Level Up With Cetaphil Ultra Protect

Cetaphil celebrated the launch of Cetaphil Ultra Protect with the Level-Up Series to advocate the importance of whole-body wellness, including healthy skin.

This fitness activation took place in four different boutique fitness studios: Electric Studio for that cardio fix, ONELIFE Private Studio to elongate the body, Polecats to learn how to move confidently, and now Rebel to lean in and discover that well of inner strength.

Each event was met with excitement from present content creators and members of the media, especially those who hadn’t done the chosen activities before. Because there were four different studios, each with different exercises, Cetaphil was able to provide a variety of experiences.

Cetaphil encouraged everyone to get fit in the name of holistic health, after which a full wash with Cetaphil Ultra Protect was encouraged because Cetaphil knows that the skin is the first line of defense against germs; hence it is necessary to make it as fit as the body.

Bodies were sweating in full force, muscles were pushed to the limit, and endorphins reached an all-time high, all in time to try Cetaphil Ultra Protect and to see the importance of having a clean, moisturized body.

Cetaphil Ultra Protect

Cetaphil Ultra Protect is a cleansing bar that combines the benefits of wider germ protection with gentle yet intense skin hydration.

There are no compromises with its 3D Derma-Mimic Technology that cleanses the skin at an antimicrobial level with a dermatological tried-and-tested formulation, which repairs the skin barrier’s defense against water loss.

It washes away 99.9% of germs and is specifically designed for frequent daily use, preventing and soothing skin irritation. The skin is now instantly protected and hydrated.

As the holidays are coming up and it is once more time to see friends and family, now more than ever, it is time to #BeUltraProtected with Cetaphil Ultra Protect.

The new Cetaphil Ultra Protect Antimicrobial Cleansing Bar is available at the official Cetaphil Philippines stores in Lazada and Shopee. You can also find Cetaphil products at Mercury Drug, Watsons’ stores, and supermarkets nationwide.

Kasama Ka Bukas: Student-first brand Bukas marks over half a billion tuition funded for the Filipino youth

Inspired to reach more remarkable milestones and go beyond education financing

Manila, Philippines - Four years into its mission of bridging the education gap in the country, Bukas hits a momentous milestone of funding over P500M worth of tuition for Filipino students in hopes of a brighter future.

Funding The Future

Bukas, a tech-enabled education financing platform by its parent company ErudiFi, stemmed from the vision of building a better tomorrow for Filipino youth starting with affordable tuition loans. In its operation, the student-first brand has helped over 15,000 students across 90 partner campuses nationwide, proof of its consistent year-on-year growth.

Having onboarded more partners this year including expansions in Bacolod and Zamboanga, Bukas broadens its reach to help more Filipino students. Partners in Metro Manila include De La Salle University, Centro Escolar University, Technological Institute of the Philippines, Adamson University, Mapua University, National Teachers College, Our Lady of Fatima University, Far Eastern University, and FEU Tech among others. In line with the vision of delivering inclusive and accessible education, Bukas is also partnered with schools outside the metro including Saint Louis University, Cebu Institute of Technology-University, PHINMA Education, and the University of the Visayas, and is looking forward to growing this list soon.

The company’s growth also attests to the actual demand for accessible education financing in the country. "Despite the pandemic the past 2 years, we've managed to continuously grow our portfolio. We're confident that we can scale the business to help even more students continue their studies for a better tomorrow," says Jon Robert Emlano, President of Bukas.

Angel Aquino, a nursing graduate of Universidad de Dagupan, expresses her thanks for Bukas’ help, "My school recommended Bukas to me. Thank you very much, Bukas, for the opportunity na binigay niyo sa isang tulad kong estudyanteng ina para po makapagtapos o mairaos ko ang aking pag-aaral. Dahil po sa inyo ay naipagpatuloy ko po nang maayos yung pag-aaral ko."

