Thursday, June 29, 2023

CEO Rhea Tan Unveils Affordable Skincare Brand 'BlancPro' with Marian Rivera as Endorser

 

TAKING inspiration from the success of premium beauty and wellness brand Beautéderm, the company’s President and CEO Rhea Anicoche-Tan extends a warm invitation to consumers as she introduces a new skincare brand -- BlancPro

 

A new player in the beauty game, BlancPro offers highly effective skincare products made affordable for everyone. The brand promises to make their users “Glow Like A Pro” as captured in its tagline. 


Rhea Anicoche-Tan


The official launch took place on June 29 at the Luxent Hotel in Quezon City. 

 

“BlancPro is tailored to cater to consumers who seek effective yet budget-friendly skincare products. What sets BlancPro apart is its use of quality ingredients, carefully formulated to suit all skin types,” Anicoche-Tan said.

 

The respected businesswoman further emphasized BlancPro’s commitment to inclusivity, simplicity, and affordability. Tan’s new venture introduces an array of products that address various skin concerns, such as the Milk Body Wash, Sakura Body Scrub, Charcoal Foam, Phyto-Emerald Moisturizing Soap, and Sleeping Mask. 


Marian Rivera, Face of 'BlancPro'


This also includes Marian Rivera's signature endorsement, the Jeju White Brightening and Moisturizing Lotion.

 

Aligning her passion for healthy skin and dedication to serving others, Anicoche-Tan urges consumers to treat their skin with kindness, just as the brand's official ambassador, Rivera, exemplifies.


Marian Rivera, Face of 'BlancPro'


"Marian Rivera has been a dear friend for many years. As the official endorser of Beautéderm Home, her effectiveness in representing the brand has been undeniable, leading my team and me to select her as the face of BlancPro. Marian embodies grace, confidence, and beauty," the BlancPro CEO shared.

 

Anicoche-Tan continued, “I welcome Marian to BlancPro family. Like our tagline, she really glows like a pro—and glows from within. Through the years, subok ko nang isa siyang totoong kaibigang maaasahan.”


Marian Rivera, Face of 'BlancPro'


GMA’s Primetime Queen responded, “Ate Rei is an inspiration to everyone—especially to aspiring entrepreneurs. Hangang-hanga talaga ako sa kanya when it comes to business. She is the real deal. 


"She knows what she’s doing and she really knows her consumers. I am forever grateful for her trust and for the trust of her new company. I believe in the products. At mahal na mahal ko si Ate Rei.”

 

With the introduction of BlancPro, Anicoche-Tan and Rivera encourage consumers to embark on a skincare journey that combines efficacy with affordability.

 

To know more about BlancPro, visit:

Facebook: blancproofficial

Tiktok: @blanc_pro

Shopee: Blancpro

Lazada: Blancpro

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

MullenLowe TREYNA and Quezon City Launch “Right to Care Card” for LGBTQIA+ Couples


MullenLowe TREYNA has partnered with the Quezon City Government to launch the Right to Care Card that will empower resident queer couples to make medical decisions for their partners.

The Right to Care Card will be made operational through a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) and will recognize the decision of the cardholders to agree, refuse, or withdraw consent of any type of medical care for their partners including treatment, procedures, tests, and prescriptions.


The Philippines currently does not legally recognize same-sex unions, either in the form of marriage or civil unions. Hospitals and medical facilities nationwide only accept decisions from legal spouses or next of kin, further excluding same-sex couples from making important medical decisions for their respective partners.

Mayor Joy Belmonte, who heads the country’s most populated city, is a vocal ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and a champion of equality. She expresses the importance of this initiative in recognizing the life-long commitment and right to care of LGBTQIA+ members to their partners.


“There have been reports of LGBTQIA+ community members who were prohibited from making crucial decisions when their partners were admitted to intensive care units of hospitals,” Mayor Belmonte shared. 

“We want all of our residents, regardless of sexual orientation, to be with their partners in critical moments, and we are taking this important step to assure the rainbow community that they are cared for, recognized and valued in Quezon City,” she adds.


The Quezon City Government will implement the Right to Care program initially at city government hospitals but will soon after conduct orientations and seal partnerships with publicor private Quezon City- based hospitals.

