Celebrate Power Mac Center’s 29 Years with Exciting Deals

Power Mac Center (PMC) marks its 29th anniversary this August and it’s celebrating with a series of musical spectacles and a one-day-only anniversary sale.

Reaching 29 years in any industry is no small feat. Apart from being the trusted local partner for all things Apple, Power Mac Center has opened the biggest Apple Premium Partner (APP) store in the country and reached over 100 locations this year.

“Celebrating our anniversaries is a way to remember our humble beginnings and look forward to all the milestones we can still achieve with our customers, employees, and partners. We recognize the increasing impact of our products, training, and services in this digital-driven world, and we remain committed to further expanding and improving our services to all our customers,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management.

Sync Sessions on Tour

To kick off the anniversary celebration, Power Mac Center will hold its much-awaited Sync Sessions on August 26, 2023, Saturday, at Eastwood Mall. Sync Sessions is an audio-digital crossover experience featuring OPM icons and breakthrough artists.

The event will take place on five consecutive Saturdays – August 26, September 2, 9, 16, and 23, in different locations. Join the festivities packed with fun games and activities, and hear your favorite OPM artists perform live using Apple devices as instruments. For more updates on the Sync Sessions lineup and locations, stay tuned to PMC’s official social media channels.

Anniversary deals you can’t miss! 

As part of its annual tradition, Power Mac Center goes full force in its anniversary sale to help customers score their favorite Apple products and accessories, as well as training courses and services, at a special deal. Watch out for the announcement of PMC’s exciting one-day offers this August 26 to be posted on its official social media channels.

Established in 1994, Power Mac Center has built today’s largest network of Apple-authorized retail stores, repair and service centers, and education resellers, with over 100 Power Mac Center and The Loop branches all over the Philippines. To be updated on news and promotions, follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, Viber, and YouTube. 

Gatorade, Part of an Athletes’ Winning Legacy

Dwight Ramos has powered through rigorous training sessions and tune-up games against select teams from Europe, as well as the Ukraine U-21 team in Estonia and Lithuania.

This Gilas Pilipinas key player refuses to be slowed down by injury — and a big part of injury prevention is proper exercise and hydration. By fueling up and replenishing electrolytes lost during games and practice, Ramos doesn’t miss out on any session in between flights from Manila to China for tune-up games.

Now in the final stages of Gilas’ prep behind closed doors, Ramos can go the extra mile with Gatorade, the official electrolyte partner of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

Staying hydrated is the key to longevity - proven quite a number of times by another key player for Gilas and resident import of Barangay Ginebra - Justin Brownlee - who had to learn this lesson the hard way.

Amidst uncomfortable playing conditions in the Cambodia Southeast Asian Games earlier this year, Brownlee battled with cramps and had to miss a crucial part of the match due to fluid loss.

“His legs were cramping up due to the heat and exhaustion,” said Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes when the Philippines lost 68-79 to host team Cambodia in a match played under 41-degree weather.

However, the six-time PBA champion bounced back stronger and more determined than ever to lead Gilas in their redemption tour, bringing the SEA Games gold medal within reach.

After all, in every 40-minute, high-stakes game, players need to give their all while battling fatigue and exhaustion. That’s why Gatorade, the official electrolyte drink of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, plays a valuable role in the biggest basketball stage.

Players need to keep rehydrating with the necessary fluids and replacing lost electrolytes to keep them playing longer and the Gatorade formula has been proven to do just that by scientists, nutritionists, and world-class athletes for more than 50 years.

With qualifying teams from all over the world coming to the Philippines, the tournament can expect the world’s number 1 sports drink to keep world-class players fueled up for every match.

To date, other countries have completed their lineup, while the Gilas Pilipinas coaching staff will finalize the final national roster after a round of friendly games with other participating countries.

Among those expected to play are Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic (Slovenia), Denver Nuggets’ Jamal Murray (Canada), Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Canada), Utah Jazz's Lauri Markkanen (Finland), Chicago Bulls' Nikola Vucevic (Montenegro) and Gatorade’s own ambassador from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Karl Anthony Towns (Dominican Republic).

Representing the Philippines, Utah Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson will don the Gilas blue jersey, rallying the country’s best athletes toward victory.

With these basketball superstars on the stage, Gatorade is sure to make history one bottle and one game at a time. 

Jollibee launches its delightfully newstalgic Peach Crumble Sundae

If you’re a fan of Jollibee’s sundaes and Peach Mango Pie, then you’ll definitely love their newest dessert offering—the Peach Crumble Sundae! Available for a limited time only in Luzon stores, it’s a creamy, peach caramel delight that you won’t want to miss.

This new sundae combines classic Jollibee favorites—sweet peach fruit chunks from the well-loved Peach Mango Pie and the brand’s signature creamy vanilla soft serve—and elevates these with butter cookie crumbles and rich caramel sauce to create a newstalgic delight! “Newstalgia” is a coined term to describe one’s desire for something comfortingly familiar yet exciting, and has become one of 2023’s top trends for desserts.

