Feature Archives - Page 31 of 35

19 November 202329 November 2023

An Enchanted Christmas Story – Eldar the Wizard brings yuletide cheer and magic for the holiday season

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, brightens the holidays with An Enchanted Christmas Story starting with the Christmas Tree Lighting and launch of EK’s Giant Parol on November 26, Sunday.

EK tapped a renowned lantern maker from Pampanga, Eric Bondoc Quiwa, in the creation of the 22-foot Parol to be installed at the Agila Grounds. This will be the centrepiece of the theme park’s holiday events along with 100 parols around the park. Quiwa will share this bright and colourful tradition in creating the biggest parol thus far in the country.

Additionally, EK and Firefly Lighting CeleBrights moments with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony for all to enjoy at the Spaceport.

According to EK President and Chairman Mario Mamon, EK is committed to showcasing the Filipino Christmas tradition of parols and local decorations to bring nostalgia during the holiday season. “It is no doubt that Christmas is the most festive and magical time of the year in the Philippines. As a proud Filipino company, EK is the ideal place where Filipino families can create more magical experiences and reminisce about their most enchanted Christmas stories,” Mr. Mamon further explained.

EK is also set to showcase their homegrown talents through their Christmas shows such as the plays Christmas At The Kingdom (EK Story) and Brooklyn Diaries: Oh Paskong Maligaya (OPM). The Eldar’s Christmas Parade will feature Eldar the Wizard and the Royal Family with the storybook characters as they dance and prance around the Enchanted Kingdom to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. EK’s very own vocal groups Victoria’s Way and The Kingsmen together with P-pop girl group SMS will serenade guests with Christmas Songs at EK’s bandstand.

For more information about this celebration and other upcoming events, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and Tiktok, and @ek_philippines for Twitter and Instagram.

19 November 202329 November 2023

Celebrating Excellence: Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023 Set to Dazzle on December 8th at Winford Resort & Casino Manila

The Glittering Gala Recognizing Outstanding Achievements Across outs Asia

The stage is set, the excitement is building, and the countdown has begun for the most anticipated recognition event of the year – the Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023. Organised by the esteemed La Visual Corporation and Sirbisu Channel, this gala celebration is scheduled to take place on December 8th at the magnificent Winford Resort & Casino Manila, promising an evening of glamour, inspiration, and unforgettable moments.

The Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award is not just an event; it’s a tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have left an indelible mark on Southeast Asia. This grand celebration will honor those who have displayed unwavering commitment, innovation, and excellence across various sectors, contributing significantly to the region’s growth and development.

