Author: Press Release

  • Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Launches a New Line of Brightening Products to Add to your #RadianceRoutine

    With the ever-evolving demands and needs of our skin, one thing remains the same: consistency is key, especially in routines and habits. Being consistent with your #RadianceRoutine and the products and ingredients you use can go a long way in maintaining your skin health. It can even transform your skin to make it look even brighter.

    Product KV

    To mark its 75th year of catering to the needs of sensitive skin, Dermatologist-recommended skincare brand Cetaphil continues to forge its mark on the skincare industry by introducing innovative brightening products with ingredients approved by Dermatologists through its Bright Healthy Radiance line. Formulated with GentleBright Technology – a combination of Sea Daffodil and Niacinamide that visibly corrects dark spots without irritation boosts brightness, and evens skin tone – the latest line from Cetaphil introduces more brightening products to the fold that will magnify skin’s brightness now powered by ingredients such as Advanced Peptide and Antioxidant C.

    Product Launch

    With these upgraded ingredients combined with the effective GentleBright Technology, the newest products under the Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance line promises to be the gentlest way to brighten skin in just 14 days and lets skinthusiasts continue being #BrightAboutSkin: 

    For Cleansing
    Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Gentle Renewing Cleanser Start your #RadianceRoutine with the new Gentle Renewing Cleanser. This 3-in-1 brightening cleanser offers gentle exfoliation using Jojoba beads infused with Vitamin E to remove pollution and impurities, instantly brightening and improving skin texture.

    For TARGET
    Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Perfecting Serum

    Revitalize skin with the new Perfecting Serum, which offers 7x power for brighter and more radiant skin in just 14 days. With key ingredients Advanced Peptide and Antioxidant C, the Perfecting Serum provides all these benefits in one bottle:

    • Reduces dark spots
    • Evens skin tone
    • Improves fine lines
    • Boosts radiance
    • Fresh, well-rested skin
    • Improves hydration
    • Illuminates complexion

    For Moisturizing
    Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance Instant Radiance Mask

    Provide even more moisture for your skin with the new Instant Radiance Mask, which offers 7x instant results and improves:

    • Skin luminosity
    • Skin tone evenness
    • Radiance tired skin
    • Fine lines
    • Pores
    • Texture

    The new Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance is now available in MercuryDrug and Watsons stores, supermarkets nationwide, and the official Cetaphil Philippines stores in Lazada and Shopee.  

    To learn more about the new Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance and its gentle line of products that brighten skin, follow Cetaphil Philippines on Facebook and Cetaphil Bright Healthy Radiance on Instagram, or visit www.cetaphil.com.ph.

  • What to Look Forward to at ManilART ‘22: Forging Futures

    Art reflects the times, and innovation is par for  the course when it comes to “Forging Futures.” The theme alludes to the creation of new language–visual and technical– through a process that breaks down the form of the old, leaving the substance to take on a new shape, as in metal through a fiery forge. Art is its content, as well as medium, is redefined, expanded and renewed. 

    Now in its 14th year, ManilART is the longest-running visual arts fair in the Philippines, established in 2009 as an annual flagship project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). ManilART pushes onward with this theme, set to take place on October 19-23 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Aura, Taguig.

    There’s always something new to look forward to each year, and this year is groundbreaking for its featured exhibitions focusing on emerging artists, genres and forms, including the phygital and New Media.

    Manilart Main Poster 2022

    Featured artists: from Impas to Orlina 

    ManilART ‘22 continues to introduce emerging talents: new artists joining the fray alongside established pioneers. The year’s line-up of masters to newcomers include the following:

    The Annual Sculpture Review (ASR) will present the long-awaited debut of Anna Orlina, who carries on the family legacy of glassworking, infused with both the Orlina tradition and new techniques learned through study in three continents.

    1 2
    “Setting Sail” from Anna Orlina’s debut at the Annual Sculpture Review.

    Gallery Nine will feature the multimedia power couple Maan Chua and Kublai Millan who are behind Balai Kalipay, a museum gallery with an advocacy for regional arts located in Malagos, Davao City as well as Mindanao Art. While Millan is an established visual artist, singer-songwriter Chua collaborates for the first time with her award-winning wearable art design.