“As we created the Peach Crumble Sundae, we made sure that it offers both the comfort we seek from familiar favorites as well as the thrill of trying new flavors and textures,” said Luis Berba, Marketing Director for Jollibee Complementaries. “This is why we’re very excited for everyone to try this newstalgic delight!”

The Peach Crumble Sundae will be available for PHP 59.00 in all Jollibee stores around Luzon for a limited time only. Make sure to drop by your nearest Jollibee branch and treat yourself to this delightfully newstalgic dessert via dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, or delivery!

For more information and updates on Jollibee’s products, like Jollibee on Facebook, subscribe to Jollibee Philippines on YouTube, and follow @jollibee on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. 

Jollibee is giving away FREE tickets to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Opening Game!

The world’s most highly anticipated basketball tournament is making its way to Philippine shores and Jollibee is giving away FREE tickets to the Opening Game!

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 is the 19th tournament of the international basketball event for men’s national basketball teams. The opening game will be held at the Philippine Arena on August 25, 2023, with the Philippine team carrying the country’s flag high. As the country’s most adored fast-food chain, Jollibee joins the entire nation in rallying behind the home team and uplifting the Filipino spirit.

“As a brand that is proudly Pinoy, we are just as excited as everyone else to have the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 open in our country and cheer on the Philippine team,” said Pam Reyes, AVP for Handhelds. “As this opening event will definitely go down in basketball history, we want to give as many of our fellow basketball enthusiasts as possible the opportunity to catch the exciting, high-stakes action live.”

From August 15 to 24, 2023, basketball fans can get their free tickets by simply ordering through the Jollibee app:

•   In the Jollibee app, click on the “Promos” tab, followed by the “FREE FIBA Opening Game Ticket” App Coupon.

•   Place an order with a minimum single-receipt purchase amount of Php 1,500.00 to get one FREE FIBA Opening Game Ticket. The coupon will be applied upon checkout.

•   An email confirmation will be sent with instructions on how to claim the free ticket, as well as a physical Jollibee receipt attached to your delivery order.

•   Redeem your tickets on or before August 24 at the nearest participating TicketNet booth by presenting your valid physical Jollibee receipt and email confirmation. See the TicketNet outlets here: https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/ticketoutlets/home 

Canon Introduces New Lineup of Multi-function Devices that Cater to Varied Business Needs

Canon announced the latest additions to the extensive lineup of A3 and A4 color and monochrome laser multi-function devices (MFD) – the imageRUNNER ADVANCE (iR-ADV) DX C3900i series, iR-ADV DX 8900i series, iR-ADV DX 4900i series, iR-ADV DX C359i, iR-ADV DX 619i, imageRUNNER (iR) 2900i series and iR C3326i. Building upon Canon’s current imageRUNNER ADVANCE and imageRUNNER offerings, the new MFDs are ideal for today’s diverse work environments, providing businesses with excellent functionality from productive workflows to preventative security measures. 

“Canon continues to push forward innovative devices for an increasingly evolving work environment. The latest range of imageRUNNER ADVANCE and imageRUNNER devices integrate technologies that allow businesses to work more efficiently, safely, and securely,” said Mr. Kenichiro Kitamura, Director of Office Imaging Products (OIP). “With Canon’s business solutions, we help simplify business complexities while enabling business agility and digital transformation.”

Safeguarding Business Data against External Threats

The iR-ADV and iR MFDs provide a range of preventative security measures that is increasingly important in the current digital workplace. Verify System at Startup and McAfee Embedded Control verifies the integrity of the system and checks for any tampering from startup to operation, preventing attacks from malware or unauthorized modifications.

Depending on the type of abnormality detected during startup, the device can automatically reboot to recover, minimizing downtime. Notably, the iR-ADV MFDs also support Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 to safely encrypt critical data stored on the MFDs, further protecting it against malware. 

Boosting Workplace Productivity

Designed for optimal ease of use, the MFDs share similar features on the user interface (UI) across iR-ADV and iR devices, providing a consistent experience. The smart Timeline feature displays the history of the last 10 settings used, helping users save time spent on repetitive operations. The MFDs also provide users with the ability to customize preferences, offering personalization of the initial display screen, display language, and frequently used functions. Users can streamline repetitive operations, significantly improving productivity.

Managing Prints Usage

With businesses shifting to cloud-based solutions, the new MFDs lineup works seamlessly with Canon’s proprietary uniFLOW Online, a cloud-based print management solution that helps businesses manage their print environments. uniFLOW Online provides businesses with central control by tracking print, scan, and copy usage. Administrators can review the information within the uniFLOW Online Dashboard and identify potential areas for cost reduction. The solution also helps strengthen security by preventing unauthorized access with device authentication. 

The MFDs are now available for ordering through authorized Canon distributors and dealers.

