USANA Philippines celebrated Women’s Month 2024 along with a special milestone in the company’s history: it marked its 15th year of offering science-based beauty products to the local market and helping every Filipina to become more confident in their own skin.
To commemorate the occasion, USANA Philippines introduced a new product. The new release is Advanced Collagen, a daily supplement powder that, when mixed with water, creates a refreshing drink with a light pomegranate and citrus flavor. It’s formulated to help maintain nourished skin and hair so anyone enjoying it can just “sip back and smile” as their body absorbs formulated nutrients to help maintain one’s natural glow.
The science of beauty
Today, in a stark reversal of stereotypical beauty, women are focusing more on living a full life and becoming the best versions of themselves — at any age. They’re gracefully moving with the passage of time, maintaining a healthy glow, for far too long, has been associated strictly to youth. And USANA loves these women.
By embracing the truth of ageless beauty, women are no longer bound to the number of years lived, but rather caring for their bodies. Don’t think spa treatments and pedicures, but rather the basic — but essential — building block of health: nutrition.
USANA believes proper nutrients promote beauty on a cellular level, no matter your age. The secret is to access important nutrients that are difficult to obtain in diets — not in the needed amounts, anyway.
And for skin, this means collagen. A key component in the cellular makeup of skin and bones, it’s made up of mainly protein molecules consisting of amino acids responsible for your skin’s suppleness and elasticity.
USANA’s Advanced Collagen is a drink that containsCollagen, Biotin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C.The Advanced Collagen drink is a refreshing way to support healthy skin aging, maintain skin elasticity, and preserve and protect one’s natural beauty.
When we’re young, our body naturally produces collagen. As you age, not only do you lose a good amount of it, but your body no longer produces enough collagen to keep skin soft and joints strong and supple. That’s why it’s important to supplement your body’s collagen production with whole foods or natural supplements through every stage of life.
Boosting what comes naturally
It’s true collagen and other nutrients essential for skin and bone health are found in whole foods such as animal products. And yet, it’s always easy to create a diet with balanced amounts to maintain normal skin structure — especially when facing the ravages of time and environmental stress.
Enter USANA’s Advanced Collagen powder drink. Mix one scoop into a glass of water, give it a quick stir, and sip at your leisure. You’ll rest easy knowing a single serving provides balanced level of thoughtfully sourced collagen, biotin, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C. So live your best life. Let Advanced Collagen help rejuvenate and maintain your skin’s luster and elasticity for years to come.
You can simply sip back and smile with USANA’s Advanced Collagen drink.
About USANA
USANA (NYSE:USNA) prides itself on providing consumers the highest quality nutritional products in the world. From its quality nutritional products to its innovative skincare and Active Nutrition lines, USANA has proven for nearly 30 years why it’s a company you can trust. How about giving us a try? Shop at USANA.com or learn more at whatsupUSANA.com.
DITO surprised the Magiliw to an exclusive fan meet and greet event with Alamat and launched the perfect merchandise that highlights Filipino talent!
MANILA, JUNE 5, 2024 – Something is in the air because we are definitely seeing a spectacular rise for Ppop music and artists! The uniquely Filipino PPop group Alamat is also continuing and strengthening their collaboration with DITO Telecommunity with yet another exciting campaign! The boy group just released their newest exclusive merchandise in partnership with the telecom company as part of the #GalingDITO 2024 campaign.
Exclusive DITO x Alamat Fan Meet and Merchandise Launch Event stickers and posters
The fan meet event was held together with a special online giveaway open to DITO subscribers, particularly those who are fans of Alamat. Since the launch of the #GalingDITO 2024 campaign last February 12, Alamat’s fans who are known as the Magiliw, have shown overwhelming support and love for the DITO x Alamat collaboration. The Magiliw organized trending hashtag campaigns and online activities, mobilizing the fandom to support the campaign.
From May 6 to 22, 2024, active DITO Mobile Subscribers registered online for a chance to be one of the 300 lucky Magiliw attendees at the Alamat Fan Meet. Thousands of entries from fans and everyone alike who were excited to see the boy group in person were received online!
