The New Zealand Embassy Manila was delighted to welcome 10 innovative Kiwi designers for the Asia New Zealand Foundation’s Young Business Leaders Initiative (YBLI) Fashion Hui! From 24 to 31 November, these creative minds embarked on a journey of discovery, collaboration, and cultural exchange in the Philippines.
On 26 November, they kicked off the day with a courtesy call to the Embassy. The designers were introduced to the rich relationship between New Zealand and the Philippines and explored exciting opportunities for collaboration. A heartfelt waiata performed by Embassy staff set the tone for a warm and meaningful cultural exchange.
The delegates were also welcomed to the New Zealand Official Residence on 27 November, as Ambassador Catherine McIntosh hosted an elegant dinner reception to mark their journey. This gathering celebrated the designers’ talents and provided a platform to connect with Filipino YBLI alumni, fostering deeper ties and shared insights.
The pinnacle of their immersion came on 30 November at Manila International Fashion Week. The Kiwi designers showcased their innovative creations, mingled with Filipino designers, and inspired aspiring talents in a vibrant celebration of creativity and collaboration.
This programme exemplified how fashion can transcend borders, fostering unity and innovation.
Muntinlupa City’s 107th Founding Anniversary was more than just a milestone; it was a tribute to the people who embody the true heart of the city — residents whose honesty, courage, and compassion define what it means to be a Muntinlupeño.
In his speech, Mayor Ruffy Biazon reflected on the remarkable acts of integrity and service shown by ordinary residents throughout the year. “In today’s world, where it’s easy to be indifferent, seeing these acts of honesty fills us with pride and hope,” he said. His words resonated deeply as he recounted inspiring stories of Muntinlupeños whose small but meaningful actions uplifted the entire community.
Tricycle driver Romeo Boso and his wife Aida found a cellphone with ₱1,000 at Alabang Junction. Despite personal financial challenges, they surrendered the phone and cash to the Office of the Mayor, ensuring its return to its rightful owner.
Similarly, high school student Gian Ong found a wallet with IDs, a GCash card, and cash while walking home from school and turned it in at the Mayor’s Office. Meanwhile, 65-year-old Renato Corpuz discovered a phone left unattended at Bayanan Baywalk and, after waiting for the owner, brought it to City Hall with his daughter-in-law’s help.
Mayor Biazon shared, “In Muntinlupa, doing the right thing isn’t extraordinary — it’s second nature.”
The city also honored its most dedicated government employees for 2024: Alicia Tanabe from the City Health Office, recognized as an Outstanding Nutrition Scholar, Sarah Jean Cummings from the Business Permits and Licensing Office, and Michael Arriel Enriquez from the Office of the City Mayor.
During Typhoon Carina, Muntinlupa’s Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) Team rescued 86 people, showcasing the city’s dedication to helping others, even beyond its borders.
The spirit of service has earned Muntinlupa numerous recognitions. For the third consecutive year, the city was awarded the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). The city also placed Top 4 in the Most Competitive Cities index nationwide, securing the Top Spot in Innovation. Its Electronic Business One-Stop Shop earned recognition from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).
The city’s anniversary celebration marked the launch of several projects: • MUNConnect Free Public Wi-Fi: Providing free Wi-Fi across key areas to bridge the digital divide. • PNP Command Center and iRespond App: Enhancing public safety with modern surveillance and response tools. • Tunasan Skate Park: A dedicated space for sports and recreation.
The city also introduced a Health and Management Information System (HMIS) to digitize patient records, ensuring faster and more efficient healthcare services.
The winners of the “Search for the Cleanest and Most Orderly Subdivision” or PaMaNang Nakakaproud were announced, recognizing efforts in maintaining cleanliness and order across various neighborhoods.
As the celebration drew to a close, Mayor Biazon reflected on what truly makes Muntinlupa thrive: its people. “Our progress isn’t measured by how many buildings we’ve built or how many awards we’ve received,” he said. “It’s measured by the hearts of our people — honest, compassionate, and driven by a sense of community.”
For 107 years, Muntinlupa has built a legacy rooted in compassion, service, and shared success. Its people — ordinary citizens with extraordinary hearts — are the city’s greatest achievement and its brightest hope for the future.
As we celebrate this month of hearts, people are looking for unique gifts to give to their loved ones.
Miley Cyrus current hit song “Flowers” inspired some netizens to post in their social media accounts with the catchy lyric “I can buy myself flowers” with the witty inclusion of a bottle of White Flower.
