Author: Press Release

Empowering Change: Paralympian Adz Dumapong’s Inspiring Journey in New GCash Film

In a world where the odds seem stacked against those with disabilities, Adeline “Adz” Dumapong rises as a beacon of hope and strength. GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, recently unveiled the moving story of this Paralympic champion in their latest GCash Stories film. The short film not only chronicles Adz’s remarkable journey but also shines a much-needed light on the challenges faced by aspiring para-athletes, from financial constraints to a lack of support. Her story is a powerful reminder of what it takes to triumph in the face of adversity.

Adeline “Adz” Dumapong, 19-time para powerlifting medalist, at the GCash Stories 2024 media launch.

“Adz is a true inspiration,” shares Neil Trinidad, GCash’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Her story is a powerful reminder of the potential in every individual, regardless of their abilities. We hope this film sparks a conversation about the need for inclusion and progress, especially for the community of persons with disabilities.”

A Hero’s Journey Begins

The film opens in the year 2000, where we see Adz receiving life-changing news: she’s qualified to compete internationally. Yet, the joy of this achievement is quickly met with the daunting task of raising funds to make it happen. With relentless determination, Adz tirelessly makes cold calls, seeking support. Thanks to the generosity of various agencies and individuals, she not only competes on the world stage but also brings home the Philippines’ first-ever Paralympic bronze medal. It’s a victory that not only elevates her but also serves as a triumph for all Filipino athletes with disabilities.

Fast forward to today, Adz remains deeply committed to giving back. Despite the challenges in securing sponsorships for grassroots para-athletes, she never falters. Instead, she turns to GCash, leveraging its platform to raise much-needed financial support for non-national team para-athletes. Through this, she hopes to inspire others to dream big and aim high, just as she did.

Adeline “Adz” Dumapong and her friends and family

Championing Para-Athletes

Born in the serene town of Kiangan, Ifugao, Adz’s life took a drastic turn when she contracted polio at the tender age of three, leaving her unable to walk. While staying at Bahay Mapagmahal, a home for children with disabilities, she discovered para-powerlifting with the help of the Rehab Department of the Philippine Orthopedic Center. This discovery ignited a passion that led her to make history as the Philippines’ first Paralympic medalist, winning bronze in Sydney. Over the years, Adz has amassed 19 international medals, proving that disability is no barrier to greatness.

But Adz’s legacy goes far beyond the medals she’s earned. She is a fierce advocate for para-athletes, joining various initiatives that call for equal opportunities, inclusion, and fair recognition for persons with disabilities (PWD). Her story is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience, and she continues to inspire countless individuals, both within and outside the PWD community.

Left to Right: Neil Trinidad, Chief Marketing Officer of GCash, WOWLEAP, Inc. Representatives, Maricel Candole, Irene Angiwan, Carmen Zubiaga, Adeline “Adz” Dumapong and Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses and Wealth Management of GCash

Empowering the PWD Community

From Paralympic champion to passionate advocate, Adz Dumapong’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Now retired from competitive sports, she remains dedicated to empowering the PWD community. Her involvement with WOWLEAP, Inc., a women-led organization, has deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. As the Project Manager at WOWLEAP, Adz leads initiatives that promote inclusivity, economic independence, and social awareness for partner communities.

“As an athlete with a disability, I thought I fully understood the challenges of our sector,” shares Adz. “But my work with WOWLEAP opened my eyes even more to the broader needs of the community. It reminded me that the world is bigger than sports, and there’s so much more we need to do in terms of education and understanding the struggles of persons with disabilities. Now, I’m more motivated to help my community and hope that through my work, I can reach more women with disabilities across the country.”

Beyond her role at WOWLEAP, Inc., Adz actively participates in various community initiatives. She is regularly invited to sports clinics, workshops, schools, and other gatherings as a resource person to talk about disability sensitivity, resilience, and inclusion. Her unwavering commitment to empowering the PWD community makes her a true inspiration to many.

