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Okada Manila Hosts Barbie’s 65th Anniversary Celebration: A Tribute to Empowerment and Dreams

Okada Manila is thrilled to announce an exceptional event celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Barbie, the quintessential icon of inspiration and empowerment across generations. Dubbed “Barbie 65th Anniversary – Inspiring Stories, Shaping the Future,” this grand celebration will unfold at Cove Manila from April 27 to June 2, 2024, commemorating Barbie’s profound influence on encouraging dreams and aspirations since her inception in 1959. This celebration is designed to bring together Barbie fans of all ages, highlighting her significant impact on culture and society.

Event Highlights

The Barbie 65th Anniversary celebration will see Cove Manila transformed into a colorful journey through Barbie’s storied history. Highlights include:

Barbie Interactive Tunnel (Crystal Pavilion): A spotlight feature where attendees can traverse Barbie’s iconic moments. It includes a beautifully lit Barbie acrylic logo with spaces for visitors to engage in activities such as sharing inspirational stories on a post-it note wall and expressing how Barbie has inspired their futures.

Barbie Dream Camper: For the first time ever, a life-sized Barbie open camper will be presented, divided into three play areas for an immersive experience into Barbie’s world.

Barbie Diorama: An extensive exhibition featuring over 130 Barbie Career Dolls from 1959 to the present day, showcasing the evolution of Barbie’s roles and professions.

Barbie Ice Cream Cart and Food Truck: Offering toys-inspired treats and actual food, creating a delightful experience for kids and families.

“You Can Be Anything” Pop-Up Booth: Lighted booths depicting various Barbie careers to inspire visitors about the endless possibilities they can achieve.

Barbie Activity Area and 65th Photo Op Box: An area dedicated to interactive activities including a diorama display, a free play table, and a TV for webisode playback. It also features a mini-mirror for kids’ selfies and an interactive wall where visitors can post their dreams.

Year-Round Family Getaway at Cove Manila

The Beach Club of the iconic Cove Manila.

In addition to the Barbie celebration, Cove Manila continues to be a premier family destination throughout the year. Its 9,000-square-meter dome, equipped with temperature control and UV protection, offers a unique beach club experience right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect year-round getaway for families seeking fun and relaxation.

Empowering the Next Generation

This event transcends mere nostalgia, aiming to inspire the next generation with interactive and engaging exhibits that encourage children to dream without limits.

“We are honored to host the 65th Anniversary of Barbie at Cove Manila, showcasing her lasting impact in empowering young minds to break traditional boundaries,” said Vikki Aquino, Director of Spas, Recreation, and Kids’ Club at Okada Manila. “We invite everyone to join us in this inspirational celebration.”

Moreover, the celebration includes a “Daycation” package, allowing guests to experience Barbie’s world firsthand, exploring her house and the myriad of careers she has represented over the years.

Mark your calendars for this memorable event at Cove Manila, Okada Manila, from April 27 to June 2, 2024. It’s an opportunity to honor Barbie’s enduring legacy and the unlimited possibilities she symbolizes. The ticket price for this once-in-a-lifetime event is PHP1,988, inclusive of a set meal, promising a celebration that will be both inspiring and fun.

About Okada Manila

Okada Manila, a Forbes 5-star luxury destination in the Philippines, showcases unparalleled hospitality, gaming, and entertainment across 30 hectares. Home to the world-renowned The Fountain, a $30 million water choreography marvel, and Cove Manila, the world’s largest indoor beach club and nightclub, it leads in leisure and nightlife. Offering the Philippines’ largest gaming floor with a vast array of table games and electronic gaming machines, Okada Manila is a hub for luxury and innovation in gaming, with exclusive clubs like Perlas, Maharlika, and the VIP Club providing elite experiences. Family entertainment options include PLAY and Thrillscape, catering to developmental and recreational needs. The Forbes 5-star-rated The Retreat Spa and The Sole Retreat promote wellness, complemented by 17 dining venues and luxury shopping at Retail Boulevard. With 993 luxurious accommodations and state-of-the-art event spaces, alongside digital innovations like the Okada Online Casino and Okada Manila App, Okada Manila is the ultimate destination for thrill, relaxation, and luxury. Visit https://www.okadamanila.com/ to explore.