This well-loved Filipino liniment oil suddenly became trending and sparked conversations of self-love. Indeed, one can buy himself/herself a White Flower which for some netizens is more affordable than a bouquet of flowers.
Just recently, an image of a beautiful bouquet made of White Flower bottles surfaced in social media and instantly became a hit!
White Flower’s social post read: “Mapapakanta ka na lang sa kakaasa, White Flower lang katapat nyan! Dun tayo sa forever loyal, White Flower.”
A bottle of White Flower can definitely make you and your loved ones feel loved. With just a small drop, you feel calm and relaxed.
Get your White Flower for your loved one this Valentines!
You may visit White Flower’s official FB page: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialWhiteFlower
A Fiery New Food Adventure for the Bold and the Fearless
The South’s food scene just got a whole lot hotter with the grand opening of LA Chicks, a fast-casual restaurant that’s set to redefine your fried chicken experience. Nestled in the heart of Alabang, LA Chicks is not just another chicken joint – it’s a flavor revolution inspired by the iconic Nashville-style hot chicken.
A Taste of LA, Right in Your Backyard
Born from a culinary adventure in Los Angeles, LA Chicks brings the addictive heat of Nashville-style hot chicken tenders to the Philippines. These aren’t your ordinary spicy chicken tenders – they’re a complex symphony of flavors, featuring their signature dry-rub blend of cayenne peppers and secret spices that will set your taste buds ablaze in the most delightful way.
LA Chicks caters to the bold, the creative, and the effortlessly cool. If you’re the type who’s always on the hunt for the next big flavor trend, who lives for that perfect Instagram story, or who dares to live life with a little extra spice, both on your plate and your daily adventure – this is your new food scene.
While the heat is certainly a starring player, LA Chicks’ menu is a carefully crafted balance of fire and flavor. The crunchy breading gives way to juicy, tender chicken, covered in that signature spice blend that’s more than just a one-note wonder. It’s an experience that keeps you coming back for more, bite after fiery bite.
A Space for Creativity and Connection
LA Chicks isn’t just about the food – it’s a hub for Southie’s creative community. The restaurant’s vibrant, social media-worthy interior provides the perfect backdrop for your next social media update or creative brainstorming session with friends.
Ready to embark on a taste adventure that will leave you breathless (and possibly reaching for a glass of milkshake)? LA Chicks is now open at the lower ground floor, east wing of Festival Mall in Alabang and MOA Complex. Be among the first to experience the heat and share your fiery moments on social media with #LAChicks #HotChicken
Midas Hotel and Casino celebrates the Chinese New Year with opulent festivities. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the rich traditions and joyous celebrations that mark this auspicious occasion.
On January 28, 2025, the exhilarating exhibition by the Choi Li Fut Hong Sheng Koon Lion & Dragon Dance group brings to life the spirit and energy of the New Year, as the ceremonial ritual signifies abundance and the welcoming of good luck and positive vibes for the year ahead.
Midas Hotel & Casino Department Heads
The astonishing Chinese New Year décor curated by creative stylist Egan Ray Hugo enchanted guests from the moment they arrived. The hotel lobby was transformed into a breathtaking display of traditional elements and modern elegance featuring the Guardian Trees of Earthly Abundance, the Celestial Arch of Prosperity, the Imperial Golden Tree of Everlasting Prosperity, and the lobby pillars adorned with lengthy golden curtains, intricately designed with Chinese frames and tassels, embodying power, wealth, and longevity. The bold aesthetic delivers a stirring message of embracing wonderful life experiences, inspired by the Midas golden touch.
To complement the celebration, Midas Café, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, offers a sumptuous Chinese-themed buffet lunch and dinner from January 28 to February 2, 2025. For a very special rate of Php999 per person, guests can indulge in a generous spread and delectable array of traditional dishes expertly crafted to honor the flavors of the Lunar New Year and enrich the festive atmosphere.
Usher in the Chinese New Year with joy, prosperity, and the spirit of togetherness. Be part of the vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage, culinary delights, and magical moments at Midas Hotel and Casino.
For dining inquiries and reservations, call (63 2) 7902.0100 local 8184 / (63) 917.521.7853 or email restaurants@midashotelandcasino.com.
The Philippine healthcare system is no stranger to disruptions—the radical changes in an industry due to innovation.
Joyce Socao, managing director and CEO for the ASEAN region of Time Medical Systems, a manufacturer of cutting-edge magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, as well as the CEO of its affiliate company DigiHealth Specialists, Inc., which specializes in disruptive healthcare presented new disruptions in the Philippine healthcare system during the 75th annual national convention and exhibits of the Philippine Hospital Association at the Manila Hotel.