    Galerie du Soleil presents artistic visions from north and south with Danny Rayos del Sol and Jun Impas. Rayos del Sol, acclaimed for his ostrich egg sculptures, showcases intricate patterns from the Northern area of the Philippines carved on carabao skulls. Highlighting the Southern isles, Impas draws attention to day-to-day life in the indigenous community of the Manobo, who hold ancestral knowledge and identity that necessitates preservation.

    3
    “Pagbukod” by Jun Impas.

    Artes Orientes features Iloilo-based mixed media artist Rudy Yu, who is best known for his attention to detail in utilizing acrylic, pen and ink, gouache, and pencil. This year, he exhibits eight of his artworks centering on his visions, impressions, aspirations, and passion for art through his ubiquitous genre of city and landscapes.

    4
    “Beloved Binondo” by Rudy Yu.

    For Museo de Pacis, their forthcoming exhibition focuses on connectivity—building bridges through art. Some of their headliners for this year include Vincent Gonzales and Raynante Concepcion Carandang. Gonzales is the proponent of the art style tareptepism, the dynamic art of merging influences to convey fluidity through visual arts. Carandang is a Batangueño hyperrealistic artist who focuses on social milieus while executing his technical approach.

    At Pugad ni Art, Manny Cabrera focuses on the topic of emotional connection amid the pandemic; his works focus on the seemingly mundane, but powerful experience of missed intimacy during this period of isolation. They also showcase Alfonso Dato’s signature style, drawing inspiration from tree bark to capture the drama of men and women, the remaining fiber of humanity.

    At Historia Arts, we see the works of Eman Santos and Noel Bueza. Santos’s work is a nod to the fair’s theme, where he melds money symbols into works of art that depict women’s empowerment as an instrument to forge futures while attracting prosperity and abundance. Bueza focuses on his vision for the future with his Mother Nature series, going back to basics in a world too fast-paced for its own good; he sees beauty in simpler ways of living, and his art represents the calm and beauty of mother nature.

    Dry Brush artists present works that focus on the relationship between nature and man-made creations; they bring to the fore a dreamlike atmosphere where technology is utilized for the best purposes; by incorporating nature with man-made creations, they envision its positive impacts on society.

    6
    “Oriental Place” by Almer Moneda.
    7
    “Zosia (Flower Series)” by Julmard Vicente.

    Bringing back phygital with Binance

    Binance, the largest cryptocurrency platform, has partnered with ManilART to promote knowledge of New Media, particularly digital art in the form of NFTs. Talks and presentations are slated catered to different audiences on the New Media, but particularly one for artists on October 21 on “The Impact of NFTs on Filipino Artists.”

    They are likewise supporting the debuting platform: NFT Manila which shall present select digital collections of galleries and artists. In 2021, ManilART had a first look at phygital artworks with last year’s “phygital” exhibition of Augmented-Reality facsimiles of artworks beside their physical pieces through Gallery Nine. This included the work of rising hyperrealist painter Ed Coronel, whose work, “Freedom,” recently garnered double first-place awards at the American Art Awards 2022. An expanded platform shall be introduced that carry paintings, sculptures and more media in NFT versions showcased in virtual galleries, with some Augmented Reality works capable of being interacted with.

    9 1
    Mindawon artists Kublai Millan, Jeff Bangot, and Victor Dumaguing will hold a workshop on Lukis Sulam while the largest cryptocurrency platform, Binance, will tackle NFTs at the talks and seminars held by ManilART on October 20 & 21.

    Top artists showcasing NFTs this year include Romulo Galicano with “Geoengineering Against Faith” and Ramon Orlina’s “Orlina Mother and Child 2022 Edition”. Bell Sison’s “Astro” and “Porky Family” collection will be an interactive AR exhibit.

    2 1
    An Augmented Reality NFT based on Bell Sison’s “Astro” sculpture.

    Open-invites to Mindanao art appreciation

    Another educational content feature shall be a regional focus workshop with Mindawon artists Kublai Millan, Jeff Bangot and Victor Dumaguing.

    • On October 20 at 2:00 PM, Jeff Bangot is slated to talk about “Sculpting the Souls of Creative Mindanaon” through the Lunang Mentoring Program; Bangot is an artist and teacher by profession, and the program reflects his life’s calling to educate through artistic ways.
    • At 3:00 PM, Millan shall reveal the culmination of his passion project to a public audience for the first time.
    • Over the course of two days, mixed media artist Victor Dumaguing will teach and demonstrate lukis sulam, a leaf-motif embroidery technique hailing from the Sulu archipelago. On October 20 at 4:00 PM, Dumaguing shall introduce this distinctive style of textile embroidery from the province, composed of arrays of natural elements to produce an eye-catching totality through cloth. On October 21 at 10:30am, appreciation for Lukis Sulam continues through a workshop where applied techniques will be taught.
    8 1
    “The Blind Leading the Blinds” by Orley Ypon.

