Drew, Iya Arellano and kids are BPI AIA’s newest brand ambassadors

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July 11, 2025

Arellanos join forces with BPI AIA to champion healthier lifestyles and futures for Filipino families

BPI AIA Life Assurance Corporation (BPI AIA), the strategic alliance between Bank of the Philippine Islands and AIA Philippines, proudly introduces Drew Arellano and Iya Villania, along with their five children, as its official brand ambassadors. This announcement coincides with the launch of BPI AIA’s “Rethink Healthy” campaign, a health and wellness campaign that aims to change the way people view and approach health.

Well-loved for their active lifestyle, strong family values, and mindful approach to life, the Arellanos embody what it means to live a healthy and well-rounded life. For them, health goes beyond physical—it is about achieving balance and peace of mind across every aspect of life, from mind and body to finances. Their partnership with BPI AIA reinforces the brand’s mission to make holistic wellness a reality for every Filipino household.

“BPI AIA is proud to welcome the Arellano family to help us inspire more Filipinos to ‘Rethink Healthy’ not just as a goal, but as a way of life,” says Karen Custodia, CEO of BPI AIA. “Their authenticity and commitment to overall well-being perfectly mirror our values.”

“It brings us so much excitement to partner with BPI AIA because their mission to help families live healthier, longer, better lives align perfectly with our journey as a family,” shares Iya. “Health isn’t just about workouts or diet plans. It’s about peace of mind, security, and the little daily choices that help us feel whole.”

Redefining ‘healthy’ with BPI AIA

According to AIA Philippines’ 2025 “Rethink Healthy” research study, Filipinos still primarily define “being healthy” as having a healthy body (52%), followed by a healthy mind (30%), healthy finances (12%), and a healthy environment (7%). The same study shows that 59% of Filipinos consider money worries as the top cause of stress, while 80% have a family history of illnesses, most commonly diabetes (32%), heart disease (30%), and obesity (21%).

In response, BPI AIA’s campaign echoes the global “Rethink Healthy” movement by promoting a more inclusive, flexible, and practical approach to well-being, one that embraces physical, mental, financial, and environmental health. It encourages families to strengthen their foundations through simple, sustainable habits and smart planning.

With the Arellanos on board, BPI AIA aims to show that healthy habits do not require perfection, only consistency and intention. From staying active and mindful to making smart financial choices, Drew, Iya, and their five children bring the “Rethink Healthy” mindset to life in a way that feels real, doable, and relatable.

“For us, healthy means balance, physically, emotionally, and financially,” says Drew. “It’s about making mindful choices every day, whether it’s staying active, eating nutritious meals, or securing our family’s future through smart planning. Our top priority is ensuring our kids grow up in a stable and thriving environment.”

Making holistic health a family affair

The Arellanos know that staying healthy requires creativity, commitment, and teamwork. For them, wellness is a family affair. They stay active by incorporating movement into daily routines, such as playing tag with the kids, going on bike rides on weekends, or doing quick home workouts while the kids nap or play. “You just need to move. Make it fun and consistent, even for a few minutes daily,” Drew says.

For Iya, self-care is as vital as parenting. Despite a busy schedule, she makes time for short walks, quiet prayer, or screen-free moments with their children. “Whether it’s cooking together, limiting screen time, or sticking to bedtime routines, these small habits create a culture of wellness at home,” she explains.

Financial health also plays a critical role in their overall well-being. Raising five kids means planning ahead, building emergency savings, investing in education, and securing life and health insurance through BPI AIA.

“We want to provide the best future for our kids,” Iya says. “That means teaching them about money, building good habits, and protecting their dreams with the right tools.” Drew adds, “Partnering with BPI AIA gives us confidence about the future. It’s about finding what works for your family, whether that’s a meal plan, a budget, or a weekend bike ride.”

With the Arellanos leading the charge, BPI AIA is showing that health and happiness start at home. Even the smallest choices, like drinking water, sticking to bedtime, or talking about money, can shape a stronger, healthier future.

Whether you’re just starting your health journey or looking to protect your family’s future, BPI AIA invites every Filipino to take that first step, no matter how small.

