Author: WILMAR NICOLAS DULDULAO

  • 25 years of “Hapee” moments

    25 years of “Hapee” moments

    If the toothpaste you use makes you think of “happy” moments that elicit a “smile,”chances are you are using hapee toothpaste.

    Not too many people know that 25 years ago, when Lamoiyan Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Cecilio K. Pedro decided to challenge the multinational companies in the tough dental care market, he actually thought of using “Smile” as a brand name.

    “Initially, the brand I chose was Smile because when you brush your teeth, you are supposed to smile. When you frown, it becomes difficult to brush your teeth.

    And when you smile, you look happy,” Dr. Pedro shared.

    However, it turned out that the brand “Smile” already belonged to a multinational company. When they went back to the drawing board, Dr. Pedro figured that the best alternative is the word that describes the feeling of people who smile—happy.

    “But I thought ‘happy’ did not seem suitable as a brand, so I changed it from ‘h-a-p-p-y’ to ‘h-a-p-e-e,’ and it became ‘hapee,’ ” Dr. Pedro said.

    Dr. Pedro also said using hapee gives the brand good recall because it is familiar to all households in the Philippines and all over the world. “When you say ‘happy,’ people already know it, so the word was chosen and the rest was history.”

    Indeed, the 25-year journey that followed for Lamoiyan Corporation was historic to say the least.

    Dr. Pedro, started as a supplier of aluminum tubes to become a world-class toothpaste maker. He forged on, not minding the tough competition from the better-funded and well-entrenched multinationals.

    By plunging into the business head first, Filipino consumers had an alternative toothpaste, one that is affordable and truly Filipino.

    “We introduced good quality toothpaste at affordable prices so that many Filipinos can afford to brush their teeth regularly. We found out that a lot of Filipinos, especially those in the provinces, could not brush their teeth because toothpaste and toothbrush are expensive. That dream pushed us initially and we were not afraid to face the multinational companies because we believe there is this need to help Filipinos, especially those belonging to the poorest of the poor,” Dr. Pedro said.

    From day one, Dr. Pedro said they have kept their corporate mission that is to improve the quality of life by bringing essential products within the reach of the common people. The pursuit of this goal brought 25 years of happy moments not just for him but also for those who shared the journey with Lamoiyan Corporation.

    “Every year we survive the competition thrown at us and we celebrate each happy moment. Every day that I wake up I consider it a happy moment, thanking God for giving me another day. There are so many challenges and difficulties in this world but it really depends on how you look at life. For me, we are so blessed as a country and as a people. We are

    fortunate here in Lamoiyan Corporation and we tell the world that yes, we can survive and we can compete with the best of the best in the world,” he said.

    Through the years Lamoiyan Corporation has gained the services of so many wonderful people, including the hearing-impaired that make up about 30% of the company’s total workforce. They receive equal opportunities. The company also ensure that proper attention and training are given to equip them for work and life outside of work. “I call them angels sent by the Lord. When I see them, I’m happy because they were provided by the Lord.”

    “We have very good experiences with the hearing-impaired, always among the top performers with 6 or 7 of the Top 10 performers of the year coming from them. It is very rewarding and fulfilling to provide jobs to those who are not as fortunate as us. At the same time we are able to promote better relationships and a culture of compassion and harmony inside the company. This, I think, is what makes us different from the world and this is what we believe is making a difference for the glory of God,” he added.

    Dr. Pedro believes these “happy” moments and a positive outlook are instrumental in building Hapee Toothpaste and Lamoiyan Corporation. From its humble beginnings 25 years ago in a small facility in Paranaque City, Lamoiyan Corporation now boasts of creating over 30 flavors of hapee toothpaste.

    The company also expanded its operations to include household and personal care segments through brands like Kutitap, Dazz, and Licealiz.

    Beginning this year, Lamoiyan Corporation is set to introduce quality and affordable products to other countries.

    “We are very bullish about 2013; we believe this is the year when we will grow faster than before. This is the year where we will probably also explore exports into other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, by the grace of God. We will again be facing the multinational companies so hopefully we will gain some footing (there) in the very near future,” Pedro said.

    Lamoiyan Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Cecilio K. Pedr0

    Who knows? In the next 25 years, probably the rest of world will also get to experience the happy moments that hapee toothpaste brings to every household.

