BRAILLE FOR THE SEEING: FILIPINO CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS ON PHOTOGRAPHY

Bilang Aswang by Neo Maestro

Press Release:

In an era marked by the pervasive influence of screens and digital encounters, our perception of art has undergone a dramatic shift, further aggravated by the pandemic. Online exhibitions, the promotion of art on social media, and the virtual acquisition of art have become the new norm. While this digital accessibility offers undeniable advantages, such as respite from the grueling Metro Manila traffic, the prolonged lockdowns have highlighted the profound need for in-person sensory engagement, especially in the realm of art.

Kaleldo, Misteryoso Seryoso Pilosopo Jusko by Gerone Soriano

In the upcoming featured exhibit organized by the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division, titled Braille for the Seeing, the participating Filipino contemporary artists aspire to rekindle the profound joy of encountering art directly by delving into the diverse facets of contemporary photography, redefining, re-examining, and reimagining the medium.

Untitled (Dwelling) by Poklong Anading

A CCP Exhibition Venue Grant Program recipient in 2020, the exhibit opens on November 7, 2023, at the CCP’s Bulwagang Roberto Chabet, located on the third floor of the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater).  The exhibit runs until December 10, 2023.

The group exhibit features works by Poklong Anading, Idan Cruz, Teo Esguerra, Angel Flores, Neo Maestro, Rhaz Oriente, Gary-Ross Pastrana, Angela Silva, Gerome Soriano, Jan Sunday, Stephanie Syjuco, Miguel Lorenzo Uy, and MM Yu.

Braille for the Seeing features a diverse ensemble of Filipino contemporary artists, transcending generations, influences, and backgrounds. Their shared enthusiasm for exploring and experimenting with various artistic mediums and expressions defines the foundation of this presentation.

The exhibit highlights photography, as it evolves into different sculptural, physical, and material forms, interplaying with light, space, and scale; becoming interactive, through computer programs, chemical processes, and prompts.

What started out as a discussion about the growing movement towards digitalization of art appreciation evolved into a curiosity about the possibilities of photography.

Teo Esguerra and Gerome Soriano submitted a proposal in 2019, aiming to showcase works in photography that only personal experience would satisfy. But as circumstances would have it, the COVID-19 pandemic struck the world and for more than 2 years, humanity has been in lockdown, causing unprecedented disruption to our lives.

Now that the world has opened up again, this project has finally seen its fruition – with a larger group of artists, a new venue, and an audience recently liberated from pandemic restrictions.

Engage with the artworks on a personal level and immerse in the exhibition's multi-sensory dimensions. In doing so, one gets to challenge preconceptions and allows the broadening of our understanding of contemporary photography in the context of contemporary art.

Experience Braille for the Seeing exhibit by stepping away from the gadget screens.

Follow the official CCP and CCP VAMD social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

 

The Manila Hotel’s Holiday Gift Hampers for the Season

 

The holidays are fast approaching and it’s that time of the year when we do our Christmas shopping. The Manila Hotel proudly showcases the launch of its exclusive collection of holiday gift hampers for those looking for tokens of the holidays. These thoughtfully crafted hampers offer a delightful array of luxurious treats and unique experiences, making them the perfect gift for friends, family, or corporate partners.

Having more than a century’s worth of bespoke service and timeless experiences, The Manila Hotel has lovingly curated a selection of gift hampers that embody the essence of thoughtfulness and indulgence. Each hamper is carefully designed to delight the senses, ensuring that recipients experience the true magic of the holiday season.

From gourmet confectioneries to premium wines and spirits, the holiday gift hampers from the Grand Dame are a treasure trove of delectable treats. Indulge in artisanal chocolate pralines, decadent cookies, and handcrafted sweets that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. The hampers also include a selection of fine teas, coffees, and wine and spirits perfect for cozy winter evenings.

Our wide selection of sweet and savory artisan food provides the perfect mix of the season’s produce that lets one and all to a sharing and snacking throughout the holiday. We have three hamper options to choose from: Standard, De Luxe, and Premium. All these are filled with goodies and treats for you to enjoy.

This holiday season, give the gift of delight to your loved ones. Don’t miss out on our 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟐𝟓 𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 𝐭𝐨 𝟑𝟎 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑.

