Category: Time Out

Record-setting stamp collection on display exclusively at Robinsons Manila

The youth of today might not be familiar with the joys of stamp collecting given the ease with which they can send out text messages and emails using their smart phones. Despite this, there are still many who maintain and continue to grow their collection of postage stamps.  These people are called philatelists and they protect their precious collections in books lined with acid-free paper that they open and admire from time to time. Fortunately, one philatelist, Kim Robert C. De Leon is sharing his collection of postage stamps featuring Popes at an ongoing exhibit only at Robinsons Manila.

Guinness World Record title holder Mr. Kim Robert De Leon showcases his World Record Certificate and his impressive 2,398 stamp collection at Robinsons Manila. The largest stamp collection hailed by the Guinness World Record is open to public from April 29 to May 4 at Level 3, Lower Food Court area

This particular collection, amassed through the years, consists of 2,398 stamps that garnered for him a mention in the Guinness World Records in 2022. The bulk of his stamp collection is of Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis, both of whom have visited the Philippines.  According to the Guinness Records online entry, “The counting for the evidence took place inside a parish and was overseen by the priest. The event [on February 22, 2022] coincided with the 41st anniversary for the first visit of Pope John Paul II and the Feast of the Chair of Saint Peter, the first Pope.”

The largest collection of stamps featuring Popes can now be viewed by customers at Robinsons Manila from April 29 to May 4 at the mall’s lower food court area.

Visitors to the mall have until May 4 to view De Leon’s collection that was organized by the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPOST) and co-presented by Robinsons Manila through Lingkod Pinoy Center. This notable event is being held as part of the 32nd anniversary of PHLPOST as a corporation under Republic Act 7354. In a statement, the corporation said it takes “immense pride in Mr. De Leon’s remarkable achievement and dedicates a special showcase of the collection available for public viewing allowing enthusiasts, collectors and visitors to marvel at the rich array of stamps.”

Robinsons Malls officials, Guinness World Record title holder Kim Robert De Leon, PHLPost officials, and Boy Scout of the Philippines esteemed guests pose for a photo during the opening ceremony of the Philatelic Exhibit at Robinsons Manila.

The collaboration is proof of the commitment of Robinsons Malls to foster cultural appreciation and engagement within the community. With this exhibit is the hope that people will take an interest in collecting stamps like Mr. De Leon who is also the Secretary General of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. Their US counterpart—the Boy Scouts of America—describe it as “the world’s most popular hobby… enjoyed by millions throughout the world.”

In a charming turn of phrase, postage stamps are likened to “tiny windows that introduce the people of the world to the country’s leaders, customs, history, products and environment.”  With the PHLPOST exhibit at Robinsons Manila, one can add popes to that list.

May 7, 2024
PLDT and Cignal TV support Philippine Hosting of 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship

The Philippines’ world-first solo hosting of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship has gotten a boost as PLDT Inc. (PLDT) and Cignal TV announced their support for the prestigious volleyball tournament taking place on September 12-28, 2025.

(L-R) Sen Alan Peter S. Cayetano, DOT Office of Film and Sports Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III, Mediaquest Holdings Inc. and Cignal TV President and CEO Jane Jimenez Basas, and PNVF President Ramon Suzara at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship press conference at the Marquis Events Place at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

The country’s largest telco network PLDT will be the official broadband partner of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. Cignal TV, the pay TV arm of the MediaQuest Group, will be the event’s official broadcaster.

“This is a great opportunity to inspire a new generation of Filipino athletes and showcase our countrymen’s passion for sports,” said Manuel V Pangilinan, Chairman and CEO of PLDT. “The Philippines is now taking center stage in the world of volleyball. We look forward to working with the DOT and the PNVF to provide a top-notch experience for fans all over the world.”

(Aries’ Photos) DOT Office of Film and Sports Tourism Director Roberto Alabado III, Sen Alan Peter S. Cayetano, PNVF President Ramon Suzara, and MediaQuest Holdings Inc. and Cignal TV President and CEO Jane Jimenez Basas pose with top UAAP, NCAA men’s volleyball players at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship press event.

The Philippines is the first solo host nation of the biggest men’s volleyball tournament in the world. The event will also be the biggest FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship to date, as the tournament format expands to 32 teams. The sport has rapidly grown in popularity in the Philippines over the past few years, with a passionate fanbase supporting highly competitive leagues such as Spikers’ Turf, Premier Volleyball League (PVL), and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League.