DigiHealth Specialists Managing Director & CEO Joyce Socao delivering the speech on “Disruptive Technologies in Healthcare” at the 75th annual convention of the Philippine Hospital Association
“Disruptive healthcare technologies refer to the introduction of transformative technologies or approaches that fundamentally alter traditional healthcare models,” she explained. “These innovations often improve accessibility, reduce costs, and enhance patient outcomes, changing established norms within the healthcare industry.”
NEONA is the first superconductive neonatal MRI in the world approved and registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is compact and light and can be easily installed in the same area as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, reducing the risk in transporting premature babies in the hospital.
Rooted in these values, DigiHealth Specialists was established in 2022 with the mission to fill in the gaps in the healthcare system, maximize resources, and find a way to create a fully integrated healthcare system.
By leveraging technology including artificial intelligence and remote patient monitoring, the company, including Time Medical Systems, aims to democratize healthcare, improve the accessibility of healthcare facilities, and mitigate the impact of the shortage in health workers.
(From left to right) PHA president Dr. Jose Santiago, Time Medical Philippines CEO Joyce Socao and Digihealth Specialists chairman former governor Roberto Pagdanganan
Filling the gaps
Socao said that stroke is the second leading cause of death from 2009 to 2019 and one of the leading causes of disability in the Philippines, citing data from the World Stroke Organization.
She added that in 2022, there were an estimated 20 million new cases of cancer and 9.7 million cancer-related deaths according to the World Health Organization. In the same year, there were also 2.3 million neonatal deaths.
These are the three main issues that Time Medical Systems aims to address with its MRIs that focus on the three Bs: brain, breast, and baby.
PICA, the company’s flagship product, is widely recognized as one of the most cost-effective, high-performance whole body MRI systems in the market most suitable for examining claustrophobic patients, children, elderly, and overweight patients with restricted mobility.
EMMA is a 1.5 Tesla whole body MRI machine that, aside from basic scans, also has a special optimal breast scanning feature that is a safe and effective examination for breast cancer diagnosis with a sensitivity of over 80%—compared to the 64% from a mammogram.
NEONA is the first superconductive neonatal MRI in the world approved and registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is compact and light and can be easily installed in the same area as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, reducing the risk in transporting premature babies in the hospital.
“All our devices follow the mission of providing the three As of advanced, affordable, and accessible,” Socao said. “Next year we will need 176 more MRIs in the country according to the Department of Health. We joined this company that manufactures MRIs to bring down the cost in availing special features.”
One such special feature is the teleradiology system bundled with the MRIs. Socao explained that it uses AI to aid radiologists read reports or scans remotely. This will address the shortage of radiologists and imaging facilities specially in the rural areas.
Another innovation presented by Socao is the DigiHealth ATM or automated telehealth machine, which can do 60 clinical parameters similar to a full medical check-up in just five to seven minutes.
It features clinical grade and FDA-registered devices, is portable and compact, has an easy-to-use interface that can be operated even by non-medical personnel, has a built-in electronic health record system, data analytics, and more.
Integrated as well with the DigiHealth ATM is a handheld x-ray that can instantly generate a report for more than 15 lung diseases in just two minutes. It is also aided by AI that is vetted by a radiologist. The handheld x-ray can scan all parts of the body, even pets, is lightweight and does not require a leaded room.
“With this technology, we are hopeful that we can improve the delivery of services so that our population will be able to feel the services at the community level. Through the demonstrations, we have seen how fast and efficient the services are provided,” Socao said.
To summarize, she said, “Our objective is not to replace healthcare providers. Rather, we would like to work on the gaps and the missing pieces to connect all of you, all of us.”
For more information on Time Medical and Digihealth, visit www.digihealth.ph or email support@digihealth.ph.
MANILA, Philippines – As a chapter closed with the farewell of the iconic McDonald’s Quezon Avenue store last December 22, 2024, a new one begins for long-time patrons and their loved ones, with an invitation from McDonald’s to create more feel-good moments at the“ReHomecoming” in its new QA Ligaya store.
Opened in 1984 as the eighth McDonald’s store in the Philippines, McDonald’s Quezon Ave. has been the backdrop of countless special moments—first dates, family gatherings, and more. When its closure was announced, fans flooded both online and in-store spaces to share heartfelt memories and photos, reflecting on the significance the store has had in their lives over the past 40 years.