DITO x Alamat Fan Meet and Merchandise Launch Event Key Visual
Ms. Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business, said that the merch collaboration with Alamat is something that came from the organic support of the Magiliw for the PPop boy group ever since they were launched as the main talents of the #GalingDITO 2024 campaign. “When we launched #GalingDITO 2024 last February, Alamat performed the official song and music video because with their multi-ethnic and multi-lingual musical artistry, they embody the campaign’s goals of highlighting Filipino talent from across the Philippine regions. We did not expect such huge support from Alamat’s fans, the Magiliw, as well as PPop fans. Thank you so much to all the Magiliw for the big wins and the big love that you give us at DITO Telecommunity and of course, Alamat. We can only give back with these collaborations between DITO and Alamat as we continue to uplift Filipino talent.”
DITOTayoMagiliw Fan Meet
The merch collaboration was launched in a fan meet and greet event held this May 26 at SM Megamall. Hundreds of lucky Magiliw were the very first ones to get their hands on the special merchandise of ten (10) photocards consisting of six (6) member solo photos, two (2) subunit photos, and two (2) group photos! Up for grabs also were exclusive items that were not for sale to the public such as stickers, posters, and button pins, some of which were designed by a talented Magiliw, Gelai Manabat!
DITO x Alamat Event Displays
The Magiliw who joined the event enjoyed special performances from Alamat, including a thrilling live version of “Ang Galing DITO”, their collaboration song with DITO Telecommunity and the main theme of the #GalingDITO 2024 campaign.
DITO x Alamat Event Displays
Truly showcasing their “galing”, Alamat’s talents shone through with lively performances of hit songs “Maharani”, “Day and Night”, and “Dayang”.
Passionate Magiliw got the chance to meet their favorite 6inoos (ginoo) Taneo, Mo, Tomas, R-ji, Alas, and Jao, all while enjoying their interactions with the boys and having their DITO x Alamat merchandise signed.
Alamat performing “Ang Galing DITO”, the collaboration song with DITO TelecommunityInterview with select Alamat fans or the MagiliwLucky Magiliw were chosen to participate in a cute challenge with Alamat!The Magiliw also got a chance to play games with Alamat!Alamat and the Magiliw enjoyed interacting with each other in the photo and merch signing opportunity
The group expressed their gratitude for the continued collaboration with DITO and the company’s support for their music and said that, “Being part of the #GalingDITO campaign this year has helped us a lot as artists because one of Alamat’s mission is to promote Filipino culture, and it perfectly aligns with DITO’s goals. The campaign further amplified what we want to do as Alamat so thank you so much to DITO Telecommunity for welcoming us into your family. We feel like they’re one of the first big brands who really trusted us so we’re so grateful for them and we promise that we won’t let you down.”
Alamat also conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to all their Magiliw who are supporting them and their campaign with DITO. “Thank you is not enough, really, because from the very start you all have been there and we see more Magiliw joining us. We hope there will be more Magiliw, so from the bottom of our hearts, thank you and we love you,” said Alamat during the Fan Meet interview.
Get your own #DITOxAlamat Merchandise
Don’t worry because even if you missed this fan event, you still have the chance to get your own DITO x Alamat Exclusive Merchandise, coming soon! The DITO x Alamat photocards are exclusively bundled with the DITO Level-Up SIM Bundles or the DITO Level-Up Socials promo so just purchase these great deals to get the exclusive merchandise!
Available soon on-ground at DITO Experience Stores when you purchase the DITO Level-Up Socials promo, and online at the DITO eShop, and DITO’s official stores in Lazada, Shopee and, TikTok when you purchase the DITO Level-Up SIM Bundles – collect all photocards of Alamat and your favorite 6inoos:
Get one (1) Solo Photocard of your choice or get up to ten (10) Photocards inclusive of six (6) Solos + Two (2) Group photos + Two (2) Subunits depending on the DITO Level-Up promo you will purchase Get exclusive bonus merch when you purchase the DITO Level-Up Socials promo in-store or at on-ground events
If you buy the DITO Level-Up Socials at the DITO Experience stores or at DITO’s upcoming events, you can also choose which photocard you will get, plus bonus merch! Online purchases of the DITO Level-Up SIM bundles will entail users to get random photocards as there will be no option to choose.
Watch out and don’t miss the chance to complete the special DITO x Alamat photocards as you purchase these value-for-money telecom promos from DITO!
About DITO Telecommunity DITO Telecommunity Corporation is the fastest-growing telecommunications provider in the Philippines after it was awarded a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity by the National Telecommunications Commission in 2019.