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫 – 𝐏𝐡𝐩 𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫 – 𝐏𝐡𝐩 𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

‘Harana’ Pralines in Sinamay Box (9 pieces), ‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar), Santa Claus Chocolate (small), Christmas Cookies, Fruit Cake (small), Gingerbread Man (big)

𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐱𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫 – 𝐏𝐡𝐩 𝟑,𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐱𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫 – 𝐏𝐡𝐩 𝟑,𝟐𝟎𝟎 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

Santa Ana Cabernet Sauvignon or Santa Ana Chardonnay (375 ml), ‘Wangis’ (The Manila Hotel façade chocolate bar), Christmas Cookies, Gingerbread Man (big), Matte Gold Pralines (10 pieces), Assorted Nut Cluster, Santa Claus Chocolate (big), Fruit Cake (big), Food for the Gods

𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫 – 𝐏𝐡𝐩 𝟒,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭

The Manila Hotel Regular Prestige Card, The Manila Hotel Willy the Bear, Pico Andino Cabernet (750ml), Pralines (6 pieces), Santa Claus Chocolate (medium), The Manila Hotel Coffee Drip, The Manila Hotel Chocolate Bar with Almonds, Banana Thins.

CitySavings celebrates 100B loan portfolio, continues to elevate lives through financial inclusion

 

PRESS RELEASE:

City Savings Bank, Inc. (CitySavings), the thrift arm subsidiary of Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines (UnionBank) has been serving people of moderate means since 1965. From a single-product bank focused on teachers’ loans, of which CitySavings is the market leader, it has transformed into a financial institution that offers a wide range of financial products tailored to the mass market segment including motorcycle lending and other salary loan segments. The Bank continues to trailblaze in the thrift banking sector as it celebrates its achievement of a 100 billion loan portfolio owing this milestone to its clients.

“We care deeply for our clients and continuously strive to deliver superior customer experience even during the pandemic. They are the reason for our success and for that, we are immensely grateful to them. With our basic philosophy of ‘Simple is Good’, we will continue to fulfill our purpose of elevating communities through financial inclusion”, shared CitySavings Chief Executive Officer Lorenzo T. Ocampo.

As of August 2023, the thrift bank hit a net income after tax (NIAT) of Php 2.1 billion, generated 72 billion in loan releases, and achieved Return on Equity (ROE) of 16.2%. The thrift bank’s loan portfolio level soared with a 35% year-over-year (YOY) increase at Php 97.5 billion end-of-month (EOM) and a 31% YOY increase in interest income.

The Bank’s growth and innovation drive has earned recognition in recent years as the 2019 Fastest Growing Savings Bank in the Philippines by the Global Business Outlook, 2020 Best Employer Brand by Employer Branding Institute - India, and the 2021 Philippines Technology Excellence Awardee for its chatbot Talk to Maria at the Asian Technology Excellence Awards.

These accolades were followed by CitySavings being named again as the 2022 Fastest Growing Savings Bank by the International Business Magazine, 2022 Most Innovative Savings Bank, and 2023 Most Customer-Centric Savings Bank by International Finance. The Philippine Daily Inquirer and international market research firm Statista recognized the Bank in its 2023 Philippines Growth Champions list of the top 25 companies that have achieved the highest revenue percentage growth between 2018 and 2021.

Its strategy of offering simple and straightforward banking coupled with warm and helpful service and relevant products has worked favorably for CitySavings. The Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to creating innovative solutions to deliver the best customer experience through its digital channels. 

The Loan Ranger Mobile (LRM) App allows teacher-clients to view their account balances in real-time and apply for a reloan anytime, anywhere. While CitySavings’ chatbot, Talk to Maria offers a convenient 24/7 inquiry service and a seamless new loan application process. Through its parent, UnionBank, CitySavings also rolled out Bank-on-Wheels to make banking services more accessible.

“Our journey through the years has brought many opportunities and challenges but we have managed to do well. In 2022, the Bank delivered above-target financial performance which we, at the CitySavings team, are immensely proud of. This milestone of achieving a 100 billion loan portfolio is a solid testament that we are on our way to becoming the leading mass market bank in the Philippines” CitySavings President Manuel Santiago, Jr. said.

Challenge the Usual: DMA& Co. secures partnership with Home Credit PH

 

Press Release:

Dugenia, Marayan, and Associates Company (DM&A Co.) announced today its appointment as the PR agency on record of Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the leading consumer finance company, for 2023 to 2024.

