Global girl group KATSEYE meets Filipino fans

September 20, 2024 | 12:07 am

Homecoming for their Pinoy leader Sophia

THE SIX-MEMBER global pop group KATSEYE arrived in a cute assemblage of black and denim streetwear for their first engagement just a few hours after arriving in Manila on Sept. 17.

It was the group’s very first time in Manila — except for Sophia Laforteza, the leader, who was born and raised here. Known for its diverse lineup, KATSEYE’s other members are Lara Rajagopalan, Jeong Yoonchae, Daniela Avanzini, Manon Bannerman, and Megan Meiyok Skiendiel.

They flew in for the KATSEYE: Touchdown in Manila Official Fan Showcase, held at Ayala Malls Market! Market! in Taguig. The appearance comes a month following the release of their debut EP, SIS (Soft Is Strong).

BLEND OF CULTURES
KATSEYE was formed using K-Pop artist development methodologies, under South Korean entertainment company HYBE and American record label Geffen. All members took part in the talent competition survival show The Debut: Dream Academy, released in August 2023, prevailing over 20 candidates who were selected out of 120,000 submissions worldwide.

Their debut EP includes hits like “Debut” and “Touch,” which sparked viral dance trends globally and in the Philippines.

As the first-ever global girl group, KATSEYE came out with SIS (Soft Is Strong) to convey the strength of their sisterhood despite coming from a wide variety of backgrounds, according to Ms. Laforteza.

“I think one of the biggest things that I learned is that you have to stay open-minded as things come your way and make you grow and learn,” she said at a press conference at the Conrad Manila in Pasay City. “It allowed us to work with each other and reach the goal of connecting with the world.”

She added that “mutual respect and care” among the members made her job as a leader a lot easier than she anticipated.

Ms. Skiendiel, for her part, explained that her favorite song on the EP, “My Way,” reflects the vulnerability they feel with each other. “It feels so nice to be able to share that with others. It’s amazing,” she said.

For Ms. Avanzini, KATSEYE being a global group means they have to prepare to reach out across markets.

“We always learn key words. In Korea, Yoonchae taught us to say gamsahamnida (thank you) and other simple phrases, while Sophia taught me to say salamat,” she said.

SUPPORT SYSTEM
The six young women, whose ages range from 16 to 22, became popular after their training and time at the competition reality show was immortalized in the docuseries Pop Star Academy: KATSEYE, which is now streaming on Netflix.

Carla Guevara-Laforteza, the Filipino musical theater performer and mother of Sophia, said that the fame, and sometimes notoriety, with being such public figures “all come with the job,” but that a support system is vital.

“The six of us KATSEYE mamas are so proud of our daughters. We made a pact to always be there for them, and that whichever country they go to, there should at least be one mom that comes along,” she told BusinessWorld.

Despite her own accomplishments in the theater world, she said that her daughter’s success is entirely her own. “While she did take singing lessons and dance classes, one day she just told us ‘I’m going to be in a global girl group; I’m going to be a star’ and I said go for it.”

It is the younger Ms. Laforteza’s first time in the Philippines in three years, since the training and work with KATSEYE is all based in Los Angeles.

For her homecoming, Ms. Guevara-Laforteza said that they prepared a feast for the group, with her daughter’s favorites like sinigang and lechon.

“Sophia is the best leader ever. She takes care of us, makes sure that we’re doing okay, and whenever we’re upset or frustrated, we always go to her,” said Ms. Rajagopalan at the press conference. She added that it was exciting for the group to “finally see where Sophia is from.”

When asked about KATSEYE’s goals for the next five years, the girls erupted in excitement. “One common goal for all of us would be headlining Coachella,” Ms. Bannerman said. “Probably perform at a stadium here in the Philippines, since something we’d love to do is perform in each of our countries.”

KATSEYE performed to a full mall at Ayala Malls Market! Market! on Sept. 18, right after they sang their hit song “Touch” on Wish 107.5’s Wish Bus and appeared on the popular variety noontime show It’s Showtime!. — Brontë H. Lacsamana

US court OKs PLDT’s $3-M settlement with investors

September 20, 2024 | 12:06 am

PLDT_headquarters_sign_Makati_Avenue,_Makati — WIKIMEDIA COMMONS/PATRICKROQUE01

By Ashley Erika O. Jose, Reporter

THE US District Court for the Central District of California has granted final approval to PLDT Inc.’s settlement of a securities class-action lawsuit.

The case, which involved allegations against PLDT and certain current and former directors and officers regarding false and misleading statements about the company’s capital expenditures and internal controls, has been settled for $3 million, the Pangilinan-led telecommunications company said in a disclosure on Thursday.

The court’s approval, issued on Sept. 17, concludes the litigation that began in 2023.

The settlement, which “contains no admission of liability, fault, or wrongdoing by any defendant,” was initially agreed upon in February.

The court will retain jurisdiction over the implementation of the settlement and the distribution of the settlement fund, according to PLDT.

For market watchers, the settlement of the class-action suit is a significant legal development for PLDT.