We’ve Heard One Side—Now, the Other Speaks

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PhilSociety

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July 11, 2025

When The Juans first released Ano Ba Talaga Tayo, they gave voice to the uncertainty, longing, and quiet frustration of someone caught in a situationship. It was raw, real, and relatable—but it was only one side of the story.

Because for every person brave enough to ask “Ano ba talaga tayo?”, there might be someone on the other end—silent, hesitant, unsure. Maybe they’re just as confused. Maybe they’re afraid to speak up. Maybe they’re waiting, too.

Now, that other side is finally being heard.

The Juans team up with vocal powerhouse Janine Berdin to continue the conversation. Her addition brings fresh perspective and emotional weight, giving a voice to the often-overlooked side of uncertainty—the one that loves, but can’t find the words.

“This collaboration breathed new life into the song in ways we never imagined,” shares The Juans frontman Carl Guevarra. “With this version, it feels like two hearts finally daring to speak. The new arrangement brings that conversation to life, and we hope it resonates with anyone caught between love and the fear of asking.”

What began as a one-sided question now becomes a shared moment. And through this collaboration, maybe we can move a little closer to clarity—or at least, to feeling seen.

Ano Ba Talaga Tayo ft. Janine Berdin is now streaming on all major platforms. Listen now.

Carrier Expands Its Public Cooling Initiative with Ortigas Cool Spot

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PhilSociety

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July 11, 2025

Metro Manila’s unpredictable weather makes commuting a daily challenge for many Filipinos. One moment it’s scorching hot, the next it’s sticky and humid after sudden rain. Recognizing this, Carrier — a global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, and the undisputed leader in HVAC in the Philippines thanks to its decades of expertise, advanced technology, and trusted cooling performance as The Air Authority — is once again transforming urban spaces with the launch of Carrier Cool Spot 2.0 in Ortigas. This innovative activation brings much-needed relief directly to one of the metro’s busiest thoroughfares, reinforcing Carrier’s commitment to purposeful innovation and the well-being of its community.

The first Carrier Cool Spot, which debuted in Bonifacio Global City last year, proved that everyday spaces can become refreshing brand experiences. It garnered significant industry recognition, securing three prestigious Kidlat Awards (Silver for Brand Experience, Bronze for Outdoor, and Bronze for PR) for its groundbreaking approach to creativity and engagement. Building on this success, Carrier now elevates the concept, bringing its signature cooling comfort to Ortigas, a district known for its high foot traffic and demanding commutes.

“Commuting shouldn’t be a battle against the elements,” said Phillip F. Trapaga, President of Concepcion-Carrier Air Conditioning Company. “We designed Cool Spot 2.0 with one purpose: to bring comfort closer to where it’s most needed. This isn’t just an activation. It’s a real-world application of innovation that prioritizes people.”

Carrier Cool Spot 2.0 transforms an ordinary bus stop outside Robinsons Galleria into a place of calm, cool relief. Carrier’s advanced, energy-efficient cooling systems help make the commute more bearable, offering everyday commuters a fresh, comfortable space — whether they’re escaping the heat or trying to feel less sticky and humid after the rain.

These systems use Carrier’s Energenius Inverter Technology, with a 5-star CSPF energy rating and the eco-friendlier R-32 refrigerant with low global warming potential — showing that Carrier, at its core, is not only good for Filipinos, but also good for the planet.

Thousands of commuters who pass through Ortigas every day will now have access to a comfortable, breathable space, thanks to this initiative. As one of Metro Manila’s most congested corridors, Ortigas was a natural next step after the success of BGC. With Cool Spot 2.0, Carrier demonstrates how it can expand its brand promise of comfort beyond private homes, delivering public service in one of the most practical ways possible.

Beyond the cooling technology, Carrier’s approach underscores a bigger purpose: prioritizing the well-being of Filipinos. The Cool Spot is a visible, human-centered gesture that shows that the brand understands the stresses of daily city life. It creates a sense of generosity and community care that goes beyond product messaging, tapping into something more meaningful: helping people feel good, even in the middle of a crowded commute.

Carrier Cool Spot 2.0 officially opened on Friday, July 4, 2025, and is now free for the public to enjoy. Whether you’re waiting for a bus or simply taking a break from the city rush, the Cool Spot is a reminder that with smart innovation, even the most ordinary places can become extraordinary.