#OkadaManila #Barbie65thAnniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Properties Excel at Radisson Hotel Group’s SEAP GM’s Conference

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) properties reap multiple awards during the recently concluded 2024 Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) South East Asia Pacific GM’s Conference held at Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu last March 25-28.

Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA was voted 2023 Hotel of the Year beating other properties in the Philippines and Fiji. To be bestowed such an accolade means that the hotel has achieved all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) and is a clear testament of the hotel’s steadfast dedication to unaparalleled service excellence, exceptional guest experience, and continuous innovation.

Façade of Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, the 2023 Hotel of the Year.

Furthermore, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA General Manager Ms. Ann Olalo was awarded Talent Developer of the Year. This is a category that has just been introduced this year in recognition of General Managers who significantly invest in their team’s growth. As such, the company takes pride in saying that Ms. Olalo is the first recipient of such an award. She was chosen over other nominated GMs in Medan and Batam, Indonesia. The award acknowledges Ms. Olalo’s outstanding leadership in determining, cultivating, and empowering talent within the organization. Inspired by her unwavering commitment to drive the professional growth and development of the hotel’s team members, Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA has established a standard for talent management in the region, showcasing a commitment to the fulfillment of the hotel’s goals and promoting a culture of excellence.

Last but not the least, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu won the Operational Excellence Award for two years in a row. The award is accorded to the hotel whose exemplary performance across the region exhibits an impressive delivery of all its KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), together with a meticulous assessment of the hotel’s overall portfolio optimisation, brand management, sales and revenue management, conduct of responsible business practices, and the like with an overall compliance to Radisson Hotel Group’s stringent quality standards.

Gracing the occasion are no less than SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Executive Vice President Ms. Peggy E. Angeles, and Radisson Hotel Group Area Senior Vice President for South East Asia & Pacific Mr. Andre de Jong. Not to mention, Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu GM Marko Janssen, who hosted the three-day conference, as well as Park Inn by Radisson GMs of SM Hotel’s other properties, and all other RHG GM’s from the region were also present.

As one of the country’s major hotel developers, SMHCC is poised to embark succeeding years of innovation, expansion, and multiplication of more hotel properties, giving Filipinos and foreigners alike additional quality accommodation options that suit every occasion and celebation.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

#SMHotelsandConventionsCorp #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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‘Mebuyan’s Colony’ in CCP: Function Beyond the Fantastical

Whether physical, social, or personal, art always serves a purpose and goes beyond aesthetics and well into the needs of the artist and the community. Such is the case for multidisciplinary artist Leeroy New’s Mebuyan’s Colony, the featured Earth Day art installation of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). The unveiling will take place on April 25 at 6 p.m. at the CCP Front Lawn.

Raising environmental awareness and championing green initiatives, Mebuyan’s Colony is a large-scale immersive environment that combines New’s fascination with science fiction and Philippine mythology, reflected in the giant spheres on bamboo stilts.

Based on Bagobo mythology, Mebuyan is the goddess residing in the underworld whose body is engulfed with seemingly infinite breasts. Pods akin to wombs allude to Mebuyan’s dual role as the goddess of death and fertility, sustaining the spirits of children who have passed and transforming and nourishing them into adults capable of continuing the journey through the afterlife.

New’s use of natural materials, found objects, and assorted discards transformed into representations of a specific speculative future intersects Filipino contemporary life, pre-colonial mythology, and environmentalism.

“Our references to local stories and pre-colonial mythology can determine our approach to creative production. I referenced Mebuyan and other pre-colonial stories because most of us only get to hear the same stories, paulit-ulit,” he explains. “We don’t hear about Mebuyan, the goddess of death and fertility, who nurtures the spirits of dead babies. So there are a lot of principles and elements that we miss out on.”

