Yabu: House of Katsu | SM CITY GRAND CENTRAL

With the grand opening of Yabu: House of Katsu, the vibrant culinary landscape at SM City Grand Central has just become even more tantalizing. This much-anticipated katsu haven has quickly emerged as the go-to lunch and dinner destination, captivating palates with its mouthwatering offerings and delectable signature dishes.

Distinguishing itself from conventional katsu establishments, Yabu's kitchen is helmed by Chef Kazuya Takeda, the maestro behind Tonkatsu Takeshin, one of Tokyo's finest tonkatsu establishments. Chef Takeda has infused his expertise into every dish, ensuring that each bite of the juicy pork and beef cutlets, succulent prawns, and other seafood is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Yabu stands out not only for its expertly crafted katsu but also for the immersive dining experience it offers. The House of Katsu promises a complete culinary journey. Every katsu set is served with Japanese rice, hot miso soup, unlimited shredded cabbage, and a refreshing bowl of fruit.

But the experience doesn't stop there. Yabu also invites diners to embark on a culinary adventure by crafting their own personalized katsu sauce. Each table is adorned with a mini mortar and pestle, allowing guests to grind toasted sesame seeds into Yabu's signature katsu sauce, ensuring a dipping experience tailored to individual tastes.

Embracing a culinary partnership with Michelin-Bib Gourmand-starred Chef Kazuya Takeda, Yabu's commitment to authenticity shines through. Yabu does not just promise a meal; it presents an authentic Japanese experience that transports diners to the bustling streets of Japan.

Yabu: House of Katsu invites Manila's gastronomes to embark on a culinary escapade where tradition meets innovation and every dish is a celebration of flavor. Experience the culinary artistry of Yabu: House of Katsu at the upper ground of SM City Grand Central.

Marian Rivera-Dantes, Home Credit’s flash mob wows all!

Leading Consumer Finance Company’s newest brand ambassador brings holiday cheers at Market! Market! BGC

Home Credit Philippines, the leading consumer finance company, spreads joy and holiday cheer this festive season as it surprises the crowd with a spectacular flash mob performance led by its newest brand ambassador and celebrated actress Marian Rivera-Dantes at the Market! Market! in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig.

Marian, together with Home Credit dancers, delighted the audience with their energetic performance, dancing to the beat of the viral TikTok dance, Sabay-Sabay Tayo, and later transitioning to Home Credit’s theme song, titled Para Sa Life. 

Home Credit also organized a dance challenge for the mallgoers, encouraging them to learn Para Sa Life’s choreography. Those who showcased their moves on social media, tagging Home Credit’s official accounts, snagged exciting prizes.

One of the lucky mallgoers who witnessed Marian's performance, conveyed the incredible experience of seeing the talented actress in action. “Watching Marian perform Sabay-Sabay Tayo not only filled me with excitement but also inspired me to dance along. The energy during that moment was remarkable! Experiencing Marian's live performance is truly unforgettable, and I am grateful to have been at the Market! Market! when the flash mob happened,” she said in Filipino.

Additionally, one of Marian’s long-time fans who got to see her during the event, expressed her excitement about the actress’ latest endorsement. “Throughout the years, Marian has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to achieving her family's goals and providing them with the life they truly deserve. It is this dedication that makes her an ideal fit for Home Credit. Much like Marian's dedication to her family, Home Credit is committed to assisting Filipinos in realizing their goals and aspirations through its innovative products and services, helping them achieve their dreams for themselves and their loved ones,” he shared in a mix of English and Filipino.

Laban Para sa Life Goals

Meanwhile, Home Credit just launched the #LabanParaSaLifeGoals campaign featuring Marian Rivera-Dantes. This campaign encourages breadwinners and families to achieve their life goals through Home Credit. 

#LabanParaSaLifeGoals’ message shines in a heartfelt video recently released by Home Credit. It shows a breadwinner working hard to support her family, and finally having the chance to prioritize both herself and her family because of Home Credit’s easy-on-the-wallet options. 

With Home Credit’s “The Great 0% Festival,” achieving life goals is easier for people like her. This exciting promo includes a 0% interest rate on installment plans of six to 18 months. It covers a range of tech and lifestyle products like laptops, phones, appliances, furniture, and more, found at Home Credit partner stores or Shoppingmall.ph.

If you have not yet seen the #LabanParaSaLifeGoals campaign video, watch it via this link.

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 the Marketplace. 

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). 

