Five urban development aspirations for Metro Manila

The effects of rapid urbanization are challenging Metro Manila's aspiration to become a global power city. These effects, including climate change, natural disasters, and unequal livability, job creation, and poverty reduction, are listed by UN-Habitat. However, Architect and urban designer Chintan Raveshia and urban planner and sustainability consultant Tony Chan, from Arup in Singapore, suggest that to overcome these challenges, urban development must also take into account the aspirations, changing needs and expectations of the people, and the national identity of the residents.

Finding the identity of the city 

Raveshia encourages responsible stakeholders to prioritize the question of a city's identity and how to foster pride among its residents. He cites Singapore as an example, where efforts to cultivate a sense of "lovability" have strengthened societal bonds, improved equity, community safety, and instilled a feeling of ownership among residents. Balancing liveability, efficiency, and lovability is key to success in the current climate emergency.

Meanwhile, Chan emphasizes that sustainable urban development should enhance people's quality of life. He advocates for low-carbon, human-scale, inclusive models that are just, secure, and promote quality of life for all residents. Additionally, he suggests exploring innovative ways to increase citizen participation and utilizing new technologies or products to support the overall vision and development goals.

What strategies could best suit Metro Manila's livable and sustainable future while preserving its identity, considering Singapore's land reclamation for affordable housing and integrated city developments and Melbourne's creation of accessible green spaces to encourage social interaction? Here are five urban development goals that Filipinos envision for the nation's primary political and economic center.

1. Accessibility across all social classes 

Despite being the Philippines' economic hub, Metro Manila struggles to maintain livable conditions for its residents across all social classes. According to the Global Liveability Index 2022 by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Metro Manila ranks 105th out of 139 cities due to increasing population density leading to problems like traffic congestion, lack of green open spaces, high carbon footprint, unaffordable housing, and unequal income opportunities.

To address these issues, urban planners and developers propose mixed-use planning and coastal developments in the metropolis. This approach is crucial in achieving the 15-minute concept, where residents of all backgrounds can lead healthy, affordable, and sustainable lifestyles, as residential, commercial, and office spaces are integrated within a single development.


2. Open green spaces for a healthy and sustainable living environment

Recent studies have revealed that Metro Manila provides only 5 square meters of green space per person, which is lower than the World Health Organization's recommended standard of 9 square meters. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a global reevaluation of health, lifestyle practices, and environmental conditions, with the impact being particularly severe in Metro Manila due to high population density, cramped spaces, and limited park and open areas.

In addition to improving air quality and promoting biodiversity, green spaces also help regulate temperatures during hot seasons.

3. Enhancing Human health and wellbeing  

Cities that prioritize healthcare facilities, access to health coverage, and infrastructure that promotes a healthy lifestyle tend to foster prosperous societies. The planning, design, and execution of cities have a significant impact on people's lives, presenting opportunities and challenges to their lifestyles and overall well-being. Although there is progress in Metro Manila's health sector, rapid urbanization continues to pose risks in communities due to challenges like overcrowded neighborhoods, vehicular emissions, heavy traffic, pollution, and flood-prone areas.

4. Resilient community 

Resilience refers to the ability of individuals, communities, and systems to cope, adapt, and transform in the face of stress, shocks, and changing conditions. The City Resilience Index developed by the Rockefeller Foundation & Arup identifies relevant dimensions such as Health & Well-being, Economy & Society, Infrastructure & Environment, and Leadership & Strategy.

As the Philippines and Manila continue to grow, we face the dual challenge of adapting to climate change and changing development strategies that contribute to global warming. The Philippines is among the top 10 countries in the world most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, according to the Global Climate Risk Index. Being an archipelago, the impacts of climate change are immense, and Metro Manila's safety and resilience are also endangered by various natural disasters that persist every season.

However, well-planned and executed urban designs have the power to build safe and resilient communities in Metro Manila. Infrastructure such as proper bike lanes and walkable streets ensures residents' safety, accessibility, and comfort. Additionally, science and technology-based solutions that can build flexible structures, multi-use systems, and technologies can help residents adapt and prepare for changing conditions.


5. Global and competitive city  

Metro Manila is a rapidly growing region and a major driver of economic growth in the Philippines. However, to further realize its potential, it can learn from successful global models such as Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong. These cities have implemented integrated urban planning, coastal developments, and sustainable infrastructure that have led to vibrant economies and improved urban lifestyles.

Adopting such models can provide increased job opportunities, better education, and a better quality of life for all residents of Metro Manila. This would not only contribute to the national and local economies but also create equitable and inclusive communities. Moreover, this would help attract more talent to the region and drive tourism and infrastructure development.