Leeroy New

For the fifth iteration of the Mebuyan series, New incorporated this year’s Earth Day celebration theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” as he utilized additional materials to protect plants against the hotter weather.

“I’m really drawn to pieces that explore practicality and functionality. When we built Mebuyan’s Colony, I wondered how we could build something more. How can we move away from practical structures, like cube forms, versus more creative and fantastical forms, like these clusters of spheres?” shared New.

The Mebuyan installation at the CCP will utilize blue gallons instead of the usual clear plastic bottles. New explores a more semi-architectural and sculpture-like way of grouping that can mitigate the heat to ensure that the plants will thrive.

“It’s all experimental, but the goal is for the plants to survive inside and under the structure,” said New.

Born in General Santos City, New made up for the lack of art galleries and museums in the area with horror and sci-fi films, magic shows, card games, and illustrated books as his early art references. The artist-designer draws motivation from the continuous element of play and exploration in artmaking.

“The concept of world-building became an important principle and determining idea in how I implemented my art practice. I had dreams of participating in building worlds physically and, in a practical way, through architecture. Also, building worlds, imagined or representational, through film,” shared New.

With Mebuyan’s Colony, New shared how the installation went against the rock and metallic forms that try to go into outer space to colonize other planets. Instead, it represented more regenerative and inward-looking principles, showing how human beings redefine their relationship with Mother Earth.

On his way of manifesting his vision in his art, New elaborated:  “It’s not just the idea of the themes of sci-fi in my work, but slowly moving towards the functional side. It’s not enough to represent something in art, so it’s time to explore how to make it practical and useful.”

To get the latest updates on Mebuyan’s Colony, follow the official CCP and CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

#MebuyansColony #CCP #LeeroyNew #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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This Boracay Italian Restaurant is 21 years old and counting

Imagine sinking your teeth into the cheesy goodness of a crispy yet moist prosciutto pizza slice that’s baked fresh inside a wood-fired brick oven, prepared by an Italian Chef, no less. As you take the bite, strings of melty cheese are pulled away, and you savor the flavors of Italy bursting on your palate. You look at the view of sparkling blue seas from a comfortable second-floor dining balcony and feel the fine, powdery sand between your toes as you head out. No need to imagine for long, this is a reality at ARIA Cucina Italiana.

 Established in 2003 on world-renowned Boracay island, the 21-year-old beachfront restaurant stands the test of time with its authentic cuisine, owned by entrepreneurs Juan Elizalde and Paolo Occhionero, under the leadership of Italian Executive Chef, Salvatore Vincentis. Vincentis’ delectable and authentic creations continue to wow people from all over the globe. No wonder, his standards in the kitchen are strict, especially when it comes to the freshness and quality of ingredients, as some are even flown in straight from Italy so as not to compromise their delicious Italian fare. ARIA’s curated menu is the most comprehensive one on the island, with dishes catering to various tastes and preferences.

ARIA has been providing the best Italian fare in Boracay for 21 years and counting.

Other than their high-quality ingredients, it’s the wood-fired brick oven that makes their pizzas truly delicious. It packs on the flavor, thanks to the intense heat it generates that cooks the pizza quickly, resulting in a crisp crust while locking in moisture and flavor. The wood imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the pizza you can’t achieve with other cooking methods. It also tends to keep authenticity alive as they have been used for centuries in Italy and other parts of the world for baking bread and cooking pizza. The tradition and craftsmanship associated with these ovens add an element of authenticity to the pizza-making process, which ARIA guests surely love.

Their extensive selection of 26 pizza varieties inspired by various regions in Italy is sure to impress you. For other menu items, you can also indulge in their Fritto di Calamari con Maionese Elle Erbe and Prosciutto e Mango, both considered some of the best appetizers on the island. As for salads, it’s the Cocomero Salad that people quite regularly enjoy.