    To know more about how Lamoiyan Corporation gives hope to Filipinos and shares hapee smiles, visit www.lamoiyan.com or www.facebook.com/LamoiyanCorporation.

    Reference: Nadine Tan

    AMPR Publicity and Communications Inc.

    0917.5837125

  • UNIQLO’s Newest Global Flagship Store Steps Foot in Hong Kong Opening in Late April in the Heart of Causeway Bay

    UNIQLO’s Newest Global Flagship Store Steps Foot in Hong Kong Opening in Late April in the Heart of Causeway Bay

    UNIQLO announces on March 3, 2013 that its newest global flagship store, the UNIQLO Lee Theatre Store, is set to open its doors to stylish and discerning Hong Kong shoppers on 26 April 2013. This impressive new store will span three floors and boast over 37500 ft2 of shopping space in the Lee Theatre, located in the centre of Causeway Bay’s fashionable shopping district.

    UNIQLO first launched in Hong Kong in September 2005 and currently operates sixteen stores in the city. The brand enjoys a particularly strong presence in the local market thanks to consumers’ strong enthusiasm for UNIQLO’s exceptional quality at competitive prices. Situated in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong’s most esteemed fashion district, UNIQLO’s new global flagship store will showcase the latest and greatest from the brand’s basic wear culture. Shoppers will be able to experience a distinct and satisfying shopping journey at this impressive UNIQLO location.

    As a brand, UNIQLO is dedicated to designing functional clothing that comes in a wide variety of selections, all of which feature exceptional quality and fresh styles. The Lee Theatre Store will serve as a giant leap forward for the brand in the region and will certainly benefit its continuous global growth.

    Hong Kong Global Flagship Store Summary

    Store Name: UNIQLO Lee Theatre Store

    Opening Date: 26 April 2013

    Address: G/F, B1 and B2, Lee Theatre,

    No. 99 Percival Street, Causeway Bay

    Floor Size: 2,534 sqm spread over three floors

    Reference: Richard Mamuyac

  • Stephanie Zubiri  for HUROM Slow Juicer

    Stephanie Zubiri for HUROM Slow Juicer

    One of the country’s reputable Chef, Lifestyle Columnist and Business Entrepreneur Ms. Stephanie Zubiri recently inked a contract of endorsement for Zinven International Corporation, the exclusive distributor of HUROM Slow Juicer in the Philippines. A woman of style and substance, Stephanie’s reputation complements the endorsement for HUROM Slow Juicer, on how it is to get the best, natural nutrition for maintaining the balance in your lifestyle.

    The new paradigm in juicers, HUROM Slow Juicer has the patented Low Speed Technology System. Unlike blenders and traditional juicers which rips the nutrients, HUROM Slow Juicer’s Low Speed Technology System allows slow and gentle pressing out of the juice, preserving most of the nutritious enzymes, minerals, vitamins and flavors alive and well.

    HUROM Slow Juicer has continuous extraction system, operates on low-noise and is easy to clean and maintain. HUROM Slow Juicer is available at Rustans, The Landmark, S&R, Wilcon Builders and Shop TV.

    Photo shows: (L) Cathy S. Dy, General Manager, ZInven International Corporation, and Ms. Stephanie Zubiri.

    Like us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/HuromPhilippines For Hurom Slow Juicer product inquiries, call 9268009.

    Reference: Ana Manansala 0919.3503172

  • Perfect Combination: You, Me, and Rossi Sweet Red

    Perfect Combination: You, Me, and Rossi Sweet Red

    As it symbolizes a lot of aspects of love, wine has become a common sight in romantic occasions, the most popular of which is Valentine’s. Whether given as a gift paired with chocolates and flowers or as a special drink for the dinner date, having a bottle of wine on Valentine’s sparks passion, romance, and love.

    Of all the kinds of wine, sweet red wine is the most apt symbol of love. Its color expresses passion and its taste evokes enchantment, making it feel a lot like love. Akin to every sip of sweet red, love is full of surprises and delight. Such charm is experienced in every sip of Rossi Sweet Red.

    Crafted from grapes grown in California’s sun-drenched vineyards, Rossi Sweet Red is bursting with flavor and aroma, creating a different kind of sweet. According to Von De Torres, Managing Director of Emperador Distillers, it is what a real sweet red wine should be.

