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Lazada focuses on customer service as it adapts to new normal

HOST Nicole Andersson and Lazada’s Carlos Barrera at the official announcement that actress Anne Curtis (R) is the face of Lazada’s 11.11 sale.

Chooses Anne Curtis as new ambassador for 11.11

FOR many Filipinos, online shopping proved to be a boon during the pandemic. With the world returning back to normal, Lazada is ironing out strategies to maintain its pandemic shopping wave.

“I think it’s all about customer experience and how people feel when they buy online,” Carlos Barrera, CEO of online e-commerce platform Lazada Philippines, told BusinessWorld. “The habits have already been built, but we need to continue innovating to offer a better service, and improve how customers feel. We spend so much to make sure that we can deliver faster than anyone,” he said.

“E-commerce in the Philippines continues to grow. We think it will expand to meet other countries, like the penetration you have today in China, or Korea, or even Europe. What’s important is to cater to more people, to continue onboarding more customers, and to serve your sellers and your brands well,” he said.

Fast deliver is one of the reasons that actress Anne Curtis shops on the platform, she said during a press conference last Friday in Makati.

The actress and television host was chosen as the official face for the platform’s 11.11 sale.

Mr. Barrera said during the event, “We have always wanted three things. We knew that we wanted someone who was a businesswoman, who has that drive to always succeed. Then we wanted a mom that was also successful. And then, beautiful, fashionable, and trendy, because that’s what we are all about. There was only one option.”

For her part, Ms. Curtis said that the most recent item she purchased from Lazada was a Halloween costume for her child, Dahlia (whom she raises with her husband, fellow celebrity, and entrepreneur Erwan Heussaff). She also spoke about her attraction to the platform: “For me, most important ‘yung fast shipping. As fast as three days on Lazada, you can get your items.”

She gave a few tips for online shopping: waiting for sale days, shopping around different sellers, and reading reviews. She also noted that “It helps if sometimes, it’s straight from LazMall, so you can be sure,” she said in a mixture of English and Filipino.

The Lazada 11.11 sale will run from Nov. 11 to 13, with deals from BLK Cosmetics, Maybelline, Kiehl’s, and all across the platform. — JL Garcia

Attractive discount, growth outlook draw investors to Globe SRO

GLOBE Telecom, Inc., which recently raised P17 billion from an oversubscribed stock rights offering (SRO), benefited primarily from its attractive discount and growth prospects, according to analysts.

On Friday last week, the company listed 10,119,047 common shares newly issued to shareholders who participated in its recently concluded rights offering on the Philippine Stock Exchange.

The common shares were sold in the offer at P1,680 per share for a 22.6% discount, “raising gross proceeds of approximately P17 billion,” Globe said in an e-mailed statement.

“The offer was oversubscribed, and all the offer shares were fully allocated to existing shareholders,” it noted, adding that “proceeds from the offer will be used to partly fund capex (capital expenditure) and pay the company’s short-term debt obligations.”

Globe intends to further expand its digital ecosystem and differentiate itself in the market as it capitalizes on opportunities in and beyond telecommunications.

Sought for comment, Regina Capital Development Corp. Equity Analyst Anna Corenne M. Agravio said: “The interest of the public was piqued by the attractive discount offered by the SRO price from the Globe’s price during the announcement and even its current market price.”

“Hence, a very inviting opportunity to average down,” she said in a phone message on Friday.

For his part, First Grade Finance, Inc. Managing Director Astro C. del Castillo said: “I’m not surprised if it’s oversubscribed. Number one, Globe has a good track record in the investment community.”

“It was attractive given such an offer and prospects of the company itself. Many investors want to equip themselves with strong cards,” he said in a phone interview.

“Globe’s aggressiveness in the digital world remains, and it continues to be one of the leading digital providers not only in telco but also in other related services,” he added.

Globe President and Chief Executive Officer Ernest Cu said the support “reflects trust in the capability of Globe to execute our core business and digital service platform initiatives.”

“We believe that this offer highlights Globe’s competitive differentiation in the market, further solidifies our healthy financials and enables us to pursue greater milestones while delivering industry-leading value to our shareholders,” said Globe Chief Finance Officer Rizza Maniego-Eala.