This strategic move follows Home Credit’s 10th anniversary this year and its dedication to ensuring that it continues to deliver innovative financial services. Home Credit has been a trusted ally for every Filipino since 2013, empowering the country with innovative financial services that provide fast and convenient access to credit, helping people live the life they want. Staying true to its mission, Home Credit has undergone phenomenal growth over the years in its effort to expand its operations, products, and services to meet the changing needs of consumers.

"As we celebrate a decade of trust and financial empowerment, we believe that DM&A Co.’s expertise can help us connect with our media friends and customers more effectively. The agency’s collaborative and people-focused approach aligns seamlessly with our values at Home Credit Philippines. Together, we will continue to innovate and challenge the usual to better serve and help empower Filipinos financially so they can realize the life they truly deserve,” said Kenneth Lerona, Head of PR, Home Credit Philippines.

DMA& Co, a well-established, full-service, strategy-oriented, omni-channel marketing communications agency, now collaborates with Home Credit to ensure that its stories reach its stakeholders. DM& A Co's tagline, "Challenge the Usual," underscores its mission to bring fresh perspectives and creative vigor to the partnership.

DM & A Co. Managing Partner Michael Dugenia expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration. "We look forward to working closely with Home Credit, a brand synonymous with financial empowerment in the Philippines. Our team is eager to embark on this journey as we dedicate ourselves to crafting creative PR initiatives that leave a lasting impact while helping reaffirm Home Credit's unwavering commitment to its customers.”

DM& A Co. is composed of PR experts who are collaborative, client-centric, and people-focused. The team has more than 40 years of combined experience in providing strategically sound marketing communications programs that add value to a brand's reputation, increase market share, and enhance the brand's standing in the industry.

DM& A Co. External Director and Partner Alvin Marayan, Client Servicing Lead Maika De Castro, and Head of Content and Strategic Planning Officer Jj Ibarreta, along with PR and Content Writer Lorelee Yap, Media Relations Officer Jainy Carilla, and Junior PR Consultant Sheena Macinas, have been assigned to handle Home Credit’s PR requirements.

How to Maintain Your Online Jewelry Brand

 

Running a jewelry business in 2023 is undoubtedly a lucrative venture, but how do you ensure that you are operating at maximum efficiency? With so much fierce competition and a definite vibe of customer loyalty, there is a lot to navigate. It is up to you to put yourself at the top of the chain and create bold strategies that support better business practices. Read on to find out more.

Fine-Tune Your Sales Pitch

Your products are the things that set you apart from other businesses, so how do you showcase them properly? The picture you should be painting is one of uniqueness. It must be a true reflection of your core products while aiming to enhance what makes you different, and worth a customer’s investment. This is why your first job is to fine-tune the all-important sales pitch! Create a dazzling product description, invest in a professional photo shoot, and make sure you are on the right (and optimal) selling platforms.

Go Where the People Go

Speaking of selling platforms, do you know where your target audience likes to shop? Amazon is great for technology and household items, and more or less everything in between, but when it comes to bespoke, small-brand jewelry, it is often better to move onto the smaller platforms like Instagram and Etsy. You can set up a shop easily and use the handy business tools to track customer engagement and create marketing agendas too.

Marketing Focus

Speaking of marketing, what have you got in place at the minute? Some smaller jewelry stores rely on word-of-mouth recommendations, but this is not always the best way to reach potential customers. You can invest some time and money into targeted marketing approaches and work hard to boost your brand appeal by creating relevant content too. People love having someone to follow who is both interesting and speaks with authority on the specific branch of business, and this could be you if you channel your efforts in the right direction.

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS TO PASTORES FOLK DANCE COMPETITION

 

In a time when accustomed cultures and traditions are slowly diminishing, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) continuously develops programs, projects, and productions that promote artistic excellence and nurture the broadest public to participate in art making and cultural appreciation.

For the holiday season, CCP and its resident company Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group (ROFG) bring back the old tradition of Pastores and reintroduce it to young generations through the Vamos A Belén 2023, a festive event showcasing a variety of Philippine Christmas traditions in the forms of competition, exhibition, and performances.

From October 16, 2023 to November 30, 2023, CCP and ROFG will be accepting applications for the Pastores folk dance competition, dubbed Vamos A Belén: Sama-Samang Paggunita at Pagdiriwang.

Translated as “Let’s go to Bethlehem,” the cultural competition aims to nurture art appreciation and develop cultural awareness among the young generation on different Philippine holiday traditions.