The card includes a QR code that will direct the user to an actual and notarized digital version of the SPA document. The provisions of the SPA will indicate the privileges authorized by the cardholders for their respective partners such as choosing a particular physician or health care provider; receive, process, and/or disclose their partner’s personal information including medical records; allow or deny medical treatments, procedures, or any other medical concerns related to their partner’s medical condition.


Belmonte hopes this movement will inspire other cities to pursue LGBTQIA+ rights so that more queer Filipino couples and life partners can enjoy the same benefits as those living in Quezon City. The Quezon City Government will also spearhead succeeding seminars and training for card holders and recipients, as well as conduct promotional campaigns in municipalities.

MullenLowe TREYNA Chief Creative Officer Abi Aquino hopes that this collaboration with the Quezon City Government can help push the  conversation for equal rights for the local LGBTQIA+ community. 

“Our agency has always supported equality for all, which is why we hope this initiative will inspire more creatives to give back to the community and make a difference. We stand stronger when we can uphold one another’s rights,” Aquino said.


This initiative is a brainchild of Senior Art Director Adrian de Guzman, who himself is a proud member of the queer community. 

“It’s a deeply personal advocacy as well. As an openly gay man - and someone working in the communications industry - I think it’s a must for me to harness this creativity for good because I have a platform” says de Guzman.

The Right to Care Card was launched during Quezon City’s Pride PH festival - the biggest in Asia, attended by approximately 110,000 LGBTQIA+ community members and allies.

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Liza Diño, First Filipina to Become French Knight in the Field of Cinema


AWARD-WINNING Actress Liza Diño and former Chairperson and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) was honored with one of France’s most distinguished titles, the Chevalier in the French Order of Arts and Letters (Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres”).


This esteemed award recognizes Diño's exceptional contributions to the film industry and her unwavering dedication to fostering cultural exchanges between the Philippines, France, and the world.


Liza Diño with French Ambassador to the Philippines Michele Boccoz


The exclusive and intimate awarding ceremony hosted by French Ambassador Michele Boccoz in her honor took place on June 23, 2023, at the Ambassador's Residence in Makati City, Philippines. Attended by esteemed colleagues in government and film and Diño's closest friends and family members, the event marked a momentous occasion in her remarkable career. Ambassador Boccoz, during her speech, praised Diño for her hard work in opening doors for  Filipino filmmakers and films and bridging the Philippines and France for cultural exchange, mutual policies, and promotions.



“Liza, you are an actress by profession, but being appointed Chairperson of the Film Development Council of the Philippines seemed like you had a calling in public service to play a role in building government support for the Philippine film industry,” she said in her speech. “Your energy, talent, and intensive work have been recognized by French professionals and by all French institutions, and this is why we are here tonight,’ the Ambassador added before she officially conferred the medal to Diño.


Those who witnessed the awarding ceremony included award-winning directors Brillante Mendoza, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Bibeth Orteza, and Mark Meily, actresses Angel Aquino, Bela Padilla, RR Herrera, and Raquel Villavicencio, filmmakers and producers Bianca Balbuena, Bradley Liew, Real Florido, RJ Agustin, and Jim Baltazar of CMB films, Ambassadors Luc Veron of the European Union, and Laure Beaufils of United Kingdom, Instituto Cervantes Director Javier Galvan, and government leaders QC Mayor Joy Belmonte with Manet Dayrit and Ed Lejano of QCinema, QC Congressman Juan Carlos “Arjo” Atayde, Pangasinan Congressman Toff De Venecia, PAO Chief Persida Acosta, IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba, and Cebu City Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia.


Liza Diño with Government Leaders (L-R) Cebu Vice Mayor Raymond Garcia and Wife, IPOPHL Director General Rowel Barba, French Ambassador Michele Boccoz, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, and Congressman Arjo Atayde


The National Order of Arts and Letters is considered the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for individuals who have distinguished themselves by their creations in the artistic or literary field or by the contribution they have made to the influence of the arts and letters in France and the world. Among those awarded the title in the past are Steven Spielberg, George Clooney, Leonardo Di Caprio, Meryl Streep, and Cate Blanchett. 