Kasama Ka Bukas

A student’s journey can be quite a rollercoaster ride–grueling projects, suspenseful grade reveals, nerve-wracking presentations, and on top of it all is the pressure to do well. Surviving student life requires a strong support system, and Bukas is determined to be part of that for many young Filipinos.

Going beyond providing tuition loans, Bukas launched its "Kasama Ka Bukas" campaign where students may expect help for their studies in more ways than one.

• Content. The Bukas Blog offers a wide array of content from the course, career, and financial literacy that can help students navigate through their journey.
• Advice. To maximize each student’s learning, Bukas works together with partner schools to mount online and offline events that will help students discover more about their passions, seek advice to guide them on their path and discover new opportunities to help enrich their lives.
• Community. Joined by the same vision of achieving a brighter tomorrow through education, Bukas reinforces the importance of one’s support system. Uplifted by inspiring stories and shared experiences, students, through an exclusive community, can come together to create valuable connections.

With Bukas showing no signs of slowing down, the team is determined to add more value to the lives of its students and partner schools, and overall improve the state of education in the country through education financing and beyond.

"Our goal next year is to be aggressive in covering more schools outside Metro Manila, providing better access to affordable financing across the country. We are also working on expanding our products and services to cater to more students and improve the user experience for the school admin and the students," shares Emlano.

ROASTERS FOR ALL: MAGNOLIA CHICKEN TIMPLADOS ROASTERS

Special salu-salo and need mo ba ng easy to whip up dish? Ihain na ang timplang bongga with Magnolia Chicken Timplados Ready-to-Cook Roasters Lemon Herb or Smoked Pepper Roast! Kahit anong occasion, swak na swak sya kasi no need to marinate. #Madalicious ihain each time na may craving for roast chicken ang pamilya. Plus, it’s a great food offering too sa mga upcoming get-togethers and handa this holiday season.

Other than eating it as is, ang Magnolia Chicken Timplados Roasters ay perfect din for rice and pasta-based dishes, mga casseroles, filling ng pot pies, pang soups, salads and sandwiches. Daming recipe ideas!

Magnolia Chicken Timplados Roasters is juicy #PambansangManok infused with herbs and fresh flavors, para sa homestyle celebrations ng buong family. Each Magnolia Chicken Timplados Roasters is made from fresh chicken, raised in stress-free environments, and packed at its peak of freshness in Selyado Sigurado packs. 'Yan ang Alagang Magnolia!

Kaya ano pa hinihintay niyo? I-level up na ang roast chicken handa with Magnolia Chicken Timplados Roasters. Make it a special salu-salo.

Cooking Instructions:

Thaw chicken overnight. Preheat oven or turbo broiler to 220◦C for 15 minutes. Place chicken breast-side up in a baking tray and cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Available in Magnolia Chicken Stations or shop online via San Miguel Mart.

RP BLU BOYS START WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN

After months of grueling preparations, RP Blu Boys begin their quest for World Cup glory as they tackle powerhouse TEAM USA on November 26 at Rosedale Park, Auckland, New Zealand.

The Philippine’s Men’ National Softball, who qualified for the World via a strong runner-up finish in the Asia Qualifiers, is bracketed in Group A with very strong teams such as Argentina, USA, Cuba, Czech Republic, and host, New Zealand.

"Our RP Blu Boys’ confidence is on a high. They have been doing well in practice and in tune-up games and we hope to translate those into good performances in the upcoming games. It will be a tall order but we’re gunning for a win or 2 against the very strong teams in our bracket.", said ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier.”

"Our boys are ready. Preparations have gone well and we are all eager to compete. We don’t want to make any promises except for giving our best every game, every inning and hopefully, we should pull off some upset." - RP Blu Boys Head Coach, Jasper Cabrera.

The WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup is slated on November 26-December 4 in Auckland, New Zealand. Other participating countries comprising Bracket B are equally strong Teams, Japan, Canada, Venezuela, and Denmark.

