Grand opening of WORLDBEX 2024

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The anticipation peaks as the grand opening of WORLDBEX 2024 commences with a flourish of excitement and anticipation. Distinguished guests and industry leaders from around the world gather to witness the unveiling of the premier event in the building and design industries.

Amidst the buzzing atmosphere, esteemed VIPs grace the occasion with their presence, adding to the prestige and allure of the event. Among the notable guests in attendance are: Hon.Senator Bong Revilla Jr. Represented by Congresswoman Lani Mercado, Hon. Senator Mark A. Villar, Hon Assistant Secretary Atty. Agaton Teodoro O. Uvero, Hon. Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Hon. Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, Mr. Slater Young, Ms. Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, Delegates from the Diplomatic Corps, PIID Officers, Fellows and Members, Members of Diplomatic Corps, President of Association Partners, and the Representative from Architecture Firms and The World of Architecture.

As the ribbon is ceremoniously cut, signaling the official commencement of Worldbex 2024, the air is filled with excitement for the remarkable exhibition displays and world-class innovations that await within. From immersive booths to interactive showcases, attendees are treated to glimpse our sustainable future.

Throughout Worldbex 2024, attendees will have the opportunity to explore myriad exhibits, engage in thought-provoking seminars, and network with industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. With a focus on the theme "Drawn to Ascendancy," this year's event promises to inspire and elevate the industry to new heights. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing boundaries, Worldbex continues to be a catalyst for growth and development in the industry.

WORLDBEX 2024 is organized by Worldbex Services International, the leading event organizer in the country. 

#WORLDBEX2024

#DrawnToAscendancy

PHLPost bags 2 awards

Wazzup Pilipinas!





PEACE AWARD. PHLPost Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos (second from left) receives the Partner in Empowerment, Advocacy and Commitment to Excellence (Peace) trophy from Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña (right) during the foundation's 45th anniversary.

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has been recognized as Partner in Empowerment, Advocacy, and Commitment to Excellence or PEACE during the Metrobank Foundation Incorporated's (MBFI) 45th Anniversary Celebration in Taguig City.

Postmaster General Luis Carlos accepted the prestigious award in recognition of PHLPost's collaborative efforts with MBFI toward nation-building.

“We are grateful for this award which is a confirmation of PHLPost’s role in improving the quality of life of Filipinos, and its commitment to help uplift the welfare of teachers and learners in the public school system”, Postmaster General Luis Carlos said.

The MBFI bestows the Peace recognition upon institutions from the academe, business sector, non-government and socio-civic organizations, national government agencies, media, and diplomatic missions.

Likewise, PHLPost is the recipient of the award given by the Department of Education (DepEd) for playing a crucial role in advancing quality education and continuously supporting DepEd’s MATATAG Agenda.

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) has been a partner of the Department of Education (DepEd) and annually sponsors the Commemorative Stamps for the celebration of the National Teachers’ Month (NTM) in partnership with Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI).

Collaborations such as this will contribute towards the realization of our goal which is to develop value added service from traditional to allied services; to be the primary logistics service provider for our SMEs and the agricultural sector; expand international relations and services to deal with cross-border ecommerce, international mail forwarding and international money transfers; and to partner with stakeholders for e-commerce business”, PMG Carlos said.

PHLPost is now coordinating with Local Government Units (LGU’s) in establishing Barangay Postal Stations nationwide for more efficient delivery, reaching out even to far-flung areas of the country; the implementation of the new seven (7) digit alphanumeric new Zip Code PH from the old four (4) digit that will standardize addressing system in the country; and, the “Kartero APP” or K-APP, a Real Time Visibility system to modernize the delivery and efficiency of its mail operations” Carlos added.

Global sensation SHEIN drives fashion passion at first Pop-Up Store of 2024 in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




SHEIN, the global online fashion and lifestyle retailer, launched their fourth pop-up store in the Philippines -- the second one where Filipino SHEINistas can buy products in-person -- on Wednesday, March 13, at the Festival Mall in Alabang. Besides a wide array of quality but highly affordable women's and men's clothing, shoes, accessories and other lifestyle products, shoppers were able to avail of amazing discounts, shopping deals and freebies.

