Official logo for the 150th Birth Anniversary of Gregorio del Pilar

Here's a closer look at the newly launched commemorative logo for the 150th Birth Anniversary of General Gregorio Del Pilar, hero of the Battle of Tirad Pass. The design features a stylized copy of Gregorio Del Pilar's famous photo portrait within a circle. Beneath the circle the words GOYO 150 are seen. Within the "0" the name of the commemoration "Gregorio Del Pilar 150th Birth Anniversary 1875 - 14 Nov - 2025" also written. In full color, the blue, red, and black of Del Pilar's personal standard are represented in the circle and words. Light and Dark monochrome backgrounds are also authorized.

The design was created by NHCP Creative Arts Specialist Jovan C. Soriano and formally launched during the 3rd Republika Lectures on 2 December 2024, the 125th Anniversary of the Battle of Tirad Pass in G. Del Pilar, Ilocos Sur.

Jack ‘n Jill Nova introduces NOVAmazing Moves: 5 ways to make movement fun and exciting

An active lifestyle can be a great way to improve your mood, making you feel happier and more energized. If you’re just finding your groove in working out, there are exciting ways to get your steps in. You can even make the experience more amazing by capping it off with a multigrain snack such as Jack ‘n Jill Nova.

Whether you’re a casual or experienced mover, you can start with these five activities at home:

Dance to your heart’s content

Signing up for a dance or Zumba class can be daunting at first, especially if you’re doing it alone. Once you get past the nerves, you’ll learn to just follow the beat and move to your own rhythm. If you don’t want to join a class, no problem. You can always put on your favorite playlist or follow a dance workout video online in the comfort of your own home.

Recently, Jack ‘n Jill Nova hosted NOVAmazing Moves, a series of pop-up events that aims to make movement fun and accessible for everyone through various activities. The multi-gain snack brand aims to support people’s active lifestyles, encouraging them to move with no pressure.

Hula hoop your worries away

Another fun activity that feels like play is hula hooping. This can be a great option if you want to improve your coordination and strengthen your core without the heavy lifting. It can also be a fun bonding activity with the kids in your household.

Sweat it out on a bike

Biking continues to be a popular activity across multiple generations. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to ride a bike, now’s the time to do it. You can also sign up for indoor biking classes, where you can pedal to lively beats and meet new people.

Learn the ropes

Jump rope can be a fun workout to try because it feels like you’re just playing outside. You can even elevate your experience by jumping to some hip music and learning trendy tricks. This was one of the interactive classes enjoyed by the attendees of the NOVAmazing Moves pop-ups where they learned the basics and a few fun tricks.

Run with friends

Running clubs are all over social media these days. Running has grown from being an activity to increase stamina and stay in shape to a community building effort. Grab your friends and create your own mini running club to get your steps in. After all, exercising with friends can be a fun time.

These are just some quick and simple activities that can bring activeness and movement to your lifestyle. You can easily make your own NOVAmazing day by treating yourself with a bag of Jack ‘n Jill Nova which comes in Country Cheddar, Homestyle BBQ and Sweet Chili flavors.

Grab a bag of Jack ‘n Jill Nova at any supermarkets and convenience stores near you. For more information and updates, don’t forget to like and follow Nova’s Facebook page.

Jack ‘n Jill Nova is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Maxx, Cloud 9, Magic Crackers, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).

Fujifilm Philippines supports Healthcare System Enhancement with Advanced Portable X-Ray System to end TB

Handover of FUJIFILM’s ultraportable FDR Xair to DOH. In photo from L-R: Masahiro Uehara, President of FUJIFILM Philippines Inc.; Teiichi Goto, President, Representative Director and Chief Executive Officer of FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation; Makati City Mayor Abby Binay; and Haruto Iwata, Managing Director of FUJIFILM Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.

 

Fujifilm Philippines, the global leader in imaging and healthcare technology, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Philippines’ healthcare system, particularly in the fight against tuberculosis (TB).

Recent data from the World Health Organization (WHO) for 2024 reveals that the Philippines remains among the top five countries responsible for more than half of the global TB cases. The Philippines is also listed among the 10 nations with a "high burden" of TB incidence, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced detection and treatment strategies.

In response to this critical healthcare hurdle, Fujifilm Philippines is reinforcing its efforts to end TB by bringing advanced technology that supports early detection and diagnosis in the country. The company has introduced the FDR X- Air, a portable X-ray system that plays a vital role in TB screening by enabling healthcare professionals to conduct rapid and accurate diagnostics in diverse and often challenging environments.