ReHomecoming at McDo Quezon Avenue (QA) Ligaya. Customers and guests can expectwonderful surprises and activities at the modern and vibrant McDonald’s QA Ligaya store, as ithosts a ReHomecoming activity on January 27.
Joey Perez shared on the official Facebook post, “This McDonald’s holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I first met my wife when she worked as a crew member in the 1980s. It’s where we celebrated my kids’ first birthdays and many other special family moments. Over the years, this place became more than just a restaurant; it was a second home, a space where friendships were formed and memories that will last a lifetime were made.”
Roman Sanchez, meanwhile, shared photos of himself and his siblings enjoying the play place at McDonald’s Quezon Ave. “Our parents used to bring us here when we were still kids. So many memories,” he wrote on Facebook. “Thank you, McDonald’s Quezon Avenue! LOVE KO ‘TO!”
For her part, Anamarie Gutierrez shared several important occasions that happened at McDonald’s QA. “Too many memories at this place,” she wrote online. “But here are the fondest events (at McDonald’s Quezon Ave.)—my daughter Alex celebrated her 18th (debut)birthday; a surprise party for our Mom on her 73rd birthday; our nephew Nate celebrated his7th birthday.”
Madell Louis Samonte, who began as a crew member at McDonald’s Quezon Ave. and later became a local store marketing assistant, recalled being part of a memorable marketing photoshoot. On Facebook, she reflected on the experience, noting that the Golden Arches represent more than just fast food; they symbolize creativity, nostalgia, and significant beginnings. She highlighted how the energy of the place made it unforgettable and how the memories linger, bittersweet yet beautiful, reminding us that profound moments can happen in the most unexpected places.
Winnie Santiago, who now works as a private school teacher, took pride in being a pioneering cashier at McDonald’s Quezon Ave. She said: “I was so proud to be a McDonald’s crew member—I would work mid-shift, and I would have classes in the afternoon. I would ride the jeep to UP Diliman … and attend school in my full uniform. It was sosyal to be part of the crew!”
“It was very heartwarming to see and feel the love from our customers, young and old, our crew, past and present, sharing special moments and memories at McDonald’s Quezon Ave.,” said Adi Hernandez, McDonald’s Philippines Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations and Impact.
Now, McDonald’s invites its customers to create new memories at an exciting store not too far away–the modern and vibrant McDonald’s QA Ligaya, as it hosts a ReHomecoming Celebration on January 27, 2025, filled with thrilling activities and surprises. Lucky customers who visit the QA Ligaya store will receive exciting treats! There is also a photo booth onsite to let the customers capture their feel-good moments at the store.
“The opening of the Quezon Avenue Ligaya store marks another milestone in our continuing journey in the Philippines. It underscores our commitment to bringing good food to more Filipinos while positively impacting the communities we serve in meaningful ways,” Hernandez stated.
Since George T. Yang opened its first store on Morayta Street, Sampaloc, Manila in 1981,McDonald’s has grown by leaps and bounds, capping 2024 with 792 stores nationwide.
Manila, Philippines – FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) and Security Bank Corporation have extended their strategic partnership to bolster financial innovation and inclusion for the next generation of Filipinos. FWD and Security Bank’s successful partnership is rooted from their shared goals of nation-building by leveraging digital technology for exceptional customer experiences and driving sustainable financial solutions.
In less than ten years, the partnership was recognized as the fastest growing bancassurance collaboration in the SEA region. Data-driven strategies rolled-out in 2021 contributed to propelling FWD Philippines from the sixth spot in 2022 to a strong third place ranking according to the Insurance Commission’s (IC).
Binayak Dutta, FWD Group Managing Director, said: “After a decade of trust, shared values, and mutual commitment to empower Filipinos to achieve their financial aspirations, we are continuing our partnership with Security Bank and remain dedicated to delivering accessible consumer-focused products. We will push reshaping the industry by changing the way people feel about insurance.”
Security Bank is one of the Philippines’ leading universal banks serving a diverse group of clients with 334 branches nationwide. With a vision to be the most customer-centric bank in the Philippines, the Bank is actively addressing the Filipino’s evolving needs and investing in what matters to them. Through its partnership with FWD, the Bank seamlessly integrates innovative insurance products and services into its digital tools, making these accessible and convenient for its own customer base.
Sanjiv Vohra, Security Bank’s President and CEO, highlighted the significance of the partnership with FWD Philippines. “Our partnership with FWD Life Insurance has always gone beyond business. It is a bond rooted in our shared vision of empowering Filipinos with the tools and protection to lead worry-free, fulfilling lives. Together, we have not only introduced innovations but also touched lives—helping families build a stronger future for themselves and the generations to come.”
