Author: Thoney Pascual

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Catriona Gray and Taiwan Excellence’s LOHAS Lifestyle Make Their Philippine Debut at Market! Market!

The three-day LOHAS Days event, organized by Taiwan Excellence, began on September 12 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! with the formal kickoff. The event’s goal is to encourage Filipinos to adopt a LOHAS lifestyle. Upon her official introduction as a Taiwan LOHAS Advocate, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray held a press conference that kicked off the event.

Group photo of brand representatives for LOHAS Days. From left to right: Fu Bear, Arnold Wilson (Marketing Manager, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate), Sky Pichay (_, JK Fitness), Armin Lavilla (Aropec), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Alex Lai (Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Manila), Markki Stroem, Catriona Gray, Steve Chen (Chief Operating Officer, Starbia), Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper)

This was a huge deal for Taiwan, as it was an opportunity to showcase their sustainability and wellness technologies to the people of the Philippines. In a show of solidarity, senior executives from Taiwanese institutions and well-known health businesses were there.

Invigorating the audience and signifying Taiwan’s dramatic debut into the wellness scene in the Philippines, the press conference started with a lively cheer dance performance set to the anthem of Taiwan’s professional baseball team.

“Taiwan is serious about health.” The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. A lofty goal, Healthy Taiwan, is being advocated for by our government. One of the world’s top three producers of fitness equipment, Taiwan is also known as the Bicycle Kingdom. I hope you enjoy your surroundings and have a great time with your loved ones.

Bringing over 30 unique items, 17 Taiwanese enterprises have participated in the LOHAS movement, according to Mr. Alex Lai, Director of the Taiwan Trade Center Manila. The Taiwan Excellence Awards have honored innovation, one of Taiwan’s most cherished characteristics. The conviction that innovation improves people’s lives is the foundation of every award.

Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, spoke on the importance of the LOHAS movement in the Philippines.

According to Miss Catriona Gray, who is very enthusiastic about the movement:

I’ve always looked up to Taiwan because of how seriously it takes health and fitness issues. The sharing of LOHAS in the Philippines serves as a powerful reminder that we can all adopt a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

During the launch ceremony, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Ms. Anne Constantino, spoke about her time working with the smart workout equipment firm Johnson Fitness, based in Taiwan. Aropec, Vinxper, Starbia, and JK Fitness are among the other Taiwanese brands that are on board with the project.

First Day: What to Do

On September 12, Market! Market! came alive all day long as participants in LOHAS Days could enjoy free fitness activities like spin classes, yoga, and high-energy body combat.

At LOHAS Days, you may find wellness seminars and exercise classes, but you can also peruse a wide array of cutting-edge items from renowned Taiwanese firms. These products demonstrate the seamless integration of technology and sustainability into everyday life:

The XTC SLR 29 from Giant features their superior ALUXX SLR aluminum frame, which is known for its exceptional lightness, stiffness, and durability. This frame guarantees stability, speed, and assured handling on any terrain.
Makalot is an AI-powered motion tracking suit that uses dependable sensors and algorithms to precisely record joint motion and angles in AR/VR and animation.

The Swift Edge 14 AI from Acer is designed to be both creative and productive, with a long battery life of up to 21 hours.

FECA’s Slam Dunk Basketball Kit showcases their magic suction technology and provides a flexible, sturdy, and environmentally friendly play area for individuals of all ages.

The Power Hydrate Face Essence by Annie’s Way is a non-sticky, ultra-fast-absorbing face serum that revitalizes, hydrates, and refreshes the skin with a blend of green tea and retinol.

JoJoin us at the Ayala Malls Market for the Lohas Games!et in the game!

At Taguig City’s Ayala Malls Market! Market! LOHAS Days will keep going till September 14. Visitors can participate in fitness classes, wellness seminars, interactive displays, and product showcases that highlight Taiwan’s health and sustainability innovations. There will be fun things for the whole family and fitness fanatics to do, including meeting the event’s lovable mascot, FuBear.

Check out Taiwan Excellence PH’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph for more details about LOHAS Days.

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“Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.” Ayon sa Celebrity Moms sa Hirap ng Back-To-School Season

School’s officially back, and with it the early mornings, baon prep, never-ending shopping lists, and long days for parents—especially moms. In the newest episode of Mommy, G Ka Na?, celebrity host and mom of two Jolina Magdangal-Escueta opens up about the pressure of balancing her numerous responsibilities during the back-to-school season.

