Casa de Memoria pays tribute to Philippine painters

Segundo, the 20th auction for Lhuillier-managed Casa de Memoria presents close to 300 lots of fine European objets d’art and collectibles. The online auction completes two days of offerings from the weekend of May 30 to 31 using Invaluable as its platform. Proceeds from the online event will support the construction of the emergency quarantine facility (EQF) at Sta. Ana Hospital, Manila.

The auction house joins other local art and culture venues as it presents a veritable selection that entices the connoisseurs who remain home with the Enhanced Community Quarantine. The curatorial team has put on display items—from portraiture, to furnishings and silver—thus, enhancing a well-lived home style. The Casa De Memoria salutes the frontliners in this two-day virtual auction.

Spotlighted are artworks by three well-respected painters: Tabuena, Alcuaz, and Westendorp de Brias. Romeo Tabuena’s (1921-2015) Still Life (Lot 002) is tribute to the international artist’s affair with cubism, painted in 1995. Still Life with Vase and Glass Center (Lot 026) by National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz (1932-2011), is an oil on canvas still life by the painter, acknowledged as Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts, Painting, Sculpture and Mixed Media.

Prolific painter Betsy Westendorp de Brias’ (b. 1927) “Summer Nights in Madrid” (Lot 024) finds its way to the Casa De Memoria auction book. The oil on canvas is reminiscent of her style. In an interview with Provenance Gallery owner Joanna Preysler for Metro Style, she notes “Betsy’s works are a soothing, healing balm—a much-needed treat for the soul and for the eyes especially in this time of chaos and disorder.  She’s very constant and dedicated to her art. …She was born to be a painter. And she knew it. And she worked on it and she got where she wanted to get.” Westendorp is a Lazo de Dama de la Orden de Isabel la Catolica awardee, bestowed by King Juan Carlos, and a Presidential Medal of Merit for Art and Culture grantee, given by former President Gloria M. Arroyo.

A unique offering that raises the Casa De Memoria diverse auction curation is a lithograph (Lot 009) by Spanish painter Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) of  historical poster of the exhibition “Sala Gaspar, Drawings by Picasso, April 1961,” with hand-made drawings by the artist. Signed in plate and dated 1961. In limited edition of 500 copies. It will be remembered that on Auction 17, another Picasso was made available and sold at PHP 280,000.00.

Casa de Memoria’s Segundo Auction will be held on May 31, 2020 at Palacio de Memoria, 95 Roxas Boulevard, Brgy. Tambo, Paranaque City. Online bidding powered by Invaluable. Proceeds will go to funding the construction of an emergency quarantine facility (EQF) in Sta. Ana Hospital, Manila. For more information, email hello@casadememoria.com or message +63 949 196 1813.

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Cardinal Cakes Lets You Continue Celebrating Life Amid Health Crisis

Living life is about celebrating the special moments. Let’s continue honoring our happy occasions in fun and extraordinary ways at home. Cardinal Cakes brings us back to those carefree days, when the streets were filled with joy and smiles were all around. Now more than ever, Cardinal Cakes celebrate the special ways that connect us.

Their cakes hark back to those days,like the rich and decadent Dark Chocolate Cake, the delectable Walnut Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, and the sublime and luxurious Red Velvet Cake.

Cardinal Cakes deliver right to your doorsteps via Grab or Lalamove. Fuss-free and hassle-free, so you can concentrate on the precious moments full of love and laughter. Never miss out on enjoying a joyful and safe celebration with your family at home.

To order, please contact 0905-420-4030 or 8821-0057. You can also reach Cardinal Cakes via Facebook Messenger at m.me/CardinalCuisine. Keep up to date with Cardinal Cakes’ latest offering by following them on @CardinalCuisine on Facebook and Instagram.

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Moms, lift up your spirits this Mother’s Day

This year’s Mother’s Day is unlike any Mother’s Day celebration we’ve experienced. Moms are quarantined at home, and are probably falling into a pattern where our entire days are spent makeup-less and in-house clothes and pajamas. But stick out your chins, mommies, it’s time to dust off the gloom and be the cheerful celebrant.

As experts say, the way we dress has a connection with our emotions. So even while on lockdown, us moms can do these simple tips from Ever Bilena to help lift our spirits this Mother’s Day:

A sweep of confidence

Add more color on this special day by wearing your favorite makeup product like the ever-handy tints (see Ever Bilena Lip and Cheek Stain set only at P551). These multi-purpose tints can instantly boost your confidence as it adds color to your eyes, cheeks and lips for a quick but natural transformation.

