Sunnies Studios X Generation HOPE: Making an Impact, One Classroom at a Time

 

Sunnies turned over two new public school classrooms to Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas as part of their 10-classroom commitment with Generation HOPE. In photo are (from left) Muzon Elementary School Principal Edwin Marasigan, Department of Education OIC Chief Education Supervisor, School Governance and Operations Division Dr. Mario B. Maramot, Alitagtag, Batangas Municipal Mayor Jo-Ann Ponggos, Sunnies Founders Eric Dee, Bea Soriano-Dee, Georgina Wilson, and Jess Wilson, HOPE Business Development Manager Selena Ortiga, and HOPE Partner Relations & Strategic Alliances Angel Samson Antonio.

HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, together with Sunnies Studios, a well-loved Filipino lifestyle brand, has officially turned over two newly built public school classrooms at Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas, part of a broader effort to improve learning spaces amid the country’s ongoing classroom shortage that continues to impact millions of students nationwide.

The classroom turnover marks the first milestone in Sunnies’ pledge to fund a total of 10 classrooms through HOPE’s flagship Generation HOPE campaign, a movement that brings together like-minded organizations to help close the education infrastructure gap in underserved communities.

New HOPE classrooms were built for the Grade 5 students of Muzon Elementary School, giving them a brighter and better place to learn

Reflecting on this milestone, HOPE Founder Ms. Nanette Medved-Po shared, “I really thought we should approach the most beloved brands in the country and say we want to do something bigger, and we want to do it together. To inspire the nation to nation-build for education, we have to do it with the support of brands and businesses in the country. We are deeply grateful to Sunnies for partnering with us on this important mission.”

As part of their long-term commitment, Sunnies is supporting the construction of classrooms in high-need public schools across the country. This initiative directly aligns with HOPE’s mission to provide every Filipino child access to safe, nurturing spaces where they can develop essential skills for a brighter future.

HOPE Business Development Manager Ms. Selena Ortiga speaks about the importance of HOPE’s partnership with Sunnies in building classrooms and creating opportunities for Filipino students.

“We are incredibly excited to kick off this meaningful partnership with Sunnies through this classroom turnover,” said Ms. Selena Ortiga, Business Development Manager of HOPE. “Every classroom we build represents more than just four walls, it’s a place for learning, dreaming, and transformation. Sunnies’ commitment of 10 classrooms will create ripple effects that reach far beyond the students inside them.”

This collaboration not only helps address the country’s classroom shortage but also sets a compelling example of how brands can lead with purpose. Through Generation HOPE, purpose-driven businesses are turning everyday decisions into long-term, meaningful change.

Sunnies Studios Co-Founder and Head of Product Development Ms. Bea Soriano Dee and Muzon Elementary School Principal Edwin Marasigan exchange Philippine flags, a symbolic tradition observed in all HOPE classroom turnovers.

“Partnering with HOPE allows us to make a meaningful contribution where it’s needed most. Education is something we deeply value, and we’re proud to help provide learning spaces that empower the next generation,” said Ms. Bea Soriano-Dee, Co-Founder and Head of Product Development at Sunnies Studios.

Sunnies’ partnership with HOPE is part of a larger journey toward being a more mindful and responsible brand. From supporting public education to reducing their environmental footprint through sustainable product design, Sunnies continues to find ways to make a lasting impact.

In June, Sunnies and HOPE introduced Sunnies Studios X HOPE Clean Lens, a safe and gentle lens cleaner to help you see through your lens better, as their first co-branded product, while an everyday staple designed to keep you hydrated while on the go is set to be unveiled soon.

Inside the HOPE classroom at Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas.

Inside the HOPE classroom at Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas.

The 10 classrooms funded by Sunnies will serve as long-term investments in the country’s future, opening doors, raising aspirations, and helping Filipino students take confident steps toward their dreams.

Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara praised the initiative, saying, “We thank HOPE for their past initiatives, but this is something different, something truly game-changing, made possible with the support of the Philippines’ private sector. Partnerships like this show how the private sector can help shape the future of our students.”

