Category: Fashion & Beauty

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BingoPlus Delivers A Successful Partnership With Miss Universe Philippines 2024

BingoPlus, your comprehensive entertainment platform in the country and provider of your favorite online tongits, bingo, and perya games, delivered a fun-filled and truly entertaining year for the pageant scene in the country as the brand successfully presented Miss Universe Philippines (MUPH) 2024.

This year, BingoPlus stands as the MUPH lead presentor, which allows the brand to bring in significant events for the pageant throughout the whole competition, making it enjoyable not only for the queens and the organizations but for all supporters across Filipino communities.

Among these activities were the press conference held at LimaPark Hotel Batangas City, the MUPH house visit to BingoPlus at Bonifacio Global City and BingoPlus Studio in Quezon City, Sponsors Night and the Preliminary Night at the Manila Hotel, and the Grand Coronation Night at the Mall of Asia Arena.

For BingoPlus, the partnership with Empireph Holdings Inc. has been monumental in promoting its advocacies in nurturing culture and communities, expanding efforts in the protection of rich biodiversity, and creating safe spaces and opportunities for wellness. The brand also ensured that its programs empowered women by launching its #GandaPlus campaign, which aimed to provide a platform for queens and fans to express their definition of beauty and purpose, ensuring a diverse and limitless meaning of beauty.

BingoPlus in the Grand Coronation Night

BingoPlus and MUPH made this year’s competition more fun and exciting with the titles and special awards given to the queens, while recognizing their pillars above to advocate social and community growth.

Joining the panel of judges this year was DigiPlus Interactive Corporation Chairman Eusebio Tanco. Meanwhile, DigiPlus Interactive Corporation President Andy Tsui and AB Leisure Exponent Inc. President Rafael Jasper Vicencio awarded BingoPlus’ Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024 to Miss Nueva Ecija Maica Martinez with a cash prize of PHP 250,000.00.

The night also highlighted the works and programs of the BingoPlus Foundation, providing significant insight into the pivotal impact of the foundation on communities through its programs in education and technology, access to healthcare, community safety and resilience, and responsible digitalization.

Winning the night was Miss Bulacan Chelsea Anne Manalo who was crowned Miss Universe 2024, followed by 1st runner-up Miss Cainta Stacey Daniella Gabriel, 2nd runner-up Miss Quezon Province Maria Ahtisa Manalo, who was also crowned Miss Philippines Cosmo International 2024, 3rd runner-up and Miss Philippines Supranational 2025 Justine Tarah Marie Valencia from Baguio, and 4th runner-up Christi Lynn McGarry from Taguig.

Additionally, Alexie Mae Brooks of Iloilo City was appointed as Miss Philippines Eco International 2025, while Miss Pampanga Cyrille Payumo was named Miss Philippines Charm 2025.

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo

In an exclusive interview, Miss Universe 2024 Chelsea Manalo shared her excitement after winning the title.

“Right now, I feel really ecstatic; it’s still surreal to me that I have actually won Miss Universe Philippines 2024. But I know that there are so many great things that will come my way. And because of this, I’m ready to take the opportunity to work well with the organization and, of course, to better work with the purpose that is really close to my heart.”

Manalo also shared the importance of the Miss Universe Philippines platform in pursuit of her advocacy for youth empowerment and education.

“It’s really important to be Miss Universe Philippines 2024 because this will open so many opportunities for me to work with the purpose that is close to my heart, which is youth empowerment through the education of the indigenous people. And I know I can better help them reach a little bit closer to their dreams.”

She also shared her fond memory with BingoPlus, “This was when we went to shoot in Batangas. It was a little bit of a time to get away as a candidate, but you know, to be with my sisters and to shoot with the brand.”

Manalo also described her BingoPlus journey with 3-bingo letters.

“B, beautiful. You know that experience is really, really beautiful. I don’t think there’s anything else I would ever trade at this moment right now. I, I know I have come a long way through so many things that have happened in my life, and because of that, I can really see how independent I have become to be where I am right now. And O, because I know that this is the opportunity that I am waiting for in my life.”