    “All the flavors of vanilla, bright cherry and wild raspberry come together in a deliciously sweet complement of fresh fruit and a velvety soft finish. This is real sweet red wine that suits Filipinos’ preference for sweet wine. ”

    Every year, couples look forward to Valentine’s, thinking of creative ways to celebrate the special day. Crafting a different celebration from the years past has become a regular challenge. But with Rossi Sweet Red, a memorable Valentine’s is easy — it’s your perfect choice for every sweet moment of the Heart’s Month.

    “Rossi Sweet Red is perfect for every sweet moment specially this month of love. Whether you are at home watching a movie or having a fancy dinner, popping a bottle of Rossi Sweet Red surely makes the moment unforgettable. Surprise your love more by serving a different kind of sweet, with a stem-less wine glass, some ice, and Rossi Sweet Red,” suggests De Torres.

    ‘On the rocks’ is said to be a cool way to enjoy this sweet red wine. The ice brings out the flavor and makes for a smoother finish. “It doesn’t compromise the taste and actually makes it even better. Even if the ice melts, the taste stays perfect – you can savor all the sweetness and real wine flavor,” she assures.
    Because of its flavor, Rossi Sweet Red can be easily paired with any kind of food. From popcorn and chips, to special home-made dinners, to medium-rare steak, the flavors of this sweet red wine complement the savor of these dishes.

    Every relationship should be like good wine: the older it gets, the better it becomes. Having Rossi Sweet Red this month of love is perfect – rekindle your passion and let love grow.

    Because “I love you” should go beyond words, spend a great time with that special someone and make sure to enjoy every special moment. In this Month of Hearts, perfect combination is you, me, and Rossi Sweet Red on the rocks – a different kind of sweet for a different kind of Valentine’s.

    Reference: AMPR Publicity and Communications Inc.
    706.1971

  • UNTV’s”Cook, Eat Right” features HUROM SLOW JUICER

    UNTV’s”Cook, Eat Right” features HUROM SLOW JUICER

    The 21st Century Slow Juicer- HUROM, will be featured in the forthcoming episodes of UNTV’s “Cook, Eat Right”. Known for making use of the world’s first patented low-speed technology, Hurom Slow Juicer maintains the nutrients and enzymes of fruits and vegetables- unlike with traditional juicers where high speed grinding destroys vitamins and nutrients and results in less juice yield. Hurom is also easy to clean, noise-free and durable.

    Catch more of the exciting, healthy recipes by Hurom starting Feb 3, Sunday from 9:30am-10:30am at UNTV’s “Cook, Eat Right”. The Anak TV seal program is hosted by young and professional Chef REDJ Baron, (L) and well-known TV Actor/Nutritionist Mr. Ricardo Cepeda (R). “Cook Eat Right” airs every Sunday, from 9:30 -10:30 am. Please like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/HuromPhilippinesOfficial. Promo contest will be announced on the show.

  • One Piece is coming to UNIQLO on Jan. 18

    One Piece is coming to UNIQLO on Jan. 18

    UNIQLO’s “One Piece” UT line is finally coming to UNIQLO stores in the Philippines.

    Starting January 18, 2013, UNIQLO’s “One Piece” UT, based on the popular Japanese animated series, will be available at the UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia and also at UNIQLO SM North EDSA The Block.

    Retail price for the UNIQLO “One Piece” is P790.00

    In line with this, exciting One Piece activities are also set at the SM Mall of Asia for One Piece fans in the Philippines. These activities are happening on January 18-20, 2013. Just buy a “One Piece” UT and this entitles you to a “meet-and-greet” and photo session opportunities with One Piece characters and mascots who will make surprise appearances.

    The UNIQLO store at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. while the UNIQLO store at the 2nd floor of the SM City North EDSA The Block in Quezon City is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends and 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays.

    For more information about UNIQLO and other FR brands, please visit www.uniqlo.com or www.fastretailing.com.