To date, HOPE has built over 144 classrooms across the country, starting with every bottle of water sold, and now expanding through co-branded products and purpose-led partnerships.

For more information about Generation HOPE, please visit https://www.generationhope.ph/ or follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates.

Dreaming of Taiwan? The "Panahon sa Taiwan 2025" Travel Fair Has Arrived!

Ever wondered what makes Taiwan such a hit with Filipino travelers? I found out firsthand at the launch of the "Panahon sa Taiwan 2025" Travel Fair at Robinsons Galleria Ortigas, and let me tell you, it's an experience you don't want to miss!

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) Deputy Representative Dustin T.S. Yang and Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Manila (TTIC) Director Cindy Y.T. Chen, felt like the official starting gun for a race to explore Taiwan.

Major players like China Airlines, EVA Air, and travel agencies such as Amkor Travel and Tours Inc., BF Travel and Tours Inc., Everbright Travel & Tours Inc., Jeron Travel, and Sole Destinations Travel were all there, showcasing the best of Taiwan.

Cindy Chen highlighted that the Philippines is a strong market for Taiwan, thanks to visa-free entry and cool promotional events like this one. Taiwan’s appeal is clear: four distinct seasons, easy-to-navigate transportation, amazing street food, shopping, and, of course, the genuinely warm welcome you receive. 

Travel blogger Xzar Lim shared his Taiwan experience, captivating the audience with tales of his adventures. Although Bea Binene will be making her appearance on the second day, anticipation is building for her inspiring stories about Taiwan. I even joined the Lucky Lantern D.I.Y. workshop, which was a fun way to connect with Taiwanese culture. Plus, the chance to win roundtrip tickets to Taipei? Yes, please!

If you missed the first day, don't worry! The fair continues on August 31, 2025, with Bea Binene making her appearance. Head over to Robinsons Galleria Ortigas and start planning your own Taiwan adventure. You can also check out Taiwan Tourism PH on Facebook for more info.

Vote & Win! Grab FanFaves 2025: Your Cravings Could Score a Year's Supply

In Grab’s annual FanFaves, cravings turn to ballots. And this year, those votes could reward fans with a year’s worth of their favorite dish.

Grab Philippines has recently launched this year’s iteration of Grab FanFaves, its annual order campaign that crowns the Philippines’ most beloved dishes. The nationwide program invites Filipinos to vote with their orders, turning everyday cravings into ballots that decide which food items will be named the country’s top fan favorites.

Running until September 30, 2025, Grab FanFaves empowers fans to show support for their go-to meals and snacks. With every qualified order, users not only push their favorite dish closer to the crown. And to make things even tastier, voters could score the ultimate reward—an entire year’s worth of the Platinum-winning dish they championed.

Crowning the Nation’s Favorites

FanFaves will recognize winners across three key categories:

• Platinum Fan Fave – The ultimate national food icons. 
• Gold Fan Fave – A people’s stamp of approval.
• Regional Fan Fave – Local champions in Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

This year’s campaign will span an expanded set of categories that reflect the diversity of Filipino cravings. Fans can vote for their favorites across different categories: Fried Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Flavored Chicken, Pizza, Fries or Onion Rings, Coffee, Burgers, Chicken Burgers, Rice Bowls, Healthy Options, Pasta, Cakes, and Coke Sulit Combo Deals. New to FanFaves 2025 are the highly anticipated categories of Coolers, Desserts, Filipino Dishes, Coke Zero Thrill Meals, Sprite Spicy Hits, and Royal Merienda Bites, celebrating both modern indulgences and timeless classics. In addition, Grab will also crown the top Dine Out Fan Fave among restaurants that are offering Grab Dine Out Deals in-store.   

Joining GrabFood FanFaves 2025

Participating is simple:

• Order any participating dish from the FanFaves tile on the GrabFood homepage during the campaign period, where you’ll find all items under the Iconic, Trending Faves, and Coke-Sponsored categories.
• 1 order = 1 vote. Every order is counted as a ballot for the chosen food item.
• Every order of a participating SKU comes with a GrabRewards voucher directing them to the official FanFaves Registration Form. Users must register through the form to secure their raffle entry.

