Friday, November 15, 2024

Rex Education Enhances Digital Learning Solutions with Schoology and First Eduspec Inc.


Today’s learners face considerable challenges; their learning journey was set back several years by the global pandemic that halted face-to-face classes from March 2020 (the first implementation of community quarantines) to November 2022 (when the Department of Education, or DepEd, ordered a full return to school-based learning). According to UNICEF, Filipino learners missed more learning opportunities compared to their global counterparts, as the Philippines was among the last countries to reopen in-person classes—effectively putting Filipino learners at a significant disadvantage.

This situation is concerning, with Filipino learners collectively ranking 77th among 81 countries in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings released in December 2023—an indication that many have been left behind. However, this disheartening situation of the Filipino learner also presents an opportunity for education stakeholders—parents, teachers, school leaders, and academic publishers—the whole learning community, to unite and give the country’s millions of learners (18,370,310 in the public school system alone, according to DepEd’s data for school year 2024–2025) the support they need to overcome this disadvantage and so they can thrive and succeed.
Rex Education, the country’s leading academic publisher for over seven decades and a vital stakeholder in the education sector, takes the challenge. REX has championed the Filipino learner since its founding in the 1950s, initially selling—and then publishing—textbooks and other scholastic materials that have long been staples in every classroom nationwide. These are all available at Rex E-Store (https://estore.rex.com.ph/), the company’s one-stop online store for quality learning solutions.
As the digital age emerged, ushering in distance learning, Rex Education responded accordingly by launching Schoology in 2015, one of the Philippines’ very first learning management systems (LMS). Rex Education’s Schoology represents the classroom of the future—fully digital and rich with innovative features that make learning easy, accessible, fun, and challenging.
“Technology cannot be an add-on; it’s a necessity,” Rex Education stated in a media release announcing the launch of Schoology. “Flexible learning is not a privilege or an advantage; it’s a necessity. Certainly, future-proofing our classrooms, although it cannot be perfected, is an imperative.”
That press release proved prescient 5 years later, as digital classrooms like Rex Education’s Schoology became integral to advancing education during a time when traditional classes were closed indefinitely. Moreover, Rex Education expanded Schoology, making it accessible to more learners nationwide, adding additional resources to the platform, and introducing new features and capabilities.
Now, with the pandemic in the rearview, Schoology remains an educational powerhouse, advocating for the Filipino learner in this age of hybrid education by enhancing traditional learning environments and providing 21st-century learning experiences. With traditional modalities infused with digital tools, today’s learners can embark on the challenging journey of making up for lost years while also preparing for a technology-focused future.
However, Filipino learners still have significant ground to cover, particularly in math and science, where they ranked near the bottom in the same PISA 2022 rankings. Rex Education, through First Eduspec Inc. (FEI), helps address this gap by offering a comprehensive ICT and robotics curriculum that can enrich the learning opportunities and experiences of today’s learners and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.
While today’s Filipino learners may be disadvantaged, they can achieve more and reach their full potential with the right support. This is a challenge to all the sector’s stakeholders—an urgent call to action—and Rex Education continues to rise to the occasion, para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

ATEEZ RELEASE THEIR 11TH EP “GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2”

THE OCTET WRITES THE SECOND STORY TO THEIR LATEST MUSIC SERIES, CAPTURING THEIR MOST CHERISHED MOMENTS IN AN EP FEATURING SIX SONGS - LED BY THE TITLE TRACK “ICE ON MY TEETH”.



Global K-pop sensation ATEEZ continues to solidify their legacy, capturing their moments of artistic exploration and maturity through the release of their 11th EP, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2. The EP is out now via Sony Music Korea/RCA Records – click here to listen.

GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 showcases ATEEZ’s diverse musicality with a dynamic mix of tracks that push genre boundaries and take listeners on an emotional journey. The album invites fans to experience the “golden hour” of ATEEZ’s musical growth, enchanting audiences with the sheer grandeur of the preview teasers even before release. The title track, ‘Ice On My Teeth’, is an anthem that underscores ATEEZ’s unique sound, with soaring vocals, and choreography that will thrill audiences worldwide.

In addition to the title track, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 features a total of six songs, each capturing the group’s evolution and experimental style. The album embodies the intense, raw energy that has made ATEEZ an international powerhouse in the K-pop industry.

GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2 is so quintessentially ATEEZ, with members HONGJOONG and MINGI taking part in writing the lyrics for five out of the six tracks on the album. The EP is infused with a unique charm that only the octet can pull off.