Globe Telecom shares closed 0.09% higher at P2,322 apiece on Friday. — Arjay L. Balinbin

AC Motors Trade+ pushes auction format for secondhand sales

AC Motors President Antonio ‘Toti’ Zara III explains the firm’s Trade+ product to select members of the media. — PHOTO BY KAP MACEDA AGUILA

AC MOTORS, a subsidiary of AC Industrials (ACI) — Ayala Corp.’s holding and investment firm for industrial technology, manufacturing, and vehicle distribution and retail interests — recently explained in greater detail the AC Motors Trade+ product.

Trade+ “is a business enterprise of AC Motors that offers diverse channels not limited to the trade-in business.” It presents a hybrid form of traditional and online vehicle auctioning for new buyers and existing owners that is seen to streamline the entire process of selling used cars. Its key value proposition is to offer “just a five-day turnaround time, from inspection, to auction, and payment.” Furthermore, customers will be able to trade in vehicles from any brand, not just those sold by AC Motors.

AC Motors becomes the first dealer group in the Philippines to launch a used car program of this nature — powered by online automotive portal ZigWheels.

In a release, AC Motors said, “What makes the Philippine car market unique is that most first-time buyers would opt for (vehicles) which are budget-friendly. The market’s aspiration, however, still leans towards owning a brand-new car despite the growing popularity of the used-car market.” Used cars have traditionally been the primary choice of buyers on a budget, but with the recent economic downturn in the wake of the pandemic, many still aspire to own a new car that comes complete with the latest technology and features, while still offering peace of mind.

Trade-in programs are said to have gained popularity and market acceptance. What has been missing, however, is a platform and system to benefit both clients selling their vehicles and companies willing to use the transaction as equity for a brand-new car. Existing trade-in programs can take up to three months before a transaction is completed.

“In turn, this delays the new-car purchase, risking the customer losing interest in the product and brand altogether. Then comes the risk of losing equitable market value for the car to be traded, opening up opportunities for undesirable parties to take advantage of customers willing to trade their vehicles. Instead of the dealer chalking up a sale of a brand-new model to a happy customer, such a delay would turn a mutually beneficial opportunity around completely, leading to an often irreversible negative customer experience,” stated AC Motors.

AC Motors Trade+ offers over 50 vehicle models to choose from, flexible finance and insurance options, and an in-house team of evaluation experts will ensure “exceptional customer experience and satisfaction.”

A customer signs up auction form and schedules an appointment to have the car inspected. A full vehicle inspection is expected to happen in 48 hours, after which the unit will be listed for auction.

The details obtained during the inspection will then be uploaded into the Trade+ system where interested parties can negotiate for a fair price. Prices are determined by technology that scours multiple online sources ensuring the proper market price.

When the customer accepts the price, the deal is finalized with the proceeds going to finance the customer’s new car of choice in five days. After getting a brand-new car, a customer can also enjoy “the benefits of proper after-sales services such as expert maintenance, industry-leading warranties, and unparalleled customer support.” Visit http://acmotors.com.ph/ for more information.

India extends curbs on sugar shipments; this year’s export quota expected soon

A vendor repacks sugar at Quinta Market in Quiapo, Manila, Aug. 11, 2022. — PHILIPPINE STAR/EDD GUMBAN

MUMBAI/NEW DELHI — India has extended curbs on sugar exports by one year until October 2023, the government said, but the world’s biggest producer of the sweetener is still expected to fix a quota for this year’s overseas sales.

India, also the world’s biggest sugar consumer, this year restricted exports through to the end of this month to contain a rise in domestic prices following record exports.

“The notification merely extends the government’s policy of keeping sugar exports in the restricted category, but this decision does not mean that the government will not allow sugar exports in 2022/23,” Prakash Naiknavare, managing director of the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories Ltd, told Reuters, referring to the government’s late Friday notice.

The current season’s export quota could be issued next week, trade and government sources said.

Reuters last month reported that the government was poised to allow 5 million tons of sugar exports in a first tranche for the new marketing year that began on Oct. 1.

India is expected to allow about 3 million tons of sugar exports in the second tranche, taking this year’s total overseas shipments of sugar to about 8 million tons.

According to the Indian Sugar Mills Association, a producers’ group, India could export up to 9 million tons of sugar in the 2022-23 season.

Cashing in on attractive global prices traders have already started signing deals to export raw sugar for this season.

Traders are increasingly trying to seal export deals to make up for the delay to this year’s sugar production that got off to a slow start because of unseasonal rains during the first half of this month.