Rex Education enhances learning resources in Philippine history and social sciences in partnership with PSSC, PNHS, and PHA

Rex Education hosted a memorandum signing with the Philippine Social Science Council (PSSC), the Philippine National Historical Society (PNHS), and the Philippine Historical Association (PHA) on September 6, 2022 to seal a fellowship program centered on Philippine history.

Signatories of the memorandum pose for a picture. From L-R: Miss Jeanne Marie F. Tordesillas, Chief Marketing Officer of Rex Education; Dr. Excelsa C. Tongson, Chairperson of Philippine Social Sciences Council; Don Timothy I. Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of Rex Education; Professor Emeritus Dr. Ma. Luisa T. Camagay, Representative from the Philippine Historical Association; Dr. Marcelino M. Macapinlac, Jr., Representative from the Philippine National Historical Society

The program's primary goal is to develop a compendium on Philippine history that could serve as reference material for writing and publishing future history-centered textbooks. A careful selection of fellows knowledgeable about specific periods in Philippine history would be conducted to ensure the accuracy and credibility of the compendium.

In line with REX’s pledge of providing relevant and timeless learning solutions, the program would ideally improve the content of learning materials in history and social studies.

"This fellowship program brings together the academe, civil society, and private sector toward the common goal of serving Filipino learners. REX believes that looking back at where we all came from is important in enabling our learners, teachers, and communities." -  Don Timothy Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of Rex Education

For every Filipino learner

PSSC stands as the project’s implementing agency alongside REX. PHA and PNHS, two local and professional historical associations, will collaborate with REX and PSSC to oversee the compendium’s development.

"This wonderful, novel project will benefit all learners. History is not only for the young; it is for learners of all ages," PSSC Chairperson Dr. Excelsa Tongson shared.

Dr. Bernardita Churchill, president of PNHS and president emeritus of the PSA and MSA, also highlighted the importance of corroborating history in a country as diverse as the Philippines. "The plan is to enhance the study and teaching of Filipino culture and create an inclusive history that will present the multiethnic history of the Filipino. A serious study of our history and culture would settle doubts and questions about our identity as a nation."

A worthwhile endeavor for the future of education

REX’s goal for the program is to provide authoritative reference materials in the writing and publishing of history textbooks.

Dr. Marcelino Macapinlac Jr., a representative from PNHS and a professor for over three decades, believes that the references that will be produced by the fellowship will further capacitate authors and those in the academe as they enlighten learners about Philippine history.

The development of well-researched historical resources invites not only educators but also the youth to reflect on our national history and culture. Dr. Ma. Luisa Camagay, president of the PHA and professor emeritus, Department of History, UP Diliman, and Dr. Macapinlac noted that the current generation of learners has become more discerning of the sources they consume.

"I find that those who finish the K to 12 programs are better prepared and more engaged [in the study of history]," said Dr. Macapinlac. He noted that the last national elections highlighted how his students are now more passionate and engaged, but the bigger challenge lies in maintaining that passion in the long run.

"I hope Filipinos will not consider history just as a classroom or University course, but it should be a lifetime interest—whether Philippine, Southeast Asian or world history," Dr. Camagay concluded.

To keep up with news about the program, be sure to follow Rex Education’s Facebook page.

Be the Best Gift Giver Ever for the Holidays with this one-stop shop

With Avon, finding the perfect gifts this Holiday season has never been this easy!

Manila, Philippines – With Christmas lists growing longer every year, it’s easier to just buy one generic item in bulk and hope that everyone likes the same thing.

But the most thoughtful gifts are often tailored for the receiver. Fortunately, there’s a shop that can help you pick specific gifts for each person you love! Avonshop.ph offers a wide selection of gifts you can grab, wrap, and send to just about everyone, from the homebodies to the aesthetic kweens.

Know someone that smells their best wherever they go? Avon has Fragrance Giftsets for Him and for Her like Black Suede and Imari Seduction that reel in the senses. Each kit includes three products for daily use helping them exude confidence with every spray.