Pizza large

For pasta lovers, there are the special black fettuccine pasta dishes with the Fettuccine Nere and Al Nero. The Chicken Parmigiana, baked to perfection in their brick oven, is also a crowd favorite. To try something new, our Gnocchi alla Sorrentina AKA potato dumplings are an underrated delight. To quench your thirst, they also offer Italian cocktails with an extensive list of wines that are sure to complement your mouth-watering dishes. To end your meal on a sweet note, treat yourself to ARIA Tris di Dolci or their perfectly creamy ARIA Gelato with a wide selection of 18 flavors, made fresh daily with imported ingredients. With all gelato flavors crafted daily, it’s undeniably the finest ice cream dessert experience in Boracay.

ARIA Cucina Italiana continues to thrive as a top-of-mind Italian beachfront restaurant, despite all the challenges it faced during Boracay’s closures for the island rehabilitation in 2018, and then followed by the pandemic in 2020. Choosing to stay open to keep staff employed, they continued operations and adapted a digital system for online orders and delivery.

With 21 years of authentic Italian food that never compromises on taste and quality, and best-rated reviews on TripAdvisor and Google, be sure to expect many more to come.

 Visit ARIA Cucina Italiana at D’Mall, Station 2, Boracay Island.
Follow them on Instagram @ariacucinaitaliana.
See the menu here.  Order via Viber: +63 998 482 8490

#ARIACucinaItaliana #Boracay #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Born to Bloom: BEVI comes of age, dominates industries as it reaches its 18th year

Truly inspirational success stories in the ever-changing world of business are few and far between. One such tale is that of Beauty Elements Ventures, Inc. (BEVI)., a beauty and skincare company established in 2006, now celebrating 18 years of remarkable growth and achievement.

Like a seed planted with a strong vision, BEVI entered the market strong–the first to introduce commercial use of kojic acid in the Philippines. Determined to grow and flourish, the company developed a range of high-quality products; and is now housing brands that cater to categories beyond skin care.

BEVI navigated the competitive landscape with grit, creativity, and dynamic strategy at its very core, guided by its desire to foster genuine connection with the market.

The company did not stop with a single seed that grew into a revolutionary product; instead; BEVI continued to innovate, deliver excellent products, and expand its portfolio, reaching success beyond beauty, skincare, and wellness.

Through this forward-thinking mindset, the company overcame challenges and emerged stronger each time, proving that from the very beginning, it was born to bloom.

Now, in its coming-of-age year, BEVI has blossomed into a flourishing company, setting the standard for others to follow suit.

As it strives to elevate the company and its brands, BEVI is thrilled to unveil exciting product launches that delve into new territories.

Diamond Skin By Kojiesan

Kojie.san, the brand that has earned its premier spot in the market, introduces Kojie.san +, which takes skincare to new heights of luxury and indulgence. Meanwhile, Life by Kojie.San will enable consumers to experience beauty from within, with its range of liquid food supplements. Revolutionizing the brand even more, Diamond Skin by Kojie.San will offer a treasure trove of skincare delights, in the form of a skincare set with potent active ingredients.

BEVI likewise redefines the standard of hygiene with Defensil, a revolutionary line of products that blends advanced protection against germs with a nurturing touch for the skin–a testament to BEVI’s dedication to overall wellness.

True to its vision to expand and excel in newer markets, the company is also venturing into the pet food market.

Happy Bites by Top2Tail is a line of dog food infused with love, dedication, and passion for pets, guaranteed to delight furry companions at every life stage with wholesome and delicious meals.

Happy Bites

BEVI’s pursuit of innovation extends beyond these quality products.

Aligned with its commitment to taking its services to the next level, it proudly introduces an array of offerings under its esteemed group of companies.

BIGi (Basic Integrated Global, Inc.) provides comprehensive solutions in eCommerce, global distribution expansion, and digital marketing initiatives; SPC Microtech boasts state-of-the-art analytical and testing laboratories to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficacy in products; BEVM (Beauty Elements Ventures Manufacturing, Inc)., and OSP (One Stand Point Manufacturing Corporation) are dynamic forces in manufacturing services; and the world-class PBB (Philippine Bottling Beverage) manufactures and tolls bottled products.  