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan with Fédération Internationale de Volleyball (FIVB) officers and Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon Suzara (3rd from left) and Secretary-General Don Caringal (rightmost).

“It will be a huge challenge to host the highest-ranking teams and fans from all over the world. But as Filipinos, we know we can create the best environment for everyone to compete at the highest level on our home soil.”, said PNVF president Ramon Suzara.

The Philippine men’s national volleyball team’s preparations will begin with a comprehensive selection process for the player pool and the unveiling of a new team name. Aside from supporting the national team, PLDT was a key partner in the recent 2023 Volleyball Nations League in Manila.

About PLDT

PLDT is the Philippines’ largest fully integrated telco company. Through its principal business groups — from fixed line to wireless — PLDT offers a wide range of telecommunications and digital services across the Philippines’ most extensive fiber optic backbone, and fixed line and cellular networks.

PLDT is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE:TEL) and its American Depositary Shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:PHI). PLDT has one of the largest market capitalizations among Philippine — listed companies.

Further information can be obtained by visiting www.pldt.com

April 29, 2024
Strictly RSVP: Celebrations by Edsa Shangri-La, Manila

Edsa Shangri-La, Manila invites you to be part of something special as it redefines Celebrations by Shangri-La. Just when you thought there were no dress rehearsals to life’s big moments, Edsa Shangri-La, Manila stages the first experience expo designed to showcase creative vision, talent, and inspired collaboration with renowned industry names, set right at your hotel of choice. With 5 celebrations, 3 events, all happening in 1 day, Edsa Shangri-La, Manila presents STRICTLY RSVP.

Following seven years of Unveil: A Wedding Fair by Edsa Shangri-La, the hotel of choice for weddings, special occasions, and celebrations redefines the experience of events exhibits for engaged couples, soon-to-be debutants, young VIPs, and adults with important milestones on the horizon. Capturing intimate gatherings, themed celebrations, and grand receptions, guests will enjoy more than a glimpse of Celebrations by Edsa Shangri-La with its artfully curated sensory soirée.

Strictly RSVP features a series of special packages and premium offers for celebrating urbanites as Edsa Shangri-La helps exploring couples and celebrators with their selection. This journey will culminate in a magnificent celebration featuring esteemed names in styling, production, and events entertainment on 1 June 2024 at multiple locations including: The M Room, Pool Bar: Oven, Fire Pit, Grill, and the Palawan and Isla Ballrooms.

A by invitation only event for selected prospecting guests, Strictly RSVP showcases the fine culinary selection and animation presented by Edsa Shangri-La, Manila’s team of masterful chefs and innovative events and banquet ensemble. For a multidimensional experience, Edsa Shangri-La’s partners in style and elegance join the first experience expo of its kind featuring: Styled Events by Beng Villanueva, Royal Flower Shoppe by Gina Galang, Blooms Event Styling by Allen and JP, Kyno Kho, Nikki Chatto Floral Designs, Jo Claravall, and Flowers & Events by Teddy Manuel.

Kids’ Lab
Young VIPs are in for a treat as we transport from interactive land adventures to a whimsical world of wonder. Artfully designed by Styled Events by Beng Villanueva, The M Room is brought to life with fun bites, colourful concoctions, entertainment stations, and an animated program curated for young cubs to cool ‘tweens. Get ready for the ultimate play date as Edsa Shangri-La presents a taste of what’s cooking in a Kid’s Lab celebration on 1 June 2024 from 1pm to 4pm.

The Big Bash
For themed celebrations and special milestones, guests will be transported from different locations within Your Urban Oasis and exciting points in time in Strictly RSVP’s interactive simulation of The Big Bash. From cocktails in one of the hotel’s unique al fresco event spaces, to the transformation of the Palawan Ballroom, guests are in for a treat at every pit stop. From cocktails, small bites, all the way to the big feast and dinner entertainment, The Big Bash of Strictly RSVP has been designed for birthday celebrators, couples with oncoming anniversary highlights, or working professionals hitting a milestone year. Featuring the inspired creative touch by Royal Flower Shoppe by Gina Galang, Strictly RSVP’s The Big Bash sets out to stir some fun on 1 June 2024 from 4pm to 7pm.