DITO commits to provide world-class, fast, affordable, and secure telecommunications services that endeavor to connect and empower Filipino communities wherever they may be, and aims to see a day where data access is no longer a privilege, but a right for everyone.
DITO is a Filipino company and is a consortium that includes Udenna Corporation and China Telecommunications Corporation.
For more information and updates, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook and Instagram or visit https://dito.ph/.
USANA Philippines marks its 15th year milestone with a grand celebration together with its executives, directors, employees, and associates.
USANA Philippines recently celebrated its 15-year anniversary in it its ongoing mission to maintain wellness. Company executives, ambassadors, Associates, and product users all attended this grand celebration — a testament to the unwavering commitment to reach one million families worldwide.
Since its launch in 2009, USANA Philippines has received numerous accolades: Named among the best companies to work for in the country by the HR Asia Awards; Winning the prestigious Linchpin Award from the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA); Recognized by Euromonitor as the Number 1 Vitamins and Dietary Supplements Brand in the Philippines for five consecutive years.
To find out more about USANA and its products, please visit /http://www.USANA.com.
But beyond awards, the community it empowers is the true measure of success. From employees to Associates, life-changing opportunities allow them to grow both personally and professionally. When Analan Omambing, assistant customer service manager, joined USANA she was shy and introverted, but the support she’s received has pushed her to step up as a team leader.
“The career growth and personal development I gained here have transformed my personality significantly,” she says.
USANA Philippines also creates ways to form meaningful relationships.
“Direct selling, especially USANA, is all about relationships,” says Aurora Gaston, vice president for sales development.
As the first employee hired by USANA Philippines, Loudelle Cinco, USANA’s regional controller in the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia has experienced it all.
“One of the things I treasure is the friendship, having a family in USANA. This position has paved the way to building great and lasting relationships.”
Over the past 15 years, USANA has seen a shift in their Associate’s perspectives — from a focus on individual success to embracing a more collaborative and inclusive view of the community.
“This comprehensive development approach underscores USANA’s commitment to not only enhance the lives of our Associates but also empower them to make a meaningful difference in the world” shared Cherry Dionisio-Ampig, general manager for USANA Philippines.
USANA consistently strives to make an impact by being responsive to shifts in consumer behavior. Changes made over the years include strengthening the brand through collaboration, embracing the evolution of social media, and ensuring Associates can effortlessly introduce USANA’s products to the world. And as USANA Philippines celebrates this milestone, its vigor to sustain wins and touch more lives grows even stronger.
“We are dedicated to ongoing research and innovation to develop products that not only meet — but exceed — the expectations of families worldwide. By focusing on efficacy and quality, we aim to be the trusted partner in every family’s journey towards maintaining wellness” Cherry says.
The 15-Year “Ignite the Vibe” celebration was held at the Marriot Hotel Grand Ballroom. It’s the final touch to the anniversary festivities that kicked off with a Thanksgiving Day event in January.
About USANA USANA (NYSE:USNA) prides itself on providing consumers the highest quality nutritional products in the world. From its quality nutritional products to its innovative skincare and Active Nutrition lines, USANA has proven for nearly 30 years why it’s a company you can trust. How about giving us a try? Shop at USANA.com or learn more at whatsupUSANA.com.
“At XPRESSO, we understand that you’re always on the go, and we are here to fuel your journey with a shot of happiness. XPRESSO by UCC is more than just a coffee kiosk; it is a testament to our commitment to providing you with the best quality coffee, quickly and conveniently,” said Mugen Group President and CEO Hubert U. Young in his speech during the event.
The grand opening was attended by members of the media and special guests, who were treated to a thrilling performance from Taiko Drummers, a raffle, games, and the Wish Bus.
The Go-To Store for To-Go Quality Coffee
“We are proud to offer our products at affordable prices without compromising on quality. Our coffee and food items are meticulously crafted to ensure they meet the high standards that UCC is known for. From P60 to P180 for beverages and P70 to P120 for food items, XPRESSO makes premium coffee accessible to everyone,” Young said
XPRESSO by UCC’s menu includes to-go coffee and non-coffee varieties that are perfect with their pastries and sandwiches. The menu items are designed to be ready-to-carry for customers on their way to school, work, or home.