With all these and more to come, it is clear that BEVI will only grow, evolve, and blossom in the future, continuing to fulfill its destiny as a company born to bloom.

#BEVI #BEVIBornToBloom #Kojiesan #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Kathryn Bernardo named as first ambassador of this iconic beauty brand

Iconic French beauty brand Lancôme has named Kathryn Bernardo as its first brand ambassador and the ultimate Idôle. The trailblazing actress not only embodies Lancôme’s values but also inspires women with her confidence, which radiates from the inside out.

In selecting their first ambassador for the country, Lancôme Philippines sought an individual who would embody and amplify their ethos of empowerment, happiness, and authentic beauty.

“More than just a brand representative, this person needed to be a resilient, confident woman whose essence reflected Lancôme’s belief in happiness as a source of beauty. She would set an example for Filipinas to dream big and speak up about their beliefs. With these considerations in mind, Lancôme Philippines found the perfect fit in multi-hyphenated actress Kathryn Bernardo.” says Son Ha Nguyen, Division General Manager for L’Oréal Luxe.

Recently, Kathryn revealed a new side of her public persona—edgy, modern, and daring. As an influential actress, Kathryn actively uplifts and represents modern-day Filipinas everywhere. Her talent and hard work have earned her recognition as “Asia’s Superstar” and “Blockbuster Queen.” Throughout her journey, she’s represented morena beauty, challenging societal norms and inspiring many Filipinas to embrace their natural beauty. Kathryn’s dedication to empowering women and promoting authenticity to be your own Idôle, makes her the perfect fit for Lancôme.

Kathryn shares, “As I enter a new Kath era, I am happier knowing I can constantly redefine who I am, find peace in my own company, and accept being a work in progress. Here’s to you—because you can be your own Idôle. Join the ride with me as the first-ever Lancôme Philippines Ambassador”.

It’s no coincidence that Lancôme Idôle was crafted by women, for women. Shyamala Maisondieu, Nadège Le Garlantezec, and Adriana Medina are three master perfumers from France who poured their hearts and souls into creating the classic scent. Together, these three women crafted a fragrance that’s not just a scent, but a symbol of empowerment and authenticity, one that also calls women everywhere to be their own Idôles, dream big, and make their voices heard.

“Kathryn Bernardo perfectly embodies the essence of Lancôme, empowering women to be their own Idôles. Her dedication to promoting authenticity and uplifting Filipinas makes her the perfect fit for our brand,” says Yannick Raynaud, L’Oréal Philippines Country Managing Director. “As Lancôme Philippines’ very first ambassador, Kathryn inspires us all to dream big and take charge. We are thrilled to have her as the face of Idôle, and we can’t wait to see how she continues to inspire Filipinas everywhere.”

#KathrynBernardo #Lancome #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Marking 12 Years: F1 Hotel’s Anniversary Celebrations with Acts of Giving

We often hear that children are the future, but what if their future seems more daunting than promising? Fortunately, there are places that provide these resilient young souls with not just a home, but also the hope for a brighter tomorrow. One such sanctuary is the National Children’s Hospital located in Manila.

As F1 Hotel Manila commemorates its 12th year of crafting joyful experiences in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, its ethos extends beyond its walls to embrace the remarkable warriors at the National Children’s Hospital. The indomitable spirit, courage, and resilience of these children are honored with moments of happiness and optimism, bringing smiles to their faces through activities and special times organized by F1 Hotel Manila’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.

Donations

F1 Hotel Manila prides itself on creating memorable experiences, and this project aims to provide just that for these admirable young fighters. Their journey is marked by challenges that only the strongest among us can confront head-on, which is why they deserve the unwavering support that this humble initiative seeks to offer, ensuring that they are cherished and empowered every step of the way. To know more about F1 Hotel Manila, please visit our website page at https://www.f1hotelmanila.com/

#F1HotelManila #12thanniversary #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Liza Soberano Joins Jury Panel at Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival 2024

The Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival (HIFF) returns in 2024, promising another spectacular showcase of cinematic brilliance from around the world. Amidst the excitement and anticipation, one name stands out –    Liza Soberano, our very own renowned actress, has been selected as a distinguished member of the jury panel for the festival’s First or Second Film category.