GCash’s Commitment to Financial Inclusion and Support

Inspired by Adz’s story, GCash is stepping up its commitment to financial inclusion and progress for all, particularly the PWD community. The finance super app has partnered with organizations that support persons with disabilities to drive meaningful change. To kickstart its initiatives, GCash has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) to champion an inclusive workplace where persons with disabilities can thrive. This partnership further solidifies GCash’s dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I), with a pledge to integrate comprehensive policies, innovative programs, and accessible spaces for persons with disabilities by 2025.

In addition, GCash has partnered with WOWLEAP, Inc. to pledge support for their capacity-building programs. In collaboration with Visa, the company has also donated wheelchairs to the Philippine Orthopedic Center, aiming to help PWDs retain their independence and enhance their quality of life.

Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses and Wealth Management of GCash

“We are proud to partner with organizations like the NCDA and WOWLEAP, Inc. to support the PWD community,” says Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses and Wealth Management at GCash. “Adz’s story embodies our mission of financial inclusion and is just the beginning. We are committed to working closely with the PWD sector to provide financial education and support, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.”

Looking ahead, GCash will continue to collaborate with like-minded organizations to develop comprehensive programs tailored to the needs of the PWD community. Together, we can build an inclusive society where everyone can fully thrive.

Be a Champion for the PWD Community

Just like Adz, you too can become a champion for the PWD community. With GCash, your transactions can serve as support for other persons with disabilities and para-athletes. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact in uplifting the lives of countless individuals.

To learn more about Adz Dumapong’s inspiring journey, watch the full “Adz” short film on YouTube. And if you haven’t already, download the GCash app today and be part of the change.

About GCash

GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. GCash’s mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only duacorn in the Philippines.

GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

August 16, 2024
“Alien: Romulus” Brings Spine-chilling Suspense with the Return of the Xenomorphs – in Cinemas Now

20th Century Studios’ “Alien: Romulus” has finally landed in theaters, showcasing spine-chilling suspense, a gripping storyline, and the petrifying return of the most terrifying life-form in space – the Xenomorphs.

Set on a desolate, alien-infested planet, the latest installment of the Alien franchise delivers a harrowing tale of survival. Its story follows a group of humans stranded in the cold, inhospitable, and unforgiving depths of space where danger is ever-present because of the deadly Xenomorphs that lurk in the shadows.

Speaking about one of the most incredible monsters ever seen on screen, Director Fede Alvarez highlights that “there’s an aspect of these creatures that’s just so terrifying, that are made of nightmares, that’s just so unique.”

Spike Fearn, who plays the role of Bjorn, shares his thoughts on how “Alien: Romulus” would resonate with today’s audiences: “If you’re like a true fan of, especially the first two (“Alien” and “Aliens”), I think you’re just gonna love the movie. I think that Fede (Alvarez) captured that very well.” Echoing this was Archie Renaux, who plays Tyler, “definitely giving some nostalgia for some people, as well, these cool little nods,” he says. Meanwhile, Isabela Merced, who plays Kay, adds, “and if you don’t know the movie, it’s all the better because then you get to experience it for the first time.” Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, and Aileen Wu also star in the film.

The Philippine premiere of “Alien: Romulus” in SM Mall of Asia IMAX Cinema and the special advance screening in Ayala Malls Greenbelt 3’s 4DX Cinema were electrifying events, filled with an eerie atmosphere and fans packing the theaters, eager to experience the latest chapter in the beloved franchise. Initial reviews have started to pour in, and critics have been applauding Alvarez’ direction, noting how his signature style of horror and tension breathed life into the movie. The reactions from those who attended the premiere have been nothing short of enthusiastic, saying that the sci-fi thriller was a perfect blend of classic Alien horror and modern filmmaking.