Meanwhile, Miss Universe Philippines 1st runner-up Stacey Gabriel gave advice to the aspiring queens. “Know that you have everything that you need within you to conquer the universe. I believe in you, so I hope you believe in you too.”

Miss Universe 2nd runner-up Maria Ahtisa Manalo added that knowing your purpose is your core to surviving the competition.

“I think you know the purpose of why you are joining a beauty pageant. It is very important for you to know your purpose and the reason why you are doing it. It is very important to know your core so that you’d be able to stick by that and survive the pageant world.”

Manalo ended the interview after expressing her gratitude to BingoPlus and said, “Thank you so much BingoPlus for bringing this opportunity. I know that this will commend me and all of the other ladies here. It doesn’t stop here. Thank you so much!”

Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024

BingoPlus ensures a fun-filled and truly entertaining experience for MUPH. This year, BingoPlus awarded the title of Miss Universe BingoPlus 2024, a special title given to the queen with the most online votes, an express ticket to the final 20 and a cash prize of Php250,000.00. The title was given to Miss Universe Nueva Ecija Maica Martinez.

In an exclusive interview, Martinez expressed her gratitude after knowing she had won the award. “I am so grateful because, technically, I won the first title tonight, and I’m so proud to be Miss BingoPlus Universe 2024. And I’m so grateful to all who supported me all throughout this year.”

Martinez also recalled her experience with BingoPlus, “My memorable experience with BingoPlus was when we visited the BingoPlus office. I’m so happy because I received so much love and support from my BingoPlus family. We received flowers and messages from them that helped us boost our morale and really pump up our journey to the universe.”

In addition, Martinez described her MUPH journey as inspiring, empowering, and transformational. Her journey with MUPH made her realize that dreaming is limitless, and so we must continue to dream bigger.

She also expressed her gratitude for the support from her hometown and to BingoPlus.

“To my family and friends all around the world, thank you very much! This is not only my success; this is the success of the entire Nueva Ecija.

To BingoPlus, thank you so much for this wonderful title. I can’t wait to contribute to the BingoPlus family and, at the same time, to work hand-in-hand, especially with the BingoPlus foundation. Laging panalo at masaya sa BingoPlus! ”

BingoPlus #PurpleLuckPurpleLove and #GandaPlus

The MUPH excitement extended not only to the candidates but also to everyone. BingoPlus launched the #PurpleLuckPurleLove summer campaign, wherein the brand gave away prizes like MUPH VIP tickets, an iPhone 15 Plus, and cash prizes. This is to ensure that, aside from quality and top-tier entertainment, the brand provides everyone with a chance to win prizes that add fun and enjoyment anytime and anywhere.

Along with this, BingoPlus launched the #GandaPlus online campaign, which aimed to provide a platform for queens and fans to express their definition of beauty and purpose, ensuring a diverse and limitless meaning of beauty. Fans were encouraged to share their #GandaPlus stories through video stitching and uploads posted to their social media accounts on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Netizens were also encouraged to mark their #GandaPlus traits on our customized #GandaPlus bingo card. Ten (10) winners of Php 20,000.00 were given away, plus an exclusive dinner with Miss Universe winners.

The success of Miss Universe Philippines 2024 is part of BingoPlus’ commitment to the entertainment and leisure industry of the Philippines, embracing all forms of enjoyment that have become important fixtures in Philippine culture. The brand’s partnership with MUPH is an opportunity for it to operate on a level that encompasses a wider range of what “leisure and enjoyment” mean to Filipinos, ensuring the experience is both accessible and memorable.

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. BingoPlus is a leading platform for various forms of entertainment for Filipinos where players can explore tongits, bingo, perya games and many other game choices to have fun at home. For more information, visit: www.bingoplus.com or download the app now from App store and Google Play.

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Expert from Herbalife Discusses How the Strength of Community Can Support Individuals in Achieving Their Health and Wellness Objectives

The year began with an informative presentation by Dr. Luigi Gratton, Herbalife’s VP of Training, at Herbalife Philippines. The presentation centred on Herbalife’s Global Nutrition Philosophy, which advocates for a comprehensive approach to health using a well-rounded diet, consistent physical activity, and social support to sustain these practices.

