Ballet Manila launches the PRIMA Performance Season with the iconic fairy tale classic Sleeping Beauty, revitalized by the kiss of true love

“What excites me in this production is how Sleeping Beauty finally completes our Princess Trilogy. It feels like all the stories we’ve been telling are coming together in one magical universe. In this iteration of Sleeping Beauty, Aurora will be joined by Cinderella and Snow White on stage, so it’s really fun to think about having them together in the stage. It is such a delight that we are performing with the Manila Symphony Orchestra, playing the original music of Tchaikovsky makes it even more special and I look forward to sharing this with everyone.” ~Lisa Macuja Elizalde, CEO and Artistic Director of Ballet Manila

A nation waits, a princess sleeps, and a curse persists until love prevails. Ballet Manila's PRIMA Performance Season will begin in March with Sleeping Beauty, the final piece of the Princess Trilogy Series. 8:00 p.m. on March 13. and viewers can witness Aurora's transition from enchantment to wakefulness on March 14 and 15 at 5:00 p.m. in the Aliw Theater in Pasay City. Every concert will include the Manila Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Alexander Vikulov.

Through dance, Ballet Manila's version brings the stories of fairy-tale princesses that have been passed down through the ages to life. With every step and turn, the company has imitated the elegance, innocence, and kindness of the beloved princesses. The CEO and Artistic Director of Ballet Manila, Lisa Macuja Elizalde, will lead and choreograph this season's Sleeping Beauty.

Lisa sees the end of Sleeping Beauty as a happy time and is delighted by the other princesses' special appearances. Additionally, the Princess Trilogy ends at a pivotal point. The Manila Symphony Orchestra, which is quietly celebrating its centennial, serves as a reminder of the cooperative role that music and dance have played in shaping Philippine culture.

Maan Hontiveros, head of the Manila Symphony Orchestra, believes this milestone serves as a reminder that music nurtures the soul and leaves a lasting legacy when paired with ballet.

Since 2011, Ballet Manila and the Manila Symphony Orchestra have collaborated, yet their support for one another has never diminished.

“Lisa has been a steadfast supporter of the orchestra, and her vision has helped bring this partnership to life in ways that honor both tradition and innovation. Lisa has always been in the life of Manila Symphony Orchestra. While there was a hiatus during the pandemic, it was very timely that we’re back doing a joint performance once again as we celebrate our 100th year. We’re grateful to Lisa and Fred (Elizalde) who are ever-present in our performances.” ~Maan Hontiveros, Manila Symphony Orchestra President

The Princess Trilogy climax with Sleeping Beauty not only wraps up Ballet Manila's massive story arc but also honors the collaboration between live music and ballet. Viewers are encouraged to see how ballet and orchestra collaborate to continue using timeless talent to shape the Philippine cultural stage when the curtain lowers.

Keep up-to-date with Ballet Manila’s schedule of performances and celebration events by visiting Ballet Manila’s website www.balletmanila.com.ph or Ticketworld page www.ticketworld.com.ph.

GlutaMAX launches the "Body PUTItivity" campaign to improve brand positioning

"This event marks the official relaunch of Gluta MAX. It is about clarifying who we are today and what we stand for moving forward. For 18 years, GlutaMAX has been a trusted name in skin brightening in the Philippines. Today, we are strengthening our voice. We are refining our message." ~Ms. Aiza Diuco-Sun, Executive Director for Strategy and Marketing of HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc.,

After eighteen years in the Philippine market, GlutaMAX has unveiled a new brand direction with the launch of its latest campaign, Body Putitivity, which reframes skin lightening as an act of personal agency rather than a response to mandated beauty standards. 

The company's executives saw the rebranding as a strategic change that aligns with the evolving nature of beauty debates and how customers now define empowerment on their own terms. Essentially, Body Putitivity affirms that choosing more radiant or even-looking skin can be a valid kind of self-care. By emphasizing that these decisions are personal rather than benchmarks, it empowers those who are confident in their decision to improve their skin.

A repositioning shaped by changing conversations

The relaunch is about conviction and clarity, according to Aiza Diuco-Sun, Executive Director for Strategy and HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc.'s marketing, in her keynote address.

The recalibration coincides with more complicated discussions about diversity, autonomy, and representation that beauty companies must deal with. Gluta MAX is choosing to engage in these conversations rather than sidestep them, portraying brightness as a choice rather than a requirement.

