Breville Taps Renowned Filipina Barista Champion as Brand Ambassador

(L-R) Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

The Philippines, situated in the esteemed "Bean Belt" known for major coffee-producing nations, is witnessing a transformative shift in its coffee culture. Despite lagging behind in this global movement, there is a growing opportunity for the nation to cultivate a robust coffee culture where the populace embraces and appreciates the nuances of this beloved beverage while leveraging modern technologies to craft the perfect cup.

IAJ Wellness Corporation (IAJWC), the exclusive distributor of Breville in the Philippines, has recently appointed Vanessa Maclang Caceres, a highly acclaimed barista and prominent content creator, as the brand ambassador for Breville, a leading Australian small kitchen appliances brand. This strategic partnership aims to elevate awareness and appreciation for coffee culture in the country, drawing inspiration from the rich coffee traditions observed in various countries worldwide.

Cris Llamo, President of IAJWC, envisions replicating the sophisticated coffee trends locally, encouraging Filipinos not only to consume coffee but to delve deep into the art and essence of its diverse flavors and origins. The collaboration with Vanessa, renowned for her extensive industry knowledge, is poised to enhance public understanding of specialty coffee and promote the concept of Third Wave Coffee in the Philippines.

Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, the Food & Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager at Breville Philippines, emphasized the importance of Vanessa's role in educating and equipping frontline staff with the requisite expertise on specialty coffee to effectively showcase Breville products to customers. Vanessa, affectionately known as Ms. V or Mamita, will leverage her social media presence to endorse Breville's coffee range and other kitchen appliances while providing hands-on training to enhance product knowledge among frontline personnel.

(L-R) Breville Philippines' PR Agency Partner CatPR Head Nadine Tan, Breville Philippines Food and Beverage (F&B) Business Unit Manager Elijah Marie Cortez-Flores, Breville Philippines Ambassadress Vanessa Maclang Caceres, and IAJWC President Ma. Cristina S. Llamo

Expressing gratitude for the partnership, Vanessa highlighted the significance of imparting her expertise in Third Wave Coffee to a broader audience. She underscored the value of knowledge transfer to ensure that frontline staff accurately convey the essence of coffee and demonstrate the optimal utilization of Breville products to customers.

Breville's decision to engage Vanessa as its brand ambassador stemmed from her positive experience with the Breville Bambino Plus during Women's Month in March 2023. Impressed by the product's performance and innovative features, Vanessa became a staunch advocate for Breville, particularly praising its user-friendly design and versatility in simplifying coffee-making processes.

Founded in Sydney in 1932, Breville has evolved into a renowned global brand known for its innovative kitchen products that enhance consumers' culinary experiences. Since its introduction in the Philippines in 2010 under the exclusive distribution of IAJ Wellness Corporation, Breville has established a presence in over 100 retail outlets nationwide, offering a diverse range of premium kitchen appliances tailored to meet the evolving needs of customers. Vanessa's endorsement of Breville underscores the brand's commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that elevate the kitchen experience and empower consumers to explore new culinary horizons.

Celebrating the 126th Philippine Independence at SM with Special Events and Job Fairs

SM Malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela marked the 126th Philippine Independence Day with distinctive flag-raising ceremonies and captivating performances, emphasizing community empowerment through job opportunities.

In Caloocan, a gathering of mall employees, business partners, and community members participated in the flag ceremony at SM City Grand Central. Following this solemn tribute, the mall transformed into a lively stage, featuring a variety of cultural performances. One of the standout acts was a moving performance by Angklung and Ethnic Ensemble. The Independence Day celebration at SM City Grand Central not only showcased impressive performances but also hosted the Kalayaan Job Fair. Named "Trabaho para sa Super Pinoy," the job fair at SM City Grand Central presented 50 companies offering numerous job opportunities locally and internationally. This endeavor not only honored independence but also provided crucial support to Filipinos in search of employment opportunities.