“The US district court’s approval of the settlement puts to rest the class action and finally removes any remaining investor concerns about the litigation,” Chinabank Capital Corp. Managing Director Juan Paolo E. Colet said in a Viber message.

Globalinks Securities and Stocks, Inc. Head of Sales Trading Toby Allan C. Arce said PLDT’s emphasis that the settlement means no admission of liability mitigated any reputational damage to the company.

To recall, in 2022, the company discovered a P48-billion discrepancy, which accounted for about 12.7% of its P379-billion capital expenditure over the past four years since 2019.

Last year, PLDT confirmed that a US shareholder filed a securities class-action lawsuit against the company, alleging violations of Federal Securities Laws.

The case cited the company’s disclosures indicating a budget overrun of P48 billion during the period.

Further, Chinabank Capital’s Mr. Colet said the small size of the settlement amount will hardly impact PLDT’s financial performance.

“What is important is for the company to continue improving and strengthening its governance and internal controls to avoid investor litigation in the future,” Mr. Colet said.

The resolution could also provide a sense of “certainty” for investors which might help improve investors’ confidence, Globalinks Securities’ Mr. Arce said.

“For investors, the fact that the legal issue has been settled without an admission of fault could be seen positively. This development might reduce uncertainty and litigation risks that could have lingered, thus potentially boosting investor appetite in the short term,” Mr. Arce said.

At the stock exchange on Thursday, shares in the company closed unchanged at P1,438 apiece.

Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls.

Stuff to Do (09/20/24)

September 20, 2024 | 12:06 am

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SB19 Josh Cullen puts up photo exhibit

ARANETA CITY is hosting a special photo exhibit featuring the debut of SB19 Josh Cullen’s first ever solo album, Lost & Found. The exhibit showcases the artist’s “emotional journey in finding his true self,” seen through a display of artworks from his album. The event will also feature a chance to connect with SB19 fans and Josh Cullen supporters. The exhibit is ongoing until Sept. 20, 9 p.m., at the Quantum Skyview, Upper Ground B of Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City, Quezon City.

Tina Turner tribute comes to Newport World Resorts

NEWPORT WORLD RESORTS is paying homage to the “Queen of Rock n’ Roll” with the Rolling on the River tribute concert on Sept. 20 and 21 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. The energetic production will feature Ms. Turner’s string of famous hits from the 1960s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, with Sandy Redd taking on the persona of the iconic singer. Tickets are available via TicketWorld, SMTickets, or the Newport World Resorts website.

Garmin hosts the Fenix 8 Challenge

TO LAUNCH its latest line of next-gen premium multisport GPS smartwatches, Garmin is inviting the public to take part in the Fenix 8 Challenge, featuring Guinness World Record Holders Kaizen Dela Serna, Mark Rodelas, Precious Cabuya, and Century Tuna Superbods 2024 Grand Winners Jether Palomo and Justine Felizarta. Participants will compete in a series of challenging obstacles to win a Fenix 8 watch and additional prizes. It will be held on Sept. 21, with registration starting at 6:30 a.m., at the Bridgetowne Obstacle Park in Bridgetown, Pasig City.

CCP’s Luminaries and Legacies exhibit at Circuit

THE Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is presenting Luminaries and Legacies: CCP Gawad Para sa Sining 2024 & Other CCP Institutional Awards, a week-long exhibition at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati. Divided into two sections, it highlights many of its awardees, who are Filipino artists and cultural workers with significant contributions in their fields. These include Jose Iñigo Homer “Joey” Ayala, Generoso “Gener” Caringal, Mike de Leon, Marilyn Gamboa, Gino Gonzales, Pete Lacaba, Jr., the Loboc Children’s Choir, Julie Lluch, Mario O’Hara, and Lea Salonga. There are also posthumous tributes to Sen. Edgardo J. Angara, and former CCP Trustee Zenaida “Nedy” R. Tantoco. The exhibition is currently on view at the Jaime Zobel, Sr. Hall, 5^th floor of the Samsung Performing Arts Theater at Circuit Makati, until Sept. 27.

Youth-oriented drama series MAKA on GMA

GMA Public Affairs is about to premiere MAKA, a youth-oriented series that crosses generational boundaries. Premiering on Sept. 21, the show features Zephanie, Ashley Sarmiento, and Marco Masa, along with teen talents Olive May, John Clifford, Dylan Menor, Chanty Videla from the K-Pop group Lapillus, Sean Lucas, and May Ann Basa. It explores the challenges Gen Z faces today, while also highlighting their interactions with other generations, through a cast of high school students enrolled in the Arts & Performance section of the public school Douglas MacArthur High School for the Art. Their teacher, Sir V, is played by veteran actor Romnick Sarmenta. Directed by Rod Marmol, MAKA premieres on Sept. 21, 4:45 p.m., on GMA and via the Kapuso Stream.

NERIAH release new synth-pop single

NERIAH has released a synth-pop single, “Don’t Let Go,” which captures the exhilaration and uncertainty of falling in love. It is a step away from her earlier heartbreak ballads and offers uplifting and empowering music that reflects the happiest time of her life. “Don’t Let Go” is out now on all digital music streaming platforms.