The iR-ADV & iR portfolio includes:

• iR-ADV DX C3935i/C3930i/C3926i/C3922i 
• iR-ADV DX 4945i/4935i/4925i
• iR-ADV DX C359i1
• iR-ADV DX 619i1
• iR C3326i 
• iR2945i/2935i/2930i/2925i  

5 Eco-friendly Kitchen Products You Should Invest In

It’s often said that nature made a healthier comeback during the pandemic, but it only really showed how much work we still need to do to enjoy a healthier environment in the decades to come. While reducing our impact on the planet seems daunting, an ideal place to start eco-friendly practices in your home is in your kitchen, which is regarded as a heavy-use area.

Living a friendlier life towards the environment can start with small things like reducing your waste and changing out a few single-use disposable products you use to more sustainable and eco-friendly ones. To get started, here are a few kitchen essentials that could double as sustainable options:

Reusable kitchen towels

Paper towels in the kitchen can be convenient, but they can easily build up into a big pile of trash. Reusable kitchen towels are just as effective in cleaning up spills and kitchen mishaps without creating nearly as much waste as disposable towels. Reusable paper towels can be made of bamboo and cotton, cellulose sponge, or microfiber, often requiring fewer raw materials. 

Beeswax food wraps 

If you’re the type to prepare meals to-go or store leftovers, you can trade single-use plastic cling film or aluminum wrap for beeswax food wraps. These self-adhesive and reusable pieces of fabric, made of organic cotton coated with beeswax, jojoba oil, and resin, can be used to wrap sandwiches, cover bowls, or simply wrap half-cut ingredients. With regular use and proper care, these food wraps can last for at least a year. 

Non-disposal coffee makers

Switching to eco-friendlier coffee brewing methods, such as French press, stovetop espresso maker, or AeroPress, can help reduce waste as they don’t need filters. If you still prefer pour-over, you can also switch out your single-use disposable filters to reusable cloth filters. Leftover coffee grinds can then be added to plants instead of being thrown out since they double as good fertilizer.

Compost bins

A great way to round out a kitchen’s sustainability is to be able to turn your leftover food waste into enriching food for your plants in the form of compost. If you find the idea of composting too intimidating, the bokashi bin is a beginner-friendly step. It is ideal for compact spaces, works with more food wastes, including fats, meat, bones, and dairy, and gives off less odor, unlike its traditional counterparts. 

LPG kitchen fuel

The fuel you choose to use for cooking may not seem like an important sustainability choice but every little step to reducing waste and energy consumption can make a difference. LPG is regarded as a clean cooking fuel as it emits less carbon dioxide and is considered a more sustainable fuel substitute than kerosene, charcoal, or fuelwood. 

LPG brands like Solane LPG have also invested in ways to make their products more sustainable, such as creating the Bioseal, the first-of-its-kind biodegradable LPG seal in the country. Unique to authentic Solane LPG products, the bioseal only takes five to 10 years to decompose compared to the 500 to 1,000 years common LPG plastic seals take. Only trusted LPG products like Solane LPG also produce a blue flame, which indicates that gas is being burned efficiently and without waste.

While these changes may seem small, when done together, they can impact how much you reduce waste or energy consumption. Sustainable practices do not have to come in the form of sweeping changes -- realistic ways to make your kitchen eco-friendly can go a long way in your journey of being kinder to the earth. 

To order verified Solane LPG, customers may call the Hatid Bahay Hotline (+632 8887-5555), or send a message to 0918-887-5555 (Smart) / 0917 8977555 (Globe). Customers may also place their order through the Solane Web Ordering platform (order.solane.com.ph), the Solane Facebook page (http://m.me/solane.ph), or place their orders through the Solane LPG app, available on the App Store or Google Play. 

Review of Villar Children's Farm in BFRV, Las Pinas

We live close to Villar Farm which is located inside BFRV, Las Pinas which is why we decided to visit this place last Mother's Day and then yesterday. Thankfully, things have improved since our first visit. 

When we first went, there was a fee for everything. Parking, feeding the cows, feeding the horses, playing in the playground, zipline, and just about anything. Nothing was free. 

This felt like a bummer because it felt like it was just about the money. This is also why even though it's really near my place, we didn't go back for months. 

Yesterday, we decided to give it another shot because our little one has been obsessing over horses, birds, and cows. Thankfully, Villar Children's Farm had all these animals and this time, feeding them was free. You can simply make a donation. 

They also have a bird cage, a rabbit cage, and a stall for goats now. Khali enjoyed feeding the cows so much, he tried going over the railing. Good thing it was set high so it was safe. 

The birds were all very active and Khali enjoyed interacting with them though I'm sure some of the birds may be deaf now because he kept yelling "BIRDS! BIRDS!" 

Khali also enjoyed feeding the goats and calling the rabbits. Just seeing the smile on his face made going here worth it. 