@Eighteen | Ting Hun | Me & You
Enter the world of life’s next chapter, from an independent young adult, couple’s engaging in the fine tradition of commitment, and betrothed pairs preparing to say the big “I Do.” Strictly RSVP transforms the Isla Ballroom to the beauty of themed contrasts with celebrations defined by East and West starring Blooms Event Styling by Allen and JP, Nikki Chatto Floral Designs, Kyno Kho, Jo Claravall, and Flowers & Events by Teddy Manuel. From timeless traditional to contemporary innovative installations, guests are in for a dinner reception that titillates the senses. Post worthy spots, light bites with big flavours, musical entertainment, and a chance to meet and greet the visionary creatives that could be your collaborative partners for your Edsa Shangri-La event await the curated guest list for this exclusive event on 1 June 2024 from 7pm to 10pm.

We cordially invite you to be part of a groundbreaking experience expo which promises to inspire generations upon generations of celebrations at Edsa Shangri-La, Manila.

For more information on our offers, email events.esl@shangri-la.com.

Visit www.shangri-la.com/manila/edsashangrila or like and follow us on our social media pages facebook.com/edsashangrila and @edsashangrila on Instagram to stay connected.

April 23, 2024
TAG Resort Coron Selected as Venue for World Bank International Sustainability Workshop

Coron, with its stunning natural beauty and commitment to sustainable tourism, was the chosen venue for a significant World Bank conference focusing on sustainable landscape management. The three-day workshop brought together environmental experts, international stakeholders, and delegates — including country representatives from Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, the US, Singapore, and South Korea — to discuss regional best practices in recognizing forest land rights and sustainable landscape management.

Co-organized by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Global Partnership for Sustainable and Resilient Landscapes (PROGREEN), and the World Bank multi-donor trust fund Enhancing Access to Benefits while Lowering Emissions (EnABLE), the workshop was held at eco-luxury hotel TAG Resort Coron. The event served as a platform for interactions between the World Bank officials, environmental experts, and the Tagbanua community leaders. With an agenda comprising land rights recognitions and exchanges on conservation strategies, the conference culminated with the awarding of Certificates of Ancestral Land Titles to the indigenous communities.

Present at the event as speakers and facilitators were Palawan Governor Victorino Dennis Socrates, Coron Mayor Mario Reyes, Jr., NCIP Chairperson Jennifer Pia Sibug-Las, PROGREEN’s Patricia Kristjanson, Senior Social Development Specialist Satoshi Ishihara, as well as NCIP officials and key World Bank officials.

TAG Resort Coron: The Epitome of Eco-Conscious Business Hospitality

The World Bank East Asia and Pacific Workshop on Recognition and Formalization of Land Rights in Forest Areas selected TAG Resort Coron as its official venue and sole accommodation provider for the international delegates after rigid screenings. The resort, which also champions eco-conscious tourism, boasts the largest ballroom in Coron, accommodating a large contingent of international delegates. Complementing its impressive event space are 112 rooms with all-inclusive amenities, ensuring a luxurious and restful stay for all attendees.

“It is a privilege to be hosting this World Bank workshop which will further enhance cooperation in recognizing IP rights over ancestral lands and push for greater sustainable management of our forests,” said Stephen Rey Tagud, TAG Resorts, Inc. Managing Director. “The preservation of living heritage and the environment is really an integral part of our business DNA, and we welcome more opportunities to host worthwhile events like these in the future which serve as platforms for discourse and plans of action.”

With its successful hosting of the World Bank’s significant workshop, TAG Resort Coron reiterates its capability as a prime destination for business events — especially those that require a blend of luxury and eco-tourism.

April 19, 2024
SM, ASP unite for an Autism-OK Philippines with ASP Angels Walk for Autism

The Autism Society Philippines Angels Walk for Autism, held in partnership with SM Cares, returns to the MOA Arena! More than just a walk, it is a united show of support for the autism community and a call to build an Autism-OK Philippines.

This year’s ASP Angels Walk for Autism aims to bring together families, professionals, and allies from the private and government sectors, here and abroad. The main event happens at the Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, 21 April 21, 2024, with simultaneous walks taking place in Cebu and Davao. More walks are happening at later dates in Iloilo, and Lucena.

The main ASP Angels Walk for Autism, first launched in 2000, was first held in SM MOA in 2009 before finding a home at the MOA Arena in 2015. The advocacy event continues to resonate with the autism community and its allies, even finding supporters in the Filipino diaspora in North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. In the Philippines, the Autism Society Philippines has grown to an astonishing 13,000 members across 103 chapters.

