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SM Hotels Names Kits Pinga as Club General Manager of Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club

By
PhilSociety
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Kits Pinga

SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) proudly announces the appointment of Kits Pinga as Club General Manager of Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club.

A seasoned hospitality and club management executive, Pinga brings more than 20 years of expertise across the hospitality, fitness, and leisure industries. His appointment marks another significant step in SMHCC’s continuing commitment to strengthening operational excellence and enhancing the overall member and guest engagement within its growing portfolio of premier leisure destinations.

Prior to joining Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club, Pinga served as General Manager of Pueblo de Oro Golf and Country Club, where he oversaw overall club operations, financial management, customer relations, and business development initiatives. Throughout his career, he has held management roles in several respected golf and country clubs, including Dakak Golf Club Inc., Calatagan Golf Club Inc., Valley Golf and Country Club, and Alabang Country Club.

Known for his hands-on approach and strong operational discipline, Pinga has built a reputation for elevating service standards while cultivating meaningful relationships with members, guests, and teams alike. His extensive background in managing recreational and membership-driven properties positions him well to lead Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club into its next chapter of growth and excellence.

Located in Nasugbu, Batangas, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club is recognized as one of the country’s premier coastal leisure communities, offering a unique blend of nature, wellness, recreation, and exclusive membership privileges. Under Pinga’s stewardship, the Club aims to further strengthen its position as a preferred destination for families, leisure seekers, and members seeking a well-rounded lifestyle community outside Metro Manila.

In his new role, Pinga will oversee the Club’s overall administration and day-to-day affairs, ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives, service standards, and member engagement initiatives. He is expected to lead efforts focused on operational efficiency, community-building, and the continuous enhancement of the Club’s lifestyle and recreational offerings.

“I am honored to join Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club and be part of a community that has become synonymous with leisure, wellness, and meaningful connections,” said Pinga. “I look forward to working closely with the team in further strengthening the Club’s service culture, enhancing member benefits, and continuing to build on Pico de Loro’s reputation as one of the country’s premier lifestyle and leisure destinations.”

As SMHCC expands its footprint in the country, the appointment of Pinga reinforces the company’s drive to cultivate transformative leadership, elevate guest experiences, and champion world-class Filipino hospitality across its roster of brands.

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

Back-to-school shopping? Here’s why Anko is a must-visit for your kids’ school needs

By
PhilSociety
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Silicone bento lunchbox (₱ 550), Croissant notebook (₱ 220) & Dual function drink bottle (₱ 520) — Courtesy of Anko

It is the time of the year again when parents and children gear up for another school year. It can get hectic with long lists, crowded stores, and multiple errands; the experience  can  quickly  feel  overwhelming  for  even  the  most  organized  parents.

While most families already have their usual shopping stops, many are starting to add an unexpected name to their back-to-school rotation.

Known for its quality, stylish, and affordable home and lifestyle products, Anko has become a reliable destination for affordable school-ready finds. From cute notebooks and organizers to durable lunch gear and study space upgrades, the Australian brand offers a selection designed to help families create brighter school days with less stress and more ease.

A smarter way to tackle the back-to-school list

Beyond the obvious essentials, the start of the school year brings the challenge of creating routines and spaces that help kids stay motivated throughout the year. At Anko, even the most basic school supplies come with playful, stylish details that make everyday studying feel less routine and more like a creative outlet.

It is also the perfect time to refresh the home study setup. Desk organizers and pegboards can instantly make a study nook feel calmer and more functional, helping students focus while keeping clutter under control.

And Anko has tons of quality and affordable supplies and essentials all under ₱100. This includes affordable erasers, sharpeners, pencil cases, sticky notes, and more.

Mealtime essentials matter just as much as what is inside the backpack. Durable lunchboxes and drink bottles have become must-haves for parents looking for reliable options that can withstand the daily school grind, while remaining fun enough that kids actually look forward to bringing them to class.