To help people achieve their health and wellness objectives for the new year, Dr. Gratton discussed the most recent research in the field of nutrition science and how to harness the power of the community.

“The main thing we have seen in the latest literature is that restricting calories leads to losing weight along with a tremendous amount of muscle,” Dr. Gratton added, touching on the importance of protein-rich, low-calorie diets as integral instruments for ensuring general health. But you can stop muscle loss in its tracks by eating more protein. You may keep your health and vitality as you age by keeping that muscle mass.

The findings of Herbalife’s Asia Pacific Power of Community Survey 2023, which Dr. Gratton also brought out, demonstrated the importance of community support in assisting individuals in reaching their long-term health objectives.

According to the poll, 83% of consumers in the APAC region are trying to improve their health and wellness. Among this group, 51% consider support groups to be extremely helpful since they offer inspiration and connections to a wider range of health-related information and services.

“We have long believed in the power of community to help people achieve their wellness goals,” said Allan Domingo, General Manager of Herbalife Philippines. In partnership with our distributors, who not only distribute our nutrition products but also offer their clients unwavering support, motivation, encouragement, and accountability, we are committed to empowering more individuals to lead active, healthy lives that are nourished by quality nutrition.

To help its customers reach their holistic wellness objectives, Herbalife provides them with the knowledge, food, and support they need. Visit https://www.herbalife.com/en-ph for more details.

Regarding Herbalife Ltd.

An industry leader in health and wellbeing, Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) has been transforming people’s lives through the provision of exceptional nutritional goods and a chance for its autonomous distributors since the year 1980. Using items supported by research, the company caters to consumers in over 90 regions via enterprising distributors that offer personalized services by providing one-on-one coaching and a welcoming community that encourages its members to make positive lifestyle changes and live a healthier, more active way of life.

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Celebrate the Holidays with Intention Together with SM Green Finds

Christmas is just around the corner and that means the festive spirit is truly in full swing! Malls sparkle with glittering decor, nostalgic Filipino carols fill the air, and our gift-giving lists grow. Make this a meaningful Christmas with sustainable gift-giving with SM Green Finds.

Celebrate Sustainably This Season

Go green this festive season with SM Store’s Green Finds! Discover eco-friendly choices from home essentials to unique local crafts, and sustainable supplies for your gift-giving. Check out SM Store’s Green Finds collection for a brighter, greener holiday.

Nestle into the holiday comfort with eco-friendly home selections. SM Home offers decorative and sustainable home organizers such as buri hampers. For a festive yet eco-friendly home fragrance, SM Home offers a collection of home fragrance products such as room sprays, scented candles and diffusers made by a social enterprise called Bright Ideas.

“We continue to work with our partners to provide our shoppers with products that make sustainable living easy. We also make sure that despite it being sustainable it still gives value for money for our customers,” said Janice Yang, SM Home Business Head. 

Paskong Kultura

Paskong Kultura is about celebrating the holidays with purpose and embracing the joy of giving back. Kultura actively contributes to SM Green Finds with several collaborations with local artisans and small businesses who share this commitment to eco-conscious products. These products are on display in Kultura inside SM Stores and at over 45 Kultura stores nationwide.

“Sustainability is and has always been integral to Kultura. We prioritize the use of natural or recycled materials, support traditional craftsmanship and aim to minimize waste in our operations. We do this by continuously seeking out partnerships with local communities to create a positive social and economic impact, ultimately contributing to long-term sustainability,” said Sheila Tan, Operations Head of Kultura,

Kultura, which can also be found inside SM Stores, offers a wide array and well-curated selection of sustainable and handcrafted gift items by local artisans like the Bankuan Sawali Sling Bags with Crocheted Lemons, Abaca Slippers with Canvas Straps, Bamboo Tumblers, and Bamboo Dining Utensils Flasks.

