Category: Fashion & Beauty

Posted on

Beauty + Health & Wellness Manila Celebrates 10 Years of Defining Self-Care

Beauty + Health & Wellness Manila (BHW) proudly opened its landmark 10th edition today at the SMX Convention Center Manila, marking a decade of shaping the country’s self-care industry. Running until September 19, the Philippines’ premier trade show unites more than 85 local and international brands across the beauty and wellness spectrum.

Organized by Global-Link MP Events International, Inc. in partnership with the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP), and co-located with the Hotel & Foodservice Suppliers Show, BHW Manila continues to champion social impact through its support of the Ayala Foundation, Inc.

A Decade of Self-Care Evolution

Over the past ten years, BHW Manila has chronicled and propelled the transformation of self-care in the Philippines—from niche wellness products to a fully established industry now competing on the Asian stage.

    • High-Efficacy Formulations: Filipino innovators have elevated organic ingredients and essential oils into science-backed, everyday essentials.
    • Filipino Brands Rising: Homegrown names now stand shoulder-to-shoulder with global competitors, offering superior quality, modern packaging, and proven results.
    • Complete Industry Ecosystem: By linking local creators with international suppliers and technical experts, the Philippine market is primed for rapid expansion in its next decade.

Exhibitor Highlights

This year’s showcase reflects the full ecosystem driving self-care forward:

    • Filipino Brands & Enterprises: Hiwaga ng Dagat Corp., Hairreve (Jradiance Corp.), Juju Health and Wellness, Niveus Skin, Palawan Pearls, Scents & Memories Enterprises, The Zen Institute, Christian Cosmetic Science Inc., and MX3 (DMI Medical Supply Co., Inc.).
    • Industry Pillars & Regulators: CCIP, DOST-ITDI, Philippine Association of Wellness and Aesthetics (PAWA), Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA), and the Packaging Institute of the Philippines.
    • Global Supply Chain Partners: Taiwan Pavilion (KS Digital Inc.), China Pavilion (Shanghai Wanlicheng Exhibition Co., Ltd.), Hubei Fortune Pharmaceutical, and Guangzhou Baosijie Biotechnology.

Media Inquiries: info@beautyandwellnessmanila.com

 

Posted on

BÚTLAK at 40: How the Negros Trade Fair Blooms with Heritage, Flavor, and Enterprise

Leaders and partners behind BÚTLAK: The 40th Negros Trade Fair come together during the media launch. From left: Royce Cabuñag, AVP and Head of SM Communities; Chef JJ Yulo; Mary Anne Colmenares, NTF Chairperson; Chef Tony Boy Escalante, owner of Antonio’s; Francis Esteban, owner of Breakfast at Antonio’s; Christina Gaston, ANP President; Antonio Sebastian Escalante of Antonio’s; Pats Lim Dy, SAVP for SM Communities; and Joaquin San Agustin, EVP for Marketing of SM Supermalls.

Step into SM Aura this September, and you’ll find yourself transported—not just to a mall, but to Negros Island itself. For 40 years, the Negros Trade Fair has been more than a marketplace; it’s been a living showcase of Filipino creativity, resilience, and pride. This year’s milestone edition, aptly called BÚTLAK (to bloom), brings together 178 brands under one roof at the SMX Convention Center Aura from September 22 to 27, 2026.

Unveiled during the media launch, the official BÚTLAK video sweeps across Negros—its landscapes, landmarks, fashion, and artistry—bringing the island’s creative spirit to life.

A Journey Without a Plane Ticket

The launch preview captured the essence of Negros through a stirring video that whisked guests across its landscapes, kitchens, and workshops. It was the kind of reel that makes you want to book a flight—but the fair itself brings Negros to Manila, offering six days of food, fashion, art, and handcrafted treasures.

ANP President Christina Gaston reminded everyone why this fair matters: “MSME development is about giving people the opportunity to discover what they can create, what they can become, and where their creativity can take them.” Over four decades, small ventures have grown into enterprises, and local products have reached markets once thought impossible.

Flavors That Tell Stories

Guests at the launch were treated to a culinary journey led by Negrense icons JJ Yulo, Joel Torre, and Chef JP Anglo. From heirloom recipes to bold new interpretations, the tasting was a delicious preview of what’s to come.