Aji-Ginisa, Marian Rivera, and Zia lead the I Love Veggie-licious Movement to usher in the New Era of Cooking

At the Aji-Ginisa® Welcome to a New Veggie-licious Era, held recently at The Blue Leaf McKinley Hill in Taguig, Aji-Ginisa prepared a day of health and fun for kids and their parents. The event marked the official launch of the I Love Veggie-licious Movement, which aims to make vegetable dishes more appealing to children. Marian Rivera-Dantes, a well-known celebrity mom, headlined the festivities, demonstrating their family's favorite vegetable recipes in a special cooking demonstration.

Kazuki Kyoya and his family teams up with Aji-Ginisa®'s ambassador Marian Rivera-Dantes to champion healthy eating habits among Filipino children.

“Parents put a premium on their children’s health and nutrition, but feeding them veggies isn’t always an easy feat,” said Kazuki Kyoya. “Aji-Ginisa® can help them make their dishes more meaty and gisa, so their kids can learn to love vegetables and these healthy recipes can be part of their every meal.” 

“As a mom, I know mealtimes can be challenging. What I do is experiment in the kitchen and try lots of ways to prepare vegetable dishes that are nutritious and yummy,” said Marian. “Our goal is to make our kids try different recipes, so they can grow to enjoy and appreciate the healthy food we prepare.” 

Filipino children, welcomes a new Veggie-licious era with a pledge and red forks on their chest, embracing healthier meals made tastier with Aji-Ginisa. 

The kids from the audience went up on stage for the I Love Veggie-licious Pledge, which was led by Marian’s daughter Zia, and made their promise to love vegetables. Parents and their little ones can also join this pledge online by using the Pledge to I Love Veggie-licious filter on TikTok. For every 1,000 pledges, Ajinomoto commits to lead a feeding program for select beneficiaries nationwide.  

Attendees also had the opportunity to try making their own veggie-licious dishes during the event. As they sprinkle their Aji-Ginisa on their veggies, kids and parents also had fun in their stations by doing the Shake Shake Dance to the beat of the music to make their veggies veggie-licious. 

Ajinomoto is bringing the I Love Veggie-licious Movement nationwide, bringing the Aji-Ginisa® Veggie-licious Caravan to different schools to carry out taste tests, veg-ucation programs, and more. The Caravan will also roll out in key malls across the metro to introduce delicious veggie dishes kids will enjoy.

The I Love Veggie-licious Movement is a part of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s commitment to nutrition that does not compromise taste, access, and the local way of life. The company is doing this by developing comprehensive programs with like-minded organizations, and providing new products and services that address health and nutrition issues. 

Know more about the Aji-Ginisa® I Love Veggie-licious Movement by visiting Cookmunity by Ajinomoto PH. 

BIDA Fiber: The Most Affordable Postpaid Fiber Powered by Converge Expands Footprint in NCR

Leading fiber broadband provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. has launched the most affordable postpaid fiber plan yet, BIDA Fiber in the southern cities of the National Capital Region.

The postpaid fiber plan offers reliable and fast internet with a budgeted monthly subscription, aiming to capture the mass market in the region. BIDA Fiber, at the price of PHP 888 monthly, is the best-priced postpaid internet plan today.

BIDA Fiber Head John Martin Nery at the BIDA Fiber Media Launch shares the background of the most affordable fiber postpaid plan yet.

Converge BIDA Fiber mounted a launching event at Pio Garden Restaurant in Las Piñas last Friday (November 24, 2023) for the residents of Las Piñas and Parañaque. BIDA Fiber has been gaining favorable support from budget-conscious local subscribers since its launch in San Nicolas, Cebu, last September.

“As we champion digital access to the mass markets, we are encouraged by the take-up of the BIDA fiber brand which is now gradually expanding its presence in NCR. We will bring the affordability and best-in-class fiber connection that Converge is known for in more regions by year-end,” said Converge Regional General Manager for NCR Jay Villalobos.

For only PHP 888 per month, BIDA Fiber subscribers will get to connect up to six WiFi-enabled gadgets simultaneously and enjoy using them for online classes, working-from-home setup, connecting to loved ones abroad, and online gaming.

Converge Vice President and Regional General Manager - NCR Jay Villalobos delivers his remarks for the BIDA Fiber Media Launch at Pio Garden Restaurant, Las Piñas City.

Converge aims to serve Filipinos with reliable, fast, and affordable fiber internet. “In today’s economy, we want to make sure customers realize more savings in their internet subscription. With BIDA Fiber, Filipinos may get the same, world-class connection at a price lower than the prevailing average cost of a postpaid fiber internet plan. It’s always a question of quality over price, but with BIDA, they don’t have to choose. We offer both," Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy shares. BIDA Fiber has no data cap, which is an advantage for every household that has unique internet activities for each member of the house: web browsing, content creation, studies, and online gaming.