Fujifilm’s strong commitment to supporting the Philippines’ fight against TB is expressed through their donation of cutting-edge X-ray systems. In the turnover to DOH, held at the Official Residence of the Ambassador of Japan on December 3, Fujifilm Global President and CEO Teiichi Goto expressed his support for the Philippine government’s efforts in addressing public health concerns, stating:

“At Fujifilm, we recognize that timely and accurate diagnosis is essential in saving lives. Unfortunately, many people in remote or resource-limited areas lack access to essential diagnostic tools like X-ray. Through the FDR X-Air, known for imaging accuracy and portability, Fujifilm aims to help address gaps in healthcare access and to enhance diagnostic capabilities throughout the Philippines. The technological advancements that come with the FDR X-air help clinicians deliver more precise and timely diagnoses, leading to better treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.”

Mr. Goto went on to emphasize that early diagnosis is key to beating tuberculosis, among other diseases, and how Fujifilm is dedicated to enabling healthcare professionals with the tools they need to diagnose and treat this disease promptly.

The FDR X-Air is particularly engineered with portability – it is currently the lightest among registered portable X-ray equipment, compact design, and high image quality, making it an essential tool for improving TB screening efforts even in remote, underserved communities where access to healthcare infrastructure is limited. Its ease of use in rural areas where traditional, large-scale diagnostic equipment may not be feasible ensures that more Filipinos, especially those in hard-to-reach regions, can be screened and treated early.

Fujifilm's initiative is part of the company's broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts aimed at enhancing healthcare systems and supporting the government’s goal of reducing the TB burden in the country. By equipping healthcare facilities and professionals with state-of-the-art tools like the FDR X-Air, Fujifilm is playing a pivotal role in improving the accessibility, speed, and accuracy of medical diagnoses, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for the Filipino people.

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Two new Luzon champs join Rebisco Volleyball League National Finals: Kings’ Montessori, Naga College Foundation in 2024 championship round

FRESH faces look to challenge familiar ones as the Rebisco Volleyball League welcomes two new Luzon regional champions alongside two traditional titlists that complete the RVL National Finals cast clashing at the Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong from November 22 to 25.

University of Batangas and Sta. Cruz Academy of Lubao Inc. are set to make their respective debuts in the national finals after emerging as the last teams standing in their regional finals of the biggest 18-and-under women’s volleyball tournament in the country that drew 480 schools from 10 regions this year.

The two newcomers representing Southern Luzon and Northern Luzon, respectively, join two-time defending Bicol regional champion Naga College Foundation and Kings’ Montessori School of the National Capital Region as the four Luzon regional champions of this nationwide grassroots development tournament that’s now on its sixth year.

Waiting for them in the national finals are Mindanao regional champions Sto. Niño National High School, Corpus Christi School, and Notre Dame of Dadiangas University, and Visayas representatives University of San Jose-Recoletos, Linao National High School, and RVL 2023 defending national champion Bacolod Tay Tung.

The Top 4 teams in the national finals will clinch spots in the invitational finals where they will tangle with foreign teams Northern California Volleyball Association (USA) and RVL 2019 national champion Nakornnont Volleyball Club of Thailand on November 27 to 30.

University of Batangas (UB) steadily worked its way up to prove it belongs in this year’s 10-team national finals cast, beating St. John’s Wort Montessori School. After finishing second runner-up in the 2022 South Luzon regionals and just falling short in the 2023 edition when it wound up as the runner-up, the Batangas City-based spikers finally got over the hump this year.

The importance of the RVL, though, is in providing many teams an avenue to play competitive volleyball.

“Sa Rebisco Volleyball League, anyone o any team na interested to play, you are most welcome,” Buenvenida said as he works hand in hand with RVL commissioner Ysay Marasigan.

University of Batangas (UB) then beat Josiah Christian Values High School and De la Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute to sweep the group phase, before dispatching University of Perpetual Help System Laguna in the semifinal. UB hurdled its final test in Sto. Niño de Praga Academy of La Paz Homes in regional finals title game, 25-17, 25-17.

Riza Drice showed the way for University of Batangas to be named South Luzon MVP as well as First Best Outside Hitter. She had plenty of help from Best Setter Myesha Zaraspe and Second Best Middle Blocker in Princess Ricaplaza.

De la Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute had the most individual awardees with three in Griffin Lian Bucayan (Best Opposite Attacker), Lorraine Lorejo (Second Best Outside Hitter), and First Best Middle Blocker Estella Dabu. Khasyk Tuazon of Sto. Niño de Praga Academy of La Paz Homes was adjudged Best Libero to round out the awardees.