Quality time with children

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to bond with family over fun activities. While there are many options to choose from, why not start by learning a new makeup technique with your daughter, like a cat eye using EB Matte Dip Liner (P180). This way, you are hitting two birds in one stone: acquiring a new skill and looking picture-ready on this special occasion.

Self-care for self-love

Sometimes it’s good to reward yourself for all the hard work that you do for yourself and the family. Treat yourself this Mother’s Day with online shopping! Searching for affordable finds? Go for EB’s Lip Sampler Set (P627) exclusively available on Ever Bilena’s official page on Lazada (http://bit.ly/eblazada).

Mother’s Day celebration this year may be unique, but moms should look and feel their best no matter what!

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Adapting to the new normal: Fintech is bedrock of digital services as PH fights pandemic

The pandemic has changed the way Filipinos deal with everyday life. Today, services are now delivered through digital platforms, and adjusting to this new reality may come in with some form of learning curves.

Now, Filipinos are advised to leverage digital technologies and smartphone apps in conducting day-to-day activities to reduce their risks of contracting COVID-19 outside their homes. For most, working from home has become the new normal, and social interaction is now being done through social networking sites and messaging apps.

Some Filipinos also have turned to online marketplaces for their groceries, medicines, and other supplies, and some have also maximized the use of food delivery apps and ordering services to minimize their time outside of their homes.

Suddenly, many parts of the Philippines have become powered by the digital realm, and payments are now being coursed through digital finance. Today, more and more Filipinos are embracing digital finance, seeing the value that it brings versus conventional cash.

GCash, the leading mobile wallet in the Philippines, alone saw app installations grow by 2x during the community quarantine, while registrations rose by 2.5x, and app referrals increased by another 2x.

“In a world where digital is the new normal, financial technology should be considered the bedrock of digital services. Through digital finance, people have the power to pay for goods and services without the need for physical cash. Aside from the convenience, it is also less risky than cash handling, more efficient than physical payments, and is also very transparent,” GCash Chief Technology and Operations Officer Pebbles Sy said.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has been promoting the use of digital payments for almost a decade now, adopting several key policies and programs like the National Retail Payments System, and the creation of automated clearing houses for more seamless transactions.

This huge push for digital finance has given birth to a new working target of migrating cash transactions to non-cash. Now, the government aims to increase the share of cashless transactions to 30 percent of the total transaction from the original target of 20 percent.

GCash has been supportive of this shared goal, and has made it easier for Filipinos to adapt into the new normal. Aside from the easier know-your-customer (KYC) process, GCash also offers Filipinos a convenient and very affordable way to transact with merchants both online and offline. Likewise, GCash users may use their digital wallets to pay for bills and government dues, as well as transfer money to almost anyone with a bank or non-bank account.

“We want our customers to be able to use GCash to its full potential. The app has multiple features that would help ease the burden of the average Filipino, from paying their utilities to sending money to their relatives in the provinces. Contactless payments are preferred by many merchants, especially during this time where long lines crowd banks and other shops,” Sy said.

With GCash, a simple tap and click would suffice in accomplishing everyday tasks, making financial services more accessible to anyone with a smartphone. Through contactless payments, Filipinos are able to reduce exposure, preventing the spread of the virus from the exchange of money and the use of cards.

Partnering with over 70,000 merchants nationwide, going cashless is an option GCash easily offers, with over 20 million users availing of services like QR code payments, bills payments, and even credit services.

“During this difficult period, GCash stays true to its mission of staying connected. Our services are important, now more than ever, as the Filipino looks for ways to minimize exposure to the virus,” Sy said.

Another service GCash has put in place during this crisis is the ability to help, offering a quick and easy way to donate to frontline workers and other marginalized sectors.

“We’ve also made it easier for the Filipino to help those who are most affected by this global health crisis. Truly, this day and age is now powered by the digital arena, and we all have to learn and adapt to it, as long as this new normal persists,” Sy said.

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LG Launches new line of commercial air-conditioners designed to combat air pollution

As technology, innovation, and industry continue to grow at a steady pace, companies have set their focus on proactively combatting environmental issues and climate change, both for their customers, as well as their corporate social responsibility. One of the biggest, perhaps most dangerous issue is air pollution. In fact, the European Heart Journal announced 8.8 million annual premature deaths from air pollution. This number is more than 6 million deaths caused by smoking each year.

