Colgate, Philippine Dental Association bring Bright Smiles this National Dental Health Month

“Partnering with the Philippine Dental Association to celebrate National Dental Health Month is aligned with our mission to empower more children to take charge of their own dental health as this improves their overall well-being as they grow older. Today’s celebration is the right avenue for Colgate to provide free dental check-ups at the Mall of Asia Music Hall and gift complimentary dental kits to everyone in attendance as we are keen on continuing to support initiatives for the benefit of Filipino children. Kicking off the launch of National Dental Health Month led by the Philippine Dental Association emulates our commitment to help achieve a zero-cavity future by encouraging Filipinos to prioritize their oral health. We want to end the silent health crisis of cavities in children in the country. Our Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® program targets Filipino children in an effort to help keep them present in school and help reduce absenteeism caused by toothaches and cavities.” ~Nica Marquez Whang, Director of Marketing Oral Care, Colgate Palmolive Philippines Inc.

Colgate, the leading oral health brand in the Philippines, collaborates with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) to mark the commencement of the 20th Annual National Dental Health Month (NDHM) on January 28, 2024, at the Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The PDA-led National Dental Health Month is a yearly initiative aimed at encouraging dental professionals, students, relevant government agencies, and professional organizations to extend their services to individuals with limited access to dental care, particularly those residing in rural areas. Originally established as National Dental Health Week in 1951, this annual event was expanded to a month-long celebration in 2004.

Pictured: Dr. Fernando Fernandez - Speaker, PDA House of Delegates, Ms. Nica Marquez Whang - Director of Marketing Oral Care, Colgate Palmolive Philippines Inc., Dr. Emmanuel T. Centeno - President of the Philippine Dental Association,  and Dr. Alvin Laxamana - Chairman of NDHM Bente 2024, alongside representatives from Colgate Philippines and the Philippine Dental Association.

Addressing the launch ceremony, Secretary Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa stressed the significance of prioritizing oral health among Filipinos, highlighting its crucial role in overall well-being and the creation of a dynamic and flourishing nation. Present at the event were Dr. Enrique A. Tayag from the USEC Department of Health and Joey Calixto Isidro, Acting Vice Mayor of Pasay City, both unwavering in their dedication to endorsing health initiatives that contribute to the progress and advancement of Filipino children.

Colgate offering free dental check-ups to attendees at the Mall of Asia Music Hall on January 28. 2024. 

Now in its 20th year, National Dental Health Month places special emphasis on the "Isang Milyong Sipilyo, Angat Ngiting Pilipino” program. A testament to Colgate Philippines being a strong partner of this program is its commitment to supply at least one million elementary school students nationwide with free oral care kits containing a toothbrush and toothpaste and to provide appropriate oral health education. On February 5, National Tooth Brushing Day, all 127 dental chapters of the PDA will participate in a simultaneous toothbrushing event, kicking off the program's Luzon leg.

Bright Smiles, Bright Futures®

Pictured: Children at the event received free oral care kits courtesy of Colgate Philippines.

Colgate aligns its mission with that of the PDA through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures® Program, also known as the BSBF program. This initiative represents Colgate's enduring dedication to combatting cavities. Since its inception in 1991, the BSBF program has positively impacted around 1.7 billion children and families across over 80 countries. In the Philippines, the BSBF program has reached over 40 million schoolchildren over the past 25 years. Since 1997, it has extended its reach to 37,000 public schools and 700 childcare facilities in 319 cities and municipalities.

Colgate-Palmolive Philippines Inc. and the Philippine Dental Association share a strong conviction that every Filipino should not only have a radiant smile but also a promising future. Join us in commemorating the genuine impact of Filipino smiles! Keep an eye out for engaging activities and updates during National Dental Health Month as we collaborate to create more radiant smiles and brighter futures for everyone.

About Colgate 

Colgate Philippines has been dedicated to ensuring Filipino families have a bright future they can smile about for more than nine decades. As the undisputed leader in oral care, Colgate’s commitment goes beyond just products. Driven by an unwavering dedication to sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and innovation, Colgate continually strives to elevate the lives of their consumers, leading them towards a future they can smile about.

