#LivetoLove: Genteel Home celebrates a decade of inspired living

Genteel Home, a premier furniture design studio in Angeles, Pampanga, officially opened its doors to its newest furniture atelier at the Podium Mall in Mandaluyong City today, July 13, 2023, as it celebrates 10 years in the Philippine home furnishing industry.

The day started with a holy mass and blessing of the store, followed by the ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the force behind Genteel Home, Founder and Principal Designer Katrina de Leon, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, and Actress and International Fashion Icon Heart Evangelista. “Our goal is for you to feel seen and understood as if your desires have been brought to life because Genteel Home is an embodiment of all that is personal, touching, and inspiring. This is what we proudly showcase here at our newest Design Atelier. It is an open invitation for anyone to step in and have a piece of furniture uniquely designed for them,” Kat de Leon said.

During the opening of Genteel Home’s furniture atelier, Katrina presented Heart with an iconic chair thoughtfully created especially for the International Fashion Icon, “This is something that I would definitely love to have. Life is too short and you just really want to live your life as fullest as possible. At the end of the day, you want a peaceful home, that feels full of love and your furniture does reflect that. So choose something that would calm your soul,” Heart said.

In the evening, Genteel Home transformed the Bonifacio Hall of Manila House into an enchanting garden as part of its 10th-anniversary celebration and launched five more iconic chairs inspired by five other Filipino icons who made a mark in their respective fields. These include Olympic Gold Medalist Hidilyn Diaz; Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Box-office comedy queen Vice Ganda; award-winning broadcast journalist Karen Davila; and multi-awarded actor and singer Piolo Pascual.

“I am proud to say that every bespoke masterpiece meticulously crafted by Genteel Home holds a story, a narrative that transcends time and connects generations. It’s a tale of love, joy, and memories, waiting to be shared and treasured by your loved ones in the years to come. We don’t just create furniture; we create milestones and legacies. We believe that the objects we surround ourselves with shape our lives and leave a lasting impact,” Katrina shared.

Dimples Romana, Genteel Home’s brand ambassador, also shared why she fell in love with the brand, “For us women, we just find a mirror and then we look at ourselves and tapos na kasi nagmamadali ka. When it comes to Genteel pieces, you stay there because you just want to look at yourself and empower yourself even more.”

The journey of Genteel Home began in 2013 when Katrina received a special commission to create a unique piece of furniture.  From that moment, Katrina’s passion for the intricate art of furniture making blossomed, transforming living spaces into realms of beauty and inspiration.

Beyond their creative prowess, Genteel Home is a brand with a conscience. Sustainability and community lie at the core of their values. The studio has invested in its own Mahogany farm, ensuring that for every furniture creation, trees are replenished. This not only promotes sustainability but also provides valuable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Genteel Home takes pride in meticulously considering every aspect of its business, always driven by love. The brand’s unwavering commitment to delivering bespoke furniture pieces, promoting sustainability, world-class Filipino craftsmanship, and uplifting communities are testaments to their passion and vision.

 

#GenteelHome #SM Supermalls #HeartEvangelista #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

FinTech Alliance.PH to chart the course of digital economy in INDX3 Summit

MANILA, Philippines – INDX3 Summit, the highly-anticipated, annual gathering of the country’s top forward-thinking leaders from the fintech industry, is gearing up for its third edition, happening on August 7 to 8, 2023 at Shangri-La The Fort, Taguig City.

This year’s Inclusion and Digital Transformation (INDX) Summit will focus on “Creating What’s Next In Digital,” as today’s esteemed industry figureheads discuss how to “Dare, Drive, and Defy.” The theme for 2023, “Navigate the Digital Economy and Witness Emerging Discoveries,” will see a momentous convergence of expertise and insights that will leave behind a monumental and impactful legacy in the industry for years to come.