The new LG 1-Way cassette equipped with a 4-step air purification process designed to combat air pollution.

Recognizing the immediate need for clean air, especially in institutions where there’s always large groups of people for long periods of time, LG launches their new air purifying cassettes that have exercised the company’s technological capabilities and enable to filter out the smallest particles among the conventional products in the market. LG’s new air purifying cassettes will be good news not only for hospitals, schools, kindergartens, and nursing facilities for air purification but also for building owners of retail shops and restaurants. LG offers more choices to building owners and consultants with the new 1 Way and 4 Way cassette options, which gives them the versatility to pick based on design or budget considerations.

Both of the new LG cassettes feature the 4-step air purification process: Pre-Filter, Dust Electrification, Ultrafine Dust Filter, and Deodorization Filter. In the first step, the multi-layer structure of Pre-filter removes the particle, which has 2.5x higher efficiency than general pre-filters. Next up, Dust Electrification increases the electrostatic force of particles, improving the filter’s collecting efficiency. Third is eliminating even the slightest dust level of PM1.0 ultrafine particles with the Ultrafine Dust Filter. Lastly, Deodorization Filter removes odor and harmful gases with high-efficiency gas absorption technology.

The new 4 Way Cassette has been tested its removal performance by King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) in Thailand and guaranteed with a CAC Certification from Korea Air Cleaning Association (KACA).

According to the air purification performance testing result from KACA, LG’s new cassette showed Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 19.1 m3/min, which is much higher than the standard CADR of 10.0 m3/min. Also, the product got the result of 63% Harmful Gas Removal Efficiency.

The new LG 4-Way cassette equipped with a 4-step air purification process to combat air pollution.

In addition, indoor panels are built in to minimize space needed for installation, allowing wider use of indoor space without taking up the floor space. Also, it can be used semi-permanently by using easily removable handles and washable filters. This means that installation and maintenance are easier compared to traditional methods. To satisfy the needs of monitoring and controlling air conditions, the air purifying cassette has an indoor LED lamp, a wired remote control, and ThinQ application allows real-time monitoring as well as IAQ control. The function of monitoring the air quality in real-time will be a very practical capability in the segment where air quality management is vital.

LGEPH Vice President for Air Conditioners and Energy Solutions Mr. Young Park emphasized “With our commitment to innovating for the future, we foresee that air purifying air-conditioners will become a necessary requisite for commercial segments,” saying, “We will continue to implement the world’s best HVAC system with LG’s innovative technology to preserve the global environment and create a healthy living environment.”

For more information regarding LG’s new 4-step air purifying process, please watch this video in LG’s facebook page. To find out more about the new 4 Way cassette, please visit LG’s Global Air Solutions microsite.

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A star-studded online launch for Central by Landers delivery service

Landers Superstore has introduced its new online food delivery service, Central by Landers, with a star-studded show streamed via Facebook Live.

Hosted by actress Rhian Ramos, the launch of Central by Landers featured guest appearances by some of the country's biggest stars, including Jericho Rosales, Matteo Guidicelli, Marco Gumabao, and Ryan Bang.

The show also had special performances by Ylona Garcia, Kyline Alcantara, AC Bonifacio, and Kyle Echarri.

There were also fun games and surprises where live viewers were able to win delicious food and other prizes.

Central by Landers is a website for ordering food from various brands owned by Unido Holdings, so that customers can satisfy their cravings while practicing social distancing. These food brands include Popeyes, Kuya J, New York at Landers Central, Isla Sugbu Seafood City, Da Gianni Cucina Italiana, Dough and Co., and Majestic.

Ordering from these restaurants can be done by simply visiting www.centraldelivery.ph. The delivery service of Central by Landers is available from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM in select serviceable areas in Muntinlupa, Alabang, Sucat, Pasig, Ortigas Center, Makati, Mandaluyong, and Eastwood.

For inquiries, you may reach Central by Landers via Facebook Messenger by going to m.me/CentralDeliveryPH. You can also rewatch the online launch and get the latest updates on www.facebook.com/centraldelivery.