The ASP Angels Walk for Autism is a powerful platform for the celebration of Filipinos on the autism spectrum and the call for acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation — impactful action beyond “awareness”! This year, the ASP honors those who have played an important role in disability-inclusive economic empowerment with the battle cry “Kakaiba, Kasali, Katrabaho!”. The Hans T. Sy Leadership Award 2024 goes to Michelle Dee, Miss Philippines Universe 2023, ASP Goodwill Ambassador and a progressive voice for disability inclusion.

‘Want to show your support for the autism community and be part of the movement? Register to participate in the ASP Angels Walk for Autism for free via the SM Online App now. Each user is eligible for 1 event pass, however, registered families can redeem up to 10 passes.

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization working towards an environment that empowers persons on the autism spectrum to become the best of their potential — self-reliant, independent, productive, and socially accepted members of an Autism-OK Philippines. ASP labors to establish institutional mechanisms to support neurodiverse persons and their families. Established in 1989, the organization — composed of 13,000 members spread over 100 chapters — has been at the forefront of providing services to families and individuals on the autism spectrum. #AutismOKPH

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Aside from the program on PWDs, its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares #SupportingCommunities

April 19, 2024
Going green? Get some inspiration from these brands doing their bit for the planet

With a deeper understanding of how our actions can impact the planet, it’s no surprise that more people are doing their share and finding ways to care for Mother Earth. Shangri-La Plaza is one with all the advocates and hopes to support a gentler lifestyle by sharing an inspired list of brands that are doing their bit.

Truly enjoy a cup of good brew from local roaster Candid Coffee. Their 100% compostable cups are made from sustainable bamboo plants with sugarcane bagasse cup lids and straws that are all free from sneaky plastic coating. Japanese lifestyle brand MUJI has always been committed to recycling and cutting packaging waste, and it’s helping guests do the same by offering water refilling service at their Shang store. Just bring your own bottle!

Recycled materials also shine as The Travel Club+ carries hip Herschel bags crafted from 100% recycled EcoSystem™ fabrics made of repurposed water bottles. Japanese eyewear brand Owndays pitches in with its Filipino-designed Cases for Change wherein 100% of the sales go to non-profits such as Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions (CURMA) that’s collected 1600 pounds of trash in 2023 alone as part of its efforts to protect sea turtles and conserve the marine ecosystem in La Union. The Marketplace also strides towards a cleaner future by carrying limited-edition “Seas the Day” shopping bags, with proceeds going to marine conservation organization Save Philippine Seas.

Gadget geeks for the planet can head over to Power Mac Center for the first-ever carbon neutral Apple Watch Series, integrating recycled materials into its watchband while running on clean electricity and cutting down on fossil fuels in its supply chain. Playtime just got a lot kinder to Mother Earth too, as LEGO now makes bricks from renewable materials like sugarcane-based bio-PE and recycled materials from kitchen worktops.Iconic American apparel retailer Gap is pulling its weight for the environment. Its Washwell techniques in making denim and woven bottoms have already saved over 830 million liters of water since 2016. New Balance steps towards a better planet by using preferred leather and recycled polyester in its shoes, reducing environmental impacts and a reliance on fossil fuels.

Apart from choosing consciously made products, Shangri-La Plaza has also encouraged everyone to speak up and pledge their support for the environment with its #IStandWithMotherEarth Pledge Wall up during the recent Earth Hour celebration. It served as a reminder about what everyone can do for the planet and to apply these eco-friendly swaps and commitments in their everyday lives. The Earth Hour initiative also included the candle-lit LIVE at the Shang! Turn Up the Dark acoustic event featuring Viva Records artists Amiel Sol, Marielle Belleza, Michael Keith, CARLO, and Minimal Days.

To round it all out, Shang is set to host an exciting post-Earth Day outdoor workout session with boutique cycling studio Ride Revolution at the Sky Garden on April 27.

With collective action bringing us more hope for the future, Shangri-La Plaza hopes to inspire more people to take little steps in making everyday Earth Day.

For updates and inquiries, follow Shangri-La Plaza on Facebook at www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficial and on Instagram @shangrilaplazaofficial.