In addition, BIDA Fiber subscribers will also get complimentary access to BlastTV. Offered as a free value-added service (VAS) under the Converge first-in-the-market initiative. This complimentary access elevates the viewing experience of every Filipino through BlastTV.

This second half of the year, the number of subscribers of BIDA Fiber has been experiencing double-digit growth.

As the growing residential subscribers of Converge, the leading fiber broadband provider is eyeing next to expanding the presence of BIDA Fiber throughout the region of South Luzon before the end of the year: Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, and Quezon Province. Currently, BIDA Fiber is present in 588 cities and municipalities across the Philippines.

Save the Children Philippines launched "Tayo ang Pasko" campaign

“Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others? ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

What are we doing for those in our neighborhoods and communities who need our help?

With the spirit of "malasakit" and the joyous season of giving just around the corner, Save the Children Philippines launched "Tayo ang Pasko," Beyond the Bowl, last November 23 at the historic Manila Clock Tower. This is a campaign that aims to raise awareness and call for action to embody the spirit of the holiday season, especially among children.

"Tayo ang Pasko" invites everyone to join hands in collective action, making this holiday season one of reflection and fulfillment as well as joy and celebration. The latter is attained by giving and feeling fulfilled.

Save the Children, on the other hand, encourages everyone to think beyond food distribution as a way to spread Christmas cheer. As a result, the solution to our gift-giving should go "beyond the bowl," which requires us all to recognize and break the intricate web of factors that contribute to hunger.

The bowl is a powerful symbol of child hunger in our country. Beyond the Bowl encourages everyone to respond not only to the immediate need for food, but also to recognize the importance of supporting those who produce the food and are hungry themselves.

 Atty. Alberto Muyot,  President
Save the Children Philippines

"With this campaign, we aim to ignite a conversation, a narrative of change, where every participant becomes a co-actor. The bowls not only foster creativity but will also serve as a tangible commitment to filling them, ensuring that our children and farmers see brighter, more secure tomorrows," said Save the Children Philippines President Atty. Alberto Muyot.

Ria Atayde, Save the Children Ambassador inscribing her pledge to combat child hunger

During the event,  Beyond the Bowl provided an interactive experience by inviting guests to participate by inscribing pledges and heartfelt messages into bowls in order to make a tangible commitment to ending child hunger.

Save the Children Executives,  Ambassadors showcasing the Fulfillment Band

Get this fancy yet momentous fulfillment band by donating atleast P1000 to Save The Children 

Guests were also introduced to the Give to Save project by Save the Children, a gift-giving initiative, and the Fulfillment Band, which serves as a symbol of hope and collective effort in the campaign. These elements reinforce the message that every participant is important in providing hope, nourishment, and a brighter future for Filipino children.

"Tayo Ang Pasko" embodies Save the Children Philippines' unwavering commitment to addressing the country's food crisis and child hunger. With so many children going to school on an empty stomach, the mission is clear: no child should be left behind. Indeed, "Tayo ang Pasko"—all of us coming together to make this season meaningful for the most vulnerable children.

You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.

Live the Christmas spirit through "Tayo ang Pasko," and you'll be helping to secure a brighter future for our children and our country!

Please contact Save the Children Philippines at 8852-7283 or visit their website at https://www.savethechildren.org.ph/ for more information.

When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed. ❤️

Puerto Princesa: Cruising to be a Top MICE Destination

The Covid-19 Pandemic, which crippled the tourism industry, is still being felt in the Philippines. To forge ahead and move forward, Puerto Princesa, the "Heart of the Best Island in the World," harnesses its vast potential not only as a preferred destination of choice but also as a preferred center of MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and events)..  

 

Paradise in Profile 

 

Puerto Princesa is the center of trade and commerce, education, communications, and public administration of Palawan. Its strategic location is within the growth corridor of the BIMP East ASEAN Growth Area.  

 

Known for its UNESCO World Heritage site Underground River, it shares 50 percent of the tourist arrivals in Palawan and in the region, making it the biggest contributor to its economic growth. In 2020, Palawan logged a partial number of 157,051 tourist arrivals, 71,889 of which were visits to PPC.  

 

A tropical paradise with a bustling urban center perfect for business-with-leisure trips, PP is blessed with lush rainforests and white-sand beaches hours away from the city proper, where a banking and commercial boom has made life easier for workaholics and busybodies. 

 

Puerto Princesa is a relatively young settlement, having been established as a city only in 1970. The first settlers arrived on March 4, 1872; a date celebrated every year as the foundation day of the city. 

 

As part of the Philippines’ last frontier, the city is rich in natural resources. It is the country’s largest city with a land area of 253,982 hectares. A chain of mountain ranges runs through the entire length of the city, dividing it into two distinct areas – the East Coast and the West Coast.  