Building inclusive and sustainable growth centers 

It's important for cities to prioritize the needs and aspirations of their residents in order to foster a sense of community and make the urban landscape feel like a true extension of home. When all stakeholders are listened to and their concerns are addressed, well-designed and master-planned developments can energize communities and have a lasting impact on the future of Metro Manila by promoting more inclusive growth.

Cities that embrace their history, celebrate their milestones, and innovate for the future are working towards unlocking their full potential and becoming more competitive. Additionally, cities that prioritize the well-being and aspirations of their residents create a positive feedback loop that attracts more talent and investment, leading to even greater success in the future.

So, what kind of city do you aspire to live in?

Glister by Amway for a Healthy Smile, Happier You

Oral health is crucial for overall wellbeing and quality of life, as the mouth serves as a gateway for both nutrition and disease to enter the body. Observing proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing every day, can help prevent dental problems like cavities, gum diseases, and bad breath, while also contributing to more serious conditions linked to cardiovascular and respiratory health.

3-step Plus One Oral Care routine - Brush, Floss, Rinse and Refresh

Amway's Glister brand advocates for a 3-Step Oral Care System that's designed to gently clean teeth, freshen breath, and keep gums healthy without disrupting the delicate oral microbiome. The system includes Glister Multi-Action Toothpaste, Glister Multi-Action Toothbrush, Glister Multi-Action Dental Floss, Glister Multi-Action Concentrated Oral Rinse, and Glister Mint Refresher Spray.

Glister Multi-Action Toothpaste is the top-selling Amway product for the past 25 years, and it can gently and effectively prevent cavities, remove plaque, and reduce staining on teeth enamel for a whiter, brighter smile. It also has Reminact technology that helps redeposit essential minerals back onto the enamel through remineralization, strengthening the teeth and making them more resistant to decay. With just the right amount of fluoride, Glister toothpaste effectively prevents the demineralization effect of acid formed in the plaque of the teeth. It simply means further protection against cavities.

The Glister Multi-Action Toothbrush has soft and medium bristles, engineered with an in-mold technology that provides a thinner head, allowing for more effective cleaning of hard-to-reach places, with an integrated tongue/cheek cleaner. The Glister Multi-Action Dental Floss is designed to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas while also gently stimulating the gums, with a flat ribbon shape that's coated with a naturally derived wax that allows it to slide and glide smoothly between teeth and just below the gumline.

Apart from helping kill gingivitis and bad breath-causing bacteria, Glister Multi-Action Concentrated Oral Rinse can significantly reduce plaque and clean between teeth, compared to just brushing. What's amazing is that this oral rinse can also be diluted for up to 100 uses per bottle because it has a highly-concentrated formula. The Glister Mint Refresher Spray is designed for those always on the go, providing long-lasting fresh breath and extra confidence with just a single pump.

Glister oral health products are formulated with plant- and naturally derived ingredients, including Nutrilite-grown peppermint essential oil. They are also free from alcohol, parabens, and animal-derived ingredients, ensuring that they are safe and effective for everyone's peace of mind.

We're all smiles during the launch! With Ms. Carla, Ms. Bibien, and Ms. Leni of Amway Philippines

Amway is an entrepreneur-led health and wellness company committed to helping people live better, healthier lives across more than 100 countries and territories worldwide. Nutrilite, Artistry, and XS energy drinks are some of their top-selling brands – all sold exclusively by entrepreneurs known as Amway Business Owners. Global sales of $7.9 billion made Amway the No. 1 direct selling business in the world, according to the 2020 Direct Selling News Global 100.

In conclusion, Glister oral health products offer a comprehensive 3-Step Oral Care System that can help keep our mouths, teeth, and oral microbiome healthy, contributing to our overall health, wellness, and happiness. By observing proper oral hygiene and using Glister products, we can strengthen and protect the delicate gateway to our entire body and achieve a radiant and healthy smile.

New Acer Chromebook : Built for Productivity, with an Eco-Friendly and Durable Design

Acer has recently launched two performance-driven and eco-friendly convertible Chromebooks - the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Enterprise Spin 714. Both devices have a 14-inch 16:10 WUXGA display, which provides vivid displays and high-quality video conferencing with its built-in QHD 2K webcam, 100% sRGB coverage, and DTS Audio. The new Chromebooks run on 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processors and adhere to Intel Evo platform standards, providing responsive performance and up to 10 hours of battery life. The battery can be quick-charged for only 30 minutes to provide up to four hours of use. The Chromebooks come with an optional USI stylus that provides 4,096 different levels of pressure and tilt sensitivity, allowing for a natural feel and precise strokes when sketching or note-taking on the display. 