They also have a playground (Php100 for an hour) where children can play. It has a slide, seesaw, swing, trampoline, and an open space for kids to run around. 

After playing, we had pizza which was pretty cheap because we got it for their afternoon promo. Cheese and pepperoni were only Php99 each as long as you ordered before 5pm. We ordered at 4:53pm. Whew. 

The pesto pasta on the other hand was a little too expensive but thankfully, Khali ate all of it. 

B ordered a strawberry drink which was also a little high on the price point but he enjoyed it so it's all good. 

And here is my husband and I. 

Will we be back? For Php100 per hour on the playground and the free feeding of the animals, let's make this a regular thing so that Khali has outdoor playtime and is exposed to a few animals aside from cats and dogs. 

I'm glad that the Villar Children's Farm is now more friendly regarding price points and that they are keeping the animals healthy and clean. 

PS. They also have a pet playground where your pets can run free for an hour. It's also Php100 and located right across the Villar Children's Farm. 

PPS. Make sure to get your parking ticket validated at the restaurant after making a purchase or you will have to pay Php30. 

Sharp PH Unleashed True Experience with its newly launched Aquos XLED TV

 Sharp Philippines has officially launched its new Aquos XLED TV, unleashing true experience with its amazing features, and providing a new standard for entertainment experience.

Sharp has leveled up its game again by providing game-changer entertainment for the Philippine market with its launch of the Sharp Aquos XLED TV. From its standard DK1X Series providing unbeatable experience, followed by its gaming TV, DL1X Series bringing real experience, Sharp has once again leveraged its technology producing the all-new XLED TV that offers True to Life Experience. 

Offering 65” (4T-C65FV1X) and 75” (4T-C75FV1X) models, this new product sets a new standard as it combines the best part of LCD and OLED TVs. This model is set to define a new generation flagship TV with artistic design, as well as excellent innovations, bringing users a “True to Life” viewing experience and reaching new heights. The Aquos XLED 4K TV has proven to be the best TV Sharp has produced in the 4K segment over the years as it delivers exceptional picture and audio quality with its unique True Brightness, True Color, and Immersive Sound. Also, this product has won the 2023 IF Design Award.

“At Sharp, we are committed to delivering high-quality, value-added products, and excellent after-sales service to Filipino families. We believe that every home deserves the best in entertainment, and our Aquos XLED TV represents this vision.”, said Mr. Kazuo Kito, President and General Manager of Sharp Philippines.

True Brightness 

The SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV features Xtreme mini-LED technology, presenting the highest dimming zone in its class for actual brightness. With over 2,000 backlight dimming zones, it offers unrivaled dynamic color contrast that sets it apart from other brands in the market. Moreover, the dramatically increased 88x* backlight LEDs bring 6x* peak brightness compared to conventional displays, creating a dazzling display. 

True Colour 

Designed with Deep Chroma Quantum Dot technology, the SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV displays the highest color coverage in the history of the AQUOS TVs, with over 20% more color gamut coverage area compared to conventional displays. This allows the 2023 AQUOS XLED 4K TV to deliver realistic object colors and a true-to-life visual experience. 

Immersive Sound 

To provide an unparalleled audio experience, the cutting-edge Sharp Aquos XLED boasts Dolby Atmos technology. This innovative feature is enhanced by the inclusion of an advanced ARSS+ surround speaker system, featuring a total of 11 speakers perfectly positioned to create a 3D sound field and clear. These speakers excel in delivering exceptional sound quality across all frequencies including high, mid, and low ranges. With the Aquos XLED, be prepared to be fully immersed in a truly captivating audio performance.

Google TV

In addition to elevating the visual and audio experience, the SHARP AQUOS XLED 4K TV is seamlessly integrated with Google TV. Through this, users can say goodbye to the hassle of switching between multiple apps, and effortlessly explore a vast library of over 400,000* movies, TV episodes, and live TV channels, conveniently organized according to the user’s preferred genres and interests.  

Latest Dolby Technology

The new model has also the Dolby Vision IQ, which intelligently optimizes your TV for a perfect picture in your room at every moment.  Dolby Atmos immerses you in your favorite entertainment with sound that moves all around you with breathtaking realism.

Unleash True Experience Event

Along with Sharp’s Aquos XLED Launching Event is its Unleash True Experience event, which was held last August 1 – 6, 2023 at Festival Mall, Alabang. Sharp Tekken Tournament and Cosplay Fest were held in the exhibit area which showcased multiple talents from the gaming community and to cosplayers all over the South and nearby cities. All the events portrayed Sharp’s Japan Technology, showing Sharp’s commitment to providing Japanese quality products for every Filipino household.

For more updates and information regarding this new product, please visit Sharp's Official Website at https://ph.sharp/ and Sharp's Facebook Official Page at https://www.facebook.com/SharpPhilippines. You may also visit the leading appliance stores near you to check our introductory price. 

