Tuesday, June 10, 2025

OPPO Releases 2024 Sustainability Report, Reaching its Climate Target Two Years Earlier than Planned

OPPO has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, marking its fifth consecutive year of publishing the annual report. OPPO announces in the report that the company has reached the peak of carbon emissions across its own operations in 2022, two years ahead of its original climate target. As a global technology company with operations spanning over 70 countries and regions, OPPO ranks as the world’s fourth largest smartphone brand for four consecutive years. The report also outlines OPPO’s efforts and achievements in building a more inclusive and sustainable future by focusing on the following five areas: virtuous innovation, environmental protection, ecosystem engagement, operations and compliance, and caring for employees. ‌ Driven by its brand renewal – “Make Your Moment”, OPPO will propel sustainability forward to create meaningful impact through green innovation and responsible technology.

Making its Operation and Products Greener BOLD 

Following its 2023 commitment to achieving carbon peak by 2024 and carbon neutral by 2050 across its own operations, OPPO has been actively exploring new models for reducing emission intensity. Many initiatives have shown results, with OPPO's operational carbon emissions falling in both 2023 and 2024. OPPO achieved a 3.2% year-on-year reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions in 2024, equivalent to the annual sequestration capacity of about 514,320 mature trees. By mobilizing its supply chain partners, OPPO reduced Scope 3 emissions by 9.3% compared to the previous year.

Beyond carbon reduction efforts, OPPO also implements green management practices across the entire lifecycle of its products. In 2024, OPPO implemented lightweight packaging design across its entire smartphone product line, reducing paper consumption by 10 tons per million units—equivalent to preserving approximately 200 trees. The company also adopts recycled materials made from plant residues such as sugarcane and bamboo to replace traditional paper materials. In Europe, the proportion of recycled material content in mobile phone box packaging increased from 45% to 55%. Furthermore, OPPO integrates innovative engineering solutions to improve the durability of its products. The OPPO A3 Pro, for example, uses Damage-proof 360° Armour Body to improve drop protection and enhance everyday durability. 

OPPO implements green management practices across the lifecycle of its products. 
 

Virtuous Innovation Simplifies Daily Lives BOLD 

OPPO maintains technology and innovation as a strategic priority, with a global portfolio of over 113,000 patent applications, with 91% of them being invention patents. Driven by its brand mission "Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World", OPPO is committed to making technology accessible to everyone. OPPO has also introduced AI functions across its entire smartphone product line, bringing over 100 AI features to 50 million users worldwide. Through its commitment to inclusive innovation, OPPO has developed accessibility features including real-time speech-to-text conversion, content magnification, and adaptive color correction, empowering users with hearing or visual impairments to fully engage with digital technology.

Health is another area where OPPO is leveraging its extensive resources and innovation to create more user-centric products and experiences. OPPO smartwatches integrate the proprietary “Health Insights” feature, which uses sensor data and AI algorithms to monitor vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, and sleep in real time. Combined with temperature change analysis, sleep quality analysis, and other features, the OPPO smartwatches provide users with personalized health risk evaluation and suggestions. Notably, OPPO’s AI-powered blood pressure classification algorithm enables continuous, unobtrusive hypertension risk assessment – particularly for young/middle-aged essential hypertension cases. This constitutes the world’s largest real-world study on unobtrusive blood pressure risk prediction.

OPPO health management toolkit

Engaging with Local Communities as Corporate Citizen BOLD 

In 2024, OPPO donated more than 450 million RMB to social and public welfare organizations, implementing a range of initiatives in areas such as environment, culture, sports and education that help to build more sustainable communities.

In collaboration with Discovery Channel, OPPO has launched the Culture in a Shot Initiative since 2024, which aims to showcase the cultural diversity through imaging technology. With its theme "Portraits of Legacy" in 2024 and “Celebrate the Moment” in 2025, the initiative spotlights inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, and stories of festivals as well as celebrations across 15 countries. In 2024, OPPO also partnered with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to donate 1,000 OPPO tablets, supporting youth education and cultural development in Africa and Asia.

Through its partnership with Discovery Channel, OPPO is celebrating unique cultural diversity around the world

As the Official Smartphone Product Partner of the UEFA Champions League, OPPO has been investing in the development of football culture both on and off the pitch. Through programs like local pitch renovations, equipment donations, and professional training courses, OPPO is providing the support and resources for young footballers from countries including Brazil, Egypt, and Mexico to pursue their football dreams and reach their potential.