After diverting about 4.5 million tons of sugar for ethanol production, India is expected to produce about 36.5 million tons of the sweetener in the 2022-23 season, up 2% from the previous season. — Reuters

Miss Universe is now Thai

ANNE JAKAPONG JAKRAJUTATIP, CEO of JKN Global Group, and the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization.

The company, that is

ANNE JAKAPONG JAKRAJUTATIP, CEO of JKN Global Group, and the first woman owner of The Miss Universe Organization.

A THAILAND-BASED group now owns the Miss Universe Organization and already has plans on leveraging the famous brand.

“Miss Universe belongs to us.”

That was the announcement made by JKN Global Group Public Company Limited Chief Executive Officer Anne Jakapong Jakrajutatip during an online press conference on Thursday.

The group has interests in media, wellness, beverages, and beauty.

This marks the first time that the organization and its accompanying pageants will be owned by a woman. According to a story from Reuters, the deal was sealed with $20 million.

JKN shared its plans for generating additional value based on the natural strength of the Miss Universe (MU) brand, including the upcoming debut of MU Lifestyle: a new licensing and merchandising arm of The Miss Universe Organization that will leverage the strength of the Miss Universe brand and JKN’s lifestyle portfolio to create a new range of merchandise, as well as entertainment and various business opportunities that reflect the strength of the brand.

The group plans multiple income streams through the Miss Universe pageant it said. These include licensing rights to find a representative for the pageant, for a country to host the pageant, distribute merchandise, and to broadcast the event. Other targeted income streams include ticket sales and talent management fees for the winner. It was projected during the press conference that the pageant reaches more than 600 million people in 170 countries.

The pageant first began in 1952, founded by Pacific Knitting Mills. In 1996, the pageant was bought by Donald Trump. In 2015, the company was sold to IMG, until it fell into the lap of JKN.

“We can be the inspiration for all the women around the world. You can have the crown,” said Ms. Jakrajutatip during the press conference. “Everything is possible if we have confidence.”

“Women will be the idol for everyone here.”

“I know that we’re in very good hands,” Miss Universe Organization President Paula Shugart said during the press conference.

“Miss Universe as a brand is incredibly proud of championing beautifully confident women, and providing opportunities for people all around the world, and for standing as a pillar of dignity, grace and progress: a future forged by women,” said Ms. Shugart.

On a personal note, Ms. Jakrajutatip is also a transgender rights activist. “I was born as a transgender, and had been through so many, many obstacles,” she said, speaking through a translator at the press conference. The pageant had its first transgender contestant in 2018 (Ángela Maria Ponce Camacho representing Spain).

The Philippines has so far produced four Miss Universe winners: Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margarita Moran in 1973, Pia Wurtzbach in 2015, and Catriona Gray in 2018. It has also hosted the pageant three times: in 1974, 1994, and 2017. — Joseph L. Garcia

Parisian catwalk wants to show beauty has no age

MODELS present creations by fashion school students of L’Institut Superieur des Arts Appliques in a fashion show named ‘Another look at old age,’ which promotes a more inclusive stance on age, in Paris, France, Oct. 27. — REUTERS/SARAH MEYSSONNIER

PARIS — Hand in hand, wearing white edgy outfits, elderly models and fashion students walked an unusual fashion show on Thursday evening in Paris, to promote a more inclusive stance on age.

“To live this at my age, it really moves me,” said Daisy Salmon, 90, who added she was delighted to be there and talk with youngsters. “I will remember this for a long time.”

Charity Les Petits Freres des Pauvres (Little Brothers of the Poor) organized the intergenerational show to challenge ageist views in collaboration with fashion school LISAA Mode Paris, whose students designed the clothes, or walked alongside Ms. Salmon and other models.

“Why not elderly people,” 21-year-old Christian Gonzalez said. “We forget them too often in our society.”

The charity’s goal with the show is to shine a light on the need for more age diversity in fashion, as part of a broader campaign to raise awareness about the gap between elderly people’s realities and social clichés, which can lead to their isolation. — Reuters

Concepcion Industrial swings to profitability

LISTED firm Concepcion Industrial Corp. (CIC) reported an attributable net income of P19.32 million in the third quarter, turning around from the P24.35-million net loss a year ago, due to higher volume turnover and prices.

“Margins from higher volume and increased pricing offset headwinds from higher commodity costs and the weakening peso during the quarter,” the company said in a disclosure on Friday.

The company’s topline was also higher at P2.97 billion, a 15% jump from P2.59 billion last year after, booking higher sales of goods amid lower sales of services.