F1 Hotel Manila teams up with Enderun Extension to introduce an exciting, new a la carte menu

F All-Day Dining unveils its newest, flavorful dishes from an exciting culinary partnership between F1 Hotel Manila and Enderun Extension! Enderun Extension serves as Enderun College's resource for continuing education, providing an extensive array of courses and programs to individuals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in various fields beyond the traditional academic setting. This collaboration is a meeting of great culinary institutions where expertise, passion, and creativity combine to create a melody of flavors that represents the essence of exceptional cuisine.

Prepare your taste buds for the artistry of flavors as the new menu, inspired by the expertise of the two acclaimed institutions, takes flight!

The Mexican Taco Salad proves to be an excellent starter that excites the palate for the forthcoming dining experience. This TexMex salad comprises lettuce and tomatoes, expertly tossed in a delightful homemade red wine vinaigrette dressing, all served atop a crispy tortilla bowl. The dish is accompanied by a generous serving of nacho chips, freshly made guacamole, and flavorful tomato salsa. For non-vegetarian diners, a savory option with chili con carne is also available to enhance their culinary journey.

F All-Day Dining is also known for its diverse main courses catering to unexpected culinary cravings. Among these offerings, the Spaghetti Vongole is a delightful choice for those seeking a lighter option. In addition, the beloved Neapolitan dish boasts Manila clams stewed in a lovely white wine sauce, accompanied by diced chorizo, cherry tomatoes, and parsley. It is served on a bed of fresh spaghetti and beautifully garnished with grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick.

Certainly, meat lovers will delight in the Churrasco Ribeye Steak, a cherished favorite from Argentinian steakhouses. This exquisite dish features a beautifully marbled USDA ribeye steak, expertly charbroiled to accentuate the natural beefy essence of the cut and complemented by a vibrant chimichurri sauce. Served alongside grilled vegetables and thick-cut polenta fries, it promises to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

No meal is complete without a delectable dessert, and for that perfect meal finisher, indulge in an all-time favorite Tiramisu. This traditional Italian dessert boasts layers of soft biscuit cuillère and velvety mascarpone cheese, lovingly soaked in luscious and delicate coffee syrup. It's a true delight for the taste buds!

Embark on a gastronomic adventure as you indulge yourself in F All-Day Dining’sculinary delicacies created to celebrate both local and international comfort food loved by all. Drawing from the expertise of F1 Hotel Manila and Enderun Extension, each dish on the menu is meticulously crafted to present timeless flavors that delight the senses and provide a soul-soothing experience. 

Indulge your taste buds in an exhilarating global culinary adventure. For inquiries and table reservations, please call 8928-9888 or visit our website at www.f1hotelmanila.com. 

Introducing White Dove with DreamScentz™: The Gentle Baby Care Line for Blissful Sleep

Personal Collection (PC), a leading direct-selling company in the country, is thrilled to introduce White Dove with DreamScentz™, a delightful collection of mild baby products designed to enhance your baby's sleep experience and contribute to the overall quality of life for both parents and their little ones.

Unlocking the Power of Sleep for Optimal Development

Sleep is a vital component of a child's growth and development. Scientific research indicates that babies require 16-18 hours of sleep daily to support crucial brain development processes such as tissue repair, growth hormone release, and learning consolidation. A peaceful slumber not only reduces fussiness and crankiness but also enhances alertness and receptiveness to learning when awake.

However, White Dove understands the challenges parents face when it comes to ensuring their babies sleep through the night. Despite trying lullabies, gentle rocking, and creating a tranquil environment, exhausted and frustrated parents often long for their little ones to experience better and more prolonged sleep, leading to much-needed rest for themselves.

The Magic of DreamScentz™

Personal Collection Direct Selling, Inc. has combined cutting-edge neuroscience with innovative product development in its exceptional baby care line. Enriched with the patented DreamScentz™ technology, the White Dove Baby Care products not only provide nourishment for your baby's delicate skin but also offer a scientifically proven method to improve the quality of their sleep.

White Dove is formulated to be hypoallergenic, mild, and dermatologically tested for babies with sensitive and normal skin types. Unlike other baby products on the market, the White Dove line is infused with the soothing Himbing-Bango fragrance of DreamScentz™ to calm and comfort babies, enabling them to enjoy longer and restful sleep.

The Himbing-Bango fragrance of DreamScentz™ is in the following White Dove products: Baby Powder for gentle protection from wetness, Baby Lotion for nourishment and protection of delicate skin, Baby Milk Soap for effectively washing away germs while safeguarding baby's skin, Baby Wash for extra mild cleansing, Baby Shampoo for nourishing fine hair, and Baby Oil for soothing skin and massaging muscles tired from play.

Safe for Baby and the Planet

Eco-conscious parents will be pleased to know that White Dove products come in biodegradable packaging. By choosing White Dove, parents not only opt for a mild baby care line that promotes better sleep and holistic growth and development but also demonstrate their commitment to caring for the planet.