Julius Babao Unplugged comes to TV5

JULIUS BABAO UNPLUGGED, which will be making its television debut on TV5 on Sept. 22, offers its take on “where are they now”-type interviews. It will air every Sunday at 4 p.m. Adapted from Mr. Babao’s popular YouTube series, the show brings real-life stories of current and past celebrities and public figures into focus, offering viewers an unfiltered glimpse into the lives of the people they admire. The TV series will be set apart from its YouTube content by providing an exclusive, deeper look into moments of personal growth, triumphs, and challenges. Stories include Gardo Versoza after his heart attack, Dindo Arroyo’s miraculous recovery from pancreatic cancer, and the controversial stories of AJ Raval, Mercedes Cabral, Queenay, and many more. Julius Babao Unplugged premieres on Sept. 22, with new episodes airing every Sunday at 4 p.m. on TV5.

Rockwell Atletica pop-up offers promos

INVITING Filipinos to stay fit for the holidays is Rockwell Atletica, a one-stop shop for fitness needs and gym equipment. Its Technogym equipment, ideal for both bodybuilders and casual gym-goers, will soon be available with a year-end promo. There is an ongoing Pop-Up at Power Plant Mall’s R1 Level, Lifestyle Hallway, which runs until Sept. 22. The Rockwell Atletica store is located on the second floor of the Power Plant Mall in Makati.

Courting the global spotlight

September 20, 2024 | 12:06 am

Just as no man is an island unto himself, no business can thrive without acknowledging the larger ecosystem it engages in. In this way, an economy’s true vitality is not just measured by its year-on-year growth or trade balance, but also in how it appeals to the world at large.

So, when the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) urged global brands to lease their franchises in the Philippines during the Franchise Asia Philippines 2023-International Franchise Expo late last year, they were not simply inviting investment — they were introducing the Philippines as a dynamic marketplace primed for growth.

Attracting global players represents a vote of confidence in the country’s economic stability, consumer potential, and long-term growth trajectory. Meanwhile, as foreign franchises pour in, they bring expertise, innovation, and global standards, effectively creating a positive feedback loop that can have a multiplier effect on a country’s development. Global brands can boost employment, spur local competition, and expand consumer choice, all while creating a signal to other nations that the particular country has the necessary factors for growth and opportunity.

“We are very excited with these because the future is Asia, and the Philippines will be the launchpad for what the Asian economy will be able to seize for the global market,” PFA Chair Sherill Quintana had said during the event, which also coincided with the meetings of the World Franchise Council (WFC) and the Asia Pacific Franchise Confederation (APFC).

Ms. Quintana’s statements were backed by projections saying that the Philippine franchise industry will have a vibrant revenue growth rate of 10% to 13% over the next five years. According to the PFA, total revenues of the Philippine franchise industry had already hit P27 billion, which exceeded the pre-pandemic level of P25 billion.

20% of the participants of the International Franchise Expo are international brands, from countries such as Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and the United States, and more than 50,000 exhibitors attending.

Franchise Asia Philippines 2023 overall Co-Chair Richard Sanz noted that it was the first time for a franchise event to occupy the entire SMX Convention Center in Pasay City to showcase 1,000 local and global franchise brands from 26 countries.

“This highlights the continued interest among Filipinos in franchising as an investment option,” he added.

Since then, Mr. Sanz’s statement has been proven true. Not long after the expo, Korea’s premium Korean egg sandwich brand, EGGDROP, by Golden Hind Co., Ltd., announced the opening of debut store in the Philippines, the brand’s second global store following the one in Bangkok, Thailand.

The debut is part of a multi-franchise agreement to open five stores in the Philippines. EGGDROP will launch two stores in the Philippines in the first half of 2024, followed by three additional stores in the second half of the year in key locations.

Another brand that has made its debut in the country is Duck Donuts, the beloved North Carolina-based donut franchise renowned for its warm, made-to-order donuts. The first Philippine store, located in Angono St., Makati City (near Makati City Hall), is even a standout for the brand, as it was designed to be the biggest among its over 160 locations in 12 countries.

French-Japanese fashion label Maison Kitsuné also landed in Philippine shores with its first boutique store at Shangri-La Plaza in Manila that merges both French and Japanese design influences. The brand is best known for showcasing a variety of ready-to-wear clothing, bags, accessories, and shoes.

Even the French luxury brand Moreau Paris have opened its doors in Manila. Moreau Paris has set up its first shop in the Philippines at 8Rockwell, offering its signature leather goods hand-crafted with the finest techniques.

Meanwhile, leading Southeast Asian womenswear brand, Love, Bonito, also announced the opening of its first brick-and-mortar store in the Philippines. Launching this year at Greenbelt 3, Makati City, the inaugural store will feature the brand’s newly unveiled identity and revamped assortment strategy following its recent rebranding.

“The Philippines remains one of our fastest growing markets, with a constant double-digit year-on-year growth since 2019,” said Dione Song, chief executive officer of Love, Bonito. “Unlike traditional retailers, Love, Bonito started as a digitally-native brand, but over the years, we have grown to understand the importance of being physically present where our community is. The pop-ups and showrooms we’ve done locally gave us much insight into our local customer base as well as the mall culture.”