The Southeast Asian Premier Business & Achiever Award also recognizes outstanding individuals, CEOs, entrepreneurs, public servants, artists, and celebrities who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. This year’s awardees include Salvacion Paparon, who will receive as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Female Entrepreneur. Shirley B. Belangel, CPA, MBA is recognized as the Premier Achiever Outstanding and Trusted Financial Advisor. Gabriel John Rimando as the Premier Achiever Empowered Entrepreneur. Judge Tarcelo A. Sabarre is recognized as the Premier Achiever Innovative and Multi-Awarded Presiding Judge. Dr. Edward Q. Perez is the Premier Achiever Remarkable Consultant in the Gaming Industry. Wej Cudiamat as the Premier Achiever Best Male Broadcaster of the year. Lino DG. Mallari is the Premier Achiever Excellent Host of Whatta Whatta Eurotv. Miller Daniolco is recognized as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Reliable Event Director and Excellent Photographer. Annabelle D. Surara as the Premier Achiever Best Female Broadcaster of the Year. Lae Manego who is recognized as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Women and Remarkable Pop Rock Performing Artist of the Year. Atty. Persida V. Rueda Acosta who will be honored as the Premier Achiever Outstanding and Inspiring Public Servant of the Year. Braggy Braganza who was recognized as the Premier Achiever Outstanding PTV Professional Network Voice-Over Announcer & as the Premier Achiever Best FM Radio Personality. Dennis Antenor Jr. as the Premier Achiever Best Radio Newscaster. Audrey Gorriceta as the Premier Achiever Outstanding News Anchor or the Year. Alfonso “Fifi” delos Santos as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Man and TV Host of the year. John Edward T. Tajanlangit aka Jed Madela as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Vocal Coach, Songwriter & Singer. Dianne Medina as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Woman and TV Host of the year. USEC Maria Catalina Cabral will be received as the Premier Achiever Outstanding in Public Service. Hon. Nelda A. Favillaran will be honored as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Vice Mayor of Ayungon, Negros Oriental. Jeffrey Dy as the Premier Achiever Excellence Leadership in Hair & Makeup and Choreography. Daiana Menezes as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Female TV Host and Singer of the year. Jamin Lim as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Photographer of the year. Keyrol Cabuso as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Owner and Remarkable Videographer. Bon Jheo Exconde as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Sought-After Photographer of the Year. Sam Coloso as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Fast Rising Actress, Best Female Host and Model. Marroth Nava as the Premier Achiever Trusted Professional Hair & Make-Up Artist of the Year. Janeena Chan as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Celebrity and Remarkable Host. Julie Anne San Jose as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Female Singer of the year. Alden Richards as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Entrepreneur and Inspiring Male Celebrity Actor. Jillian Ward as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Actress of the year. Neliza Cua Neal as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Fashion Designer and CEO of Neals Enesembles. Atty. Glynis Lynn R. Cabansag as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Property Dispute Attorney of the Year. Nodalyn Casaljay as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Leader and Female Entrepreneur of the year. Pocholo De Leon Gonzales as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Filipino Motivational Speaker. Conrado Cagas Tacgos Jr. aka DJ Bukol as the Premier Achiever Outstanding iFM Male DJ/Entertainer of the year. Sarah Medina as the Premier Achiever Trusted CEO in Credit Collection Services. Chris Tsuper as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Multi-awarded Radio Disc Jockey. Nicole Hyala as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Queen of Philippine Radio and Remarkable Events Host of the year. Raqi Terra as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Content Creator and Outstanding Radio DJ. Diego Bandido as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Radio Drama Director and Remarkable Male DJ. Mr. Ravve Jay Prevendido as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Male Entrepreneur and Trusted Business Leader, Mherie Vic Palomo Prevendido as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Female Entrepreneur and Trusted Business Leader. Caesar Vallejos as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Eagle Broadcasting Corporation Business Leader. Marvin G. Leyson Premier Achiever Outstanding Travel Vlogger and Inspiring Film Director. And Gov. Nilo P. Demerey Jr. who will be honored as the Premier Achiever Inspiring Dynamic Governor of Dinagat Islands.

“We are proud to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional individuals and companies who have raised the bar for excellence in their respective fields,” said the event organizers. “We hope that their stories will inspire others to strive for excellence and help build a stronger and more vibrant business community.”

The confirmed awardees are from different business industries and have been recognized as the best in their respective fields. These include Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services, Chef Chateau, Hiroshi Wellness Healthcare Solutions Philippines, PAP 360. IPHIOS Logistics Corp, Petals of Love MNL, Lagniappe Printshop, Through The Glass Creatives, LIVE LEVELS Pro Audio and Lights Services, Kenta Kogaku Corporation, Cave Beach Resort, Eyeleen Hair and Make-up by: Aileen Sebua, Studio 45k, IBMAMMJ Construction Services, Rise and Shine Pilipinas, PhilNONI & Phil. Morinda Citrifolia, Inc., AJES Enterprise, Al Bernaldez Couture, Myeongdong Corner, Media House Express, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Aliw Channel 23, Jam Lim Enterprises, Sparkle GMA Artist Center, Nabua Medical Equipment and Repair Services, Links Digital, Light TV, Coaching Training and Development Services, Love Radio, Macchiato Up, Eastland Hotel and Residences, Indak Hamaka Dance Company, & The Metropolista.