Experience the magic of White Dove with DreamScentz™ by ordering today on Lazada, Shopee, and PC Starter.

4 Easy Tips to Remember to Have an Unstoppable Year

One in five Filipinos has already booked international trips this 2023. Not only that, but 44% of Filipinos are planning to travel two to four times this year. At the same time, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is targeting to have 4.8 million tourist arrivals in the country this year, twice the number of visitors in 2022.

This means a lot of people will be going in and out of the country. We can expect more crowds and busier streets, especially during summer, which is one of the best times to travel because of the holidays and school vacations. If you are one of those looking to have an unstoppable year full of adventures, consider these four easy health tips:

Drink vitamins

Taking vitamins regularly can supplement a healthy diet and lifestyle. This is especially true for people going on vacation, who need to boost their immunity before and during their trip. Immune-boosting supplements like vitamins C and D, zinc, and probiotics can be taken three to five days before a trip and during to help travelers stay in tip-top shape.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is important all year round. Getting enough water prevents infections, brings nutrients to cells, and ensures that organs are working optimally. Aside from these benefits, drinking the recommended amount of water each day is good for cognition, sleep quality, and mood. The amount of water needed per day varies per individual, but for the healthy ones, the recommended amount of water that men should drink daily is 15.5 cups and 11.5 cups for women.

Drinking enough water before travel is recommended because flying can be dehydrating. Airplanes are kept at 10 to 20% humidity, a lower rate compared to normal environments that range from 35 to 65%. Lower humidity leads to dehydration.

Sleep well

Good sleep leads to improved health, mood, immune system, and brain performance. Seven to nine hours of continuous sleep is needed to feel refreshed. Maintain good sleep habits days before a flight to have enough energy for the trip.

Flying to countries with the same time zone or with just an hour or two difference is easy. When traveling across the world, it’s important to adjust to the day-night cycle at the destination. Stay up with the locals when the arrival time is during the day and sleep at night.

Get vaccinated

Vacations expose travelers to diseases, so timely immunizations through vaccinations are crucial. The flu is one of the most common infectious diseases and it is contagious. Each infected person can spread the disease to one or two more people.

Preventive healthcare is still the best protection since people can catch the flu at any time of the year. It’s also important to get a shot annually since flu vaccines change each year to match the current viruses.

Most of all, you wouldn’t want to miss all the fun you have planned for your trip if you get sick. Take it from GlaxoSmithKline Philippines' (GSK) latest flu disease awareness jingle, “But I Got the Flu.” It’s a call to everyone to get your flu shots as soon as possible so you can be unstoppable - whether in having your best summer vacation yet, spending quality time with loved ones, or pursuing other passions in life - don’t let the flu stop you. All you need to do is consult your doctor to ensure that you’re in the right condition to do so.

“People are excited to make up for all the things that they missed at the height of the pandemic. Now that travel restrictions are looser and we can enjoy the best holiday destinations, it’s important to not let our guard down. We recommend that travelers take preventive measures so they can be unstoppable and enjoy their trips worry-free,” says Dr. Kevin Bautista, GSK Medical Affairs Manager.

Culinary Talents Shine at MOST Institute's "Flavors of Asia" Restaurant Simulation

The resounding success of MOST Institute's "Flavors of Asia" restaurant simulation, held on August 4, 2023 at 3:00 pm, has left a lasting impression on the culinary scene. The event, organized by the accomplished culinary arts and baking & pastry students of Batch 212A, showcased their exceptional talents and passion for the culinary arts.

"Flavors of Asia" was a private restaurant simulation, exclusively crafted by the graduating students of MOST Institute. Drawing inspiration from the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Asia, the talented batch of 8 students namely Lorrraine Bullos, Jessica Cabitac,  Kyle Itliong, Marcie Linao, Elaine Reyes, Jeff Victorio, Deomher Villa De Gracia, and Francis Ylanan, delivered an exquisite seven-course fine dining experience that captivated the taste buds of all the guests.

The restaurant simulation not only highlighted the culinary prowess of Batch 212A but also reflected the core values and teachings instilled by MOST Institute. Since its establishment in 2004, MOST Institute has been committed to providing Technical-Vocational Education (TVE) and Training Programs that empower aspiring chefs to do more than just cook. The event truly embodied the spirit of culinary excellence and creativity fostered at the institute.

During the simulation, the students showcased their ability to harmoniously blend flavors, paying homage to various Asian cultures and cuisines. Each dish was a masterpiece, meticulously prepared and artfully presented, leaving the guests in awe of the students' culinary skills.

Among the distinguished guests present were the students' esteemed chef instructors, who provided valuable feedback and encouragement to further propel the young talents toward their culinary dreams. The support and guidance from family members, friends, and colleagues of Batch 212A added a touch of warmth and camaraderie to the event.

As the event concluded, the students expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended and supported "Flavors of Asia." They also extended their heartfelt appreciation to MOST Institute for providing a nurturing environment where they could hone their skills and develop their passion for culinary arts.