Jumbing De Rosas, FWD Philippines President & CEO also underlined both companies’ shared commitment to nation-building and empowering the next generation to achieve financial independence while helping them build their best future. “This renewed partnership with Security Bank is a significant step in our shared goal of nation-building. Combining our expertise in insurance with Security Bank’s trusted banking services, we hope to empower more Filipinos to achieve financial independence and to celebrate living the best way they know how.”
The Philippines offers a significant opportunity for growth in the insurance market, with the current penetration rate below 2% for a population exceeding 119 million. The country’s expanding income per capita, with a growth rate of 3.9% according to the World Bank, provides a promising economic trajectory. Furthermore, the Filipinos have strong digital connectivity with mobile penetration rate at 58.4% and internet penetration rate at 75%. This indicates a vast potential to reach and engage customers through digital channels, both of which FWD and Security Bank have successfully ventured.
Handshake ceremony between PlayTime and Gawad Kalinga, represented by
PlayTime Senior PR Manager Jay Sabale (2nd from right)
and Gawad Kalinga Executive Director Daniel Bercasio (2nd from left)
In a ceremony held recently, PlayTime, the fastest-growing online gaming platform in the country, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm PlayTime CARES (Community Action, Relief, Empowerment, and Sustainability), is thrilled to announce a partnership with Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, Inc. (GK), a renowned non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating poverty and uplifting communities across the Philippines.
Through this collaboration, PlayTime will be sponsoring a series of PlayTime Playgrounds, a play area for the kids and their families, to be placed inside each GK community. In addition, each playground will also be equipped with Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) setups designed to promote active play, resilience, and community engagement among children and families. The playgrounds will be open to all and are designed to foster inclusivity and excitement for people of all ages.
For this year, the program will start with three locations: the City of Cavite, Quezon City, and Cebu City. Starting 2025, more PlayTime Playgrounds will be constructed nationwide. This initiative aligns with PlayTime’s commitment to making a positive social impact by fostering safe and accessible play spaces that encourage physical fitness and community unity.
As a leading organization in poverty alleviation, Gawad Kalinga works to build empowered communities through various initiatives, from livelihood programs to education and housing. PlayTime is honored to work alongside GK in this project to extend positive, enduring change to communities across the country.
“Partnering with Gawad Kalinga allows us to give back to the Filipino community by building spaces that inspire joy, connection, and physical health,” says Jay Sabale, Senior PR Manager of PlayTime. “We hope that these playgrounds will help preserve the history and culture of physical play, teach children the values of teamwork, endurance, problem-solving skills, and provide them with a safe environment to gather.”
Manila, Philippines – Global Dominion Financing, Inc. (GDFI), a leading financial services provider in the Philippines, continues to make waves in the industry as one of its long-standing employees, Sam Cariño, takes on a pivotal role as the new President and CEO of Asialink.
With 20 years of experience at Global Dominion, Sam’s career journey highlights the company’s reputation for fostering leadership development. Starting as an account officer, Sam worked his way up, showcasing exceptional skills and a dedication to growth.
His new role at Asialink is a testament to the culture of excellence and empowerment cultivated within Global Dominion.
This milestone reflects Global Dominion’s broader commitment to developing leaders who make significant contributions to the financial services sector. Through comprehensive training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement, the company has built a reputation as a nurturing ground for professionals aiming to excel in their fields.
Global Dominion’s president and managing director, Patricia Palacios, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering talent, “At Global Dominion, we believe in empowering our people to grow into leaders who drive progress in the financial services industry. Sam’s journey with us and his appointment as President and CEO of Asialink reflect the values we champion—integrity, innovation, excellence, and grit. As we continue to achieve rapid growth, including reaching 1 billion pesos in loan disbursements, we remain dedicated to investing in our employees. Their talent and commitment are the foundation of our success and our mission to simplify financing for every Filipino.”
The appointment of Sam Cariñounderscores Global Dominion’s role as more than just a financial institution—it is a hub for talent development, where individuals are equipped with the skills and opportunities to excel in leadership positions.
Sam’s new role at Asialink marks the next chapter in a remarkable career, one that began with Global Dominion’s vision of transforming not only the lives of its customers but also the careers of its employees. His success serves as an inspiration for the entire team and the broader financial services industry.
For more updates, follow https://www.facebook.com/globaldominionfinancinginc