As the buzz continues to grow, there’s no better time to experience “Alien: Romulus” on the big screen. This is a movie that demands to be seen in a theater, where the full impact of its cutting-edge visual effects and immersive sound design can be truly appreciated.

Don’t miss out on the ultimate survival film that has everyone talking – get your tickets and prepare for a journey into the unknown. “Alien: Romulus” is now showing in theaters nationwide.

August 15, 2024
Of Mud And Suds: How ‘Cycles Of Care’ Rebuilt Carina-hit Communities With Clean Clothes

When Super Typhoon Carina hit the Philippines, many areas in the Greater Manila Area were submerged in heavy floodwater. Grace Remodano was one of the many Filipinos who had to be rescued in Tondo, Manila during the onslaught of the typhoon. She recounted how they couldn’t leave their house because the flooding was so severe, describing it as being ‘higher than a person’s height,’ with water levels that reached well above their heads. “Lahat ng gamit namin nabasa (all of our things got wet in the flood). Ang hirap po talaga (it was so hard for us),” Grace said.

Super Typhoon Carina families avail of Ariel Philippines’ free laundry services in Save5 Tambunting

This was a common sight in many areas in the Greater Metro Manila. Super Typhoon Carina brought on torrential rains and strong winds to different parts of the Philippines, forcing thousands of Filipinos to evacuate their homes because of the rising floods. Many experienced power outages, water disruptions, and mild to severe damages to their homes due to the calamity. About 4.8 million individuals were affected with 108,000 people still in evacuation centers as of this week. In aid of restoring normalcy to the lives of affected families, Ariel, Procter and Gamble’s trusted laundry brand, launched the “Cycles of Care” community program to provide relief by offering free laundry services to those affected by Super Typhoon Carina. In partnership with Save5 Laundromat and Beko Washing Machine Brand, the multi-day event served over 13,000 families who needed clean clothes, beddings and blankets for their homes.

“Through Ariel’s “Cycles of Care” free laundry services, we are helping affected families restore normalcy in their lives and homes by providing access to clean clothes and beddings that were stained and muddy from the floods. This is especially needed by those without access to clean water and electricity after the typhoon. Ariel Laundry Detergent is great at stain removal and is a trusted laundry detergent for washing machines,” said Ralph Morales, Ariel Philippines Brand Director.

Ariel Philippines collaborated with Save5 Laundromat to activate 100 Save5 branches in this relief program. The partnership recorded over 27,000 washing machine cycles and over 216,000 kgs of stained, soiled and muddied clothes washed and cleaned using Ariel Laundry Detergent across the participating branches.

“Ariel’s “Cycles of Care” is a meaningful way to help communities that were affected by Super Typhoon Carina. P&G and Ariel Philippines’ generosity and dedication to helping the community during these challenging times are truly inspiring,” said Ryan Lim, Save5 Laundromat President.

Families from Barangay Tumana, Marikina City gather for Ariel Cycles of Care’s free laundry services in partnership with Beko.

Beko provided washing machines that were used for the free laundry services in Barangay Tumana, Marikina City. This community is one of the heavily flooded areas in the city due to the overflowing of the Marikina River. “We’re happy that we were able to help ease the worries of Marikeños through Ariel’s “Cycles of Care” where we use Ariel Liquid Detergent, our trusted laundry brand for our washing machines,” said Ghie Papa, Beko Philippines Brand Communications Manager.

Families express gratitude

One of the beneficiaries of happily carrying out a basket of clean clothes and sheets that were washed with Ariel Laundry Detergent.

Several residents who availed Ariel’s free laundry services left the participating laundromats with grateful smiles on their faces while carrying their baskets of clean clothes. “Nakatipid po kami sa paglalaba sa tulong ng Ariel (we were able to save money and time with the help of Ariel). Ang laki po ng pasasalamat namin (we can’t thank them enough),” Grace said. Another affected resident Eden San Diego, who also lives in Tondo, Manila added that Ariel’s “Cycles of Care” was a huge help for her family as they can now focus on cleaning their houses.