 

A significant portion of the city retains its indigenous vegetation, rainforest, mangroves, and coastal ecosystem, all of which support an amazing array of wildlife. In terms of species biodiversity and its wide range of ecosystems, Puerto Princesa is of national significance.  

 

The famous and must-visit Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, which was formerly known as Saint Paul’s Subterranean River National Park, covering a protected area of 22,202 hectares is a haven to endemic flora and fauna. UNESCO has inscribed the park as a World’s Heritage Site on December 4, 1999.  

 

Calendar of Events 

 

With a tropical climate and the warm welcome of its people, foreign and Filipino tourists can bask in Puerto Princesa’s embrace all-year round. In January is the Chinoy Festival, which celebrates the new year with ground firecrackers at the Chinatown Center, and with dragon dances and lion dances in major malls and hotels. Every February 14 is the Love Affair with Nature, which is marked by a mass wedding as well as letting citizens express their love for Mother Nature through participating in mangrove tree planting activities. 

 

In March is the Balayong Festival, which commemorates the founding anniversary of Puerto Princesa highlighted by street dancing, float parade and planting of Palawan Cherry Blossoms. In April is the Pangalipay sa Baybay, a summer extravaganza at the baywalk. Activities kick off with parade and fireworks display, dance competition, cheerdancing and boat race.  

 

In June is the “Pista y ang Cagueban,” a time when citizens celebrate the Feast of the Forest and plant thousands of different tree species.  

 

September is Tourism Month, which is celebrated with great performances, exotic cuisines and a showcase of various talents and services in the local tourism industry. Every third Sunday of September is Coastal Cleanup Day, an international activity whose objective is to preserve and safeguard Mother Earth’s resources along the shorelines.  

 

November is the Subaraw Festival, which is a fun-and-activity-filled celebration of Puerto Princesa’s very rich biodiversity. December celebrates Light a Tree, a merry event where a giant Christmas tree is lit up to start the Yuletide Season. This comes with Christmas carols, dances, and music. 

Mighty MICE 

 

The Department of Tourism sees the huge potential of Puerto Princesa, a city known for its remarkable attributes in MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), as a preferred location for meetings, incentives, conferences, and events (MICE). 

 

In May, Regional Director Zeny Pallugna of DOT MIMAROPA in a discussion with City Tourism Department (CTD) chief Demetrio Alvior Jr. Said they are pushing for Puerto Princesa as a MICE destination, where tourists can be enticed to stay longer to enjoy the city’s attractions. 

 

During the “Amos Ta Ren sa Puerto Princesa” radio show, Pallugna said that the city is well on its way into becoming a MICE location because of it is capable of hosting events such as Ironman 70.3 Puerto Princesa and an international dragon boat competition. 

 

“Aside from that, maybe in the future we can conduct a 101 on MICE. We can do that, and then identify the different function facilities for the MICE market,” Pallugna said, as quoted by Palawan News, so the regional tourism office can start promoting the city at the end of the year, or next year. 

 

Another goal for Palawan, Pallugna emphasized, is to train more community tour guides, and recalibrate their skills continuously, so they could help promote and showcase the “Filipino brand of service” globally. 

 

“The second thing is—MIMAROPA is, whether they like it or not, we are the cruise capital of the Philippines. Imagine it, we have 139 cruise calls in the Philippines, 22 of them is in Puerto Princesa; 41 total within the MIMAROPA Region,” Pallugna pointed out. 

 

The regional director of the DOT also mentioned that they plan to introduce the national program called “Philippine Experience” to the city, which includes the well-received Suroy-Suroy sa Sugbo, which the local tourism body plans to replicate. 

 

Alvior, meanwhile, said that Puerto Princesa’s main focus is on the MICE industry. As such, City Mayor Lucilo Bayron actively encourages investors and venture capitalists to build convention centers in strategic areas such as Quito and the environmental estate in Barangay Sta. Lucia. 

 

“Actually, we were discussing tourism activities, and the mayor suggested that we should expand the Quito area. There is a focus on MICE, so we are working on establishing convention centers,” Alvior was quoted by Palawan News. 

 

 

Cruise Capital  

 

This November, Puerto Princesa City enjoyed a surge in tourist arrivals with the celebration of the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival, which drew international participants, and the scheduled arrivals of more cruise ships as Christmas approaches. 

 

During the opening ceremny of the Subaraw Biodiversity Festival, Mayor Lucilo Bayron said that the aim of the city to make the event international is once again gaining momentum after being adversely impacted by the pandemic. In recent years. 