The SHEIN Style Avenue Pop-Up Store located at the Upper Ground Level Activity Area, was deluged with SHEIN fans and followers of SHEIN Brand Ambassador Belle Mariano and dozens of dazzling content creators. The Pop-Up Store will run from March 13 to 17, 2024.

The pop-up will be held at Festival Mall in Alabang between March 13 to 17.

Shoes, men’s, and women’s clothing from party wear to work wear, casual wear and sportswear, accessories, homeware, beauty products. Think of anything that makes shopping fun and it’s there. If only for a week.

SHEIN, the global online fashion and lifestyle retailer that has taken online shopping by storm, has opened its fourth pop-up store in the Philippines at the Festival Mall in Alabang, giving its fans a chance to try and buy products in-person.

From March 13 to 17, Filipinos may enjoy the curated collections by SHEIN at the Upper Ground Level Activity Center of the Mall. This is the second time where customers can make in-person purchases at a SHEIN pop-up in the Philippines.

The shopping experience at the week-long store features over 1,000 on-trend pieces for women, men and kids that can be bought on the spot, without waiting for home delivery.

Customers will enjoy up to 90% off discounts and deals including “shop more, save more”: (buy 2 items, get extra 20% off; buy 3 or more, get 30% off), fashion styling advice handed out by SHEIN, and freebies up for grabs.

“Our Filipino customers are in search of affordable and trendy clothing that encourages self-expression,” said a SHEIN spokesperson. “The Philippines is no doubt a key market that we are looking to develop, and we are committed to offering the product variety that Filipino customers demand. The team is working very hard to bring more collaborations and in-person experiences to the Philippines in 2024.”

The SHEIN spokesperson revealed that SHEIN’s women’s wear category with its varied designs, sizing, and good quality have been very well-received by the Philippines market. “This combination has established SHEIN as a go-to destination for Filipino customers looking for modern, trendy and timeless pieces to enhance their wardrobe.”

Beyond fashion, shoppers also browse the online shopping app for home and lifestyle products, gadgets and equipment, much like they would do in a physical department store.

Popular young talent and actress Belle Mariano was re-signed as SHEIN Brand Ambassador for the second year at the opening of the pop-up store.

Belle's popularity among Filipinos is a testament to her versatile talent and her ability to connect with the new generation and our audience. “We recognize the significance of aligning with influencers who authentically represent the diverse and evolving tastes of our audience. Belle's charismatic presence in the entertainment industry and her keen sense of style make her a perfect fit for our brand,” according to SHEIN.



About SHEIN

SHEIN is a global online fashion and lifestyle retailer, offering SHEIN branded apparel and products from a global network of vendors, all at affordable prices. Headquartered in Singapore, SHEIN remains committed to making the beauty of fashion accessible to all, promoting its industry-leading, on-demand production methodology for a smarter, future-ready industry. To learn more about SHEIN, visit www.sheingroup.com.

Intersectionality of Chemicals, Environment, and Gender Rights, discussed in Women’s Day Webinar

Wazzup Pilipinas!?




Environmental group BAN Toxics held a webinar today as the world celebrates International Women’s Day. Speakers from the academe, science, and development work shared their insights on the intersectionality of environment, women and gender rights.

“We seem to have come a long way in terms of gender mainstreaming as the Philippines ranked 16th place in the Global Gender Gap Index in 2021, claiming the highest in Asia,” according to UP Professor Nancy Parreño from the Department of Social Work at UP Diliman. The Gender Gap Index measures gender equality based on the relative gaps between women and men across areas of health, education, economy, and politics.

“Yet, a lot needs to be done to achieve substantive equality or equality in outcomes, which recognizes that the situation of women and men differs according to country, age, class, ethnic or social origin, and other factors that should be accounted for. Filipino women have higher educational attainment than men but have lower labor force participation rates, are in elementary occupations as Overseas Filipino Workers, have less access to resources, are in unpaid productive work, and are less represented in public leadership positions,” Parreño elaborated.

BAN Toxics emphasizes policy and community engagement for its chemical and waste management advocacy, including initiatives on mercury-added skin lightening products, women in small-scale gold mining, with a focus on marginalized sectors including women and children.