As the country continues to grow, the more it will become appealing to global brands. It reflects a continuing shift in how the country is positioning itself on the global stage. Each new franchise is a boost to the message that the Philippines is a land of opportunity, and that it is open for business. — Bjorn Biel M. Beltran

DigiPlus, BingoPlus Foundation champion inclusion, empower PWDs with PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation

September 20, 2024 | 12:05 am

PLUS-Center-OL — Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus Vice-President for Investor Relations, and BingoPlus Foundation COO leads the groundbreaking of the PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation.

BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of leading digital entertainment company, DigiPlus Interactive, has laid ground to the soon-to-rise PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation, together with the Philippine Accessible Disability Services, Inc. (PADS). The P2-million facility marks a significant step towards empowering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to thrive and pursue opportunities in sports, health, and employment.

“Today, we are here not just to break ground on the PLUS Center for Adaptive Sports and Physical Rehabilitation. We are setting in motion a vision where PWDs can thrive, adapt, and pursue careers as athletes, coaches, and more,” said Celeste Jovenir, DigiPlus Vice-President for Investor Relations and BingoPlus Foundation COO, in the groundbreaking ceremony of the facility. “PADS’ mission to empower PWDs as world-class athletes inspired us deeply at the BingoPlus Foundation. The PLUS Center will fill a critical gap in PWD healthcare, offering accessible rehabilitation and a path to new opportunities through sports.”

The PLUS Center will feature treatment rooms for indigent PWDs availing of free physical therapy services.

The BingoPlus Foundation adopted a multi-sectoral approach to the project. The Foundation collaborated with key partners, including the City of Mandaue, the Department of Health, Cebu Doctors University and various Colleges of Rehabilitative Sciences in Cebu, and the PWD Federation of Cebu. The PLUS Center will provide free physical therapy to indigent PWDs and recovering patients affected by stroke, paralysis, and other mobility-impacting conditions. It will also serve as a training ground for doctors and therapy specialists, ensuring high-quality care and skills development. The facility further provides recreational and competitive sports opportunities for PWDs.

Empowering through sports: a vision shared with PADS

John Paul Maunes, Executive Director of PADS, shared his optimism about the partnership: “This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations come together to support PWDs. We wanted to create a better world and achieve our vision of a disability-inclusive society — but we cannot do it alone. BingoPlus Foundation completed that missing piece in this advocacy. The PLUS Center is not just a facility; it’s a symbol of hope and empowerment for many who aspire to break barriers in sports and in life.”

Hon. Jimmy Lumapas, City Councilor and Chair for Social Services, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are thankful to the BingoPlus Foundation for their commitment to uplifting the lives of PWDs in Mandaue. The PLUS Center will be a cornerstone of support, giving our community members the chance to thrive and succeed beyond their limitations.”

A commitment to community impact

Sports plays an integral role in rehabilitating PWDs — from providing recreation as part of mental health, to advancing opportunities to become competitive para-athletes and coaches.

The launch of the PLUS Center is one of many initiatives driven by the BingoPlus Foundation’s mission to “Multiply the Good.” Apart from supporting PWDs and promoting sports and wellness for the general public, the Foundation also plays a critical role in technology education, disaster relief, and healthcare accessibility. DigiPlus, the parent company of BingoPlus, continues to drive innovation and economic growth while making a lasting impact through corporate social responsibility, empowering the next generation of leaders and athletes.

Together with its partners, the BingoPlus Foundation continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and empowered future for all Filipinos. For more information about the BingoPlus Foundation, please visit https://digiplus.com.ph/bingoplus-foundation/.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to BusinessWorld’s titles and get exclusive content through www.bworld-x.com.

Smart directed to explain, fix service issues

September 20, 2024 | 12:05 am

THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has directed Smart Communications, Inc. to explain the reported service and data disruptions and to restore normal service for both its prepaid and postpaid users in Luzon.

“You are directed to immediately resolve these mobile telecommunications service disruptions,” the NTC said in a memorandum dated Sept. 18.

NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca B. Lopez said Smart must also submit an hourly written report outlining the cause and extent of the incident, and the measures being taken until services have been fully restored.

Smart said it was able to submit the required documents on time, adding that the submission was made on Thursday.

In an advisory on Wednesday, Smart confirmed that some of its customers in Luzon were experiencing intermittent voice, short message service (SMS), and data services due to a power issue in one of its facilities.

On Thursday, the telco company reported that repairs have been completed and services have returned to normal.

However, some customers may still experience intermittent services, Smart said, adding that restoration efforts are being conducted as quickly as possible.

Smart is the wireless unit of PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

Agatha All Along crafts a witch coven community run by women

September 20, 2024 | 12:05 am

Kathryn-Hahn-in-Agatha-All-Along-(2024) — Kathryn Hahn in a scene from Agatha All Along. — IMDB

LOS ANGELES — Actor Kathryn Hahn met with a person she describes as a real-life witch every week to help her further embrace her role as the witch Agatha Harkness in the show Agatha All Along.