 

“We need to add more international events to attract more tourists from other countries. And this year, we have incorporated international events in the celebration – wild bird photography race, Ironman 70.3 challenge, and international dragon boat race. Our Miss Subaraw is already a national event with the winner coming from Angeles, Pampanga, and this year, we already have 10 foreign candidates,” Mayor Bayron said, as quoted by Palawan News. 

 

Meanwhile, a luxury ocean liner called MS Silver Whisper dropped anchor in the city in early November, indicating greater opportunities for the local tourism industry to prosper. 

 

Touted as a cruise ship for the rich and famous, the MS Silver Whisper brought 382 vacationers and a crew of around 300. Registered in Nassau, Bahamas, the 610-foot, 10-storey vessel is operated by Monaco-headquartered Silversea Cruises. 

 

The MS Silver Whisper is the first of six cruise ships that will be visiting Puerto Princesa’s shores this November, the City Tourism Department excitedly announced. 

 

CTD chief Demetrio Alvior, Jr. said that guests aboard the ship will tour several key attractions in Puerto Princesa, with the underground river in Barangay Cabayugan on top of the list. The ship will then sail off to their next port of call in Coron, also in Palawan. 

 

The city anticipates heightened tourism and overall economic activity with upcoming cruise ship arrivals scheduled on November 4, 8, 16, 18 and 28, Alvior shared. 

 

Five more massive vessels are scheduled to arrive in November and December will welcome the MV Norwegian Jewel and the MV Aida Bella. The MV Norwegian Jewel will bring in about 2,500 people; the MS Westerdam, 1,964 individuals; and the MS Star Breeze, around 327 passengers. 

 

Alvior noted that unlike in the past when international tourists arrived mainly by airplane, the city’s expanded tourism program has paved the way for more visitors to arrive by sea. 

 

The city official said that stakeholders in the tourism sector are being encouraged to provide exemplary service that will showcase the renowned Filipino hospitality to solidify Puerto Princesa’s place as a tourism center and give the local economy a much-needed boost.  

 

Alvior also encouraged Puerto Princesa’s tourism frontliners to treat all visitors with the highest level of care and to exemplify the unique Filipino standard of service. 

 

“The influx of tourists will keep us on our toes, but it's a bustling pace we look forward to," Alvior told Palawan News. 

 

Your Song of Excellence Season 3's Jam-packed Finals Night Welcomes Newest Grand Champions

Your Song of Excellence culminates its 3rd season with a group photo of the Grand Finalists with the Celebrity Judges and host, and the VIPs from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, Taiwan External Trade Development Council, and Taiwan Trade Center Manila who made the event possible.

Your Song of Excellence 2023, Taiwan Excellence's search for the best singers and songwriters in the Philippines co-presented by Aromase, Derma Angel, and Johnson Fitness & Wellness, concluded its third-year run this Saturday, November 18, 2023, at the Ayala Malls Market! Market! Taguig City.

The Live Grand Finals Event witnessed a celebration of outstanding Filipino talent, with the Top 3 Grand Finalists from both the Singer and Songwriter Categories fighting it out until the bitter end. The Finale began with an energizing performance of the Your Song of Excellence 2023 jingle by Celebrity Judges Yeng Constantino, Arthur Nery, Ice Seguerra, and Paulo Zarate before battling it out on the big stage.

The Judges of Your Song of Excellence 2023 (From left to right: Paulo Zarate, Arthur Nery, Ice Seguerra, and Yeng Constantino)

This Grand Finals performance round for the Singer Category was nothing short of incredible, with three powerhouse performers who have been shaped by their respective singing journeys, each of which led to the Grand Finals stage. In the end, Julius Cawaling triumphed with two equally thrilling performances, defeating first runner Louise Alivio and second runner-up Alyssa Erasquin to the victory, and what a race it was.

The battle for Grand Champion in the Songwriter Category was another close race. It was time for the Final Three Songwriters to perform their fully realized Grand Finals songs in front of a large audience. These talented composers fought their way through their creative storytelling and melodies with their partner singers, with every lyric tugging at the audience's heartstrings. Lyndon Nagar takes first place in the Songwriters category, beating out Juls Burce and Popa Elorde.

Helping to present the awards to the winning contestants were VIPs, Mr. Dustin Yang, Minister of Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, Mr. Alex Lai, Director of Taiwan Trade Center Manila, Ms. Christine Kuo, Manager of Taiwan Trade Center Manila, Ms. Janine Tan, Senior Project Manager of Taiwan Trade Center Manila, Ms. Yvonne Hsiao, Project Manager of Taiwan External Trade Development Council, and Ms. Valerie Lin, Project Manager of Taiwan External Trade Development Council, making the event even more special with their esteemed presence.