Clean Beauty

Christmas time is also a good time to advocate Clean Beauty. SM Beauty carries a Clean Beauty line, a host of products that are mindfully created, made from natural ingredients and free from harsh chemicals. Not only are these products made without all the bad stuff you need to avoid; but they are also just as effective as the ones you are used to.

SM Beauty works together with suppliers that are taking steps towards green practices to make more green options for customers. Specialty brands that offer a wide variety of natural, eco-friendly, and locally sourced products take the spotlight. Intending to meet the needs of customers, SM Store makes sure that these brands follow clean beauty practices and use green technology and eco-friendly ingredients.

Clean beauty products to look for are those which use plant-based ingredients which are free from harsh chemicals and brands which have introduced refill pouches for their products. “Clean beauty is something that more and more shoppers should try. At SM Beauty, we try to give our beauty customers the best and widest array of clean beauty choices to support a more eco-conscious lifestyle. Whether it be for their every self-care routine or for gifting this holiday season, I am sure they will find something here,” said Sharon P. Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability, Watsons Philippines.

Eco-Friendly Wraps

Wrap your presents with care for your loved ones and the planet.

Customers can purchase green gift wrapping and packaging such as packs of Kraft bags, corrugated boxes, e-flute resealable bags, eco jute bags and non-woven reusable sando bags at Supplies Station Inc (SSI) found inside SM Stores.

“We make sure that SM store offers a wide variety of gift-wrapping materials for the creative and eco-conscious customers”, said Jessalyn Uy, Business Unit Head for Supplies Station Inc. 

As your ultimate holiday gift-shopping destination, SM Store has carefully curated a selection of sustainable gifts, locally-crafted homeware, and so much more, all in one place.

Be sure to swing by SM stores, and Go for Green Finds this holiday season.

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What’s your Green DNA? Making the simplest decision can lead to a greener lifestyle

Whether it be for the home, self-care, or everything else in between, making that simple and conscious decision to adopt a greener lifestyle is making that first big step in the fight against climate change.

In fact, that decision might even turn out to be a budget-friendly one too. Why? That’s because SM Store has an extensive collection of green items that will make it so much easier to adopt a green lifestyle.

At SM Home, you can find green home essentials which are reasonably priced, and sustainably sourced using eco-friendly materials.

Included in SM Home’s green portfolio are linen products made of Bamboo such as pillowcases, bedsheets, and duvets. You will also find home products made of natural fiber such as buri hampers and baskets which serve as home organizers and ornaments. 

Looking for furniture? SM Home has a collection of carefully curated furniture handcrafted and designed by local enterprises, which supports the livelihood of Filipino artisans.

A green household always involves adopting sustainable practices in your daily life. Both functional and aesthetic- a green household takes into consideration ways to reduce environmental impact while creating a healthier living space.

“We are proud of SM Home’s Green Finds portfolio such as the Bamboo linens, which are popular with our customers”, said Janice Yang, SM Home Business Unit Head.

Let’s look at the other things you need at home. You don’t need to look too far for green items that can be used at home. You can illuminate the house and save with ACE LED bulbs. These create a cozy ambience while significantly reducing energy consumption, benefitting your family and the planet.

To take care of cleaning the house, parents can buy organic cleaners that tackle dirt with eco-friendly ingredients, ensuring a healthier home for their family while embracing sustainable practices.

For plantitos and plantitas, get into green gardening with biodegradable pots that are made from wood powder and rice or corn husks with resin. Consider also using natural growing media which supports plant growth while utilizing local farm by-products, imparting the beauty of sustainable practices to your children.

“Sustainability starts with conscious choices. With ACE Express at SM Store, intentional shopping becomes a seamless experience. Our Green Finds empower you to shop with a purpose, creating a lasting impact on our planet’s well-being,” said ACE Hardware Business Unit Head Bernardo Ong.

Clean beauty is something that more and more shoppers should try. At SM Beauty, customers can choose from the best and widest array of clean beauty products to support a more eco-conscious lifestyle.

“Whether it be for their every self-care routine or for gifting this holiday season, I am sure they will find something here,” said Sharon Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability, Watsons Philippines

When it comes to self-care, the SM Beauty department at the SM Store has a line of clean beauty products that are packaged using 100 percent recycled plastic.