By providing access to clean clothes and blankets in the aftermath of calamities like Super Typhoon Carina, restoring a sense of normalcy and providing comforts of home to affected families allows them to focus on rebuilding their lives.

P&G also stepped up as a Force for Good in the community by donating its trusted health and hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, and diapers to affected cities, barangays, and evacuation centers. These donations were facilitated through collaborations with government and non-governmental organizations such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Manila Water Foundation, World Vision Philippines, and the GMA Kapuso Foundation.

About Procter & Gamble

P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands. Fostering equality and inclusion, supporting our communities and protecting the planet are embedded in how we do business. We believe we have a responsibility to make the world better — through the products we create and the positive impact our brands and Company can have. P&G’s portfolio includes Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide.

Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands.

August 15, 2024
PLDT Home rolls out new Fiber Unli All plans with unli mobile calls and 2x faster speeds

PLDT Home is revolutionizing family connectivity with its new Fiber Unli All Plan1399. This plan has unlimited mobile calls and double internet speeds, ensuring everyone stays connected effortlessly.

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PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plans now have enhanced Unli Fam Call, a feature that lets the whole family enjoy free calls and texts from mobile to mobile, unlimited calls from mobile to landline, landline to landline, and landline to mobile. To enjoy this feature, customers cannominate five (5) Smart or TNT numbers as part of the Unli Fam Call.

The Fiber Unli All 1399 deliver sspeeds of up to 100 Mbps, whichis twice as fast as the previous plan at 50 Mbps.

The Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 delivers great value for money – combiningin one bundle a family calling circle and high-speed internet with unlimited Cignal TV– which allows customers to enhance their lifestyle while spending less for their digital services.

Keeping Family Connected

What’s great about the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans–theycome in two value-packed optionsto suit the size and needs of thehousehold. The average Filipino household is estimated to have four members, but no two homes have the same internet requirements. Families with young children and teenagers may require more bandwidth for their online leisure activities, while households with work-from-home set up and multiple smart devices may demand higher internet bandwidth.

There are two (2) Fiber Unli All options – the enhanced PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 now at 100 Mbps and Plan 1799 at 200 Mbps. Now customers have more options best suited to their whole family’s internet usage.

PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plans ensure that Filipino households get the most value for their money by having the right services that they need for the whole family.

The bundle offers endless entertainment from CignalTV’s diverse array of viewing options. With access to a vast selection of channels—including popular movies, TV shows, sports, and kids’ programming—there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Whether it’s movie night for the singles in their condo, or a family catching up on the latest sports events like the Olympic Games Paris 2024, or keeping the kids entertained with their favorite cartoons and educational shows, Cignal TV guarantees that all members of the household stay engaged and entertained.

PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans are really designed to keep the whole family connected.To check out the new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All plans, visit this link.

August 15, 2024
Samsung Launches New Shop App in Southeast Asia and Oceania: Greater Value Everywhere
Samsung Electronics Philippines Co. – Samsung Electronics announced the availability of the new Samsung Shop App across select markets in the Southeast Asia and Oceania region, as part of its strategy to elevate and simplify the online shopping journey for Samsung users and fans.

The Southeast Asia and Oceania region continues to see a significant volume of purchases for electronic products made online. According to a study^[1] conducted by Samsung in August 2023, 42.6% of respondents in the region bought electronic devices or home appliances online in the past three months. As such, e-commerce remains an important channel for Samsung to expand its reach and growth to customers that are doing more of their shopping online.

After its launch last year in Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Samsung Shop App is now available in the Philippines; with plans to launch in more markets across Southeast Asia and Oceania. With the Samsung Shop App, users are provided with exclusive access to offers available only on the app. At the same time, the app is also able to personalize offers made available to users depending on their interests, while ensuring they can stay on top of the latest deals of Samsung products via timely notifications in the app. For users making purchases through the Samsung Shop App, flexible payment options such as easy installment payments simplify the purchase process. Users can also easily view delivery details and do real-time tracking for orders made. As a feature benefit, users also have Official Samsung Warranty when purchasing products on the Shop App. At the same time, users can benefit from the Samsung Rewards program, which lets users easily earn and redeem points on every purchase made through the Samsung Shop App.