When buying school essentials, pick options within your price range for your kids to choose from. After all, the most sulit supplies are the ones students actually feel excited to use every day. Anko’s stationery includes a wide selection of everyday school supplies priced as low as ₱20 to ₱100. Whether it’s the start of the school year or a mid-term top-up, parents and students can stock up on the basics without stretching the budget.

Cable organizer (₱490), Cable management box (₱490), Magnetic whiteboard (₱290), Desktop pegboard set (₱1,400) & assortment of stationery ranging from erasers, sharpeners, correction tape and more, starting from ₱20 — Anko

Get ready for back-to-school

To make the back-to-school shopping experience even more fun, Anko is hosting a free Bento Box Workshop on June 6 at its Ayala Malls Feliz branch. Families can learn how to prepare fun, school-ready meals that kids will actually look forward to eating.

Interested parents and kids can register for free using the Anko Club app (anko.com/anko-club) or by following @anko_philippines on Instagram and Facebook. Joining the club unlocks exclusive activities, workshops, and member perks, including access to seasonal in-store experiences throughout the year.

Because when back-to-school shopping feels easier, the school year already starts a little brighter.

For more information, visit https://anko.com/ph/.

The Manila Hotel Joins Goût de France 2026 with Refined French Dining Experience

By
PhilSociety
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Course des Garçons de Café 3rd place - Lexter Guanzon

The Manila Hotel joins the global celebration of Goût de France 2026 with a refined French dining experience at the hotel’s iconic Champagne Room until May 31, 2026.

Guests are invited to delight in a set menu that highlights the richness and sophistication of French cuisine, specially prepared by The Manila Hotel’s culinary team led by Executive Chef Konrad Walter. The Goût de France menu features a classic progression of French flavors, beginning with Puy Lentil Salad with Smoked Duck Breast, followed by Three Onion Soup with Brie Croutons. For the main course, guests may savor Roast Rack of Lamb in Herb Crust served with rosemary garlic jus, accompanied by gratin potato, and market vegetables. The experience concludes with a selection of French cheese, Apple Tart with Frangipane, French macarons, and choice of coffee or tea.

Further highlighting its participation in the international celebration, The Manila Hotel also took part in the Course des Garçons de Café or Waiter’s Race held last May 17 during “Makati Street Meet presents Goût de France.” Representatives from Champagne Room proudly placed 2nd and 3rd, with Alfonso Punzalan and Lexter Guanzon receiving the honors, respectively. The event was also graced by Her Excellency Marie Fontanel, Ambassador of France to the Philippines and Micronesia.

“At The Manila Hotel, we honor global culinary traditions. Our yearly participation in Goût de France reflect our commitment to creating meaningful experiences that connect culture, cuisine, and community,” said Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing.

For more information, call +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph. 

Conrad Manila Strengthens Culinary Excellence with the Appointment of a New Food and Beverage Director and Indian Chef

By
PhilSociety
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From Right: Jaquelyn Sunderarajo, Conrad Manila’s Director of Food & Beverage; Vikram Singh, new Indian Chef

Committed to elevating gastronomic experiences, the luxury hotel by the iconic Manila Bay welcomes new leaders set to introduce fresh and innovative dining concepts.

Conrad Manila is delighted to welcome distinguished additions to its culinary leadership team: Vikram Singh as Indian Chef and Jaquelyn Sunderarajo as Director of Food and Beverage. With their extensive experience and refined expertise, guests can anticipate elevated offerings and thoughtfully curated culinary experiences across the hotel’s signature dining venues.

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome new reinforcements to the culinary powerhouse of Conrad Manila,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of the hotel. “We began the year with exceptional dining experiences, and guests can look forward to even more remarkable moments in the months ahead, especially as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, with Jaquelyn’s strategic direction and Chef Vikram’s passion for authentic cuisine.”

Jaquelyn Sunderarajo brings with her over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, having held leadership roles across some of Singapore’s most well-known hotel brands. Prior to joining Conrad Manila, she led one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most complex food and beverage operations at Hilton Singapore Orchard. She is recognized for driving guest satisfaction, delivering strong commercial performance, and fostering high-performing teams, alongside introducing innovative and compelling dining concepts.