    Forging futures beyond the fairgrounds

    Satellite exhibitions affirm the national character of the fair by highlighting different regional shows concelebrating Museums and Galleries Month.

    These upcoming shows include Balai Kalipay in Davao, Ap ‘Laya Gallery in Batangas, Tarlac Art at Tarlac, Pahiyas Art Gallery in Quezon, Angono Angkla Gallery in Rizal, BHL X in Bohol, and Pagsibol, the fifth National Watercolor Convention held at the GSIS Museo ng Sining at Pasay City. 

    This year’s participating galleries are 371 Art Space, AC 388, Annual Sculpture Review, Art For Space, Artes Orientes, AT Art Gallery, Dry Brush, Espacio Manila, Galerie Artes, Galerie Du Soleil, Galerie Francesca, Galerie Raphael, Galleria Nicolas, G9 Online, Gallery Nine, Historia Arts, M Gallery MNL, Museo de Pacis, Pugad ni Art, Renaissance Gallery, The Artologist, Village Art Gallery, and Ysobel Art Gallery.

    5 1
    “Close to You” by Art Lozano.

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    Visit www.manilartfair.com for more information. Tickets are available at ticketing partner: Ticketbooth (https://ticketbooth.ph/).

    ManilART 2022 will run from October 19-23, 2022, at the SMX Convention Center, 3rd Level, SM Aura Premier, Taguig City. Call (0977) 807 3369 or visit www.manilartfair.com for details.

  • WIDE International Announces Newest AROMAGICARE Endorser Park Eun-Bin

    WIDE International Strategic Experts Co. (WIDE International) aims to empower its marketing and brand awareness campaigns further this year. And one power move is jumping on the latest trends in pop culture by unveling its newest and first-ever Korean endorser, actress Park Eun-Bin for AROMAGICARE.

    AROMAGICARE Park Eun Bin

    Founder and CEO, Ms. April Martin believes that having the K-Drama star can effectively attract potential customers and product enjoyers of different ages. “Since we’re committed to create a healthy and wealthy community, we think that tapping the ever talented and cheerful actress is a good move to present our brand to people from all walks of life,” she said.

    Meanwhile, since her popularity here in the Philippines continues to rise, making Eun-Bin the first-ever Korean brand ambassador for AROMAGICARE is “The Extraordinary” partnership that they shouldn’t really miss this year. 

    Founder and President, Ms. Pauline Publico shares, “We would really love to have the adorable Park Eun-Bin on board. Making her the face of AROMAGICARE can positively give the brand its well-deserved boost in popularity because we really want to take things to the next level this 2022! We are lucky to have someone well-admired as her right now.”

    Park Eun-Bin just had a stellar year after her amazing performance as the main lead star for the blockbuster hit Netflix drama series Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which of course, became one of the most-watched Korean series on the said streaming service this 2022. She starred as the titular Woo Young-woo, a young and genius lawyer with Autism Spectrum and easily captivated millions of hearts because of her acting talent and charm. 

    Although she’s been an actress for quite some time already and is part of successful shows like Hello, My Twenties!, Do You Like Brahms?, and The King’s Affection, being the “smart and extraordinary” Attorney Woo was indeed her breakout role that made her immensely popular on an international scale. She is set to receive the “Rising Star Award for TV” at the Asian Pacific Cinema and Television awards ceremony to take place on November 4 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. 

    Customers can also bet that her ideals are aligned with the principles of WIDE and AROMAGICARE, which is a 100% Filipino-owned prominent and reliable brand. Prepare as the actress happily endorses AROMAGICARE Therapy Oil in Classic, Strawberry, Barley Moringa Wheatgrass (BMW), and Coffee variants.

    Aromagicare Therapy Oil, also known as ATO, conquers the health and wellness industry with its powerful and effective ingredients which include Turmeric, Moringa, Guava, Lemon, Stevia, Guyabano, Virgin Coconut Oil, Menthol Herb Arvensis, which provides the soothing aroma that makes the product stand out from its competitors. 