CIC’s net sale of goods totaled P2.78 billion in the third quarter, climbing by 41.7% from P1.96 billion in the previous year.

Its sales from services were lower by 69% to P193.25 million from P624.19 million.

According to the company, its consumer and commercial segments grew by 10% and 28%, respectively.

“Sales growth in the consumer channel was primarily driven by increased pricing while the commercial channel’s growth was driven by the realization of higher backlog and new orders from the opening of business establishments and easing of lockdown restrictions,” the company said.

In the nine months to September, CIC’s attributable net income was lower by 23% to P131.78 million from P171.25 million in the previous year, which it attributed to weak market and low sell-out during the rainy season and mobility restrictions in the first quarter.

Meanwhile, CIC’s year-to-date net sales were at P9.7 billion, 7.5% higher than the P9.02 billion recorded a year ago.

“The business environment remains difficult, but we have made the right investments to weather the storm, and thrive in the recovery that follows. We remain confident that the fundamentals for an eventual economic recovery are in place,” CIC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Raul Joseph A. Concepcion said.

CIC has eight major subsidiaries and two associates. Its primary shareholders are Foresight Realty & Development Corp., Hyland Realty & Development Corp., and Horizons Realty, Inc. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

Rates of T-bills, bonds to rise on Fed, inflation

BW FILE PHOTO

RATES of government securities on offer this week may climb ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s policy-setting meeting and on expectations of elevated Philippine October inflation.

The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) will auction off P15 billion in Treasury bills (T-bills) on Wednesday, made up of P5 billion each in 91-, 182-, and 364-day debt papers.

The BTr will also offer P35 billion in fresh three-year Treasury bonds (T-bonds) on the same day.

The T-bill and T-bond auctions were moved from the usual Monday and Tuesday schedule due to public holidays on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.

A trader expects the rates of T-bills and T-bonds on offer this week to move higher.

“T-bill rates may rise by 25 basis points (bps) if awarded, while the three-year bond could range between 6.375% and 6.625%,” the trader said in a text message.

A second trader said T-bill rates may rise by 5-10 bps from the previous auction.

“For bonds, we expect a coupon rate of 6.25-6.5%,” the trader added in a phone interview.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the upcoming Fed meeting and release of Philippine inflation data could cause T-bill and T-bond yields to go up at this week’s auctions.

“The markets are anticipating the widely expected Fed rate hike and the latest Philippine inflation data. An offsetting positive factor that could temper any further increase in T-bill and T-bond auction yields is the recent appreciation of the peso to the strongest in more than a month that could also help mitigate inflationary pressures,” Mr. Ricafort said in a text message.

Analysts from UnionBank Economics Research said in a market report that expectations of another Fed hike and higher Philippine inflation could boost risk appetite.

Investors widely expect the Fed to hike rates by as much as 75-bps at their Nov. 1-2 meeting to combat inflation. The Fed has so far raised rates a total of 300 bps since March.

At home, a BusinessWorld poll of 14 analysts last week yielded a median estimate of 7.2% for the October inflation, above the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) 2-4% target and 5.6% forecast for the year.

If realized, this would be faster than the 6.9% seen in September and the 4% last year, and be the quickest in over 14 years or since the 7.8% print logged in December 2008.

The Philippine Statistics Authority will release October inflation data on Friday, Nov. 4.

At the secondary market on Friday, the 91- 182- and 364-day T-bills were quoted at 3.7503%, 4.5345%, and 4.888%, respectively, based on the PHP Bloomberg Valuation Service Reference Rates published on the Philippine Dealing System’s website.

Meanwhile, the three-year bond fetched a yield of 6.3028%.

The government partially awarded the T-bills it auctioned off last week, even as total tenders reached P20.86 billion, higher than the programmed P15 billion.

Broken down, the BTr borrowed just P2.505 billion through the 91-day T-bills, even with total bids reaching P8.3 billion, above the P5-billion program. The average rate of the tenor rose by 190.2 bps to 4.22% from the 2.318% seen on Sept. 5, the last successful award.

The Treasury also raised only P2.1 billion via the 182-day securities despite tenders reaching P7.466 billion versus the P5 billion on the auction block. The average rate of the six-month T-bill went up by 69.2 bps to 4.65% from the 3.958% quoted for the last successful award on Sept. 26.