The INDX Summit is celebrated for shining a spotlight on the astounding growth and significant progress of the FinTech industry, not only in Southeast Asia, but globally. The event is in collaboration with cherished partners Department of Finance, Bangko ng Sentral ng Pilipinas, Securities and Exchange Commission, Insurance Commission, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Trade and Industry, Credit Information Corporation, National Privacy Commission, and Anti-Money Laundering Council. Global partners such as Mastercard, Singapore Fintech Association, Gorriceta, Cash, S&P Global, Brankas, Netcore, and InvestHK will be present as well.

This year’s INDX3 Summit is fully focused on fostering the country’s thriving digital economy under the rich FinTech sector by bridging the gap between the customer and advanced technological innovations, recognizing the crucial role emerging discoveries play in driving transformative progress in today’s digital economy. The summit will further delve into how industry players can utilize digital innovations and assets more safely, conveniently, and efficiently while helping consumers adapt to the rapidly-growing digital transformation era.

Fintech Alliance.Ph is spearheading the groundbreaking event. It is the country’s largest collaboration of strategic digital finance players and start-ups that collectively generated over 90 percent of fintech-initiated financial transactions volume. Fintech Alliance.Ph is working to reshape the Philippines’ digital economy – building and expanding a sustainable digital financial ecosystem, where every Filipino, especially the underprivileged, benefits from it. Fintech Alliance.Ph also recently launched the country’s first nationwide, multi-stakeholder, industry-led consumer education and cybersecurity awareness campaign with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas dubbed #WagMagpalokoMagingScamAlerto.

Fintech Alliance.Ph is led by Lito Villanueva as Founding Chairman since its inception in 2017. As the Philippines’ award-winning and leading thought leader in inclusive digital finance, Lito Villanueva has accumulated over 100 accolades in the past 25 years, as multiple organizations continue to recognize his life-changing contributions to the developmental and digital finance sphere in the country and abroad. Among these include being named as the 2022 Global Filipino Executive of the Year Circle of Excellence by the Asia CEO Awards, Chief Innovation Officer of the Year by Financial Times-owned “The Banker,” and Mr. Fintech of the Philippines by NewsBiz Asia. He is also among the Top 100 Fintech Leaders in Asia and Top 100 Filipinos in LinkedIn.

“This highly-awaited gathering of the Philippines’ top visionaries, thought leaders, industry figures, and trailblazers signifies the immense power of collaboration and the historic progress we have made and continue to make in the fintech industry,” said Lito Villanueva, Founding Chairman of FinTech Alliance.PH, and the Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer of Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC).

“The past three years for the fintech industry have been challenging, but we’ve come out of it stronger, better, and more determined than ever to celebrate our successes and pursue our goals for the digital transformation and betterment of our nation,” Villanueva added.

To register for the INDX3 Summit or become a Fintech Alliance member and enjoy exclusive benefits, visit: https://fintechalliance.ph/navigate-the-digital-economy/

 

About Fintech Alliance.PH

FinTech Alliance.PH, the Philippines’ premier and largest digital and fintech association, is composed of startups and unicorns that account for over 95 percent of digital-initiated transactions volume in the country.

For more information, visit https://www.fintechalliance.ph/.

 

#INDX3 Summit  #FinTechAlliancePH #digital #fintech #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Philippines’ new tourism slogan encourages love for country

The Philippines is ready for a fresh start as the Department of Tourism (DOT) finally unveils the new tourism slogan: “Love The Philippines,” a testament to how this country calls out to anyone who has a thrill for adventure, captivating beauty, and the embrace of a newfound home.

After 11 years of sporting the iconic “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” the new slogan was unveiled at DOT’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at the Manila Hotel. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasizes that this slogan is also a “call to action” towards Filipinos and international citizens alike to discover and explore the Philippines with the numerous things it has to offer.

Despite being a slogan, this change has brought new heights and challenges for the country’s tourism department. While the country has countless destinations lined up for travelers, there are plenty of places left undiscovered yet well-maintained by the locals. The DOT also hopes that this new slogan will bring attention to other places that are not particularly highlighted in past tourism campaigns.

They also wanted to showcase a more Filipino brand– and the “Love The Philippines” slogan encapsulates what it takes to become a country full of love, natural wonders, an enticing history, and our unique cultural footprint.