“Her mission was to try to de-trope what we see as witches and really add the aspect of community and nature,” Ms. Hahn said.

The Marvel miniseries created by director Jac Schaeffer serves as a spin-off of the Emmy-winning Disney Plus series WandaVision, also created by Ms. Schaeffer.

Ms. Hahn reprises her role as Harkness from WandaVision and is joined by Debra Jo Rupp, who reprises her role as Mrs. Hart, Aubrey Plaza, Joe Locke, Patti LuPone, Sasheer Zamata, and Ali Ahn.

The first two of the nine episodes of Agatha All Along arrived on Disney Plus on Wednesday.

The show picks up after the events of WandaVision, as Harkness finds herself still trapped in the town of Westview, New Jersey, under a trance.

However, she is able to escape from the town with the help of a goth teenage witch who encourages her to regain her powers by facing the trials of the legendary “Witches’ Road.”

Together, Harkness and the goth youth, who is called “Teen” since his name is not immediately revealed, recruit other witches to join their new coven and embark on a journey for magical powers.

For Ms. Schaeffer, it was important to tell a story about women in power and assemble a team of writers that could explore the different supernatural gifts that witches across mythology and popular culture possess.

“I tasked the writers with really in-depth research,” she said.

“They all had sort of different areas of interest. You know, one writer was really into tarot. One writer was very into herbology and trees, and then others were big fans of certain kinds of witchy content,” she added.

Another aspect of women in power that struck the cast and creatives was that the coven of women witches was created by real-life women.

“I mean directed by women, written by a woman, acted by women, and Joe (Joe Locke),” Ms. Rupp said, highlighting the majority work from women on the series.

For Ms. Ahn, the miniseries also shows the range of what it means to be a powerful woman by introducing complex and flawed characters.

“There’s not just one way that you can embody power,” Ms. Ahn said. “You know, there’s all the witches, all the characters are so different. I think that’s pretty remarkable. It’s like, the diversity of the way in which these women will show up, you know, literal and emotional.”

The coven also expressed themselves through music, including a special witches’ song called “The Ballad of the Witches’ Road” that they sing together.

For three-time Tony-winning Broadway performer Patti LuPone, playing the witch named Lilia Calderu felt like it was meant to be.

“You know, it becomes fated or destiny when you start to recognize, ‘OK, I played a witch in Penny Dreadful and now I’m playing another witch,” Ms. LuPone said.

“I’ve done tarot in American Horror Story, and now, it’s this,” she added. — Reuters

Helpful tips and product picks for condo makeovers

September 20, 2024 | 12:05 am

Thinking about all the changes you’d like to make in your home and seeing the endless inspiration available can be quite overwhelming. You save these ideas, eager to tackle everything at once but uncertain on how to start. Time swiftly flies by with no progress made at all. Here’s how you can revamp each room in your condo with practical tips and top-notch product picks from Wilcon Depot.

Living Room

Many people today are embracing the principles of minimalism. They are revisiting the soft silhouettes, clean lines, and comforting ambiance which seek to create spaces that reflect simplicity and purpose. While the idea of a minimalist home — one that is thoughtfully curated with only items and elements that truly matter to you — might seem intimidating, it can actually be the foundation for a more productive and peaceful life. With the right items, achieving this serene and functional environment is within reach.

Home basics floating shelf ledge is perfect for displaying your favorite books, plants, or neutral colored decorative elements without taking up floor space. It adds a modern touch to your walls while keeping your living room clutter-free. This can be matched with a neutral sofa which provides comfort and inviting aura. You can also play between textures like a cozy blanket and colors like throw pillows to freshen up the look seasonally. Alternatively, adding an interior wall panel also adds texture and depth to your living space which creates a more polished and sophisticated look. Sum up your functional setup with a perfect and space efficient center table.

Bring in additional warmth and cozy ambiance to your space with a candle holder and pair it with your favorite scented candles for a relaxing vibe. For additional light, illuminate your space with a chic but timeless pendant lamp. The combination of copper and black adds a touch of character without overwhelming the room.

Rest Room

Transforming your rest room into a stylish but functional sanctuary doesn’t require a complete overhaul, a few strategic updates can make all the difference. Knowing the amenities that you want is important because that affects timelines and execution. With the right fixtures and accessories, you can turn your rest room into a luxurious retreat where you can unwind and rejuvenate.

Keep your towels neatly organized with a towel holder. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference in maintaining a tidy bathroom. A towel bar and shelf also add a touch of elegance while providing a convenient place to hang your bath towels, ensuring they’re always within reach. It helps to achieve a more organized bathroom.

Clean and polished look is a must for any rest room. A trash bin that’s both stylish and functional is an integral feature that fits seamlessly into your bathroom decor. Achieve a perfect bathroom experience through personalizing your bathroom features with Ariston Water Heater. This water heater is perfect for creating that spa-like experience with instant hot water. It’s efficient, stylish, and a true game-changer for your bathroom.

Kitchen

When remodeling your kitchen, focus on items that maximize functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. Too many things can clutter the whole space, making it a pain to clean. Make your kitchen sufficiently filled with furniture that, too, is arranged in an orderly fashion.