MOST Institute would like to extend its sincere thanks to the media, food enthusiasts, and all those who contributed to the event's success. The positive response and encouragement have reinforced the institute's commitment to nurturing exceptional culinary talent within the Philippines.

To relive the moments and catch a glimpse of the culinary brilliance displayed at "Flavors of Asia," follow MOST Institute on Instagram (@most.institute) and Facebook (MOST Institute - Quezon City). Don't forget to check out the #FlavorsOfAsiaBatch212A hashtag to see what attendees and media are saying about this extraordinary gastronomic experience.

Budgeting Hacks: How to Manage Your Kids' Back-to-School Expenses this Season

With the new academic year just around the corner, most parents, especially moms, are gearing up to ensure a smooth back-to-school season for their kids. This entails making sure that tuition fees and miscellaneous expenses are settled in time for the beginning of classes while providing everything they will need, including textbooks, pens, paper, uniforms, and even gadgets, to be equipped with the right tools for their school tasks. 

However, the overall cost of these back-to-school needs can strain your finances, especially when you have a fixed monthly income. This is why it is crucial to manage your expenses properly. As this task can be quite challenging, here are some smart budgeting tips you can apply to avoid overspending in the upcoming school year.  

These tips are provided by Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company.  

Establish a list of school essentials, other important expenses 

Creating a detailed list provides an overview of the essential items your kids will require and the fees you need to pay for the upcoming academic year. This allows you to prioritize what back-to-school needs should be taken care of first while not missing out on anything important.  

Before finalizing your list, do not forget to check your kids’ school supplies from the previous school year. Once you determine which items can be reused this season, you can check them off to avoid unnecessary expenses. 

Determine your budget 

Now that you have a comprehensive list for the back-to-school season, you can start looking over or estimating the costs of everything your kids will need. From there, you can establish a realistic budget based on your financial capabilities. This allows you to better manage your finances and make informed shopping decisions. 

Take advantage of deals, discounts

Sales and discounts can significantly reduce the total cost when you are shopping for supplies. Taking advantage of such offers will allow you to save more money without compromising the quality of the items. At this period, you can also buy in bulk so you will have a stock of school supplies to last the whole academic year, minimizing your kids’ school expenses in the long run. Additionally, this will enable you to stretch your budget further to purchase additional items for your kids or redirect the saved funds to other essential expenses at home. 

The key to your back-to-school budget! 

If you are looking for a convenient and reliable solution for your budget in preparation for the upcoming academic year, Home Credit has you covered, as it offers a back-to-school cash loan promo for its eligible customers until August 31, 2023.  

By visiting the My Home Credit App, you can now easily apply for a cash loan anytime and anywhere. With just one minute of processing time, you can avail a minimum of PHP 3,000 up to PHP 150,000 loan amount to cover your kids’ expenses this season—be it tuition fees, school supplies, and more. You can also enjoy flexible payment options that range from 12 to 60 months and get up to five months of free installments if you are an eligible customer who pays on time. 

You are qualified to get this promo if your account is active and in good credit standing during the offer period. You can also enjoy Home Credit's ongoing promotions even after participating in the back-to-school cash loan promo. 

Grab this amazing offer while it lasts! Take advantage of Home Credit’s promo to ensure your kids are well-equipped to face the new school year without breaking the bank.  

Lenovo Among First Group of Companies to Achieve Net-Zero Targets

In a world where corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability are becoming increasingly critical, technology giant Lenovo has emerged as a trailblazer, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to creating a better and more sustainable planet. Today, the company published its 17th annual Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, showcasing its remarkable progress in various areas, from renewable energy adoption to empowering global communities and bridging the digital divide.

“As a global company, we have seen the impact of climate change on our stakeholders and feel the urgency to combat it together,” said Yuanqing Yang, Lenovo’s CEO and Chairman. “In the last fiscal year, we were proud to affirm our commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 with net-zero targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and their first-of-its-kind Net-Zero Standard.” 

Lenovo’s leadership in sustainability was bolstered this year when it became one of the first companies to have net-zero targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative. The company is on track to meet its near-term emissions reduction targets for 2030, including reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 50% and Scope 3 emissions intensities by 66.5% from purchased goods and services, 35% from sold products, and 25% from upstream transportation and distribution. Lenovo is collaborating with suppliers to reduce its scope 3 (value chain) emissions, traditionally the largest and most difficult to track in a complex, global supply chain.  

Lenovo is committed to sustainability through holistic innovations. In the fiscal year 2022/23, it accelerated its transition to a circular economy by increasing the number of products with 'closed loop' recycled content from end-of-life IT and electronics. Impressively, the global service provider incorporated recycled plastic into nearly 300 products, with the ThinkPad X1 laptops launched at CES 2023 being a prime example. These laptops boast up to 97% Post Consumer Content (PCC) plastic in the battery enclosure and up to 95% PCC plastic in the speaker enclosures and AC adapter.