As the first and only Filipina to receive the distinction in the field of cinema (and joining Oscar-winning Actress Michelle Yeoh in Southeast Asia), Diño's achievements have elevated and uplifted the Philippine film industry in the last six (6) years in the FDCP, most especially in the empowerment and promotion of Philippine Cinema around the world. Her journey, rooted in her background as a classically trained actress, reflects her profound love for the film industry and her commitment to advancing its growth and impact.


 Liza Diño with Ambassadors and Government Leaders (L-R) Instituto Cervantes Director Javier Galvan, Congressman Arjo Atayde, Cebu Mayor Raymond Garcia, French Ambassador Michele Boccoz, European Union Ambassador Luc Veron, and Congressman Toff De Venecia 


During her tenure as Chairperson and CEO of the FDCP, Ms. Dino played a pivotal role in fostering film cooperation between the Philippines and France. Under her leadership, Dino achieved numerous milestones through her collaboration with the Centre National du Cinéma et de l'image animée (CNC), France’s National Agency for Cinema and audiovisual works. This collaboration resulted in a series of impactful initiatives, from strengthening the participation of Filipino films and filmmakers on the global stage to bringing French experts to the Philippines for policy discussions. 


Diño would go on to strengthen the agency’s support to more Filipino filmmakers and films in the promotion and participation in the most influential film festivals in the world, including the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in Annecy, France. FDCP also brought to the Philippines the Festival’ Animation du Monde in 2019 and partnered with French-based company Tatino Films to establish Full Circle Lab Philippines, a global project and talent lab that has helped build the Philippines as a creative hub in the Southeast Asian region.


Liza Diño with Film Industry Guests (L-R) Ed Lejano, Congressman Toff De Venecia, Manet Dayrit, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Bela Padilla, RJ Agustin, QC Mayor Joy Belmonte, Raquel Villavicencio, French Ambassador Michele Boccoz, Real Florido, Bianca Balbuena, Bradley Liew, Angel Aquino, Brillante Mendoza, Jim Baltazar, Congressman Arjo Atayde, Rafael Siguion-Reyna, and Yanah Laurel

Through collaborations with the French Embassy as well, the annual French Film Festival in the Philippines has served as a platform to promote contemporary forms of cinema from France and enhance cultural exchange. It was also during Diño’s time that FDCP started acquiring distribution rights for acclaimed films such as "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" and "Petit Maman” to bring them closer to Filipino audiences. Just before the pandemic, FDCP also looked into the improvement of the movie houses in the country to uplift their standards by inviting French engineers from the CST (Commission Supérieure Technique de l'Image et du Son) to the Philippines with the end goal of creating technical standards for the cinematic experience. 


She was also responsible for formulating the policies that would become the first national film incentives of the Philippines, through, among others, hosting a policy forum between French experts and Philippine legislators on the French levy fund system. In 2019, the FilmPhilippines Incentives was launched, which supported international co-productions between France and the Philippines, including Lav Diaz's "When The Waves Are Gone," Thomas Digard's "Bionic Max," Avid Liongoren's "Zsa Zsa Zaturnnah vs. The Amazonistas," Carlo Manatad's "Whether The Weather is Fine," and Simon Jaquemet's "Electric Child." 


Liza Diño with (L-R) former FDCP ED Ria Rubia, QCinema Artistic Director Ed Lejano, QCinema Festival Manager  Gyana Barata, CMB Film Services President Jim Baltazar, QC Film Foundation President Manet Dayrit, French Ambassador Michele Boccoz, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, Congressman Arjo Atayde, and Fire and Ice Production Manager Rosano Ricarto


Just last year, before she ended her term, she secured the renewal of the CNC-FDCP cooperation agreement, which became one of the highlights of the celebration of 75 years of Diplomatic Relations between France and the Philippines. This agreement paves the way for the conclusion of a co-production treaty between France and the Philippines, promising even more meaningful collaborations and opportunities for local filmmakers.


As Liza Dino received the French Knight Award, she expressed her profound gratitude to all those who have supported and collaborated with her throughout her career. In her acceptance speech during the ceremony and recounting her early days in the FDCP, she said, “I approached [this new role] the same way I did with every aspect of my life - by creating, nurturing, and honoring relationships. I believed that in forming authentic relationships with colleagues, partners, and collaborators, I could get them on board to help me in my vision of an empowered and strong film industry. This was how this fruitful collaboration with France blossomed into impactful cooperation that bridged Philippine and French Cinema together.” 