If your loved one likes to pamper themselves, the Planet Spa by Avon might just be the perfect gift! The Planet Spa Mediterranean Olive Oil Body Scrub and Body Moisturizer will help them exfoliate and unwind with ease. Add the Planet Spa Hand Cream and Body Balm for good measure and see them light up for the season.

If they’re skin-thusiasts who spend a lot of time on skincare, then the Anew Mini Kits will be a perfect addition to their routine! Give them the glow-up they deserve with the Radiant & Luminous Skin Regimen or the Plumper and Youthful Looking Skin Regimen—each complete with a travel-size Serum and Day and Night creams.

Got a homebody friend who loves turning their space into a sanctuary? Avon Home Scents can definitely add to their home’s tranquility and give a calming scent-station all day. Choose the Aroma Diffuser with a beautiful color-changing design and soothing fragrance oils or indulge their senses with Reed Diffusers, which also come in a luxurious gift box that matches the equally luxurious scents.

Do they like expressing themselves through the art of makeup? Make this season more colorful for both of you and check out the Power Stay High Voltage Spark Liquid Lip with a long-lasting glittery color payoff, perfect for this year’s Holiday parties. But if they want their eyes to do the talking, then the Avon Wonderland Eye Palette offers 9 rich and intense shades that blend seamlessly for an alluring look.

What’s a holiday look if not complete with the right accessories to go with it? With Avon, you can find a variety of jewelry, watches, and other accessories that can complete your loved one’s look in time for the holidays—like the Merrymood Wardrober Set that comes in a whimsical, ready-to-gift box that includes 1 necklace chain, 3 pendants, and 3 pairs of earrings!

Gifting is easy when you shop somewhere that has something for everyone. That is why you can be the Best Gift Giver Ever this season when you go to avonshop.ph and find new products with irresistible deals for 12 weeks, starting from October to December!

"Giving gifts to loved ones should always be thoughtful, personal, and meaningful because that’s what makes the holidays more memorable. With Avon, you can be the best gift giver by finding gorgeous gifts at amazing deals and irresistible prices, so you won’t have to eat up your holiday budget!" - Anna Garces, Avon Philippines Marketing Director 

Shop these gorgeous gifts and more at www.avonshop.ph or contact your friendly Avon representative to get personalized suggestions. Follow Avon Philippines on Facebook and Instagram for more updates.

Rex Education Showcases Lifelong Learning Solutions at the 2022 CEAP National Convention

Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer (leftmost); Danda Crimelda Buhain, chief external affairs officer (3rd from the right); and Jeanne Marie Fontelera-Tordesillas, chief marketing officer (rightmost) with Rex Education staff at the 2022 CEAP Rex Education Hub

After two virtual events during the pandemic, the 2022 Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) National Convention is back on the ground with Rex Education and a strong delegation of educators, school heads, and superintendents from all over the country.

Situated within the post-pandemic context, the 2022 CEAP National Convention hopes to bring together the learnings and experiences of schools that are recovering slowly from the challenges of the past 2 years and help them. All educators and learners collaborate more to move education forward progressively and spiritually.

The theme, "Pilgrims of Hope Moving Forward in Synodality," is inspired by the Holy Year 2025 motto, "Pilgrims of Hope," which represents the theme of Pope Francis’ pontificate. It also calls upon the journeying of various education sector members as one Church, as prescribed by Pope Francis in his Global Compact on Education message in October 2020.

"To educate is always an act of hope, one that calls for cooperation in turning a barren and paralyzing indifference into another way of thinking that recognizes our interdependence," said Pope Francis during the speech.

"The journey of life calls for hope grounded in solidarity. All change requires a process of education in order to create new paradigms capable of responding to the challenges and problems of the contemporary world, of understanding and finding solutions to the needs of every generation, and in this way contributing to the flourishing of humanity now and in the future."