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SM Builds Seven Emergency Quarantine Facilities in Metro Manila

The interior of one of the Camp Crame facilities, which like the rest features beds, airconditioning units, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, restrooms, shower areas, and nurse lounges

SM, through SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), recently constructed seven (7) insulated emergency quarantine facilities (EQFs) in Pasay and Quezon City to house and treat patients affected by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Built by the SM Engineering Design and Development (SM EDD) team, and WTA Architecture and Design Studio, these include four facilities in Camp Crame and two facilities at the AFP Health Service Command – V. Luna in Quezon City; as well as one at the Air Force General Hospital – Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Completed within a span of six to ten days, these feature a total of 156 beds, air conditioning units, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, restrooms, shower areas, and nurse lounges. The EQFs are set to accommodate COVID-19 patients who are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms.

In the Camp Crame EQFs, each bed has a built-in call system and patients will have an access to Wi-Fi connectivity. PNP chief Gen. Archie Gamboa thanked SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr. and WTA Architecture and Designs for their contributions to the facility.

Apart from contributing to the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, this social initiative also served as a platform for volunteeriSM for SM employees, especially those from SM EDD.

Each bed in the Camp Crame EQFs has a built-in call system and patients will
have access to Wi-Fi connectivity

Completed within a span of six to ten days, these feature a total of 156 beds, air conditioning units, ceiling fans, exhaust fans, restrooms, shower areas, and nurse lounges. The EQFs are set to accommodate COVID-19 patients who are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms.

In the Camp Crame EQFs, each bed has a built-in call system and patients will have an access to Wi-Fi connectivity. PNP chief Gen. Archie Gamboa thanked SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr. and WTA Architecture and Designs for their contributions to the facility.

Apart from contributing to the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, this social initiative also served as a platform for volunteeriSM for SM employees, especially those from SM EDD.

SM EDD and WTA Architecture and Design Studio built four facilities in Camp Crame in Quezon City

Through the EQF project, SM EDD employees were able to volunteer their time and expertise in constructing the insulated EQFs, an initiative that has received encouragement and strong support from the President of SM EDD, Hans ‘Chico’ Sy Jr.

SMFI’s Leadership Team expressed gratitude to SM EDD volunteers for carrying out its purpose and commitment to provide EQFs to its partners in the uniformed service. “We have courageous employee volunteers from SM EDD, sharing their expertise and time amidst COVID-19. We’re proud to support their contribution during this time of incredible need,” the team added.

SM Foundation also thanked its partners, the Air Force General Hospital, AFP Health Service Command and the WTA Architecture and Design Studio, as “saving lives is critical during this pandemic.”

The building of insulated EQFs is one of SM’s initiatives in line with its commitment to be of service to the Filipino public, its hospitals, and government during the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier, SM, through SM Foundation donated over PHP170 million worth of personal protective equipment, testing kits, and intensive care unit (ICU-grade) ventilators to over 100 hospitals and medical institutions.

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6 newborn care tips during quarantine that you need to know

Make the most of the time you have at home to bond with your baby.

Being a new mom is a big milestone and having a baby brings happiness beyond measure. However, if you gave birth to your first child recently, things might be a bit different for you because of the enhanced community quarantine. Aside from the new maternity responsibilities, fear and anxiety over the pandemic may increase stress levels. You may find yourself standing in the most joyful yet toughest time of your life.  

As the world celebrates strong, loving mothers, AXA Philippines is here to give a few tips for new moms so that you can enjoy this life stage, while minimizing the stress amid the pandemic.

Do not be afraid to ask for help. Encourage your partner to be involved with some tasks like changing the diaper or putting the baby to sleep. You can also ask for support from your mother, in-laws, or friends who are also moms. They will understand your situation and provide support. However, when things get out of hand, you should have direct access to 24/7 emergency help. You can easily do so with AXA Rescue Line through the Emma by AXA app. Rescue Line is a service which provides AXA policyholders and even non-AXA customers 24/7 free access to emergency assistance. You can download the Emma by AXA app on the Google Play or App Store.

Stock up on essentials responsibly. Baby essentials are hot commodities during this time. When you go to the grocery store, avoid hoarding and only get what your baby needs so other moms can take care of their babies, too. If your local stores run out of stocks, look for other options such as reputable online sellers or eco-friendly alternatives like cloth diapers. Many of the online sellers are Filipina mommy entrepreneurs so you’ll be supporting local businesses and fellow moms.

Establish visiting rules. No matter how much you want to show off your baby, keep in mind there is an ongoing pandemic. At this time, limit “visits” to online chats and viewing. Even among household members, make sure they wash hands and wear face masks when holding baby. Given the current situation, one can never be too cautious when it comes to protecting your baby from the virus or other germs.  

Set safety and hygiene routines. Take advantage of your time indoors to clean your house to mitigate the risk of exposing your baby to harmful viruses. Always wash your hands properly before handling your baby. It’s also best to disinfect your home using baby-friendly sanitizing solutions and cleaning wipes, paying special attention to your baby’s surroundings.  

Keep your baby safe while he sleeps. Avoid placing blankets, stuffed toys, and pillows in cribs as they increase the risk of suffocation. Babies also tend to wake up in the middle of the night, so it is best to put your baby’s crib in the same bedroom as you. To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, place them on their backs when they sleep but try to alternate the position of their head to prevent a flat spot.

Get enough rest. Pandemic or not, new moms should never neglect themselves. Try to get enough rest throughout the day. Sleep while baby is sleeping and avoid negative thoughts that might add to the stress of caring for a newborn baby. Remember, your body is still recoving from childbirth so practice self-care and be kind to yourself.

Enjoy this precious time with your newborn. Make the most of the time you have at home to bond with your baby. The first few months of baby’s life is the best opportunity to build a bond between you and your newborn. Take advantage of this period and enjoy it.

For more information on Rescue Line, visit https://axa.com.ph/.

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Samsung QLED TVs Receive Safety Verification from Leading Safety Certification Institutes

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced recently its QLED 8K and 4K TVs have received “no photobiological LED hazard” verifications from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a leading safety science company in the U.S., and “eye safety” certification from Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE) in Germany. Samsung becomes the first in the TV industry to receive verifications proving that various types of lights emitted by its QLED TVs pose no photobiological LED hazard, based on classifications under the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)’s standards for photobiological safety and eye.

Both safety certification institutions, UL and VDE, tested the 65Q900T 8K model and 65Q90T 4K models – both of which emit the brightest light among Samsung’s 2020 QLED TV lineup – for their blue light, ultraviolet rays and infrared rays.

“While Samsung QLED TVs emit high luminance and brightness, our TVs are designed to protect the eyesight without losing the truly immersive viewing experience,” said Yong Hoon Choi, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “We are pleased to be recognized by UL and VDE for these efforts and will continue to make the safety of our customers a top priority as we develop our products.”

For more information on Samsung’s QLED 8K and 4K TV lineup, please visit www.samsung.com

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PLDT Enterprise provides Philippine Army COVID-19 quarantine sites with free connectivity

As part of its continuous efforts to support the country’s response to COVID-19, PLDT Enterprise deploys free connectivity support to the quarantine areas covered by the Philippine Army.

All quarantine areas manned by uniformed personnel in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila for COVID-19 patients now have business-grade fiber internet which leverages on PLDT Group’s most expansive fiber optic network in the country. The COVID-19 quarantine areas include Philippine Army Wellness Center, Gate 5 Barracks, SOQ TRADOC Building, and Libingan ng mga Bayani.

“We at PLDT Enterprise extend support to the Philippine Army in order to strengthen their capabilities in responding to the battle against COVID-19. This service enables health professionals deployed at COVID-19 treatment facilities to be informed of the latest information and stay connected to their families,” said Jovy I. Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP & Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups.

The fiber-grade connectivity will allow the army personnel to remain informed of the latest news about the coronavirus, and likewise will enable COVID-19 patients in the quarantine areas to keep in touch with their loved ones.

The initiative is just one of PLDT’s endeavors to enable uniformed personnel with connectivity support. The group’s wireless subsidiary Smart Communications recently provided 540 smartphones loaded with voice, SMS and data packages for the Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel at lockdown checkpoints.

“We would like to express our sincerest gratitude for the services the PLDT Group has extended to the Philippine Army in line with our efforts to address the threats of COVID-19,” said Philippine Army Colonel (SC) MNSA PA Mark Edwin B. Moro. “We salute you for not hesitating to provide the services to the Philippine Army. We hope and pray that we can overcome this crisis at the soonest time possible.”

PLDT Enterprise also recently deployed free connectivity to other COVID-19 facilities in Luzon such as World Trade Center and Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay and Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.

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• Grab has furthered its commitment to the Filpino communities as it introduced several innovations and initiatives that aim to actively protect those who are vulnerable and serving on the frontlines, and supporting those who are staying at home to flatten the curve.

• While many companies respond to the crisis by donating cash, Grab has chosen to respond to the call of the pandemic by transforming its platform, re-focusing its resources, and banding together with its partners – both from the private and public sectors towards easing some of the toughest pain points brought by the pandemic.

As the COVID-19 pandemic impacted countless communities, disrupted many ways of life, and evidently slowed down the economy, Grab furthered its commitment of supporting the Filipino communities by doing what it does best – innovating for the greater good. Such innovations may have been daunting for many as the public health situation remains fluid, and the government has been doing its level best to flatten the curve.

With the suspension of public transportation in Metro Manila and other key cities across the country, Grab had to suspend a significant portion of its business – its GrabCar services. However, the desire to meaningfully contribute towards protecting and supporting the communities who have been greatly impacted by the pandemic has never been greater for Grab.

Owing to its deep understanding of the Filipino community, Grab responded to the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic with the spirit of camaraderie through GrabBayanihan; and immediately used its technology and resources to (1) actively protect those who are vulnerable and serving on the frontlines, and (2) support those who are staying at home to flatten the curve.

Actively protecting those who are vulnerable and serving on the frontlines

Since the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine, Grab has worked in tandem with its local government partners to support health care workers and front liners by providing free-of-charge mobility solutions in the form of GrabWheels – Grab’s e-scooter service. Close to 100 units of GrabWheels have been deployed across twelve (12) key cities  (Manila, Quezon City, Marikina, San Juan, Pasig, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay, Cainta, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Davao) across the country, with more than 150 units of GrabWheels awaiting deployment to other LGUs and hospitals.

To assist local government units in distributing food and medical supplies within their cities, Grab has also developed specialized car delivery fleets that were deployed to the city governments of Quezon City, Caloocan, Muntinlupa, Pasig, and Pasay. Since its deployment, this specialized delivery fleet has been supporting the local government units for free.

Grab has also used its platform to rally its users and communities by developing several donation streams and mechanics using either GrabRewards points or GrabPay. Grab was successful in harnessing the power of its platform and raised almost PHP 9M, which was used to purchase and donate almost 3,300 PPEs and 36,000 meals for the benefit of those serving on the frontlines, and more than 1,500  food bags for those who are vulnerable and greatly impacted by the pandemic.

Supporting those who are staying at home helping flatten the curve

As many Filipinos adjust their daily routines by staying at home, Grab has introduced significant innovations that aim to provide access to daily essentials and create a sense of normalcy to the lives of many impacted by the pandemic.

With the introduction of Grab’s contactless delivery policy, Grab was able to safely deliver meals, medicine, and other necessities to those staying at home and coping with the enhanced community quarantine measures. Within weeks, Grab was able to introduce a new service – GrabExpress Pabili to help buy daily necessities such as medicine and other essentials for those unable to leave their homes most especially the PWDs and Senior Citizens. Grab was also able to serve more households and communities as it continues to expand its GrabExpress services to Iloilo, Davao, Pampanga, and Bacolod.

Grab has also made cashless payments more convenient and secure for those staying at home as it expands to more cashless services. Through Grab’s tech innovation, users can now pay their bills, send money to their loved ones, or pay for food and parcel deliveries straight from the Grab app on their mobile phones.

In a time where queuing for groceries might be challenging to many, Grab made it more convenient for Filipinos to shop for daily essentials on-demand with the introduction of its GrabMart service. Now, users can simply shop for their groceries without leaving the safety of their homes.

To help provide timely and relevant public service announcements to the residents of Manila and Pasig, Grab has dedicated around PhP 2M-worth of advertising space on the Grab app to serve as an information conduit to these city governments.

“As we all cope to the disruption brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Grab has always been focused on contributing to the solution and we have chosen the path of innovation to help our kababayans – those who are serving on the frontlines, those who were left vulnerable, and those who were staying at home doing their part to flatten the curve. If there is one thing that we have learned from this crisis, it is that our humanity and care for one another has never been stronger, and that is evident in the overwhelming support that we have exchanged for one another,” says Brian Cu, Grab Philippines President. “As we chart our paths to the new normal, let us remember that the spirit of bayanihan endures in all of us and that it is our duty to keep it alive in the generations to come,” adds Cu.

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Frontliners for frontliners

Frontliners from CPFI, Shakey’s, Peri Peri, and Frontline Feeders Philippines deliver meal packs to healthcare frontliners from (top to bottom) Manila Doctors, Las Pinas General Hospital, Philippine General Hospital, and St. Clare’s Medical Center staff

Frontliners from the country’s foremost food brands, together with an NGO that mobilizes food distribution to different hospitals in the Metro and neighboring cities, have come together to provide support and nourishment to those who have been similarly working the frontlines.

Employees from the Century Pacific Group, Shakey’s Pizza (Shakey’s), Peri Peri Charcoal Chicken (Peri-Peri), and Century Pacific Food (Century), together with Frontline Feeders Philippines (FFP) have joined forces to provide more than 100,000 meal packs to Filipino healthcare workers in over 90 hospitals and facilities in Metro Manila and nearby cities.

Showing a great example of teamwork, each team member makes a significant contribution in this initiative. Century provides processed meats, manages the hospital list, and coordinates with the hospitals on a daily basis. FFP provides the network of hospitals and collects regular information on which hospitals need help the most. Finally, Shakey’s and Peri Peri provide meat products, bake bread daily, and does the actual delivery.

Each snack is freshly made, filling, and nutritious. The selection includes freshly baked marinated beef buns, hotdog rolls, ham and cheese flatbreads, pepperoni and cheese flatbreads, as well as ham buns. 

The partnership also ensures the right amount of food is delivered at the right time to avoid food waste and spoilage. The meals are meant for merienda or snack, and are individually wrapped so that medical frontliners may eat them when they need a mid-shift gap fill to power them through. 

Since the program’s start last April 7, it has thus far provided100,000 meal packs to 90 hospitals and health facilities around Metro Manila, and there are plans to do more.

“Century, Shakeys, Peri, and Frontline Feeders have come together – each with its own unique resources, capacity, and skills – to extend help in the best way we know how. It’s the least we can do to take care of the people who regularly put their lives at risk as they work bravely and tirelessly to save those infected by the virus,” said Century Pacific’s Nikki Dizon, the initiative’s project lead.

She added, “For the Century Pacific Group in particular, composed primarily of food businesses, nourishing our medical frontliners through freshly prepared food is another meaningful way to live out our mission and vision as a company.”

Century Pacific Food is one of the largest branded food companies in the Philippines, behind household names Century Tuna, Argentina, 555, Birch Tree, and Swift. Shakey’s Pizza is both the Philippines’ largest pizza chain and leading full-service restaurant. Peri-Peri is an emerging fast casual brand in the Philippines known for its grilled chicken and a variety of sauces.

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Celebrating Mother’s Day during lockdown

Put a big smile on Mom’s face this Mother’s Day

Lockdown or no lockdown, we need to celebrate Mother’s Day to let our mom know how much we appreciate her support and sacrifices for the family. But since we can’t call her friends or have a big party during the pandemic, we need to find ways to make mom feel loved and pampered on this special day.  

With just a little planning and creativity, Solane, the country’s leading LPG solutions company, shares these easy and fun ideas to put a big smile on Mom’s face come Mother’s Day.

Breakfast in bed. Start off Mother’s Day by waking up early (before mom wakes up!) and cooking her breakfast. This early, make a plan to order or set aside ingredients for her breakfast favorites so that they will be ready for the occasion. On the morning of Mother’s Day, line up your ingredients, turn on your gas stove and start cooking! Make sure there’s something on the breakfast tray to make her smile – a small bouquet of flowers, a greeting card or a note from everyone in the family. 

Set up a virtual party. You may be far away from your relatives but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate Mother’s Day together. Host a virtual party through video call and share a toast to the moms in your family who live in different parts of the country or the world.

Play fun games. Enjoy simple activities to get the whole family active or creative. Divide the family in groups and enjoy fun and competitive games such as charades, Pictionary, or trivia quizzes. Try putting a spin on the games by coming up with mom-related questions or themes.

Put together a care package. Our moms would definitely appreciate tangible mementos to show her how much we love them. The care package doesn’t have to be expensive or grand — it could be do-it-yourself greeting cards and self-care products like scented candles and soaps that you can easily make with the help of online tutorials.

Treat her to a D-I-Y spa day. Give your mom a much-needed facial using natural ingredients at home. For instance, you can cleanse her face by dampening it with water and then spreading honey all over it to leave the skin feeling soft, smooth and supple. You can also opt to achieve the same effect on her skin by exfoliating with a facial scrub. To make one at home, try combining one teaspoon ground oatmeal with a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of olive oil. Massage on her face and then rinse.

Make this year’s Mother’s Day celebration a unique and memorable one by following these simple ideas from Solane. For more information on Solane, visit www.solane.com.ph.

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