    The product is also proud of its easy-to-use application, called the Drop-Rub-Technique. This can be done by dropping a small amount of AROMAGICARE Therapy Oil in the palm of your hands. Then, rub the small drop of the product using your hands and after that, cover your nose and mouth with both hands and inhale the soothing aroma that AROMAGICARE Therapy Oil brings. 

    This handy and affordable therapy oil can be used against different external health problems such as tense muscles, joint pains, back pains, rheumatism, arthritis, muscle pain, cramps, minor sprain, stiff neck, nerve pain, headache, sinusitis, clogged nose, common colds, cough, sore throat, and even insect bites. 

    AROMAGICARE Therapy Oil is also effective against skin problems like itchiness, wounds, skin burns, and varicose veins. The soothing capabilities of this product also work to ease vertigo, fatigue, stress, dysmenorrhea, bad breath, gum problems, and toothache. It is a certified Premium Brand with Premium Quality, and is FDA Approved so you’re sure that it’s safe and effective. 

    The actress really can’t wait to be part of the WIDE family and be “The Extraordinary” this early!

    To know more information, visit WIDE International’s official website: www.officialwideinternational.com/aromagicare and follow the official Facebook (wideinternational) and Instagram (@aromagicare_official).

  • Nicole Laurel Set to Launch ‘BAWAL’ on October 28

    So, what’s it all worth?— does the poisoned vine indeed breed finer wine? — is this thing we “love” even worth fighting for? Perhaps if it was so “bawal” then maybe it wasn’t borne out of love at all… 

    1 Bawal Single Art

    Bakit nga ba masarap kapag bawal?

    It had been a little while since noted multi-talented Nicole Laurel got back in the recording cycle. She didn’t stop writing new songs. In fact, there are dozens in progress . For this upcoming single ‘BAWAL,’ she collaborated with a co-musician she had met nearly 9 years ago but never really had the opportunity to write with— guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Gabe Dandan. During an impromptu jam, he put down the guitar and began playing keys. Nicole began humminhinstantaneous melody and lyrics— the initial songwriting for “Bawal” was done in about 30 minutes.

    4 Nicole Asensio

    “This is one of the simplest lyrical expressions I have published, nothing poetic here, just a sentiment revolving around the quintessential question: “Bakit masarap kapag bawal?” It was one of those instances na halos sabay lumabas yung lyrics and melody, and halos tapos na yung song form in the first session. I was led into the song by the chord choices. The song is a simple, slow, soulful blend of sultriness and the melancholy of desiring something you can’t have,” Nicole noted. 

    The ‘Bawal’ team of the best musicians in today’s industry pooled their creative energies at Wildgrass studios for tracking.

    Otep Concepcion (Drums), Rommel Dela Cruz (Bass), Nikko Rivera (Keys), Ted Amper (Cello), Lester Sorilla (Trumpet), Gabe Dandan (Producer, Guitar, Percussions, Backup Vocals), Mike Luis (Vocal arranger, Backup Vocals)

    The world class post production team are mixing engineer Angee Rozul then mixed and mastered in Dolby Atmos by: Waxified Sound Production.

    Gabe Dandan on writing with Nicole Laurel Asensio:

    “I like working with Nicole because I am inclined towards improvisation-style writing, it brings out the best in my playing and musical choices, Nicole encourages that environment. Her brain is like a factory for making lyrics, the workflow and is seamless and that doesn’t always happen with everyone.”

    On Producing the track with the “Nyors” 

    “That was pretty scary, I went early, not just to get good parking, but also to calm my nerves before the guys arrived. When they all arrived it went pretty smoothly, I knew what I wanted to do, but these guys are all really really good, so at first I didn’t feel like I was in the position to tell them what to do, in fact I didn’t have to say much just a little guiding but they’re the best so they just did their thing. It was a fun process. Post production was easy and efficient, Nicole is very honest, she makes sure to tell me what she wants while we’re still in the process and not when everything is already done and I appreciate that.”

    “Bawal” will definitely take all of us along with the memories of countless chases, losses, painful lessons, maybes, possibilities and loves that could have been.

    More songs are birthing from Nicole Laurel Asensio, but for now she just needed to publish at least one to ignite the process again. “Bawal” is the first of many to hit the studio. More can definitely be expected in 2023. 