Jolina Magdangal, Dimples Romana, and Angeline Quinto share how GCash helps provide everyday gaan for moms

Together with guests Dimples Romana and Angeline Quinto, the candid conversation turns personal, and the three moms share personal stories, smart strategies, and comforting words for moms who may be overwhelmed with the back-to-school rush. They remind each other, “Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.”

Amid the laughs and real talk, Jolina, Angeline, and Dimples reveal some of their back-to-school survival tricks.

Angeline, for example, swears by the power of a cute lunchbox (or fun shapes) to get her kids to eat.“Kahit simpleng sandwich lang, basta cute ang baunan, ganado na agad si Sylvio,” she shares.

She and Jolina also agree that fancy recipes aren’t necessary. Instead, a little bit of creativity and a whole lot of love go a long way. As Jolina puts it, “Hindi kailangang mahal ang baon, basta punong-puno ng effort at love, ramdam ‘yan ng mga anak natin.”

Then there’s the never-ending to-do list. I have groceries, bills, and errands to run. Sometimes, when schedules get too packed, there are things forgotten along the way. For when it gets overwhelming, the three moms all agree—shopping online and paying with GCash is the ultimate lifesaver. While doing the laundry or helping with their kids’ homework, they can check off items on their grocery list without even leaving the house!

Dimples, meanwhile, brings up the challenges she faces having to keep up with the constant stream of expenses once the school year starts.From school projects and extracurricular activities to unexpected gastos, the financial pressure doesn’t end after enrollment.

“Kala mo tapos ka na, pero may bagong shoes, uniforms, at pang-extracurricular pa pala,” she opens up. Her solution? We are breaking down the big-ticket items. With GCash’s GGives, she can split purchases like gadgets or sports gear into smaller payments, with zero down payment needed.

And of course, there are the surprise expenses—like when emergencies happen. For those moments, Jolina reminds viewers that they can lean on GCredit, which provides users with a credit line of up to PHP 50,000.

For even bigger needs like tuition fees, there’s also GLoan, which lets users borrow up to PHP 150,000 instantly, with affordable terms and quick disbursement straight to their GCash wallet. “At least you know that there is someone you can rely on.” Hindi ka kakabahan agad,” they agree. For those who encounter unforeseen expenses before payday, it provides peace of mind.

Watch Mommy, G Ka Na? online

Throughout the episodes, a recurring theme emerges: moms can learn a lot from other moms. “Okay lang humingi ng tulong,” Jolina reminds viewers. “May mga kapwa mommy, may mga tools—tulungan tayo.”

 Stream Mommy, G Ka Na? on the official YouTube channel of GCash. Join the conversation online with fellow moms finding gaan and ginhawa in every stage of school-year parenting by following @gcashofficial on Instagram and Facebook.

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2GO Partners with CITEM to Power Manila FAME 2025

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) has chosen 2GO, the Philippines’ largest provider of end-to-end logistics and transportation solutions, as a Business Solutions Partner for Manila FAME 2025, which will be held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City from October 16 to 18, 2025.

This cooperation will let 2GO help exhibitors and buyers with their logistics at the country’s biggest design and lifestyle exhibition. 2GO is ready to safely carry valuable and delicate goods across the Philippines and beyond. They offer services in sea, land, and air freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and maritime travel.

Participants will also be given personalized solutions to get their goods to the event and then send them back to markets across the country or to purchasers in the area and around the world. Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding, remarked, “2GO is honored to partner with CITEM to support Manila FAME 2025.” “We know how important this event is for showing off Filipino creativity to people in the Philippines and around the world.” We want to make it easier for exhibitors to take part, interact with buyers, and find new prospects by using our logistics knowledge. 2GO will help exhibitors and guests from all around the world get there by offering complete logistics and maritime transport services. This makes sure that both the participants and their goods get to Manila safely and without any problems.

CITEM is the Department of Trade and Industry’s export promotions arm. It continues to support small and medium-sized businesses and artisan communities in the Philippines. Leah Pulido Ocampo, Executive Director of CITEM, remarked, “Our goal with Manila FAME has always been to give Filipino craftsmanship a global stage.” “Our partnership with 2GO makes sure that participants have reliable logistics support throughout their journey, so they can focus on sharing their designs, products, and stories with the world.” Manila FAME came back in 2024 with 340 exhibitors and more than 5,700 guests who came to find the greatest home, fashion, and lifestyle products in the country.