Lastly, the BTr awarded just P2.049 billion through the 364-day debt papers, even with demand for the tenor reaching P5.094 billion, higher than the P5-billion plan. The average rate of the tenor increased by 109.3 bps to 4.875% from 3.782% fetched for the last successful award on Aug. 22.

The Treasury plans to raise P215 billion from the domestic market in November, or P140 billion through T-bills and P75 billion from T-bonds.

The government borrows from local and external sources to help plug a budget deficit capped at 7.6% of gross domestic product this year. — Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson

‘MG Live!’ returns; more promos offered

IMAGE FROM MG PHILIPPINES

OCTOBER 2022 marks the fourth year of MG Philippines under the distributorship of The Covenant Car Company, Inc. In line with the anniversary, the company holds a “Cheers to Extraordinary” promotion for the whole month. Special deals are available on brand-new MG cars and SUVs in all 42 MG dealerships nationwide.

The MG 5 1.5-liter CVT Style sedan variant is available for a low down payment of P48,000, or with a cash discount of P70,000. The top-of-the-line MG HS 1.5-liter Trophy SUV is offered with a low down payment of P35,000 or a P100,000 cash discount.

Aside from its promos on new vehicles, MG Philippines brings back “MG Live!” — the company’s flagship, free concert roadshow series that features the latest MG cars and SUVs, engaging test drives at the “MG Live! Drive and Win” course, and live musical performances from both up-and-coming and iconic OPM artists. To drum up the excitement for the much-awaited event, MG Philippines has activated a special raffle promo that gives fans a chance to take home premium gift items. To join, customers need to visit these “MG Live! 2022” activations on the following dates and take a test drive around the designated “MG Live! Drive and Win” course: Nuvali Solenad 1, Nov. 4 to 6; and Autofocus Pre-Christmas Test Drive Festival, Nov. 17 to 20.

Each successful test drive made and recorded around the “MG Live! Drive and Win” course will earn one raffle entry, and lucky customers get a chance to win any of the following prizes: a Sony Playstation 5; two Apple Watch SEs; and three pairs of Apple AirPods Pro. Test-drive clients may take multiple runs with different MG vehicles through the “MG Live! Drive and Win course at each leg, but only one raffle entry per client is recorded.”

Filipino indie-rock band This Band performs on the “MG Live!” concert stage at SM Marikina on Oct. 23 at 4 p.m., and OPM icon Parokya ni Edgar will be at Nuvali Solenad 1 on Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. Both “MG Live!” legs also feature an opening performance by Idol Philippines 2022 first runner-up Kice. Visit https://mgmotor.com.ph/promos for a full list of promos this October, and follow the official Facebook account of MG Philippines (OfficialMGPhilippines) and Instagram account (mg_philippines).

Brazil to buy US, Canada and Russian wheat as Argentine supplies dwindle

PAZ ARANDO-UNSPLASH

SAO PAULO — Brazil will need to seek alternative wheat sellers because Argentina’s crop failure has curtailed production and compromised its ability to export, analysts said, pointing to the United States, Canada and even Russia as possible suppliers.

Brazil is a net wheat importer and neighboring Argentina, which is currently suffering a drought, is its most important source of the cereal.

“Generally, Brazil gets about 6 million tons from Argentina,” said StoneX Risk Management Consultant Fabio Lima. But now, he expects between 1 and 1.5 million tons of imports coming from outside Mercosur, the South American trade bloc.

Brazil is one of the world’s largest wheat importers, with domestic consumption above 12 million tons per year, below its output capacity.

In the 2021 to 2022 commercial year that ended in July, Brazil imported only about 155,000 tons of wheat from countries outside the Mercosur.

In turn, the year before, it purchased almost 900,000 tons from the United States, Canada and Russia, according to Brazilian government data.

Aside from the drought in Argentina, Brazil’s key producer Parana is facing excessive rains, also compromising domestic supplies.

The Mercosur Common External Tariff (TEC) is zero for imports of some products this year, including wheat. Brazil also has an annual 750,000-tons wheat import quota that is exempt from the tariffs.

Mr. Lima said it is difficult to estimate how much wheat will come from outside Mercosur. He cited rumors of potential cargo from Russia, but could not elaborate.

Carlos Cogo, from Cogo Intelligence, cited the United States, Canada and Russia as potential alternative suppliers for Brazil. But he cautioned buying from them will be expensive, potentially fueling domestic inflation.