This year’s event is made possible with the support of our sponsors, Gown and Events Management by Touting, Adlin Events, JFBV & Lucky GHL Advertising as the Minor Sponsor and JP Catering Services as the Major Sponsor. We appreciate your commitment and dedication to recognizing excellence in the business industry.

Hailing from the organizers who brought us the very successful Philippine Finest Business Awards and Outstanding Achiever 2023, this event promises to surpass expectations. La Visual Corporation and Sirbisu Channel have a proven track record of recognizing and celebrating excellence, making them the perfect hosts for this prestigious affair.

The Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023 will be a night filled with highlights. From the red-carpet glamour to the awards presentation, attendees can look forward to:

Awardees from diverse sectors will share their inspiring journeys, underscoring the power of perseverance and innovation in achieving greatness.

The event will bring together industry leaders, influencers, and change-makers, providing a unique opportunity for meaningful connections and collaborations.

The heart of the event – the recognition of outstanding individuals and organizations. A panel of expert judges will determine the winners based on their significant contributions.

Media partners will have exclusive access to behind-the-scenes interviews, event coverage, and exclusive interviews with the awardees.

Our Event Media partners such as Malaya Business Insight, Business Mirror, Business World, Philippines Graphic, Pilipino Mirror, Manila Bulletin, Hataw Tabloid, Consumer Asia Magazine, The Market Mirror, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Media House Express, Amazing Manila Journal, Aliw Channel 23, Cook Mag, Pinoy OFW Today, Light TV, Light TV Radio, Balitang A2Z, ZOE TV, NET25 & The Metropolista.com

As the countdown to December 8th continues, anticipation is building. This gala promises not only to celebrate past achievements but also to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers in Southeast Asia. The Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023 is poised to make history as it shines a spotlight on excellence and innovation in our region.

For those who wish to be part of this momentous occasion, attendance is an opportunity to witness history in the making. Stay tuned for updates and details on how you can secure your place at this extraordinary event.

In a year that has challenged us all, the Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023 is a beacon of hope and a celebration of the enduring spirit of Southeast Asia. Mark your calendars and get ready to be part of an evening redefining the boundaries of excellence.

For more information and media inquiries, please contact: La Visual Corp at 0917-1372316 or (02) 721-91823 and email us at contact@lavisualcorporation.com or contact@southeastasianpremierawards.com

8 November 202310 November 2023

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.

8 November 202310 November 2023

SM’s Alfamart unveils its first solar venture in Cavite distribution center

Alfamart, the Super Minimart chain of the SM Group, has recently installed solar panels in its distribution center in Silang, Cavite.

This initiative aims to lessen the reliance of the 30,000 square meter distribution center on the community’s power supply while also lessening power costs and carbon emissions with the installation of 117 solar panels equivalent to 55,370 watts on its roof deck. The company targets to finish the second phase of the project with an additional 100,000 watts by December 2023.

“As Alfamart continues to expand and reach out to different areas, we are cognizant of our impact on the environment and the community. We are committed to integrating sustainability in our operations as we continue to serve communities,” said Harvey Ong, Chief Operating Officer of Alfamart.

Alfamart is also keen on replicating this initiative in its new stores depending on this initial phase. The company has a total of 1,590 stores as of September 2023.

The solar panels are designed to power the operations of Alfamart’s back offices despite changing seasons of the country. Any excess of generated electricity is utilized by the 24/7 operational warehouse.

Alfamart and all of its four distribution centers in Bulacan, Cavite, Pampanga, and Laguna further strengthen their initiatives towards sustainability by using electric forklifts and electric movers in their operations. The company has been using these electric forklifts and electric movers since the start of operations in 2014.

Alfamart Philippines is a joint venture between SM and Alfamart, one of the leading retailers with more than 21,000 mini-marts in Indonesia. Alfamart offers a wide assortment of products catering to daily needs including a selection of basic groceries, SM Bonus products, fresh and frozen goods, snacks, and personal care items at reasonable prices.