Likewise, SM City Valenzuela and SM Center Sangandaan organized a series of significant programs and presentations to commemorate the Nation's Independence Day. SM City Valenzuela will conclude its festivities with a job fair on June 14, featuring hundreds of overseas job opportunities.

With a focus on supporting local businesses, SM Malls in Grand Central, Sangandaan, and Valenzuela encourage shoppers to buy local through the Super Pinoy Market campaign. This campaign aims to empower and assist businesses, particularly Filipino brands and local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Super Pinoy Market initiative runs throughout the month, guiding shoppers to explore and support MSMEs and local businesses within the malls.

Discover Citadines Bacolod City: Your New Destination for Dining and Comfort in June 2024

Explore the Best of Bacolod's Cuisine and Hospitality

Citadines Bacolod City, the latest addition by Ascott Limited, offers modern accommodations for business and leisure travelers in Bacolod. With contemporary design and warm Negrense hospitality, guests can enjoy a seamless transition from the city's buzz to the comfort of their rooms.

The property provides a range of accommodation options, from Studio Apartments to Two-Bedroom Deluxe Rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Alongside stylish interiors, guests can enjoy communal spaces like a lobby lounge, fitness center, and event spaces.

Guests can indulge in culinary delights at Citadines Bacolod City's restaurants. From the Lobby Café Pureza to the grab-and-go Tam-is, and the Fuego Bar and Lounge, offering steaks and cocktails, there's something for every palate. Adlao by the pool serves refreshing snacks and cocktails.

Citadines Bacolod City's City Hacks program, led by their staff called Citazens, provides guests with insider tips for an authentic local experience, including exploring the city's culture and cuisine. For reservations and updates, visit Citadines' website and social media pages.

Protect your home and dreams with Home Credit

A journey of resilience, hope, and achieving dreams

The heat of the summer season pushes most to overuse cooling appliances, causing them to overheat and catch fire. With the recent El Nino hitting most parts of the Philippines with intense heat waves and increasing the need to use cooling appliances, many houses, especially those made of lighter materials, are in danger of going up in flames.

This potential tragedy can cause people to lose everything they have in the blink of an eye, a tough blow that can turn their world upside down.

Such is what happened to Jeann Rose Orongan and her family from Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. She and her family faced this unfortunate obstacle when a fire wiped out everything, they owned in February this year. With their belongings turned to ashes, they now have the challenge of rebuilding their lives from the ground up.

Hope in times of crisis

The situation began around 2 A.M. when a fire broke out in a neighboring barangay. Fueled by strong sea winds, the flames spread quickly, engulfing houses along the way until they reached Jeann’s area. Despite the valiant efforts of first responders, the fire raged on, affecting hundreds of families, including Jeann’s before it was finally brought under control after six grueling hours. 

The fire consumed her family’s belongings and their sari-sari store, their main source of income then, that provides their everyday household expenses and covers her child’s school needs. 

With everything lost, Jeann and her family were starting over once again. Fortunately, she is covered by Home Credit’s Home Content Protection, Home Credit Philippines’ (HCPH) home belongings protection that provides coverage for appliances, electronics, furniture, and other belongings, bought via Home Credit or not, in the event of robberies or natural disasters. As a long-time customer of the leading consumer finance company, Jeann filed a hassle-free claim through BPI MS, with the service provider handling the coverage and releasing claim payment within two weeks after she submitted requirements.

“Three or four days pagkatapos kaming masunugan, nag-email ako sa BPI MS Claims. Mabilis silang nag-respond sa akin at nagbigay ng requirements na kailangan kong ipasa para ma-avail ang coverage, katulad ng claim forms, fire certification, inventory of damaged appliances, barangay clearance, valid identification card, at pictures ng damaged items at bahay. Two weeks after kong maipasa ang requirements ay hindi ko inasahan na matatanggap ko na agad ang PhP50,000 coverage,” Jeann said.