    For media inquiries, please contact:
    Irish Santos-Lorenzo
    AMPR Publicity Inc.
    Tel: 632-706-1971

  • Lessons from the Mouth of an ex-OFW-now Successful Networker

    Lessons from the Mouth of an ex-OFW-now Successful Networker

    Gano iTouch Philippines, part of the worldwide presence of one of the established and leading direct selling companies in the industry of wellness, has been siring a persevering breed of professional networkers—highly successful at what they do, and raring to share their formula for success. One of these is its Ambassador Crown Diamond Director (ACDD) named Nathaniel “Nat” Falla, a former OFW (overseas Filipino worker) who attained financial stability the Gano way.

    Nat Falla has worked so hard to have gotten to where he is now. After 12 years of hardships, he can confidently say that all the hard work and sacrifices had truly paid off. Now, it’s time to enjoy what he worked hard for all these years. It’s time to share his formula for success.

    But what is success, and how does one attain it? There are a hundred and one answers to these questions, and among the best quoted answers came from the lips of Nat, a hardworking networker who rose from the ranks.

    Success to Nat means never resting on one’s laurels. “One should not give up in the face of trials because it is normal to encounter these things on the road to success,” he shares. Nat’s one person who does not hold back in sharing his experiences and past struggles with those under him. In fact, he has not stopped supporting his colleagues and downlines. It is important for him to be able to impart to his downlines the lessons that he has learned in the business.

    Nat believes that one can achieve success in multi-level marketing as long as one is truly determined. He follows three key virtues of success that kept him going all these years.
    Nat’s 3 Key Virtues of Success:

    1. Stay Focused – Understand the business and learn it by heart. Love what you do. Don’t be distracted and don’t get sidetracked because you have a dream to achieve for yourself and for your loved ones.
    2. Be Humble – Don’t put yourself on a pedestal just because you are ranked higher than your peers. Show to others that there is a natural process of climbing the ladder to success. Be generous and share with others the lessons and tips you have learned in your own journey.
    3. Keep the Faith – Never forget that God exists and that He is always there for you. Thank Him for the success and even the trials that come your way.

    Looking back, Nat remembers the discouragements and bad experiences he had when he was just starting. He was among those who would dream of being able to escape the world of debt. He was among many who wanted to fulfill their obligations in life. Now, he has finally reached what many only dream of: financial freedom. He heaved a sigh of relief that he has finally made it this far, saying “Wow grabe, sabi nga nila, eto na. Eto na ang napakasarap na parte ng business na ito.” (“Wow, this is amazing, as they say, this is it. This is what they call the sweetest part of this business.”)

    One of GANOiTOUCH’S Ambassador Crown Diamond Director (ACDD) named Nathaniel “Nat” Falla, (left, top photo) a former OFW (overseas Filipino worker) attained financial stability the Gano way. He has worked his way up to where he is now. After years of facing life’s challenges, now he can confidently say that all the hard work and sacrifices had truly paid off. He is shown in photo with wife Evelyn (right). Nat Falla shares his success and gives tips to help his members down the line to achieve what he has reached.

    Nat always keeps in mind that in this business, with his hard work he is not the only one who succeeds but he is also helping others get to where they are now. He is passionate in being an instrument to help others. The result is, like him, they, too, are enjoying the fruits of their labor.

    Being an Ambassador Crown Diamond Director means enjoying what the company has promised, such as additional incentives besides the earnings received every month. He and his fellow ACDD now receive a 3% incentive from the total sales of the company. They enjoy a bonus payout every month.

    Sandra Wee is one of the people that Nat inspired. Sandra described Nat as kind and very supportive to his downlines. She said that Nat is very generous in teaching and guiding others. And that he wants to see more people succeed in the company, “the more, the merrier”. Sandra is very grateful to Nat Falla for all the guidance and support he is giving to his peers. Her words of thanks, “Sir, I salute you, salamat sa iyong guidance, sa iyong walang sawang pag- supporta sa amin sa lahat ng aming mga kasama. At lahat ng achievements mo ay talagang pinaghirapan po.” (“Sir, I salute you, thank you for your guidance and unwavering support to me and my peers. All your achievements you have truly worked hard for.”)

    Now a fellow ACDD, Billy Quiñones owes a great deal of gratitude to Nat. He started with Gano iTouch in January 2010. In a very short span of time, with Nat’s help, he became an ACDD. Billy shares that Nat is very dedicated to helping his downlines. “Isa ako sa mga taong tinulungan niya. Isa ako sa mga taong nagbago ang buhay dahil sa kanyang mga payo na ibinigay sa akin, kaya ako ay talagang masasabi natin na isa sa mga tao na nakakuha ng mga pangarap dito sa Gano itouch” (“I’m one of those people he helped. I’m one of those people who have a changed life now because of his advice. I can be considered as one of the people who have flourished with Gano iTouch.”)