This 11th EP release comes after a record breaking year of achievements and performances, from their featured exhibition at the GRAMMY Museum and the Coachella 2024 performance early in the year to their subsequent performances in major festivals around the world including Summer Sonic in Japan, and headlining at Grand Mint Festival in Korea and Mawazine in Morocco.

Known for their genre-defying sound and unique artistic approach, they’ve created a distinct presence in the music industry. The group continues to rise to even higher peaks, releasing their new EP to high anticipation.

 

LISTEN TO ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2’  HERE

[GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2] TRACK LIST

01. DEEP DIVE

02. Scene 1 : Value

03. Ice On My Teeth **title track**

04. Man on Fire

05. Selfish Waltz

06. Enough

 

This EP comes following the announcement of their Europe [TOWARDS THE LIGHT : WILL TO POWER] world tour, after the conclusion of the North American leg of the tour. ATEEZ will be heading to 12 cities from January to February in Europe. Known for their intense and immersive performances, the group is ready to deliver an unforgettable show with intricate choreography, captivating visuals, and deep fan interaction.

 

2025 ATEEZ WORLD TOUR [TOWARDS THE LIGHT : WILL TO POWER] IN EUROPE Dates:

January 18 - Lyon-Décines – LDLC Arena

January 20 - Milan – Unipol Forum

January 23 - Zürich – Hallenstadion

January 27 - London – The O2

January 28 - London – The O2  *second show*

January 30 - Manchester – AO Arena

February 03 - Amsterdam – Ziggo Dome

February 07 - Barcelona – Palau Sant Jordi

February 11 - Cologne – Lanxess Arena

February 14 - Copenhagen – Royal Arena

February 18 - Berlin – Uber Arena

February 19 - Berlin – Uber Arena  *second show*

February 22 - Paris – La Défense Arena

February 25 - Brussels – ING Arena



About ATEEZ:

ATEEZ, short for ‘A TEEnager Z’, is an eight-member South Korean group that has taken the world by storm immediately after their debut in October 2018. Known for standout performances, the octet have turned storytelling into a full musical experience. The eight members of ATEEZ are HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA, YUNHO, YEOSANG, SAN, MINGI, WOOYOUNG, and JONGHO. Though the initial meaning of their group name stood for ‘everything teenagers need from A to Z’, they have since evolved and grown as artists alongside their fans (named ATINY) to become ‘everything you need from A to Z’. Establishing themselves as top artists early on in their career with a sold out global tour only four months after their debut, they continue to break their own records. With a unique narrative that starts from the very first release in the ‘TREASURE’ album series and continues through the ‘FEVER’ and ‘THE WORLD’ masterpieces, the group combines bestseller narratives with personalized music that speaks to their generation. Beyond the multitude of titles they’ve earned throughout the years as the ‘Next Generation Act’ and ‘Best World Performer’ in award ceremonies, ATEEZ have attained the distinction of becoming a ‘million seller’ group with the release of their 8th EP. In 2024, they dominated on the global stage, taking over festivals around the world with performances at Coachella (US), Summer Sonic (JPN), and even headlining at Mawazine (MAR). Their second studio album, 'THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL' broke their personal record on the global charts, debuting at No.1 on the Billboard 200 for the week of December 11 and charting for six weeks. Their followup release ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.1’ continued the momentum, capturing No.2 on the Billboard 200 and ranking in at No.7 on the Billboard 2024’s Midyear Top 10 Selling Albums in U.S. The second chapter of their ‘GOLDEN HOUR’ series, ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.2’, led by the title track ‘Ice On My Teeth’, writes the stories of their most cherished moments.

 

About KQ Entertainment:

KQ Entertainment is a fast-growing global entertainment and content company based in South Korea that continuously evolves with the expanding domestic and overseas markets. Using a system that considers the characteristics and needs of musicians to better nurture artist development, the label aims to create a positive impact on the music industry. The system in practice creates a virtuous cycle that establishes a new paradigm of artist discovery, support, and production between idol groups and musicians for a mutually beneficial relationship growth in innovating music. KQ Entertainment currently houses the global phenomenon ATEEZ, rising superstars xikers, as well as top producers and artists EDEN and Maddox.