In the North Luzon leg, Sta. Cruz Academy of Lubao Inc. made a statement as early as the prequalifiers when it stunned defending Pampanga prequalifying champion Holy Family Academy to earn the right to represent the province in the regional finals this time. There, Sta. Cruz took down St. Jean Baptiste Academy, University of the Cordilleras High School, and Riveridge School Inc. in the group stage. Then, the Lubao-based volleybelles beat First City Providential College in the Final Four, before overcoming Juan R. Liwag Memorial High School in the regional final, 25-15, 25-21.

Coline Bautista and Micaela Gould stood tallest for Sta. Cruz as they were named Best Libero and Best Setter, respectively, as Gould set up plays for Best Opposite Attacker Amber Nicole Ronquillo. Juan R. Liwag Memorial High School took consolation by having the MVP award winner in Divine Roshielle Garcia, who was also named First Best Outside Hitter. First City Providential College had two awardees in Vhanna Dominique Molacruz (Second Best Outside Hitter) and Best Middle Blocker Pauli Anne Vale. Angel Lou Ewis of the Univ. of the Cordilleras rounded out the awardees as the Second Best Middle Blocker.

Unlike University of Batangas and Sta. Cruz Academy of Lubao Inc. gatecrashing the national finals, Naga College Foundation (NCF) maintained status quo in the Bicol regional finals as it reached the national finals for the third consecutive time.

The NCF Lady Tigers took down San Lorenzo National High School, Sta. Elene Integrated School, and Mt. Carmel School of Infanta, the same team they beat in the gold-medal match, 25-10, 25-18, behind Lady Tigers star and eventual MVP and First Best Middle Blocker Jessa Mae Pauleen Santos.

Kings’ Montessori School, for its part, is making a return to the national finals stage and is eyeing a second RVL national title after ruling the 2018 edition. The Quezon City-based spikers bagged the gold medal in the NCR regional finals where National University Nazareth School (NUN) Team B, the 2017 national champion, settled for silver and San Felipe Neri Catholic School made a memorable RVL debut by rounding out the Top 3.

Led by eventual MVP and First Best Outside Hitter Paula Palma, Kings’ Montessori swept the regional finals group stage with wins over University of Santo Tomas Team B, Augustinian Abbey School, and Leandro Locsin Integrated School, on the way to a 25-20, 25-18 victory over NUN for the gold.

REX and PEAC reaffirm commitment to the teaching profession, launch Year 4 of Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan

The education sector needs the best and brightest to lead the way. With this vision, Rex Education and the Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) united in 2020 to launch the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan, a scholarship program dedicated to championing and advancing teacher education by inspiring top learners to pursue the teaching profession.

Four years later, the mission remains steadfast: to cultivate the country's brightest minds into champions of education—integral members of the Edukampyon community. Teachers, being closest to learners, are the ultimate Edukampyons, wielding the power to significantly impact Filipino learners and guiding them toward creating a better future for themselves, society, and nation.

On Teachers’ Day, October 5, Rex Education and PEAC reaffirmed this commitment with the formal launch of Year 4 of the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan, in a virtual event titled “A Commitment for the Future of the Teaching Profession: PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan Year 4 Launch.”

“I am deeply grateful and excited to be celebrating yet another meaningful milestone with all of you. Parang ang bilis ng panahon. I can hardly believe we are already launching the fourth year of our PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan Program,” said Don Timothy Buhain, Chief Executive Officer of RexEducation and Co-Chair of the scholarship program, during his keynote.

In his speech, Buhain highlighted the pressing need for meaningful change in the quality of education in the country, especially in light of the recent Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings, where Filipino learners ranked 77th out of 81 countries. This alarming statistic underscores the need for education stakeholders—parents, school administrators, teachers, academic publishers, government, the whole nation—to intensify their initiatives, deepen their actions, and unite in uplifting education in the country.

According to Buhain, this enhancement in education quality hinges on improving teacher quality, which is a primary goal of this scholarship program. “Looking back, this all began with a shared recognition of a vital need. We knew that if we truly wanted to see meaningful change in the quality of education, particularly in teacher quality, we had to act swiftly,” Buhain stated. “In PEAC, we found a partner whose aspirations for learners and educators aligndeeply with ours. I truly believe we could not have asked for a more fitting collaborator and partner in this endeavor.”

This initiative will soon celebrate its first graduating class—14 of the country’s top scholars—who are set to enter the teaching profession next year as the pioneer batch of the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan program. For Year 4, PEAC and Rex Education are proud to welcome 25 scholars—the most in the program’s still short but fruitful history—in this continuing investment and commitment tothe teaching profession.