SM & ASP Champion Change for an #AutismOKPH Future

330 strong advocates, friends, and changemakers came together to celebrate, learn, and build an inclusive Philippines for all.

During National Autism Consciousness Week, the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) and SM Cares, in collaboration with the National Council on Disability Affairs, marked the occasion with AOK Pilipinas Live 2024. This live special edition of the monthly web show delved into crucial discussions on autism-related topics.

The forum was held on January 26, Friday, at SM City North EDSA.

ASP Board, SM Cares, Government Officials, and Autism Advocates came together at AOK Pilipinas Live! to dismantle barriers and build a brighter future for Filipinos on the spectrum.

The first part of the program saw a panel discussion about making laws for an Autism OK Philippines. It was attended by Philippine Government Officials: Hon. Risa Hontiveros, Senator; Hon. Koko Pimentel, Senator; and Hon. Paul Daza, Congressman

In the second part, Actress / Screenwriter Candy Pangilinan was joined by actress Gladys Reyes, singer-songwriter from the band Splendio Tritus Nicolle Ferrer, and former Bb. Pilipinas World Janina San Miguel to talk about the importance of family in fostering awareness and education for people with autism.

SM Cares Program Director for Disability Affairs Engr. Bien Mateo emphasized SM's commitment to giving equal access and opportunities for individuals with diverse needs, including those on the autism spectrum.

SM demonstrates unwavering support for the autism community, as evidenced by its collaboration with ASP. This partnership is a component of an enduring initiative to create secure environments and guarantee the accessibility of its mall facilities to everyone. In addition to organizing Sensitivity Training for its frontline staff, SM will also contribute to the upcoming Angels Walk for Autism event in April, further reinforcing its commitment to supporting Autism Society Philippines.

DITO Telecommunity Lights Up Dinagyang Festival with Fun Contests and Exciting Activities

"DITO is dedicated to upholding and enhancing the enjoyment of cultural festivities such as the Dinagyang Festival. Through our unique approach, we hope our TODO NA DITO sa Dinagyang activities served as a unifying force, bringing Filipinos closer together in the spirit of shared joy and celebration." ~Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity Chief Commercial Officer

DITO Telecommunity's TODO NA DITO sa Dinagyang events transformed Iloilo City into a lively hub of excitement and connectivity during the Dinagyang Festival 2024. Dedicated to enhancing connectivity and fostering dynamic telecommunities nationwide, DITO not only heightened the celebratory atmosphere at Iloilo's significant religious and cultural event but also provided enjoyable platforms for Filipinos to interact and connect.

The celebration at Delgado Street, marked by lively concert performances, vibrant parades, thrilling competitions, and delightful gastronomic activities, generated an enthusiastic and positive response from DITOzens in Iloilo.

In the TODO Gaming competition, the spotlight was on MARTIAL MAYHEM, who claimed the championship, with SUE Legions securing the 1st Runner-Up position. Impressive gaming skills were showcased by semi-finalists Misaki Esports and Red Esports. Meanwhile, the TODO Kantahan contest added musical harmony to the festivities, with Faith Pinedes being crowned the Grand Champion. Ernesto Mendiola, Carl Malone, and Shine Vibar secured the 1st to 3rd Runner-Up positions, respectively. As for the TODO Sayawan competition, Project One dominated the dance floor as Grand Champions, while Fresh Hoodz and Creptnusty secured the 1st and 2nd Runner-Up positions, respectively.

DITO Telecommunity curated a distinctive festival experience by introducing interactive booths, enhancing the overall celebration. Festival attendees had the opportunity to explore the DITO Mobile FLEXPlan booth, where they gained insights into Mobile Postpaid FLEXPlans and savored complimentary cups of their preferred coffee beverages. The DITO Home booth showcased a creative 3D photo booth, capturing moments in an innovative and memorable manner. Those visiting the DITO Mobile booth engaged in thrilling online games, competing for exclusive DITO merchandise. The DITO Rewards booth heightened the excitement, enabling subscribers to redeem rewards and win limited edition merchandise.