“The Cool Spot is our way of giving back to the community,” Trapaga added. “We hope that by experiencing Carrier’s trusted cooling in their daily routines, more Filipinos will feel confident in the quality, performance, and reliability that Carrier brings, so they can truly be Air Confident, whether at home or on the go.”

Signature Series Set to Masterplan its 284-hectare landbank in Susana Heights

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PhilSociety

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July 9, 2025

Php 25 billion initial investment to reimagine a rare address on Metro Manila’s greener side

SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through its premium Signature Series by SM Residences, is set to transform its large tract of land in Susana Heights, Muntinlupa.

Situated on 284 hectares of prime land, Susana Heights has long been admired for its accessibility, natural surroundings, and strategic location. The Signature Series developments will elevate the area’s appeal, introducing a thoughtfully designed master-planned community that seamlessly integrates residential, commercial, and civic spaces. It aims to deliver a lifestyle that is dynamic yet serene, purposefully curated for discerning homeowners seeking refined living.

With an initial Php25 billion capital expenditure, this milestone project marks the beginning of a remarkable renaissance for a community beloved since the 1970s. The investment is intended to develop residential clusters, neighborhood retail, civic spaces, and pocket parks—offering a rare combination of exclusivity, lush greenery, and seamless accessibility. Within this vibrant community, an ultra-luxury village is also being planned.

“Susana Heights, in my opinion, really needs no introduction. It’s a property people have known for generations,” said Jose Juan Jugo, Executive Vice President and Signature Series Group Head. “It’s been there, brewing, appreciating in value, and now we are unlocking its full potential. It is a very powerful address, and there is no other parcel of land this size and this scalable in Metro Manila that is going to be developed from scratch.”

Juan Jugo, Executive Vice President and Signature Series Group Head

With its premium lot offerings designed in a tightly controlled quantum, the Signature Series development will create a prestigious, intimate neighborhood—one that fosters a sense of belonging among residents who value quality, exclusivity, and community.

“You have access to all the key highways here.” Jugo continued. “It’s an address people will feel proud to pass on to the next generation.”

As the flagship site for SM’s Signature Series, the upcoming developments in Susana Heights signal the brand’s commitment to deliver sophisticated, generational homes that stand the test of time. Beyond Muntinlupa, the new premium primary residential line is preparing future projects in Parañaque, Pasay, Taguig, Makati, Cebu, Cavite, Tagaytay, Batangas and Manila to name a few—all carefully selected to balance elevated living with convenience and a sense of community.

“The Signature Series customer will feel a certain level of pride when he buys here,” Jugo concluded. “He will know he made the right decision—that the quality, the thought, the location, and the commitment of the developer are all in place to make everything work seamlessly.”

By elevating a location as iconic as Susana Heights, Signature Series sets the stage for a new era of premium living, where natural beauty, refined design, and trusted development come together to inspire lasting legacies.

The Gleam Team Is Here: K-Beauty’s Moist Mochi Line Highlights Pride

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PhilSociety

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July 8, 2025

Makeup has always been an ally, providing queer kids with an outlet for self-expression. In celebration of Pride Month, Barenbliss Philippines proudly launches its newest products: the Mochi Highlighter and Duo Palette. Both are inspired by the brand’s best-selling Moist Mochi Paste Powder Blush, known for its bouncy texture—a well-loved staple in every BNBae Kit. These new highlighters and the duo palette feature the same unique mochi paste-to-powder formula, now enhanced with a radiant shimmer to restore the face’s natural depth and dimension.

Bouncing Gleam

The Mochi Highlighter is available in three luminous shades—Cranberry Crush, Cream Soda, and Amber Pear—while the Duo Palette comes in Tropical Duo, featuring a brontour in Amber Pear and a highlighter in Honey Champagne. These products check all the boxes: blendability, water resistance, and a 12-hour long-wear formula—making them perfect for Philippine weather and all-day wear.