The webinar addressed the proliferation of cosmetic products laced with harmful chemicals, which is one of the current focuses of BAN Toxics.

“We have identified the intentional use of harmful fluorinated ingredients in cosmetics in South Korea. Our study showed that harmful fluorinated chemicals have significantly varied concentrations in cosmetics, with sunscreens having the highest concentration,” Dr. Inja Choi from the Wonjin Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health in South Korea discussed.

Dr. Inja Choi explained that fluorinated ingredients, such as per/poly fluorinated acrylate polymers or PFAS, which are known to be harmful, are used in lipstick, sunscreen, and other cosmetic products as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and surfactants, among others.

“Women's exposure to these harmful chemicals is heightened due to the direct application of cosmetics products to the skin and the use of multiple products at the same time,” Dr. Inja Choi warned.

BAN Toxics, for its part, has been championing gender mainstreaming in its work. “Gender mainstreaming means integrating a gender equality perspective at all stages and levels of programs and projects. The group’s pioneering work in artisanal small-scale gold mining to reduce the use of mercury among women and men miners has been consistent with this thrust. The current campaign to reduce the prolific use of mercury-added skin lightening products is another important advocacy that exemplifies how gender mainstreaming takes into account the differences in the situation of women and men,” Edel Garingan from BAN Toxics said in the webinar.

Responding to a question from participants, Parreño added that “Environmental issues often disproportionately impact women and it is important to undertake gender analysis and gender impact assessments as crucial tools for gender mainstreaming.”

The webinar was attended by representatives from government agencies, schools, and the public. BAN Toxics’ board members, including Prof. Donna Paz Reyes from Miriam College Department of Environment, graced the activity with her insights as well.



(Artwork courtesy by Edel Garingan)

Public warned on scam messages online using PHLPost name

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

 

The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) warned the public not to engage or click the link on messages sent by scammers online using the name and logo of PHLPost.

PHLPost will not send any messages via text/email or online related to a mail or parcel to be received, asking to confirm their address and banking details on a link provided and that the package will be returned within 24 hours. 

Also, there is a scammer who pretends to be an online lending company threatening the recipient with a fake demand letter or messages using PHLPost in an effort to scare people into responding to a link sent. 

PHLPost or any of its personnel will not in any way and certainly won’t send threats or scare anyone in messages/text/ or email.

The link sent by scammers on messages may acquire sensitive data such as personal and financial information by pretending to be a legitimate company or individual via SMS, online messages, calls, among others. 

The public must not respond, click on links or call any numbers.

Meanwhile, the public is advised not to entertain fraudulent transactions online or in the Facebook Marketplace  involving person/s Selling Fake Postal IDs.

These fake Postal IDs cannot be used in any financial transactions or other identification documents.

At present, the issuance of legitimate Postal ID in Post Offices nationwide is still suspended. 

Lycean filmmakers feted in LPU’s 72nd Foundation Anniversary

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Six groups of student filmmakers from Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila won in the short film and public service announcement (PSA) video categories of Lycinema 2024. The event kicked off LPU’s 72nd Foundation Anniversary celebration at the JPL Hall of Freedom this March.

“Garapon,” a Mithi Films production directed by Luis Musni and written by Kimberly Claire Pablo and Ivanah Araque, topped the short film category. “Garapon” is an inspiring drama about two orphan brothers, Jhanrey (Ace Trencio) and Kiko (Rham Palomares), who are trying to make ends meet with what little they have. Providing support to Trencio and Palomares are Antoinette Chua, Drei Manalo, Jerson Santos, Xyreal Sevilla, and Aaron Evangelista. It previously competed in the 8th Sorok Short Film Festival at Philippine Women’s University last January.

“We’re incredibly grateful to have won first place in the prestigious Lycinema competition at Lyceum of the Philippines University and to have participated in the esteemed 8th Sorok Short Film Festival. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our patrons for their unwavering trust in Mithi Films,” producer Jamir Cortez said.