These new models provide a premium video conferencing solution for work and school with their QHD 2K webcam, which comes with temporal noise reduction technology to maintain high-quality visuals even in low-light conditions, as well as a physical shutter to protect privacy. They stay connected via Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 and have additional ports such as HDMI and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. The devices can be unlocked via an optional fingerprint reader, and the backlit keyboard and Corning Gorilla Glass touchpad deliver a premium feel, making them a joy to use.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Enterprise Spin 714 support Acer's Earthion mission, boasting several eco-friendly features and an EPEAT registration. They contain post-consumer recycled plastics, while the packaging is made entirely of recycled materials, including molded pulp packaging made from recycled paper, cardboard, and other natural fibers. Also, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Enterprise Spin 714 meet Energy Star certification, featuring an energy-efficient design.

The Acer Chromebook Enterprise Spin 714 gives access to Chrome Enterprise Upgrade, unlocking the built-in business capabilities of ChromeOS. IT departments can easily drop ship devices to employees with zero-touch enrollment and allow them to seamlessly manage and secure devices while reducing the total cost of ownership. Acer ChromeOS devices free IT from mundane administrative tasks, letting them focus on strategic initiatives that enhance their business.

Overall, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Enterprise Spin 714 are ideal for executives, mobile professionals, and students taking on more advanced apps such as coding and video editing. They provide productivity-boosting technology and immersive visuals while being eco-friendly and adhering to military-grade durability standards.

SM Prime, UPLB team up for sustainability scholarship

SM Prime Holdings Inc. and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) have joined hands to promote sustainable development in the country. Through a scholarship grant, SM Prime aims to assist select students from low-income households in Pasay City to pursue undergraduate degrees in Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (BSHE) and Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) courses, which are geared towards sustainability. The scholarship will provide better employment prospects and help reduce poverty and inequality, which are major obstacles to sustainable development.

UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr. believes that education, especially in sustainability-related fields of studies, plays a significant role in social and economic mobility. He shared his optimism about the partnership, citing how the scholarship will enable more students to pursue their studies in areas related to sustainability such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in education in these areas, they are preparing a new generation of leaders who will have the knowledge and skills to address the complex environmental and social challenges facing our world today.

The partnership between SM Prime and UPLB is a testament to the shared commitment of both institutions towards promoting sustainability and creating a better future for the next generation. SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo said that by supporting the education of would-be scholars, SM Prime hopes to create ripples of social good within families and communities, ultimately contributing to the development of a more sustainable and equitable society.

Aside from enabling students to pursue their education without financial burden, the UPLB chancellor believes that the scholarship can produce competent leaders capable of solving complex environmental and social challenges and create a pipeline of innovative researchers. Fostering collaborations and innovation in sustainability between the academic community and the private sector can lead to new environmentally and socially responsible products, technologies, and services that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.

SM Prime believes that UPLB would be the best partner to support its sustainability initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment while honing new Iskolars ng Bayan leaders committed to knowledge creation and public service.

The SM Prime Sustainability Scholarship is open to students from Pasay City, under UPLB's BSHE and BSF programs, with an annual gross family income of not more than PhP150,000.00. Interested applicants may contact the UPLB OSG +63 49 536 3209 or email at osg.uplb@up.edu.ph. The partnership formed under the scholarship grant continues SM Prime’s pursuit of sustainable development, providing access to quality education for all and creating a pool of proactive human resources who can responsibly carry out and balance the economic, social, and environmental aspects of a society’s sustainable development aspirations.

TCL Takes the Top 2 TV Brand Spot Globally by Making Mini LED Technology Accessible to Millions

Increasing market share through pioneering best-value picture quality and large screen experience for all.

TCL Electronics, a leading brand in consumer electronics and TV manufacturing brand was named the Top 2 TV Brand, Top 1 Android TV, and Top 1 98-inch TV brand according to OMDIA’s Global TV sets Report 2022. TCL is continuously innovating and investing in research and development and making Mini LED TVs more affordable and accessible to consumers.

Building on its success, TCL is now focused on making Mini LED TVs more affordable and accessible to consumers by continuing to innovate and invest in research and development. 

Mini LED is a next-generation screen that offers better contrast, color, and brightness than traditional LCD screens. TCL was the first consumer electronics brand to launch a TV with the Mini LED screen. 

According to the latest data, TCL’s TV business has seen a 75.7% growth in 65+ inch sales year-on-year, accumulating in the brand and rising up the ranks as it continues to make its technology available to more customers. The TV industry witnessed a decline in 2022, with global TV shipments down by 4.8% year-on-year, and global revenue down by 13.2%, leading to fierce competition among the industry’s key players. 

TCL carved out its unique advantage by being the first brand to adopt a value-led Mini LED proposition. This successful approach resulted in TCL’s TV business recording a total of 23.8 million shipments in 2022, going against the global downward trend. 