“Online shopping has always been a promising avenue to reach our customers, and the increase in online shoppers in the region, including the Philippines, tells us there is merit in creating more accessible shopping platforms. As we are continuously seeking ways to improve our customer experience, our goal with the launch of the Samsung Shop App in the Philippines is to bring our products that can help elevate work and play to more Filipinos, and allow them to seamlessly discover the best personalized deals suited for their unique needs and individuality,” says Min Su Chu, President of Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO).

Immersive, app-tastic shopping experiences

With Samsung Shop App, Samsung is elevating the online shopping experience for customers and fans, all from the comfort of wherever they are, in the following ways:
- An optimized shopping experience on mobile devices: The Samsung Shop App will be available on both Android and iOS devices, with a mobile-optimized user interface that is user friendly, as well as a curated selection of the latest Samsung consumer electronics products available for purchase through the app, with the catalog of products available for purchase to be expanded in the months to come. In Q4 of this year, tablet users can take advantage of their larger screens for an optimized shopping experience.
- Real-time order status updates: Customers who make purchases on the Samsung Shop App can view details of orders made and receive real-time delivery notifications. For all purchases, customers are entitled to free shipping.
- Personalized recommendations: The Samsung Shop App will be able to offer personalized content and recommendations for Samsung products, including easy comparisons between users’ current devices and the latest models offered, as well as accessories for owned products.
- Exclusive discounts for students: Students from the Philippines will be able to save big on Samsung devices with exclusive discounts and offers for purchases made through the Samsung Shop App.
- Samsung Members-only benefits: Through the Members App, Samsung Members can be directed to exclusive Members-only discounts, offers, and experiential perks, along with the ability to earn additional loyalty benefits, on the Samsung Shop app.
- Exclusive in-app promotions for all: As part of the Samsung Shop App launch festivities, Samsung customers and users will be able to take advantage of a discount of ₱1,000 off with minimum spend of ₱10,000 using the code APP1KPH upon checkout. Promo is available now until December 31, 2024.
Enjoy the latest deals on the new device releases like the Galaxy Z Flip6 and Galaxy Z Fold6 and wearables like the Galaxy Watch7 Series, Galaxy Watch Ultra, and the Galaxy Buds3 series powered by Galaxy AI. Consumer Electronic products like Bespoke AI Home Appliances, Samsung AI TVs and Smart Monitors are also up for grabs. Check out the best deals today at the Samsung Shop App. Users can also take advantage of Flexible Payment Options: Pay in monthly installments at 0% interest up to 36 months using HSBC, Metrobank, BDO, & BPI credit cards.

Samsung Shop App is available on the Google Play Store, and the App Store. To download and install the Samsung Shop App and take advantage of the promotions on offer, please visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/apps/samsung-shop-app/, or scan the QR code to download.
August 15, 2024
Based on Real Events: 5 Thrilling Reality-Based Films on Lionsgate Play

Sometimes, the most gripping stories aren’t fiction. They’re found in real-life dramas made even more terrifying because they can happen to anyone—including you. Lionsgate Play’s collection of films based on true events all unfold with a heart-pounding intensity. From catastrophic disasters to political intrigue, these films capture the raw intensity of human experience. Prepare to be captivated by these real-life thrillers that prove truth is often stranger—and more terrifying—than fiction.

Deepwater Horizon (2016)

Deepwater Horizon is a gripping dramatization of the catastrophic 2010 oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. Directed by Peter Berg, the film follows the harrowing ordeal of chief electronics technician Mike Williams (Mark Wahlberg) as he and his team fight for survival amidst the inferno. The film offers a tense and dramatic portrayal of the disaster, highlighting the courage of those who risked their lives to escape the burning rig.