An ambassador who embodies the message

One of the highlights of the relaunch was the introduction of Vanessa Tse Wing as the Brand's Newest Ambassador. Tse Wing has been using GlutaMAX for ten years and has a varied history as a scholar, public official, and former national titleholder. In her testimonial, she explained that confidence is shaped by growth and purpose.

"As a title holder, as a student, and now as a public servant, I've learned that confidence isn't about meeting expectations. It's about owning your decisions." ~Vanessa Tse Wing, GlutaMAX Brand Ambassador

The campaign's tenet—that self-care becomes a sign of respect for oneself when it is intentional—was mirrored in her comment. Notably, the brand abandoned traditional "before and after" motifs in favor of narratives about personal comfort and self-assurance.

Beyond messaging: reinforcing the system

During the launch, GlutaMAX unveiled its official jingle and campaign photos. encouraging concepts of inclusion and self-determination. The business also demonstrated its Gluta MAX system and NanoWhite Technology.

Formulation is to be used as part of a routine self-care routine for protection and whitening. Participants reported that the advertisement had a deliberate tone, particularly in the manner it addressed a subject that is still sensitive in public discourse. Discussions throughout the event demonstrated a shared understanding: tolerance for the diversity of skincare choices is crucial to the conversation about modern beauty.

A timely message for a shifting market

Body Putitivity is more than just a relaunch; it is released during a period when consumers are actively redefining what empowerment means. The campaign's focus on living in harmony by embracing one's natural tone and choosing to Brighten can be a declaration of self-assurance and deliberate awareness of shifting expectations.

GlutaMAX's emphasis on personal taste over prescription is considerate and forward-thinking in an environment where conversations on skin tone may quickly turn contentious. By acknowledging a range of tastes without reducing any, the company increases its relevance while maintaining its core identity. If early responses are any indication, body putitivity may last beyond a single campaign cycle. It provides a framework for heritage beauty companies to continue being culturally sensitive while preserving their competitive advantages.

Fundamentally, the message is simple: freedom of choice is a part of confidence, which is self-defined.

DENR recognizes Ajinomoto for their environmental stewardship and sustainability efforts

In photo are Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) Chief Sustainability Officer Ernesto Carlos (middle); flanked by (L-R) DENR Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla, President of Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) Jess Reyes; and DENR OIC Assistant Secretary for Environment and Concurrent Director of the Environmental Management Bureau Jacqueline Caancan.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) was awarded a Special Citation for Obliged Enterprises under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) 2026 Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Recognition Program: Celebrating Achievements and Milestones.

At the core of this success is APC's SariCycle® initiative, a creative and flexible approach to collecting plastic waste that empowers local micro-entrepreneurs, including owners of Sari-Sari stores, to take the lead in the community's efforts to reduce plastic waste and pollution. This program promotes small businesses to become environmental change agents by collaborating to supply recycling facilities with better feedstock or materials that are clean, sorted, and better suited for processing.

APC works closely with approved partners like as Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST) and the Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (QC CCESD) to support this program. Through these collaborations, APC demonstrates its steadfast dedication to sustainability by implementing inclusive, cooperative, and significant projects. 

The DENR's award validates APC's goal as an FMCG company of incorporating sustainability into the core of their operations and empowering communities to take action alongside the company. The prize serves as a reminder that when businesses and communities work together, sustainability becomes a shared achievement rather than just an objective.

APC's 2030 Roadmap, which seeks to increase the healthy life expectancy of one billion people while significantly decreasing its environmental impact by fifty percent, is further strengthened by this acknowledgment. 

In addition to promoting regulatory compliance, APC claims that sustainability fosters stronger local economies, empowered microbusinesses, and healthier environments. The company also sets the standard for moral business conduct in the country by demonstrating that corporate leadership and national progress can coexist.

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

 

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

 

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com. 

Cebu Pacific Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Piso Sale

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the leading airline in the Philippines, is commemorating its 30th anniversary by reviving its renowned Piso sale, which offers consumers additional opportunities to buy inexpensive tickets.

Seat Sale Period: March 5 to 11, 2026

Price: PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges

Travel Period: November 1 – March 31, 2027

Flights to Iloilo, Bacolod, Cebu, and other nearby locations are available. Whether you're searching for a quick city getaway, a gourmet adventure, or an island holiday, these sites provide quick access to some of the country's popular recreational regions.

Travelers can travel internationally to Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand by using CEB's primary hubs, which are situated around the Philippines. From shopping and seeing other towns to visiting temples and indulging in local specialties, these locations—as well as many more within CEB's global network—offer plenty to look forward to.