In the modern era, travelers have begun to change their preferences and the experiences that they seek whenever they go out of their comfort zone. Most people look for more scenic yet calm destinations while others tend to go to the undiscovered sites and take their exploration to new heights. As these preferences evolve, the DOT also adjusts to recent travel trends.

This branding, if effective, will showcase the Philippines’ hidden beauty and the love within its people. Marie Adriano, the brand and strategic planner from the marketing firm Doyle, Dane, and Bernbach (DDB) Philippines, explained that there is a positive association to travelers when it comes to the word love– a longing and caring feeling, one laced with newfound affection.

However, recent controversies surrounding the usage of stock footage in the slogan’s promotional video campaign drew flak from the netizens. The video contained footage shot from various countries such as Brazil, Indonesia, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates, as per the Agence France-Presse’s fact-checking arm.

The DOT’s creative arm, DBB, has spoken up about the stock footage issue, saying that it is a “standard practice in the industry.” They defended the usage, for the video’s intention is to be a “mood video” to attract and excite internal stakeholders for their tourism campaign. The whole campaign, including the slogan, utilized a ₱49M fund in total. Due to this controversy, the contract between DBB and DOT has been terminated, seeking accountability for the issue.

These developments have drawn mixed reactions from netizens, especially regarding the credibility of the DOT, the authenticity of the slogan, and its effects on the dwindling tourism in the country. This slogan is also created to honor the Filipinos, for their hospitality and love have bound the Philippines and continuously embraced citizens from all over the world with their big hearts. It is only right that its creation should be as genuine as its intention.

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo courtesy of PNA

#DOT #newlogo #lovethePhilippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Beko, Magic Appliance Expo Caravan Offers Discounts and Freebies

One of the ways that the leading global appliance brand Beko is continuously growing its network across the Philippines is by partnering with appliance stores nationwide.

North-based appliance store chain Magic Appliance is one of the largest appliance and furniture store chains in Northern Luzon. Magic Appliance has 25 branches: 19 stores in Pangasinan (including 1-TechnoHUB concept store), 1 store in La Union, 3 stores in Ilocos Sur, 1 store in Zambales, and 1 store in Nueva Ecija.

For June and July, Beko and Magic Appliance are holding the Beko-Magic Appliance Expo Caravan in 17 stores in Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and La Union.

Consumers can expect deals, freebies, and payday specials with discounts of up to 30% on Beko’s appliances so they can live like a pro with the European brand’s appliance technologies that make life so much easier.

The Expo Caravan Promo will be from June 16-July 31, 2023.

Escape the heat and get the BSEOG 090 / BSEOG 091 1.0 HP Split Type Air Conditioner for Php 29,091 from Php 36,990 during the promo period. With this, you can now enjoy a cooler and more comfortable home.

Beko x Magic Appliance Expo

The RDNT272I50VZK 9.5 cu.ft 2-Door Refrigerator is at Php 22,132 from Php 26,990. This fridge freezer has Beko’s HarvestFresh’s 3-color technology, which mimics the 24-hour sun cycle inside the crisper, preserving vitamins for longer so you can enjoy nutritious meals and a healthier lifestyle.

Cook delicious and nutritious food for your family with the FSGT62110GB, a 60 cm Freestanding Gas Cooker, with 4 high-efficiency gas burners and a Halogen Illumination gas oven. It’s Php 24,391 from Php 27,990.

A built-in hob is a kitchen essential that you can use for heating and preparing food. The HII72505TBO 73 cm built-in hob with two (2) cooking zones and 9 cooking levels will be sold for Php 11,691 from Php 12,990.

Make sure your family has clean and well-laundered clothes with the WTLI080SP Fully Automatic Top-Loading Washing Machine with 8 kg laundry capacity with 10 wash programs and Air Dry technology. It is available during the promo period for Php 12,541 from Php 14,490.

Beko’s consumers in North Luzon will be enjoying a special payday promo as Beko is extending amazing discount offers on June 30 – July 2, July 14 – 16, and July 28-31, 2023, aiming for Filipino consumers experience a European lifestyle with its appliances.