(Three or four days after our house burned down, I emailed BPI MS Claims. They quickly responded to me and provided the requirements I needed to submit to avail the coverage, such as claim forms, fire certification, inventory of damaged appliances, barangay clearance, valid identification card, and pictures of damaged items and the house. Two weeks after I submitted all the requirements, I didn't expect to receive the PhP50,000 coverage immediately.)

Upon receiving the coverage, Jeann felt relief and gratitude, knowing they now had funds to kickstart rebuilding what was lost in the fire. The money also helped them in sending their son to college, especially as he is a graduating senior high school student. In addition to covering their daily expenses and their son’s schooling, she also allocated some of the money to purchase items for their new sari-sari store, while the remainder was set aside to repay their ongoing loans with Home Credit.

“It is essential for Filipinos to know they have someone they can rely on to assist in rebuilding their lives when unexpected events arise. This is why we, at Home Credit, always strive to provide innovative offerings to Filipinos to support them in every situation, especially during tough times. We’re thankful that our Home Content Protection has made a positive impact on the lives of Filipinos like Jeann, offering them peace of mind and hope,” Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of Home Credit Philippines, shared. 

Jeann expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Home Credit for their support during her family’s time of need.

“Lubos kaming nagpapasalamat kay Home Credit sa tulong na ipinagkaloob niya sa amin. Kung tao si Home Credit, mahigpit na yakap ang ipagkakaloob ko sa kanya dahil kahit sa hirap ng buhay ay kasama namin siya. Hindi niya kami pinabayaan. Nairaos ko po ang mga pangangailangan namin sa pang-araw-araw at sa edukasyon ng aming anak.

Dahil sa malaking tulong sa amin ng Home Credit, hindi ko ipagpapalit ang tiwalang ibinigay nila sa akin. Sisikapin ko na mabayaran ang aming mga loan dahil malaking bagay na mayroon kang maasahan sa oras ng pangangailangan, maging ito ay para sa appliances, gadgets, o kahit cash,” Jeann conveyed.

(We are sincerely grateful to Home Credit for the assistance they have provided us. If Home Credit were a person, I would give them a tight embrace because even during our life's challenges, they were with us. They never abandoned us. I was able to have additional funds for our daily needs and our son's education.

Because of the significant help Home Credit has given us, I will not break the trust they have placed in me. I will strive to repay our loans because it's a big deal to have someone to rely on in times of need, whether it's for appliances, gadgets, or even cash.)

Home Credit: The reliable partner para sa life

Jeann first encountered Home Credit while browsing on her phone. Intrigued by the company’s offerings, she conducted an online search and found out about its quick processing time and the convenience of needing only one valid ID to avail herself of installment deals or cash loan offers.

As a result, Jeann began using Home Credit's services in 2021, finding it to be her dependable lifestyle partner ever since. With its diverse range of offers and services, she was able to purchase furniture, appliances, and gadgets, and even obtain cash loans.

"Dahil sa Home Credit, nakapag-ipon ako ng mga kagamitan sa bahay bago ito nasunog. Nakakuha rin ako ng cash loan na ginamit ko sa pagbili ng paninda sa dati naming sari-sari store at sa mga pangangailangan ng aming anak sa pag-aaral tulad ng laptop, na kailangan niya para sa kanilang mga research sa paaralan,” Jeann shared.  

(Because of Home Credit, I managed to acquire household items before our house burned down. I also got a cash loan, which I used to buy goods for our former sari-sari store. Later, I utilized it for our child’s educational needs, such as buying a laptop required for their school research.)

Recognizing Jeann's loyalty as a valued customer, Home Credit awarded her PhP30,000 to assist her family in rebuilding after the fire and to help cover her son's upcoming college expenses. This gesture not only demonstrates Home Credit's commitment to supporting its customers in times of need but also serves as a token of appreciation for Jeann's unwavering loyalty.

To know more about Jeann’s story, watch here.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in Shoppingmall.ph. 

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). 

Elevate Father's Day with SM's Gamer Dad Gift Guide

Finding the perfect gift for gamer dads can be challenging, but fear not! SM has curated a selection of top-notch gifts for any gamer dad this Father's Day.