At the end of the campaign, one lucky voter per Platinum-winning brand will be randomly selected to win a one-year supply of the winning favorite dish they voted for.

The Ultimate Fan Reward

Come October 2025, winners will be treated to the ultimate reward: one free Platinum-winning dish every week for a year. With 52 redemptions in total, the discount will be auto-applied at checkout whenever the dish is added to their basket — no extra steps needed.

More Than Just a Campaign

FanFaves has grown into a cultural pulse check on what Filipinos crave most — from enduring national icons to emerging local favorites. By placing fans at the center, GrabFood celebrates both community pride and the country’s diverse food culture.

Director for Deliveries EJ DeLa Vega shares, “FanFaves has always been about celebrating the flavors and dishes that bring us together as Filipinos. This year, we are thrilled to once again give our consumers the chance to not only shape the results but also enjoy their favorites in a truly rewarding way.”

Users can check the leaderboard, track the fan favorites, and catch all the behind-the-bite action at grabfanfaves.com.

Quick Bites, Big Delights: Snack Your Way Through SM Center Sangandaan

Done with shopping but left with a little time to stay at the mall? Worry no more, as SM Center Sangandaan has got you covered with easy munchies perfect for some grab-and-go moments.

Check out these quickly available snack selections you can try on your next visit. 

POTATO CORNER

Because fries remain a top choice when it comes to convenient snacking, a warm and flavorful serving of Potato Corner will always be a good idea. Nothing beats their signature variants, like Cheese, Barbecue, and Sour Cream, that are best enjoyed in larger sizes, such as the Giga, Mega, or Tera, to satisfy your cravings.

FAMOUS BELGIAN WAFFLE

When extremely hungry but in a hurry, Famous Belgian Waffle sandwiches will always save the day. These freshly baked goodies loaded with sweet and savory fillings are a perfect match to their famous blends, such as coffee, chocolate, or white coffee packs.

KETTLE CORN

The best poppin’ snack, simply known as Kettle Korn, is another enjoyable treat you can munch on during your quick stay at the mall. Chill while indulging in a variety of popcorn flavors such as classic Sweet n' Salty, Cheese, Butterlicious, BBQ, Salted Caramel, and other premium selections.

DAIRY QUEEN

After running errands at the mall, an extra time for some sweets definitely won’t hurt. Drop by Dairy Queen for a mouthwatering Blizzard or a perfectly crafted sundae. Other on-the-go treats include the DQ Sandwich and the classic Dilly Bar.

Make the most of your extra time at the mall. Wrap up your shopping escapade with these easy treats available at SM Center Sangandaan. For exciting dining deals and promotions, visit their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/smcentersangandaan.

Hallyu Home: Experience the Korean Dream with LG at Robinsons Appliances

Transform your living space into a scene straight out of your favorite K-drama with LG and Robinsons Appliances! I recently had the chance to experience "The Hallyu Home" at Robinsons Magnolia, and it was like stepping into the stylish comfort of Korean living. It's all about making life good, right?

LG is making it easier than ever to embrace the Hallyu lifestyle with their latest innovations. The LG OLED EVO and QNED EVO AI TVs don't just display stunning visuals; they use AI to enhance picture quality and offer personalized content recommendations. Plus, the built-in AI chatbot makes troubleshooting a breeze. Want to share content? Mirror your tablet or phone effortlessly. 

For a truly immersive experience, pair your LG AI TV with an LG Soundbar. The synergy creates a dynamic audiovisual experience that elevates movies and TV shows to a new level. Because with LG, life is good when you're enjoying top-notch entertainment.

Music lovers will appreciate the LG XBoom AI speakers, perfect for parties and everyday listening. And for those who love to cook, the LG Neo Chef allows you to sear, grill, and crisp dishes with ease. Control the LG QNED EVO AI via its proprietary app for seamless smart home integration. LG makes it easy to enjoy every moment, because life is good.