Seen on the Scene

Continuing the celebration, Barenbliss Philippines hosted a special Pride event, barenbliss: Peach Gleams Pride, at SOS in Poblacion, Makati, last June 19. The event brought together beauty and lifestyle content creators, along with influential voices from the LGBTQ+ community. The night featured a show-stopping drag performance by Bella Fox—a dynamic queen known for her versatility and flair across creative industries. Guests enjoyed free-flowing drinks inspired by barenbliss’ latest releases, including the scene-stealer Peach Makes Perfect Steel Lip Tint, available throughout the month.

Bounce with No Bounds: On Safe Spaces & Makeup

As Pride Month continues, so does barenbliss’ commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community through its “Bounce with No Bounds” campaign—an ode to safe spaces and showing up as your most authentic self, especially in places where you feel most vulnerable and proud.

For this campaign, Barenbliss tapped queer models, a prominent gay influencer (Brian Tabelin @briseemstired), a drag queen in progress (Bella Fox @msbellafox), and a trans icon (Jamie Casino @jamiecasino)—all proudly representing the vibrant spectrum of the community while embracing the power of self-expression and beauty beyond societal norms. With this, barenbliss Philippines invites everyone to glow with pride and celebrate beauty in all its gleaming, joyful forms.

Raffles Sentosa Singapore Celebrates Grand Opening with Culinary and Cultural Excellence

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PhilSociety

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July 8, 2025

Over 150 bottles of champagne were popped, while 48 chefs crafted 6,850 canapés featuring 2.6kg of caviar and other luxurious ingredients

Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the country’s first all-villa resort nestled within 100,000 square metres of lush tropical greenery, commemorated its grand opening with a spectacular celebration on Saturday, 17 May 2025. Hosted by The Royal Group, the exclusive event welcomed more than 500 distinguished guests from Singapore’s business and diplomatic circles for an immersive evening that highlighted the resort’s exceptional dining and event offerings.

The evening began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the resort entrance at 5:00pm, commemorating the grand opening of Raffles Sentosa Singapore. Guests were then invited on a curated journey through the property, experiencing first-hand the elegance of the resort’s lush tropical gardens, its five distinct dining destinations, and spectacular event spaces.

Mr Omer Acar and the owners of Royal Group toast to the grand opening

An Odyssey of Taste and Elegance

From arrival, guests were welcomed in Raffles Room with the resort’s signature Sentosa Sling, a refreshing twist on the Singapore classic made with lemons grown in the resort’s gardens, before embarking on a progressive culinary adventure across the resort. Highlights included:

Royal China, the resort’s refined Cantonese restaurant, where over 1,400 pieces of its signature Royal Peking Duck were served alongside 40kg of Honey-glazed Kurobuta Pork and 25kg of Roasted Pork Belly.
IYASAKA by Hashida, the resort’s omakase-style Japanese restaurant, offered a contemplative tasting of seasonal delicacies like Hotaru Ika (firefly squid) and caviar served atop soft taco shells made from buckwheat flour.
Empire Grill, the resort’s signature modern Italian dining venue, delivered an elevated canapé experience crafted by 48 chefs over 26 hours.

In total, 6,850 canapés were served, using over 2.6kg of caviar among other premium ingredients, complemented by a celebratory 150 bottles of champagne and more than 500 Sentosa Slings.

The main event was held in Raffles Ballroom, a spectacular space with capacity for 400 banquet guests or 600 for standing events. Lavishly transformed for the evening, the ballroom featured food stations from each restaurant and a lineup of live performances, including soprano Seia Lee, jazz vocalist Alemay Fernandez with her band, and a roving performance by renowned Erhu soloist Calista Liaw.

Guests also toured the resort’s two grand ballrooms, each adorned with bespoke Lasvit chandeliers inspired by Singapore orchids, reaffirming Raffles Sentosa Singapore as a premier venue for prestigious occasions.

A New Benchmark for Celebrations

Designed for discerning travellers and curated events, Raffles Sentosa Singapore offers an unparalleled sense of privacy and personalised service. With villas starting from 211 sqm, each featuring its own private pool and terrace, and complemented by world-class dining, the resort sets a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Singapore.

Welcome Home Experience

In celebration of the Grand Opening, guests are invited to enjoy the resort’s Welcome Home experience—a luxurious stay package including private roundtrip transfers, daily breakfast for two at Empire Grill, and a complimentary Sentosa Sling.