    Nicole finally notes: “PUWEDE”

    3 Nicole Asensio

    “The beautiful thing about songwriting is – technically, walang bawal… you can write about anything, anyone and everything… you can use any note, rhythm, topic, lyric that reflects your soul and sentiment… Marami ngang bawal, ngunit, sa paglikha… lahat pwede. This is why creativity proves to be my greatest purpose and escape all in one, theres no telling where the creative chase will lead, but one thing is for sure, the creative chase is never futile, and always “masarap.”

    “One last listen… before I turn off the speakers. The room is quiet now…. 
    Save for the crackling sound of chicharon. So, bakit nga ba masarap kapag bawal?”

    BAWAL is Produced by: Gabe Dandan / Nicole Laurel Asensio
    Executive Produced by: Nicole Laurel Asensio
    Mix and Mastered in Dolby Atmos by Waxified Sound Production
    Distributed by: Warner Music Philippines
    Catch it on October 28 on all digital platforms!

  • K-Drama Series May I Help You to launch on Prime Video in the Philippines on October 19

    Prime Video Philippines announced today that it will launch the brand new heart-warming and healing K-drama May I Help You on October 19. Starring Lee Hye-ri (Reply 1988, My Roommate Is A Gumiho and Moonshine) and Lee Jun-young (D.P. and Let Me Be Your Knight).  The new TV series follows the encounter of two butlers, one for the dead, Baek Dong-joo, and the other for the living, Kim Jib-sa, and takes the audience through how they deal with the life and death situation and at the same time are gradually drawn to each other.  

    May I Help You Large

    May I Help You will be available exclusively on Prime Video in the Philippines with weekly episodes every Wednesday and Thursday. 

    Production information

    ●      Director           : Sim So-yeon (Here’s My Plan, Welcome 2 Life)

    ●      Writer              : Lee Sun-hye (Reply 1997)

    ●      Genre              : Drama, Romantic

    ●      Episodes        : 16 (every Wednesday and Thursday at 9:50pm KST/ 11:00 pm Philippine standard time)

    ●      Synopsis    : A funeral director who has a special ability that allows her to see and talk to the dead meets an employee at an errand running service “Ildangbaek,” which provides service for pretty much anything clients ask for as low as 100 Korean won.  The two butlers, one for the dead and the other for the living, join hands and team up to carry out the wishes of the terrifying, warm-hearted, eccentric, heart-numbing dead people. They figure out that death and life are two sides of a coin, and that the requests of the dead are messages to the living. 

  • ChooxTV,  Largest gaming creator in the Philippines, joins Minana Esports

    Edgar “ChooxTV” Dumali,  the nation’s largest gaming creator with nearly 30 million social followers, has joined Minana Esports, Ampverse Esports arm,  as  investor and brand ambassador. 

    This major deal comes as part of Ampverse’s growth strategy, following its commitment to invest more than P100 million to drive and accelerate the local gaming industry.

    MinanaTalent Ampverse 1

    Alongside him, other notable gaming talents such as Eric Eruption, Hybebits, Lhea Bernadino, King Jasro, and Elanorm will also become brand ambassadors for Minana – totaling up to 55 million followers for all combined creators. 

    Streamer and content creator ChooxTV is known for his ingenious off-meta picks and wacky antics on his livestream and was named MVP of the Year in the 2021 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Awards Gala.

    “Excited akong mag-invest sa Minana dahil sa pagbibigay daan nito na magkaroon ng isang panibagong  ‘youth lifestyle brand’ na magpapakita ng galing ng mga Pinoy,” Dumali said.

    (I’m excited to invest in Minana as I really share their vision of creating a next generation youth lifestyle brand that celebrates the very best of Filipino talent.)

    The newly formed Minana Esports are the current champions of the Philippine National Esports League in Mobile Legends. Prior to that, the team has won 11 straight championships and aims to be the most successful esports team.

    In line with becoming the fastest-growing esports and Web3 company in Asia, Ampverse aims to build Minana into a leading Filipino youth lifestyle brand that spans entertainment, fashion, music, and lifestyle.

    “We are incredibly proud to kick off Minana with a successful run and an official championship title under our belt. We will continue to build our success in competition, but at the same time create inspiration for the Filipino youth,” Minana Team Lead and Ampverse’s Regional Expansion Manager Julius “Banoobs” Mariano said.