To keep the kitchen organized, add a drawer tray storage for utensils, kitchen towels, or small appliances to ensure everything is in its place. A storage rack is perfect for organizing spices, utensils, or even small kitchen gadgets. Its mobility ensures you can bring everything you need right to your cooking station. Don’t forget to add another layer of functionality to your kitchen with a towel shelf. This is ideal for keeping your kitchen towels within reach. Its minimalist design complements any kitchen decor, while its functionality ensures your towels are always where you need them.

Bedroom

Beyond the basics, there are other ways to turn your space into a peaceful sanctuary. The proper incorporation of shape and form can create bold statements that emphasize the true nature of each element.

Start your bedroom makeover with a modern and stylish bed frame. This piece offers more than just a place to sleep. It introduces a touch of modern elegance that harmonizes with various decor elements. Its sleek design and sturdy construction make it a standout choice for anyone looking to refresh their bedroom. Brace it with a 3-layer bookshelf to display your favorite books, decorative items, or even a collection of framed photos.

While typically found in dining rooms, these items can be your makeshift bedroom elements. The Heim scandinavian dining chair can effortlessly transition into the bedroom cozy reading nook or a vanity chair. You can also consider playing with a 4-seater dining table as an unconventional yet effective addition to a spacious bedroom. This table is perfect for a multi-purpose space, serving as a work desk or a craft table.

Maximize your bedroom space with these smart storage solutions from Heim and Kessel. The Heim bedroom drawer provides a sleek spot for essentials like books and electronics while enhancing your room’s aesthetic. Complementing this is the Kessel 2-tier rolling storage rack, a mobile and versatile storage option perfect for clothes, accessories, or linens. Together, these pieces transform your bedroom into a beautifully organized and efficient space.

The essence of personalizing your condo should be conveyed through every element and features seen in the whole space. Maybe you can downsize into a smaller space to allow your family to share more experiences simply because you’re closer together in proximity. Or, maybe arrange your living room in an inviting way to create a relaxing ambiance. No matter what the purpose is behind the transformation, make sure the connections thrive in intentional spaces.

Planning your next project? Do it with Wilcon!

For more information about Wilcon, visit www.wilcon.com.ph or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. or subscribe and connect with them on Viber Community, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Or you may contact Wilcon Depot Hotline at 88-WILCON (88-945266) for inquiries.

Spotlight is BusinessWorld’s sponsored section that allows advertisers to amplify their brand and connect with BusinessWorld’s audience by publishing their stories on the BusinessWorld Web site. For more information, send an email to online@bworldonline.com.

Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to BusinessWorld’s titles and get exclusive content through www.bworld-x.com.

Innovation shines at PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024

September 20, 2024 | 12:05 am

McDonald’s Philippines receives this year’s Grand PANATA Brand of the Year from the Philippine Association of National Advertisers.

McDonald’s wins Grand PANATA Brand of the Year for ‘Ride the Arches’ campaign

Celebrating creativity and strategic execution in modern marketing, the PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024 gave the spotlight to several of the country’s most impactful marketing campaigns, highlighting innovation and strategic excellence across various categories.

Held by the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA), this year’s PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards marks 15 years of unparalleled Brand Excellence and Effectiveness. The awards seek to illuminate the industry with the brightest brands that will pave the way for the future of advertising and brand building.

Golden Arches Development Corp. (McDonald’s Philippines) was a standout, winning multiple accolades for campaigns like “Ride the Arches,” which not only won the Grand PANATA Brand of the Year but also demonstrated the brand’s commitment to customer experience and sustainability. The campaign saw McDonald’s transforming its stores into cyclist-friendly hubs, inviting riders to embark on a unique journey from one golden arch to another. More than just an innovative marketing campaign, it also encouraged an active lifestyle while promoting environmental awareness. The campaign also took home a total of five accolades, including Gold in Marketing Communication Channels — Single Medium — BTL, Gold in Customer Experience, and Bronze in Disruptive Innovation.

The team behind “Ride the Arches,” composed of the seasoned Meryl Adiel Hernandez, Cathleen Denise Barrameda, Gita Manuel, Jann Caitlin Jao, and Isabel Christina Leyeza, was also awarded the Brand Team of the Year.

Moreover, McDonald’s Philippines Corporate Communications Manager Cathleen Denise Barrameda was rightfully honored as the Rookie Brand Builder of the Year.

In addition, the brand’s “Night Classroom” campaign also secured a Gold in the Corporate Sustainability and Brand Trust category. It also won the Most Effective Use of Brand Ambassador for its campaign featuring Vice Ganda and Paolo Ballesteros in “Better Chicken McDo” by Leo Burnett Manila.

Meanwhile, the Media Agency of the Year was awarded to Intersections Communications, Inc., while Meta (Facebook) was named Media Network of the Year.

For the People’s Choice Awards, Watsons Philippines was named Favorite Brand, with its “Watsons Playlist: The Feel Great Concert” campaign by Gobo Creative, Inc. taking the title of Favorite Campaign. Anne Curtis, featured in “Project Care — Do More with BPI” by the Bank of the Philippine Islands, was recognized both as Favorite Brand Ambassador and Favorite Celebrity Endorser.