The store’s design and branding are heavily influenced by Japanese pop culture and aesthetics as can be seen in its logo, which consists of a red circle (similar to the Nisshōki or Japanese flag) and the XPRESSO name, all contained within a stacked box.
XPRESSO by UCC caters to coffee lovers from different age groups — GenX, Millennials, and GenZ who are looking for quality coffee on-the-go. Its official tagline, “A Sip of the Rising Sun”, embodies its Japanese roots and inspiration. The company that eventually became UCC was founded in Kobe in 1933 by the Father of Coffee in Japan, Tadao Ueshima. The tagline also mirrors the heartwarming and energetic personality of XPRESSO by UCC in helping Filipinos level up their day and encourage them to be their best. Serving the Second Biggest Coffee Consumers in Asia According to the World Coffee Portal Research, the Philippines is the second largest individual coffee-consuming market in Asia with 80% of Filipinos drinking an average of 2.5 cups a day. Japan comes in first place. These numbers reflect that coffee is not just a pastime for Filipinos, but an integral part of their lifestyle.
With this in mind, XPRESSO by UCC seeks to serve Filipino coffee drinkers who are looking for new coffee offerings that don’t compromise on quality.
“As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission: to provide convenient coffee venues that serve the finest flavors of Japanese coffee at an affordable price. Each cup of XPRESSO coffee is a promise of quality and a moment of joy,” Young said.
Coffee enthusiasts who are looking for a quick stopover to enjoy a good brew will delight in the newest store concept unveiled by UCC Ueshima Coffee Philippines by the Mugen Group, the company behind the UCC cafes and restaurants in the Philippines. On June 5, it held the grand opening of its first XPRESSO by UCC at Petron Bel-Air in Makati.
Step into MR.DIY, shop, and chill with your furry friends in our pet-friendly stores!
A Community of Pet Lovers Pets are integral to the MR.DIY experience. Witness adorable pups nestled in carts and gentle giants strolling down our aisles, where our staff warmly greet your four-legged buddies. We offer a variety of pet products to ensure their happiness.
While our standalone branches welcome furry friends with diapers and leashes, our pet-friendly policy adheres to mall regulations, too! Pet owners must follow certain mall guidelines as some malls require the pets’ proof of vaccination and owners must always ensure they pick up after their pet, have them wear diapers and to keep them on a leash or in their strollers to ensure everyone’s safety.
Currently available in select malls like Ayala, SM Hypermarket, and Eastwood Cyber and Fashion Mall–our pet-friendly policy fosters a sense of community among pet lovers. Engage with fellow pet owners, swap stories, share tips, and forge new friendships, all while celebrating our mutual love for our furry companions.1xx
Furbaby Fridays Feature Snap a pic of your furbaby in our store and tag us! Your pet could be featured on our official Facebook page for Furbaby Fridays! It’s a fun way to show off your furry friend and join our pet-loving community.
Bonding Time Shopping at MR.DIY with your pet isn’t just convenient—it’s a bonding experience. Whether you’re picking out journals, garden plants, or DIY supplies, having your pet by your side makes every trip more enjoyable. For your pets, it’s a sensory adventure filled with new sights and smells to explore.
Shop and Chill to Win Fun Prizes!
But wait, there’s more! Dive into our Shop and Chill promo to get a chance to win fun prizes by following these easy steps:
Shop: Spend a minimum of PHP 500, including any of the participating items from our Sizzling Summer Sale. Scan: Use your smartphone to scan the QR code provided in-store. Fill Out: Complete the online entry form with your details. Upload: Snap a photo of your receipt and upload it with your submission.
Chill and enjoy shopping at MR.DIY and make it even more exciting by joining the Shop and Chill Raffle Promo!
For additional details about MR.DIY’s Shop and Chill promo, stop by any of MR.DIY’s 564 participating stores.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on the promotion by visiting MR.DIY’s official website at http://www.mrdiy.com/ph and following our social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
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About MR.DIY MR D.I.Y. is the largest home improvement retailer with more than 2,000 stores across Southeast Asia including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Philippines, Cambodia, India, and Europe in Turkey and Spain. The home improvement retailer has dedicated itself to making a positive difference in the lives of its valued customers by offering convenience at all its stores nationwide.