The project, led by CCP Artist Training Division and ROFG, also aims to promote and popularize National Artist Ramon A. Obusan’s documented Pastores music and dances, traditions, and collections, as well as create active arts program that develops art appreciation, cultural awareness for the youth, and continued advancement of NA Obusan’s legacy.

The competition is open to all school-based, community-based, and professional folk dance troupes only residing in the Philippines. Each group must be composed of a minimum of eight performers and a maximum of 12 performers, aged 15 years old and above.

A Competition Briefing and Orientation, as well as a Contest Piece Workshop, will happen on November 4, 2023, at Bahay ni Kuya Mon in Pasay City. Registered groups are highly advised to attend the briefing and workshop.

Participating groups will have to create their own interpretation based on the literature of the competition piece, that is Infantes of Sanchez Mira, Cagayan Valley. Participants will perform on-site on December 16, 2023, at 4:00 pm, at the Tanghalang Ignacio B. Gimenez (CCP Blackbox Theater).

Another treat is the Vamos A Belén 2023 Performance, scheduled on December 17, 6:00 pm, held at the TIG. The ROFG along with its affiliate groups and previous winners of the Pastores Dance Competition will perform Posadas, Pastores dances and Filipino Christmas influences.

To complete the traditional Paskong Pinoy experience, CCP and ROFG will exhibit the Belén collection of National Artist for Dance Ramon A. Obusan on-site and online. A tableau of the nativity scene will be featured in the exhibit. The on-site exhibit will be open to the public on December 16 to 21, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez Lobby. The virtual exhibit will be available on CCP and ROFG social media platforms on December 21, 2023.

For additional information on Vamos A Belén: Sama-samang Paggunita at Pagdiriwang, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph). Follow CCP's official social media accounts on Facebook, X, and Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

CCP CONTINUES TO PROMOTE INDIGENOUS LULLABIES IN THE PHILIPPINES WITH HIMIG HIMBING: MGA HELENG ATIN

 

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), a project dedicated to developing nurturers and children who are anchored in our Philippine songs and hele, is planned to re-launch "Himig Himbing: Mga Heleng Atin" on November 5, 2023, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (TIG). 

This year's Himig Himbing, created by the CCP Arts Education Department's Audience Development Division, includes eight new music videos of lullabies based on ethnomusicologist Sol Trinidad's study and musical arrangement by Krina Cayabyab.

Esteemed Filipino directors Zig Dulay, Jerrold Tarog, Sheron Dayoc, Doy and Ida Del Mundo, Ma-an Asuncion Dagalan, Vic Acedillo Jr, Arden Condez, and Christopher Gozum are set to direct these music videos.

The Himig Himbing collection will also be published as a book featuring forewords by National Artist for Music Dr. Ramon A. Santos, and National Social Scientist Dr. Honey Carandang, adding significant prestige to this cultural initiative.

 

From Nov. 5 onwards these lullabies will also be available on Spotify and other Digital Service Platforms. 

Soothing Filipino lullabies for all ages

While lullabies were initially intended to soothe babies and children, the Himig Himbing collection strives to provide comfort to all. Every song's calm, repetitive melody may soothe the soul of both young and elderly.

"Lubi-Lubi," directed by Jerrold Tarog, is one of the collection's most well-known tracks. Lubi-Lubi is a lullaby written by Antonio Regalario in Bicol and performed by Restituta Tutaez. This particular tune, backed by lyrics symbolizing the months of the year, is a well-known lullaby used to put children to sleep in various regions of the Philippines. 

Meanwhile, director Sheron Dayoc seeks to preserve the Mansaka language, one of the endangered Philippine languages spoken by fewer than 60,000 people worldwide. He accomplishes this by highlighting the lullaby “Uyug-Uyug,” which derives its name from the gentle rocking motion it evokes. This Mansaka lullaby possesses the remarkable ability to calm a child's tears while offering the comforting message that their mother will soon recover from her ailment.

 

In Gonon Klukab Tumabaga, filmmakers Doy and Ida Del Mundo filmmakers Doy and Ida Del Mundo endeavor to showcase the remarkable way lullabies encapsulate the essence of everyday life and the geographical landscape of a community, seamlessly interwoven into the song's narrative. This specific Blaan lullaby not only serves the purpose of lulling a child to sleep but also incorporates the local names of musical instruments, rivers, mountains, and imparts a subtle life lesson within its verses.