The BDC6C55X, a 60cm Freestanding Cooker with 4 vitroceramic hobs and a multi-functional oven, is at Php 46,791 from Php 51,990. Have a wonderful cooking experience as this has the SteamShine technology for its steam cleaning feature. For every purchase, you also get a free FRL 2942 Air Fryer worth Php 3,690.00.

Make a healthy lifestyle easier for you with the GNO563E50HFKPH! This is a 19.8 cu.ft. Side by Side Refrigerator with Multi-airflow Cooling System. Thanks to its Harvest Fresh Technology and ProSmart Inverter Compressor, you won’t have to worry about the storage of your food as these features allow your food to stay fresh for longer periods.

It is at Php 46,411 from Php 55,990 and comes with a free MOC20100B Freestanding Microwave worth Php 3,990. What a wonderful treat, right?

Heavy laundry load? Worry no more because the WTLD120D Fully Automatic Top-Loading Washing Machine has a washing capacity of 12 kg of clothes. This is priced at Php 21,991 from Php 25,990 and comes with a free TBN30848X Table Blender worth Php 3,490.00

You can shop for these Beko appliances at participating Magic Appliance stores in Bantay, Bayambang, Bolinao, Laoag Aguilar, Malasiqui, Mangaldan, Nepo Mall Dagupan, Pozorrubio, San Carlos, San Jose Alaminos, Tayug, Urdaneta, Zamora Mangatarem, San Fernando in La Union, Candon, Narvacan, and Taguidin in Ilocos Sur. For more information, go to https://www.magicappliance.com.ph/#about-us.

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, go to http://beko.ph or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bekoph and their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/bekoph/.

 

#BekoPhilippines #MagicAppliance #caravan #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Home Credit Philippines snags Gold Stevie® for Diversity and Inclusion

As the company continues to live up to the standards and promote the DEI principles in the workplace and beyond, leading consumer finance company Home Credit Philippines bagged yet again another Gold Stevie® in the tenth annual Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for the Innovative Achievement for Diversity and Inclusion category.

The company was recognized during a virtual awarding ceremony held last June 27, where all awardees across the Asia-Pacific region commemorated the achievements and innovations of these companies and how they contributed to their respective industries.

“Every day, we celebrate our employees’ diversity in gender, nationality, culture, age, and background. Beyond this, we foster a home where everyone can share their unique perspectives, respect each other’s needs, and reach their full potential without barriers,” said Alpha Omega Aquino, Home Credit Philippines’ Chief People Officer.

She added, “This Gold Stevie® award is an attestation of our commitment to championing and further promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. And here at Home Credit, we’re proud to say that there are no small roles, everyone is important.”

DEI in the workplace and beyond

Backed by its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG), Home Credit continues to foster diversity and inclusion by creating programs that aim to have meaningful engagement among all its employees.

In April 2022, the company forged partnerships with the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment (PBCWE) and the Philippine LGBT Chamber of Commerce (PLCC) to further cement its commitment to achieving gender equality and inclusion in the workplace. The said organizations have guided Home Credit in creating policies, guidelines, and projects that helped the company efficiently promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Pride starts at Home

During this Pride Month, Home Credit held a series of activities to strengthen further its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. These activities were conducted in partnership with its recently formed Pride Club composed of LGBTQ employees and allies.

Learn more about the latest updates of Home Credit by visiting its official website www.homecredit.ph. Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

 

#HomeCreditPhilippines #GoldStevie #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Liza Soberano graces the latest cover of Grazia Magazine Singapore

In the cover story, Liza shared updates on her journey to becoming a global entertainer and the big narrative shift she has made since she signed under Careless Music.

“I feel like I’m getting a second chance at introducing myself as an actress,” says Filipino actress @LizaSoberano. “I’m just allowing myself as an artist to feel, to enjoy the process, to explore, to try things out that I would never have dared to try out when I was building my career in the Philippines.”