During the culminating event, the acclaimed Filipino rock band Kamikazee energized Iloilo's grand festival, turning it into a lively rock and roll concert where the audience eagerly sang along to their popular songs like "Narda," "Huling Sayaw," and "Martyr Nyebera." Local DJs and bands also showcased impressive performances, contributing more to the vibrant celebrations. 

In addition to hosting enjoyable contests and interactive booths, DITO actively engaged in several festival activities as a major sponsor. The company supported the Ilomination Street Dance Competition, Float Parade of Lights, and Dinagyang Tribes Competition. Moreover, DITO sponsored the prestigious Ms. Iloilo Coronation Night. This grand event witnessed the crowning of Alexie Mae Caimoso Brooks as the inaugural Miss DITO Telecommunity, marking a significant moment in the company's vibrant involvement in the cultural celebration.

Top Lucky Foods you can find at SM Bulacan Malls

Celebrate Chinese New Year by indulging in traditional festive foods, each carrying symbolic significance for good luck. Whether it's enjoying sticky rice balls to foster togetherness or savoring a whole steamed fish for prosperity, discover a variety of auspicious dishes at SM malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan.

1. Dumplings

Chinese New Year wouldn’t be complete without the sumptuous dumplings available at DECS, located at SM Markets in SM Bulacan malls.

Dumplings are still at the top of the list. Usually associated with wealth, it has been a Chinese tradition that the more dumplings you eat during the New Year celebrations, the more money you can make.

Now, ready-made dumplings that you can conveniently enjoy anytime, anywhere are available at DECS, Hen Lin, and Pao Tsin, located at SM Markets in SM Bulacan malls.

2. Spring Rolls

Everyone’s favorite Lumpiang Shanghai, is a carrier of prosperity and is also associated with wealth. Try the extra meaty goodness of Lumpiang Shanghai at Max’s Restaurant in SM City Marilao.

In the Philippines, any gathering would not be complete without spring rolls—specifically, Lumpiang Shanghai. At any celebration, Filipinos love to have these on their tables because of their simple recipe.

For extra meaty goodness, Lumpiang Shanghai at Max’s Restaurant and Goldilocks at SM City Marilao are a must-try. This dish is a carrier of prosperity and is also associated with wealth because of its resemblance to gold bars.

3. Whole Fish

A serving of steamed whole fish is considered a good omen to having more money in the upcoming year. The Chinese character for fish is "yu,” which, when pronounced in modern Chinese, means abundance.

For a tasty platter of sweet and sour fish or steamed fish in light soy sauce, head on to SM Bulacan malls’ Kuya J, Gerry’s Grill, and Giligan’s Restaurant for a satisfying fix that you can enjoy for dine-in or to-go.

4. Noodles

Pancit Canton symbolizes long life this Chinese New Year. Enjoy this popular dish at Chowking in SM Bulacan malls.

The so-called longevity noodles are served not only at Chinese New Year celebrations but even on birthdays. These noodles are particularly auspicious as they represent health and long life.

Chowking at SM Bulacan malls offers aromatic noodle dishes like the long-life Pancit Canton. Experience with Chowking the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that define Chinese cuisine without breaking the bank.

5. Rice cakes

This Chinese New Year, Classic Savory brings in good luck as they offer Special Tikoy available at their branches in SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag.

Nian gao, better known as tikoy in the Philippines, is one of the most popular dishes during Chinese New Year. Tikoy brings prosperity to those who give and receive it, so you can expect to be gifted a few boxes of this rice cake throughout the season. Tikoy comes in different flavors and may come in different shapes. Available at SM City Marilao’s Eng Bee Tin and SM Bulacan malls’ Classic Savory and SM Markets.