“Through this program, we aim to advance teacher quality by recruiting the best and brightest first-year students who want to pursue the teaching profession—especially in math and science—and grant them scholarships. This is our investment in the future of the profession. What an incredible journey it has been so far. We faced challenges, celebrated triumphs, and shared so many heartfelt moments along the way. Look how far we’ve come,” Buhain remarked.

Indeed, the PEAC–REX Edukampyon Iskolar Para Sa Kinabukasan program has come a long way and made remarkable strides in just four short years It only continues to grow stronger and has so much more to give, be hopeful for, and accomplish in years to come.

Crunch, Collect, Conquer: Mister Potato partners with Netflix’s Squid Game 2 for a Snack-Tastic Contest

Mister Potato Philippines is taking your love for snacks to a thrilling new level. In collaboration with Netflix’s global hit Squid Game, Mister Potato has launched an interactive contest that could turn your next canister of crisps into a passport to incredible prizes—including a dream trip to South Korea!

Dubbed the Crunch to Win: Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 contest, this high-stakes campaign combines the excitement of Netflix’s breakout series with the irresistible crunch of Mister Potato snacks. Whether you're a Squid Game superfan or a dedicated snacker, this campaign promises something for everyone.

The Crunch That Could Take You to Korea

Running from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the Crunch to Wincontest invites snack lovers to uncover hidden Squid Game-inspired symbols inside the metal lids of specially marked Mister Potato canisters. These symbols could be your ticket to an unforgettable journey filled with exclusive prizes.

Here’s what’s at stake:

● Weekly Prizes:

○ Squid Game Funko Pop collectibles.

○ P1,000 worth of vouchers for select partners.

○ Bundles of Mister Potato products to keep your snack stash stocked.

● Grand Prize:

○ A dream getaway to South Korea, including airfare, accommodations, and a curated itinerary designed to immerse you in the magic of Korean culture.

● Consolation Prizes:

○ Additional bundles of Mister Potato products.

○ Exclusive Squid Game merchandise and vouchers worth up to P1,500.

Each canister brings a new opportunity to win, making snack time an even more exciting adventure!

How It Works

Participating in the contest is as easy as crunching open your favorite Mister Potato flavor. Follow these steps to join:

Purchase limited-edition Mister Potato x Squid Game 2 canisters, available at leading retailers nationwide.

Look for the hidden Squid Game symbols inside the metal lid of the canister.

Submit your entries online at www.misterpotatoph.com.

Follow Mister Potato on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to get updates on contest announcements, symbol collection tips, and winner reveals.

Each unique symbol you find serves as a ticket to the weekly draws and the grand prize. The more symbols you collect, the better your chances of winning!

Pop Culture Meets Snack Innovation

This collaboration between Mister Potato and Squid Game 2 is a testament to the power of blending entertainment and consumer engagement. With Squid Game returning for a much-anticipated second season, Mister Potato aims to capture fans’ excitement and turn it into an unforgettable brand experience.

“Collaborating with Squid Game 2 felt like a natural fit for Mister Potato. Both our brand and the series have legions of loyal fans, and this contest allows us to bring something truly exciting and unique to both audiences,” said How Yuan Yi, Chief Marketing Officer of Mister Potato. “We’ve combined the thrill of watching Squid Game with the fun of enjoying a snack, offering fans a chance to win fantastic rewards along the way.”

By linking its signature snack with one of Netflix’s one of the most successful series, Mister Potato taps into the growing trend of experiential marketing, where brands create memorable, interactive moments for their consumers.

Beyond Snacking: A Gateway to Adventure

The Crunch to Win campaign isn’t just about munching on crisps; it’s about being part of a global phenomenon. The collaboration celebrates the best of both worlds—Mister Potato’s bold flavors and Squid Game’s gripping storytelling. Together, they’ve created a contest that takes consumer engagement to the next level.

“This collaboration with Netflix is about more than just cross-promotion,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about offering a new kind of experience, where our product becomes part of the fun and excitement of a global entertainment event. It’s not just a snack anymore; it’s a gateway to an adventure.”

Exclusive Canister Designs

The specially marked canisters are just as exciting as the prizes. Each flavor—Original, Sour Cream & Onion, Honey Cheese, Hot & Spicy, and Barbecue—features limited-edition Squid Game designs, making them collectible items for fans of the series. Whether you're a fan of the iconic Red Light, Green Light doll or the mysterious masked guards, these canisters add a touch of Squid Game to your snack shelf.

Your Chance to Be a Winner

Ready to crunch your way to South Korea? The Crunch to Win contest is your ticket to rewards that go beyond the snack aisle. With prizes designed for fans of both Mister Potato and Squid Game, this campaign offers a unique way to connect with your favorite snack brand while celebrating the cultural phenomenon that is Squid Game.

The contest is live from November 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to collect those symbols, rack up entries, and snag one of the amazing prizes.

For more information and contest mechanics, visit www.misterpotatoph.com. Be sure to follow Mister Potato on social media to stay updated on the latest announcements, winner highlights, and special promotions.

About MAMEE-Double Decker

MAMEE-Double Decker (M) Sdn Bhd was founded in 1971 when the late Group Executive Chairman, Datuk Pang Chin Hin started to produce dried noodles and vermicelli together with his eldest son, CEO, Tan Sri Pang Tee Chew. This small business, then known as Pacific Food Products and located in Ayer Keroh, Melaka set the wheels turning for what eventually became MAMEE-Double Decker. Datuk Pang’s other sons, COO Datuk Wira Pang Tee Nam and the late Pang Tee Suan, together with the rest of family – now in their 3rd generation – developed it into one of the largest food and beverage manufacturers in Malaysia. MAMEE-Double Decker was eventually incorporated in 1991. The company has set up plants across Malaysia – including in Kuala Lumpur and Kuantan, and currently employs over 2,000 staff – before expanding to Myanmar and Indonesia.

Facebook: Mister Potato Philippines

Instagram: @misterpotatophilippines

X: @MisterPotato_PH

TikTok: misterpotato_ph

Celebrate Friendsmas with Seattle’s Best Coffee’s new Caramel Pecan Collection

This holiday season, Seattle’s Best Coffee is turning up the festive cheer with the perfect way to celebrate “Friendsmas”—a time to gather with your closest friends and enjoy the warmth and joy of the season. And what better way to treat your friends than with the new Caramel Pecan Collection from Seattle’s Best Coffee? This collection is crafted to elevate your holiday gatherings with the delightful fusion of rich caramel and nutty pecan flavors in four irresistibly indulgent beverages.

The Caramel Pecan Collection is designed for those who want to savor the sweetness of the holidays with the people who matter most. Whether you’re catching up over coffee, exchanging gifts, or simply enjoying each other’s company, these drinks add a touch of festive flavor to your Friendsmas celebrations.

Iced Caramel Pecan: For a cool and refreshing treat, the Iced Caramel Pecan is your go-to drink. Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of pecan praline syrup, combination of cream and milk, sugar syrup, espresso, and ice cubes, this beverage is a refreshing way to enjoy your holiday hangouts, whether you’re out and about or relaxing at home with friends.

Caramel Pecan Javakula: When you want to impress your friends with something irresistibly creamy, the Caramel Pecan Javakula is the perfect choice. This ice-blended creation combines the exquisite sweetness of pecan praline syrup with the smooth texture of the Javakula, topped off with a swirl of whipped cream. It’s a delightful way to add some extra indulgence to your Friendsmas gatherings.

Caramel Pecan Javanilla: For those who have a sweet tooth, the Caramel Pecan Javanilla is the ultimate Friendsmas treat. Blending coffee ice cream with pecan praline syrup, low-fat milk, chilled water, and garnished with whipped cream, this drink is the perfect dessert in a cup to share with friends who love a little extra sweetness in their lives.

Hot Caramel Pecan: Nothing says cozy holiday vibes like the Hot Caramel Pecan. This warm and luscious beverage, made with pecan praline syrup, combination of cream and milk, sugar syrup, and an espresso shot, is ideal for those cold December nights when you’re catching up with friends and sharing stories over a cup of Seattle’s Best Coffee.

This holiday season, the best gifts are the ones you share with those who make your holidays brighter. Catch up with your friends over some Caramel Pecan—visit your nearest Seattle’s Best Coffee location and follow Seattle’s Best Coffee on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok to learn more.

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About Seattle’s Best Coffee:

 Seattle’s Best Coffee is dedicated to providing coffee lovers with the finest blends and exceptional service. Known for its rich, smooth coffee and welcoming atmosphere, Seattle’s Best Coffee continues to innovate and delight its customers with new and exciting offerings. Learn more at <seattlesbest.com.ph>

Call for Submission: Horror Anthology

Destiny Pen Publishing invites all Horror Writers to submit your best horror short stories for an Anthology Collection. There’s no set theme—any spine-chilling tale is welcome, from haunted houses to paranormal encounters, psychological horror, or supernatural mysteries. Let your creativity roam free!

Deadline: December 30, 2024

Word Count: 3,000 to 5,000 words

Language: Taglish

Submit your story through our Google Form by: https://forms.gle/GmmvFkB7LCfpVo9H7

Make them shiver, make them scream, and be part of this haunting anthology!