Category: Fashion & Beauty

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Bridging Filipino Creativity to the Global Stage: SoFA Design Institute Partners with IE University

In today’s rapidly evolving creative landscape, design education is no longer confined within national borders. For aspiring designers, exposure to global perspectives, cross-cultural collaboration, and international opportunities has become an essential part of professional growth. Recognizing this shift, SoFA Design Institute has taken a significant step forward by launching a new academic partnership with IE University in Spain—an initiative that opens new global pathways for Filipino creatives.

For over a decade, SoFA Design Institute has built a reputation as one of the Philippines’ leading centers for creative education. The institution has consistently focused on nurturing talent while equipping students with the technical skills, critical thinking, and creative confidence needed to thrive in the design industry both locally and abroad.

This commitment to global engagement came to life on March 11 with the official launch of the SoFA–IE University partnership. The collaboration was unveiled during a curated event held at SoFA’s campus at The Proscenium Retail Row—an intimate gathering that brought together educators, creatives, and design enthusiasts for a morning centered on ideas, creativity beyond borders, and the evolving future of design education.

Creativity Without Borders

One of the highlights of the launch was a Creative Conversation featuring Flabelus, a Spanish footwear brand known for reinterpreting traditional craftsmanship through contemporary design and storytelling. Leading the discussion was Pilar Oraa, the brand’s International PR and Communications Director, who shared insights into how heritage craftsmanship can be transformed through modern creative expression.

The conversation provided attendees with a glimpse into how global design brands combine storytelling, culture, and innovation to create products that resonate across markets.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

The partnership also introduced new educational pathways for SoFA students. Andrea Pagani, Senior Associate Director of Business Development for Undergraduates in Southeast Asia and Oceania at IE University, presented the opportunities available through the collaboration.

Joining the discussion were SoFA co-founders Loralee Baron-Soong and Amina Aranaz-Alunan, along with Mads Constantino, Director for Academic Affairs at SoFA Design Institute, who hosted the morning session.

Through the partnership, SoFA students will gain access to a range of international learning experiences, including:

    • Global internship opportunities
    • Immersive Spanish design tours
    • Exchange programs
    • Summer school programs with IE University

These initiatives aim to expose students to diverse design environments while allowing them to participate in short-term international creative experiences that broaden both perspective and practice.

A Global Mindset for Filipino Designers

For many aspiring creatives in the Philippines, international exposure can be transformative. Today’s design industry increasingly values professionals who can navigate different cultural contexts while contributing original perspectives to global conversations.

By connecting with institutions such as IE University and collaborating with brands like Flabelus, SoFA Design Institute is actively creating pathways for Filipino designers to engage with international networks.

What began as a specialized design school in Manila is gradually evolving into a dynamic platform where local creativity meets global opportunity. Through partnerships like this, Filipino talent is being positioned to contribute meaningfully to the global design community.

As design education continues to expand beyond borders, initiatives like the SoFA–IE University collaboration demonstrate how institutions can empower students to explore new creative traditions, participate in international dialogue, and cultivate a truly global mindset.

For more information about the partnership and upcoming programs, visit the official website of SoFA Design Institute and follow their social media pages for updates.

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GlutaMAX Launches ‘Body PUTItivity’ to Redefine Skin Confidence

After 18 years in the Philippine market, GlutaMAX is stepping into a new chapter.

With the launch of its latest campaign, Body PUTItivity, the brand signals more than just a refresh — it marks a thoughtful repositioning shaped by how today’s consumers define beauty, empowerment, and self-expression.

At its heart, Body PUTItivity reframes skin brightening as an act of personal agency rather than a response to imposed beauty standards. In a landscape where conversations about skin tone and representation continue to evolve, GlutaMAX is choosing to meet the dialogue head-on — not defensively, but deliberately

A Strategic Evolution, Not Just a Relaunch

During the campaign unveiling in Manila, Aiza Diuco-Sun, Executive Director for Strategy and Marketing of HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc., described the moment as one of clarity.

“This event marks the official relaunch of GlutaMAX. It is about clarifying who we are today and what we stand for moving forward,” she shared. “For 18 years, GlutaMAX has been a trusted name in skin brightening in the Philippines. Today, we are strengthening our voice. We are refining our message.”

That refinement centres on a key idea: choosing brighter or more even-looking skin can be a valid form of self-care—and that choice need not be at odds with inclusivity.