Additionally, for the entire month of March, travelers can buy flights to specific cities for as little as PHP 30 one-way base tickets, without fees and surcharges. The period of this campaign is April 1–November 30, 2026.

CEB operated its inaugural flight from Manila to Cebu on March 8, 1996. Since then, the airline has carried over 250 million passengers throughout its greatest domestic and international network, continuing to offer accessible and affordable flights.

At the moment, CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international sites in Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.  

Travelers can save money on seat selection and baggage check-in by using Go Easy while making reservations. Pre-ordered meals that can be bought online include Pinoy Spaghetti, Grilled Chicken Wrap, and Beef Adobo.

CEB allows a variety of payment methods, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, for booking flights and buying extras.

Visit www.cebupacificair.com or book directly via the Cebu Pacific app to secure your seats now.

Cebu Pacific's Social Media Accounts:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cebupacificairphilippines

X: https://twitter.com/CebuPacificAir

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cebupacificair

Anne Hathaway’s eerie pop thriller ‘Mother Mary’ arrives in Philippine cinemas this April

“Whether you are a fan of elevated genres or you simply want to have a good time watching a movie, CreaZion Studios got you covered with an exciting lineup of film offerings that can be enjoyed on the best screen and great surround sound possible, in cinemas near you. By bringing in the most disruptive and talked-about films to the country and Southeast Asian (SEA) region, CreaZion Studios hopes to bridge human stories and experiences to this side of the world.” ~RJ San Agustin, President & CEO of CreaZion Studios

The revelation comes at the same time as the official Philippine trailer  and poster for Anne Hathaway's pop psychological thriller Mother Mary, which will be published exclusively by CreaZion Studios and debut in Philippine theaters on April 22, 2026.

Hathaway (Interstellar, The Devil Wears Prada) stuns as the titular global pop icon in this new, ambitious film produced by A24. The full synopsis goes: “Long-buried wounds rise to the surface when iconic pop star Mother Mary reunites with her estranged best friend and former costume designer Sam Anselm (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’s Michaela Coel) on the eve of her comeback performance.” The film makes the viewers curious - how much of your soul are you willing to lose for fame and vanity?

Mother Mary was written and filmed by David Lowery (The Green Knight, A Ghost Story). In the context of an unlikely reunion between former friends, the filmmaker takes audiences on a musical journey while examining the eerie impact of long-lost, powerful ties. Charli XCX, FKA Twigs, who also appears in "Mother Mary," and Jack Antonoff composed the film's original soundtrack.

The tracks "Burial" by Hathaway and "My Mouth is Lonely For You" by Twigs are slated for release in March. In April, Hathaway's music streaming platforms will offer seven tracks from the film's digital soundtrack.

Mother Mary also showcases an impressive cast that includes Hunter Schafer (Euphoria, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes), Kaia Gerber (Babylon, Shell) and FKA Twigs.

#KwentoMoTo: Bringing Human Stories & Experiences

MOTHER MARY in Philippine cinemas April 22, 2026

Mother Mary is the second A24 title CreaZion Studios is bringing to Filipino audiences this year. It has recently announced BACKROOMS with a Philippine release date on June 3. The acquisition of these highly-anticipated films is part of the company’s #KwentoMoTo mission to make “Human Stories and Human Experiences” accessible to Filipino and Southeast Asian audiences. 

Last year, CreaZion Studios successfully brought to the domestic and SEA markets the critically-acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan Wook’s No Other Choice and A24 fantasy adventure film The Legend of Ochi; and in 2024, the award-winning body horror film The Substance. 

For more updates, follow CreaZion Studios on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube and visit creazionstudios.com. Join the conversation online with hashtag #MotherMaryPH.

Enchanted Kingdom's COO swears in as president of the Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

“We are committed to focus on Livelihood and labor concerns, Corporate sustainability, Community empowerment, and Innovation with integrity. These four principles support Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) South Luzon’s guiding principles as presented by AVP Hoover Picar, namely Volunteerism, Excellence, Service, and Integrity (VESI). Through these, we look forward to transforming the lives of the people working for our companies and the communities we serve.” ~Mrs. Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., Chief Operating Officer Enchanted Kingdom 

Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, continues to be one of the top advocates for local industry development with the recent appointment of its chief operating officer, Mrs. Cynthia R. Mamon, Ph.D., as president of the PCCI-Laguna Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (LCCI).