The World’s First Truly Accessible Mini LED TV 

Realizing the potential of Mini LED technology, in 2019, TCL launched the world’s first Mini LED TV to achieve mass production. TCL’s consumers responded to the advantages of Mini LED technology–thanks to the increase in local dimming zones, producing greater brightness levels than ever before, for better contrast, color, and clarity, and overall enhanced picture quality. Through its strong brand influence and global channel advantages, TCL’s proportion of sales continues to increase with shipments of its Mini LED TVs rising by an impressive 26.8% in 2022. 

Testament to the popularity of TCL’s advancements in Mini LED technology, the brand has received numerous industry accolades. Two of TCL’s XL Collection Mini LED TVs, the TCL 75C935 and TCL 75C835, won CES 2023 Innovation Awards for their innovative ergonomic design and advanced Mini LED display technology, while the TCL 65C835, won the "PREMIUM MINI LED TV 2022-2023" EISA award from the European Imaging and Sound Association for its best-in-class performance. 


TCL Set to Launch Brilliant and Game-Changing TV Series for a Variety of User Scenarios 

TCL Electronics is set to launch a new series of smart TVs designed to cater to a variety of user scenarios. This new series promises to deliver exceptional picture quality, an immersive gaming experience, and big-screen viewing pleasure. With cutting-edge technology and outstanding color expression, these TVs will outperform competitors in the same price range. The gaming TV will offer hardware and software configurations comparable to a PC for a super smooth gaming experience. Additionally, with support for Mini LED, QLED, and AiPQ Processor 5 Ai algorithm, this new series of smart TVs will deliver a full range of picture quality performance. TCL's new series of smart TVs promise to provide exceptional audio-visual quality and software function, making it an ideal choice for avid gamers and movie enthusiasts alike. With TCL’s new series, you can "C the Brilliance" in every scene, immersing yourself in a world of stunning visuals and lifelike colors.  


TCL’s Mini LED Milestones – Making a Play for Category Ownership 

As a relatively new display technology, the greatest value that Mini LED brings to users lies in its ability to pack spectacular image quality in an ultra-thin screen. Achieving such an ultra-thin screen is one of the greatest challenges for manufacturers, as it leaves no gap between the light guide plate (LGP) and the Mini LED, resulting in Zero Optical Distance (referred to as OD 0). To combat this, TCL established it's very own Mini LED & Optical Technology Development Department in 2020, with the sole objective of overcoming this challenge by producing the highest number of backlight LED zones in the industry. After nearly a year of in-depth research, TCL launched the world's first TCL OD Zero Mini LED TV in 2021, with a thickness of just 9.9mm and 1920 dimming zones – offering exceptional picture quality to OLED offerings. 



Creating Mini LED Products That Users Can Afford 

As a brand, TCL is on a mission to make great technology accessible to everyone. Once TCL’s leading R&D team discovered how to make quality Mini LED screens, they set about finding practical ways to produce these at scale. 

The traditionally high cost of Mini LED products is in part due to the increased number of LEDs required. TCL’s research team devised a process to significantly reduce the cost of LED itself, without impacting the uniformity of the overall display. Through the careful design and selection of LEDs, printed circuit boards, and process controls, TCL successfully reduced production costs by more than 70%. 


To discover more about how TCL’s award-winning Mini LED technology and all the latest Mini LED products, visit www.tcl.com.

Low-income families in Cagayan received Medical Care from SM Foundation, Inc.

Medical missions have become an increasingly vital source of support for low-income communities that are hampered by challenges in accessing quality healthcare. These missions not only provide medical care, but they also play a vital role in transforming the lives of individuals and communities. The SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) recognizes the importance of these missions, and it has made it its mission to travel from Luzon to Mindanao to provide free medical care and services to thousands of patients from various hard-pressed communities.

Through the SMFI medical missions, people like Roland Bariuan and Angeline Cacanindin have received free medical care and services that would otherwise be unattainable due to financial constraints. Roland, a tricycle driver in Tuguegarao City, was able to receive free consultation, blood tests, x-rays, and medicines through the SMFI medical mission. These services would have been costly if he had sought them elsewhere, and he would not have been able to afford them. With the assistance extended to him, he had his scheduled checkup without worrying about finances and was even able to put aside money originally allotted for medicine and laboratory tests. As a tricycle driver, he cannot avoid getting sick due to the pollution, and the free checkup and medication from the SMFI medical mission were a significant help.

Angeline, a house helper from Cagayan Valley, brought her youngest daughter to the SMFI medical mission in SM City Cauayan to have her tooth extracted. Her daughter had been suffering from a toothache, which was already interfering with her nutrition and attendance in school. Through the SMFI medical mission, she received free paracetamol, antibiotics, vitamins appropriate for her child's age, and dental hygiene tips from volunteer dentists. The free medical care and services provided by the SMFI medical mission were a lifeline for Angeline and her daughter.