April 18, 2024
Watsons Makes a Difference by Providing Free Healthcare to Filipinos Through First Medical Mission This 2024

Watsons has been conducting Alagang Pangkalusugan initiatives since 2013 in the country’s various regions, doing good for others by helping to provide free diagnostic tests and medications to areas in need through these medical missions.

As the country’s leading health retailer, Watsons remains committed to its sustainability goals of helping to uplift the health and well-being of the community by bringing healthcare closer and more accessible through such initiatives like the Alagang Pangkalusugan medical missions. The initiative that started in 2013 has been servicing numerous communities in quest of bringing together a healthier nation. To start the year off, the initiative has started strong with two Alagang Pangkalusugan medical missions.

Alagang Pangkalusugan heads to Visayas in the first quarter of the year. Medical missions kicked-off last February 21, 2024 in CEO Gym in Tacloban, Leyte. The initiative helped 725 beneficiaries where they were given free services like medical consultation, BP monitoring, ECG, blood glucose monitoring, uric/hemoglobin/cholesterol tests, chest X-ray. Watsons also gave the patients free medicines and vitamins.

The second Medical Mission was held in one of the biggest gyms in the province in Calape, Bohol. The largest Watsons medical mission to date, 948 total beneficiaries were served with additional services like tooth extraction, hearing tests, bone screening along with eye exams with free reading glasses, thanks to the brand sponsors and LGU partners.

SM Foundation, LGUs from the Province of Bohol and Tacloban along with partner brands were present in joining Watsons’ commitment to provide free health check-ups for underserved communities.

In the past year, Watsons has seen a spike in employee volunteers who have devoted their time to give back to our local communities around the country. Opportunities of volunteering are always taken by employees to embody doing good as mentioned in the retailer’s tagline of “Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great”.

“Since 2013, Alagang Pangkalusugan has benefited over 7,000 Filipinos. We are very proud to be a partner of Filipino families in their journey to good health and to help those who have little or no access to medical consultations and services. This is part of the Watsons sustainability program’s commitment under the community pillar,” said Belle Pesayco, People – Supporting Communities Pillar Lead for Watsons PH.

With such a great turnout to start the year, Watsons is set to bring the Alagang Pangkalusugan initiative to even more areas and communities in different parts around the country.

April 14, 2024
Plant a Tree for Free with Every GCash Transaction & Join GForest
The Philippines is one of the most biodiverse archipelagos in the world and is home to over 50,000 described species of plants.

However, due to activities such as deforestation, habitat exploitation, waste disposal and pollution, the Philippines is rapidly losing numerous plant species that contribute to its vibrant tropical habitat. To combat the negative effects of climate change, GCash is actively helping to plant trees in the Philippines through GForest.

With GForest, all GCash users can contribute to the preservation of the environment – and you can too. When you plant trees virtually on GForest, GCash transforms these into real trees to support the preservation of our forest reserves.

How It Works: Earning Green Energy Points So You Can Start Planting Trees

For every successful GCash transaction, you can earn a certain amount of Green Energy Points and collect it 24 hours later in GForest in the app. You can collect green energy points when you Buy Load, Send Money, Pay Bills, Cash-In, or even when you register up to 20,000 steps per day from walking. Every transaction is a real contribution, so it’s important to collect energy every day.

When you have enough Green Energy points, you can plant a virtual tree that will be planted by GCash and its local and international partners in key locations nationwide.

There are different types of trees to choose from, including the new Cannonball Mangrove, the Red Mangrove, and sometimes, there are even limited edition trees that can be planted at certain times of the year, such as a limited edition Pine Tree in December 2023. You can choose between the different types of trees GCash offers, depending on Green Energy Points you have and what different types of trees are worth. Usually, the more energy points required to plant a specific tree, the more effective the tree will be in helping sequester carbon from the environment.

For Every Tree Planted on GForest, GCash Turns it into a Real One

GForest ensures that every virtual plant collected is converted into a real tree. To date, GCash has planted over 2.7 million actual trees in 14 key areas nationwide as of 2023). An estimated 346,000 trees have been planted in Luzon, 1.1 million in Visayas and 1.1 million in Mindanao.

An estimated 8,600 smallholder farming families have benefited from this initiative. GForest is not only helping the environment, it also helps improve the livelihood of farmers in climate change affected areas in the Philippines.