Guided by its vision of becoming a sustainable company that contributes to a better world, OPPO will continue to advance sustainable development through technological innovation, creating a resilient technological ecosystem with global partners. Learn more about OPPO's sustainability journey in the 2024 OPPO Sustainability Report.‌

Monday, June 9, 2025

Boost Your Business with LBC BOSS: Discounted Shipping for Online Sellers

(Photo from LBC)

LBC Express, the Philippines trusted logistics and money services provider, officially launches LBC BOSS (Bulk Order Sulit Sending), a new shipping program built to support the growing community of online sellers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.

The initiative underscores LBC’s continued commitment to uplift Filipino entrepreneurs, offering up to 60% off shipping rates, starting with a minimum of 15 parcels per month. Members also gain access to free doorstep pick-up, dedicated customer support, and exclusive business perks tailored to their needs.

(Photo from LBC)

“Filipinos have always been entrepreneurial — from traditional markets to today’s digital platforms,” said Oliver L. Valentin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Philippine Branch Operations at LBC Express Inc.

“LBC BOSS was built to empower that spirit. It is a program made specifically for the modern Filipino seller — the ones building their own brands from home, pursuing dreams through hard work, and serving their communities with heart. LBC is here to support them with the tools, savings, and reliability they deserve,” he added. 

With the steady rise of e-commerce, social selling, and marketplace platforms, LBC BOSS comes at a pivotal moment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The program reflects LBC’s continued commitment from serving Filipinos overseas to championing local entrepreneurs as they build, scale, and thrive.

Whether shipping curated fashion pieces, handcrafted goods, baked treats, or skincare essentials, sellers can rely on LBC BOSS as a partner that understands both the speed and demands behind every small business.

As LBC approaches its 75th anniversary, the launch of LBC BOSS reflects the company’s enduring mission to move lives, uplift communities, and deliver value beyond logistics.

Ready to boost your business? Sign up and become an LBC BOSS today! 

To learn more, visit LBC Express’ official website or follow their social media pages (Instagram | Facebook) for the latest updates.

Spoil Dad This Father's Day: The Best Gifts at SM Center Sangandaan

Let’s be real—Father’s Day gift shopping can feel like solving a riddle wrapped in an enigma and tied with a slightly askew necktie. How do you say “thank you” to the man who taught you how to ride a bike, fix a faucet, and (let’s admit it) kill a cockroach with ninja-like precision?

This year, SM Center Sangandaan makes it easier—and a lot more fun—with a lineup of thoughtful, useful, and straight-up cool gift ideas that’ll make Dad smile like it’s his birthday and Christmas rolled into one. Whether your dad is the sentimental type, the sporty one, or the low-key tech whiz, here’s a handy guide to great gifts you can grab under one roof:

A Gift of Memories. For the dad who’s always ready to say, “Let’s take a picture,” even when you’re mid-bite—Photoline has just the thing. Grab the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 for your gadget-loving dad who enjoys capturing action-packed adventures, or surprise him with the Instax Mini 41 if he's into instant keepsakes. Either way, you’re gifting him memories that last way beyond a filter.

A Gift of Time.  Because even the busiest dads always find time for family, give him something that honors his timeless love: a classic or trendy new piece from Unisilver. It’s more than a watch—it’s a reminder that every minute spent with him is golden.

A Gift of Fashion and Fitness. Is your dad still doing jumping jacks in the living room while watching reruns of 80s and 90s action films? Fuel his fitness routine and style game with workout-ready gear from Penshoppe—think rubber shoes, dri-fit shirts, and comfy shorts that say, “Yes, I still got it.”

A Gift of Scent-sibility. Either a new scent or his signature scent will add zest to his special day. Check out scents at Bench. Sometimes, all it takes is the right scent to bring back good memories or turn heads at the next family gathering. Head to Bench and find the perfect fragrance—whether it’s his all-time favorite or a fresh new signature.

A Gift of Cool. For the dad who appreciates good sound (and possibly has a secret playlist of 80s rock), the Doquas headphones are a game-changer. These babies pack 52 hours of battery life, crystal-clear audio, plush comfort, and a built-in mic for those WFH calls or jamming to his favorite tracks. Bonus: He can finally stop borrowing yours.

Whatever kind of dad you’ve got—techie, sporty, sentimental, or all of the above—there’s something at SM Center Sangandaan that’ll make him feel like the MVP he is. Swing by, browse around, and pick out something great (or maybe a few great somethings). After all, a little gift goes a long way when it comes from the heart—and from SM.