Julius Cawaling is announced as the Grand Champion for the Singer category of Your Song of Excellence 2023

Lyndon Nagar is the Songwriter Grand Champion for Your Song of Excellence 2023

The Grand Champions received a P50,000 cash prize and P50,000 worth of products each. The 1st Runners Up won P30,000 cash prize each while the 2nd Runners Up won P20,000 cash each, as well as P50,000 worth of products each runner up.

The Live Grand Finals Event was also streamed live on the Taiwan Excellence (PH) Facebook page. View it here: https://bit.ly/YSOE3GrandFinals

Your Song of Excellence 2023 is also in partnership with Acer Philippines, Annie’s Way, ASUS Philippines, FECA PH, ible Tech, MSI Philippines, PC Express, Predator Gaming, Republic of Gamers, and Tatung.

Don’t forget to like and follow Taiwan Excellence’s Social Media pages: FB: https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph IG: @taiwanexcellence_ph

Rex Education Joins Thousands as Pilgrims of Hope on the Path to Synodality at the 2023 CEAP National Convention

This year's CEAP National Convention is especially significant in an era of unprecedented educational challenges and transformations. CEAP has been at the forefront of transformative education, advocacy, solidarity, and synodality for many years. Every year, this incomparable event brings together educators, administrators, stakeholders, and partners to exchange ideas, address the educational sector's ever-changing needs and challenges, and celebrate as a community.

Rex Education also witnessed that the CEAP National Convention is also a spiritual and intellectual journey, an odyssey that reflects the member institutions and partners’ common aspirations to inspire hope, navigate challenges, and promote quality education for all, with Catholic faith at the core. This year's convention, bearing the theme "Pilgrims of Hope: Exploring Pathways to Synodality" is a testament to CEAP’s continuing journey and support of the Church and society through the promotion of Filipino Catholic education. Rex Education is grateful to be part of the CEAP convention.

In this journey, REX, with its decades-long commitment to Philippine education steps onto the convention stage reaffirming its role as duty-bearers of education and an ally to educators and educational institutions, including Catholic schools and organizations, among others. The theme of synodality—journeying together as people of God—is intricately woven into the fabric of REX's story and its mission to nurture every child for lifelong learning—a journey of a lifetime, for every Filipino whole learner.

Rex Education Hub: Paths to Lifelong Learning 

For the CEAP convention, REX brought back its Educational Hub, featuring its diverse and extensive collection of educational resources spanning early childhood education through the formative years in K–12 and to higher education and professional or adult education. Rex Education’s wide array of quality and thoughtfully developed learning materials have been designed for every learner, from early childhood to adulthood, REX is present in every stage and an opportunity for the child to learn, be happy, and succeed in life.

REX’s resources also offer a comprehensive selection of solutions for teachers, parents, and learning companions, all to complement and enrich teaching and learning processes and experiences, including values that foster learner development.

Under Early Childhood Education (ECE), REX exhibited its Little Explorers brand with over 100 titles, including the Hello Animals books. With a focus on values and holistic development, they are designed to stimulate young minds, encourage creativity, and lay the foundations for lifelong learning.

REX also offers a broad range of resources for the K–12 program. For this year, REX introduced some of its latest titles for 2024. These include worktexts in Science, Math, and Language, aligned with the evolving needs of learners, educators, and educational institutions.

As learners progress to higher education and embark on their professional journey, REX continues its committed presence in their overall growth. REX also unveiled its latest educational resources at the event, encompassing various fields, including Business and Accountancy, Criminal Justice Education, Teacher Education, Hospitality and Tourism, and General Education programs. These newly introduced materials are expected to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and values required to excel in their chosen career paths.

REX's participation at the 2023 CEAP National Convention goes far beyond featuring its educational resources. It symbolizes dedication to learners of all ages. It is also a testament to Rex Education’s unwavering commitment, just as with the other CEAP delegates, to journey together, with hope, toward a brighter future for Philippine education.

REX supports DepEd's MATATAG Agenda 

REX's participation at the convention is also a resounding declaration of support for DepEd's newly launched MATATAG Curriculum. The MATATAG Curriculum is expected to decongest the present K to 12 Curriculum by reducing the number of competencies and focusing more on the development of foundational skills, and in the process improve students’ learning outcomes.

"REX is in full support of the MATATAG agenda, particularly the initiative of making the curriculum relevant to produce job-ready, active, and responsible citizens," said Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer of Rex Education. "We believe that the implementation of the new curriculum will further enhance the quality of education in the Philippines and contribute to the holistic development of our learners."

REX's dedication to this agenda goes beyond words; it is reflected in its initiatives and actions. REX engages education duty-bearers, Edukampyons, and aims to build their capacities for respecting, protecting, and fulfilling every Filipino learner’s right to quality education. As such, REX continues to collaborate with curriculum development experts, respected authors, seasoned educators, subject area coordinators, and other subject matter specialists in the development of quality learning materials.