Joel Torre, actor-restaurateur and proud Negrense, summed it up simply: “I’m very proud of Negros products.” Chef JP Anglo added, “Life is always changing; it’s a constant evolution. That’s why the Negros Trade Fair is thriving—it’s about the chase for perfection and love for craftsmanship.”

From savory empanadas and sisig to ube halaya and distinctive local ice cream flavors, the BÚTLAK media launch served a flavorful celebration of Negros—featuring Wawa Bing’s, JT’s Manukan, Cocina Javellana, and Marcelo’s Microcreamery.

Expect beloved names like Bob’s Café, 21 Restaurant, Chicken House, El Ideal, and Virgie’s Homemade Products, alongside fresh food concepts and pasalubong finds that go far beyond inasal.

Fashion, Crafts, and Culture

Beyond the table, the fair is a treasure trove of wearable art and homegrown design. Labels like Arête and Ellege Handcrafted Fashion showcase accessories and clothing rooted in tradition yet styled for today. Meanwhile, Hacienda Crafts, Tumandok Crafts Industries, and Artisana Island Crafts transform abaca, bamboo, capiz, and other indigenous materials into décor and furniture that sustain artisan livelihoods.

The fair will feature 178 brands across food, fashion, furniture, homeware, art, and local crafts—bringing come for the names they already love and leaving with a new favorite—or several.

For Stephanie and Cristina Claparols of Lakat Sustainables, the fair feels like family: “There are a lot of new brands to discover, especially from the new generation. That’s the most exciting part.”

Roots and Blooms

The anniversary theme, explained by ANP Vice President Mary Anne Colmenares, captures the fair’s spirit: “Our roots are found in traditions, skills, and stories handed down to us. Our blooms are the new ideas, new enterprises, and new generations emerging from those roots.”

SM Supermalls EVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin echoed the sentiment: “We’re celebrating 40 remarkable years—but we’re equally excited about the next 40.”

Final Take

The 40th Negros Trade Fair isn’t just about shopping. It’s about heritage, talent, and heart. It’s about supporting local makers while discovering flavors, fashions, and crafts that carry the soul of Negros. Bring your family, bring your friends, and take home a piece of the island.

See you at BÚTLAK!

 

Posted on

The Pain Map: Navigating Upper vs. Lower Belly Trouble

Masakit ang tiyan? Sure ka bang tama ang gamot mo diyan?

Filipinos tend to treat “masakit ang tiyan” as one simple problem with one go-to solution. But is it really that simple? A stomachache can mean many things: kabag, pangangasim ng sikmura, constipation, or even cramps. Same stomach, different causes, so when it comes to getting over that belly pain, it’s never a one-size-fits-all answer.

Instead of guessing, it helps to understand what your body is actually telling you. Think of your belly as a map. Each zone corresponds to different organs, so where it hurts can reveal just as much as how it feels. Read both right, and you’re not just guessing—you’ll actually get to the bottom of it.

The Upper Belly Pain: Is it Indigestion—or Something Worse?

Upper belly acting up? That familiar flaring up or happy, uncomfortable bloating or a sharp, gnawing pain? That’s not just a random stomachache; that’s usually hyperacidity or pangangasim ng sikmura. These are often felt above the navel, up to the chest area, and tend to show up after meals—especially after that extra spicy or oily meal or that “promise, last na ‘to'” moment.

This kind of discomfort is your digestive system reacting in real time. The usual suspects are indigestion, acid reflux, and kabag. Same upper belly zone, but different triggers.

Manageable at first, but if the pain sticks around, worsens, or comes with red flags like vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss, that’s your cue to stop guessing and get it checked.

The Lower Belly Trouble: Just a Passing Cramp—or Something More Serious?

If the pain hits around or below the navel, it may be linked to functional abdominal cramping pain (FACP). Think hilab, ipit, tusok—the kind of pain na namimilipit sa sakit, and it often comes and goes.

FACP can appear on its own or with symptoms like pagtatae (diarrhea), constipation, or bloating. One minute you’re fine, the next you feel butterflies in your stomach—and not the kilig kind. It’s not always triggered by food either. Stress, pressure, and kaba can also directly affect your gut.

At its core, this type of pain is tied to how your digestive system functions—factors like gut sensitivity, intestinal muscle movement, or even an imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria can all play a role.

But if the pain becomes severe, one-sided, or comes with fever, nausea, or difficulty urinating, don’t brush it off. That’s your sign to get it checked.