6. Fruit and vegetables

Vegetables and fruits play a vital role at a Chinese dinner table, each symbolizing specific prosperity. For instance, grapefruit represents family, while mushrooms represent blessings and fortune. All these are freshly available at SM Markets in SM Bulacan malls.

You are undoubtedly prepared to welcome the prosperity of the Lunar New Year and celebrate with these lucky food guides. These basic, ordinary dishes are made more significant when imparted to friends and family. For an exciting and memorable Chinese New Year celebration, go to your favorite SM Malls in Marilao, Baliwag, and Pulilan.

Jollibee Foods Corporation and Republic Cement Unite to Recover and Divert Plastic Packaging Wastes through Co-Processing

“Republic Cement provides a very important solution to fight plastic pollution by diverting wastes away from landfills and waterways, away from areas where it can negatively affect communities. We are happy to see the commitment of the JFC towards doing their part in solving our current plastic pollution crisis. Republic Cement is with JFC in their journey for a greener, more sustainable world.” ~Mr. Roman Menz, Republic Cement CEO

Jollibee Foods Corporation representatives Assistant Vice President and Head of Global Procurement Services Bryan Marc Tividad and Vice President & Head for Network Development Philippines Gerard Paul Filart; together with Republic Cement CEO Roman Menz, Vice President for Manufacturing Lloyd Vicente, and Director of  ecoloop (the resource recovery arm of Republic Cement) Atty. Angela Edralin-Valencia, during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement to support the EPR Law, which will help prevent plastic waste from landfills and from leaking into urban waterways and oceans.

The Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), one of the fastest growing  restaurant companies in the world, recently inked a partnership with Republic Cement and Building Materials, Inc. ("Republic Cement"), to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law. 

The objective of the EPR law is to decrease the amount of plastic waste produced and enhance the longevity of plastics by incorporating value or purpose through upcycling or recycling.

As a component of its global sustainability initiative, Joy for Tomorrow, JFC is striving to reclaim post-consumer plastic packaging waste, redirecting it from landfills and waterways and channeling it to Republic Cement for co-processing.

Republic Cement, a prominent local cement manufacturer and a trailblazer in co-processing within the country, will employ the gathered post-consumer packaging waste as an alternative fuel in the cement manufacturing process.

During the MOA signing held at the Republic Cement head office in Taguig City, Republic Cement CEO Mr. Roman Menz emphasized the role of the company in supporting organizations like JFC. 

JFC Vice President for Network Development Group Gerard Paul Filart, for his part, shared that the partnership with Republic Cement is timely and momentous as the company just celebrated its 45th anniversary in 2023.

“We are committed to supporting our Global Sustainability Agenda with its three main pillars of Food, People, and Planet. With this partnership with Republic Cement, we are taking steps towards minimizing wastage while providing something of value.  With this, we are hoping we are helping to bring more joy for tomorrow.” ~Gerard Paul Filart, JFC Vice President for Network Development Group

The MOA covers wholly owned brands of Jollibee Foods Corporation in the Philippines, namely Jollibee, Chowking, Mang Inasal, Greenwich, and Red Ribbon; and franchised brands operated by JFC in the country, specifically Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya.

About Jollibee Group 

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. Its mission is to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone through its 18 brands with over 6,800 stores across 33 countries including the Philippines, United States, Canada, the People's Republic of China, United Kingdom, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, and Australia. 

The Jollibee Group has eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee; and 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand. JFC also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

The Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. The Jollibee Group has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. Recently, the Jollibee Group has signed an agreement to establish a joint venture company that will own and operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. 

The Jollibee Group has launched its global sustainability agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, which aims to strengthen the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. The agenda centers on the key pillars of Food, People, and Planet, and consists of 10 focus areas namely: food safety, food quality, nutrition & transparency, employee welfare, farmers livelihood, community support, good governance, packaging & recycling, waste reduction, and energy & water efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Jollibee Group was named the Philippines' most admired company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies and among the World's Best Employers and World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. The company is also a two-time recipient of Gallup’s Exceptional Workplace Award, making it the only Philippine-based company to receive the distinction. 

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com