Cortez, Musni, Pablo, and Araque also got ample assistance from co-directors Angelica Sengson and Adriel Mandia, director of photography Genesis Lim, camera operator Dave Gutierrez, set designer Christine Andres, sound designer Nicole Codorniz, and film editor Ferlauren Umagtang.

“Sana Bukas, Pwede Pa,” a Page 8 Studios short film directed by Krizia Enage and Arbby Manahan, placed second. The film, which also represented LPU Manila in the 8th SSFF together with “Garapon,” had Vanessa Serafica and Yeda Faulve as production managers, Kyle Arceo as cinematographer, Mishael Concepcion as camera operator, Tyra Rapin as editor, and Dave Balanlay as writer, assistant director and set designer.

In “Sana Bukas, Pwede Pa,” Inggo (Tonny Abad) must sacrifice something in exchange for the truth – even if it is the very thing he calls home. Loumen Doza and Boni Gabriel Ilagan provide support as Inggo's mother Lita and their neighbor Miguel, respectively.

“Pintura,” directed and produced by Michelle Graciela, won third prize. The film, which stars Rowell Laroco and Chariz Valerie, also had Kyla Lazaro as writer and art director, Graciela as cinematographer, Balanlay as assistant director, and Umagtang as editor and sound designer.

Meanwhile, “Maghapong Nakayuko” by Wacky Ramirez, Marikei Caranto, Harvy Cosmiano, Ken Cardona, and Yna Sansan, led the PSA video category winners.

“Sementong Plastik,” created by Lyka Rojo, Romilo Josh Difuntorum, Alexandra Jane Pancho, James Matthew Bueno, and Umagtang, got second prize while “Siozmaiolo,” directed by Cortez, placed third.

Twelve other short films and 49 more PSA videos produced by LPU Multimedia Arts students as outputs in their Fundamentals of Film and Video Production classes under special lecturer Seymour Sanchez, competed and were screened during the showcase of MMA projects.

Four of the PSA videos were among the 24 semifinalists in the Rotary PSA Festival last year, with “Train” by Rapin winning third place. Four of the short films also vied for individual honors at the SSFF, Manila Student Film Festival at International School Manila, and CineBedista.

“Strengthening the film culture in a school not only entails getting students to shoot their films but also developing an audience to watch them,” Sanchez stressed.

Production Head Jaypee Zuñiga of Knowledge Channel Foundation, Operations Manager Monica Lou Medina of Eyecandy Model Management Inc., and production manager Kristin Jor of Red Room Media Productions comprised the board of judges for Lycinema 2024.

As part of the program, Dentsu Creative Philippines Executive Director Biboy Royong and account manager Pat Sarmiento talked about the creative process of designing advocacy ads.

Royong is known for his viral campaign “Dead Whale” in 2017. He has been granted awards from the Cannes Grand Prix (2013), Grand Clio (2013), Ad Stars Grand Prix (2013), New York Fest Grand Prix (2012), and D&AD Yellow Pencil (2014). He has recently been inducted as a member of the country's 4A Hall of Fame Awards.

In addition, “GomBurZa” film producer and Jesuit Communications Foundation Philippines Creative Director Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin discussed the creative process and production of the historical film in the "Muling Pagbabahagi ng Kasaysayan" talk.

LPU College of Arts and Sciences Dean Marilyn Ngales, Broadcasting, Communication, Journalism, and Multimedia Arts program chair Joanna Rojo, Psychology professor and officer-in-charge head of Psychology and Philosophy Mylah Sison, former BCJMMA head Rebecca Nieto-Litan, and faculty members Mira Ticlao and Jerick Sanchez, also graced Lycinema 2024.

For the second time, Razel Olifernes and Mikee Ricafort hosted the program. The Brand Management and Activation class and the Lyceum Visuals and Motions Guild (LVMG) co-organized the event.

Your European Summer Bucket List for This Year

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

With its abundance of experiences just waiting to be discovered, Europe beckons as summer's warmth draws near and the days lengthen. From the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean to the northernmost regions of Scandinavia, the continent offers a diverse tapestry of adventures, cultures, and landscapes. 

Europe promises to fulfill your summertime dreams, whether you're an adrenaline junkie, history buff, food connoisseur, or just looking to unwind. So, gather your sunscreen and prepare for an amazing journey through our summer bucket list for Europe, which is filled with events that will make this year one to remember. 