19 October 202329 November 2023

MANO PO, TATANG

How a childhood memory inspired this employee to work at the SM Store

If you told Johans Juruena that he’d be working at SM 12 years after he met its founder Henry Sy, Sr., he probably wouldn’t have believed you.

It was 1978, and the nine-year-old Johans was just looking forward to his yearly summer visit to Manila. Summers from his childhood were filled with memories of hanging around at what was then Shoemart along Carriedo Street in Quiapo, Manila, where his mother, Erlinda, worked as a sales clerk.

He still vividly remembers what the shoe store looked like. “Ang ibinebenta d’un, may men’s shoes, may ladies’ shoes, may pambata na rin talaga. May glass showcase sa gitna kung saan nand’un yung mga naka-display na sapatos,” he said.

(“It sold shoes for men, ladies, and children. There was a glass display in the middle where all the shoes were showcased.”)

However, there was a particular encounter that would shape his future career. During that same summer, Johans unexpectedly met the shoe store owner—Henry, whom SM employees fondly called “Tatang.”

A close encounter with Tatang

Johans shared that his mother immediately reminded him to pay his respects through pagmamano, the traditional gesture of respect toward the elderly by touching one’s forehead to the back of their hand as an act of “blessing.”

“N’ung bumisita si Tatang sa Carriedo para i-check yung display and items, nagkataon na nand’un ako. Isa ako sa mapalad na nakapagmano kay Tatang,” he recalled. “Nakangiti siya. Inabot niya kamay niya para makapagmano ako.”

(When Tatang visited the store along Carriedo to check the display and items, it just so happened that I was there. I was one of those lucky enough to approach him and pay my respects,” he recalled. “He was smiling. He even held out his hand for me to ‘bless.’)

While observing the store owner, Johans overheard how Tatang constantly quizzed his employees about what the customers needed. “Ano ba ang hinahanap ng customer na wala tayo?” Tatang would ask. “Ano ba ang kailangan ng customer na wala tayo?”

(What are customers looking for that we don’t have?” Tatang would ask. “What do our customers need that we don’t have?)

In that brief encounter, Johans caught what mattered most to Tatang – giving his customers what they need.

Working for SM

It was 1990, and Johans, fresh out of college, officially became part of SM. He first worked as a sales utility clerk, facing customers day in and day out.

“North EDSA ang first Supermall ni SM. N’ung panahon namin n’un, pag-open pa lang nang 10 o’clock, pag-roll up, yung mga customers nasa may entrance na sila. Grabe ang foot traffic ni North EDSA,” Johans recounted.

(North EDSA is the first Supermall of SM. During our time, customers would line up as soon as the mall opened before 10 a.m. The foot traffic at North EDSA was really something else.)

His next encounter with Tatang happened while handling the Men’s Shoes section at the SM Store North EDSA. “Nakita ko siyang bumisita. Supervisor na ako noon sa Men’s Shoes—1996 or 1997. Yung araw na ‘yun, wala ‘yung Manager, naka day-off. Usually, ‘yung una niyang pinupuntahan yung Men’s Shoes. Naka-ready kami lahat,” Johans shared.

(I saw him visit. I was already a Men’s Shoes Department supervisor—1996 or 1997. My manager wasn’t around that day; he had the day off. Usually, he [Tatang] would drop by the Men’s Shoes [section] first. We were all ready.)

Johans distinctly remembers how Tatang reminded him to keep the sandals and other footwear clean. That way, the customers could appreciate their products better. It was a simple but important lesson that Johans would carry with him even in the decades to come.

Salute to a continuing legacy

Fast forward to 2023. Many things have changed, but some things have remained constant. SM is celebrating its 65th year in the industry.

Johans’s experience working at SM is a testament to not only the company’s decades-long commitment to top-notch customer service, but also to Tatang’s enduring legacy. Johans is now a manager at SM Store Quiapo, with people working under him and following his guidance.