According to Mr. Cogo’s data, Argentina has already sold almost 9 million tons from their 2022 to 2023 crop, leaving very little additional supplies and pushing prices higher. — Reuters

Style (10/31/22)

FACEBOOK.COM/SWAROVSKI.GLOBAL

Swarovski holiday collection

SWAROVSKI has always provided the perfect adornment to the season’s festivities with crystal, from jewelry and accessories to festive figurines and home décor. This holiday season, Swarovski has developed a new collection of unique gifts and adornments. The holiday jewelry lines are the Stella, a distinctive star-shaped jewelry family whose holiday collection includes rose gold-tone plated styles, contemporary designs featuring crystal pearls, and existing designs updated with blue center stones; Constella, which launches a holiday collection featuring a silver-tone colorway with clear crystals; Millenia, which this season goes clear crystal. The full collection will be available in-store and online at trunc.ph. In the Philippines, Swarovski is available in Rustan’s Alabang, Makati, Shangri-La, and Ayala Cebu. Swarovski is also available through boutiques owned and operated by Stores Specialists, Inc. at Alabang Town Center, Glorietta, Newport Mall, TriNoma Mall, Power Plant Mall, and SM Mall of Asia.

Gucci appoints NewJeans’ HANNI as brand ambassador

GUCCI has announced that the singer HANNI, vocalist of the Korean music band NewJeans, as its new brand ambassador. NewJeans, the five-member rookie group, has been K-Pop’s latest hit since their recent debut in July. Following the release of their first EP, New Jeans, the group continues to engage the public with their vibrant charisma. Its singer, HANNI, has captured the public’s attention, connecting with worldwide audiences. “HANNI’s take on music and fashion style truly encompasses the brand’s motif of embracing authentic individuality and self-expression,” Gucci said in its announcement. HANNI will be a guest at the Gucci Cosmogonie fashion show in Seoul, on Nov. 1.

Tommy Jeans launches capsule collection with MYne

TOMMY Hilfiger, which is owned by PVH Corp., has announced its first collaboration with Tokyo streetwear brand MYne. The collaboration intermixes the brand’s “playful American cool” with MYne’s “irreverent aesthetic, to celebrate self-expression through culture, music and art,” the announcement said. The nine-piece capsule collection offers an irreverent take on streetwear staples and includes classic denim, prints with both brands’ logos, a 1990s-inspired regatta jacket, a rugger shirt with asymmetrical sizing and color scheme, and a crewneck sweatshirt adorned with a varsity-style logo. Details include a reversed front and back design, color-blocking and finishes in the brand’s signature red, white, and blue palette. The collection is available at select Tommy Jeans stores, MYne’s directly managed stores, and online at tommy.com.

Kashmir-based fashion store opens its first PH branch

NARAM Pashmina opened its first branch in the Philippines on Oct. 28 at Level 2 of the Main Wing, Shangri-la Plaza mall in Mandaluyong, with owner Latif Ahmad Bhat and his local partner Romella D. Santiago. The store carries elaborate fine pashmina and cashmere products, pure handwoven silk embroidered jackets, cotton kaftans, and handcrafted silver jewelry with authentic gemstones. Mr. Bhat’s late grandfather, Mohammad Sultan Bhat, was a famous needlework craftsman from Srinagar, Kashmir who specialized in Kashmiri Sozni, embroidery patterns of paisley, flora, and arabesques spread through the fabric. Kashmiri Sozni can see the artist spending 16 hours each day over two years to perfect a dorukha, or Kashmiri shawl, which are double-sided or double-faced. Pashmina is made from the shed wool of the ibex, wild goats from the Himalayas. The best pashmina shawl will pass through the tiniest of rings, and are very soft and warm to the touch. “At Naram Pashmina, we guarantee 100% purity of our shawls and stoles,” Mr. Bhat promised. The store also offers the Ivory Jaal pashmina shawl, a luxurious and elegant hand-embroidered cashmere stole decorated with floral filigree motifs and patterns. The store’s kaftans are meticulously crafted robes suitable to almost every social occasion, formal or casual.