The Impossible (2014)

What was supposed to be the Belon family’s idyllic Christmas holiday at a Thailand resort is abruptly shattered by the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. As the powerful waves sweep everything in sight, the family is torn apart, left to survive amidst the chaos. Their desperate struggle to reunite is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Starring Naomi Watts, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Holland, The Impossible offers a raw and emotional portrayal of the Belon family’s experience.

Hotel Mumbai (2018)

Hotel Mumbai is a dramatic retelling of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The film recreates the horrific siege of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, where terrorists from the Lashkar-e-Taiba group held hostages. Against this backdrop of chaos, hotel waiter Arjun (Dev Patel) emerges as a hero, risking his life to protect terrified guests, including a British couple and their child.

7 Days in Entebbe (2018)

7 Days in Entebbe is a gripping thriller recounting the dramatic 1976 hijacking of an Air France flight. Diverted to Entebbe, Uganda. The aircraft becomes a hostage crisis when four terrorists, including Germans Brigitte Kuhlmann (Rosamund Pike) and Wilfried Böse (Daniel Bruhl), seize control, demanding the release of imprisoned militants. As a tense standoff unfolds, the Israeli government orchestrates a daring rescue mission to liberate the passengers from the hijackers’ clutches.

Fair Game (2010)

The dramatic political thriller Fair Game is based on the true story of undercover CIA operative Valerie Palme (Naomi Watts). The film follows the fallout after her husband, Joseph Wilson (Sean Penn), publicly criticized the Bush administration’s claims about Iraq. To discredit Wilson, Palme’s identity was exposed by a politically motivated press leak, shattering her career and jeopardizing her family’s safety.

In the mood for more dramatic thrillers to binge? Check out more titles on Lionsgate Play!

August 15, 2024
KRISPY KREME: Local Favorites 2024

August 14, 2024
KAWS + Warhol UT Collection and Art Book

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the launch of a new UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) collection commemorating the KAWS + Warhol exhibition currently on view at The Andy Warhol Museum in the United States, which will also tour internationally. Items will be available at UNIQLO stores worldwide and via the uniqlo.com online store from Friday, August 23rd.

UNIQLO presents a new unique collaboration between Andy Warhol (1928-1987), a seminal figure in 20th-century art, and KAWS, a leading artist in contemporary art. Combining iconography from both artist’s well-known bodies of work, the collection gives everyone an opportunity to feel close to their art. An art book for the KAWS + Warhol exhibition will also be available exclusively at UNIQLO stores and through uniqlo.com in advance of the publisher’s general release.

Capsule collection from sweats to jackets

The KAWS + Warhol UT Collection, available in full exclusively at UNIQLO*, was made in collaboration with The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, which has for many years continued Warhol’s legacy by presenting art to the world through commercial products created with UNIQLO. The wide range of designs feature KAWS’s popular characters together with Warhol’s famous imagery. Along with T-shirts, the capsule collection includes sweatshirts, coach jackets, socks, tote bags, and a kids’ lineup. All customers, from adults to children, can enjoy the worlds of KAWS and Andy Warhol.
* Some items from the collection will also be available for purchase at the exhibition.

Art book global pre-release

An art book for The KAWS + Warhol exhibition will be available exclusively at UNIQLO stores nationwide and the UNIQLO online store in advance of the publisher’s general release. This new book showcases the art of KAWS and Andy Warhol side-by-side, drawing comparisons and new meanings between two of the most popular artists of the modern era in a way that has never been done before. The substantial content includes an interview with KAWS, essays by art historians and curators, and installation views from the exhibition*. Customers who purchase the book from UNIQLO will also receive a limited edition shoulder bag as a gift. UNIQLO will also conduct a social media campaign that gives customers the chance to win a copy of the art book autographed by KAWS. Furthermore, a huge display of KAWS’s “COMPANION” and reproductions of Warhol artwork featured in the apparel collection will be featured at UNIQLO stores around the world. In the Philippines, special displays will be installed in the UNIQLO Manila Flagship Store in Glorietta 5, and in UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia.
* The art book can be purchased through the website of the publisher (Phaidon Press) from August 23 (Friday), but won’t be shipped until the end of September.