Nintendo Switch Lite from Data Blitz at SM City Marilao.

- Nintendo Switch Lite: Tap into nostalgia with the portable powerhouse from Data Blitz at SM City Marilao. Perfect for gaming on the go with a fantastic library of games.

Level up your dad’s gaming experience with the PlayStation 5 available at GameXtreme branches in SM Bulacan malls.

- PlayStation 5: Elevate gaming experience with the cutting-edge console packed with features like an HD camera and lightning-fast broadband connection. Available at GameXtreme branches in SM Bulacan malls.

Hook your dad up to the ultimate gaming experience with an Xbox One, available at Data Blitz in SM City Marilao.

- Xbox One: An all-in-one entertainment experience with 4K streaming and backward compatibility. Available at Data Blitz in SM City Marilao.

High-quality wireless gaming headsets at PC Express in SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan.

- Wireless Gaming Headset: Give your dad a competitive edge with a high-quality gaming headset from PC Express in SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan.

Swivel-base gaming chairs provide the support and comfort dads need to stay focused on the game. Get these from Octagon branches at SM Bulacan malls.

- Swivel Gaming Chair: Level up comfort with a swivel base gaming chair from Octagon branches at SM Bulacan malls.

-Condenser Microphone: Ideal for streamers, available at SM Cyberzone for crystal clear audio.

Gaming computer keyboard and mouse combo from GameXtreme branches in SM Bulacan malls.

- Gaming Computer Keyboard and Mouse Combo: Say goodbye to wrist strain with this combo from GameXtreme branches in SM Bulacan malls.

Gaming laptop cooling pads from SM Stationery have high-speed turbo fans for uninterrupted gameplay.

- Gaming Laptop Cooling Pad: Keep Dad's laptop cool during intense gaming sessions with this cooling pad from SM Stationery.

External drive with tons of storage for dad’s ultimate game collection. Get it at PC Express in SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan.

  

External Drive: Store more games with an external drive available at PC Express in SM City Marilao and SM Center Pulilan.

This Father’s Day, treat your dad to tech and gaming bliss at your favorite SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan. Explore SM’s Cyberzone for leading devices and gear that your dad will love unwrapping.

KSU Enhances Campus Connectivity with Converge: A Step Towards Modernization

L to R - Mr. Romoualdo Wacas (KSU- BAC Chairman), Ms. Joy Enriquez (Converge - Regional Sales Manager for NCL), Lope Buen (KSU - BAC Member)

Sate-funded universities in the Philippines have a responsibility to provide affordable yet high-quality education in a modern and digital setting post-pandemic. Kalinga State University (KSU) is at the forefront of this movement, striving to transform its campus into a cutting-edge environment with advanced IT infrastructure and fiber optic connectivity. 

Eric Paloy, the Director of Information and Technology Office at KSU, envisions the university as a knowledge and technology hub in the Asia Pacific region. This vision includes offering new technology and programs not only to local students but also to those from neighboring countries in ASEAN.

Central to KSU's ambition of becoming a smart and integrated campus is the need for reliable connectivity, which led them to partner with Converge ICT Solutions, a pioneering ISP in Tabuk City. Paloy emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted connectivity and digital operations, highlighting Converge's fast and dependable service as the reason for their choice.

From Left: Mr. Romoualdo Wacas (Kalinga State University- Bids and Awards Committee Chairman), Ms. Joy Enriquez (Converge - Regional Sales Manager for NCL), and Mr. Lope Buen (Kalinga State University - BAC Member)

“We have a policy in place in the IT department where we promise no interruptions in the connectivity and digital operations of the university. We had a strategy on this, and based on our research, Converge has given the fastest and most reliable connection in the province, so that’s why we chose them as a partner,” Paloy added. 

Over the past 11 years, KSU has embraced technological advancements, transitioning from outdated DSL internet to Converge's fiber-based connection, significantly improving daily operations. This upgrade has enabled the university to provide top-notch academic instruction with a focus on cultural heritage to its student body.