Chef Vikram Singh offers a uniquely inspiring journey into the culinary arts, having spent nearly two decades in the corporate world before pursuing his true passion. Guided by his mother’s culinary heritage, he undertook formal training in international cuisine before deepening his expertise in North Indian gastronomy under her mentorship, continuing a rich family legacy. Today, he is dedicated to showcasing traditional and often lesser-known North Indian cuisines, such as mughlai and awadhi, while preserving their authenticity through the thoughtful use of seasonal ingredients.

Together with Conrad Manila’s Executive Chef and its award-winning culinary team, they have already begun introducing exceptional dining concepts that continue to captivate epicureans and hotel guests alike.

Curries of the World at Brasserie on 3

The Philippines’ Biggest Dessert Buffet at Brasserie on 3

Featuring over 100 meticulously crafted desserts, Conrad Manila unveils Wonderland Reverie, an imaginative and indulgent dessert buffet at Brasserie on 3. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the experience presents seven curated stations that reimagine the classic tale through exquisite sweets and savory creations, inviting guests into a journey of fantasy and flavor.

Wonderland Reverie
25 April to 31 July 2026 
Saturdays and Sundays 
PHP 2,500 nett per person

Signature Curries Across the World at Brasserie on 3

As part of the refreshed themed dinner offerings for 2026, Curries of the World presents a rich and aromatic exploration of curry traditions from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and India, among others. Highlights also include a dedicated laksa station and an array of curated desserts.

Curries of the World
Wednesdays & Thursdays
Until 31 December 2026
PHP 3,600 nett per person

Hermès-inspired Afternoon Tea Indulgence at C Lounge

Conrad Manila invites guests to experience Heures d’Orange, a bespoke Hermès-inspired afternoon tea at C Lounge, curated in collaboration with The Amenity Studio. Available from 27 April to 31 July 2026, this limited-time offering explores the harmony of fragrance and flavor, pairing tea selections inspired by iconic Hermès scent profiles with an elegant assortment of artisanal pastries, refined savory bites, and delicate confections by the hotel’s award-winning pastry team.

Heures d’Orange
27 April to 31 July 2026
12:00pm to 6:00pm
PHP 3,288 ++ per set

As Conrad Manila celebrates its 10th anniversary this June, the hotel looks forward to unveiling more exceptional dining experiences defined by luxury, innovation, and purposeful hospitality. For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.


Queer Ways of Knowing: Reimagining Gender, Learning, and Community in the Philippines

By
PhilSociety
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University College London (UCL), in partnership with the College of Arts and Letters at the University of the Philippines Diliman, launched Queer Community College Philippines (QCCP) as a two‑day free public programme on queer theory, identity, culture, and education held in Manila last April. The initiative builds on the Queer Community College series inaugurated at London’s QUEERCIRCLE in 2024, with support from the British Council.

Against the backdrop of evolving conversations on gender and inclusion in the Philippines, QCCP presents a fresh model for learning that moves beyond classrooms and draws on lived experience, community, and creative practice.

As an open, community‑led platform, QCCP brought together academics, artists, cultural practitioners, and activists from the Philippines and the UK. Through talks, discussions, and creative workshops, participants explored LGBTQIA+ knowledge in ways that were accessible, care‑centred, and grounded in lived experience. Gender and sexuality advocacy group PANTAY collaborated closely on the programme to ensure conversations remained rooted in local realities.

Unlike traditional academic programmes, QCCP welcomed participants regardless of their familiarity with queer theory. Learning unfolded through dialogue, artistic practice, and shared reflection, highlighting how art and education can work together to expand how knowledge is created and shared.

“We don’t necessarily separate educational work from artistic work. We use artistic methods to educate and to discuss topics usually relegated to classrooms and lectures… Artistic practices are part of knowledge production, so they are inherently educational, just as education itself can be creative,” said Dr. Roselle Pineda, College of Arts and Letters, UP Diliman.