All MR. D.I.Y. stores are managed directly and the company often works in collaboration with other mass merchandise retailers or owners of malls or shopfront properties. MR. D.I.Y. stores offer a wide selection of — approximately 18,000 SKUs — across 5 major categories, namely hardware; household and furnishing; electrical; stationery and sports equipment products; and others (comprising amongst others toys, car accessories, jewelry, and cosmetics). The company strives to put customers first by operating an innovative business that is flexible when it comes to providing a wide variety of products, good quality, and value-for-money, holding true to the Company’s motto of “ALWAYS LOW PRICES”.Visit http://www.mrdiy.com/ph/ for more details.
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Congratulations to HONOR Philippines on the grand opening of the new HONOR Experience Store at SM San Lazaro and the successful first day sale of the HONOR Magic6 Pro! This milestone marks a significant step in bringing cutting-edge technology and unparalleled customer service closer to our valued customers.
The HONOR Experience Store offers an immersive environment where you can explore the latest innovations and products from HONOR. We invite everyone to visit and experience firsthand the exceptional performance and features of the HONOR Magic6 Pro.
USANA PH Receives Gold Label for Most Trusted Natural Food Supplements at the 2024 Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards
Cherry Ampig, General Manager of USANA Philippines receiving the Gold Label Award for the Most Trusted Natural Food Supplements from Sheron White, Retail and Advertising Sales Director for the Reader’s Digest Asia-Pacific at the 2024 Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards.
MANILA, May 10, 2024 – USANA Philippines, a global leader in the health industry, recently received the Gold Label for the Most Trusted Natural Food Supplements at the 2024 Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards. The valued recognition, awarded during the 26th Annual Most Trusted Brand survey, demonstrates USANA’s commitment to providing premium quality-based nutritional products which exemplifies consumer trust, not just in the Philippines but all over the world.
The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards celebrate brands that have consistently captured consumer confidence in the Philippine market. USANA was recognized among the group of esteemed brands for its dedication to delivering excellence and reliability in the natural food supplements category.
Commenting on this achievement, Cherry Ampig, General Manager of USANA Philippines, expressed gratitude and reiterated their commitment to empowering health and wellness, “We are deeply honored to receive the Gold Label for Most Trusted Natural Food Supplements from Reader’s Digest. This serves as a testament to USANA’s dedication to providing science-based nutritional products providing science-based quality nutritional products.”
USANA Philippines honored with the prestigious Gold Award.
Ampig also emphasized USANA’s unwavering dedication to consumer trust and satisfaction, stating, “At USANA, we prioritize the well-being of our customers above all else. This award not only reaffirms the trust our consumers place in our products but also inspires us to continue innovating and delivering formulated nutritional products that maintain well-being.”
The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Awards are renowned for their rigorous selection process and esteemed reputation, making them a coveted accolade among businesses across various industries. USANA’s award reaffirms its position in the health and wellness sector, trusted by consumers worldwide.
Celebrating its 15th year in the Philippines, USANA is dedicated to empowering its users to live a healthy life through its range of quality nutritional supplements, skincare products, and personal care items. As the company continues to prioritize innovation and consumer trust, it remains committed to its aim of helping individuals live healthy, happy lives.
MANILA, May 2024 – DKT Philippines Foundation, a charitable non-profit organization promoting family planning and HIV prevention, officially launched the SODEX (Service Outreach and Distribution Extension Program) Mobile Clinic – the country’s first-ever family planning ambulatory clinic. This pioneering effort aims to provide safe and accessible modern family planning methods for Filipinos in far-flung areas to bridge the gap between Filipinos wanting to space and limit pregnancy and the disparities in Family Planning service provision.The SODEX Mobile Clinic is an innovation to improve DKT Philippines Foundation’s SODEX Program and its contribution to achieving the DOH 8-Point Action Agenda and National Objectives for Health.
DKT Philippines Foundation, Inc. officially launches the country’s first-ever Family Planning Ambulatory Clinic.
The SODEX Mobile Clinic offers free Family Planning services.
“DKT Philippines Foundation’s mission is to provide couples with affordable, and safe options for family planning, and HIV/AIDS prevention through dynamic social marketing,” said Loida Almendares, the Foundation’s Director of Programs. “The SODEX mobile clinic will provide a wide array of free family planning services especially in areas with lesser access to services like the geographically isolated or socially disadvantaged areas. The mobile clinic will bring the services closer to the people and meet them where they are,” she added.