Rex Education Hub: A Lifelong Learning Journey

Building on the theme of the 2022 CEAP National Convention, the Rex Education Hub was created for delegates to have a glimpse of every Filipino learner's lifelong learning journey through rediscovering REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development.

The Rex Education Hub showcased REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development

The hub was also designed for delegates to feel renewed excitement about learning in all life stages and to collaborate more and innovate further in support of quality education.

"The journey of life is a journey of learning. At REX, we support Pope Francis and CEAP’s vision for synodality, where every Filipino is moving as one for every learner so that they are empowered, equipped, and championed. Through the Rex Education Hub at CEAP 2022, we hope we have showcased, yet again, that we are here to support every learner in every phase of their journey." - Don Timothy Buhain, chief executive officer of Rex Education.

Under Early Childhood Education (ECE), REX showcased its educational book titles, anchored on socio-emotional, language, and cognitive skills reflected in the six domains of development in the National Early Learning Framework (NELF) by the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Council.

The Rex Education Hub showcased REX’s diverse suite of solutions from early childhood education to professional development.

In response to the need for learners to know more about Philippine history, "My Bayani" is REX’s series of storybooks that introduces Filipino heroes to inspire self-analysis and reflection.

Basic Education continues to be the foundation of many learners’ development journeys. From kindergarten to senior high school, REX worktexts are applicable across disciplines and integrate values and character formation for holistic development. Other learning solutions such as "My Skill Builder," "My Career Journey," and "Laro, Likha, Linang" are supplementary and equally comprehensive materials that further support Filipino learners throughout their learning journey.

Moreover, after the pandemic reinforced digital solutions as non-negotiable in education, REX continued to build on the importance of digital resources. REX offers Schoology, a learning management system, and standardized assessments such as Digital Aces and Harrison Assessments as great tools that help mold learners who are ready for the demands of the 21st century.

REX also further guides students as they step into higher education. Relevant and evidence-based solutions and up-to-date contents based on real-life applications are at the core of REX’s learning materials to prepare students as they choose and build their careers.

As a lifelong learning partner to law students and practitioners, REX not only creates books but also opportunities for mentoring and talks or conversations. A book signing with Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, the author of Code of Ethics of Professional Teachers, was held on-site on October 27, 2022.

Don Timothy Buhain, Rex Education chief executive officer; Atty. Joseph Noel Estrada, author; Atty. Dominador Buhain, Rex Education chairman and president; and Danda Crimelda Buhain, Rex Education chief external affairs officer at the book signing of “Code of Ethics of Professional Teachers 2023 Edition”

As learning continues beyond formal education, REX’s suite of professional learning materials is intended for those who are looking to level up their journey and contribute to nation-building. Aside from various legal materials, REX’s solutions include the Barangay Handbook, designed for public servants to help them advance their knowledge and skills as they carry out their tasks for the benefit of their constituents.

REX also highlighted their partnership across several promotional and educational campaigns with Edukasyon.ph, an organization dedicated to developing EdTech products and services that bridge the gap between teaching and learning in the digital world.

CEAP 2022: A Renewal of Commitment to Edukampyons

REX’s annual participation in the 2022 CEAP National Convention is a renewal of the company’s commitment to championing education and being every learner’s lifelong learning partner.

"As Edukampyons, we always protect, respect, and fulfill the needs of every Filipino learner. We can only do this when we work together with our educators, school heads and administrators, and stakeholders—fellow Edukampyons, who can help us move forward for a progressive education for our nation," said Buhain.

Held on October 25–28, 2022 at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, CEAP 2022 brought together virtual attendees and on-ground delegates to attend concurrent sessions, Eucharistic celebrations, oath-taking of the newly elected officers of the CEAP National Board, and the conferment of the Pro Deo et Patria Awards.