This exclusive offer is valid for bookings made before 31 October 2025 for stays through 30 November 2025, with rates starting from S$1,398 per villa per night, subject to 10% service charge and prevailing government tax.

For more information on Raffles Sentosa Singapore or to make a reservation, visit www.raffles.com/sentosa.

Gear Up for ZIC Protech.Pitstop at Ayala Malls Feliz!

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PhilSociety

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July 8, 2025

Calling all car and motorcycle enthusiasts! Get ready as ZIC Philippines, your trusted partner in engine oil, is gearing up for their next exciting event: ZIC Protech.Pitstop at Ayala Malls Feliz!

Happening on July 12 and 13, 2025 at the activity center of Ayala Malls Feliz in Pasig City, ZIC Philippines will be presenting exciting games and programs for all mall-goers during that weekend.

ZIC is the number one preferred engine oil brand in Korea, trusted by millions of motorists and backed by advanced technology from SK Enmove, Korea’s leading lubricant manufacturer.

MAKING THE RIGHT IMPACT

ZIC continues to expand its local visibility through high-impact consumer engagements like the recently concluded SM MOA, and this upcoming weekend, Ayala activation.

In the Philippines, ZIC offers a comprehensive range of engine oils to cater to various vehicle types and needs. In South Korea, ZIC has consistently held the title of the most popular engine oil brand for an impressive 27 consecutive years since 1997. This dominance in its home market speaks volumes about the trust and performance associated with the ZIC brand. In addition, Korean superstars Gong Yoo and Lee Dongwook are the brand ambassadors of ZIC, establishing its credibility in the engine oil industry.

ZIC’s entry into the Philippine market is highlighted by its exceptional performance under extreme heat and urban driving conditions, relevant to Philippine road realities.

ZIC Philippines will be bringing the same excitement that includes immersive brand experience booth, with interactive activities and giveaways, where ZIC Philippines customers can also learn more about ZIC engine oil through the product display and other consumer engagement programs.

A DAY OF FUN AND IMMERSION

Car and motorcycle enthusiasts will get the chance to know more about ZIC, while enjoying games, giveaways, and exciting prizes. These include: one winner of Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, three winners of Galaxy Watch Ultra and four winners of Galaxy Watch7.

The ZIC Protech.Pitstop, happening this weekend, will feature three main activities for all booth visitors: the PROTECH. Challenge, Smooth Buzz Ride, and Piston Power Shot. After completing all three, participants can spin the Prize Roulette for a chance to win additional giveaways from ZIC.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to give your car or motorcycle the ZIC protection it deserves! Troop down to Ayala Malls Feliz next weekend and be part of this special event only from ZIC Philippines!

For more information, visit and follow the official ZIC Philippines Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/zic.philippines, or explore our full product line-up at the official ZIC website: https://skzic.com/eng/index.do.

Related article: Abenson Turns 55 with Month-Long Sale and Weekly Deals

Bea Borres launches Beauty Milk with Dear Face for nighttime support

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PhilSociety

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July 7, 2025

Content creator and beauty personality Bea Borres officially unveiled her latest collaboration with Dear Face: Beauty Milk Strawberries & Cream, a calming nighttime drink formulated to support skin brightening and give a rosy finish.

Held in an intimate soirée with key influencers, the launch event offered guests a first look—and first sip—of the new blend. Inspired by the idea of “beauty reset in a glass,” Strawberries & Cream is positioned as the perfect evening pair to the brand’s daytime staple, Beauty Milk Ichigo.

The duo creates a seamless 24/7 glow routine, with Ichigo offering daytime protection and brightness, while Strawberries & Cream supports whitening, skin calming, and improved rest through the night.

The official launch of the product was held at Seltsam Makati on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Guests at the event were nothing short of regal as they enjoyed the program, which culminated in the reveal of the official campaign video. The stunning Dear Face muse was featured in a majestic gown set in the 1800s, inspired by the romantic period drama Bridgerton.

As Bea shared during the launch, “This is my personal reset ritual—something that helps me feel better, sleep deeper, and still glow the next morning.”