HIFF is an annual extravaganza that serves as a global platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts to converge, celebrate, and explore the captivating art of storytelling through film. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the festival has earned a reputation for its commitment to showcasing diverse narratives and fostering creative dialogue within the cinematic community.

Liza Soberano’s involvement in the festival adds a new dimension of prestige and expertise to the esteemed jury panel. This represents a significant milestone in her illustrious career. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent and versatility as an actress, Liza’s role as a juror underscores her commitment to nurturing and supporting emerging talents in the global film industry. By lending her expertise and discerning eye to the festival’s First or Second Film category, Liza not only elevates the prestige of HIFF but also solidifies her reputation as a substantial figure in the entertainment landscape. Her dedication to championing diverse narratives and fostering creative dialogue further cements her position as a leading actress with a profound impact on the cinematic world.

Joining Liza Soberano on the jury panel are esteemed individuals from the  cinematic world, including Nguyen Thanh Van (jury president), Luong Dinh Dung, Tom Cross, Samuel Jamier, John Badalu, and Trinh Dinh Le Minh. Together, they will bring their wealth of experience and discerning eye to select the most outstanding works in the First or Second Film category.

We invite audiences around the world to join us in celebrating the Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival 2024 and the remarkable contributions of Liza Soberano and the esteemed jury panel. As the festival continues to push boundaries and redefine cinematic excellence, we look forward to witnessing the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of cinema on our lives. Let us unite in embracing the magic of film and the boundless creativity it inspires.

#LizaSoberano  #HoChiMinhCityInternationalFilmFestival2024 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Unlocking the Gateway to Prosperity

Burbank, California — A revolutionary chapter in entrepreneurial opportunity is being written by Melody Avecilla, the illustrious founder of Cost Wise Insurance. With the unveiling of an unparalleled franchising opportunity, Cost Wise Insurance stands at the forefront of insurance service innovation, beckoning Filipinos to the American Dream with the promise of business ownership in the United States.

Established on the cornerstone principles of efficiency, affordability, and superior customer service, Cost Wise Insurance has carved its niche as a leading Insurance Super Center. It is here that individuals and businesses from varied sectors find a haven for their insurance needs, enveloped in trust and excellence.

For over two decades, Cost Wise Insurance, showcasing a formidable portfolio of over 25 top-rated insurance carriers, has held the mantle of a full-service agency where time and cost-efficiency are not just valued—they are revered. The company’s licensed specialists are the architects of customized plans, meticulously designed to fit the unique requirements of each client.

“Our suite of insurance products is comprehensive, encompassing everything from business insurance for varied industries to personal protection and financial services. Whether you’re a healthcare facility or a restaurant, an auto body shop, or manage a commercial fleet, we’ve built coverage options to secure your enterprise and family against the unpredictable,” states Avecilla, exuding the confidence of a leader who has stood at the helm of insurance innovation.

This strategic expansion through franchising is an open invitation to entrepreneurial minds longing to be part of a legacy of success and customer-centric service. Avecilla explains, “The launch of this franchising opportunity marks a new era for Cost Wise Insurance. We are eager to embrace ambitious individuals into our fold, nurturing a community bound by a shared passion for exemplary service and inherent value.”

The franchising program by Cost Wise Insurance is a masterclass in accessibility and support. It offers franchisees an arsenal of resources, ongoing guidance, and a robust training program, setting them on a trajectory towards success in a competitive landscape.

As an Independent Insurance Agent, Cost Wise Insurance offers its clients the luxury of choice and the warmth of personalized service. It’s a symbiotic relationship with financially solid and reputable insurance companies that ensures the best coverage at the most competitive prices.

Embracing the Filipino community, Cost Wise Insurance lays down the red carpet for Filipinos seeking to embark on their business journey in the US. The company’s investor visa program is a beacon for families striving for a new chapter of opportunity and prosperity in the United States.