The Colorful Mark of a True Industry Leader

Filipinos remember Sinclair for its infamous advertisement in the 80s and 90s that inspired more people to make home improvements by themselves. The term do-it-yourself or DIY became synonymous with the brand’s catchphrase "Sinclair it!" that established the brand as a household name over the past decades.

Left to Right: Local Business Line Manager - DKSH Phils, Inc and PAPM Secretary General- Mr. Diosdado Cheng President: Fedchem Manufacturing & Distribution Inc./ Vice President: Mayon Industrial Corporation and President: Philippine Association of Paint Manufacturers Inc. : President Charlie Kwa CEO and Founder of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. and Construction Chemical Specialist - Mr. Derrick Tan Chief of Finance of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies Inc. - Ms. Sabrina Tan

Over the past years, Sinclair remains true to its vision of providing premium quality paint products for millions of families and establishments around the world. With the rise of technological advancements and as the market for construction development remains competitive, Sinclair is marking its return to the local market with a broader and more advanced selection of products that provide beauty, durability, affordability, and eco-friendly solution suit for every Pinoy home.

The New Generation of Sinclair

With the reopening of the local market, Sinclair’s timely return will fire up the local competition with its latest premium products that continue the legacy that it started.

Aside from its Traditional or Classic Paint selection that made Sinclair one of the world’s pioneer and trusted brands, Sinclair highlights its innovation with its modern technology paint system, from oil-based to water-based paint and universal colorants.

"We’re delighted to bring back the brand that provided beauty, protection, and comfort to many Filipinos over the past years. With Sinclair’s new line of products – from oil-based to water-based - customers can assure continued premium quality products that will last for a long time while keeping the environment safe and sound,"  - Mr. Derick Tan, Founder, and CEO of Magna Prime Chemical Technologies, Inc., the company that manufactures Sinclair in the Philippines.

Sinclair’s new generation of paint products highlights its waterproofing innovation that made the paint system more economical, easier to apply, and durable. Inspired by the beauty and long-lasting capability of nature, these new generation paints are made suitable for the tropical weather system in the Philippines on top of the climate change we’re experiencing:

Natica Waterproofing Paint – Inspired by the abundant marine shells in the Philippines, this waterproofing paint possesses marine shells’ thick and smooth features that represent durability and protection. Made of modified pure acrylic paint, this latest innovation of Sinclair is used as a water-proofer, primer, sealer, and top coat making it more cost-efficient than the traditional method of waterproofing and painting exterior walls.

Armadillo Polyurethane Paint – inspired by the New World placental mammal, this Armadillo Polyurethane Paint is the first water-based PU Paint in the Philippines takes pride in being a tough and flexible paint just like an armadillo skin. Recommended use for high-rise buildings to avoid frequent repainting or costly paint over because of its durability.

Tamago Cleanable Interior Paint – Sinclair’s take on the sheen of an egg – or Tamago (卵/玉子) in the Japanese language – is made to provide a sleeker yet manageable look for home and establishment’s interiors. Made to provide a clean and cleanable look, its simple yet calming effect is achieved with its balance of flat and glossy while protecting your walls or hiding wall imperfections.

Taro Silicone Paint – This is the first silicone paint in the country. With the wet season taking over almost half of the year in the Philippines, rainwater has become one of the main reasons why paint fails to protect many homes and establishments. With Sinclair’s Taro Silicone Paint, families and establishments can have peace of mind any season due to its impregnating capabilities. Impregnation happens when the paint penetrates through the pores of the substrate thus enhancing its adhesion. It also has high-performance formula creating high-vapor permeability that allows water vapor to escape from the surface, avoiding the build-up of algae and fungus that cause paint to peel off. This paint is suitable for structures located in highlands, beside seashores, and in areas where wall moisture is present.

More Options to Choose From

Aside from the New Generation paints, Sinclair also levels up its Classic Paint selection which ranges from oil-based to water-based paints that provide equal beauty and protection to various surfaces.