Stay updated on the latest Father’s Day deals and happenings by following SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook. Because when it comes to showing up for Dad, this mall knows how to deliver.

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Harmony in Details: Toshiba Launches Japandi Series & Welcomes New Takumi Masters

Concepcion Industrial Corporation (CIC) Executives, Toshiba Lifestyle International Executives, and Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines Takumi Masters, Masters of Excellence, and Experts graced the Toshiba Dealer Convention Gala. In the photo are (from left) Chief Executive Officer of CIC Mr. Ariel Fermin, Chef and Owner of Mireia Dining Mr. Mark Dee, Chairman and President of CIC Mr. Raul Joseph Concepcion, Chief Communications Officer of CIC Mr. Rafael Hechanova Jr., President of Toshiba Lifestyle International Mr. Lewis Fu, President of Toshiba Lifestyle Asia Pacific Region Mr. Zeal Jiang, Takumi Master of Progressive Cuisine Chef Josh Boutwood, Editor and Stylist Ms. Marj Ramos, Owner of Kasa Palma Chef Aaron Isip; CEO of Happy Skin, BLK, and Seoul White Korea Ms. Jacqe Yuengtian-Gutierrez, Takumi Master of Soulful Living Ms. Stephanie Zubiri, Founder and Director of JJ Acuña / Bespoke Studio Hong Kong and Manila Mr. JJ Acuña, Principal Designer of Moss Design House Ms. Cyndi Fernandez-Beltran, Takumi Master of Harmonious Sound Mr. Gerard Salonga, Co - Founder & President of SoFA Design Institute Ms. Loralee Soong, Takumi Master of Visionary Style Mr. Francis Libiran, Creative Director of CO Studio and VMAN Southeast Asia Mr. Vince Uy, General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines Ms. Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle International Laundry Overseas Business Mr. Stan Ding, and Lifestyle Content Creator Ms. Aliza Apostol-Goco

Continuing its pursuit of perfection and excellence, Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines, a global leader in premium home appliances, elevates everyday living as it launches its newest line of artisanal home solutions, along with new Takumi Masters at the Toshiba Dealer Convention Gala.

Blending the essence of Japanese design with the functional elegance of Scandinavian lines, Toshiba’s new Japandi Series launched under the “Harmony in Details” campaign champions seamless design and effortless living while preserving the brand’s artistry, craftsmanship, and innovation. The new line introduces stylish models of refrigerators, washing machine, water dispenser, microwave oven, and rice cooker designed to enhance daily living.

Toshiba Lifestyle’s Japandi Suite

These premium home appliances perfectly exemplify understated elegance, allowing access to luxurious appliances without compromising on quality and innovative features for its sophisticated consumers, embodied by its new group of Takumi Masters.

The Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines Takumi Masters are unveiled at the Toshiba Dealer Convention Gala. In the photo are (from left) Takumi Master of Visionary Style Mr. Francis Libiran, Takumi Master of Harmonious Sound Mr. Gerard Salonga, Takumi Master of Soulful Living Ms. Stephanie Zubiri, and Takumi Master of Progressive Cuisine Chef Josh Boutwood

With an already exceptional roster of Takumi Masters or master craftsmen, a title given to individuals who have righteously become experts in their field of vocation, Toshiba officially introduced four new powerhouse names to add to the list: Mr. Francis Libiran as the Takumi Master of Visionary Style; Ms. Stephanie Zubiri as the Takumi Master of Soulful Living; Chef Josh Boutwood as the Takumi Master of Progressive Cuisine; and Mr. Gerard Salonga as the Takumi Master of Harmonious Sound.

Toshiba Takumi Master of Visionary Style Mr. Francis Libiran

Mr. Francis Libiran is a premier architect and fashion designer, celebrated for dressing his muses in intricately styled and designed couture that showcases his unmatched attention to detail. 

Toshiba Takumi Master of Soulful Living Ms. Stephanie Zubiri

On the other hand, Ms. Stephanie Zubiri is a master of harmonious living, perfectly balancing and honing her artistry as a multi-award-winning author, an entrepreneur, and a wellness advocate on top of taking on the fulfilling role of a mother. 

Takumi Master of Progressive Cuisine Chef Josh Boutwood

Meanwhile, Chef Josh Boutwood, is a chef and restaurateur of The Test Kitchen, Helm and Savage and renowned innovator in the Philippine culinary scene and is considered one of the pioneers of produce-driven cuisine in the country. 