 

What Can You Do For Upper and Lower Belly Pains

This is where it gets practical. If it’s upper belly pain caused by acid, antacids can help calm the burn. If it’s lower-belly cramps, that’s where antispasmodics like Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) come in to ease the tension.

 

Hyoscine N-butylbromide (Buscopan) is a naturally derived antispasmodic suitable for adults and children over 6 years old. It treats pain at the source, works in as fast as 15 minutes, and provides all-day relief—while helping reduce the intensity and frequency of lower-belly pain episodes.

 

For milder cases, Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is recommended for light to moderate abdominal cramps, while Hyoscine N-Butylbromide Paracetamol (Buscopan Plus) is designed for more severe cramping. The usual dose is 1–2 tablets, 3x a day for not more than 3 days, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Your body’s not being dramatic—it’s being specific. Masakit ang tiyan isn’t just one thing, and where the pain hits is a clue, not a coincidence. Go back to the map: upper or lower, hapdi or hilab—each one points to a different cause and a different solution.

Read it right, and you can stop guessing and choose the right care—whether it’s for pangangasim ng sikmura, kabag, constipation, or cramping pain like FACP (where antispasmodics like Buscopan can help).

Because at the end of the day, hindi lahat ng sakit ng tiyan pare-pareho—and your treatment shouldn’t be either. And when in doubt, it’s always best to consult your doctor.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

Posted on

Treat Yourself Promo 2026: Deals, Rewards, and Freebies at SM Supermarket & Savemore

Grocery shopping just got a whole lot more exciting. SM Supermarket and Savemore are bringing back their popular “Treat Yourself” promo, giving shoppers more ways to enjoy exclusive deals, earn rewards, and take home exciting freebies.

Running from April 15 to June 15, 2026, this much-anticipated campaign is packed with value—whether you’re shopping in-store or online at smmarkets.ph. Backed by trusted brands like Del Monte, Unilever, Lucky Me, Nissin, Head & Shoulders, and Creamsilk, every purchase comes with added perks.

Earn More Rewards When You Shop

Make every grocery run count with extra SMAC points when you purchase participating items at SM Supermarket and select Savemore stores.

Shoppers can also enjoy:

    • Free SM Bonus items with qualifying purchases using SMAC
    • 4+1 bundles and exclusive in-store deals

It’s a simple upgrade to your usual grocery routine—more value, more rewards.

Shop Online and Get Exclusive Freebies

If you prefer shopping from home, Treat Yourself has you covered. With a minimum spend of ₱1,500 on participating items, you can score limited-time freebies using special promo codes.

Freebie Schedule:

    • April 18–19, 24–25 & May 2–3
      Code: TY FOOD – Free Lay’s Stax Sour Cream & Onion (42g)
    • May 9–10, 17–18 & 23–24
      Code: TYBEAUTY – Free Creamsilk Hairfall Defense Conditioner (320ml)
    • May 30–31, June 6–7 & 13–14
      Code: TYHEALTH – Free Pediasure Plus Choco Liquid (110ml x 4 RTD)

Perfect for stocking up on essentials while enjoying a little extra.

Experience the Treat Yourself Expo

The Treat Yourself Expo adds even more excitement to your shopping experience, featuring games, exclusive promos, and surprise rewards.

Highlights:

    • Indulge Wheel – Spin for prizes with a minimum ₱500 purchase using SMAC
    • Surprise Treat – 50 lucky shoppers can get ₱200 OFF vouchers (with a minimum ₱3,000 spend), redeemable until June 15

Upcoming Locations:

    • May 1–3 – Savemore Festival Mall
    • May 15–17 – SM Supermarket Southmall
    • May 29–June 1 – SM Supermarket Fairview

 

Collect Limited-Edition Sticker Surprises

Starting May 1, 2026, SMAC members can collect fun, limited-edition “Sticker Surprise” collectibles featuring Ron Turon and partner brands.

Get them with a minimum ₱1,500 grocery purchase at SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and select Savemore stores.

These playful stickers are perfect for personalizing notebooks, tumblers, journals, and gadgets—adding a little fun to your everyday essentials.

Make Every Grocery Trip More Enjoyable

With the return of Treat Yourself, every trip to SM Markets becomes more rewarding. From exclusive deals and bonus rewards to exciting freebies and collectibles, there’s always something extra to look forward to.

So whether you’re shopping for essentials or indulging in your favorites, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

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.