“ In previous years, our internet connection was only DSL. Hindi gaano kabilis and kulang talaga sa bandwidth. So when the fiber-based internet of Converge came to us, it really helped speed up the daily operations of the university,” he added

The Converge Sales team, together with the KSU officials look forward to a fruitful collaboration on this fiber broadband connectivity. 

He shares that now, with a robust and efficient digital infrastructure in place, KSU can continue bringing excellent academic instruction with a focus on cultural heritage, to its hundreds of students. 

With a robust digital infrastructure in place, KSU now facilitates online learning, remote access to resources, collaborative tools, and efficient information dissemination through social media. Paloy is confident that with Converge as a reliable partner and a strong technological foundation, KSU is well-positioned to realize its vision of becoming a prominent knowledge and technology hub in the Asia Pacific region.

“In the future, I think our university will achieve its vision and mission - to be a knowledge and technology hub in Asia Pacific. With the help of a good ISP partner in Converge and technological infrastructure in place, we can achieve this vision,” ended Paloy. 

BDO and SM Introduce Kabayan Tuesday for Overseas Filipino Families, Featuring a Heartwarming Surprise from Piolo Pascual

Enjoy Up to 10% Off at Your Favorite Stores Every First Tuesday of the Month

Overseas Filipinos (OFs) exhibit unwavering dedication as they work tirelessly for their loved ones, enduring long periods of separation to support not just their families but also their homeland.

In a gesture of appreciation, BDO and SM have launched Kabayan Tuesday, an exclusive promotion designed to enhance the shopping experiences of OF families. This offer is available every first Tuesday of 2024.

OF families simply need to present their Kabayan ATM card, passbook, or BDO remittance payment slip to enjoy discounts of up to 10% at all SM Store branches nationwide, including SM Appliance, Watsons, Miniso, Toy Kingdom, Surplus, Baby Company, Sports Central, ACE Hardware, SM Cinema, SM Game Park, SM Bowling, and SM Skating.

The launch of this special promotion was commemorated with a lively event, the "Kabayan Tuesday Mall Show with Piolo," held on June 4 at the newly opened SM City Caloocan.

A celebration beftting OFs contributions

BDO and SM have a shared vision of enriching the daily lives of Filipino families by making experiences more meaningful, convenient, and rewarding.

Kabayan Tuesday serves as BDO's expression of gratitude towards OF families, assuring them of a steadfast partnership with BDO.

Through Kabayan Tuesday, SM shines a light on OF families, acknowledging their significant presence in the community and expressing gratitude for including SM in their family bonding moments. 

The highlight of the event was a heartwarming surprise by BDO ambassador Piolo Pascual, who not only graced the launch and greeted attendees but also treated an OF family to an unforgettable experience.

A Memorable Surprise: Music and Shopping Spree

During the event, Piolo delighted the crowd as he approached the son and sister of Maritess Magtabog, a Filipino worker based in Japan.

After serenading them with a few songs, Piolo invited the Magtabog family on a shopping spree at the SM Store and other participating stores, recognizing their loyalty as BDO Kabayan Savings account holders over the years.

The Magtabog family, supported by their mother's 22 years of hard work abroad, seized the opportunity to purchase their own home through BDO in Caloocan.

Reflecting on the experience, Piolo shared, "Spending time with the Magtabog family was truly refreshing and enjoyable. Having been an OF myself, I understand the sacrifices our kabayans make year-round, and it was an honor to connect with them. I encourage more OFs to take advantage of making their loved ones' shopping experiences more rewarding and to remember that BDO and SM are here as their partners."

Kabayan Tuesday, a collaborative effort between BDO and SM, offers special discounts of up to 10% at all SM Store branches, SM Appliance, Viatace Toy Kingdom, Surplus, Baby Company, Sports Central, ACE Hardware, SM Cinema, Game Park, SM Bowling, and Skating. For additional information, visit the BDO Remittance page or follow updates on the BDO Kabayan Facebook page.