 

Director Ma-an Asuncion Dagñalan, on the other hand, embarks on a journey to revisit Pampanga's documented history of resistance against the Spanish colonizers. She does so by intertwining memories and stories of local heroes and heroines within the Kapampangan lullaby “O Matas A Banua.”

 

Vic Acedillo Jr. includes “Tungas kay ta Sampaw” in the collection with the aim of preserving the endangered indigenous Manobo Kinamiging language used within Camiguin, a historic town on the northern coast of Mindanao.

 

Guests will also find comfort in director Arden Condez's rendition of the Boholano lullaby “Bata Alimahi (Foster the Child).” The song tells the story of a mother who seeks the help of her mother to care for her child. The lullaby highlights the reality that a mother's role continues as she will give the same love and care to her grandchild.

 

Lastly, director Christopher Gozum breathes new life into the Pangasinense lullaby “Ligliway teng.” Found in the 2002 publication of the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino titled “Mga Katutubong Awiting Pangasinan: Cancansion ng Pangasinan,” this enchanting lullaby conveys the message that children are the soothing remedy for weariness and sorrow, serving as a source of solace in times of fatigue and sadness.

 

For additional information on Himig Himbing, please visit the CCP website at www.culturalcenter.gov.ph and follow CCP's official social media accounts on Facebook, X, and Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

 

UNIQLO and White Mountaineering to Launch Second Collaboration Made from Recycled Materials

 

UNIQLO, a global fashion store, recently unveiled a second collaboration collection with Japanese outdoor gear company White Mountaineering. This new LifeWear collection includes two outerwear styles made from recycled materials for people of all ages.

Recycled Hybrid Down Jacket

Php 4,990 (three colors available)

This jacket is stuffed with recycled down and feathers taken from worn clothes donated to stores by customers. Padding is used in the sleeves and upper back to provide warmth and freedom of movement, and the wave quilting design allows for attractive layering. In addition, the garment has exceptional water repellency and heat retention capabilities.

                    

Fleece Full-Zip Long Sleeve Hoodie
Php 2,990 (four colors available)

A parka with a 100% recycled polyester fleece component that combines long-layered boa fleece and a smooth-surface fleece material. The garment has pockets on the left chest and waist, size adjusters at the hem, and binder cuffs that make rolling up the sleeves simple.

Collection details

Launch date: Friday, October 13, 2023

Availability: Select UNIQLO stores and uniqlo.com

Sizes: Recycled Hybrid Down Jacket (S-XL) ; Fleece Full-Zip Long Sleeve Hoodie (S-XL)

Special site: https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/special-feature/special-collaboration/white-mountaineering/23fw 

White Mountaineering

Yosuke Aizawa, the company's founder, was born in 1977. After graduating from Tama Art University's Department of Product and Textile Design in 2006, he founded the White Mountaineering brand. Since 2016, he has shown collections at Paris Fashion Week and continues to create for a variety of major businesses. He teaches at Tama Art University and Tohoku University of Art and Design.

PHA Usapang Puso sa Puso: AED LAW: POTENT BOOSTER FOR CPR-READY PH

 

What exactly is a restart a heart day?  It is a day that reminds everyone of the invaluable benefit of understanding how to restart a stopped heart, and anyone may acquire basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills and potentially save a life in the event of a cardiac arrest. 

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) or sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a global health issue that can occur to anybody when the heart's electrical activity beats rapidly and then stops abruptly. SCA can be caused by a heart attack.

The day's goal is to teach more people what to do if someone collapses and stops breathing. Calling 999, performing CPR, and using a defibrillator, if one is available, are three of the most crucial, immediate things to take.

Usapang Puso sa Puso hosts Dr. Robspierre Reyes and Dr. Francis Lavapie

Exploring the Meditative Side of Sewing

 

Explore the wonders of sewing

Many of us yearn for a tranquil space to unplug, slow down, and find inner peace in a world filled with digital noise, constant distractions, and the never-ending hustle and bustle. While meditation practices like mindfulness and yoga have become increasingly popular for achieving this calm state, there's another somewhat unexpected avenue to explore: the meditative side of sewing.

Once regarded primarily as a practical and functional skill, sewing has evolved into an art form that offers numerous benefits for mental well-being. It's not just about stitching fabric; it's about switching your mental tapestry of serenity and tranquility.