“Our clean flake labels reflect the imperfect shapes, natural colors and sizes of our wonderful ingredients. What’s more, our packaging is made of 100 percent recycled plastic,’” said Emily Koa, Marketing Head of Body Shop.

You can kickstart your Holiday shopping while valuing sustainability and those who craft with care. Choose eco-conscious handcrafted items that highlight the beauty of locally sourced raw materials.

You will find some green gift suggestions from Kultura at the SM Store such as reusable stainless-steel tumblers and bamboo-made flasks containing utensils.  You can do your part in helping save the environment by being more intentional in your purchases this season.

“With the environmental challenges facing our world, more and more consumers are favoring brands that make an effort to value sustainability. By integrating green products into our merchandise mix – we are ready to serve the discerning and eco-conscious Filipino shopper”, said Sheila Tan, Kultura Operations Head.

The SM Green Finds program continues to scale, highlighting over 16,000 sustainable products from its participating retail affiliates as it helps educate consumers about the benefits and impact of pivoting to a greener lifestyle.   At the end of the day, aside from pivoting to green, Filipinos are also looking for a marketplace that gives them value for money.

Through SM Store, green living is really made easy and accessible for the Filipino consumer.

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UNIQLO Launches Final “Doraemon Sustainability Mode” Products for JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING Campaign

Plush toy and fleece items are available from October 6, supporting UNESCO initiatives for clean oceans

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO announces the launch of the 2023 Fall/Winter collection for JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING, a campaign supporting UNESCO activities to reduce marine debris. The new items, the final in the series featuring the popular cartoon character Doraemon, will be available at UNIQLO stores throughout Japan and the uniqlo.com online store from Friday, October 6.

JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING is a customer-participation project that connects the “power of clothing” with actions for a more sustainable world. Items for the 2023 Fall/Winter collection are the Doraemon Sustainability Mode Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket, and the Doraemon Sustainability Mode Toy, both made of 100% recycled polyester fabric. The Full-Zip Jacket features a small Doraemon Sustainability Mode motif on the chest, and the Toy is UNIQLO’s first plush toy made from fluffy yarn fleece material. This will be the final Doraemon Sustainability Mode collection.

For every purchase of products eligible for the campaign, which include Doraemon Sustainability Mode items and other fleece items made from recycled polyester, Fast Retailing will donate US$1 to UNESCO to support its international initiative to reduce ocean garbage, which includes educational programs to raise awareness of marine debris issues. *

* The maximum donation amount is US$1.5 million (approx. ¥200 million). Donations will be made by UNIQLO parent company Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.

Doraemon Sustainability Mode Products

Launch Date:  October 6, 2023 (Friday) 

Doraemon Sustainability Mode Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket 1 Design Php 1,490
Doraemon Sustainability Mode KIDS Fluffy Yarn Fleece Full-Zip Jacket 1 Design Php 990
Doraemon Sustainability Mode Toy 1 Design Php 990

Website:   https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/en/contents/sustainability/jointpoc/
See the special website for other JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING products eligible for donations

Special website to learn about ocean garbage.

The JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING special website contains content to learn about ocean garbage. Continuing from the previous season, the site features interviews with experts, videos about marine debris issues, and advice for reducing plastic waste in our everyday lives. The site also includes reports on how donations made through the JOIN: THE POWER OF CLOTHING project since 2022 (approximately US$ 3 million) have so far been utilized.

About Doraemon Sustainability Mode

Beloved for more than 50 years, the cat-type robot Doraemon is a worldwide popular manga and anime character from the 22nd century. Always kind and ready to help, Doraemon pulls all sorts of secret gadgets out of his fourth-dimensional pocket to solve problems throughout his many adventures. In Sustainability Mode, Doraemon joined UNIQLO as a global sustainability ambassador, to show us how sustainable steps can be our secret gadgets to help transform the world into a better place for all.

UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)

UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It contributes to peace and security by promoting international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, communication, and information. UNESCO promotes knowledge sharing and the free flow of ideas to accelerate mutual understanding and a more perfect knowledge of each other’s lives. UNESCO’s programs contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in the 2030 Agenda, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015.

https://www.unesco.org/en

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UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store Celebrates 5th Anniversary in the Philippines

Exciting experiences and fun-filled activities await in-store from October 13 to 26, 2023

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO marks the 5th anniversary of its Global Flagship store in the Philippines with exciting experiences and fun-filled activities for everyone to enjoy.

Since its opening in 2018, the UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store has brought customers exciting things over the years. Being the biggest Global Flagship store in Southeast Asia, it is the home to the complete line-up of LifeWear items in the country, as well as unique experiences such as the custom printing service, UTme!, and special displays and collaborations with various local talents.

As part of the brand’s appreciation for being part of Filipinos’ daily lives, UNIQLO is bringing customers an even better shopping experience as they ring in their 5th year from October 13 to 26, 2023. 

Elevated Store. Elevated Essentials. Embrace the Future.

UNIQLO Manila’s 5th anniversary promises to be one for the books with the theme “Elevated Store. Elevated Essentials. Embrace the Future.”

Bringing the concept to life is UNIQLO’s partnership with five young and distinguished individuals who have achieved global recognition in their respective fields. Each partner represents one of the brand’s biggest item lines which all hold innovative functionality at its core. These LifeWear items champion the Filipino people, elevating everyone’s essentials, wardrobe, and lifestyle. 

  • Food and lifestyle content creator Erwan Heussaff, recognized by the prestigious James Beard Media Awards last June, joins the group for AIRism
  • Groundbreaking director Martika Escobar, the first Philippine director to win an award at the Sundance Film Festival, represents HEATTECH
  • Part of the group as well as modelling for the AirSense line-up is entrepreneur Gio Visitacion, owner of the Good Cup Coffee Company and 2020 Philippine Brewers Cup champion.
  • Southeast Asian Games Medalist and Guinness World Record holder Kaizen Dela Serna for UV Protection products
  • Award-winning singer and actress, popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo for Bra Tops

Discover new experiences.

Opening on the second floor of the Global Flagship Store, customers are treated to new and revamped experiences. 

UNIQLO is introducing UNIQLO Coffee to the country, bringing Filipinos the brand’s cafe-style offerings that first opened in 2021 at the renewed UNIQLO Global Flagship Store in Ginza. Highlighting the brand’s commitment to being one with the community, the coffee drinks will be made with locally sourced, high quality coffee beans from Mt. Apo, and will feature goods and pastries that mix Filipino and Japanese flavors. 

As part of the brand’s commitment to sustainability, UNIQLO is also set to bring to Manila its Re.UNIQLO Studio. Visitors to the Global Flagship Store will get to enjoy repair services on their pre-loved UNIQLO items, bringing new life to their favorite LifeWear pieces. This stays true to the LifeWear philosophy of quality, enabling customers to enjoy their UNIQLO items for a longer period.

Lastly, UNIQLO refreshes their UTme! line-up, collaborating with local artists from all over the country to bring customers unique designs they can customize on t-shirts and tote bags. The artists include Gianne Encarnacion and Ross Du of Metro Manila, Johanna Velasco and Myka Arnado of Cebu, and Kajo Baldisimo of Davao. Muralist Glendford Lumbao also joins in to contribute a piece to be displayed at the new experience areas on the second floor of the Flagship Store.

Enjoy special UNIQLO items and limited-time offers

The celebration doesn’t stop here! From October 13 to 31, customers can expect exciting freebies and promos exclusive to the UNIQLO Manila Flagship store. 

Moreover, customers should also stay tuned for fun and educational workshops led by select UTme! artists and endorsers throughout the month of October. 

Make the most of the fun activities and special offers by visiting the UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship store in Glorietta 5 in Makati City from October 13 to 26, 2023.

Stay updated on the latest news and promos by following UNIQLO Philippines on Facebook, @uniqlophofficial on Instagram and Tiktok, and on www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/.