Takumi Master of Harmonious Sound Mr. Gerard Salonga

And finally, harmoniously weaving together Toshiba’s orchestra of masters is world-renowned musical composer and current Resident Conductor of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, Mr. Gerard Salonga.

General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines Ms. Anna Marie Alejandro speaks about Toshiba’s newest lines of appliances and new group of Takumi Masters

“Toshiba’s Takumi Masters are known for their exceptional achievements, dedication to their craft, and commitment to serve for a higher purpose. They personify the values that Toshiba home appliances stand for - craftsmanship, precision, and perfection. These are the guiding principles that ensure that every detail of Toshiba’s home solutions fits harmoniously with the lifestyle of its refined audience,” shared Ms. Anna Marie Alejandro, General Manager of Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines.

Toshiba integrates harmony into every corner of the home. From its suite of small appliances to premium home systems, every detail is precisely crafted to meet the standards of Japanese craftsmanship and innovation.

For more information on Toshiba’s newest product line-ups and campaign, visit https://www.toshiba-lifestyle.com/ph and follow Toshiba Lifestyle Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Celebrate Father's Day with Timeless Tunes: Join the One Stop Record Fair at Ayala Malls Trinoma

This coming Father’s Day, gear up for the ultimate vinyl experience at the One Stop Record Fair happening at Ayala Malls Trinoma Activity Center from June 14 to 15. 

The quarterly vinyl record fair promises to take everyone on a nostalgic journey and be reconnected through timeless tunes that have soundtracked generations.

From classic rock anthems to beloved OPM hits, jazz and soul, the event will bring a vast collection of rare, vintage and new vinyl records that will delight dads and music enthusiasts alike.

Last March, Ayala Malls Trinoma housed the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion for two days, right at the heart of Quezon City, which drew in patrons, curious mall-goers and the younger generation.

Due to public demand, the One Stop Record Fair: Vinyl in Motion Dad’s Day edition will come back to Ayala Malls Trinoma for something bigger and better.

The staple all-day old-school music spun by Manila’s veteran DJs, the intimate and nostalgic atmosphere and a great selection of vinyl records were maintained but more upgrades set it apart from prior fairs. 

Over 20 vinyl vendors were present, but beyond music, there were also CDs, cassette tapes, band shirts and other vintage items, such as coins and bills, and collectibles sold at the event. 

Trinoma also added its own spin to the event, by offering free freshly made mocktails from TGI Fridays and beautifully curated flower bouquet from Smitten. Customers just need to present a minimum single receipt worth P500 from any Trinoma merchant.

“The energy at our last One Stop Record Fair at Ayala Malls Trinoma was electric!” Sari Osorio, organizer of the One Stop Record Fair, said.

“As we gear up for our upcoming Father's Day event, we are thrilled to see the community so excited about records, art, collectibles and of course, the vinyl community. Let's make this Father's Day one to remember!” she added.

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Run Against Cervical Cancer Draws 1,000 Strong: A Powerful Call for Prevention and Awareness

Making Strides Against Cervical Cancer | Runners set off at the 5KM gun start of the Run Against Cervical Cancer, marking Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and rallying support for prevention and early detection efforts. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

On May 25, 2025, over 1,000 participants gathered at Parqal Mall in ASEANA City, ParaƱaque, for the Run Against Cervical Cancer (RACC). This event marked the start of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and aimed to raise awareness about prevention and early detection.

Organized by MSD Philippines and the Pharmaceutical & Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), the run featured 3km and 5km routes. Runners included families, cancer survivors, healthcare professionals, and advocates, all united by a common cause.

Personal Stories of Strength

Among the participants was Lorely Magalona, who dedicated her run to her mother, a cervical cancer victim. Lorely, now 40, runs 10km daily and has completed an 80km ultramarathon. She shared:

“You benefit from exercise in more ways than one. We all want to live longer and healthier lives.”

Seventy-eight-year-old ultramarathoner Rosalinda Ogsimer joins the Run Against Cervical Cancer to show support for those battling the disease and to help raise awareness on prevention and early detection. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

Senior athletes like 78-year-old Rosalinda Ogsimer and 67-year-old Patricio Punzalan also joined, showing that age is no barrier to fitness or advocacy.