The Rhythmic Repetition

At its core, sewing as a meditative practice involves engaging in repetitive, rhythmic actions. The gentle, flowing motions of guiding a needle through the fabric, pulling a thread, and watching as a stitch emerges create a soothing and mesmerizing experience. The steady rhythm of these actions can help calm the mind, making it easier to focus on the present moment, just as traditional meditation aims to release the grip of our racing thoughts and find stillness within the repetitive movements.

The Flow State

One of the most significant aspects of sewing as a meditative practice is its ability to induce a state of "flow."  Flow is a mental state where you become fully absorbed in an activity, losing track of time and external distractions. Sewing can easily lead to this state when approached with intention and mindfulness. The intricate concentration required to thread a needle, make precise stitches, and follow a pattern immerses you in the task at hand, blocking the clamor of modern life. It's a state of mindful creation that provides a welcome escape from the chaos of daily existence.

Elevating Christmas with Gifts for the Music Aficionado

 

Christmas is a season of harmony, a time to celebrate the joy of giving and the pleasure of receiving. For the music aficionado in your life, the perfect gift is more than just an item; a melody that resonates with their soul, adding a unique note to their collection. Here's a guide to elevating Christmas with gifts that cater to the musical passion of your loved ones.

High-Quality Headphones

For the music lover who appreciates solitude with their tunes, a pair of high-quality headphones is a gift that amplifies their experience. Look for noise-canceling features, exceptional sound quality, and comfortable designs. Wireless options provide freedom of movement, making them ideal for commuting, traveling, or simply enjoying music at home.

Vinyl Records and Turntables

Vinyl records have made a remarkable comeback, appealing to both nostalgic hearts and new enthusiasts. Gift your music aficionado a vinyl record of their favorite artist or album. Pair it with a stylish turntable that combines vintage aesthetics with modern technology, enhancing their listening experience.

DTI's Go Lokal teams up with Okada Manila to Propel Small Businesses

 

The Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion (DTI-BDTP) has reached another milestone with its Go Lokal! Program with its recent collaboration with Tiger Resorts, Leisure and Entertainment, Inc. (TRLEI), the operator of the acclaimed Forbes Travel Guide Okada Manila is a 5-star integrated resort.

Okada Manila, located in Paranaque Entertainment City, will exclusively showcase Go Lokal! The Retreat Spa and The Sole Retreat Foot Spa and Reflexology Center offer quality grooming, spa, and wellness services. This partnership will also include Okada Manila's additional business areas including PLAY points redemption, The Gift Boutique offers, and in-room amenities for hotel guests.

“Okada Manila has always been a staunch advocate and supporter of supporting Filipino merchants, products, and services since day one. This mutually beneficial partnership with the DTI-BDTP will help us develop more services and offer more Filipino products to our guests. We vow to continue supporting the government in its initiatives to promote how world-class Filipino products are,” TRLEI President and Chief Operating Officer Byron Yip said.

Director Marievic M. Bonoan of the DTI-BDTP emphasized the importance of the new partnership, “Our partnership with Okada Manila will help our local businesses reach new market segments and bolster their presence in the mainstream market.”

Lokal, go! Since its inception in December 2016, a free-market access platform for Philippine micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) has continued to expand its reach through collaboration with chosen retail partners. To date, the DTI has collaborated with 23 retail partners and has opened

112 Go Lokal stores were opened around the country, and 494 MSMEs were helped to become regular suppliers to its retail partners. The program had produced Php 616.27 million in sales as of June 2023.

Stay updated through Go Lokal’’s social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

For further details about the DTI’s Go Lokal! campaign, you may also email: DTI-BDTP Director

4 Signs You Should Visit a Chiropractor

 

Many people experience chronic pain, whether that is in the shoulders, lower back or neck. The pain can be so excruciating that they would do anything for relief. Fortunately, many have been able to do so with the help of chiropractors. These professionals use various alignment and manipulation techniques to correct different issues that might be causing the pain and other symptoms. So, should everyone who has pain see a chiropractor? That depends, but some situations mandate the need for one.