A Step-By-Step Guide On Using GForest

Using GForest and planting real trees from the comfort of your own home is easy as following four simple steps:
1. Earn green energy points when you use GCash. Transactions like sending money, paying bills, buying load, and cashing-in your wallet will earn you points.
2. Next, collect your green energy points after 24 hours of your transaction on the GForest dashboard. Tap on your points to collect them – you can also collect points from your friends!
3. When you have enough points to plant a tree, head to the GForest virtual nursery and choose a tree to plant.
4. Once you’ve selected a tree, exchange your points to plant a virtual free – and then, GCash and its partners will plant a reel tree on your behalf! You’ll even receive a certificate for your valuable contribution to the country’s biggest digital eco-movement.
Through GCash, you can be part of a bigger digital eco-movement to rebuild our country’s forests. Keep giving back to the environment with a gift that will surely benefit it for many years to come. Be a green hero and contribute to rebuilding our forests – one digital tree at a time when you use GCash.
April 11, 2024
A Cup of Change: Starbucks Philippines Brews Opportunities for Tondo’s Youth

Starbucks Philippines is no stranger to stirring up more than just your favorite beverages; they’re brewing real change in the community, too. Last September 2023 marked a milestone for the coffee giant as it opened the doors to its first-ever Community Store in Abad Santos, Tondo, Manila. This isn’t just any Starbucks outlet—it’s a beacon of hope and empowerment for the area’s young minds.

Brewing a Brighter Future

In a meaningful partnership with Young Focus and AHA! Learning Center, the Tondo Community Store goes beyond serving coffee; it serves the youth. A slice of every purchase goes directly into scholarships and after-school learning programs for out-of-school youngsters. This initiative shines a light on Starbucks’ commitment to nurturing the community it thrives in, ensuring every sip contributes to a child’s brighter tomorrow.

Education as the Perfect Blend

Starbucks’ Community Store is more than a place for coffee aficionados; it’s a hub for growth and learning. By supporting Young Focus Foundation’s scholarship programs and AHA! Learning Center’s complimentary after-school tutoring, Starbucks is helping mold the future leaders of the Philippines. These programs offer a well-rounded curriculum focusing not just on academic excellence but also on social-emotional development—preparing students for real-world challenges.

Empowering Women, Empowering Communities

In alignment with Women’s Month, the spotlight shines on empowering the women leaders of tomorrow. Starbucks Philippines invited pioneering women from various industries to engage with the youth scholars. These sessions, rich with discussions on mental health, career development, and environmental responsibility, aim to inspire and motivate. It’s about showing these young women that their dreams have no limits, and their gender is not a barrier to success.

Jamie Silva, senior manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience & Loyalty at Starbucks Philippines, spoke on the importance of having a clear career vision and the flexibility to navigate diversity. “Prior to joining Starbucks, I explored various industries to broaden my perspective,” Jamie shared. “There is no single prescribed career trajectory. By embracing the transformative power of education and a forward-thinking mindset, no limitations can constrain your journey. Forge your path as a woman empowered to shape her own destiny.” Through her journey, Jamie exemplifies the significance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the pursuit of one’s passions to carve out a fulfilling career path.

Lynn Pinugu is the the co-founder of Mano Amiga Philippines and She Talks Asia who has continued to use her strong voice to advocate for women empowerment and mental wellness. Having a strong background in helping women in different stages of their lives, Lynn is passionate about taking care of one’s mental wellness and shared her experiences as a woman leader in her field. “Being surrounded by like-minded women really helped me in my career and of course, has a positive impact on my mental wellness. In empowering women, it is also important that you yourself are an empowered woman, and this includes finding self-care practices that fit you and your needs,” she shared.

Multi-awarded Filipina filmmaker and director Antoinette Jadaone spoke on the importance of using the platform you are given for good. The films that she produced over the years allow her to tell different stories that the audience may relate to, further reaching various individuals who may be going through the same experiences. “Making films is unique and exciting, but it is also a very powerful position to be in and I make it a point to never forget this. Anyone, even little girls, can have the opportunity to see my films so I know that I have a responsibility that I do not take lightly.” Filmmaking is a male-dominated industry, and she is determined to make her mark in hopes of representing women and inspiring the next generation to do the same.