One of the Philippines’ most captivating young actors, the June/July 2023 cover star catapulted to fame acting in romantic comedies, but, as GRAZIA finds out, there’s more to this national sweetheart than meets the eye.

Set to make her Hollywood debut in the upcoming horror comedy “Lisa Frankenstein”—directed by Zelda Williams and co-starring Cole Sprouse and Kathryn Newton — Soberano gets candid about making her Hollywood debut, celebrity culture, and speaking her mind in the latest issue.

Editor-in-Chief: Pakkee Tan

Photographer: BJ Pascual

Stylist: Perry Tabora

Hair: Raymond Santiago

Makeup: Robbie Pinera

Producer: Kimi Felices

Set designer: Justine Arcena-Bumanlag

Stylist’s assistant: Kris Deleon

Production assistants: Clark Mancao, Justin Soberano

Set designer’s assistant: Elaine Bobadilla

On-set assistants: Jonel Navarro, JR Nala

Outfit: Giorgio Armani

Featured photo courtesy of Grazia Singapore

#LizaSoberano #GraziaMagazineSingapore #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Cinemalaya 19 Announces Short Film Finalists

The Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. reveal the 10 competing films that will vie for the Best Short Film in this year’s Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.

From 192 submissions, the 10 finalists are: Tong Adlaw Nga Nag-snow Sa Pinas by Joshua Caesar Medroso; HM HM MHM by Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan; Golden Bells by Kurt Soberano; Hinakdal by Arvin Belarmino; Kokuryo: The Untold Story of Bb. Undas 2019 by Diokko Manuel Dionisio; Ang Kining Binalaybay kag Ambahanon ko para sa imo by Kent John Desamparado; Maudi Nga Arapaap (Last Dream) by Daniel James Magayon; Makoko Sa Baybay by Mike Cabarles; Sibuyas Ni Perfecto (Perfecto’s Onion) by Januar Yap; and Sota by Mae Tanagon.

The competing short films tackle a myriad of human stories, including zombie tale, family adventure, coming-of-age chronicles, LGBT narratives, and a documentary on horse caretakers, showcasing different techniques and approaches.

The 10 competing short films will be screened during the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, slated on August 4 to 13, 2023, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) located inside the CCP Complex in Pasay City.

The best short feature film will be awarded a cash prize amounting to Php150,000 and a Balanghai trophy during the Cinemalaya Awards Night on August 13.

Now in its 19th year, the Cinemalaya is an all-digital film competition that aims to discover, encourage, and support the cinematic works of Filipino filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.

 

#Cinemalaya #digitalfilmcompetition #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Seek the captivating spots of Bohol Island: The country’s first Global Geopark

Bohol Island is just one of the wonders of the Philippines, and as it is being more recognized in the worldwide scene, it is surely a sign to book your tickets with your loved ones now.

Bohol Island is making waves as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) unveiled it as the Philippines’ first Global Geopark, a real breathtaking gem in our archipelago. Bohol’s lush greenery has been cultivated by “periods of tectonic turbulence” which has made the island rise above the ocean–a unique geological identity like no other!

Underground Adventure at Hinagdanan Cave

If you’re looking for underground adventures, the Hinagdanan Cave is your next stop! It is best known as the mystical underground world deep within an enchanting cavern. Moving forward, onlookers will spot stalactites hanging from the ceiling like shimmering chandeliers, while an emerald-green lagoon glistens below, inviting you for a refreshing dip. The underground cave is home to an emerald-green lagoon that glistens in the dim light within the cavern, giving it a whimsical and mysterious vibe. It’s a surreal experience that will awaken the explorer within you!

Hinagdanan Cave. Photo credits to A Guide to the Philippines

Being one of the country’s most coveted tourist spots, Bohol Island is also home to various places, making it a haven for travelers. With its jaw-dropping sights and fascinating wildlife, it will surely make anyone feel both adventure and home at the same time.

World-famous Chocolate Hills

Starting with the whirlwind of attractions is the world-famous Chocolate Hills. Blessed with a landscape dotted with hundreds of lush, cone-shaped hills as far as the eye can see– it is no wonder that tourists from all races come to see this beauty. During the dry season, these wonders turn a mesmerizing shade of brown, a phenomenon that’s widely viewed and anticipated across nations.