LG is also revolutionizing home care. Their air conditioners and air purifiers offer self-cleaning features and eliminate bacteria and odors. Select models even come with free installation! Keeping your home fresh and clean is just another way LG ensures life is good.

One of my favorite innovations was the LG WashTower, a space-saving combo washer/dryer with centralized controls. It uses AI to detect fabric types, ensuring a fast and gentle turbo wash. Plus, it dries clothes quickly with minimal shrinkage. The LG AI DD combo washer/dryer offers the same convenience without needing to transfer clothes. (Manifesting one for myself! 🙏🏻🤞🏻) . And say goodbye to tangled cords with the LG CordZero cordless vacuum!  Making chores easier? That's LG making life good.

Ready to bring the Hallyu vibe to your home? Visit your nearest Robinsons Appliances branch and explore LG's innovative home products. Your dream Korean-inspired living space awaits, and remember – Life is Good!

Gear Up for Fitness: Top Gadget Finds at SM Cyberzone

In today’s modern times, staying fit works side by side with technology. To maintain an active lifestyle, one  must invest on quality sports gadgets that offers convenience  and are meant to last. 

At SM malls in Grand Central, Valenzuela, and Sangandaan, Cyberzone remains supreme in providing diverse range of sports gadgets to keep you in shape and style. Here’s some of the best steals you can find at the mall: 

Fitness Trackers and Smartwatches

Fitness fanatics and active individuals use wearable devices such as fitness tracker and smartwatch to monitor number of steps taken, heart rate, and sleep patterns. If you plan to use your tracker during water-based exercises, opt for a model with water resistance to avoid damage. Brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei and Xiaomi provide comprehensive health insights while withstanding sweat, rain, and even swimming sessions.

Personal Audio Devices

A good brand of headphone or a quality pair of earbuds is crucial in making every gym session fun and convenient. Receive calls or play music during workouts with the latest models from ASUS, Beats by Dr. Dre, and Sony. Experience top notch sound and crisp audio quality with SM Cyberzone’s great selection of personal audio devices. 

Smartphones

One of the most sought-after water-resistant gadgets is the smartphone. With models coming out with IP68 ratings, these devices can withstand dust and immersion in water up to a specified depth and duration. Brands such as Samsung, Apple, and Huawei unveil their latest smartphones at SM Cyberzone, offering customers a wide range of options to select the one that best suits their preferences.

When it comes to keeping fit, it’s good to take advantage of numerous gadgets that further enhances workouts, track progress, and improve overall well-being. Find all these tech treats at Cyberzone in SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan.

FCAS Convention 2025: Relive History & Discover Treasures!

The Filipinas Collectibles and Antique Society (FCAS) proudly announces the FCAS Convention 2025, happening on August 23-24, 2025 at Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City. Now on its second year, this highly. anticipated gathering of collectors, history enthusiasts, and cultural advocates promises an extraordinary showcase of coins, banknotes, memorabilia, artwork, meteorites, and more.

Event Highlights:

- Two Days of Discovery - Explore curated exhibits, interactive displays, and cultural showcases.

- Expert-Led Talks - Learn from notable personalities including historian Prof. Xiao Chua, fountain pen collector Toto Toledo, Meteorite Specialists Abe Ambrocio, Christian Cruz, and Allen Yu, and sketch card artist Edward Santia.

- International Auction - Hosted by Moreton Auction, featuring both on-site and online bidders from around the world.

- Special Exhibits - Unique presentations on heritage collections, meteorites, and rare artifacts.

Drawing the huge attendees daily, the event serves as both a cultural celebration and an educational experience-bridging nostalgia with modern investment value.

Quote from Edward de los Santos, FCAS President:

"Collecting is more than a hobby-it's a way to connect with our nation's history, preserve our heritage, and inspire the next generation. FCAS 2025 will be a living museum where stories, culture, and legacy converge."

Event Details:

August 23-24, 2025

Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, Quantum Skyview

Exhibit Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Entrance: Discounted Rates at the Entrance

Join us at FCAS Convention 2025 and be part of a celebration of culture, legacy, and history.

For more information, visit FCASPH's Facebook page.