The ongoing medical missions of SMFI provide immediate relief to those in need and a chance for economically disadvantaged individuals like Roland and Angeline to access medical care and resources that are often unavailable or unattainable. These missions help transform the lives of individuals and communities and play a vital role in ensuring that quality healthcare is attainable for all.

Limited-edition HONOR X9a 5G Midnight Black to officially hit stores

Crowd-favorite HONOR X9a 5G now available in Midnight Black, available starting April 20.  

Launched at the opening of HONOR Philippines’ first ever experience store at SM Fairview, HONOR X9a 5G Midnight Black will officially go on sale starting April 20, 2023 in all HONOR stores, kiosks and partner stores nationwide or online at Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.

“Due to extreme demand even three months after its launch, we are happy to bring in the limited-edition HONOR X9a 5G Midnight Black. This new color addition gives more options to our loyal HONOR fans. Still priced at Php 16,990, this indestructible smartphone will be available in-store and online starting April 20,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President. 


New Color, Same Ultra Tough Specs 

Still sporting a 120Hz Premium OLED Curved Display, the HONOR X9a 5G Midnight Black brings users a large screen of 6.67-inch with an impressive screen-to-body ratio of 93%, guaranteeing an immersive viewing experience for all your favorite content. 

An ultra-large 5100mAh battery in a compact body awaits you too. So far, the HONOR X9a 5G is the thinnest and lightest smartphone to feature a battery larger than 5000mAh, which allows it to support up to 2 days of daily use for a truly uninterrupted user experience. With just 30 minutes of charging, the HONOR X9a 5G delivers 12.5 hours of video streaming, sparing users from having to worry about their battery. 

Experience the ultra tough HONOR X9a 5G in the new limited-edition Midnight Black color for only Php 16,990 starting April 20 via all HONOR stores, kiosks, and partner stores or online through Shopee (https://bit.ly/3oh9VGt), Lazada (https://bit.ly/3L0VuyT), and TikTok Shop (https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS8WXk7ow/). 


HONOR fans can also get the HONOR X9a 5G via Home Credit for as low as Php 661 per month without insurance, Php 765 with insurance, and on a 0% interest installment payment. 

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

OPM Stars Shine for Children With Critical Illnesses

When a wish is granted, everything aligns to shine hope, strength, and joy. The Make-A-Wish Philippines Wish Ball, entitled “Where Stars Align”, is set to be an evening just as magical!

On April 29, Saturday, 6:00PM, at The Peninsula Manila Hotel, the Philippines’ brightest music stars – Jamie Rivera, Basil Valdez, and other surprise guests – will come together to help raise funds to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses. 

video to teaser: https://youtu.be/QXBCeQZUMoU

Co-presented by Blogapalooza and Wish FM 107.5, this formal charity gala will be hosted by Teresa Herrera and Rovilson Fernandez. It will feature inspiring stories from wish kids, as well as performances  from Auriz Llorens, Rox Puno, Justin Taller, and Danimei Everett with the Make-A-Wish PH Kids & Genies Choir. In addition, there will be a special Blue Carpet pre-show by hosts Chal Maling and Ryan Tresplacios live on Make-A-Wish Philippines' Facebook page. Guests will also enjoy a special four-course dinner prepared by The Peninsula Manila. 

Every year on April 29, the Make-A-Wish community in over 50 countries celebrate World Wish Day to commemorate the anniversary of the first wish that inspired the creation of the organization more than 40 years ago in Arizona, USA. Make-A-Wish Philippines is celebrating it this year by holding its first ever Wish Ball in the country.

For more information, and to book your tickets, please visit www.wishes.ph, scan the QR codes, or contact 09159573020.

Those who are unable to attend the event may still extend their help by donating online at www.wishes.ph, or making a wish-granting pledge by emailing info@wishes.ph.

Make-A-Wish Philippines is the first and only non-profit wish granting organization in the country. It is an affiliate of Make-A-Wish International, the world’s largest and most respected wish-granting organization. The foundation grants wishes of children with critical illnesses to transform their lives with hope, strength and joy.

Parents, don't Listen to ABBA's "Slipping Through My Fingers"

It was Saturday morning, woke up very early in the morning and while I was writing an article requested by one of my clients, I decided to play some of my favorite songs via Youtube. I grabbed my buds and played one of the suggested vids. I don't know how this song "Slipping Through My Fingers" came on the list because I have never played this song ever since. But the intro caught me, and made me freeze throughout the first stanza:

"Schoolbag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning
Waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile
I watch her go with a surge of that well-known sadness
And I have to sit down for a while."

Tears came flowing freely as I listen to the 4-minute song, because it is ME and my KIDS.

Slipping Through my Fingers is a song by the Swedish band ABBA, written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. The song was first released in 1981 and was featured in the album "The Visitors".