Ligno – this waster-based wood primer is ideal for priming, sealing, and filling wooden substrates that help prevent tannins and stains. An eco-friendly product, this paint has low odor, low volatile organic compounds, and is non-toxic.

Rhino – for those metal surfaces, this Sinclair water-based metal primer and top coat provide a two-in-one purpose that saves time and money. This paint has excellent corrosion resistance for indoor and outdoor applications, ideal for new or weathered galvanized metal, steel, and aluminum roofing surfaces, properly prepared or treated ferrous metal, garages and fences, machines and industrial equipment, pipelines, and tanks.

Cascara – for multi-surface paint, the Sinclair Cascara is an eco-friendly, high-gloss, low-odor, water-based paint ideal as a topcoat for wood, metal, and concrete on interior and exterior areas.

Sinclair is also sparking more colors to its Filipino customer through its colorants products that are made to provide good color retention without losing the glossiness of the base paint. Along with its New Generation paints, Sinclair is also launching Chameleon Colorant, which is dubbed as the universal colorant that gives accurate blend and color preference. Chameleon Colorants are specially formulated using special types of chemicals and pigments to ensure that they can blend homogenously either with water-based, solvent-based, or epoxy-based type of paints.

"With more Filipinos enjoying DIY home projects, Sinclair paint products that are highly recommended by professionals are made to spark creativity and freedom, while providing protection, peace of mind, and value to Pinoy’s hard work and money," Mr. Tan concluded.

The return of Sinclair Paint in the Philippine market was officiated during the PHILCONSTUCT 2022. For more details about Sinclair’s products, you may visit https://www.magnaprime.com.ph/product-category/sinclair

Winners crowned at "Your Song of Excellence" Season 2 singing competition

Grand Finalists savoring their winning moment

It was an extremely tough singing competition but after the dusk of the musical battle had settled, the Top 3 winners were announced at the conclusion of "Your Song of Excellence" Season 2 Grand Finals, streamed live on October 31, 2022.

The grand finals of "Your Song of Excellence" Season 2 was one of the most exciting yet most challenging singing competitions. But at the end of each spectacular performance of the grand finalists, only three emerged victorious.

For the "Ballad" (#HeartsAtHome) category, crooner Redemptor Nuestro emerged as the Grand Champion in that category, and bested other grand finalists Rachell Laylo and Easter Joy Parsacala, who wound up as First Runner Up and Second Runner Up, respectively.

Meanwhile, for the "Acoustic" (#FreshVibes) category, it was Izay Acoustic who took home the crown, while Jaworski Sison was declared First Runner Up, followed by Kirby Cruz won Second Runner Up honors.

Finally, Vic Robinson truly rocked it out and displayed true rock spirit, and was eventually crowned grand champion under the "Rock" (#EpicRock) category of "Your Song of Excellence" Season 2. Genriel Diaz took First Runner Up honors, while Anne Ferrer wound up as Second Runner Up.

All grand finalists did their best to impress the judges, where the criteria for judging were 35 percent for Voice Quality, 35 percent for Creativity, 20 percent for Stage Presence, and 10 percent for Online Votes.

Special awards were also handed out to some of the grand finalists. "Acoustic" category grand champion Izay Acoustic was also awarded as "Asus Incredible Performer," while "Rock" category First Runner Up Genriel Diaz won the "Predator Conquering Performance of the Night" award. For the last special award, "Ballad" category First Runner Up Rachell Laylo was adjudged as winner of the "Aromase Aromazin’ Performer" award.

The "Your Song of Excellence" Season 2 grand finals were also made special with the presence of VIP guests and representatives from the competition’s brand partners. Present were Taiwan Trade Center Manila Director Alex Lai, Christine Kuo, Manager, and Janine Tan, Senior Project Manager.

Also gracing the grand finals were James Huang, Country Product Manager of Asus, Sue Ong-Lim, General Manager of Acer, Jesse Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing at PC Express, who also represented Aromase, and Pola Vinoya, Publishing and Marketing Officer, and Aaron Calderon, Marketing Specialist, both from Ivory Music.

