises unbeatable discounts and exciting rewards that shoppers won’t want to miss.

Enjoy up to 50% off and Buy 1, Take 1 deals on a wide range of must-haves—from cult-favorite skincare and cosmetics to everyday health essentials. Among the top participating brands are Olay, Garnier, Maybelline, Snail White, Creamsilk, L’Oréal, and Watsons Brand, alongside trusted wellness names like Watsons Generics, Poten-Cee, Berocca, Ceelin, and Neurobion. Whether you’re replenishing your staples or trying something new, it’s the perfect time to refresh your beauty cabinet and medicine kit.

 

For Watsons Club members, even more perks await. Members get early access to the Online Preview Sale on May 14 exclusively via the Watsons App, plus an additional 10% discount when they spend at least ₱5,000. The sale also features member-exclusive promos, rewarding loyal shoppers with extra savings and exclusive freebies.


Planning to shop big? Watsons makes it easier with a Buy Now, Pay Later option through BDO Credit Card, available at 0% interest for three months with a minimum ₱5,000 purchase. Shoppers can also enjoy exclusive bank offers, such as ₱100 cashback from RCBC when they spend at least ₱2,000 using their RCBC Credit Card, in-store or online. Likewise, Metrobank Credit Card users get ₱100 cashback with a minimum spend of ₱2,000 online or in-store, giving you more value for every peso you spend.

 

Watsons offers a seamless online experience through the app, with Express Delivery and Click & Collect options for those who prefer to shop from the comfort of their homes. 

 

Whether you're shopping for everyday essentials, trying out trending products, or getting a head start on gift shopping, Watsons’ May Nationwide Sale is your ticket to the season's biggest deals and most exciting rewards. So head to your nearest Watsons store or shop online via the Watsons App. This is a shopping spree you won’t want to miss.

The Roger Federer Collection: UNIQLO's Latest Sportswear Line

 

Saturday, May 10, 2025

Singapore Diagnostics earns triple honors at Healthcare Asia Awards 2025

 Wins Diagnostics Provider of the Year for the third time, alongside Facilities and ICT accolades


Healthcare institutions from across the region gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, last April 10, for the Healthcare Asia Awards 2025, which honor organizations leading innovation and excellence in patient care. Among this year’s winners was Singapore Diagnostics (SGD), a leading medical laboratory in the Philippines, which earned three awards, including Diagnostics Provider of the Year, marking its third consecutive win in the category.

SGD also received recognition for Facilities Improvement Initiative of the Year and ICT Initiative of the Year, underscoring its comprehensive efforts to modernize diagnostics and improve access to quality healthcare.

SGD, the Philippine subsidiary of Singapore-based Pathology Asia Holdings, and a provider adhering to the stringent standards of College of American Pathologists (CAP) accreditation, has expanded significantly since its establishment in 2013. Prior to the pandemic, SGD served approximately 800,000 patients annually. Today, the company operates across 60 locations and supports over two million patients a year.

One of its key initiatives is the groundbreaking SGD's Home Service Laboratory, offering mobile phlebotomy services. By simply calling a local hotline, patients can schedule licensed professionals to collect samples at their homes and deliver them to SGD labs for processing, eliminating the need for hospital and laboratory visits, and significantly improving convenience.

The company has also invested in workforce development through its Credentialing Program, which provides specialized training in hematology, immunochemistry, and microbiology. In 2024 alone, SGD’s medical technologists completed 359 training modules, equipping its team with up-to-date technical expertise.

SGD’s award-winning ICT Initiative includes the launch of e-SLIP (Electronic Single Laboratory Integration Platform), which connects laboratory systems, reduces turnaround time, and minimizes human error. Today, SGD is the send-out partner for more than 800 laboratories nationwide, thanks to its interoperability and strong digital infrastructure.

The company also continues to explore new technologies to improve diagnostics delivery in both urban and underserved areas, supporting its goal of improving accessibility and patient outcomes.

Beyond its own facilities, SGD has supported hospital transformation efforts, most notably at VisayasMed (formerly Visayas Community Medical Center) in Cebu. Since taking over laboratory operations in 2024, SGD has modernized the hospital’s diagnostics systems, upgraded equipment, and retrained staff. As a result, patient cases and test volumes grew double-digit, turn-around times for routine test results were significantly shortened, and patient outcomes and revenue improved significantly.

SGD is at the forefront of driving innovation and expanding access to high-quality diagnostics in the Philippines. Its latest accolades from the Healthcare Asia Awards reaffirm its position as a leader, driven by a mission to make high-quality healthcare more affordable and accessible for all Filipinos.

To know more about SGD, visit www.singaporediagnostics.com.

 

Friday, May 9, 2025

John Hay Hotels Introduce New Service Charge Policy Aimed at Supporting Long-Term Employees

  In a major shift aimed at improving staff welfare at the iconic accommodations in the Philippine summer capital of Baguio, John Hay Hotels—formerly The Manor and The Forest Lodge—have announced the implementation of a 5% service charge for the first time in its history, which already started implementation since March 1, 2025.


This move, led by Landco Lifestyle Ventures (LLV), marks a shift in how hospitality workers are valued at one of Baguio’s most iconic destinations. Despite years of consistently delivering quality service, hotel staff had never before received a service charge.


“Our people have always been the heart of the John Hay Hotels experience,” said Patrick C. Gregorio, Head of Landco Lifestyle Ventures. “This long-overdue service change is about fairness. It ensures our team shares in the value they help create—while also helping us sustain the exceptional level of service our guests expect.”


The service charge will go directly to the hotel’s employees, many of whom have worked behind the scenes for decades. Gregorio further expounded that the service charge for John Hotels staff not only helps boost morale, but also strengthens the hotel’s commitment to meaningful hospitality rooted in malasakit—genuine care.


“During our guests’ stay with us, our staff will be working continuously to deliver the outstanding hospitality that our guestsdeserve,” Gregorio stated. “We ask for our guests’ support in this initiative. This small contribution directly enhances the lives of our team, and helps us continue providing heartfelt, exceptional service.”


The service change is part of a broader management transformation under LLVthe hospitality arm of Landco Pacific Corporation and part of the Metro Pacific Investments Group Inc. helmed by Chairman Manuel V. Pangalinan.


LLV took over interim operations of John Hay Hotels through the Bases Conversion and Development Authority. Alongside upgrades in infrastructure, guest offerings, and training programs, the John Hay Hotels are also investing in its people—positioning the hotels not just as world-class destinations, but as a workplace that values dignity and shared success.


For John Hay Hotels inquiries and reservations, guests can call (074) 637 4720 | (074) 637 472(+63) 939 986 4120; email: reservationsatmanor@campjohnhayhotels.com; visit Landco Lifestyle Ventures website https://www.llv.com.ph/official; and socials on FB:  https://www.facebook.com/TheJohnHayHotels  IG: https://www.instagram.com/thejohnhayhotels/ ; TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejohnhayhotels #

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