KAWS

KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last two decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO, including by providing designs for the PEACE FOR ALL charity project in 2022, which have been hugely successful worldwide.

The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

As the preeminent American artist of the 20th century, Andy Warhol challenged the world to see art differently. Since its founding in 1987, in accordance with Warhol’s will, The Andy Warhol Foundation has established itself among the leading funders of contemporary art in the United States. The Foundation has distributed nearly $300 million in cash grants which support the creation, presentation and documentation of contemporary visual arts, particularly work that is experimental, under-recognized or challenging in nature. The Foundation’s ongoing efforts to protect and enhance its founder’s creative legacy ensure that Warhol’s inventive, open-minded spirit will have a profound impact on the visual arts for generations to come. Proceeds the Foundation receives from licensing projects such as this contribute to the Foundation’s endowment from which these grants are distributed. www.warholfoundation.org.

August 14, 2024
Celebrate furry companions in Uptown Bonifacio’s fun ‘Petstival’

Uptown Bonifacio welcomes pets of all shapes and sizes in a tail-wagging, purr-fectly delightful “Petstival” celebration from August 15 to 18. This paw-some event is designed to bring together pet lovers, families, and furry companions for a day filled with shopping finds, pet activities, seminars, and a pet adoption event.

Discover a treasure trove of pet products and essentials at the Furry Finds Market from August 15 to 18. Visit a lineup of merchants showcasing the latest in pet fashion, food, and accessories at the Upper Ground Floor, near H&M.

Enhance pet parenting skills with educational workshops and seminars at Pawsitive Insights from August 15 to 16, at the Upper Ground Floor Atrium. Insights will be shared by experts from Animal Wellness Veterinary Hospital and Clinics. To join, you may register on this link: http://bit.ly/Pet-Talk

Looking to expand your family? Visit the Paws and Pals adoption area to meet adorable pets in need of a loving home. In partnership with Biyaya Animal Care, Paws and Pals will take place at the Upper Ground Floor Atrium from August 17 to 18.

Mark the fun ‘Petstival’ day capturing unforgettable moments at the Picture Pawfect photo booth. Find them at the Upper Ground Floor from August 15 to 18.

Petstival at Uptown Bonifacio promises a heartwarming and entertaining experience for participants. Join and celebrate your love for furry friends and connect with a community of fellow pet enthusiasts.

Uptown Bonifacio is Megaworld Lifestyle Malls’ flagship property in Taguig City, offering an expansive range of premium dining, retail, and entertainment options in a dynamic environment. Situated amidst the bustling cityscape, Uptown Bonifacio is a haven for urbanites seeking unforgettable experiences in the heart of Metro Manila.

For more updates on the latest happenings, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call their hotline at (63 2) 8-462-8888 or follow their social media accounts on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/megaworldlifestylemalls), Instagram (@MegaworldLifestyleMalls), and TikTok (@megaworldlifestylemalls).

August 14, 2024
The Grand Launch of Four Points by Sheraton Boracay

Four Points by Sheraton Boracay proudly celebrated its grand launch on August 3, 2024, bringing the time-honored Four Points brand to the island. The event, held at the hotel located in upscale Station 1, just steps away from the iconic White Beach, marked the official opening of the first and only Marriott hotel in Boracay.