The mobile clinic will provide free Family Planning commodities such as pills, condoms, injectables and intrauterine devices (IUD). It will also offer free bilateral tubal ligation (BTL) using local anesthesia and non-scalpel vasectomy (NSV). Onboarding the clinic are Physician/Surgeon trained on the provision of BTL, NSV, IUD, and subdermal implant services; FP-trained nurse; FP- trained midwife; a circulating staff, and a driver. To ensure that all clients are well-informed and fit to take the services, they will undergo counseling and final screening prior to getting the method.
In partnership with 30 LGUs from Luzon, DKT Philippines Foundation aims to foster sustainable and long-term partnerships with these LGUs to cultivate Filipinos’ desire to meaningfully participate and contribute to government efforts to achieve universal health coverage for all.
“DKT Philippines Foundation and its Family Planning Mobile Clinic reinforce DKT’s commitment to ensuring nobody is left behind and provides free and quality reproductive health options including permanent methods, to those most remote and vulnerable communities. Made possible by the sales of family planning products under the TRUST Reproductive Health Choices brand, the mobile clinic ensures that people who still cannot afford the highly affordable TRUST products, or cannot access the reproductive health services they need in the public sector, are not left behind and still have free access to these services. It is a part of a total market approach, complementing the important work the local LGUs do on a daily basis.” said Denise van Dijk, Chair of the Board of DKT Philippines Foundation.
The mobile clinic will travel for 119 days to offer free services in the provinces of Central Luzon, North Luzon, Cordillera, MIMAROPA and CALABARZON with the first stop being at Binangonan, Rizal where the launch took place. The clinic will stay in one area for a day or two from 8 AM to 6 PM. By next year, the mobile clinic will cover communities in the Visayas and Mindanao areas.
The launch and blessing event was officially attended by fellow reproductive health advocates in public and private sectors, development partners, and family planning clients. Guest of honor and speaker was Department of Health Undersecretary Dr. Glenn Mathew Baggao with special participation of the Mayor of Binangonan, Rizal – Hon. Cesar M. Ynares.
Dr. Glenn Mathew Baggao, Department of Health Undersecretary and Cluster Lead of Public Health Services Cluster delivers a key message.
DKT Philippines Foundation, Inc.’s Chair of the Board Denise van Dijk delivers a message.
Hon. Cesar M. Ynares officially starts the program with a message.
The programs and free services of DKT Philippines Foundation are made possible by the country’s leading brand of contraceptives TRUST Reproductive Health Choices, which is carried by the social enterprise DKT Health, Inc. [END]
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SM Prime invests in future sustainability leaders with scholarship program
Future sustainability leaders. Strengthening its commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship, SM Prime welcomes ten scholars from UPLB, who are taking up degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry.
Inspired by the late Henry Sy Sr.’s belief in the power of education and driven by their commitment to sustainability, leading integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) has launched a scholarship program in partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).
Aptly called the “SM Sustainability Scholarship,” the initiative reflects SM Prime’s commitment to both educational access and sustainability stewardship.
Video courtesy of SM Prime
The program will fully support ten deserving students through their undergraduate studies at UPLB, providing them with the opportunity to pursue degrees in either Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology or Bachelor of Science in Forestry. These fields align with SM Prime’s focus on building resilient communities and fostering a sustainable future.
The scholarship recipients, meticulously chosen for their academic excellence and dedication to sustainability, were formally recognized during a meet-and-greet gathering at UPLB, marking the start of their journey as SM Sustainability Scholars.
SM Sustainability Scholarship. In the photo are the SM sustainability scholars with the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ Office of Scholarships and Grants Director Assoc. Prof. Ariel L. Babierra, Ph.D., College of Forestry and Natural Resources’s Prof. Marilyn Combalicer, College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr, Janette Malata-Silva, Scholarship Affairs Officer Ivy Salarde and SM Prime AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo with the rest of the SM team.
Each scholar will receive a full scholarship covering tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, and a book allowance, ensuring they can focus on their studies without financial worries.
During the gathering, College of Human Ecology (CHE) Dean Dr. Jennifer Amparo expressed that the pursuit of sustainability is most effectively undertaken collaboratively.
“CHE is one of the colleges that puts a premium on interdisciplinarity and trans-disciplinarity because we believe that in sustainability, you don’t work in silos. We need to work together and build each other’s skills, know-how, and also our programs together to ensure sustainability,” she said.