The Importance of Prevention

Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of death among Filipino women, with 7,897 new cases and 4,052 deaths annually. The primary cause is persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination against HPV, especially among girls aged 9 to 14, significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life. However, vaccination coverage in the country remains low, hindered by misinformation, limited access, and lack of awareness.

The RACC event highlighted the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 goals for eliminating cervical cancer by 2030:

  • 90% of girls fully vaccinated against HPV by age 15
  • 70% of women screened with high-performance tests by 35 and again by 45

  • 90% of women diagnosed with cervical disease receive timely treatment

Voices for Change

Advocates like content creator Charm de Leon and media personality Andi Manzano emphasized the importance of vaccination and early screening. Charm de Leon encouraged women to take charge of their health:

“If you’re waiting for a sign, this is it. Get screened, research the HPV vaccine, and follow credible voices in health.”

Advocates and representatives from public and private organizations participate in a commitment exercise during the Run Against Cervical Cancer, uniting efforts to help eliminate cervical cancer through prevention, awareness, and early detection. Photo by Andrea G. Zubiri Assisted by: Janna Victoria Gamil

Former national football player and coach Belay Fernando-Dela Cruz, a Stage 3B cervical cancer survivor, likened the run to her cancer journey:

“Sometimes you’re running alone, sometimes with others. But what matters is showing up and staying the course.”

Community Support and Advocacy

Quezon City District 1 Councilor Charm Ferrer, a Stage 3C cervical cancer survivor, shared her own advocacy after undergoing 36 rounds of radiation, 4 brachytherapy sessions, and 6 chemotherapy treatments. She called on other local government units to replicate Quezon City’s Comprehensive Cervical Cancer Elimination Ordinance, which expands access to HPV vaccines and screening services.

MSD Philippines President and Managing Director Andreas Riedel closed the event with a powerful reminder:

“Cervical cancer is preventable. The solutions are here—vaccination, screening, and treatment. What we need now is action.

Take Action Today

Cervical cancer is preventable. Vaccination and regular screening are key to protection. Join the movement. Together, we can eliminate cervical cancer.

Home Credit and Puregold Team Up to Bring Financial Access Closer to Filipinos

Partnership enables easier credit access at Puregold stores, empowering everyday Filipinos with smart, inclusive financial tools.

Home Credit Philippines, in partnership with Puregold, has expanded the availability of the Home Credit Card to select Puregold stores nationwide. This move makes credit more accessible for everyday Filipinos while reinforcing both companies’ commitment to empowering communities through practical, inclusive financial services.

Smart Credit Made Simple 

The Home Credit Card is a smart, accessible financial tool designed to help Filipinos manage expenses and build credit responsibly. Ideal for first-time cardholders, it offers a Php 20,000 credit limit and a 45-day-interest-free grace period. The membership fee is waived for the first three months—and cardholders can continue to have it waived when they spend at least PHP 15,000 per month thereafter. Cardholders enjoy up to PHP 500 rebates in the first month, unlimited 3% discount on load purchases, and zero fees when paying bills via the app. With secure, cashless payments anytime, anywhere via QR Ph, the Home Credit Card—now available at select Puregold stores—empowers everyday Filipinos, especially sari-sari store and karinderia owners, to take confident steps toward a stronger financial future. 

Highlighted at TNAP Convention 2025 

The rollout was spotlighted at the Tindahan ni Aling Puring (TNAP) Convention 2025, held May 15–17 at the World Trade Center, Pasay. With this year’s theme, “Puregold Piliin si Aling Puring! Kayang-kaya Umasenso!”, the event gathered over 50,000 MSME attendees, reinforcing Home Credit’s mission to empower Filipinos—especially micro-entrepreneurs and small business owners—with accessible, practical financial tools that help them grow and succeed. 

“Together with Puregold, we’re making it easier for Filipinos to access credit that fits their needs,” said Zdenek Jankovsky, Chief Business Development Officer at Home Credit Philippines. “This partnership is more than about convenience—it’s about empowering people to take control of their finances and live better lives.” 

Chief Business Development Officer Zdenek Jankovsky shares the benefits of the Home Credit Card at the Puregold Tindahan ni Aling Puring (TNAP) Convention 2025.

A Shared Commitment to the Filipino Consumer 

This initiative underscores Home Credit’s evolution from a financing provider to a comprehensive financial partner. By teaming up with Puregold, the brand extends its reach and impact, helping more Filipinos build financial capability and achieve everyday goals. 

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also download the Home Credit App or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.  

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

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