Bea Borres partnered closely with Dear Face in co-creating this latest Beauty Milk variant, blending her distinct approach to skincare with the brand’s innovative formulas. From its early conception, she was deeply involved in defining the product’s key benefits. She also oversaw product testing phases, ensuring the formulation maintained both efficacy and ease of use. Her ongoing feedback helped shape the final composition—making this Beauty Milk a true reflection of her skincare philosophy.

When the product was formulated, it contained skin-brightening ingredients like N-acetyl cysteine, L-glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid, and tranexamic acid. But unlike its claimed pair, the Beauty Milk Ichigo, this variant also promotes a calm mood and relaxed mind through Hibiscus extract, Ashwagandha, and Evening Primrose.

Of course, Bea wouldn’t approve the product without a rosy skin effect — thus, Hibiscus extract, hydrolyzed marine collagen, and licorice root extract were added to the mix.

This revolutionary new variant of their viral Tiktok powdered collagen line is currently up for grabs via their distributors on Tiktok shop and other e-commerce platforms.

Abenson Turns 55 with Month-Long Sale and Weekly Deals

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PhilSociety

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July 5, 2025

Abenson is turning 55, and the celebration is all about giving back to its valued customers!

This July 2025, Abenson kicks off its month-long birthday celebration with a wide array of exciting deals, exclusive promos, and rewarding offers. As a token of appreciation to the communities it proudly serves, Abenson is rolling out thoughtfully curated discounts to make upgrading Filipino homes more convenient, affordable, and rewarding.

Here’s a preview of what shoppers can enjoy during the birthday month:

Birthday Sale (July 1-31)
Birthday Treat: Add-on Deals for P55, P550, P5,500 (July 1-31)
Super Sale: Up to 55% Off (July 1-9)
Birthday Bundles: Buy Me, Get Me at up to 55% off (July 10-16)
Birthday Installment with Free JisuLife (July 17-23)
Appliance Package at P55,000 (July 14-31)

Birthday Sale (July 1–31)

The birthday celebration kicks off with a major sale throughout July! Shoppers can look forward to discounted bundles, such as refrigerators paired with smart TVs, and kitchen sets featuring cooking ranges and rangehoods. Special packages are also part of the lineup, including early access to Birthday Bundles with up to 55% off on add-ons from top brands like Samsung, LG, TCL, Elba, and Hanabishi.

Customers can also score home essentials like a sofa set from abensonHOME or a cozy bed from Emma—with a free pillow to boot!

Two exclusive ₱55,000 appliance packages launch on Day 1. The Haier Package includes a 19 cu.ft. Multi-Door Inverter Refrigerator and a 40-inch Google TV. The Cooling Package features two inverter-equipped air-conditioners from Condura and Carrier. Each package offers a total savings of ₱34,988!

Birthday Treat: Add-on Deals for ₱55, ₱550, ₱5,500 (July 1–31)

Abenson Rewards members can enjoy exclusive Add-on Deals—score a second appliance or gadget for as low as ₱55! Whether it’s an extra smartphone, microwave, or smart TV, members get to bring home more for much less.

Not yet a member? Anyone can sign up by downloading the Abenson app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Super Sale: Up to 55% Off (July 1–9)

For the first week of July, Abenson is offering up to 55% off on select appliances, furniture, and gadgets—a true birthday blowout!

Birthday Bundles: Buy Me, Get Me at 55% Off (July 10–16)

From July 10 to 16, shoppers can enjoy huge savings when purchasing home essentials with a bundled second item at 55% off. Select items apply—perfect for doubling the value!

Birthday Installment with Free JisuLife (July 17–23)

Buy now and pay later with up to 24-month installment plans at 0% interest. Plus, shoppers will receive a free JisuLife fan as a birthday gift from Abenson.

Appliance Packages at ₱55,000 (July 14–31)

Three exciting appliance bundles are available for just ₱55,000! Choose from two Cooking Packages or one Entertainment Package—each carefully designed to offer incredible value.

As an added birthday treat, Abenson Rewards members will receive 2x eCashback during the 7.7 Sale and every weekend of July—that’s double the points on top of all the discounts and freebies!

Don’t miss the Abenson 55th Birthday Sale happening all month long at over 150 Abenson stores nationwide and online at abenson.com.