“I would also like to thank SM Prime for putting emphasis on this scholarship. SM Prime did not just provide the finances or scholarship. They invested the time to really meet our scholars and provided other support mechanisms to ensure that our scholars thrive in their academic lives. This is also a manifestation of SM’s commitment to sustainability by really developing our future sustainability leaders,” she added.
College of Forestry and Natural Resources’ Prof. Marilyn Combalicer also extended the college’s support to the scholars on behalf of the college’s dean, Dr. Marlo Mendoza: “We hope to continue nurturing such meaningful collaboration and initiatives that enhance our educational experience and initiatives for our students. Rest assured that we will continue providing support to our students in ensuring their growth and success in both academia and beyond.”
SM Prime’s AVP Rida Reyes-Castillo meets the SM sustainability scholars.
Meanwhile, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR and Corporate Communications, Rida Reyes-Castillo, echoed that the fundamental values of the company are intricately interwoven with both education and sustainability.
“SM Group’s founder, Mr. Henry “Tatang” Sy, Sr. believed that education is a great equalizer, and he envisioned that sending one child to college would create ripples of social good not just for families but for an entire community,” she said. “The improvement of the well-being of the youth and the partner communities is something that we at SM invest in.”
For decades, the SM group has embraced the responsibility to contribute to nation building through social good programs that are geared towards quality education, sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and disaster response. By helping improve the quality of life of the people in these host communities, social development and investment go hand in hand with business growth to achieve a better future for all.
This is a paid partnership with SM Prime Holdings.
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Jayson and Juanito proudly showcase a selection of produce at the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market.
While modern agricultural techniques boost yields for some, there remains a number of Filipino farmers who struggle to keep pace. These experienced hands find themselves falling behind in a market demanding higher production, clinging to familiar yet often inefficient methods passed down through generations.
One farmer from Pampanga, Jayson Garcia, sought to disrupt this prevailing narrative in his family. He knew that he had to chart a new course forward for his farm and innovate to remain competitive within the rapidly evolving landscape of modern agriculture.
“Noon, mahirap ang magtanim,” he recalled their life before joining SM Foundation’s Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan. “Para bang tsambahan, basta pag itinanim mo ‘yan, hintayin mo na lang mamunga. Mas mahirap pa lalo kapag nagkaroon ng kalamidad,” he added.
SM Foundation’s training program focused on high-value crop cultivation was the breakthrough Garcia needed to revitalize his farming techniques. These included selecting the best seeds and caring for them as well as strategic planting schedules.
Jayson attends the SM City Clark’s Weekend Market to observe best practices and gain insights into new agricultural techniques.
The livelihood program also gave way for him to discover alternative sales channels that enhanced his earning potential while extending fair prices to his customers. The knowledge and confidence he gained led him to expand his farm, and in effect, increased his monthly income to more than Php25,000.
Aside from directly selling his harvests, he is now planting a variety of vegetables–on his farm, including lemongrass, malunggay, and madre de cacao, which he sells online to small businesses that process the produce into other products.
Embracing new techniques
Sharing the same story of hope is another KSK farmer from Pampanga, Juanito Dela Cruz. Despite his age, he actively pursued and adopted modern farming techniques. Building on his current success, he shared the importance of adaptability for farmers, calling for others to try and explore new practices.
From a modest monthly income of Php10,000, Juanito experienced an upsurge in his earnings, notably through participation in the Weekend Market at SM City Clark, yielding around Php30,000 weekly. “Kailangan maging bukas tayo sa makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsasaka para makahabol tayo sa demands ng panahon ngayon—ito ang itinuo sa akin ng SM Foundation-KSK,” he said.
Juanito, alongside his wife, actively participates in the SM City Clark Weekend Market. They credit the market with contributing to their increased profitability.
The SM Group’s KSK program has changed the lives of roughly 30,000 Filipino farmers, including Jayson and Juanito. Through its initiatives, farmers who once lost hope have been able to embrace modern farming techniques, leading to adaptability in the face of the evolving agricultural landscape.
The SM Group, through SM Foundation, remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading social good. This dedication extends to SM’s forthcoming endeavors to be led by its future smart city property development – with focus on enhancing positive social impact in the communities where SM operates. ###
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