Special Awards included the Innovative Execution Through Mobile Award, which was given to the Bank of the Philippine Islands for its “May BPI Dito” campaign. The PANATA x Meta Excellence Award went to International Pharmaceuticals, Inc. for Dr. S. Wong’s Sulfur Soap and its “Project Bakwit.”

Celebrating strategy and innovation

This year’s PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards recognized several other outstanding campaigns across various marketing communication channels.

In the category of Marketing Communication Channels — Single Medium — OOH, for instance, Smart Communications, Inc. won Gold for its “FIBA World Cup 2023: Smart Ball of Asia” campaign, executed by Metropolis Evolving Media Solutions Corp. Mitsubishi Motors Philippines took Bronze with its “Excess Baggage Allowed” campaign managed by Beginnings Communications, Inc.

For Marketing Communication Channels-Single Medium-Digital, McDonald’s Philippines secured Gold with the “McDonald’s Kami Naman, Ma” campaign by Leo Burnett Manila. Unilab, with Neozep, through Omnicom Media Group, won Bronze with its “Neozep Meta Precision Campaign.”

The Marketing Communication Channels — Integrated category saw multiple Gold winners: McDonald’s Philippines was recognized for its “Lovin All,” “Our Best Everrr Burgers,” and “Best Me at McDo” campaigns, developed in collaboration with TBWA\Santiago Mangada Puno Advertising, Inc. and Leo Burnett Manila. Nestlé Philippines with Nescafé won Gold for “Kape’t Bisig Sa Pagbangon” by Dentsu Creative Philippines. FWD Life Insurance (FWD Philippines) took Gold with “FWD: The Gamer Insurance” by MullenLowe Treyna, and Colgate-Palmolive Philippines won for “Missing Smiles” with Dentsu Creative Philippines. Coca-Cola also secured Gold with its “Coke Christmas 2023” campaign by WPP Open X – Bates 141 Philippines.

Silver winners included PJ Lhuillier, Inc. with Cebuana Lhuillier and Watsons Philippines for their respective campaigns “Kanegosyo Center” and “Vaxxed Office Hits,” both by Gobocreative, Inc. Watsons Philippines also won Bronze for “Watsons Him-Tayan Club.”

In the Business Growth — Large Enterprise category, PepsiCo Philippines, with Sting, won Gold for the “Sting Hataw Ang Energy Sa Mind and Body Campaign” by DDB MNL, Inc. WeFund Lending Corp., with JuanHand, also took Gold for its “Sagot Ka Ni JuanHand” campaign. Additionally, McDonald’s Philippines continued its success with Gold for “Better Chicken McDo” by Leo Burnett Manila.

Colgate-Palmolive Philippines, with Tender Care, won Silver with “Mint in Box” by Dentsu Creative Philippines; while Nutri-Asia, Inc., with Mang Tomas, and International Pharmaceuticals Inc., with Efficacent Oil, each took Bronze for their respective campaigns, “Mang Tomas Congtv Campaign” and “Trusted Ginhawa.”

In the Corporate Sustainability and Brand Trust category, SM Prime, SM Supermalls, and SM Cares won Gold for their “Rainwater Project” campaign executed by Havas Media Ortega, Inc. PJ Lhuillier, Inc., with Cebuana Lhuillier, took Silver for its “Kanegosyo Center” campaign.

For Disruptive Innovation, FWD Life Insurance, with The Gamer Insurance, received Silver for the “FWD: The Gamer Insurance” campaign by MullenLowe Treyna. The campaign also won Silver in the Product Innovation category.

In the Customer Experience category, Watsons Philippines also won Gold for its “Watsons Playlist: The Feel Great Concert” campaign by Intersections Communications, Inc. Nestlé Philippines, with Nescafé, secured Gold for the “Kape’t Bisig Sa Pagbangon” campaign by Dentsu Creative Philippines; and Bank of the Philippine Islands won Gold for its “May BPI Dito” campaign handled by MullenLowe Treyna.

Meanwhile, Unilever Philippines, with Closeup, received Silver for the “Ride Closer” campaign by Dentsu Creative Philippines, and Coca-Cola took Silver for “Coke Christmas 2023” by WPP Open X – Bates 141 Philippines. Finally, Unilab’s Corporate Branding Group won Bronze for the “Alagang Unilab Bayan Kalusugan” campaign managed by Omnicom Media Group Phils, Inc.

This year’s PANATA Brand Effectiveness Awards underscored brands’ resilience in a challenging economic climate, as it continued to push boundaries and set new standards for consumer engagement.

Potato Corner hits 2,000^th store

September 20, 2024 | 12:04 am

LISTED Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures, Inc.’s (SPAVI) kiosk-based food brand Potato Corner has opened its 2,000^th store as the company gears up for further growth.

The 2,000^th store, located in SM Cebu, is a Potato Corner XP branch owned by franchisee Por Fin Trading Corp., SPAVI said in a statement to the stock exchange on Thursday.

The Potato Corner XP store is a new store format that features an expanded menu such as Friescream, exclusive flavors, signature beverages, and special cuts.