For UCL, the programme reflects a commitment to bringing queer ways of knowing beyond academic institutions and into communities.

“Our aim has always been to bring queer ways of knowing and thinking out of academia and into the community to make it accessible and empower communities to drive positive change,” said Dr. Simon Lock, Professor of Science, Politics and Culture at UCL.

QCCP was developed collaboratively by UCL, UP Diliman, and PANTAY, with support from the British Council, bringing together practitioners across disciplines to explore how culture, education, and activism intersect.

“Programmes like Queer Community College are essential to the British Council’s work in the arts,” said Andrei Nikolai Pamintuan, Head of Arts at the British Council Philippines.“Initiatives like this help build a cultural sector that values diversity, nurtures marginalised voices, and enables creatives across the Philippines to thrive.”

Grounded in creativity, care, and community, Queer Community College Philippines shows how inclusive cultural and educational initiatives can spark meaningful exchange, strengthen UK-Philippines connections, and open new conversations on gender and learning.

For more information, visit www.britishcouncil.org 

From 2 wheels to 4: Delivery rider wins BYD Sealion 6 in lucky Jagat Coin Hunt trip

By
PhilSociety
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Jagat, BingoPlus award BYD Sealion 6 DM-i to 30-year-old delivery rider Jess Mar Mallari

Jagat user and delivery rider Jess Mar Mallari received the parcel of a lifetime by snagging a brand-new BYD Sealion 6 DM-i after participating in the ultra-popular, real-life Coin Hunt.

Overcome with emotion at the sprawling BYD dealership in BGC, Taguig, the 30-year-old family man from Tondo, Manila, struggled to find the right words to describe the joy and shock he felt upon discovering the winning card near his home.

“Mayroon na ring tatlong buwan na rin, lagi kaming nauunahan. Ang dami rin kasi talagang naghahanap ng coins,” Mallari said.

“This time nakatiyempo kami na mas nauna kami doon sa mga naghahanap. Di ko naman expected na mayroong [BYD] card, na may prize pa palang ganoong kalaki.”

After three months of playing without any luck, Mallari admitted that his fateful trip to seek the winning BYD card would not have happened had his son not invited him for one more hunt along the infamously chaotic streets of Tondo.

“Actually kakauwi ko lang noon galing trabaho. Tapos nagpahinga lang ako kaunti, pero nagyaya yung anak ko na mag-Jagat. Nakita ko na may malapit sa amin. Natiyempuhan namin wala pang nakakakita,” Mallari continued.

“Ang saya po, sobra. Ilang araw hindi ako makatulog nang maayos. Paano ba naman yung kaba ng dibdib ko, di ko alam kung paano ko ipapaliwanag, kung totoo ba to o hindi. Di ko alam anong klaseng saya yung mararamdaman ko.”

Though admittedly only knowledgeable in driving motorcycles, Mallari said he’s willing to learn or at least ask for help from his friends for a while, as he wants nothing more than to first take his family out on road trips with his brand new BYD, notably worth more than P1.5 million.

Mallari is just one of many lucky Filipinos who have won exciting prizes in the highly successful Coin Hunt event, which used real-world tokens that corresponded to a wide array of prizes, from cash to phones to gaming consoles.

Coincidentally, Mallari is no stranger to winning, as he has also long been an avid patron of BingoPlus, Jagat’s key collaborator in this viral campaign.

The number one and most trusted online entertainment platform in the Philippines, the DigiPlus-owned BingoPlus, was also present at the interactive awarding ceremony at the BYD dealership in BGC, where Mallari gamely posed for photos and shot videos of his newest, most prized possession.

Like most BingoPlus players, Mallari reminded everyone to game responsibly, as he knows full well how great a stroke of luck can feel when chanced upon in moderation.

“Maglaro lang tayo nang naaayon sa estado sa buhay,” he said. “Huwag namang sagarin yung sarili masyado sa pagsusugal. Focus lang sa goal mo at huwag mong ubusin ang pera mo.”