Lenovo collaborates across its entire value chain to make a sustainable impact. That's why Lenovo created "Lenovo 360 Circle", a sustainability community that supports and empowers Lenovo’s downstream ecosystem. By uniting people, programs, and tools, Lenovo 360 Circle unlocks the full breadth & depth of Lenovo’s sustainability strategy for channel partners. The community facilitates collaboration to tackle sustainability issues as a united front and accelerate decarbonization within the IT industry. 

Make Peace with YourSelf

When you make peace with yourself, you make peace with the world. You realize that there are so many things that are not worth your time, your effort, and your emotions. 

Things that used to rile you up will no longer have that power over you. 

Things that used to hurt you will no longer be able to do so for a prolonged period of time. 

Things that used to crush you will no longer be able to hold you down. 

When you make peace with yourself, you make peace with the world. You make peace with the fact that sometimes, things just happen. People will hurt you for no good reason. Life is unfair. 

And all of that is okay. 

• The friend who turned out to be envious of you
• The person you loved who did not appreciate you 
• The people who barely know you but hate you
• The friend who wasn't a friend but pretended to be one to get dibs on you
• The naysayers who keep telling you you can't do it
• The bashers who try hard to put you down 
• The relatives who only want to use you
• The family member who doesn't believe in you or belittles you

They will no longer matter because you know who you are. You know what you are capable of. You know the real you. 

So their words, their thoughts, their ideas, and their very existence will no longer hurt you as much as they used to. It may sting but you can easily go past it. You can easily shake it off because you know the truth.

When you make peace with yourself, you make peace with the world. And at the end of the day, this is all that matters. 

Healthy, Resilient skin with the Yoboo Baby Skincare Set

A baby’s skin is only 1/4 the thickness of adult skin, making it more fragile and sensitive to mechanical stress. It can also be prone to dryness, redness, and itching, which is why it requires extra care by developing good skincare habits with the help of gentle, high-quality products.

Finding the most suitable product for your baby’s skin can be challenging due to overwhelming options and information. After all, parents just want the best for their children.

Committed to helping every family raise children in a relaxed and scientific manner, the Japanese-based brand yoboo provides expertly crafted skincare products for babies using natural plant extracts and biomimetic essence to awaken the skin’s intrinsic vitality.

“As each day goes by, your baby will be exposed to more environments as they experience and learn more about what the world has to offer,” said Chinen Rina, Pediatrician and Founder of yoboo. “Through its products, yoboo aims to provide expert care for baby’s skin at any time, whether it’s to protect it from the sun, soothe it from any discomfort or sensitivity, or sustain its moisture after a bath. Its formulations result in the ultimate baby care experience so that your child can enjoy life with healthy and resilient skin.”

For comprehensive skincare for baby’s head to toe, yoboo offers Baby Skincare Sets for ages 0-6 which include:

Baby Soothing Wash and Shampoo (400ml), a 2-in-1 foaming wash enriched with PRO-V5, vitamin E, Bisabolol, and camellia seed oil to gently and effectively clean the skin, properly hydrate it, and preserve its elasticity. Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can also help relieve any discomfort and improve any sensitive skin condition in a timely manner. With these gentle ingredients, you can be assured of the best care for your baby's skin. 

Baby Refreshing Moisturizer (70g), is a body lotion that can hydrate and soothe dryness and redness with every use. One application of its transparent ice crystal texture turns it into water, making it light and burden-free. Its multidimensional water-locking system, double aloe vera juice and vitamin B5, and natural herbal extracts work together to nourish and lock in the moisture to make the body feel silky, refreshed, and comfortable.

Through various tests with its users, Yoboo found out that the Yoboo Baby Refreshing Moisturizer can ultimately soothe your baby's skin by 30% within one hour of application. In these tests, all of the participants reported immediate skin hydration, 96% said that the product improved their baby's skin dryness, while 88% said that redness was immediately reduced.

OlivOat Baby Cream (40g), is a body moisturizer enriched with glycerin, ceramide NP, and urea to improve a baby’s skin resistance. It features a lecithin-emulsified liquid crystal system that is easily absorbed, penetrating the skin quickly without burdening it. Tender on the outside and moisturizing on the inside, the cream promotes double barrier protection which enhances the skin’s defense.

Aside from its moisturizing benefits, the OlivOat Baby Cream also has a unique dispensing feature. By pressing the top of the bottle with both hands at the same time, the cream will be dispensed at the top center of the cream outlet. This design ensures efficient dispensing, with no unnecessary leaks and spills. This design assures an equal amount of cream suitable for every use and prevents secondary contamination.

The yoboo Baby Skincare Gift Set is available in Shopee and Lazada for Php 1,199.00. To learn more about yoboo and its products, visit yoboo.ph or the Yoboo - Philippines Official Facebook Page.