The store format also has a larger footprint, with a dedicated retail space for Potato Corner branded merchandising.

According to SPAVI, the 2,000^th store is the second Potato Corner XP store.

The first branch of the new store format was opened in July at Glorietta, Makati.

“Apart from this being an accretive acquisition, Potato Corner also provides us with a platform to advocate entrepreneurship. We strive to build on the legacy of this brand in growing franchisees. Por Fin is actually one of our first franchisees,” SPAVI President and Chief Executive Officer Vicente L. Gregorio said.

SPAVI acquired Potato Corner in 2022 as part of bolstering its brand portfolio.

Potato Corner is available in 15 markets globally and has partnered with over 800 franchisees worldwide.

The brand recently entered the Malaysian market and has been expanding its presence in China.

Since SPAVI’s acquisition, Potato Corner has added over 700 stores and outlets to its network. The kiosk brand had 1,991 outlets in the Philippines and internationally as of the end of June.

Aside from Potato Corner, SPAVI’s portfolio consists of Shakey’s Pizza, Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar, Singaporean milk tea brand R&B Milk Tea, and artisanal brand Project Pie.

On Thursday, SPAVI shares fell by 0.11% or one centavo to P9.49 apiece. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave

In Vogue: The 90s series looks back at 1990s fashion power

September 20, 2024 | 12:04 am

LONDON — Fashionistas took a break from the London catwalk shows on Monday to gather for the screening of the new documentary series In Vogue: The 90s, which looks back at one of fashion’s most exciting decades and how it influenced mainstream culture.

The six-part series sees Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and colleagues reminisce about 1990s trends and how the worlds of fashion, music, and film came together.

“I do remember how creative it was and really the idea of models becoming celebrities and personalities and fashion really becoming more mainstream in a way that it became more open to the world,” Ms. Wintour told reporters as she arrived for the screening.

“It was a lot of people taking notice of… fashion being so much part of culture and people becoming more familiar with it, which is obviously where we are today.”

The 1990s saw then-emerging designers such John Galliano and the late Alexander McQueen wow the fashion world with their creativity, Tom Ford take over at Italian luxury label Gucci, and supermodels become hugely prominent.

In Vogue: The 90s features contributions from plenty of famous names including models Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, and Kate Moss, actors Gwyneth Paltrow and Nicole Kidman, reality TV star Kim Kardashian as well as designers including Ford, Galliano, and Stella McCartney.

“It was ultimate fashion at its height… I think it’s when the shows were very much performances, when budgets were much bigger, when things were much more experimental, and there was less rules,” designer Harris Reed said.

The first three episodes of In Vogue: The 90s premiered on Disney+ last Friday, with the rest airing this Friday. — Reuters

First Gen awards contract to Singaporean gas supplier

September 20, 2024 | 12:03 am

LOPEZ-LED First Gen Corp. has awarded the contract for its new liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargo to Singapore-based Shell Eastern Trading Pte., Ltd., which will provide supply to its gas-fired power plants in Batangas, its chairman said.

“We just awarded one (contract) to Shell,” First Gen Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Federico R. Lopez told reporters on the sidelines of a conference organized by Net Zero Carbon Alliance on Thursday.

Earlier this month, the company invited bidders for it to procure 154,500 cubic meters of LNG cargo which is scheduled for delivery next month.

The LNG cargo will be delivered to the Subic Bay Freeport in Zambales, where it will be loaded into the BW Batangas, a floating storage and regasification unit, and then used for the power plants.

First Gen has four existing gas-fired power plants with a combined capacity of 2,017 megawatts in the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in Batangas. These plants have been supplied for many years with gas from the Malampaya gas field, the country’s sole natural gas provider.

Its subsidiary, FGEN LNG Corp., constructed an interim offshore LNG terminal and executed a five-year time charter party for BW Batangas to provide LNG storage and regasification services.

As the company procures its LNG requirements via spot purchases, Mr. Lopez said that the Philippines is positioned to get “the best benefit of LNG” through long-term contracting.

“You get better terms, and the country will get better terms and prices if you do it that way. I think that’s really where we really need to head,” he said.

“Right now, we’re just all buying on spot, which can be done, but it’s not the most efficient cost for the country. The country can do better if we all work together,” he added.

In June, First Gen President and Chief Operating Officer Francis Giles B. Puno said that they had deferred the delivery of its fifth LNG cargo as it still has residual supply.

Japanese company TG Global Trading Co. bagged the contract to supply one LNG cargo of approximately 125,000 cubic meters which was supposedly be delivered in July.

Asked if the company will buy another supply this year after the recent purchase, Mr. Lopez said: “As long as it’s needed because you have to keep the lights on.”

“But again, as we’re saying, it’s always better if you can get into large volumes. Again, if the country gets together and we all contract, pool our volumes together,” he said.

First Gen completed its first LNG cargo delivery in Subic in Aug. 2023 and made subsequent deliveries at its Batangas complex in Dec. 2023 and Feb. and May 2024.

At the local bourse, shares in the company went up by 0.59% to close at P17 each. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera