Sony Philippines Mounts First-Ever Creator’s Fest in Manila

Sony Philippines capped off its inaugural Creator’s Fest, an immersive event designed to empower content creators to elevate their storytelling through superior technology and expertise. Right at the historic and culturally rich setting of Intramuros, this exclusive event featured a day packed with engaging experiences, demonstrations, and insights from Sony’s roster of creators.

Sony President Shuhei Suhigara welcomes the crowd with a heartwarming message, saying that the company aims to get closer to creators and followers of the digital landscape, as “it is people that create and experience Kando,” which is one of Sony’s key elements of purpose.

A Camera for Every Creator

Sony’s cameras are globally recognized for their superior specs, making them ideal for creators who prioritize quality and creativity. Whether participants were beginners finding their eye for creativity, growing creators mastering their craft, or industry leaders pushing boundaries, the Creator’s Fest provided the perfect environment for content creation exploration.

An expansive lineup of Sony cameras was on full display for creators to experience the right gear to match their evolving needs. From the ZV-1 II best for beginners, to the A6700 and FX30 designed for more advanced storytellers, Sony offered a range of options to cater to every content creator. These cameras were engineered to deliver the best in content creation, ensuring that every shot is captured with unparalleled precision and clarity.

Experiential Zones to Inspire and Ignite Creativity

At the heart of the Creator’s Fest were five experiential zones that embodied Sony’s ethos of Kando—a Japanese word that translates to "the power of emotions"—as it provided guests with hands-on experiences that sparked creativity and passion.

Gastro Experience with Erwan Heussaff and Abi Marquez:

Focused on food styling and photography, Erwan Heussaff and Abi Marquez led a session at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant and exhibited how to plate and capture the perfect shot of the classic Filipino dessert, Brazo de Mercedes. Using the ZV-E10 II, Participants learned how to highlight texture, color, and cultural context in their food shots. From creative plating techniques to mastering indoor lighting, this hands-on session brought food photography to life with a modern twist on traditional Filipino dishes.

Lifestyle Fashion Shoot with Janina Manipol and Marco Gallo: In this session, creators explored the intersection of colonial and modern styles through editorial fashion photography with professional equipment powered by Aputure PH. Guided by Janina and Marco, participants tried to capture radiant outdoor beauty, focusing on soft natural light, angles, textures, and background blur. The session emphasized capturing intricate fashion details, ensuring every shot told a unique story.

Beauty and Lifestyle with Jaz Reyes: Jaz Reyes showcased beauty photography, demonstrating techniques with the help of Ellana Cosmetics. Creators explored the interplay between sunlight, shadows, and textures, learning to naturally blend product items into the landscape for captivating shots.

Travel Content Creation with Anjohn Sorza: Traveling through photography, Anjohn Sorza showcased how to create visually compelling travel content, in collaboration with Herschel. Using the ZV-E10 II, A6700, and A7CII, creators learned to incorporate architectural elements into their visual stories, leveraging dramatic natural light, creative angles, and human elements to bring historical spaces to life.

Lifestyle Bar and Action Photography with Jessica Lee: Jessica Lee guided participants through the art of capturing dynamic action shots during a live cocktail flaring performance with Hikaru. Creators learned how to freeze fast movements and enhance the shine and motion of bottles and glasses with creative lighting techniques. This session challenged creators to capture the excitement and drama of bartending tricks from unique angles.

A Celebration of Creativity and Innovation

Attendees not only participated in hands-on workshops and immersive experiences but also had the unique opportunity to explore the latest Sony products firsthand, including the highly anticipated ZV-E10 II. Product experts were on hand to guide creators through demonstrations, showcasing how Sony’s cameras and accessories are designed to enhance content creation across various niches. In addition to the exclusive product showcases, participants enjoyed special giveaways from Sony and its partner brands, making the event both an educational and rewarding experience for everyone involved.

With this first-ever Creator’s Fest, Sony Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a community of creators who are passionate about storytelling, quality, and innovation. The event offered a unique opportunity to learn, create, and connect with like-minded individuals in a dynamic and inspiring setting.

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world. For more information, visit: http://www.sony.net/.

BPI’s business development program supports start-up enterprises

OhMi Krafts, one of the winners of SEAL-BEGIN, customizes souvenirs from polymer clays, beads, wood, and succulents.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its social development arm, BPI Foundation (BPIF), in partnership with Bayan Academy, recently announced the top 40 small enterprises and top 20 nano enterprises from this year’s Small Enterprise Acceleration Lab (SEAL) program.

Launched in 2022, the SEAL Project Series was designed not only to support but also to empower micro and nano enterprises, as well as aspiring entrepreneurs. Through strategic interventions and hands-on guidance, SEAL has become a beacon of hope for small business owners looking to scale and sustain their operations.

In the past year, the SEAL-Small Enterprise Growth Agenda (SEAL-SEGA) provided invaluable training in product and service development, operations optimization, and marketing to over 200 entrepreneurs. More than just lessons, the program offered tailored solutions that addressed specific challenges these businesses faced. Top-performing enterprises were not only equipped with knowledge, but also received cash grants and expert mentorship to fuel their growth.

This year, BPIF honored 40 enterprises that showcased outstanding potential, providing them with cash grants ranging from Php80,000 to Php120,000. These businesses, now empowered to implement their strategic plans, will continue to benefit from ongoing mentorship.

BPIF also introduced a new track this year called the SEAL-Business Education and Growth Initiative for Nano-entrepreneurs (SEAL-BEGIN). SEAL-BEGIN provided fundamental training and resources to support aspiring entrepreneurs, with a focus on integrating digital-age opportunities.

For SEAL-BEGIN, over 240 registrants participated in the program, with 20 nano-enterprises being recognized for their promising potential and innovative ideas. The participants received entrepreneurial training and were encouraged to leverage local and government resources to enhance their business ventures.

“We have witnessed the entrepreneurs’ determination through the program, and we’re excited to see how they will scale their businesses in the future. It has been an honor to be part of their journey. BPI Foundation is committed to empowering small enterprises, and we believe that with the right support, these entrepreneurs can significantly contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion. We look forward to seeing their continued success as they transform their visions into reality.” ~Carmina Marquez, BPIF Executive Director

Since its inception, the SEAL program series has supported many enterprises, disbursing a significant amount in cash grants. Through comprehensive training, mentorship, and financial aid, the program is fostering a vibrant and innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country.

Insular Foundation Provides Skills Training to Haven for Women Residents

To help the residents of Haven for Women gain useful skills and make a living, the Insular Foundation offered them skills training.  

The Department of Social Welfare and Development's National Capital Region Haven for Women residents in Muntinlupa City received training in hairdressing and nail care techniques from InLife's corporate social responsibility division. In order to assist the women in starting their own home services or finding employment in salons, the Insular Foundation also donated beauty kits that included all necessary equipment and supplies.  

The three-year collaboration between the Insular Foundation, Haven for Women, and Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI) included the skills training. 

“Inaasahan namin na magagamit ninyo ang inyong natutunan sa aming handog na Skills Training and beauty kits on Hairdressing and Nail Care, upang paglabas ninyo dito sa Haven for Women ay mayroon kayong baon para simulan muli ng maganda ang inyong mga buhay.” ~Ana Soriano, Insular Foundation Executive Director

MCTI Operations Division Head Antonio Terrenal encouraged the women to use their new skills to gain livelihood. 

“Huwag nating sayangin ang ganitong pagkakataon na skills training na ibinigay ng MCTI at Insular Foundation. Kayo din ang aani ng pagsasanay nyo dito dahil magagamit nyo ito sa pagbabagong-buhay at paghahanap-buhay.” ~Antonio Terrenal,  MCTI Operations Division Head

Catherine Taleno, Social Welfare Officer III of Haven for Women, thanked Insular Foundation for supporting the government’s goal of empowering women. 

“The goal of Haven for Women is women empowerment so that our residents who are victims of gender-based violence can be productive members of their communities. Lubos po ang pasasalamat namin sa partnership na ito with MCTI and Insular Foundation. The government cannot do it alone. We need the assistance of our partners to achieve our goal.” ~Catherine Taleno, Social Welfare Officer III of Haven for Women

One of the training recipients expressed hope that they can use their skills to earn a living. “Kahit hindi ako nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral ay nagpapasalamat ako kasi natuto akong gumupit. Sana ay huwag tayong panghinaan at mawalan ng pag-asa, at maging matagumpay tayong lahat.”  

Find Your Purpose with Mondelēz International

Mondelēz International in the Philippines recently celebrated its Purpose Day, an annual event dedicated to reinforcing the company’s mission of empowering people to snack right. This year’s celebration, themed #ProudToBeMDLZ, focused on encouraging its employees to make mindful choices in their everyday lives, whether in their snacking habits or their commitment to fitness and well-being. The event was also marked by the conclusion of its internal Walk-Run-Bike-Workout (WRBW) Challenge, a company-wide fitness initiative that saw nearly 100 participants embracing the importance of health alongside mindful snacking.

Aleli Arcilla, Managing Director of Mondelēz International in the Philippines, underscored the connection between snacking and well-being.

“At Mondelēz International, where snacking is at the heart of what we do, it's important to remind ourselves that we must be mindful about our actions. We support making purposeful choices, both in how much we snack and how much time we devote to physical fitness. That’s why we started the WRBW challenge in 2021, at the height of the pandemic. To remind our people that wellness should always be a priority. On this our 3rd year, I am happy to see the commitment of our people to their own wellbeing, something the company greatly supports. It was a day meant for recharging and reconnecting with what drives our people. Mental health is a priority for our Company and we wanted to dedicate day for that, apart from the support provided to our colleagues all year round.” ~Aleli Arcilla, Managing Director of Mondelēz International in the Philippines 

Purpose Day celebrated the conclusion of the WRBW Challenge, which saw impressive results across all categories. A total of twelve million steps were logged in the Walk challenge, more than three thousand kilometers covered in the Run challenge, almost six thousand kilometers completed in the Bike challenge, and a staggering seven hundred thousand calories were burned in the workout portion. This challenge was not just about individual accomplishments but also about fostering a culture of health and well-being within the organization. 

The event highlighted the company’s dedication to Mindful Snacking, an integral part of Mondelēz International’s global leadership in the snacking industry. Employees were reminded of the significance of savoring snacks in a more mindful way—by taking the time to appreciate the flavors, enjoying smaller portions, and making healthier snack choices. These initiatives reflect Mondelēz International’s ongoing effort to promote eating snacks with attention and intention to have a more satisfying snacking experience and avoid overindulgence. 

Another standout initiative of Purpose Day was the celebration of "Find Your Purpose Day" last October 4—a free day for employees to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with their personal purpose. By providing employees with a dedicated day to rest and focus on what drives them, the Company is fostering both professional and personal growth in support of World Mental Health Day this October. 

As a global leader in the snacking industry, Mondelēz International continues to champion a culture where its employees live more mindfully, making balanced choices in both their professional and personal lives. The success of Purpose Day, combined with the WRBW Challenge, demonstrates the company’s commitment to making the right snacks, for the right moment and made the right way. This dedication has been recognized with Mondelēz International’s recent induction into the HR Asia Hall of Fame, celebrating its status as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Asia for the fifth consecutive year.  

About Mondelēz International

Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ) empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world with 2023 net revenues of approximately $36 billion, MDLZ is leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as OREO, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor’s 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ.

About Mondelez Philippines 

Mondelez Philippines, Inc. has been providing consumers with delicious snack products for the past 61 years - since 1963. Its product portfolio includes Tang powdered beverages, Eden cheese, mayonnaise and sandwich spread, Cheez Whiz spread, Oreo cookies, Tiger energy biscuits, as well as Toblerone and Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolates. The company employs about 450 people in the Philippines, with a manufacturing facility in Parañaque City. Visit https://ph.mondelezinternational.com/home

Infinix is celebrating the MPL-PH Season 14 Grand Finals with passionate XFans

The MPL hype is still alive and well. Infinix, one of the top tech brands in the Philippines, is giving XFans the chance to unleash the #HeroWithin during the MPL Philippines Season 14 Playoffs with exciting events from October 16 to 20, featuring the power of Infinix GT 20 Pro, the MPL official tournament phone.

The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League (MPL) Philippines brings together some of the country’s best teams to battle it out for the prestigious championship, and give them the opportunity to compete internationally. As a brand that supports the dreams of Filipino esports pros, Infinix equips players with the ultra-fast and powerful Infinix GT 20 Pro, the MPL official tournament phone powered by Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G Processor and Pixelworks X5 Gaming Display Chip. It comes with a 120FPS Stable Frame-rate Engine and up to 24GB Extended RAM + 256GB ROM. The phone also went through rigorous tests at the Infinix GT Gaming Lab to ensure that its performance, frame-rate, and battery can handle even the most intense MLBB matches.

With the MPL PH Season 14 Playoffs just around the corner, XFans can have fun while supporting their favorite teams during the final stretch of Infinix’s FANSiklaban series.

Starting October 16, XFans can catch the MPL Infinix FANSiklaban tournament finals at Green Sun Hotel in Makati, featuring 5-man teams of MPL Fan Clubs battling it out for a chance to win brand-new Infinix GT 20 Pro phones and 25,000 MLBB diamonds. Runners-up will also take home Infinix merch and MLBB diamonds.

XFans can still join the #XFANSiklabanChallenge at the Infinix booth for a chance to win limited and exclusive Infinix merch. Over 2,000 pieces of merch are up for grabs, so fans shouldn’t miss this chance. Spectators can also test out the Infinix GT 20 Pro and experience its powerful specs.

“This partnership aims to provide our gamers and fans with an enhanced gaming experience through Infinix’s innovative and tournament-grade phones. We are one with Infinix in creating a pathway for the fans to showcase their skills in playing MLBB and represent the community of the teams they are supporting through a tournament called FANSiklaban, while at the same time giving them the end-user experience of the official tournament phone of MPL PH.” ~Lee Viloria, MOONTON Games Business Development and Partnerships Lead for PH Esports

Celebrating greatness during MPL finals season

On October 20, XFans can experience the exhilarating MPL-PH Season 14 Grand Finals during the Xperience Victory Watch Party at The Pop Up in Quezon City.  The gathering will bring together some of the most passionate MPL fans to celebrate the accomplishments and growth of their favorite teams and esports pros. Apart from the watch party,  XFans can also partake in an MLBB community tournament and get a chance to meet MPL talents.

MPL-PH will also recognize the Infinix Most Improved Player during the MPL Alamat Awards at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati City on October 18. This is the first-ever award of its kind to be presented to the player who has shown remarkable growth, dedication, and progress over the course of the MPL season.

It’s been a memorable MPL season so far, made even more exciting with the power of the Infinix GT 20 Pro, helping MLBB pros execute their winning plays during the tournament. Experience pro-level gameplay and get yourself the Infinix GT 20 Pro, the MPL official tournament phone, available via TikTok Shop, Shopee, and Lazada. 

For more updates and information, visit Infinix Philippines’ official website, Facebook page, and TikTok. Be an XFan today and join the Infinix Facebook Community page.

About Infinix:

Founded in 2013, Infinix is a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers. With a presence in over 70 countries and regions, Infinix delivers cutting-edge technology, stylish design, and outstanding performance. Our product lineup includes smartphones, TWS earbuds, smartwatches, laptops, and smart TVs. In 2023, Infinix was recognized in Kantar and Google's top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders Report and ranked sixth in Fast Company's World's Most Innovative Companies of 2024 in the Asia-Pacific sector. For more information, please visit: http://www.infinixmobility.com/

#Flavorfest returns as Wild West Sauces meet Tropical Fizz drinks at McDonald's

Fans of last June’s McDonald’s Flavor Fest will have more to love as it returns as Wild West-inspired Chicken McNuggets Sauces meet Tropical Fruit Fizz Drinks! Get ready for the return of Classic Ranch sauce, the introduction of all-new Cheesy Smoked Chili sauce, and enjoy an irresistible refreshment with tropical Green Apple Fizz and Mango Passion Fizz!

Satisfy your cravings for great-tasting chicken by dipping your favorite Chicken McNuggets into the bold Cheesy Smoked Chili, which features a blend of chipotle, bell peppers, and mild spiciness. You can also enjoy the savory, herb-packed Classic Ranch. For a touch of paradise, try the fresh and fruity Green Apple Fizz or the delightful Mango Passion Fizz, made with a blend of mango and sweet-tangy passion fruit!

 

McDonald’s App users who are eager to experience the Flavor Fest will get their chance!  Starting on October 10, App users can redeem an exclusive 6-pc. Chicken McNuggets with 1 FREE new sauce and 1 FREE fruit fizz drink deal for only PHP 99 - a 44% discount! They will also have the chance to sip into tropical paradise with a Buy 1 Take 1 Fruit Fizz drink for only PHP 69! These McDonald's app deals are available in all stores nationwide via Dine-in, Take-out and Drive-thru only.

Barkadas can also enjoy a 20-pc Chicken McNuggets Bundle exclusively for delivery that will come with 20 nuggets, four sauces, and two fruit fizz drinks! This offer will be available via GrabFood, Foodpanda, McDelivery apps.

“After the first FlavorFest in June, we’re excited to introduce another dimension to our iconic Chicken McNuggets with the Cheesy Smoked Chili sauce and the returning Classic Ranch. And to complete this delicious taste experience would be a pairing of delicious drinks. Our fans would be delighted to sip and chill with our new Fruit Fizz flavors -- Green Apple Fizz and Mango Passion Fizz!" ~Ashley Santillan, McDonald’s Marketing Director

McDonald's Chicken McNuggets new sauces and fruit fizz drinks are available starting October 10 for a limited time only via Dine-in, take-out, Drive-thru, or Delivery. Hurry, enjoy them while they're still here via dine-in, take-out, and drive-thru channels. For more information, visit McDonalds.com.ph, or follow on Facebook, and on Instagram.

About McDonald’s Philippines

McDonald’s Philippines’ master franchise holder Dr. George T. Yang – who oversees and sits as Chairman for over 40 years -- founded and brought the first McDonald’s store to the country in 1981. Since then, McDonald’s in the Philippines has been a formidable player in the country’s quick-service restaurant industry, having grown a store network of over 750 nationwide. McDonald’s Philippines continues to aspire to make a difference in communities where it operates through its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities Philippines.

PCPPI pushes for quality education, supports DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela

Carrying the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) continues to show full support to the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Brigada Eskwela Program. As part of the company’s sustainability commitments and in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, PCPPI has been extending support to local schools and communities since 2014.

“PCPPI values education and acknowledges the vital role that the youth play in nation-building. This is why we continuously support Brigada Eskwela as it brings communities together to build an environment conducive for learning.” ~Atty. Carina Bayon, PCPPI Chief Environmental, Social and Governance Officer

Established in 2003, Brigada Eskwela is a nationwide school maintenance program that encourages participation from teachers, volunteers, private organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that school facilities are all set for the new academic year.

Aptly themed, “Bayanihan para sa Matatag na Paaralan”, this year’s program pushes closer collaboration between communities and private organizations to strengthen the country’s educational system and institutions. 

Over 200 PCPPI volunteers from 15 locations across the country volunteered their time and energy for this good cause. 

PCPPI partnered with 19 public schools this year and donated school supplies, health and safety tools, items for cleaning, construction and repair materials, and refreshments. Aside from these donations, PCPPI employees also led community projects such as conducting waste management learning sessions, cleaning classrooms and school grounds, repairing school facilities, and clearing vegetable and ornamental gardens.

As the exclusive manufacturer of well-known PepsiCo beverages in the country, PCPPI remains true to its commitments to ensure a brighter future for Filipino learners.

PCPPI manufactures and sells well-known beverage brands such as Pepsi, Mountain Dew, 7Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier. 

For more information about PCPPI and its brands, please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.