A winner in whatever platform he tries his luck on, Jess Mar Mallari goes back home to Tondo a richer man, having reaped the rewards of his hard work and responsibility.

About DigiPlus

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced the leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging interactive gaming and sports entertainment experiences. DigiPlus also operates GameZone, with more to come. For more information visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

About BingoPlus

BingoPlus is the Philippines’ leading and most comprehensive digital entertainment platform. It has redefined digital gaming in the country. Launched in January 2022, it introduced the first-ever interactive, live-streaming digital bingo platform. BingoPlus is an affiliate of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. and is an advocate for responsible gaming. BingoPlus is licensed by the PAGCOR. For more information, visit www.bingoplus.com.

Belo Performs First-Ever Facial Bone Reconstruction Using Custom 3D Printed Implant in Landmark Scar Project Case 

By
PhilSociety
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Sophia Abalon, an 8-year-old burn survivor

From over 800 submissions, Belo unveils “The First Seven” and reveals major treatment progress.

Belo Medical Group today shared a major update on its ongoing Belo Scar Project, revealing significant progress in the treatment of its first group of patients, now  known as “The First Seven.” Selected from nearly 800 submissions nationwide, these  individuals represent some of the most complex and deeply personal scar cases in the country. 

Since the project’s launch in May 2025, the Belo team has already completed most of the  major surgical procedures for these patients, with ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and long term care now in progress. 

Leading this milestone is a historic surgical achievement: Belo has performed the first-ever facial bone reconstruction in the Philippines using a custom-made, 3D-printed high density polyethylene implant, restoring the underlying structure of a patient’s face with a level  of precision previously unavailable in the local setting. 

The procedure was performed on Kirsten Sofia Barin, a 20-year-old born with multiple facial  clefts — a rare condition where portions of the cheekbones, lips, and surrounding facial  structures did not fully form at birth. This resulted in severe facial asymmetry that could not be  corrected using standard techniques. 

Dr. Hayden Kho with Kirsten Sofia Barin

“Because of the asymmetry and the irregular contour of the defect, there is no pre-fabricated  implant that could give a satisfactory result for Kirsten’s case,” said Dr. Dax Pascasio, the lead  maxillofacial surgeon on the case. “As far as we know, there is no documented case of a facial  cleft repaired using a custom-fabricated HDPE implant in the Philippines.” 

The surgery required careful planning and execution, especially given the complexity of  operating on previously treated areas. 

“Kirsten had already undergone multiple surgeries as a child,” Dr. Pascasio added. “We had to  work around scarred tissue and limited soft tissue available for reconstruction, which makes  reshaping the face much more challenging. This case shows what is possible when you  combine the right expertise with a truly customized approach.” 

The Belo Scar Project is a purpose-driven initiative aimed at providing advanced, fully  customized treatment to individuals living with life-altering scars. The overwhelming response  underscored the scale of need, with hundreds of Filipinos sharing stories of trauma, illness, and  long-term physical and emotional impact. 

“The volume of submissions changed us,” said Dr. Vicki Belo, Founder, Chairwoman, and  Medical Director of the Belo Medical Group. “You begin to realize that scars are truly never just  physical. They shape how people live, what they avoid, and what they believe they deserve. 

Choosing the First Seven was about identifying where we could create the most meaningful  change.” 

Among the seven patients, Sophia Abalon, an 8-year-old burn survivor, embodies the heart of  the project. After surviving a house fire that claimed members of her family, Sophia was left  with extensive burn scars and contractures that limit her mobility. Despite everything she has  endured, Sophia remains joyful. Her dream is simple: to one day be able to dance. 

Catriona Gray with Sophia Abalon

Her treatment involves staged contracture release surgeries, advanced scar remodeling,  rehabilitation, and comprehensive long-term care designed to restore both function and quality  of life. 

Across all seven cases, Belo’s medical team applies a fully customized, multi-disciplinary  approach that combines surgery, laser technologies, regenerative treatments, rehabilitation,  and psychological support. Each case is approached as a long-term journey, recognizing that  meaningful transformation takes time. 