Loboc River cruise

The Loboc River Cruise is also a delightful feast for the senses. This is Bohol’s floating restaurant, gliding along the gentle currents of the river, surrounded by lush greenery and singing birds. They also serve a mouthwatering buffet of local delicacies, all while traditional musicians serenade you with melodies. Watch out, as various species of birds adorn the cruise’s route, perfect for sightseeing and bird watchers. Throughout the journey, talented performers showcase traditional dances, showcasing the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage– giving travelers a slice of Filipino hospitality and rich culture. It’s a symphony of flavors, sights, and sounds that will leave you wanting more!

Tarsiers, the tiny wonders

A trip to Bohol is not complete without seeing the tiny wonders that are tarsiers! These tiny primates, with their big, round eyes and delicate fingers, are native to Bohol Island. The Tarsier Conservation Area houses these adorable creatures and is open to visitors observing them in their natural habitat. Of course, it is important to follow the protocols such as staying quiet and keeping the tourists’ cameras at a reasonable distance.

Photo credits to Bohol Philippines

Unique adventure at Panglao Island

Lastly, Panglao Island beckons with its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This vibrant underwater world is teeming with colorful coral reefs, playful dolphins, and exotic marine life. Panglao Island is frequently visited by snorkelers and scuba divers, eager to explore the vast underwater within. Moreover, the island’s beach bars and restaurants will make people surely appreciate what the real beachfront scene is like, armed with its acoustic live bands, exotic seafood and delicacies, and their live parties. Panglao Island promises a unique adventure you’ll never forget!

Panglao Island. Photo credits to Bohol Beach Club

Bohol Island is just one of the wonders of the Philippines, and as it is being more recognized in the worldwide scene, it is surely a sign to book your tickets with your loved ones. Bohol is waiting for you, eager to share its geological wonders and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this adventure!

 

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Featured photo courtesy of Inquirer

 

#Bohol #island #FirstGlobalGeopark #Philippines #UNESCO #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Watsons’ holds First Sustainability Exhibit together with drybrush Gallery showcasing artworks made from Reused materials

Sustainability has always been ingrained in Watsons’ DNA. The leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer is always at the forefront of helping educate and encourage customers do their part in saving the planet and encouraging them to make it a better place to live in for future generations.

Watsons has also integrated sustainability into its corporate strategy with initiatives like Sustainable Choices and encouraging volunteerism among its employees, pushing boundaries to show its customers that it can walk the talk.

As part of its sustainability initiatives and to celebrate Filipino artistry and talent, Watsons, in collaboration with drybrush Gallery, launches “Reuse with Watsons: A Sustainability Art Exhibit” held at drybrush Gallery in SM MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

Watsons hopes the art exhibit will be an avenue to raise public awareness about the importance of reusing by showcasing art pieces created from discarded materials such as plastic bottles/containers, plastic wrappers and containers, paper/carton boxes/tissue, blister packs, metals, sponges, foam, brushes, and cosmetics) collected from Watsons’ Recycle for Rewards Campaign/ Products found in Watsons Stores.

drybrush Gallery Founder Jojo Liao with Watsons Philippines Executives(L-R) Jowee Liao, Josie Arriola, Viki Encarnacion, Belle Pasayco, Sharon Decapia, Marlon Baguyot and Patrick Yu.

The exhibit also seeks to continuously educate and inspire the public to practice Reusing and the 3RS (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) as these would contribute to the preservation of our planet.

The participating artists were tasked to create art pieces that integrate discarded materials sourced from Watsons Stores and from all the entries, the three outstanding artworks, which best fit with the theme of the exhibit, will be chosen.