The grand launch was attended by an array of distinguished guests and key figures in the hospitality and tourism industries. Among the esteemed attendees were the Governor of Aklan, Hon. Jose Enrique Miraflores; Vice Mayor of Municipality of Malay, Hon. Niño Carlos Cawaling; Marriott Philippines Multi-Property Vice President Bruce Winton; Marriott Regional Vice President for Japan, Philippines, and South Korea, Peter Gassner; Country Representative of Marriott International for Hotel Development Kevin Iranzo; Marriott Senior Communication Manager – South Korea and Philippines Erin Soyeon Lim; All Link Hotel and Resorts Group Limited Inc. Chairman David Chi, Mr. Fermin Romualdez, and members of the owning company George Wei and Eric Hui. The event was also graced by Regional Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez of the Department of Tourism-Region VI.

Hosted by the hotel’s Marketing Manager, Stephanie Cabrejas, the celebration commenced with opening remarks by Charley Magabo, General Manager of Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. He expressed his excitement and gratitude for the tremendous support from the community and stakeholders. Highlighting the Four Points brand, Magabo detailed the series of activities organized to mark the weekend-long celebration. The festivities began with an Associate Parade and Motorcade on August 1, followed by a Marriott Bonvoy kiosk display at Boracay City Mall on August 2. A 3-day media familiarization tour for local and Korean media partners took place from August 2 to 4. The culmination of the celebrations was the Grand Launch Ceremony, a showcase of culinary and cultural experiences that officially inaugurated Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. Following the General Manager’s address, the ribbon-cutting ceremony symbolically opened the doors of the hotel, marking a new chapter for Boracay’s tourism landscape.

The festivities continued with a welcome soiree at the poolside, where guests enjoyed refreshing cocktails and sumptuous canapés while being entertained by a vibrant percussion showcase by Etniko Boracay Drum Beaters. The celebration then transitioned to the Evolution Annex, where guests indulged in a bountiful celebratory brunch feast.

Mr. Bruce Winton highlighted in his welcome speech, “It gives me great pleasure, on behalf of Marriott International, to be here to celebrate the opening of our 10th operating property in the Philippines. We are extremely excited to finally be on the world-famous island of Boracay. As Peter Gassner in development stated, we have been trying for a very long time to be a part of this world-class tourist destination and really sparkle for the Philippines.” He continued, “We are happy to see the success of rehabilitation and the ongoing progress that continue to elevate the destination of Boracay.” He further emphasized the importance of Marriott Bonvoy in driving this growth with its membership of over 204 million members globally. “If we can just bring a percentage of over 200 million loyal Marriott Bonvoy members to the shores of Boracay, then this is a success story in the making.” In his speech, Hon. Governor Jose Enrique Miraflores emphasized the significance of the hotel’s opening in promoting tourism and boosting the local economy. “It is (an) event that I could not miss since this is one brand that we (really) need here in the island of Boracay. So I would like to thank Marriott International and Four Points by Sheraton. We need this kind of hotel and this kind of brand to continue the magic of the island.” He continued, “Last year, I am very happy that the province of Aklan was named as the number 1 fastest growing economy in the entire Philippines, and that is mainly because of the tourism activity of Boracay. With this new hotel and with Marriott International finally here on the island, we can definitely sustain and continue the development and growth of the economy of Boracay and the whole province of Aklan,” Miraflores said.

The event concluded with a symbolic toast joined by Marriott representatives, local government officials, and the hotel’s owners and stakeholders, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting journey for Four Points by Sheraton Boracay. Guests were invited to enjoy a delicious brunch prepared by the hotel’s culinary team while being entertained by vibrant Ati-Atihan cultural display and colorful LED dance performances.

As the newest addition to Marriott International’s portfolio, Four Points by Sheraton Boracay is poised to become the premier lifestyle hotel on the island of Boracay, offering guests a personalized destination experience. With its timeless elegance and commitment to service excellence, the hotel promises to deliver uncomplicated comfort and an authentic stay for all who visit.

For more information, please visit www.fourpointsboracay.com

August 14, 2024