Rather than positioning brightening as an obligation or comparative benchmark, Body PUTItivity affirms that skincare decisions are deeply personal. They reflect comfort, confidence, and autonomy—not compliance.

An Ambassador Who Embodies the Message

A defining moment of the relaunch was the introduction of Vanessa Tse Wing as the brand’s newest ambassador.

A decade-long GlutaMAX user, Tse Wing brings credibility beyond endorsement. With a background as a former national titleholder, scholar, and now public servant, she represents layered achievement and growth.

In her testimonial, she emphasized ownership over expectation.

“As a titleholder, as a student, and now as a public servant, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about meeting expectations. It’s about owning your decisions.”

Her words echo the campaign’s core philosophy: self-care, when intentional, becomes an expression of self-respect.

Notably, the brand steered away from traditional “before and after” narratives. Instead, it focused on evolving self-assurance—a subtle but meaningful shift in storytelling that aligns with current beauty discourse.

Reinforcing the System Behind the Message

Beyond messaging, the event spotlighted GlutaMAX’s product innovations, particularly its NanoWhite Technology formulation—designed for whitening and skin protection as part of a daily self-care routine.

Campaign visuals and an official jingle were also unveiled, reinforcing themes of inclusivity, individuality, and self-determination.

Attendees noted the campaign’s measured tone, especially given how sensitive discussions around skin tone can be. Rather than dismissing criticism or avoiding nuance, the brand leaned into dialogue—acknowledging that skincare preferences vary and that respect for those differences is essential.

A Timely Position in a Changing Market

Body PUTItivity enters the market at a time when empowerment is increasingly self-defined. Consumers are no longer responding to singular beauty narratives; they are shaping their own.

By emphasizing coexistence—that embracing one’s natural tone and choosing to brighten can both stem from confidence—GlutaMAX demonstrates strategic awareness of shifting expectations.

In an environment where conversations can easily polarize, the campaign’s insistence on personal choice over prescription feels both balanced and forward-looking.

If early reactions are any indication, Body PUTItivity may extend beyond a seasonal initiative. It presents a framework for how legacy beauty brands can remain culturally responsive without abandoning their core category strength.

At its core, the message is simple yet resonant: confidence is personal—and the freedom to choose is part of that confidence.

 

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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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Eye Mo Refreshes Its Design, Keeps Its Trusted Formula

 

There are brands that come and go—and then there are brands that become part of the Filipino household, woven into everyday life like the jingles we grew up with or the snacks we snuck into our school bags. Eye Mo is one of those brands.

For over 80 years, Eye Mo has been the quiet hero in our medicine cabinets. Whether it was the sting of smoke from a jeepney ride, the strain of late-night cramming, or the dry eyes from staring at a CRT monitor in the early 2000s—Eye Mo was there. One drop, and the world looked clearer.

Now, in 2025, Eye Mo is turning the page—not rewriting its story, but refreshing it. At a launch event in Manila, the brand unveiled its new packaging: sleek, modern, and inspired by nature. But the message was clear—this isn’t about change for change’s sake. It’s about honoring a legacy while stepping confidently into the future.

The New Look, Same Heart

Mr. Weitarsa Hendarto, Director of PT Combiphar, opened the event with a powerful reminder: “This isn’t just a new box. It’s about a promise that began 80 years ago and continues today.” The redesigned packaging—now unified across countries like Indonesia, Mexico, and Singapore—speaks one language: freshness, clarity, and trust.

The design features water droplets and bold hues, echoing the product’s core promise: instant refreshment. It’s a visual metaphor for the relief Eye Mo brings—a tribute to nature’s purity and the brand’s enduring formula.

From Local Staple to Global Icon

Eye Mo’s evolution isn’t just cosmetic. It’s strategic. As the brand expands globally, a unified look helps solidify its identity. Whether you’re in Manila or Mérida, the bottle speaks the same language—one of care, consistency, and credibility.

Transformation with Purpose

Joining the celebration was Miss Earth 2017, Karen Ibasco—a physicist, educator, and beauty queen whose journey reflects Eye Mo’s transformation. “To evolve is not to erase who you are,” she shared. “It’s to enhance it, so you shine brighter.”

Karen’s story—from classrooms to international stages—is a testament to growth rooted in authenticity. Like Eye Mo, she’s embraced change without losing sight of her core. Her message resonated deeply: transformation is most powerful when it’s purposeful.