“This project represents a different level of responsibility,” said Gina Lorenzana, CEO of Belo  Medical Group. “We are not treating isolated concerns. We are committing to full journeys. That  requires coordination, discipline, and a system that supports patients every step of the way.” 

For the surgical team, the implications extend beyond a single case. 

“It gives us a glimpse of what is possible for future reconstructive cases in the country,” said  Dr. Pascasio. “With a multi-disciplinary approach and the right resources, we can now achieve  better outcomes even for the most complex craniofacial conditions.” 

The Belo Scar Project will continue to document each patient’s journey, with the goal of raising  awareness, advancing medical practice, and inspiring others who live with visible and invisible  scars. 

“This is only the beginning,” added Dr. Kho. “The First Seven represent what is possible when  you combine compassion with capability. Our hope is that their stories encourage others to  come forward, and remind people that healing is always worth pursuing.” 

Enchanted Kingdom honors all enchanting moms through a month-long Mother’s Day celebration

By
PhilSociety
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Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, celebrates motherhood and family bonding at Forever Enchanted Mother’s Day: A Month-Long Summer Celebration on all weekends of May.

In line with this quarter’s Forever Enchanted Summer campaign, the Laguna-based theme park pays an enchanting tribute to the remarkable women who bring magic into every home with treats, giveaways, themed entertainment, and other experiences around the Park — all included with EK’s Regular Day Passes.

The festivities officially kicked off on May 10 at Eldar’s Theater, which featured complimentary pampering services, such as basic haircut, facial cleansing, and massage therapy, paired with goodies and essentials exclusively for moms.

Mothers and their families also danced and sang along to the energetic performances of EK’s very own P-Pop girl group at their seasonal musical show, SMS Summer Blast.

Adding a heartfelt touch to the celebration, the theme park set up its Letters to Mom dedication wall, allowing guests to share messages of love and appreciation for their mothers.

Lastly, the maternal figures among the EK Stoyverse characters — Faerie Queen and Aruga — along with Eldar the Wizard, made a special appearance in front of the Eldar’s Theater, where they warmly welcomed and interacted with park guests.

More Magic for Mothers

The month-long Mother’s Day celebration continues as EK announces some of its upcoming seasonal shows, deals, and experiences for the remaining weekends of May.

On top of the various pop-up booths featured each week, SMS Summer Blast will keep the energy and radiance alive as the show runs Fridays through Sundays at 4PM and 5:30PM at Eldar’s Theater.

Visiting moms can enjoy heartfelt serenades from Fridays to Sundays by EK’s all-male vocal group Kingsmen, while the award-winning musical group La Salle Green Hills’ Kundirana will perform their special Mother’s Day tribute on May 17. 

Throughout the month, the whole family are in for a royal feast with EK’s Filipino-themed Forever Enchanted Mother’s Day Food Bundle at Amazon Grill and LaunchTime restaurants. In addition, everyone can gift a piece of magic while enjoying enchanting savings on selected EK merchandise with 10% off.

All of these Mother’s Day offerings and other surprises will be waiting for parkgoers alongside with EK’s iconic rides and attractions, as the Park opens Fridays to Sundays from 1PM to 8PM.

*Schedules are subject to change without prior notice.

For more information and updates on this and EK’s other events and offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.

Command Beauty: Why Owning the Narrative is the Most Powerful Move Anyone Can Make

By
PhilSociety
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In an era where beauty standards are often dictated by algorithms and external expectations, a new mindset emerges that encourages individuals to reclaim their narrative—replacing the era of passivity with agency and self-assurance.

To “Command Beauty” is to move beyond the traditional expectations of appearance and into a more active role of self-definition. When one commands their beauty, they are no longer just another face in the crowd. They become the director of their own journey, unapologetically owning their confidence, and creating a shift from being observed to having control.