Overall, the 2023 CEAP National Convention remains a force and inspiration for the Catholic faithful in the educational sector and a symbol of resilience and hope for today’s generation and the future. Held on October 17–20, 2023, at the Water Front Hotel, Cebu City, CEAP 2023 successfully brought together over 3,000 delegates nationwide.

EyeSite cataract surgery saved the vision of a 9-year-old boy

Prince Taberna with his mom Daisy May Taberna at EyeSite Mandaluyong

A boy from Pangasinan is on his way to regaining his clear eyesight after suffering from blurry vision for the past five years, thanks to the GMA Kapuso Foundation and EyeSite Mandaluyong.

“Sa wakas, matatapos na rin ang paghihirap niya sa mga mata niya,” said Daisy May Taberna, mother of 9-year-old Prince who recently underwent cataract surgery at EyeSite Mandaluyong, a full-service eye clinic. “Makakakita na uli siya nang mabuti. Makakapag-aral na siya nang mas maigi.” 

Since he was four years old, Prince has been tripping over things and insisting on playing with his phone in the dark, even during the day, according to Mrs. Taberna. He was then taken to their neighborhood eye doctor, who diagnosed him with cataracts in both eyes. 

She stated that she was advised to have the procedure done in a more modern facility than the hospitals in Pangasinan. Mrs. Taberna was able to connect with EyeSite Mandaluyong and schedule an appointment to have Prince's cataracts removed thanks to the GMA Kapuso Foundation.  

"Nung pinasok siya sa operating room, ayaw niya magpaiwan. Nagwawala. Kaya hinintay ko siya makatulog," Mrs. Taberna said as she recalled the day of the surgery. Prince, who started getting blurry vision at age four, thought his eyeballs would be plucked out.

"Pag-gising niya nag-wi-wild kasi gusto kamutin mata niya," she added. "Talagang makulit si Prince."

Prince is now recovering and will visit EyeSite in December for his eyeglasses prescription. 

According to Dr. Michelle Lingao, the ophthalmic surgeon at EyeSite Mandaluyong who performed the procedure, Prince is doing exceptionally well post-surgery because, oftentimes, when a person develops cataracts at a young age and has them removed only at a later age, the vision is no longer as clear.  

Dr. Lingao advises parents to have their child undergo vision screening as early as 2 years old or when they reach school age to avoid delayed treatment. Screening should begin as early as infancy for those with a family history of childhood cataracts. 

"I have seen a lot of kids who, at first, were thought to be experiencing developmental delays, or were just lazy or struggling academically. Only to find out that they have poor vision," she said. 

"If a child tends to go near the TV or reads books too close to their face, frequently tumbles, or if their head is turned to the side when looking at something, the parent should immediately bring the child to an eye doctor."

EyeSite Mandaluyong has firmly established itself as a one-stop eye care center for all eye care needs, with its state-of-the-art operating facility catering to both children and adults in need of sight-saving procedures such as cataract and glaucoma surgery. EyeSite Mandaluyong provides a comprehensive eye examination using cutting-edge technology to effectively diagnose a child. This enables EyeSite Mandaluyong to treat a wide range of conditions, from those affecting the outer layer of the eye, such as style and ptosis, to those affecting the inner layer, such as retina and nerve problems.   

EyeSite Mandaluyong is a joint venture between the Asian Eye Institute and RelianceUnited, a company under United Laboratories (Unilab) that aligns with Unilab's mission to provide “Trusted Quality Healthcare.” The clinic directly addresses the changing healthcare needs of Filipinos in the new normal and its services include general ophthalmology, pediatric ophthalmology, and optical retail.

For consultations and other services, the clinic can be contacted via the mobile number (0966) 9501-464 or visited at Level C, Williams Center, Williams St., corner Mayflower St., Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City. 

For more information about EyeSite Mandaluyong’s #SerbisyongSulitAlagangMaaasahan, please visit eyesitemandaluyong.com.

Your Song of Excellence 2023 Product Exhibit & B2B Day Event a Success for Taiwan's Excellence Awarded Brands

Your Song of Excellence 2023 wrapped up its third season with an epic Grand Finals weekend at Ayala Malls Market! Market! This November 17 and 18, 2023, in Taguig.

Aromase, Derma Angel, and Johnson Fitness & Wellness co-presented the contest, which honored Taiwan Excellence Partner Brands with a B2B Day Event and Product Exhibit on the first day of its 2-Day Grand Finale Event.

Featuring some of the finest award-winning Taiwan Excellence brands and their standard defining quality products, the event beheld an afternoon of brand talks and a short business-to-business meeting session for attendees who were interested in hearing best industry practices from these brand representatives.