Melody Avecilla — A Portrait of Innovation and Success

  • The inventive mind behind Runway Heels
  • A seasoned expert with over 20 years in the insurance industry
  • A thought leader featured in Forbes
  • A mentor who has propelled hundreds of agents towards their dreams
  • The voice of a cutting-edge podcast

In tandem with the franchising opportunity is the launch of Avecilla’s book, “Sellebrate: Sales Guide for Those Who Hate to Lose.” This manifesto redefines the ethos of sales in an era where only the tenacious thrive. “Sellebrate” is the crystallization of Avecilla’s profound expertise, a tactical manual for those who relentlessly chase victory.

“Sellebrate” delves into the essence of a sale, offering readers an opportunity to master the art of deal-closure and transform challenges into triumphs. The book is a treasure trove of practical strategies and psychological insights designed to empower you to outshine the competition.

For more information on how to be a part of this franchising journey, or to discover how “Sellebrate” can revolutionize your approach to sales, visit costwiseinsurancefranchise.com, or reach out directly through our official communication channels.

Join us as we celebrate this monumental event and step through the gateway to the American Dream.

#costwiseinsurance #CostwiseFranchiseOpportunity #americanDream #sellebrate #MelodyAvecilla

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RCBC honors MSMEs in Luzon for advancing financial inclusion

Laguna, Philippines – Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) honored its partner micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as leading advocates for financial inclusion in the provinces of Luzon during the RCBC ATM Go Gawad Kabalikat sa Negosyo 2024 Sales Rally and Regional Awards held last April 1, 2024 at The Monochrome in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

A total of 100 MSMEs from Luzon received distinctions from RCBC as champions of the bank’s mission of making digital banking services accessible to Filipinos living in low-income, remote, and rural areas. The collaborative efforts of the partner merchants and RCBC yielded a whopping coverage rate of 81% of municipalities, 100% of cities, and 100% of provinces nationwide for the bank’s grassroots-oriented and bank-agnostic digital solution RCBC ATM Go. RCBC has partnered with MSMEs since the inception of RCBC ATM Go to provide additional income for enterprises, tap into the social trust that they have built with their communities, and empower them to become leading advocates of digital finance and financial literacy in their areas.

The strong and meaningful partnerships RCBC has pursued with the public sector is part of the success of RCBC ATM Go. Officials from the government graced the event and congratulated RCBC and the merchants for successfully mounting the event and expanding the financial services network in the country. The agencies highlighted the essential role the bank plays in the country’s economy, financial community, and MSME sector.

The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) recognized the hard work of the RCBC ATM Go merchants which include cooperatives in Luzon for making financial services reachable and functional in the most remote parts of the country.

“It shows they put heart, especially empathy, at the center of their innovations, services, and culture. We congratulate all the partner merchants including cooperatives with us today, and applaud them for their efforts to bring digital finance even to the farthest of places,” the Cooperative Development Authority Region IV-A’s Senior Cooperative Development Specialist Mr. Dexter Perez said.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) also lauded the efforts of RCBC in increasing the opportunities for MSMEs to generate additional income. The government agency also highlighted the role of RCBC in enabling entrepreneurs to enjoy convenient business transactions through the bank’s wide array of business solutions.

“Financial institutions play a big role in the success of MSMEs and the business establishment. We are happy that RCBC has expanded its ATM Go network nationwide and is now recognizing its top partners in various regions. We wish our partner RCBC the best in their initiatives,” DTI Laguna Provincial Director Mr. Christian Ted Tungohan said.

The top merchants for Luzon expressed their gratitude to RCBC for recognizing their efforts. “Ang sarap lang po sa pakiramdam na meron pong ganitong event si RCBC para sa aming mga merchant po, yung mararamdaman mo talaga na nagbubunga yung mga hardwork na ibinibigay mo sa business mo,” Ann Aubrey Angeles, one of the top merchants from San Miguel, Bulacan, said in jubilation.