 


Subsonic Eye, Television Off, KAIA & More ASEAN Acts to Perform at ASEAN India Music Festival 2024

 

7 Southeast Asian acts will join beloved Indian music icons Raghu Dixit, Shaan, and many more at this year’s festival, which aims to highlight the region’s musical diversity but also emphasize the growing cultural ties between India and ASEAN


ASEAN-India Music Festival (AIMF) returns this year with a diverse lineup across India and Southeast Asia to celebrate a decade of India’s ‘Act East Policy.’ The 2024 edition will take place from November 29 to December 1, 6:30 PM onwards at the historic Purana Qila in New Delhi, India. Entry is free for all guests.

The festival kicks off with performances by two of India’s most beloved music icons, prominent folk music artist and highly sought-after singer-composer for Kannada cinema Raghu Dixit and the beloved "Golden Voice of India," Shaan.

On November 30, audiences can expect high-energy performances from rock band Western Ghats and the dynamic Bollywood twin-sister duo Sukriti-Prakriti. The festival will come to a grand conclusion on December 1 with a performance by award-winning singer-songwriter Jasleen Royal, whose heartfelt songs have won music fans all over the world.

In addition to highly anticipated sets from India’s top artists, the festival will also showcase performances from ASEAN music acts, offering audiences a chance to experience the rich, diverse sounds and creative musical traditions from across the Southeast Asian region.

Joining this year are T-pop band Television Off from Thailand, Hanoi rock pioneers Buc Tuong from Viet Nam, pop-rock icons Floor 88 from Malaysia, indie rock darlings Subsonic Eye from Singapore, pop singer Chet Kanhchna from Cambodia, MRTV from Myanmar, and girl group KAIA from the Philippines, among others. These performances will not only highlight the region’s musical diversity but also emphasize the growing cultural ties between India and ASEAN.

The ASEAN-India Music Festival also aims to showcase the deep cultural ties within the ASEAN-India comprehensive strategic partnership. As a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, the festival marks a decade of India’s ‘Act East Policy’ in action. Mr. S Jaishankar, the Minister of External Affairs, Government of India, joins the festivities as ASEAN-India Music Festival’s chief guest, as well as senior officials of Ministry of External Affairs, and the Heads of Missions from all 10 ASEAN Member States.

Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder Director of Seher, shared his thoughts on the upcoming festival, saying, “Music is much more than just a performance—it’s an expression of our shared humanity, our hopes, and our dreams. The ASEAN India Music Festival is a beautiful reminder that despite our different backgrounds, music has the power to unite us all. It allows us to connect not only as artists but as individuals who are part of a much larger global community. This festival is not just about showcasing talent, but about celebrating the bonds we’ve built over the years and the new ones we’ll form through the universal language of melody. Let’s forget what lines and borders separate us in this region and come together on this platform of music and celebrate what’s common between us.”

This year’s edition is all set to be a vibrant celebration of togetherness, creativity, and the unique way music brings us all closer, no matter our backgrounds. As the dates draw near, keep an eye out for more updates, and get ready to be part of a remarkable celebration of the connections we share through the power of music.

To learn more about ASEAN-India Music Festival, visit www.seher.in.




Ben&Ben unveil first-ever “animation-concert” hybrid

 

The nine-piece collective aims to revolutionize headline shows with an innovative mix of animation, film, and music performances


Filipino band Ben&Ben are set to redefine the live concert experience with an audio-visual extravaganza that seamlessly blends animation, film, and music performances into one immersive package. Their upcoming arena show, scheduled for December 14, 2024, at SM Mall of Asia Arena, promises to be a groundbreaking event in the local music scene.

 

Inspired by their highly anticipated third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, the concert will introduce a new dimension of storytelling, combining live music with cutting-edge multimedia elements. The upcoming album, which pushes the boundaries of traditional music releases, will serve as the foundation for this innovative concert, thematically and conceptually speaking.

 

Ben&Ben have partnered with a talented team of concert directors, designers, and multimedia artists to create an animation-concert hybrid that will transport the concert-going audience into a magical, world-building realm. Working alongside Puppeteer Studios, the Pagtingin hitmakers will also introduce a cast of unique characters and an immersive universe that promise to captivate the audience from start to finish.

 

“We’re thrilled to share the story of Liwanag, the titular character in The Traveller Across Dimensions,” the nine-piece act explains in a collective statement. “We’ve shown a glimpse of this story in our “Triumph” music video, but the concert will reveal the full narrative in a way that no one has seen before.”


This special concert is designed to exude a cinematic experience, integrating the excitement of a live performance with the confines of filmmaking. Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions concert aims to elevate the theatricality of their previous shows, hinting at exploring new, interactive technology to further enhance the show.

 

“It’s also the first time we will be incorporating Liwanag LED wristbands as part of the immersive experience,” the critically acclaimed act shares. “We are working with Pixmob, the same tech provider as some of the international concerts we’ve attended in the past.”

 

In terms of the set list, the concert will feature a dynamic mix of crowd favorites, personal picks, and new songs from their latest album. In keeping up with their signature style, Ben&Ben have meticulously arranged the lineup of songs to align with the overarching narrative. This helps in bringing an integrated storytelling experience to the live stage.

 

“It’s a delicate balance between staying true to what fans love and offering something new,” the band adds. “We’re excited to bring these songs to life in a way that’s never been done before.”

 

Tickets for Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions concert are now available via SM Tickets.

 

General Admission - P1,700

Upper Box - P2,700

Liwanag Standing - P3,200

Lower Box B - P3,700

Lower Box A - P4,700

Lower Box Premium - P7,700

Liwanag VIP Package - P7,700



Sunday, November 10, 2024

PBA Finals Game 1 Draws Massive Crowd

 

The much-anticipated PBA Governors’ Cup Finals between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and TNT Tropang Giga kicked off with a bang, drawing a massive crowd to the Ynares Center in Antipolo City. A total of 11,021 fans attended Game One of between Barangay Ginebra and TNT - the largest PBA crowd in the venue.
The game, which saw TNT dominate Ginebra 104-88, was a testament to the league’s enduring popularity.
PACKED TO THE RAFTERS
The Ynares Center was filled to capacity, with fans from both teams creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere. The passionate crowd cheered on their respective teams, adding to the intensity of the game. The huge turnout underscored the intense rivalry between Ginebra and TNT, two of the most popular teams in the PBA.
BARANGAY GINEBRA AND TNT TROBANG GIGA RIVALRY
The high attendance for Game 1 is a promising sign for the rest of the series. With both teams boasting talented rosters and passionate fan bases, the PBA Governors’ Cup Finals is expected to be one of the most exciting and competitive series in recent years.
The crowd attendance surpassed the previous high of 10,952 set on December 21, 2011 during a quarterfinal doubleheader between Barangay Ginebra and Rain or Shine, and Petron and Meralco during the 2011-12 Philippine Cup.
Long time PBA fan Marlon Estrada who came with his wife Eloisa enjoyed the action-packed Game 1 even if his PBA team San Miguel Beer is not playing for contention. “Thankful ako kasi yung finals ng PBA nandito sa Ynares Center. Malapit sa amin sa Teresa and tamang-tama, Sunday ngayon kaya parang date na din namin. Masaya akong nakitang enjoy ang asawa ko kasi first time din nyang nakanood ng PBA” shared Estrada.
Rizalenyos and PBA fans from nearby provinces and even cities braved the traffic going to the venue. The PBA Game 1 tickets between Barangay Ginebra and TNT Tropang Giga were selling like hot cakes and PBA fans can be seen entering the Ynares Center even after the start of the game.
Incidentally, Game One was also for a cause as the PBA Board announced during a press conference in Taguig City that all Game 1 earnings will go to the calamity victims.
Board chair Ricky Vargas of Meralco said all Game 1 earnings will be coursed by the PBA through the Alagang Kapatid Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility organization of TV5 Network Inc.



NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration Continues, Empowering You to Embrace Your Glow

 NIVEA, your trusted skin care partner, recently marked a significant milestone in its commitment to skin health and well-being by hosting a nationwide raffle. This initiative went beyond simply offering prizes; it was a celebration of care, connection, and the expert solutions NIVEA provides to help you feel your best.

As a global leader in skincare, NIVEA is dedicated to delivering advanced skin solutions that empower individuals to embrace their own glow. With a focus on fostering community and well-being, NIVEA encourages you to connect with others and enjoy life to the fullest.
The much-anticipated nationwide raffle is still ongoing, providing you with the opportunity to win exciting prizes! As NIVEA continues its mission to reward and celebrate loyal customers, each winner exemplifies the confidence that comes from caring for one’s skin.
Join in for your chance to be one of the lucky winners! From October 10 to December 10, 2024, spend ₱500 on NIVEA products for your chance to win a dream trip to South Korea for two (2)!

Unlock More Opportunities to Win with NIVEA
NIVEA has even more thrilling opportunities for you to showcase your skincare passion and potentially score exclusive goodies—just share your NIVEA love on social media and you could be the next lucky winner.
To enter, visit NIVEA’s official Instagram @nivea_ph and find the "Add Yours" template in the 10/10 IG story highlight. Click the "Add Yours" button to create a 30-second video showcasing your favorite NIVEA product and why it deserves a 10 out of 10. Tag NIVEA in your post and include the hashtag #10outof10fromNIVEA.

By participating, you'll have a chance to win exclusive NIVEA goodies like the NIVEA Intensive Moisture Body Milk, NIVEA Body Extra Bright Radiant & Smooth Lotion, NIVEA Extra Bright Super 10 Body Serum, and more.
The NIVEA Pop-up Booth
NIVEA recently brought its expert skincare advice with its exciting pop-up booths! Visitors enjoyed personalized skin consultations, product demonstrations, and exclusive offers. If you missed the event at SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa, you can still experience NIVEA’s 10 out of 10 care through online exclusive offers. A perfect chance to pamper your skin and discover your new favorite products!

Join the NIVEA Squad
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the NIVEA family, this is your chance to experience 10 out of 10 care and win amazing prizes. Follow NIVEA on social media and visit their website to learn more about upcoming promos and the latest in skincare innovations. Let NIVEA’s expert care continue to be a part of your daily routine and your special moments.
Together, let’s celebrate the power of feeling cared for!

CARRYBOY Philippines Unveils Latest Innovations in Body Building and Fiber Glass Technology

 


CARRYBOY Philippines, the leading name in automotive accessories and modifications, is proud to announce its latest cutting-edge products and innovations in body building using fiber glass technology. Renowned for durability, versatility, and style, Carryboy continues to redefine the vehicle customization industry with its world-class offerings for SUVs, pickup trucks, and utility vehicles.
At the forefront of these innovations is the Chassis-Mount Rear Fiber Glass Body, a lightweight yet durable solution that enhances vehicle performance without sacrificing strength. Designed for heavy-duty applications, this product offers superior resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for industries requiring reliable and robust transport solutions. The seamless finish and custom-fit design offer a sleek, professional look that enhances the overall aesthetics of any vehicle. The exhibit features CARRYBOY Ambulance ABL-MSL, Eco-Bus, Touring Canopy, Mobile Kiosk and container 1050 all made from fiber glass.
Complementing the chassis-mount body is the highly functional Body Rear Drawers, a must-have accessory for SUVs and pickups. These fiber glass-based drawers provide unparalleled organization and space-saving capabilities. Designed with the modern adventurer in mind, they allow easy access to tools, gear, and equipment, maximizing storage while maintaining a sleek appearance. Whether for professional use or recreational off-roading, these drawers offer the perfect blend of convenience and innovation.
Beyond these two flagship products, CARRYBOY is also showcasing an array of canopies, utility boxes, and roof racks that exemplify their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Each product is crafted with precision, ensuring that vehicle owners get not only aesthetic upgrades but functional, long-lasting solutions to meet their needs.
“CARRYBOY has always been at the forefront of innovation in automotive accessories. Our fiber glass products, particularly the Chassis-Mount Rear and Body Rear Drawers, are designed to meet the demands of the Philippine market, where ruggedness and versatility are key," said Jun N. Ylagan, President and CEO of CARRYBOY Philippines. "We are committed to providing our customers with high-quality products that enhance both the form and function of their vehicles."
With years of expertise and a reputation for excellence, CARRYBOY Philippines is the trusted choice for car owners, businesses, and industries seeking top-tier vehicle accessories. From off-road enthusiasts to utility vehicle operators, the brand offers solutions that blend innovation, durability, and design.
For more information about CARRYBOY Philippines and their latest products, visit www.carryboy.ph or follow them on social media for updates.

From Isolation to Inclusion: Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Commit to Drive an Empowered Future for Young Women

 


In photo from left to right (Watsons Group Senior Category Manager, Zyra Tino Obias
Plan International Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion, Twyla David
Watsons Director for People Innovations Projects, Jose Arriola
Beiersdorf Sales Director, Jacques Baisa
Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia
Plan International Executive Director, Ana Maria Locsin
Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain
Plan International Program Director, Cathy Seco
Beirsdorf Head of Route to Markets, Josefa Manese)

Renewed partnership launches programs supporting girls’ mental health and career development
Girls hold the power to shape a brighter, more inclusive future—but far too many are held back by enduring biases and barriers that silence their voices, leave them isolated, and restrict their ability to realize their full potential. As the world celebrates the international Day of the Girl (IDG), there is a rousing call to action to create a world where girls are supported, included, and empowered to dream beyond limits.
Heeding this call, Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas reaffirmed their partnership to intensify initiatives toward the upliftment of girls in the country.
Working side by side for two years now, the tripartite collaboration unites the members’ respective focus into a joint agenda charged to accelerate social change for young women. From last year’s programs and discussions about girl’s rights, gender equality, equitable and quality health services and economic resilience, the partnership expands their programs to include pressing concerns on understanding the disempowering impact of social isolation among girls, promoting mental health and wellbeing, as well as creating pathways for career development.
As a brand that cares beyond skin, NIVEA of Beiersdorf, advocates for an inclusive society and aims to foster social cohesion through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT. Addressing the rise of social isolation among young women is critical because loneliness and lack of social connection increase their vulnerability to social injustices and hinder their overall development.
Beauty retailer Watsons, on the other hand, aims to inspire holistic wellbeing, positivity and acts of care and kindness towards people, communities, and the planet. Part of its Sustainability goals under the People Pillar are their efforts to provide scholarships and career opportunities for the youth.
Meanwhile, Plan International Pilipinas, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines has been at the forefront of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls since 1961. According to Plan International Pilipinas, girls' mental health is one of the core foundations for their success and well-being. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, they empower themselves to thrive in both their careers and personal lives. Moreover, advocating for girls’ overall wellness is part of its agenda for girls’ rights and empowerment. It encourages them to exercise their rights, prioritize their overall health, and shape their futures.
For their IDG celebration, the three organizations mounted an event entitled “From Isolation to Inclusion: Empowering Girls, Shaping Futures,” that brought various stakeholders delivering learning modules on financial literacy, digital literacy, and career guidance to help girls from Punlaan School prepare for the future of work and navigate livelihood opportunities and professional empowerment.
Beiersdorf Philippines Country Manager Nimisha Jain in her opening remarks said, “NIVEA’s CARE BEYOND SKIN Sustainability Agenda is guiding all our actions across three critical areas: consumer, society and environment, forming a holistic approach. We want to “Care beyond Skin” by empowering women so that they can thrive. She also shared findings from a NIVEA global study on social isolation which revealed that young people between 16-24 (38%), hybrid workers (52%), and heavy social media users (34%) feel the most isolated in society. She explained that breaking the cycle of social isolation entails building connections, fostering community, and having access to mental health resources, which are key components of NIVEA CONNECT.
“This partnership today is a perfect example of all three elements coming together. I am confident that with our willing & committed partners, we can make a meaningful impact to empowering young women and transition them from Isolation to Inclusion”
For the panel discussion, Beiersdorf Philippines Sales Director Jacques Baisa, Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR and Sustainability, Sharon Decapia, and Plan International Pilipinas Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion Twyla David dived deep into social isolation - how it has disadvantaged girls for centuries, interventions and solutions needed to stop the stigma, and how communities can create a support system for those in need.
The event culminated with the turnover of the Php 1 million donation from Beiersdorf Philippines for the continuation of Watsons and Punlaan School Apprenticeship Program where students are trained with a TESDA certified curriculum to gain skills needed to succeed in the health and beauty retail space. Participants are also assured of a permanent job as Pharmacy Assistants in Watsons after they successfully complete the program.
Lastly, the tripartite partnership was renewed in a MOA signing and formal declaration of support, reinforcing the institutions’ continued collaborative efforts.
Watsons SAVP Sharon Decapia pointed out, “At Watsons, we understand that our responsibilities go beyond helping people care for their health and bring out their innate beauty. For us to be able to help girls become the best version of themselves, we have to open up avenues for learning and understanding what the future will be like, and what issues can affect them. This is what we have been doing with our partners - we are preparing them to be capable leaders of their families and communities.”
Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Ana Maria Locsin said, “Today, we stand united with Beiersdorf and Watsons in our shared commitment to transforming the lives of Filipino girls and young women. The theme of this year’s partnership event on social isolation resonates deeply with our mission of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls in the country.”
“Gender equality and inclusion serve as powerful tools for understanding the barriers that prevent girls from accessing quality education, livelihood opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making. We firmly believe that when girls are empowered and included, they envision brighter futures for themselves and become catalysts for change, helping shape a world where we are all equal.”
For NIVEA, the fight against social isolation goes beyond the Philippines as it looks to set up local NIVEA CONNECT projects with partners in forty countries by 2026. All its efforts are in service of Beiersdorf’s long-term commitment to champion a more inclusive society.