“It’s always a joy to fly our flag as a Taiwan Excellence awarded brand,” says the Johnson Fitness & Wellness representative.

A representative from Derma Angel is thankful for the first-time partnership, “We’re happy to be finally partnered with Your Song of Excellence this year because Filipino talent is undeniably world-class.”

Aromase, another Premier Partner attended the event with their representatives through Zoom and is happy for the visibility gained in the Filipino market. “We are looking forward to next year’s endeavors in the Philippines as our brand has strong potential to find a market there,” shares the Aromase representative.

View the event highlights here: https://bit.ly/TaiwanExcellenceB2BEvent

Your Song of Excellence 2023 is also in partnership with Acer Philippines, Annie’s Way, ASUS Philippines, FECA PH, ible Tech, MSI Philippines, PC Express, Predator Gaming, Republic of Gamers, and Tatung.

Tanduay's New Calendar Girl is The Daring Julia Barretto.

Tanduay has announced Julia Barretto as the 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl.

"Tanduay will be celebrating its 170th anniversary in 2024, and we wanted to represent the brand with a strong, confident, and hardworking personality." "Julia, like Tanduay, has overcome many obstacles in her career and emerged happy and successful," the brand said in a statement.

The World’s Number 1 rum added that Barretto has a fire in her soul and is not afraid to show the world her truest self.

“In representing Tanduay, she shows the world that the brand champions courage and empowerment,” Tanduay said.

The 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl was presented to the members of the media at Elements in ETON Centris. According to Tanduay, their creative team worked with the actress’ style team for the upcoming calendar and they tapped top editorial and commercial photographer BJ Pascual to do the shoot.

Barretto is one of the most popular and talented actresses of her generation. She has been in the industry since she was a child, appearing in numerous top-rating television shows and movies throughout her decades-long career.

The actress is also considered a style icon and is one of the most-followed Filipino celebrities on social media, with 11.4 million followers on Instagram as of this writing.

As the 2024 Tanduay Calendar Girl, Barretto is also scheduled to appear in the brand’s promotional events and materials in the coming year.

“2024 is a big year for Tanduay as it celebrates its 170th anniversary. We have lined up activities that will showcase the brand’s evolution, how it captured the hearts of Filipinos, and how it is now also gaining the attention of rum aficionados in the biggest cities in the world. Julia is going to be a part of these major events,” Tanduay said.

REX Education takes home awards at 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal, 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards

REX Education was recently recognized at the 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal and the 45th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA).

The Quezon Gawad Parangal is held annually in October as part of the local government’s celebration of the city’s founding. The 2023 awards ceremony recognized individuals and institutions who were exemplary in the fields of social work, environment and sanitation, law and justice, business and entrepreneurship, and science and technology.

Rex Education was among the 15 individuals and institutions recognized at this year’s iteration of the prestigious event. The 21st Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal took place on October 25 at the PETA Theater Center.

The selection panel of Quezon City department heads, previous award winners, and respected professionals from various sectors conferred the award to REX for its prominent dedication to educating the masses through literature. The local government also cited REX’s pioneering work in the educational publishing industry, particularly through Rex Book Store, Inc. (RBSI).

RBSI’s contributions to education publishing include learning materials encompassing early childhood education, basic education, high school, tertiary, law, and post-collegiate materials. RBSI takes pride in its extensive network of 24 branches located across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This only further affirms REX’s mission of nurturing every child for lifelong learning. To be the choice learning companion of Filipino learners and to be recognized by the communities REX serves, are a joy and honor.

Four of REX’s published works were also recently recognized at the 45th CMMA. The CMMA is an annual ceremony that pays tribute to individuals and organizations that produce values-filled content through print, broadcast, and social media. The CMMA pre-announced winners virtually on October 27.

REX and Catechetical Media Network (CMN-Asia, Inc.) bagged the Best Children’s Magazine with the publication “Backpack.” Meanwhile, REX and CMN-Asia’s “Crossroads” won in the Best Youth Magazine category.

“Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin (Marketing Our Local Products)” by Allan Alejo Jr., published by REX and CMN-Asia, was recognized as Best Editorial Cartoon. “Si Nelia, Si Marta, at Si Maria” by Felix C. Alcantara, published by REX and CMN-Asia, was acknowledged as Best Comic Story.

These citations further fuel REX's drive and dedication to producing quality learning materials that can inspire spirituality and values among Filipino children. REX always endeavors to contribute to the development of the whole learner— one who is healthy, safe, engaged, supported, challenged, and values-oriented.

In light of these accolades, REX remains inspired to constantly improve and strive for excellence— para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.