This year, the event is set to be greater, with more than 10,000 buyers, exhibitors, media, and industry professionals expected to attend, including experts in hospitality, architecture, and interior design. Manila FAME 2025 will once again make the Philippines a place to get high-quality, design-driven home, fashion, holiday, and interior goods. It will also help local businesses work together with businesses across the world. To learn more about 2GO Forwarding, send an email to forwarding@2go.com.ph.

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Over 1,500 Lives Touched: LAB for ALL’s San Juan Mission

The FilOil Centre in San Juan City transformed into a hub of hope and healing as the LAB for ALL caravan brought its nationwide health mission to the heart of the metro. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos spearheaded the initiative, welcoming over 1,500 San Juaneos with open arms—and open clinics.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos visits the Bell-Kenz booth during the Lab for All event; with her is Bell-Kenz Corporate Branding and PR Head Patrick Larraga.

From free medical consultations and diagnostic screenings to vitamins and prescription medicines, the caravan offered more than just services—it delivered peace of mind. For many residents, it was a rare chance to access healthcare without the heavy price tag. X-rays, ECGs, dental treatments, and more were made available, proving that when government and private sectors unite, real change happens.

“Dapat nating mahalin ang Pilipinas, dapat natin mahalin ang Pilipino,” the First Lady reminded the crowd, echoing a message of unity and compassion. Her gratitude extended to the volunteers, agencies, and partners who made the day possible, reinforcing that this mission is a shared effort.

Joining her were San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Representative Bel Zamora-Jornada, both proud to host the caravan and reaffirm the city’s commitment to accessible healthcare. “San Juan po ang inyo pong nadalaw,” Mayor Zamora said, highlighting the honor of being chosen as a stop on the LAB for ALL journey.

One of the standout contributors was Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., whose post-consultation support and generous distribution of medicines amplified the caravan’s impact. CEO Luis Raymond Go summed it up best: “Access to reliable treatment should not be a privilege.”

To date, LAB for ALL has served over 1,200 registered patients nationwide, delivering 3,312 medical services and 77 dental treatments. But beyond the numbers lies a deeper mission: to make “mahal magkasakit” a thing of the past.

With support from agencies like DOH, DSWD, CHED, PhilHealth, and TESDA—plus a long list of others—the San Juan leg was a testament to what collaboration can achieve. And with more city missions on the horizon, LAB for ALL continues to bridge gaps, lift burdens, and bring healthcare closer to every Filipino family.

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Keep Your Children’s Dreams Alive with a Plan B

Help your child achieve their goals even when you’re no longer around

“I want to be like you, Mama.” These are the words every parent wishes to hear, hoping their children will carry with them always. Your children’s aspirations are boundless, whether they are to become doctors, build bridges, or follow in your artistic footsteps.

But life doesn’t always go as planned. When a parent is no longer there to provide the means, these dreams shouldn’t have to fade. With life insurance, a parent’s love continues to protect even in their absence, ensuring that a child can finish school in the home they grew up in and have whatever they need to pursue their career aspirations.

It’s easy to think of life insurance as just another expense. But it is much more than that. It’s the safety net—the Plan B—that keeps their dreams alive and their plans on track. Without it, a premature loss can undo everything you have worked so hard to build. With a Plan B, your children enjoy the opportunity to keep moving forward, even when life takes an unexpected turn.

“Watching our children grow up, aspiring to follow our footsteps—just fills us with immense joy and compels us to provide them with every opportunity to realize those dreams, no matter what the future may bring,” expressed Renato Vergel De Dios, President and CEO of BDO Life. “Life insurance has to be the simplest, most powerful solution to sustaining those aspirations, even amidst life’s toughest challenges.”

Life insurance benefits intervene in those unforeseen circumstances to maintain routines and uphold the foundations established over the years. It gives your kids the confidence and stability to pursue their goals. That kind of security is a legacy that no loss can ever take away.

Get started on your Plan B

“As parents, our goal is to support our children wherever their journey leads them,” Vergel de Dios remarked. “The benefits of life insurance will enable us to fulfill that promise, even when we are no longer around. Our way of ensuring that life will be okay, no matter what the future holds.”

Start your Plan B today by visiting the BDO branch nearest you. BDO Life Financial Advisors in BDO branches can help you find the right plan, customized to your needs and budget.

You can also explore BDO Life’s range of financial solutions and get a quote for free by visiting www.bdo.com.ph/bdo-life/get-a-quote.