Command Beauty in Motion

To bring this concept to life, Kojie.san, the first and one of the leading kojic soap brand in the Philippines, recently unveiled a new art film that serves as the visual manifesto for anyone ready to take charge. The film features Japanese aerialist Mizuki Shinagawa, a performer who embodies this spirit of total control.

Watch the Kojie.san ‘Command Beauty’ art film featuring Mizuki Shinagawa.

As Mizuki maneuvers through the air with striking red fabrics, she demonstrates not just a performance, but how to command the space around her with every calculated move. Her discipline and poise serve as a reminder that beauty is an active powerful force—one that requires you to take control every single day.

Shifting the Standard of Confidence

The art film recently premiered an exclusive block screening for media attendees at the Bonifacio High Street Cinema in Central Square Mall, where the manifesto’s message of empowerment was brought to the forefront. The event highlighted the calls for a collected shift toward owning a more commanding presence.

“For the past 20 years, Kojie.san has remained true to its essence, which is to command beauty. It’s about confidence, transformation and owning your place in the world,” shares Kojie.san Group Brand Manager, Nana Borja. “This campaign is about stepping into your moment, owning your journey, and rising with confidence no matter where you start.”

Learn more how to Command Beauty with Kojie.san by following @kojiesanph on Instagram and on Facebook.

Pico de Loro Cove launches its culinary travelogues series with Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico

By
PhilSociety
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The seaside destination unveils its F&B campaign celebrating storytelling, craft, and place.

Pico de Loro Cove, long committed to supporting local communities, further strengthens this advocacy with the launch of Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico, a culinary travelogues series that brings Filipino flavors to life through story.

Framed by the natural beauty of the cove, the series goes beyond the plate—exploring the stories, inspirations, and local connections behind each dish. From thoughtfully sourced ingredients to the creative process of Pico’s culinary team, each episode offers a deeper look into how tradition and innovation come together in every dining experience.

Designed as a journey, it highlights the richness of Filipino cuisine while reinterpreting it through a distinct lens—elevated, intentional, and rooted in community. It reflects the property’s commitment to creating experiences that are not only memorable, but meaningful.

Exploring the province of Batangas, the first episode features one of the property’s sought-after offerings, Fresh Catch—a showcase of seafood sourced from the day’s haul at Wawa Port in Nasugbu. Hosted by Pico de Loro Cove’s own Chef Marlon Granados and Jerick Cahayon, both Batangas natives, the episode follows their visit to local fishermen, offering a glimpse into their daily rhythm and livelihood.

The journey continues back at the cove, where these fresh ingredients are transformed into dishes guests can experience on their next visit.

“At Pico de Loro Cove, food is an experience that connects people to place and to story,” says Leah Magallanes, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability for SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation. “This series allows us to share the heart behind what we do, while honoring the flavors that define us.”

Lasang Lokal, Proudly Pico will roll out across Pico de Loro Cove’s official platforms, inviting audiences to discover, savor, and reconnect with Filipino flavors—one story at a time.

About Pico Sands Hotel

Formally opened in 2011, Pico Sands Hotel is a premier seaside retreat within Pico de Loro Cove, the flagship development of Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas. Designed as a relaxing escape for guests seeking a refreshing coastal getaway, the hotel offers a harmonious blend of tropical contemporary design, comfort, and leisure, set against the backdrop of lush mountains and a tranquil lagoon.

As part of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), Pico Sands Hotel upholds a commitment to service excellence and genuine Filipino hospitality, delivering thoughtfully curated experiences that cater to the evolving needs of its guests. Strategically located beside the Pico de Loro Country Club and just two and a half hours from Manila, the hotel provides access to a wide range of recreational facilities and dining options, each offering distinctive culinary offerings. The hotel features 154 well-appointed guest rooms with captivating views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Pico Sands Hotel is located at Pico de Loro Cove, Hamilo Coast, Barangay Papaya, Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines. Stay connected by visiting www.picosandshotel.com and following us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/picosandshotel), Instagram (@picosandshotel.official), and TikTok (@picosandshotel).

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