Avon’s anti-breast cancer campaign now on 30th year

IN 2019, the Philippines had the highest prevalence of breast cancer in Asia, and ninth highest in the world. The following year, breast cancer was still one of the top two most common among Filipino women with majority diagnosed at advanced stages. Fortunately, early detection of symptoms has helped patients with a 90% survival rate through immediate treatment and medication. This is why every year during October, the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month to encourage more people to know more about this indiscriminate disease and be more proactive in regular self-checks that can help detect preliminary symptoms. Global beauty brand Avon has been one of the most prominent brands who supports this cause, now marking three decades since launching the Breast Cancer Crusade in the UK in 1992. This year, Avon continues this worthy cause with a global campaign encouraging everyone to discover what’s #NormalForMe by asking themselves: what three words best describe their boobs? The campaign invites women to know their normal by coming up with three words according to how their breasts usually look and feel and share those three words and the initiative to inspire others to also regularly check themselves. Knowing one’s normal can prevent potentially life-threatening changes that can lead to Breast Cancer. Avon is also raising funds on behalf of the Philippine Cancer Society with dedicated fundraising products like the Self-Check Watch, Mariposa 2-in-1 Accessory Giftset, Avon Empower Non-Wire Mastectomy Bra, and the Avon Empower Bra Prosthesis. Purchase these items via avonshop.ph or contact an Avon Representative. The public may also donate any amount directly via GCash by scanning the QR. All proceeds will be donated to Avon’s partner beneficiary, the Philippine Cancer Society. For more information about Avon’s #NormalForMe campaign visit bit.ly/avonbreastcancerpromise.

Montblanc’s latest smartwatch

MONTBLANC evolves its smartwatch offering with the new Montblanc Summit 3 smartwatch, with classic fine watchmaking design and contemporary smartwatch technology. The latest smartwatch features a hand-crafted light-weight titanium watch case, configurable watch faces inspired by Montblanc’s heritage in watchmaking paired with handmade calf leather and rubber straps. It is powered with the latest version of Wear OS by Google and includes a variety of apps to meet the functional needs of its owner. While the Montblanc Summit 3 lineup includes three versions of the smartwatch — a Titanium Grey case paired with black calf and blue rubber straps, a Titanium Black case paired with black calf and black rubber straps, as well as Titanium Bicolor case paired with a Montblanc Extreme 3.0 British green calf leather strap and black rubber straps — the personalization options are extensive. The collection contains watch faces inspired from Montblanc’s traditional watchmaking heritage, such as the Geosphere, Bohème, or 1858 watch faces. It also includes more modern options, which combine beauty and technology by providing the user with useful insights, such as the daily progress of their health goals. Each Montblanc Summit 3 smartwatch comes with a calf leather strap. Additionally, a larger variety of additional straps from the strap range of other Montblanc Summit and novel models complement the core selection. The smartwatch incorporates a personal health suite and includes step tracking, sleep monitoring including the different sleep phases, and blood oxygen measurement. The fitness app has evolved its offering with a variety of workouts that can be tracked to maximize their impact over time. Powered with Wear OS by Google, the Montblanc Summit 3 can be enhanced with the addition of all the apps necessary to meet the needs of its owner including Google Maps and Google Pay. The smartwatch features increased battery capacity compared to the Summit 2, a broad range of support tools to maximize the full lifecycle experience, as well as battery replacement by Montblanc Service. The Montblanc Summit 3 smartwatch is delivered in sustainable paper packaging.

Maison Margiela releases new fragrance

IN 1994, Maison Margiela created Replica, a collection of clothing and accessories inspired by garments collected from around the world and chosen for the universality and timelessness of their style and history. Each garment is reproduced identically and is marked with a plain white label indicating its provenance, period, and style description. Inspired by the collection of clothing and accessories, the Replica fragrances capture memories that everyone can share. Every scent instantly evokes images, impressions, and positive emotions that echo the collective unconscious as well as the user’s own personal history. It has just come out with a new fragrance: When the Rain Stops. Like earlier Replica fragrances, including Lazy Sunday Morning, By the Fireplace, and Bubble Bath, this new scent is inspired by a familiar recollection — in this case the recollection of sensations associated to the instants following a rain shower on a beautiful spring day. A woody aquatic fragrance, When the Rain Stops opens with a vibrant pink pepper essence blend with the fresh and luminous Rose petal essence. The other main sensation conveyed by When The Rain Stops is the wet freshness of nature after the rain. This earthy and woody freshness is recreated by the association of patchouli Bali essence, pine needle essence and a unique aquatic accord. When The Rain Stops is one of the Replica line’s most sustainable fragrance to date. One of its main ingredients, rose petal essence, is processed by LMR-Naturals, a vertically integrated platform in the Isparta region in Turkey. The essence of Patchouli Bali essence comes from a sustainable supply chain. When The Rain Stops is available in 100 ml (P8,650) and 30 ml (P4,650) formats. Maison Margiela Replica perfumes are exclusively distributed by Rustan Marketing Corp. And are available at Rustans.com, Rustan’s Shangri-La Plaza, Central Square, and soon in Rustan’s Alabang this November.