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DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-227498 Series of 2025

CDO Celebrates Golden Anniversary with Grand Tribute

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PhilSociety

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July 5, 2025

CDO Foodsphere, Inc. marked its golden anniversary with a two-day celebration on June 24 and 25, honoring five decades of partnership, purpose, and people. The festivities were held at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, bringing together more than 2,000 guests, including trade, industry partners, and government officials on the first day and 4,000 employees from across the organization on the second day.

CDO Foodsphere, Inc. is one of the Philippines’ largest and most trusted homegrown food companies. Over the past five decades, it has made a significant impact on the nation’s food industry and on the lives of millions of Filipino consumers—offering quality, affordable food products that bring families together. Its 50th anniversary is a celebration of a company that started from a simple home kitchen and has grown into a key part of Filipino mealtimes, contributing to the local economy, supporting communities, and championing Filipino entrepreneurship.

The milestone event was led by Founder and Chairperson Corazon Dayro Ong, who looked back on the company’s simple beginnings in their small kitchen in Valenzuela. “My dream was simple: to create food that brings the warmth of home. I never dreamt of having this large of an enterprise,” she said, offering heartfelt thanks to the partners and the broader community that helped make the journey possible.

President and CEO Jerome D. Ong emphasized how CDO’s growth is deeply rooted in collaboration. “This celebration is not just about us, it’s about all of you who believed in us, stood by us, and helped us grow,” he shared. He also spoke about the company’s transformation journey, emphasizing the need to be relevant and responsive to the needs of its customers through innovation, leadership, and a commitment to building a better future.

During the external celebration on June 24, Dr. Charmaine Ong-Castro, Senior Vice President for Corporate Purchasing, Treasury, and Governance, recognized the integral role of its partners in the company’s success. She delivered a message of gratitude, acknowledging the enduring trust and support of CDO’s suppliers, trade partners, and stakeholders over the last five decades.

Jason D. Ong, Vice President for Emerging Businesses, spoke of CDO’s broader mission to uplift lives, not just through food and advocacy but also through product innovation that responds to evolving consumer needs and drives lasting impact. He highlighted the work of the Odyssey Foundation, CDO’s corporate social responsibility arm, and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nation-building through its programs in Kalusugan (health), Kabuhayan (livelihood), Karunungan (education), and Kalikasan (environment).

June 25 saw the company honor its employees, gathering over 4,000 team members on the second day for a meaningful internal event. The program paid tribute to the late Jose J. Ong, CDO’s co-founder and husband of Corazon Ong. His role as both a visionary and driving force in CDO’s early days was remembered with deep respect and affection.

In his remarks, Jerome Ong reaffirmed the company’s promise to invest in its people and remain future-ready. “This 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past; it is a commitment to our future,” he shared.

Their people-first focus is central to CDO’s success. As part of the celebration, the company launched the Golden Spoon Awards to recognize employees for their outstanding performance, contributions, and embodiment of company values. CDO also honored long-serving team members, including 80 remarkable individuals who have been with the organization for 30 to 44 years. A surprise special award was given to the Founder for 50 years of service. Through these tributes, CDO affirms that its greatest strength lies in its people, their passion, commitment, and dedication they bring to their roles.

Both days were elevated by electrifying performances from some of the country’s biggest stars. For the external celebration, CDO brand endorsers Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli lit up the stage alongside the legendary Gary Valenciano, and an after party set by Juan Miguel Salvador — setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.

Then on Day 2, the energy soared even higher. Employees were treated to an all-star lineup that brought the house down, Vice Ganda and P-pop sensation BINI, both beloved CDO brand endorsers, thrilled the crowd with their show-stopping numbers. Sarah, Matteo, and Gary V returned to deliver another round of high-energy performances that had everyone on their feet. The event was hosted by Dimples Romana—long-time CDO ambassador—and Sam YG, both adding star wattage and warmth to the celebration.

As the celebration ended, CDO Foodsphere’s message was clear: the journey continues. With a strong foundation, enduring partnerships, and a growing community, the company looks ahead to the next 50 years—committed to its purpose of bringing families and generations together through delicious food, across the nation and beyond.

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