    A streamer with over 100,000 followers and named the “godfather of esports and gaming in the Philippines,” Mr. Mariano previously worked as country manager for Twitch, an Amazon-owned video live streaming service platform.

    “Our vision is bigger than just competitive gaming, it’s about igniting the passion in every generation and building Minana as the leading youth culture hub for all gamers, creators, and anybody to fulfill their dreams,” Mariano added.

    According to market analytics firm Straits Research, Asia-Pacific will command the largest esports market share, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 21.92% by 2030.

  • Award Winning Artist with Autism Unboxes “Shoebox Sketches” NFT Collection

    A collection of hand-drawn sketches numbering in the thousands, Vico started drawing these artworks over two decades ago as a young boy. Kept in his mother’s shoeboxes, these sketches remained largely unknown until recently when they found their home in the most fitting medium: as NFTs. 

    L R Sol Bautista Cathy Cham Judy Santiago Aladin of Smart Parenting Vico and Michelle Aventajado

    Held at the Swiss-French bistro, L’entrecote, Vico Cham’s Shoebox Sketches were finally brought to life as “phygital” artworks (physical artworks with a digital NFT counterpart) during the event. 

    The Discovery of The Shoebox Sketches

    Even before Vico’s flourishing art career began, the young artist had always loved to sketch on scratch paper. 

    As it turns out, this collection of sketches that Vico has been quietly working on for the past few decades might be one of the most significant pieces of his career.

    Cleopatra paintings and Shoebox Sketches

    “Shoebox Sketches” now numbers in the thousands. According to his mother, Cathy Cham, he has been sketching an average of 20 sketches every day and continues to do so, amounting to an estimated 143,000 sketches during his lifetime. Of these 143,000, an estimated 8,000 have been located. Of these 8,000, over 500 have already been digitized and minted as phygital pieces as the first batch of the Shoebox Sketches. The goal of the Chams is to share as many of these sketches with the world.

    These sketches offer a glimpse into how Vico’s evolved throughout the years but also illustrate how he’s been able to stay true to his style. 

    NFTs: The Perfect Home for Shoebox Sketches  

    The choice of digitally adapting these sketches into NFTs (non-fungible tokens) metaverse was a perfect fit. 

    A few of the hundred thousands sketches has created throughout the decades

    For one, Vico’s sketches number in the thousands, retaining one cohesive style but with each image containing its own unique traits. No two are alike. In the NFT space, collections like these are a common sight. For example, apes with different facial features, and accessories make up a famous collection called BAYC.

    The different traits of these drawings simulate rarity in the metaverse. The rarer an attribute, the more valuable a piece is perceived.

    But there lies a few fundamental differences with Vico’s sketches. While most large NFT collections are generated by algorithms, the shoebox sketches are all hand-drawn. 

    Secondly, Vico’s works were never primarily intended for web3. Entire NFT projects have been mounted and funded by millions of dollars of funding, backed by hype and promotional machinery that would make the likes of Google blush. Rather, the sketches were meant as an outlet for Vico: as a way for him to pass the time in between his painting sessions and work (Vico is also an employee of Unilab Foundation). With nothing more than his pens, bond papers, and a whole lot of time, Vico was able to unwittingly create an art collection that would eventually become the NFT pieces they are today. 

    A Tale of Two Collections: Cleopatra Series 

    Three of the nine Cleopatra paintings that are being minted into NFTs

    The Shoebox Sketches will be sold as phygital pieces — NFTs with a physical counterpart. Each purchase of a Shoebox Sketch NFT will also come with the physical sketch mounted on a 8 x 3 inch acrylic sandwich frame.

    In addition to the sketches, another collection called the “Cleopatra Collection” will be sold as NFTs backed by physical paintings. 

    Exclusive Benefits for Vico Cham NFT Holders

    As if getting limited edition NFTs with physical artwork wasn’t enough, All Vico Cham NFT holders will ALSO receive exclusive benefits such as airdrops/giveaways, exclusive content, and other fun stuff. So if you’re an avid collector of Vico Cham’s works, this is your chance to be able to win some amazing prizes from the artist!

    Both collections will be listed on Rarible.com for the public on October 11.

    View and buy the collections here:

    https://rarible.com/shoeboxsketchesbyvicocham

    https://rarible.com/cleopatras

  • Likhang HABI Market Fair returns, weaves heritage and elegance in a 3-day affair

    The Philippine Textile Council (HABI) has announced the return of the annual Likhang HABI Market Fair at the Glorietta Activity Center from October 14 to 16, 2022.