The song is a nostalgic ballad that explores the bittersweet emotions of a parent watching their child grow up and gradually slip away from their grasp. The lyrics describe the mother's feelings of both pride and sadness as she watches her daughter mature and become more independent.

The opening lyrics set the tone for the song: "Schoolbag in hand, she leaves home in the early morning, waving goodbye with an absent-minded smile." The mother watches as her daughter goes off to school, realizing how quickly time has passed and how much her child has grown.

The chorus repeats the phrase "slipping through my fingers all the time" to describe the feeling of the child's youth and childhood slipping away from the mother. The verses then explore specific memories and moments, such as the daughter's first day of school, the mother braiding her hair, and the child's first love.

Overall, the song captures the bittersweet emotions of parenthood, the joy of watching a child grow and mature, and the sadness of realizing that time is fleeting and that children will eventually become adults and lead their own lives.

Parents, don't listen to this song - FEEL it. You'll realize that our kids are growing up so fast that sometimes we can no longer catch up because we want to provide for them and fulfill all our responsibilities for the family. But always find time to make them feel your presence while they are young, spend time with them, hug them, kiss them, say "I Love You" to them.

Migrant Workers Wish Mother’s Day was Celebrated on Same Day Globally

A new survey from WorldRemit, a leading digital remittances company within the Zepz Group, has found that 44 percent of migrant workers wish that Mother’s Day was celebrated on the same day around the world—pointing to the cultural difficulties faced by those who live in a different country to their mother.

Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates across the world, ranging from the second Sunday of February in Norway, to the 14th of May in the Philippines and even to the 15th of October in Malawi.

The multi-country survey was conducted in February with 3,000 participants to understand how migrants celebrate their relationship with their mothers. 


Multiple Mother’s Days 

Mother’s Day is celebrated on different dates across the world. The most popular dates being the second Sunday in May (such as in the United States of America, Australia, and Philippines) and the fourth week of Lent in March (such as in the United Kingdom and Nigeria). 

The survey found that while 95 percent of respondents celebrate Mother’s Day, nearly a quarter (23 percent) agree that it is easy to forget when Mother’s Day is celebrated in their family’s country of origin. 

While the majority of respondents (44%) celebrate Mother’s Day on the day their country of residence celebrates, over a third (35%) of respondents noted that they celebrate Mother’s Day twice a year; recognising the celebratory date in their family’s country of origin, in addition to the country they currently reside in. 

44% of respondents agree that they wish that Mother’s Day was celebrated on the same day around the world. 


The Impact of Mothers 

Mothers and mother figures play a significant role in many people’s lives. Often, they act as a confidante, advisor, friend, and caretaker in one. When asked to describe their mother in three words, top responses from participants included “trustworthy,” “devoted,” “strong,” and “selfless.” 

WorldRemit’s survey found that 97% of respondents agree that their mother has been influential in shaping them as a person. In addition, 97% of respondents agree that their mother had helped them to get to where they are in their lives currently. Finally, 96% of respondents agree that their mother supports them in their life choices. 



Gifting on Mother’s Day 

According to the WorldRemit survey, the most popular way to celebrate Mother’s Day is by sending a gift, which is how 72 percent of respondents would mark the day. Other popular celebrations include eating out and visiting family. 

Flowers were revealed as the most popular gift choice, with 63 percent citing that they planned on giving them on Mother’s Day. On the more practical side, 57 percent of participants said that they would send their mother money instead. 

This Mother’s Day, WorldRemit encourages all migrant workers across the globe to celebrate their mothers or mother figures—be it through a small gift or a written note of appreciation to say “thank you.”

Tupperware Brands makes a big comeback with their Grandest Reunion Party

Tupperware, the iconic kitchen brand, just celebrated its grandest reunion event to date! As Tupperware returns to SM Stores, a new generation will be introduced to the delightful products treasured by their mothers, who in turn will feel nostalgia for the brand that has changed their lives. The "Tupperware Grand Reunion Party: A Homecoming of the One and Only Kitchen Icon" was held on April 15th at The Block, SM North Edsa.

Tupperware has been a staple at every Filipino reunion and other significant events, especially when people bring potluck or when they pack food to bring home. The grand reunion was a celebration of the beloved brand's heritage, innovations, and legacy.

A Pinoy Staple

For 75 years, Tupperware has been designing cutting-edge home and kitchen solutions to help save time, money, space, food, and energy, which are both functional and environmentally responsible. Passed down through generations, the products are trusted companions in the kitchens and homes of millions around the world, and they will continue to be staples for years to come.

Tupperware was introduced in the Philippines in 1966 and has since become a household name, changing the lives of millions of Filipinos through its world-class products and the limitless income opportunities it offers. Today, it is proudly known as Tupperware Brands Philippines to reflect its strong heritage while conveying that it is a multi-brand, multi-category direct sales company. For 57 years, it has continued to change lives with every Tupperware product, with every Tupperware party.

Tupperware continues to innovate to benefit its consumers, partners, and Mother Earth. The brand makes life easier and better through its loved and trusted products while benefiting local communities. It is motivated by knowing that it can positively impact the planet by creating eco-friendly food-storage solutions to keep food fresher for longer periods, by reducing food waste, and facilitating healthy on-the-go food.

In 1946, chemist Earl Tupper created lightweight, non-breakable plastic containers inspired by the seal-tight design of paint cans. Initially, Tupperware products didn't sell well in stores. The products were so innovative that customers needed demonstrations to understand how they worked, thus the birth of Tupperware Parties through Earl Tupper’s partner, Brownie Wise.

The Tupperware Grand Reunion Party

The Tupperware Grand Reunion Party featured strategically placed booths that helped guests have a deeper appreciation and understanding of the amazing array of products on full display. The booths resembled areas in every home where Filipinos spend time with one another or entertain guests and where Tupperware products are usually present. The booths also show how the brand is part of the memories that are made at every gathering.

There were three booths that highlighted Tupperware as a leader in quality, sustainability, and timelessness. As a cutting edge and innovative company, Tupperware values the impact of design - each Tupperware product looks and does more than it seems. The brand has a passion for smart design that it was even tapped by NASA to support their mission to grow vegetables in space!

Tupperware has more than 8,500 functional design and utility patents for its solution-oriented kitchen and home products, with its SEALS as its key differentiation: S - made of high-quality materials that are Safe to use (Food safe and Color Safe), E - Environment friendly, A - Answers needs, L - designed to last a Lifetime, S - Seals are unique and unmatched, each one is designed for a specific use or need. Each product is made with quality materials to be able to keep its promise and provide solutions to every household.

Celebrities who graced the event in the morning included, Antoinette Taus as host, ChefMom RoseBud Velasco as one of the KOLs, and Anna Ramsey who performed 2 song numbers to entertain the audiences. The event continued in the afternoon for the second part of the celebration where more walk-in guests can take a peek of what's in store for #TupperwarebrandsPh in the coming days.

Personal Collection Direct Selling, Inc. becomes the first Filipino-owned large-scale direct selling company to open in Malaysia

Personal Collection (PC), which started with just one product and eight dealers in a small warehouse in Quezon City in 2003, has now become one of the top direct selling companies in the Philippines. It has more than 450 branches and hundreds of thousands of dealers selling hundreds of products in the country alone. Recently, PC expanded to Malaysia and became the first Filipino-owned large-scale direct selling company to open its headquarters on the Malay peninsula.

As Personal Collection celebrates its 20th year, the company continues to promote the "Great Life" by providing livelihood opportunities to Filipino direct sellers and Malaysian entrepreneurs. Personal Collection has begun its global expansion efforts by introducing its best-in-class products to Malaysia's robust economy in the Asia-Pacific region.

During the launch of PC Malaysia, attended by Malaysian entrepreneurs and direct sellers, Personal Collection showcased its bestsellers in the Philippines, such as Tuff Toilet Bowl Cleanser (TBC) and sof & mmmmm Concentrated Fabric Conditioner. The company also unveiled L'Essence, its own essential oils line first introduced in the Malaysian market.

Shortly after the launch, PC Malaysia's managing director, Loi der Liang, received the Selangor Business Excellence Achievement Award from KSI-Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific and Economic Club of Kuala Lumpur at the 2023 Selangor International Economic Summit.

In the Philippines, PC has received prestigious awards for its #GreenLifeGreatLife movement, which raised awareness of the company's products with biodegradable packaging and formula. The company's CSR efforts also involved PC employees and dealers in mangrove and tree planting, as well as coastal cleanups. These initiatives earned PC a Silver Anvil Award for Specialized PR Program: Advocacy Campaign at the 58th Anvil Awards, Circle of Excellence Award for CSR Company of the Year at the 2022 Asia CEO Awards, and Finalist for Marketing Excellence 2022 Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility.

PC Malaysia aims to follow the successful business model of Personal Collection in the Philippines by selling best-in-class products through hardworking dealers so they can experience the "Great Life." The company's vision is to spread the Great Life across the world by offering it to young and old, new and experienced entrepreneurs.

Personal Collection has also recently shifted to biodegradable packaging and formula that are gentle on the environment. The company has built regional depots across the Philippines, moved to a new headquarters, and added hundreds of thousands of direct sellers to its team. For more information on Personal Collection Malaysia, visit https://www.personalcollection.com.my/. To know more about the company, check out https://bit.ly/StoryofPersonalCollection.