“Opportunity comes in 2023, we were given this ATM Go ng RCBC and it changed our life. Minsan natutulog na kami, alas onse o alas dose ng gabi every Friday night pag gabi na dumating ang sweldo ng mga sineserbisyuhan namin, talagang nagtitiis kami kahit gabi dahil sa RCBC ATM Go. Pero dahil dun sa kinikita, nage-enjoy ka rin, nasabi namin sa sarili namin, with RCBC ATM Go, you can Go for More!,” said top merchant Engr. Andy Landicho from Batangas City.

During the sales rally, RCBC also introduced the newest features and capabilities of RCBC ATM Go that the merchants and their customers would enjoy for this year. On top of these innovative features is the acceptance of internationally-registered credit and debit cards for cash withdrawals, activation of key partners as digital lending agents in a newly approved banking campaign, expansion of billers in the bills payment section, sending cash and accepting cash payouts, cash out services through QR codes, and opening of bank accounts through the ATM Go terminals.

The expanded list of services further elevates RCBC ATM Go as a powerful equipment that bridges rural and remote communities to the global and urban ecosystem of fintech and finance. The overall goal of introducing these services to the most distant and isolated communities is to give them economic opportunities to create livelihood and expand their businesses. Most importantly, these wider opportunities enable the merchants to expand their additional sources of revenue and capital, and attract more MSMEs to join the growing community of digital finance advocates.

RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief of Innovations and Inclusion Officer Lito Villanueva addressed the champion merchants and thanked them for helping the bank’s financial inclusion drive. “RCBC ATM Go is our groundbreaking and pioneering phygital (physical-digital) blended banking solution. During the pandemic, while other banks are scrambling to shift to digital, RCBC is already there, two steps ahead, and scaling our digital services. Our ATM Go merchants strategically located all over the country greatly helped us in our march to digital and financial inclusion, empowering more of our kababayans and ensuring that “No Filipino is Left Behind,” Villanueva said.

RCBC ATM Go is one of the Philippines’ leading and topnotch multi-awarded digital solutions that has transformed communities from barren lands of stagnant growth to lush areas of opportunities through its highly innovative banking services. In 2023, the ATM Go recorded an impressive 727% year-on-year growth rate as an excess of 6,000 terminals were deployed and 2,100 partners were onboarded into the program. RCBC also announced that the forecast Compound Annual Growth Rate of the bank was at an astronomical 82% for terminals and 114% for partner-merchants. The solution is regarded as one of the most financial inclusion-centric in the country as 90% of its transactions are traced outside Metro Manila and more than 60% of the transactions are affiliated with the conditional cash transfer program of the government – Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program and with the disbursement of payroll to teachers, military and police personnel. ATM Go is also foreseen as a potential pillar of the tourism sector as terminals have been strategically stationed in high-volume tourist areas where banks are absent and ATMs are scarce.

The RCBC ATM Go Gawad Kabalikat sa Negosyo 2024 Sales Rally has four legs: Regional Awarding Ceremonies in Sta. Rosa, Laguna for Luzon; Catarman, Northern Samar for the Visayas; and Davao City for Mindanao and a National Awarding at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The event is made possible by the invaluable support of the bank’s partners: Malayan Insurance, RCBC Telemoney, and RCBC Credit Cards, Personal Loans, and Payment Solutions with its wide array of Digital Loan Products – RCBC Payday NOW, RCBC Salary Loan NOW and RCBC Personal Digital Loan.

RCBC emerged as the fastest-growing bank in the country, leapfrogging from eighth position in 2018 to fifth in 2023 in the list of the Philippines’ largest privately owned banks in terms of assets. Among its global and local recognitions include a four-peat award as the Philippines’ Best Bank for Digital by Asiamoney, the Eye on Innovation Award by Gartner, YouTube Challenger Award for its viral and out-of-the-box digital ad campaigns generating combined views of over 17 million, Grand Champion for Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion by the Bankers Institute of the Philippines, Number 1 in the Philippine Best Customer Service 2023 survey by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and global research firm Statista, and No 1 in system uptime according to a regional banks study by Brankas.

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