Anina Rubio is a sought-after visual artist who uses art to spread her personal advocacy for sustainability and environmental conservation. She strongly encourages the youth to do their part in taking care of the planet. “We can all take care of the planet in our own, small ways. A personal example is when I order my favorite Starbucks drink, I make sure to always bring a reusable cup to minimize my usage of plastic. These little acts of service for the planet will go a long way.” Starbucks Philippines is committed to strengthening the communities it serves through Sustainability and care for the planet.

A Toast to the Future

Starbucks Philippines envisions its Community Store as more than a place for coffee; it’s a ground for cultivating dreams and ambitions. Jamie Silva, reflecting on the initiative, emphasized the importance of education in shaping a generation capable of breaking norms and pursuing their passions fearlessly. Starbucks’ dedication to this cause underscores a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of community support and education. “Our Community Store’s dedication to youth education underscores our mission to make a meaningful impact on the next generation within our local communities,” says Jamie Silva. “As we celebrate International Women’s Day and honor our future leaders, it’s crucial to recognize the pivotal role education plays in shaping progressive thinkers and empowering women to break free from societal constraints, allowing them to excel in their endeavors and pursue their passions.”

Join the Movement

Witness firsthand how your cup of coffee can change lives. For more behind-the-scenes looks at Starbucks Philippines’ community-driven efforts and to stay updated on their upcoming events and initiatives, make sure to visit starbucks.ph/stories and follow them across all social media platforms.

By choosing Starbucks, you’re not just picking a coffee; you’re picking a cause. Together, let’s brew a difference, one cup at a time.

April 8, 2024
Hilton Honored for Third Consecutive Year as Top Hospitality Company to Work For in the Philippines
Leading global hospitality company Hilton (NYSE: HLT) has been recognized once again as one of the best workplaces in the Philippines, by global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work®. Placed #3 in the medium-sized organization category, this also marks the third consecutive year that Hilton was ranked as the top hospitality company to work for in the list.

The recognition, a result of Great Place to Work®’s annual workforce study in the country, evaluates metrics such as trust, the provision of opportunities for all employees to reach their full potential, as well as all employees’ daily experience of the company’s values.

“Nurturing an environment that empowers our Team Members across all backgrounds and roles to thrive both personally and professionally has always been a key priority at Hilton. Receiving this accolade for the third year running underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering a great workplace culture anchored on inclusion, wellness, growth and purpose. Our Team Members are the secret to our success, and we will continue to be committed to empower them to bring their best selves to work,” said Alexandra Murray, vice president, regional head of South East Asia.

To help Team Members realize the myriad of growth opportunities at Hilton and enable a best-in-class employee experience, Hilton’s initiatives include:
- Thrive@Hilton, the company’s industry-leading program and employer proposition that provides meaningful opportunities for growth and personal development
- Care for All, a new industry-leading mental wellness and caregiving initiative that provides the tools and resources for team members to care for themselves, as well asthose closest to them.
- Hilton SEA Management Trainee program, that seeks to attract, retain, and nurture young talent across Hilton’s hotels in South East Asia, serving as a pipeline for the next generation of leaders in hospitality to grow and hone their leadership capabilities.
- Women In Leadership (WIL) initiative, a newly launched initiative to help women leaders across South East Asia grow in both professional and personal capacities, through various learning and development programs such as workshops, eLearning, as well as mentoring and networking sessions.
- Lead@Hilton, an industry-leading platform that offers a suite of learning resources on management and leadership, including virtual development programs created in partnership with Harvard.
- Careers@Hilton, to provide guidance and highlight opportunities for young people in the hospitality industry through annual awareness campaigns.
- Go Hilton, the company’s popular team member travel program which offers discounted travel benefits.
- GoFlexi!, a new flexible work initiative in South East Asia launched in response to the evolving nature of work and the diverse needs of Team Members to provide an accommodating work environment that values wellness, while enhancing employee engagement and overall productivity.
Beyond various initiatives for Team Members, Hilton also contributes to the growth of the hospitality industry in the Philippines. To build the next generation of hospitality leaders, Hilton properties in the Philippines have partnered with Punlaan School to offer scholarships and training programs for underprivileged young women passionate about growing a career in hospitality, while equipping them with life skills.

To determine the Philippine’s Best Workplaces™️ 2024 List, Great Place To Work®️ analyzed confidential survey feedback from over 450,000 employees across different industries in the country through the Culture Management platform Emprising®️ and the Trust Index Survey™️.

For more information about joining the Hilton team, visit jobs.hilton.com.
April 6, 2024