The artists that will be featured in the exhibit are Iñigo Acuña, Astrid Anabo, Neptalie unzo, Arnel Borja, Meijan Cabagay, Ape Castillo, Jeff Dahilan, Ronwaldo Dasal, Cesar Dela Torre, Angelo Delola, Daniel Dumaguit, Noli Española, Juno Galang, Esther Garcia, Ann Gatdula, Loise Angelo Go, Edgardo Granada, Anne Labesores, Ronald Limayo, Linggit (Briks Benigno), Ricardo Mallari, Ron Masaga, Luisito “Jon” Paras, Pancho Piano, Isah Rodillo, Roland Rosacay, Ferdinand Sanchez, James Sanorjo Jr., Rinald Sotto, JL Timbreza – Siao, Dominic Urbano and Ariel Villalobos.

Grand Prize Winner Ferdinand Sanchez with his winning piece, Aruga.

The top three artists will be chosen based on Creative Reuse (50%), the extent to which discarded materials are creatively repurposed and transformed into the artwork; Aesthetic Appeal (30%), the visual impact and artistic quality of the artwork, considering elements such as composition, use of color, texture, and overall craftsmanship; and Environmental Message (20%), the artwork’s ability to convey a message of environmental sustainability, raising awareness about the importance of reusing and reducing waste, and inspiring consumers to adopt more eco-friendly practices.

“We are very happy with our collaboration with drybrush Gallery, which helped greatly in making all this possible.  To the participating local artists who have tremendously supported us and have given their whole dedication in creating art pieces using sustainable products from Watsons, we salute your passion and your love for our planet,” said Watsons Sustainability and PR Director Ms. Viki Encarnacion.

To view the Watsons Sustainability Exhibit artworks and learn more about the artists, log on to drybrush Gallery website.

 

#Watsons #drybrushgallery #sustainability #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

SMAC turns over P5.5M in funds raised for the Hapag Movement, thanks customers for support

SMAC (SM Advantage Card), the biggest loyalty program of retail giant SM, has donated P5.5 million to the Hapag Movement gathered over the holidays through vigorous support from its members. The donation to the Globe-led program aims to address involuntary hunger among Filipinos affected by the pandemic and economic challenges.

Under the month-long campaign over the Christmas season, proceeds from every SMAC card sold was donated to the movement and SM Foundation programs.

Additionally, part of SMAC members’ extra points are earned through purchasing select items from SM’s partner establishments– SM Store, SM Beauty, SM Appliance, Kultura, Surplus, Our Home, Baby Company, Crate and Barrel, Levi’s, The Body Shop, Forever21, Ecco, and Miniso – were donated to the Hapag Movement from December 15, 2022, until January 15, 2023, making holiday shopping even more meaningful and impactful. This is very empowering as each SMAC member can participate in doing a Globe of Good!

SMAC’s donation will support supplementary feeding and livelihood initiatives by the Hapag Movement’s implementing partners– the Ayala Foundation, Inc, Caritas Philippines, Tzu Chi Foundation, and World Vision.

 

“We are very grateful to SMAC and the SM Group for their generous support for the Hapag Movement. This donation will have a significant impact on the lives of those who are experiencing involuntary hunger, especially as the movement aims to expand its reach this year to help more of our vulnerable kababayans,” said Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto.

“This program is a true demonstration of the heart and generosity of SMAC members as well as the SM brands and its affiliates who came together and supported this campaign. All SMAC membership cards sold and all purchases made with SMAC converted a donation amount that far exceeded our expectations.  SMAC became a channel through which members were able to bless our fellowmen who are experiencing involuntary hunger with the Hapag Movement,” said Jay Beltran, SMAC Head of Sales and Marketing.

“Without the help of our members, we would not have been able to raise as much as PHP5.5 million in just one month. We are immensely grateful to our customers for choosing to shop for a cause by using SMAC. Through your support, vulnerable families will get proper meals and livelihood training,” Beltran said.

Globe’s Hapag Movement leverages on technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.

An estimated 2.7 million Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger in the first quarter of 2023, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey.

Those who would like to support the Hapag Movement may donate via GCash and credit cards or send their unused Globe Rewards points to the cause via the GlobeOne app.

To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

#Globe #HapagMovement #SMAC #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph