Why Travel Is Good For Your Mental Health?

Lately, there has been a big push showing that mental health is just as important as physical health. Amidst all the uncertainties we are facing nowadays, it was proved that mental health should be discussed a lot more to ensure that those who are suffering can find somewhere and someone sympathetic to turn to. This is a good news for those people dealing with mental health issues for so long and who have not known how to ask for help. 

Did you know that, there are some things that can be done to improve your mental health just by yourself? Of course it is a must to always seek medical assistance if you are unwell. But if you simply need to take some time out and re-set yourself, travel can be the ideal way to do it. Your mental health will improve in very many ways, and you will come home a different person to when you left. Here’s how travel could help you. 

 

Travel is a Stress-reliever

We all get stressed, and it is actually perfectly normal. Stress is part of life, and can even be good for us because it can mean we are being challenged. Challenges somehow ease boredom and they make us ready and aware of what is going on around us, prepared to deal with any circumstances quickly and efficiently. 

 

However, Chronic Stress is not good for us at all. It can cause all kinds of medical issues, including mental health problems like depression. If you are working in a high octane environment, if you have too much to do but too little time, or if you are feeling overwhelmed with everything that is going on around you, stress could creep up on you under these situations.

If you are feeling more and more unwell each day, you can quickly reduce your stress by traveling. You can literally get away from them all. You will be more relaxed while experiencing new things and you won’t be thinking of what was stressing you at home. By the time you go back to reality, those problems will  seem much smaller and easier to dealt with. 

 

Travel will let you find yourself

Some mental health issues stem from being confused and unsure about exactly who you are and what you want or need in life. Take a break and travel. Immerse, see the beauty around and be one with nature. Even if it is just for a short time, it can help you to learn about yourself and find out what you really want or your purpose in life. Finding and following your TRUE self is so important to be truly happy. Your life will be astounding once you discover the difference of living the life you want instead of what you think is expected. 

 

Travel makes you happier

Just the idea of going on vacation, or taking some time to travel will up your happiness levels. You can get ready to leave by sorting your backpack. It will be worth looking for a lightweight, safe travel backpack, booking flights and saving up money.  

 

This excitement and happiness will continue when you are actually aware from home as well. You don’t have to go into work, and you can do the things that make you smile, whether that is lounging by a pool with a good book or trekking through the rainforest on an adventure. 

Being happier is something that is rather addictive, and you could find that once you leave your travels behind you and come home again, you try even harder to be happy, and do the things that you enjoy, to keep that feeling going. 

Amid the Pandemic, Aesthetic Business Thrives with the Launch of Its 11th Clinic, Including Its First Mall Branch

Passion and dreams fuel endless progress.

Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center consistently demonstrates this commitment with the launch of their 11th clinic in Dasmarinas, Cavite, and notably, their inaugural branch within a mall establishment, SM Market Mall.

The Tecson Siblings, the family that owns this chain of aesthetic and wellness centers, are thrilled to commence clinic operations and cater to all Caviteños with accessible yet premium treatments and services.

“We are thrilled that the best is yet to come, for we believe that nothing is more surprising than bringing out the best version of ourselves. Join us in this unfolding - to be bold, beautiful, and best. Thank you for sharing this momentous event with us,” Krystal Tecson-Garalde, Chief Executive Officer of Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center mentioned in her speech during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Top brand management, clinic staff, family, and friends attended this momentous event last January 13 - a milestone indeed, as most of the event attendees agreed on.

Ms. Tecson-Garalde stressed the value of collective efforts, passion, and dedication in achieving this milestone. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of creating a safe place for clients and employees, which helps Dear Self become one of the trusted brands in the metro when it comes to aesthetics and wellness.

“We also take a beautiful walk through our next pages of success, for we see the beauty in helping and making our employees and clients realize the path not only to self-care but also to self-love,” Ms. Tecson-Garalde mentioned.

In the afternoon, the ceremonial ribbon-cutting commenced with a heartfelt prayer. After the top management delivered their meaningful speeches, snacks were served to all attendees.

Unbelievable Journey

Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center is relatively one of the newest players in the industry. They will celebrate their fourth year in 2024, but the achievement they constantly attain is something incredible to the branch owners and top management.

They took a major risk when they started running the brand during the pandemic. As the saying goes, only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go. What Dear Self has achieved now and continuously attains is the result of taking the first step during one of the riskiest times to start a business.

Mr. Kenneth Tecson, Chief Marketing Officer of Dear Self, strongly believes that the brand’s business values and the people who started it created a wide chance to achieve this success.

“At the core of Dear Self Aesthetic Center lies a dedication to encouraging self-love, with a firm belief in the unique individuality of each person. Our aim at Dear Self is to instill in all of you the confidence to recognize and appreciate the incredible individuals you are, encouraging the embrace of your beauty from the inside out,” Mr. Kenneth Tecson said.

On the other hand, brand optimization has been part of their brand in 2023, which according to Dear Self’s Chief Financial Officer was a really difficult business instance.

“Last year was a difficult one for us. It was two months ago nung inopen ni Dear Self ang next chapter ng journey niya. No one knows kung ano yung ibig sabihin nun that time na nirelaunch natin ang isa sa mga old brands natin. Pero today I am very proud that Dear Self is going inside SM, level up na tayo!” he proudly expressed.

The whole team also mentioned their different plans this year and in the coming years. New treatments and services with the latest and top-of-the-line machines, achieving further success through nearby provinces and Visayas expansion were some of the goals mentioned.

“New milestones and new successes, these are our continuous goals for the brand,” Mr. Christian Tecson ended.

The new Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center branch is located inside the new SM Market Mall, the first public-private partnership between a City Government and SM Prime Holdings that features a vertical wet and dry market development complemented by mall facilities.

Visit their social media pages to know more!

https://www.tiktok.com/@dearselfaesthetic.center https://www.instagram.com/dearselfaesthetic/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_PjtJko9-eXk1stBnEpX7g https://www.facebook.com/dearselfaestheticandwellness https://www.facebook.com/dearselfcavite

The Dangers of Side Effects Presented as Main Effects

A simple mistake could unnecessarily complicate matters for patients. In the medical field, the precise use of words is crucial. This field is replete with jargon that is often too technical for the general public to easily comprehend, making it essential to express them in layman’s terms.

A notable example is the confusion between the terms "side effect" and "main effect." These terms are frequently interchanged or used in lieu of the other, a practice that is not only incorrect but also hazardous to people's health.

A side effect of any substance refers to the outcome beyond the main or primary action intended by the prescribing physician. The doctor anticipates this additional consequence.

For example, a patient may not be aware of the side effect of unwanted hair growth on other parts of the body while using the vasodilator drug called Minoxidil to treat hypertension. The physician, however, is well aware of this, along with other potential implications such as burning or irritation of the eyes, itching, and redness or irritation at the treated area. Generally, doctors advise patients to overlook side effects unless they are serious, and they often inform patients about their likelihood.

However, not all side effects are advantageous; some can be detrimental. They are often utilized as a therapeutic benefit in the pharmaceutical industry. Take Minoxidil, for instance, which was initially developed to treat high blood pressure. People taking it reported an unusual side effect: hair began to grow on various parts of their bodies. In this case, the negative aspect of the drug is managed and utilized for a beneficial and therapeutic effect judiciously. It's worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the prescription of a two percent (2%) Minoxidil topical solution for hair loss in men in 1988 and for women in 1992.

On the other hand, an adverse effect is identified as an outcome where the reaction occurs beyond the main and intended action of a medicine. Neither the physician nor the patient is aware of it as a consequence of taking such treatment. It can occur simply due to incorrect dosage. Unfortunately, this is very harmful as it can worsen the prognosis of the disease. Occasionally, if the adverse effect is too severe, there might be a need for hospitalization.

Just like Sildenafil Citrate, a medication used for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Common adverse reactions (≥ 2%) include headache, flushing, dyspepsia, abnormal vision, nasal congestion, back pain, myalgia, nausea, dizziness, and rash. Emergency treatment is necessary if an erection lasts over four hours. Patients should cease Sildenafil Citrate and seek medical care if a sudden decrease or loss of hearing and vision in one or both eyes occurs.

Due to the potentially fatal nature of side effects and adverse effects requiring immediate reversal or antidote, it is crucial to exercise utmost caution in avoiding their interchangeability with the main effects during the prescription process. Lives of patients are at stake.

It's ironic that those seeking treatment for ailments or to prolong their lives may become sicker or tragically end up six feet underground due to medical errors. Hence, it's prudent to address health conditions like hair loss naturally, especially with NOVUHAIR, offering safe and natural effects.

With 19 natural ingredients, primarily standardized herbal extracts, essential oils, and co-factor nutrients, NOVUHAIR not only helps prevent hair loss but also stimulates the growth of the "crowning glory." Opt for natural alternatives instead of chemical-based topical scalp solutions. Choose NOVUHAIR!

NOVUHAIR is available at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. For more information, visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page, Novuhair Official, and follow on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural. You may also order online through lazada.com.ph and regaloservice.com.

#Novuhair #ChooseNatural

Embrace a Fresh Skincare Era in 2024 with Proven and Trusted Ingredients

As we step into 2024, your skin might still be recovering from the aftermath of a hectic year-end – the holiday rush, continuous parties, and demanding school or work deadlines. Now, seize the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate and give your skin the glow it truly deserves.

This year, beauty experts anticipate that proven rockstar ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide will take center stage. Recognized for their antioxidant activity, skin tone evening, and skin barrier improvement, these ingredients have earned the endorsement of celebrities such as Korean superstar Jisoo of BLACKPINK, celebrity makeup artist Lei Ponce, and supermodels like Kaia Gerber.

For an effortless journey to reveal your inner glowing mochi-mochi skin, turn to the leading Japanese skincare brand, Hada Labo. The Premium Whitening line from Hada Labo seamlessly incorporates the undeniable benefits of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, addressing concerns such as skin tone unevenness and dark spots.

Explore the Hada Labo Premium Whitening Face Lotion, a powerhouse product harnessing the hydrating prowess of hyaluronic acid. This naturally occurring substance, capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, draws moisture from the environment to keep your skin consistently moisturized. The result is a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a smoother complexion.

Enhance this hydration power with Hada Labo Premium Whitening moisturizers, designed to brighten skin using niacinamide. Niacinamide works by strengthening the skin’s natural protective barrier, defending against harmful pollutants, toxins, and sunlight. These moisturizers also feature skin-friendly ingredients like alpha-arbutin to address and prevent dark spots, and vitamin C to stimulate collagen production, combat free radicals, and boost overall skin radiance.

Choose from two options based on your skin needs. The Premium Whitening Water Cream combines the classic ingredients and brightening effects of the Face Lotion with a light, burden-less texture that effortlessly absorbs into the skin, leaving it revitalized without any heavy residue. Meanwhile, the Premium Whitening Water Gel is ideal for those with oily/combination skin, thanks to its mix of natural royal jelly extract, hamamelis extract, and herbal fermented factors that revitalize while controlling oil.

Ready for your new and improved skincare era? Begin unveiling that inner glowing mochi-mochi skin today with Hada Labo Premium Whitening line. Visit your nearby Watsons or The Mentholatum Company’s official stores on Shopee or Lazada.

For more beauty and skincare tips, explore hadalabo.com.ph and follow @HadaLaboPH on Facebook and Instagram.

10 Healthy Snacks for Kids to Enjoy in the Summer

As the summer sun beckons, children tend to embrace outdoor activities with heightened enthusiasm compared to the more structured school year. With increased physical activity, it becomes essential to provide them with regular and wholesome snacks to sustain their energy levels and prevent unhealthy cravings that may arise when hunger strikes.

To ensure that your kids are nourished and energized, consider incorporating these 10 healthy snacking ideas into their routine:

1. Watery Fruits with String Cheese: Indulge in refreshing watery fruits like melon and berries paired with string cheese for a delightful and nutritious combination.

   
   

2. Yogurt: A carton of yogurt provides a rich source of probiotics and essential nutrients to support your child's overall well-being.

   
   

3. Turkey Jerky with Fruit: Opt for turkey jerky as a protein-packed snack that helps replenish sodium losses from sweating, and pair it with your child's favorite fruits.

   
   

1. Nutrient-rich Protein Bars: Choose protein bars made with nuts, fruits, seeds, and minimal added sugar for a convenient and satisfying on-the-go snack.

   
   

2. Whole-Grain Turkey Sandwich: Half a turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread offers a balance of carbohydrates and proteins, keeping your child fueled and satisfied.

   
   

3. Hummus with Baby Carrots: Embrace the goodness of hummus paired with baby carrots for a tasty and fiber-rich snacking option.

   
   

4. Mixed Nuts: A handful of mixed nuts provides a crunch along with essential nutrients like healthy fats and proteins.

   
   

5. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter: Combine the sweetness of apple slices with the richness of peanut butter for a wholesome and enjoyable snack.

   
   

6. Celery Sticks: Simple yet effective, celery sticks are a crisp and hydrating option that pairs well with various dips.

   
   

7. Air-Popped Popcorn: For a light and crunchy treat, air-popped popcorn is a low-calorie option that kids are sure to enjoy.

   
   

While providing these nutritious snacks, it's crucial not to overlook the importance of keeping your kids well-hydrated. Water is an excellent choice, and adding a splash of flavor may encourage increased consumption. Sports drinks can be considered for active kids, or infuse water with fresh fruit for a naturally flavored alternative. Homemade popsicles using diluted fruit juice or sports drinks can also be a creative and hydrating option.

Amidst the joy of outdoor activities, it's vital to address food safety considerations. When enjoying healthy snacks outdoors, follow these guidelines to safeguard your family from foodborne illnesses:

1. Use a Cooler: Keep cold foods stored at 40 °F or below in a cooler to prevent bacterial growth. Minimize opening the cooler to retain its cold temperature.

   
   

2. Avoid Cross-Contamination: Securely wrap raw meat, poultry, or seafood to prevent their juices from contaminating raw foods like fruits and vegetables.

   
   

3. Clean Produce: Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before packing them to ensure cleanliness, including those with inedible skins or rinds.

When dealing with leftovers, adhere to the "2-2-4 rule" for optimal food safety:

• Two hours: Safely leave foods at room temperature or out of the refrigerator.

• Two inches: Store leftovers in shallow containers, no more than two inches thick, for even and quick cooling.

  
  

• Four days: Consume refrigerated leftovers within four days to ensure freshness and avoid potential health risks.

By integrating these healthy snacking ideas and adhering to food safety practices, you can ensure that your kids enjoy a summer filled with energy, nourishment, and safety.

Strategic Alliance: Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala Joins Forces with Philippine Veterans Bank for Enhanced Cash Withdrawal Services

Palawan Group of Companies, the Philippines' leading provider of money remittance and pawning services, proudly announces a strategic alliance with the esteemed Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB). Renowned for its unwavering dedication to serving veterans, their families, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines community, PVB brings a rich legacy of financial excellence to this collaboration.

This groundbreaking partnership opens up new avenues for PVB depositors, loyal clients of the Palawan Group of Companies (known as sukis), and other BancNet ATM cardholders. They will now benefit from an expanded range of services, including convenient cash withdrawals using BancNet ATM cards. Initially, this service will be available at over 300 company-owned Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala branches, ensuring swift access to funds for a diverse array of financial transactions.

PVB depositors can leverage this collaboration by utilizing the extensive network of Palawan branches strategically located near residential areas. The flexibility to visit Palawan branches during holidays and weekends enhances accessibility, providing added convenience for their financial needs. This partnership enables ATM cardholders to perform cash withdrawals using Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals, commonly employed for payroll and regular cash withdrawals, as well as pension and 4Ps payouts. Both companies are committed to expanding the number of branches with POS terminals in the future.

Beyond the logistical benefits, the collaboration between the Palawan Group of Companies and PVB is grounded in a shared commitment to core values such as service, honor, and family. The Palawan Group of Companies has a longstanding mission to facilitate financial transactions that bridge families and friends, catering to their daily needs, funding education, assisting with medical requirements, and supporting dreams such as home ownership and business ventures. PVB, with its enduring dedication to veterans, their families, and the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines community, has forged a legacy of financial excellence.

The official contract signing ceremony, a momentous occasion, took place at the head office of the Philippine Veterans Bank. Key executives from both organizations were present to commemorate the occasion. Representing the Palawan Group of Companies were Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Cash Management Solutions Director, Rona Juan, Key Accounts Manager, and Missy Baldemor, B2B Department Head. Attendees from the Philippine Veterans Bank included Renato Claravall, President and Acting CEO, Geraldine Romano, VP & Head of Branch Banking Group Sales Center, Charina Balanquit, FVP and Chief Digital Marketing Officer, and Julius Marquez, AVP and South Luzon Area Head.

Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Cash Management Solutions Director, expressed the significance of the partnership, stating, "Our partnership with the Philippine Veterans Bank is rooted in shared values of service, honor, and family. Together, we're committed to enhancing customer service, ensuring convenient access to funds, and ultimately, making a positive impact on the lives we touch. This collaboration embodies our dedication to supporting dreams, ambitions, and livelihoods."

Renato Claravall highlighted the importance of the collaboration for PVB, stating, "This service, in partnership with Palawan Pawnshop, will allow Veterans Bank to expand its network and customer touchpoints through the use of technology-based innovations. It will also enable the Bank to serve our clients in areas where we do not have branches, especially our veterans and their families."

This partnership aligns seamlessly with Palawan Express Pera Padala's commitment to enhancing accessibility and convenience for its valued sukis. The introduction of Cash Withdrawal services in these branches marks a significant stride towards improving financial inclusivity and enhancing the overall customer experience for Palawan sukis and depositors of the Philippine Veterans Bank. As both entities continue to evolve, this collaboration promises to be a beacon of financial empowerment and inclusivity for the communities they serve.

Acer Unveils Upgraded Predator Helios Gaming Laptops Featuring Intel Core 14th Gen Processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPUs

Acer has recently unveiled its latest gaming laptop lineup, featuring the upgraded models of the Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16. Additionally, Acer introduced the new Predator Helios Neo 18 gaming laptop and made significant enhancements to the Predator Helios Neo 16. These cutting-edge laptops boast the latest Intel Core 14th gen processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPUs, incorporating DLSS 3.5 technology and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus for unparalleled AI performance and graphics acceleration.

The NVIDIA RTX Laptop GPUs, equipped with specialized AI Tensor Cores, bring unmatched AI capabilities to the gaming laptops, enhancing performance in creative applications, productivity, and gaming. These GPUs, based on the ADA Lovelace architecture, deliver breakthrough performance and AI-enhanced graphics through DLSS 3.5 technology, providing full ray tracing capabilities. With support for more than 500 popular games and applications, including titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2, gamers can expect a riveting gaming experience.

The Predator laptops also feature Microsoft's Copilot in Windows 11, along with a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to AI-powered task assistance. As an added bonus, they come with one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, offering access to a vast library of high-quality PC games.

For gamers seeking a competitive edge, the Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16 laptops offer captivating Mini LED panel options, a patented MagKey 3.0 swappable mechanical switch for reduced key travel and response time, and Wi-Fi 7 compatibility for lightning-fast network speeds.

The newly introduced Helios Neo gaming laptops, available in 18 and 16-inch versions, combine powerful components and stunning graphics on WQXGA displays. Featuring an abyssal-black anodized cover with encrypted codes, these laptops invite gamers to decipher hidden messages and explore the Predator Verse.

All these gaming laptops leverage advanced technologies to enhance user experiences. The 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D fan technology keeps the devices cool during intense gaming sessions, while Acer's PurifiedVoice 2.0 AI-noise reduction technology eliminates unwanted background noise during communication. The speakers, equipped with DTS:X Ultra, deliver immersive audio experiences for gaming, chatting, or streaming.

James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks at Acer Inc., expressed excitement about the new Predator Helios gaming laptop lineup, emphasizing the combination of performance, advanced thermal capabilities, and brilliant displays. Roger Chandler, VP & GM Enthusiast PC & Workstation at Intel, commended Acer's advanced cooling technologies, which complement the new Intel Core 14th Gen HX-Series processors, providing an optimal gaming and creative experience.

The Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16 laptops, featuring up to Intel Core i9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPUs, deliver outstanding performance for demanding games and software. The laptops' displays, available in 16 and 18-inch options, offer rapid 250 Hz refresh rates, 1000 nits luminosity, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for exceptional visual experiences. Customizable RGB lighting effects, MagKey 3.0 swappable mechanical switches, and advanced sensory technologies further enhance the gaming experience.

The Helios Neo 18 and Helios Neo 16 laptops, targeted at more casual and entry-level esports players, feature Intel Core i9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPUs. These laptops provide smooth AI-driven graphic enhancements, accelerated system performance, and impressive visuals on WQXGA IPS displays with 240 Hz refresh rates. Additional features include dynamic lighting customization, AI-enhanced video conferencing tools, DTS:X Ultra surround sound, and Intel Killer DoubleShot Pro for lag-free connections.

In summary, Acer's latest Predator Helios gaming laptops offer a comprehensive range of features, combining top-tier performance, innovative technologies, and striking designs to cater to the diverse needs of gamers, from enthusiasts to casual players.

Jackie Chan Appointed as HONOR's Latest Year of the Dragon Ambassador

In a significant move to kick off the New Year, HONOR, the leading smartphone brand in China, has officially appointed Jackie Chan as the Year of the Dragon Ambassador. The announcement was made during the launch event of the HONOR Magic6 series and HONOR Porsche Design.

HONOR, known for its innovative approach to technology, has consistently aimed to connect with a broader consumer base. This has been evident through their past New Year-themed activities, services, and benefits. This year, the company went above and beyond by orchestrating a magical New Year's Eve light show at the Taiyuan LIFE store. This visually stunning event seamlessly combined modern technology with traditional architecture, creating a feast for the eyes. The intention was clear – to bridge the gap between technology and art, and to bring together elements of both the classics and the future, setting the tone for consumers as they stepped into 2023.

On New Year's Eve, HONOR took another bold step by road-testing the HONOR 100 series smartphones, equipped with SLR-level photo cameras. This move aimed to assist customers in capturing breathtaking New Year's moments with top-notch photography capabilities.

The choice of Jackie Chan as the Year of the Dragon Ambassador holds deep symbolism. The Dragon, associated with high-ranking status, aligns perfectly with HONOR's commitment to excellence and innovation. Jackie Chan, a renowned and award-winning actor, embodies the stature of a Dragon and possesses a heart that consistently pursues excellence. The decision to introduce him as the brand ambassador reflects not only his celebrity status but also his alignment with HONOR's values.

Looking ahead, HONOR has exciting plans in collaboration with Jackie Chan as the Year of the Dragon Ambassador. The partnership is expected to bring forth a series of engaging activities for HONOR fans and tech enthusiasts in China. This strategic move not only reinforces HONOR's commitment to its consumer base but also positions the brand at the intersection of technology, entertainment, and cultural significance.

For those eager to stay updated on the latest developments and announcements from HONOR, the company's social media platforms offer an avenue for exciting news. Interested individuals can visit HONOR Philippines’ Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/), and TikTok Shop (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines) for the latest updates. Additionally, HONOR's complete list of retail stores can be explored at https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

As HONOR welcomes Jackie Chan as the Dragon Year Ambassador, the stage is set for a year filled with technological advancements, artistic endeavors, and thrilling engagements for fans and enthusiasts alike. This collaboration not only signifies a union of a global icon with a leading technology brand but also represents a fusion of tradition and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry.

Shang presents 18th Spring Film Festival: Enjoy free screenings of epic Chinese films at Red Carpet Cinema from Jan. 23-30

Shangri-La Plaza, recognized as the hub of world cinema in the Philippines, is ushering in the new year with an exciting lineup of film festivals, arts and cultural events, and collaborations with various embassies. Kicking off this year's festivities is the beloved Spring Film Festival, returning for its 18th year at the Red Carpet Cinema from January 23 to 30.

In collaboration with the Ateneo Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, Ateneo Celadon, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and with unwavering support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, the 18th Spring Film Festival goes beyond being a mere cultural exchange. It aims to provide Filipinos with a profound understanding of Chinese culture and broaden their knowledge about one of the world’s largest film industries.

The festival features notable films, including the gripping action thriller "The Captain" by renowned Hong Kong director Andrew Lau. Based on the real-life incident of Sichuan Airlines Flight 8633, where a windshield shatters abruptly after take-off, the film portrays the remarkable efforts of a strong-willed captain, played by "Grand Slam" award-winning actor Zhang Hanyu, to perform one of the most significant miracles in aviation history.

Another highlight is "Looking Up," a poignant tale directed by veteran Chinese actor Deng Chao. Stranded in space, an astronaut draws strength from his enduring connection with his father. The film was showcased at prestigious film festivals such as the 2019 Busan International Film Festival and the 32nd Tokyo International Film Festival, winning Best Film at the 11th Macau International Movie Festival.

The animated Sino-US co-production "White Snake" by Amp Wong and Zhao Ji, based on a popular Chinese folk tale, tells the story of a white snake yearning for the human experience. The film explores the challenges faced by the star-crossed lovers when the snake magically transforms into a woman and marries a scholar.

Enter the fantasy world of "Legend of the Demon Cat" directed by influential Chinese auteur Chen Kaige. The film follows poet Bai Letain and monk Kukai as they investigate the death of the emperor’s concubine, complicated further by the appearance of a demon cat wreaking havoc in their city.

Thriller and mystery enthusiasts can immerse themselves in "Full River Red," a period film by award-winning director Zhang Yimou. Set in the Southern Song dynasty, the movie explores a murder mystery, delving into themes of betrayal and patriotism. As one of China’s highest-grossing films in 2023, this dark comedy promises a captivating cinematic experience.

The festival concludes with the riveting disaster film "The Bravest," directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Tony Chan and starring Chinese A-lister Huang Xiaoming. The film depicts the struggles of Chinese firefighters as they battle to contain a massive fire following an oil pipeline explosion, inspired by the real-life Xingang Port oil spill incident that made headlines in China.

Beyond the cinematic offerings, the 18th Spring Film Festival reintroduces the Chinese Painting Workshop on January 27, 2024, at 2 pm in the Grand Atrium. Master Fidel M. Sarmiento, President of the Art Association of the Philippines, will lead the workshop, known for his past successful art sessions at Shangri-La Plaza. Mall visitors can also enjoy an exhibit showcasing intricately made fans and scrolls.

Additionally, the East Atrium hosts "Nihao, China," a special photo exhibit organized by the Embassy of China in the Philippines and Chinatown TV. Running throughout the film festival, the exhibit features iconic landmarks and landscapes across China, diverse ways to celebrate the Chinese New Year on February 10, and fortune predictions and readings per zodiac animal for the Year of the Dragon.

Embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Chinese cinema and rich culture at the 18th Spring Film Festival, taking place from January 23 to 30 at Shangri-La Plaza. Stay updated on festival highlights and make inquiries by following Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.