The newly elected LCCI officers were inducted on February 16 at Enchanted Kingdom in Santa Rosa, Laguna, by Area Vice President Hoover Picar and Regional Governor Mary Ann Katigbak.

LCCI is commemorating its 50th anniversary as a non-stock, non-profit, non-governmental organization. It is composed of Laguna's small, medium, and large firms that are dedicated to fostering the growth, resilience, and competitiveness of the province's business community as well as a more resilient and sustainable local economy.

Present during the induction ceremony were Department of Labor and Employment – National Conciliation and Mediation Board IV-A Director Cynthia Foncardas, Laguna Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (LEPIDO) Laguna Head Fatima Villaseñor, PCCI Los Baños President Grace Bondad Nicolas, PCCI Quezon City President Anne Marie Francisco, and PCCI Lipa City President Marites Jumarang. They were joined by past presidents of LCCI namely Atty. Rose Lynn Zara-Coloma, Marvin Adolfo, Virgilio Lorenzo, Richard Albert Osmond, and EK’s President and Chairman Mr. Cesar Mario O. Mamon.

An economic briefing by Prof. Ronilo Balbieran, economist at the University of Asia and the Pacific followed after the induction ceremony.

Even prior to this, EK has been a longstanding active member of LCCI, as Mr. Mamon also served as its president from 2006 to 2007.

Championing Tourism

Mrs. Mamon was also reelected as president of the Laguna Tourism Council (LTC), taking the oath of office among the other newly elected LTC officers on January 22 in Santa Cruz, Laguna, administered by Governor Sol Aragones.

LTC is a provincial multi-sectoral body made up of representatives from various government and business organizations, and it is one of the primary movers behind Laguna's development as a major tourism destination in the Philippines.

In order to promote tourism, culture, heritage, and the arts to both domestic and foreign audiences, LTC has been working closely with the Laguna province government, as well as other municipal offices and non-governmental groups across the country, since Dr. Mamon assumed the role in 2023.

Additionally, LTC provides places for Laguna-based micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their superior products and crafts through a variety of events and partnerships that take place both within and outside the province.

For more information and updates regarding these and EK’s initiatives towards industry growth, sustainability, and tourism, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts on Facebook and TikTok, and on Instagram.

The new eco-friendly Debit Mastercard from BPI is composed entirely of recyclable materials

“Reimagining the BPI Debit Mastercard to become an eco-friendly card is a testament to BPI’s commitment to its values of sustainability and innovation. At BPI, we want to connect more with our eco-conscious clients while also encouraging others to practice sustainable habits. By using sustainable materials for our card, we hope to make sustainable behavior the default option for everyone. The BPI Debit Mastercard is still the same card that our clients rely on—stylish, secure, and now more sustainable.” ~Jenny Lacerna, Head of Mass Retail, BPI

BPI launches its new Debit Mastercard made from 100% recycled, PVC free plastic—promoting more sustainable everyday banking.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has launched a new Debit Mastercard that is completely composed of recycled, PVC-free plastic in an attempt to encourage more ecologically friendly banking solutions. 

The new Debit Mastercard is free for both new customers who open an account through a BPI branch and existing customers whose cards need to be updated or are about to expire. Customers who wish to convert to the new recycled, PVC-free card outside of their renewal schedule can do so for a standard replacement fee of Php 200.

BPI is one of the leading debit card issuers in the country, with over 8.2 million cardholders nationwide. With the launch of the new eco-friendly BPI Debit Mastercard, the bank's efforts to provide Filipinos more responsible and future-ready financial products have hit yet another noteworthy milestone.

Customers can choose their preferred branch for pickup after requesting a new card online or using the BPI app. There is a fee of Php 200 for each card request made via these digital channels. To start the replacement process, those who are replacing an existing card simply need to block their current one via the BPI app. Depending on the location, cards can be picked up at any BPI branch in two to six banking days. Additionally, clients can receive help at any of our branches.

Beyond sustainability, the card features thoughtful design enhancements like a curved notch in the bottom left corner that increases accessibility and sets it apart from other cards by making it easier for users to identify and orient their card by touch.

BPI Debit Mastercard holders can still benefit from contactless transactions, safe online, in-store, and international payments, easy access to cash via ATMs worldwide, and 24/7 account management through the BPI app with the new card.

Through innovations like the eco-friendly Debit Mastercard, BPI continues to support sustainability while offering Filipinos practical, inclusive, and accessible financial products.