It was a night worth remembering, and many are still hoping for another season of "Your Song of Excellence," which is slowly turning out to be one of the most anticipated singing competitions in the country.

"Your Song of Excellence" Season 2 happened because of its magnificent roster of partner brands, such as premier brands Aromase.Ph, Asus PH, Predator Gaming, and major brand partners Acer Philippines, Annie’s Way, FECA PH, Johnson Fitness, LUFTQI, Transcend Philippines, Zyxel, Dacian, and Tatung, with music partner Ivory Music.

Don’t forget to like and follow Taiwan Excellence page:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph
IG: @taiwanexcellence_ph

BALAI PALMERA PURSUES PASSION BY HELPING OTHER BUSINESSES

For the Locals, By the Locals

In 2019, during the height of the restriction caused by the pandemic, Chef Ryan Dimapilis, President of Balai Palmera Restaurant and Pasalubong Center, keeps himself busy by thinking of ways to keep his business afloat as well as his employees employed. "I’m a firm believer that we, Pinoys, are very resilient and at the same time supportive and loyal in many ways. This was strongly proven during the pandemic when many businesses turn online to sell their products. Most of our clients at first were mostly family and friends, which branched out and reached many more people who find our products worth a try," he shared.

A Eureka Moment!

Along with his partners and staff, Balai Palmera concocted their version of Calabarzon’s beloved Buko Pie, which has led to a new triumph for the company. Gathering supplies from local suppliers from Laguna and Quezon, Balai Palmera uses all-fresh and no-preservative Buko Pie that instantly gained patrons in Silang and nearby municipalities in Cavite. As soon as restrictions were eased out and news spread out, Balai Palmera’s kitchen became so busy with hundreds of orders of this Buko Pie day after day.

"As much as we want to concentrate on this success, as a businessman, I know that other smaller businesses need help to bounce back from the pandemic. So, as soon as we were able to reopen some of our other businesses, we started reaching out to local manufacturers to promote and even sell their products in our Pasalubong Centers," he added.

One Pasalubong Center, Balai Palmera recently expanded its footprint by opening one more Pasalubong Center in Silang providing more choices and convenience to its customers. This extensive and expansive center carries other local brands that made their way to the palette of domestic and international guests of the region.

One-Stop Pinoy Favorite Shop

Balai Palmera takes pride in its merchandise for only being 100% Pinoy-made but also being DTI-approved.

"This goes to show how dedicated we are to making our customers’ visit to our Pasalubong Centers an experience they would love to do again and again. By having DTI-approved products in shops, we are bringing the best of the region within their arms reach," Dimapilis happily shared.

Aside from Buko Pie, Balai Palmera guests can also enjoy locally produced Pedro’s Kangkong Chips, J. Fernandez’s Chichapop, Nikimat’s Tahong Chips, Binan’s Okoy, Pastillas De Leche, Banana Chips, Mushroom Cracklings, Calamansito, Basimatsi, Coco Jam, Jacobina, Biscocho, Piaya Ube, and R&l Chicharon.

From healthy snacks to filling and heartwarming pastries and bread, one can also find comfort and enjoyment in Balai Palmera’s version of Chocolate Almond Babka, Raisin Bread as well as Ensyamada which use local ingredients from local manufacturers.

"While we continue to pray for the day to come where we are all safe and free to move around again, we will keep working with various industry leaders to create a collaborative effort that transcends Pinoy pride," he concluded.

Balai Palmera Restaurant and Pasalubong Center have two branches, the first at Tagaytay-Sta. Road Brgy. Pasong Langka, Silang, Cavite, and second at Aguinaldo Highway, Bypass Road, San Vicente 2, Silang, Cavite.

For more information, updates, and other news, you may follow them on their official Facebook and Instagram accounts.