Exploring Historical Landmarks

Every cobblestone street, historic ruin, and imposing castle that dot Europe's landscape are testaments to its rich past. You can easily explore Europe by train which will make your trip budget friendly. Admire the architectural marvels of the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Colosseum as you meander through the maze-like streets of Rome. Explore the Croatian city of Dubrovnik's fortified walls or get lost in the Old Town of Prague, which has a medieval charm. 

Europe's historical sites, which range from the opulence of Versailles to the eerie charm of Stonehenge, provide an enthralling voyage through time and culture.

Immersing in Nature's Beauty

Take a break from the bustle of the city and explore the magnificent natural settings of Europe. 

Set out on an energizing hike through the Swiss Alps, where serene valleys beckon and snow-capped peaks pierce the blue sky. Experience the untamed splendor of Norway's fjords, where emerald waters sculpt through sheer cliff faces and tumbling waterfalls produce a visual and auditory symphony. As an alternative, discover the wild wilderness of the Scottish Highlands or enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine on the picturesque beaches of the Greek Islands. Europe's natural beauty is as varied as it is breathtaking, ranging from the Tuscany region's undulating hills to the Amalfi Coast's striking coastlines.

Adventuring in the Great Outdoors

Europe provides an endless supply of exhilarating experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, just waiting to be discovered. Put on your hiking boots and set out on a multi-day journey through France, Italy, and Switzerland on the Tour du Mont Blanc, passing through alpine meadows and towering peaks. Experience the thrilling rafting Tara adventure that will turn into something absolutely memorable, or venture out on a kayaking expedition through the waters of Norway's fjords. For a bird's-eye perspective, try paragliding over the French Riviera's azure waters or hot-air ballooning above Cappadocia's fairy chimneys.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

Enjoying the delectable cuisine of Europe, which reflects the diversity of its cultures and landscapes, is a must-do experience for any traveler. Start your culinary adventure in France, where you can indulge in hearty cassoulet in the quaint countryside of Provence or enjoy buttery croissants and delicate macarons in the city's quaint cafes. Take a trip south to Italy and treat your taste buds to fresh seafood from the Amalfi Coast, handmade pasta from Rome's alleyways, and creamy gelato from Florence. Alternatively, travel east to Greece to experience the lively tastes of baklava, souvlaki, and moussaka while taking in the atmosphere of the Mediterranean. You will learn about the diverse range of flavors and customs that characterize European cuisine with every dish.

Relaxing and Unwinding

After exploring and experiencing the day's events, spend some time unwinding and revitalizing in Europe's opulent spas and peaceful retreats. Relax in Budapest's thermal baths, where the healing waters have been relieving tired tourists for centuries, or treat yourself to a revitalizing massage in Tuscany's picturesque countryside. Savor a leisurely picnic in the picturesque gardens of Versailles or take a wine-tasting tour among Bordeaux's vineyards. As an alternative, enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar with a view of Barcelona's glittering skyline or unwind on the French Riviera's sun-drenched beaches.

Immersing in Cultural Experiences

With its top-notch museums and exciting festivals, Europe has a thriving cultural scene that draws tourists from all over the world. Marvel at the works of art at Florence's Uffizi Gallery or take a step back in time at Athens' Acropolis Museum. Explore Prague's cobblestone streets during the city's yearly Christmas markets, or party all night long at Venice's Carnival celebrations. Wander through Berlin's colorful neighborhoods, where street art is everywhere, or get lost in Dublin's pubs' rich literary history. Europe offers a plethora of cultural events and celebrations throughout the year, making it easy to fully immerse oneself in the region's rich legacy of music, art, and culture.

Europe offers a multitude of experiences to make your summer one to remember, from historical landmarks to outdoor adventures. The continent beckons with its unending charm and allure,whether you're going on a family holiday, a solo adventure, or a romantic retreat. Thus, gatheryour belongings, welcome the spirit of exploration, and allow Europe's summertime to enchantyou while you cross off all the activities on your European summer bucket list and make lifelongmemories.