Capture your Night Adventures with the New vivo V27 Series 5G, The Aura Portrait Master

When the sun sets, the city comes to life with its majestic lights and lively atmosphere. From coffee to spirited drinks, slow music to electronic beats, you dance the night away with your friends. But the next morning, you struggle to recall the amazing moments from the night before, and your blurry photos don't do them justice.

Capture every moment with the vivo V27 Series, The Aura Portrait Master. This latest addition to vivo's V smartphone line in the Philippines boasts a first-of-its-kind Aura Portrait Algorithm that produces photos of professional, studio-level quality. Whether you're shooting at night or in low-light environments, the vivo V27 Series upgrades the camera flash, sensors, and portrait capabilities to ensure high-quality photos every time.

Light up your aura with the Aura Light, a feature designed specifically for taking portraits in low-light environments. Ordinary camera flashes are not optimized for taking portraits and only light up a limited range around you. The vivo V27 Series' Aura Light illuminates your face and creates even lighting to keep your skin looking refined in low-light environments. The camera automatically adjusts the Aura Light's intensity based on the ambient light, producing clearer facial details without over- or underexposing your face. No need to search for the best spot to take photos - just turn on the Aura Light and let it do the work for you.

The vivo V27 Series' camera is powered by the new Sony IMX766V sensor, which is 59% bigger in effective sensor size and 104% bigger in single-pixel size than its predecessor. The larger sensors allow the camera to intake 145% more light, resulting in brighter and more vibrant images even in low-light conditions. The camera also features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) technology that eliminates jitters and produces clear and authentic colors.

The advanced Portrait Mode is now supported by vivo's Exclusive Portrait Algorithms, ensuring that your subject looks natural and healthy. The AI algorithm coordinates with up to 103 facial points to enhance your subject's appearance without making unrealistic over-enhancements. The Low-Light Portrait feature creates a balance between your subject and the background, adding warm tones and creating a vivid vibe.

The Aura Light, Sony IMX766V sensor, and advanced Portrait Mode combine to create the first-of-its-kind Aura Portrait Algorithm, ensuring that every moment of your night out is captured with stunning details and vibrancy. Don't miss out on any exciting moments - let your best aura shine with the vivo V27 Series, The Aura Portrait Master.

The vivo V27e retails for PHP16,999, while the vivo V27 5G is available for PHP24,999. Both variants can be purchased at all vivo official stores nationwide, as well as on vivo's official website and Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok pages.

Teach your Kids about Jesus this Holy Week with these 5 Lessons from Superbook

Do you want your kids to know more about Jesus this Holy Week season?

Watch the Superbook Holy Week Marathon with your whole family on the Batang Superbook Facebook page LIVE from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, 3:00 PM, and learn these amazing lessons about Jesus this Holy Week. 

• Jesus was baptized even though He didn’t have to. 

Jesus got baptized to fulfill the prophecy that He is the Messiah. In the “John the Baptist” episode, when John baptized Jesus, a dove came over Him and God spoke that He is the Son whom God is well-pleased.

Being baptized is Jesus’ way of fulfilling His role as the obedient and devoted Son of God. Jesus’ obedience to God’s will resulted in the salvation of many people.

• Jesus’ miracles builds faith. 

In the Superbook episode, “Miracles of Jesus”, Jesus healed the sick, calmed the storms, and drove evil spirits away! He did all these impossible things because He wants people to have faith in Him as the Son of God and to help them build their faith muscle.

You can believe that no matter how difficult a challenge can be, Jesus can make things possible.

• Jesus is a humble King. 

In “The Last Supper” episode, Jesus rides a donkey during His triumphant entry to Jerusalem. Later, He washed His disciples' feet. His actions are things that kings never do!

Even though He’s a king, Jesus showed humility. Jesus’ action sets an example for believers to be humble servants just like Him.

We were saved from sin and death by God’s love.

Sin separates people from God, and no one can remove their sins based on their own efforts. Because God loves people so much, He sent Jesus to be the perfect sacrifice for their sins.

Because of what Jesus did, men are saved from eternal death, the consequences of sin. This is God’s perfect love for mankind – taking upon Himself the punishment meant for humans.

• Jesus is alive! 

After three days, Jesus was raised from the dead. Through His death and resurrection, the relationship between God and mankind has been restored.

His resurrection also proved that death is not the end of life and sin has no power over His children anymore. If a person leaves this life, he will spend eternity with Jesus in heaven. Jesus wants to spend eternity with everyone, that’s why He commanded His followers to share the story of His resurrection.

Holy Week is yearly observed to remember God’s great love when He saved mankind from sin through His death and resurrection. This is a great time to go to church to pray and reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross.

Help your kids learn more about the Holy Week through Superbook. Watch the Superbook Holy Week Marathon with the whole family on the Batang Superbook Facebook page! LIVE from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, 3:00 PM.