A Tribute to Generations

Earl Jayona, Senior Marketing Manager of Eye Mo Philippines, wrapped the event with heartfelt gratitude. “This new look is our way of saying thank you—for more than eight decades of trust.” A montage of archival photos, user memories, and national milestones played across the screen, reminding everyone of Eye Mo’s deep roots in Filipino culture.

From its role in National Eye Care Awareness Month to its presence in everyday life, Eye Mo has always been more than a product—it’s a companion. And now, with refreshed packaging and renewed purpose, it’s ready to continue that journey.

Unwrapping the Future

As the event closed, leaders gathered on stage, united in vision. “Today, we don’t just unwrap packaging,” Jayona said. “We unwrap a new chapter of Eye Mo.”

The spotlight may have shifted to design, but the heart of the brand remains unchanged. Eye Mo’s commitment to eye health—and to the generations who trust it—is stronger than ever.

So next time you reach for that little bottle, know that you’re holding more than just eye drops. You’re holding a legacy—refreshed, reimagined, and ready for the future.

About Eye Mo

Eye Mo® is a trusted global brand and award-winning eye drop that has been in the Philippines for more than 50 years. Currently, Eye Mo is marketed in the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, Brunei Darussalam, and Mexico. In the Philippines, Eye Mo has 3 variants: Eye Mo Red Eyes, Eye Mo Moist, and Eye Mo Daily Care. For further information, please visit www.eyemoph.com, Facebook: EyeMoPH, IG: @eyemophofficial

 

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MONTESA MEDICAL GROUP Marks 25 Years of Dermatology and Age Management Excellence

 

MONTESA MEDICAL GROUP (MMG) celebrates its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to providing age-managing treatments and modern dermatology. Montesa has been leading the way in aesthetic innovation from its inception, providing complete solutions meant to improve skin health, renewal, and general well-being

Dr. Anna Marie Montesa, MMG President and Medical Director

“Reaching 25 years is not only a celebration of longevity but also evidence of our dedication to excellence in patient care,” stated President and CEO Dr. Anna Marie Montesa. “We are still dedicated to providing modern, scientifically supported treatments with natural-looking, worry-free, long-lasting effects.”

Leading with modern technologies and customized treatments meant to solve a variety of aesthetic and dermatological issues, Montesa keeps ahead. Cutera Titan for skin tightening and collagen stimulation; Cutera Laser Genesis for better texture and redness reduction; vein removal treatments for cleaner skin; Exilis Ultra for exact body contouring, Dr. Anna underlined the clinic’s offerings on It also boasts Cold Lift for deep hydration and rejuvenation and Ultherapy, the first FDA-approved non-invasive skin lifting procedure.

The Manila Hotel President, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., and Vice President for Administration Elaine Santos. Representing Montesa Medical Group: the President and Medical Director, Dr. Anna Marie Montesa

Montesa offers Exosome-ASCE therapy, Sculptra collagen biostimulator, Anti-Aging Cocktail and Glow White, and Anti-Aging Drips to restore young vitality as part of its anti-aging and regeneration program. The human stem cell program improves skin condition and lifetime even more. Targeted for melasma, hyperpigmentation, dark circles, intimate regions, and concentrated skin whitening, Montesa also provides the MMG Whitening Peel.

Montesa Medical Group Family

“For 25 years, Montesa has focused on thorough dermatology and age management to guarantee that our patients get the best possible treatment,” Dr. Montesa underlined. “We will keep developing new criteria in aesthetic medicine, combining creativity with tailored treatments to help our patients reach their best skin and general well-being.”

Montesa upholds its reputation as a reliable name in the field by celebrating this milestone and continuing to be committed to innovative new developments in aesthetic treatment.
Joining Montesa in celebrating wellness and beauty are Randy Santiago (Artist), Bea Binene (Artist), Jing Castaneda (TV Host), Froilan Canlas (Singer/Tawag ng Tanghalan Finalist), Scarlette Yape (Singer), Masculados (Singers), Khai Flores (Artist), Charo Laude (Artist/Mrs. Universe), Rani Dado (Ms. Albay), Shaina Rabacal (Ms. Camarines Sur) who reflect the brand’s dedication to excellence. Their faith in Montesa’s experience emphasizes its leadership in aesthetic medicine.