Liza Diño with French Ambassador to the Philippines Michele Boccoz


“I'd like to thank the French government for honoring me and acknowledging that Philippine Cinema, with all the blood, sweat, and tears that need to be shed, is worth championing and fighting for,” she said as she closed her speech. 


Diño continues her love for the film and entertainment industry through her current role as the CEO of Fire and Ice Media and Productions, Inc., the company she manages with her husband and musical icon, Ice Seguerra. The company has produced successful and award-winning live event shows and is currently supporting several international projects in development with the Philippines and Southeast Asia. She is also the newly appointed Executive Director of the Quezon City Film Development Commission. She envisions the Quezon City film industry as a globally recognized brand for quality, diverse, and authentic films.


Thursday, June 22, 2023

Herlene Budol Marks Acting Debut via GMA’s “Magandang Dilag”


EXPECT more inspiring afternoons with a taste of sweet revenge as GMA Network presents “Magandang Dilag” beginning June 26.


Benjamin Alves, Herlene Budol & Rob Gomez 


The program is bannered by Sparkle leading man Benjamin Alves as Eric, highly-talented actor Rob Gomez as Jared, and introducing Binibining Pilipinas 2022 1st Runner Up Herlene Budol as Gigi.


Herlene Budol

Benjamin Alves

Rob Gomez 


Joining the star-studded cast are Adrian Alandy as Magnus, Jared’s brother and a rising politician; Maxine Medina as Blaire, the domineering girlfriend of Jared and a sought-after fashion designer; 


 Adrian Alandy
Maxine Medina


Bianca Manalo as Riley, a trophy wife to Magnus who hides her cruelty and violence; Angela Alarcon as Allison, a famous social media influencer and Riley’s best friendMuriel Lomadilla as Donna, Gigi’s amusing and loving confidant; Prince Clemente as Cyrus,  Eric’s close friend and colleague; Jade Tecson as Jadah, the younger sister of Allison who knows her deepest secrets.


Bianca Manalo 
Angela Alarcon 

Playing equally important roles in this upcoming drama are seasoned artists Al Tantay as Joaquin, Gigi’s father who left them to reach his own dreams; Chanda Romero as Sofia, the rich and intimidating wife of Joaquin; and Sandy Andolong as Luisa, Joaquin’s former live-in partner and Gigi’s doting mother. 


Al Tantay 
Chanda Romero 
Sandy Andolong


“Magandang Dilag” follows the story of Gigi, a woman who may not have the best looks but has the most optimistic attitude toward life. Gigi faces a turnaround of events when she inherits enormous wealth from her estranged father, Joaquin.

 

Soon after, Gigi finds romance with the man of her dreams, Jared, who is a prominent triathlete/endorser. Unbeknownst to Gigi, Jared is still with Blaire, and they will only fool her to steal her money.  


Benjamin Alves, Herlene Budol & Rob Gomez 


How will Gigi uncover the true intentions of her most beloved man? Can Gigi save herself from their evil plans or will her new life teach her to exact revenge?

 

“Magandang Dilag” is made possible under the supervision of GMA SVP for Entertainment Group Lilybeth G. Rasonable; VP for Drama Cheryl Ching-Sy; AVP for Drama Ali Nokom-Dedicatoria; Program Manager Arnel Nacario; and Executive Producer James Ryan L. Manabat.

 

The creative team behind this unique drama comprises Creative Director Aloy Adlawan; Creative Head for Afternoon Prime Dode Cruz; Creative Consultant Kit Villanueva-Zapata; Concept Creator John Kenneth De Leon; Headwriter Marlon G. Miguel; Writers Angeli Delgado and Jake Somera; Brainstormers Meryl Bunyi and Nehemiarey Dallego; and Associate Director Jose  Johnny Nadela.



Don’t miss the world premiere of “Magandang Dilag” — under the helm of esteemed director Don Michael Perez  — this June 26, weekdays at 3:20 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime and Pinoy Hits.

 

Global Pinoys can also catch the program via GMA Pinoy TV. For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.GMANetwork.com.

To Confess or Not to Confess? 'Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile' cast reflects on taking the risk—or saving the friendship


PICTURE this: you’re in a daze, recalling every stolen glance and shared laugh with your special friend, sensing something else there—something akin to brewing romance. 


It’s a classic conundrum that may leave you feeling both edgy and thrilled—and it’s something that Angge (Yukii Takahashi) and Bryce (Wilbert Ross), lead characters of Puregold Channel’s Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile, know only too well. 



Wilbert Ross & Yukii Takahashi


Would you risk it all and bare your feelings, potentially transforming the entire dynamic of your relationship? Would it be worth putting your precious friendship at risk?

 

As Angge and Bryce grapple with the overwhelming urge to declare their feelings, cast members of the hit series Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile ponder on how a leap of faith can lead to true love---or the loss of a cherished friend.

 

Migs Almendras, who plays Ketch in the digital series, says, “I would not confess, because I value the friendship much more than the idea of being in a relationship with that person.” 



Kat Galang, Wilbert Ross & Migs Almendras

 

TJ Valderrama, who stars as Cyrus, learned his own lessons the hard way. “I tried to bare my feelings for the person I liked, but it ended up jeopardizing our friendship. Things turned awkward between us and soon, we weren’t as close as we used to be. These days, when it looks like I’m getting feelings for a friend, I shrug it off or distance myself a little.”

 

Courage can also be a factor, as Anjo Resurreccion, who plays Jerry, puts it, “Being the torpe that I am, I wouldn’t confess my feelings to anyone. I don’t like going through the pain of rejection.”

 

On the other hand, other characters of Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile feel that ‘fessing up is the way to go.



Yukii Takahashi

 

Kat Galang, Genski in the series, shares, “There is nothing wrong in expressing how you really feel, especially if it’s something special. I want to be honest to my friend whom I have special feelings for, and I won’t expect anything in return. Plus points kung gusto ka din niya. If not, eh ‘di back to friendship!”

 

Lead actor Yukii Takahashi, Angge in the series, believes that we should be honest with our feelings. “I would let the other person know how I truly feel, and see if something good comes out of it.”



Wilbert Ross


Wilbert Ross, who plays Ang Lalaki star Bryce, says there are people who are okay with being friends, and are reluctant to ruin the friendship especially when feelings aren’t mutual. “I think we will be able to sense, even just a little, if our friend has feelings for us too. If this is the case, then why not confess? Maybe it will become something more!”

 

While they have differing views on the issue, everyone agrees that friendship makes for a strong basis for a lasting relationship.


Moi Marcampo, who stars as Chili Anne, says, “Every relationship goes through friendship. It’s better that you know each other well before deciding to be together romantically.”



Moi Marcampo


To this, Star Orjaliza or Yaya Aimee in ALSLNP agrees. “You need a foundation. You need to get to know each other before you enter the next level.”

 

More cast members talk about friendship being the foundation to a romantic relationship, like TJ and Kat.

 

“Friendship is very important in a relationship. Things become a little easier. Relationships require a lot of work, but if you’re experiencing life and relationships with your lover who is also your friend, it becomes more beautiful,” says TJ.

 

“There is a certain respect that both parties have established as friends, which, for me, is stronger than love,” Anjo affirms.

 

Kat adds, “At the end of the day, the partnership feels more genuine because you know each other on a deeper level than romance.”



Star Orjaliza & Marissa Sanchez


Marissa Sanchez, who plays Bryce’s mom Bessie, takes it to an even higher level and mentions marriage. “A friendship knows no boundaries, while being in a relationship can be circumscribed. That’s why the advice I always give to young people is: marry a friend.”

 

Yukii affirms this. “If you are dating to marry, your partner should be your best friend, because friendship is the core of any healthy relationship.”

 

Of course, Wilbert has the same perspective. “The best partner is your best friend, someone who will always be there for you, and someone who can rely on you, for better or for worse.”

 

In recent episodes of the digital series, Bryce and Angge have crossed the virtual barrier and become real-life friends. While inclined to keep the status, both characters are finding their growing feelings difficult to deny.

 

Will Angge and Bryce lay their hearts on the line, finally leading to a romantic relationship? Or will factors such as old loves and family affairs get in the way of their love story?




Catch the newest episode of Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile on June 24, 7 p.m., in the official Puregold YouTube Channel. 


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