    Likhang HABI Market Fair

    Now in its 12th year, the Likhang HABI Market Fair will have more than 60 vendors offering handmade pieces, like woven fabrics, ready-to-wear clothes, home accessories, and even locally made furniture and pottery.

    Event stylist Kitty Bunag has been tasked to transform the Glorietta Activity Center into a heritage hub showcasing the best creations from some of the most celebrated artisans around the Philippines. “The overall look and feel for the Habi Market Fair will be inspired by outdoor souks and markets here and in other parts of the world.  Vendor booths will be made of wood and canvas where each retailer can best showcase their products. Textiles hanging from dried ornamental trees serve as the main focal of the venue. We’re creating a space that will be familiar for both local and foreign patrons,“ says Bunag.

    Likhang HABI Market Fair PIDAYRIT CAMISA AMANA TINAMPUSO

    Showcased during the 3-day fair are homegrown brands Abek Home & Culture,  Abre Linea, Accelerate Sulu, Adante Leyesa, Aishe Fashion, Angie’s Yakan Handloom Weaving, Anihan sa Ibaan, Aruga Handwovens, Balud Craft, Bicol Sweetgrass Handicrafts, Camisa Amana, Cariñosa, Casa Garcia, Coco & Tress, Crafted Pilipinas, Creative Definitions, Ditta Sandico, En Barong Filipino, Gifts and Graces, Habi, Helena Alegre Sculptural Jewelry, Idyllic Summers, Ifugao Nation, Iraya Mangyan Art, Jor-El Espina, Kalinga Weaving, Kaya Mana PH, Knitting Expedition, La Bonne Vie, La Herminia, Lakat Sustainables,  Local Home + Art + Fashion, Mabaysay,  MCV Designs, Milvidas, Monica Madrigal, Narda’s Nina Abel, Pidayit, Piesa,  Pina Seda Primera, PNay, Provenciana, Raquel’s Piña Cloth Products, Ruby Roa with Lila Lifestyle, Rurungan Collective, Siegrid Bangyay Pottery, Silahis Arts and Artifacts, Style Isle, Tadeco Home, The Manila Collectible Co, Tinampuso, Tuwas Yakan Weavers, WeaveManila Inc., Woven, WVN Living, and WYC Wear Your Culture.

    As a member of the ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium, part of HABI: The Philippine Textile Council’s mission is to promote the art of hand-weaving and provide opportunities for talented Filipino artisans to showcase their products to an eager market. 

    Likhang HABI Market Fair 2022 1

    Being the first of its kind in the country, the fair will also feature two uniquely Filipino competitions: the annual Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving Competition and, starting this year, the Eloisa Hizon Gomez Abaca Competition. Contestants are going to be judged by a panel of experts on Philippine textiles, processes, and materials. 

    “This is our fifth year of holding the piña competition and since we’ve had it, we’ve noticed that artisans working on piña have been leveling up,” says HABI president Adelaida Lim.

    Council member Mike Claparols shared that HABI’s greatest contributions include encouraging weaving communities to use cotton and educating the public about the painstaking art form that is hand weaving. 

    He explains, “A lot of consumers think that hand-woven fabrics are too expensive. Many try to bargain with weavers by asking for big discounts. What they don’t know is that weaving is a learned skill that requires time and dedication to master.” 

    “We’re the first in this line of promoting indigenous fabrics as fashion,” says Maribel Ongpin, Founder of HABI. “Second, while most of the other bazaars have reached a sophisticated level, we continue to go grassroots.” 

    Ultimately, the three-day fair is HABI’s biggest and most talked about fundraising activity. Aside from direct donations from individuals and companies, the fair is one of the main sources of funding for the council’s projects, which includes preservation of the art of weaving, educating consumers, and pushing locally made products and artists to the national — and global — market.

    “As a country, we carry important fibers like piña and abaca that are uniquely ours. [These] are world-renowned. Since museums in the world feature [these pieces, it’s] considered a legacy of Filipino craftsmanship, identity, and the nation,” Ongpin concludes. 

    Likhang HABI Market Fair 2022 is made possible by the generous contribution of council sponsors: Glorietta Mall, Ayala Center, Union Bank of the Philippines, The Philippine Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), AY Foundation, Emerging Power Inc., Marubeni Philippines Corporation, Holiday Inn & Suites Makati, Far Eastern University (FEU), and Pancake House with radio partners  DZRH Manila, RPN DYKB Bacolod City, and DYRF Cebu City. 

    For more information about HABI: The Philippine Textile Council, please call +63 921 849-6974 or email support@habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com.

  • Hard Rock International Celebrates 23rd Annual PINKTOBER Campaign by Partnering with World-Renowned Chef Dominique Crenn

    Hard Rock International continues to support breast cancer awareness and research with its 23rd annual PINKTOBER campaign taking place throughout the month of October. Starting October 1, Hard Rock locations around the world will participate in fundraising efforts supporting the Hard Rock Heals Foundation®, the charitable arm of Hard Rock®, with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society and local charities. Hard Rock has donated millions of dollars toward breast cancer research over the last 22 years of the PINKTOBER campaign. Last year, Hard Rock raised over $700,000, representing the largest amount the company has fundraised since the inception of the program back in 2000.

    HRC PINKTOBER MENU

    Kicking off this year’s PINKTOBER activations is a special partnership and highly-anticipated dinner series with world-renowned chef and breast cancer survivor Dominique Crenn. Hard Rock will also offer PINKTOBER limited-edition menu items. 

    “It’s with great honor and pride that Hard Rock International supports those affected by breast cancer across the globe with our 23rd annual PINKTOBER. All is One is a Hard Rock motto that we are thrilled to see come to life each year through our work with American Cancer Society, community members, team members and local charities, benefitting such an important cause,” said Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of Hard Rock International. “This year, we’re proud to partner with Chef Dominique Crenn, a breast cancer survivor, who shares our passion in raising awareness and giving back to local charities and communities.”  

    Hard Rock Café Manila is supporting this global initiative by partnering with ICanServe Foundation, Inc., a breast cancer advocacy group. A portion of the sales from the Pinktober menu items will be donated to the said foundation.  

    Partnership with Chef Dominique Crenn

    This year, Hard Rock is teaming up with world-renowned French Chef and breast cancer survivor, Dominique Crenn, who is currently the only female chef in the United States to attain three Michelin Stars for her restaurant Atelier Crenn, in San Francisco, California. In partnership with Crenn, Hard Rock created a limited-time menu item of Baja Style Shrimp Tacos exclusively available at Hard Rock Cafes around the world, with a portion of proceeds donated to a local charity chosen by the Cafes. Crenn  also hosted a curated dinner series kicking off at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood with events at Abiaka Wood Fire Grill on September 27 and Hard Rock Cafe on September 28, followed by a special dinner at Hard Rock Hotel New York on October 7. Invited guests include fellow breast cancer survivors, caretakers and American Cancer Society supporters.

    For more information on Hard Rock International and how you can support PINKTOBER visit www.hardrock.com/pinktober. 

  • CCP Exhibits 21AM Collection at Arthaland

    THE Cultural Center of the Philippines through its Visual Arts and Museum Division will mount select artworks from the CCP 21AM collection for exhibition at the Arthaland Century Pacific Tower from October 13 to November 13, 2022.

    Billed as Details & Abstractions: Selections from the Cultural Center of the Philippines 21AM Collection, the exhibition is one of the CCP’s visual arts activities aimed at making the collection available for thematic exhibitions to be shown at partner venues.

    arthaland

    The exhibition will have its opening reception live streamed at the Facebook pages of CCP, CCP VAMD, and Arthaland on October 13 at 6pm.

    Given the closure of the CCP’s Main Building for a 2-year renovation work beginning 2023, off-site exhibitions are being lined up in order to continue showcasing the CCP 21AM collection to the public.

    As a kick off to the exhibition roadshow, and in celebration of October as Museum and Galleries Month, the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division has partnered with Arthaland for an exhibition at the ground floor lobby of Arthaland Century Pacific Tower (ACPT) at 5th Avenue corner 30th St., Bonifacio Global City.

    21M

    Arthaland was chosen as the venue to host the said off-site exhibition as it is the first building in the world to be certified by the International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, as zero carbon under its EDGE program, the acronym for Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency.  In addition to its world-class design and its superior quality construction, Arthaland’s sustainable features serve to enhance its occupants’ mental and physical health similar to how art brings about immeasurable benefits to an individual’s as well as the entire communities’ well-being.