MDPPA Celebrates 50 Years of Riding Roads Responsibly

 

(Left-right) Vaibhav Srivastava, TVS Regional Business Head for ASEAN; Hiroshi Koike, President of Yamaha Motor Philippines; Koichiro Hirao, President of Suzuki Philippines; Isao Sudo, President of Kawasaki Motors Philippines; Jomel Jerezo, Representing Honda Philippines Incorporated; Norminio "Boying" C. Mojica, MDPPA President; Alex Cumpas, MDPPA Vice President; Alfredo O. Lejano, MDPPA Auditor; Erwin D. Estrada, MDPPA Treasurer; Edwin Go, MDAP President

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), which represents key motorcycle manufacturers like as Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki, recently celebrated its golden anniversary in dramatic style. This two-day event honored MDPPA's extraordinary journey in creating the Philippine motorcycle industry while pushing for responsible and safe motorcycling practices.

With the theme "MDPPA Rider’s United: Riding Roads Responsibly for 50 Years," the event kicked off on October 6, 2023, at the Trinoma Activity Center in Quezon City, bringing together motorcycle enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the public to celebrate the enduring presence and positive impact of motorcycle enthusiasts over the past half-century. The event also aimed to foster a spirit of unity among motorcyclists, regardless of their diverse backgrounds, and to convey a clear message about the importance of adhering to motorcycle laws and promoting responsible riding. 

The first day of the event began with the formal opening of exhibit booths, which displayed the most recent innovations in motorcycle technology, safety gear, and accessories from various motorcycle-related firms in the industry. Motorcycle aficionados got the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge technologies and developments, as well as special insights into the motorcycle industry's future.

MDPPA President Norminio C. Mojica expressed the organization's pride in this achievement, saying, "Our journey of 50 years is a testament to our commitment to safety, innovation, and community. We remain steadfast in our purpose—to be the most relevant motorcycle association, proactively addressing the needs of industry stakeholders, and oriented towards global competitiveness and the sustainable development of the motorcycle industry."

Included in the event highlight is the introduction of TVS Philippines as the newest member of the Association. Mr. Vaibhav Srivastava (TVS Regional Business Head for Asia) shared “It is truly a joy and honor for TVS to be part of MDPPA, with MDPPA’s 50 years of existence as an Association and TVS more than 100-year of Trust, Value, and Passion for Customers and Exactness, we truly believed that our membership would create a stronger bond and beneficial partnership with its members “

MDPPA also thanked its members and sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the years. Their efforts have been crucial in the association's path, and their stories have acted as a monument to the biker community's solidarity and dedication.

A riveting concert featuring some of the Philippines' best musical talents added to the festive vibe. The audience was treated to a spectacular evening of music and entertainment. The motorbike raffle heightened the excitement, as lucky participants took home spectacular prizes, including a brand-new motorcycle.

The event served as a reminder of MDPPA's enduring commitment to road safety, innovation, and community building within the motorcycle industry. It was a moment to reflect on five decades of achievements and to look ahead to an even brighter future for motorcycling in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, a special Road Safety Summit was held at TESDA Women Center, Taguig last October 7. This event brought together 50 Riders Group/Club with more than 300 riders, fostering knowledge sharing and a deeper commitment to safety on the roads.

 

The occasion was graced by MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes as the keynote speaker and special guests from DOTR, LTO, MMDA, Philippine Red Cross, TESDA, and UPNCTS shared their activities, plans, and programs that are designed for all road users’ safety, especially riders. UPNCTS is the MDPPA partner organization for this special event, while Motorsiklo Xklusibo as media partner.

The summit featured discussions on the latest safety practices, programs, activities, riding experiences shared by riders, and strategies for making Philippine roads safer for everyone.

 

MDPPA Road Safety Committee also announced their upcoming search for the Best Riders group promoting Road Safety and the 2nd Search for the best delivery rider in 2024.

For MDPPA Vice President Alex Cumpas, the Road Safety Summit was a testament to MDPPA's dedication to promoting responsible motorcycling and enhancing road safety awareness. 

"One of the things we try to actively promote is road safety." We also strive to close gaps in global industrial regulation compliance, environmental protection, and technological innovation. And activities like this are how we communicate with our riders and represent them," Cumpas underlined. 

The two-day event was a rousing success, bringing together motorcycle fans, industry executives, and safety advocates in a collaborative effort to commemorate MDPPA's 50 years of achievement. Looking ahead, the association's commitment to responsible riding and road safety remains unchanged.

Visit MDPPA's website at http://mdppa.com.ph/ or its Facebook page to learn more.