Hado Labo face lotion for different skin types

FACE lotions, in general, are great for many skin types, as their key goal is to nourish the skin. This is why they are a must in a classic Japanese beauty routine, that’s known to deliver mochi-mochi skin — named after the dessert famous for its baby-soft, bouncy, velvety matte texture. Japanese skincare brand Hada Labo offers two lines in the Philippines: Hada Labo Gokujyun Hydrating Lotion and Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion. While both promise hydration as they contain good-for-the-skin and water-retaining hyaluronic acid, each has a specific purpose. Gokujyun Hydrating Lotion is the brand’s original bestselling lotion that’s perfect for daily use, especially for dry or normal skin. Its updated version, Gokujyun Hydrating Lotion Rich, has five types of hyaluronic acid (the previous has four) to introduce high function moisturizing technology to the skin. Hyaluronic acid, high molecular hyaluronic acid, acetylated hyaluronic acid, and nano hyaluronic acid all deeply hydrate the skin, replenish optimum moisture, create a moisture-locking shield to prevent moisture loss, and enhance absorption of other skin-care ingredients. The addition of the world’s first fermented hyaluronic acid in this face lotion significantly improves its barrier function even more. The line also has Hada Labo Gokujyun Hydrating Light Lotion that has the same formula as the former, just tweaked a bit for oily or combination skin with its light, non-greasy texture. The Hada Labo Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion is best for dull, tired skin. Apart from hyaluronic acid, it also contains brightening ingredients. This face lotion contains two types of hyaluronic acid that form a layer of barrier on the skin’s surface to prevent moisture loss and enhance the absorption of other skincare ingredients, all while penetrating deeply into the skin to provide moisture into the inner skin layers. The Shirojyun Premium Whitening Lotion is infused with vitamins C and E that are known for soothing and relieving discomfort after sun exposure. Vitamin C is also a popular skin brightening ingredient for effectively fading dark spots, reducing redness and dullness, and evening out the skin tone. Vitamin E, on the other hand, can help protect the skin from discoloration and minimize the appearance of scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. To find out more about Hada Labo face lotions and its other skincare products, check out the brand’s popup store at the Upper Ground Floor in SM Megamall on Nov. 17-30. Spend at least P1,500 to get free limited edition Hada Labo mirror and more freebies, and have a chance be one of the 10 winners of P1,000 worth of Mochiko Mochi dessert vouchers. Follow @HadaLaboPH on Facebook and Instagram, and post about the popup store on social media with the hashtags #HadaLaboPH and #mochimochiskin. Hada Labo products are now available at Watsons, Zalora, and online through the official Mentholatum store on Lazada and Shopee.

PAVI to energize 60,000 homes in Visayan islands 

PAVI’s CAMPCOR Plant which provides electricity to over 26,752 families living in Poro and Pilar in Camotes Islands, Cebu.

PRIME Asset Ventures, Inc. (PAVI), through its power companies, is set to energize 60,000 households in Siquijor and Camotes Islands to address growing power demand.

Jose Rommel Orillaza, president of PAVI’s power group, said in a media release the company has detected an increase in demand for electricity due to the holiday season.

He said the company’s units — S.I. Power Corp. and Camotes Island Power Generation Corp. — “has built the necessary infrastructure to serve these previously underserved, and unelectrified households.”

Through the two companies, PAVI said it is set to produce 21.27 megawatts (MW) of power that is expected to serve almost 60,000 households in Siquijor and Camotes Islands in the Visayas.

“Our presence in these underserved areas is helping the government and the DoE (Department of Energy) in reaching 100% electrification in all households,” Mr. Orillaza said.

S.I. Power has a 20-year power supply agreement (PSA) with Siquijor Electric Cooperative, Inc. It provides 12.86 MW of power through bunker-fired power generation facilities and power stations.

Meanwhile, Camotes Island Power has a 15-year PSA with Camotes Electric Cooperative, Inc. that supplies residents with a total of 8.41 MW of power through diesel plants and generating units.

According to the DoE’s accomplishment report, the country last year recorded a 95.41% household electrification level, with 25.02 million households now with electricity. — Ashley Erika O. Jose

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