    Nat’s ultimate advice to those aspiring to be like him, “Kapag hindi mo ginawa ngayon may ibang gagawan d’yan. Kaya kung ako sa iyo, ngayon pa lang, umpisahan mo na. Umpisahan mo, pangarapin mo na maging Ambassador Crown Diamond Director. Kung hindi, iba ang gagawa niyan.” (“If you don’t do it, others will. So if I were you, start now. Set out and aspire to be an Ambassador Crown Diamond Director. If not, others will do it ahead of you.”)

    A Gano iTouch officer dovetailed to Nat’s inspired sharing: “Gano’s ‘once-in-a-lifetime life-changing experience’ should not miss. Our investment offer just might be the road that can lead you to success.”

    Read more about Gano iTouch corporate and product information by visiting their websites, www.ganoitouch.com and, www.ganoexcel.com with contact numbers, (02) 7063152, 7063137.

    Reference: Ana Manansala
    09175835958

  • Villar Foundation Partners Anew with DZRH in Cleaning up Manila Bay

    Villar Foundation Partners Anew with DZRH in Cleaning up Manila Bay

    The Villar Foundation is continuing its partnership with DZRH’s ‘Makabagong Bayanihan Manila Bay Clean Up.” Last year, MISIS Cynthia Villar, Managing Director of the foundation, inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) represented by radio station DZRH in its Manila Bay Clean up drive.

    “The Villar Foundation together with students and other volunteers conduct weekly clean up also. This clean up with DZRH is in addition to those. The more partners we work with, the better it will be for the environment,” said Villar. The last clean up of the foundation with DZRH was on August 25 last year.

    The clean up covers the entire stretch of Manila Bay. The Villar Foundation will take charge of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat & Eco-Tourism Area (LPPCHEA), the same site where they do their regular clean up.

    Also known as the Freedom Island, LPPCHRA is accessible from the Coastal Road. The target area will be the open beach areas facing out to the Manila Bay.

    “We are pleased with the improvement that we are seeing at LPPCHEA. The number of truckloads of garbage that we are getting here has considerably decreased and we attribute that to our consistent clean up efforts,” cited Villar.

    The Villar Foundation will be joined by at least 1,000 volunteers from schools, barangays, NGOs, socio-civic organizations, and other private individuals and groups.

    According to her, the days following a typhoon, are usually the period when most garbages have been collected from the area since wastes from as far away as Cavite are being dragged by the storm surge in the area. And the garbage takes weeks or even more than a month to be collected.

    “Clean up plays a big factor but in the long run, we really need to discipline the people and make them aware of the consequences of their indiscriminate throwing and dumping of garbage. The immense flooding that we have experienced in recent years should send a clear signal already of the environmental degradation of Manila Bay and other waterways in our country,” added Villar.

    As per the MoA, MBC or DZRH will lead the Manila Bay Cleanup project along the coastline of Manila Bay from Navotas to Bacoor, Cavite “to help promote any and all efforts in relation to the promotion of sustainable ecosystem of Manila Bay”.

    The clean up activities will take place from 7am to 11am onwards and the garbage collected will be turned over to appropriate government solid waste collector in the area.

    “The Villar Foundation and DZRH agree that this is a joint cooperative undertaking, but more importantly, it is a major public service activity that shall help contribute to the promotion of a livable, healthier and ecological sustainable Manila Bay,” cited the MoA.

    Villar has been vocal about her strong support for the protection of Manila Bay. To recall on March 16 last year, she filed a petition for Writ of Kalikasan against a Manila Bay reclamation project that is seen to cause catastrophic flooding in the area. The Supreme Court granted her petition and issued a Writ of Kalikasan on April 10.

    “We will continue to support campaigns or drives to protect Manila Bay and neighboring areas including LPPCHEA. Moreover, we will continue to oppose projects that will cause damage and destruction to the bay and nearby cities,” cited Villar. If carried out, the Manila Bay reclamation project that Villar is opposing is seen to cause severe flooding in numerous barangays — 11 in Parañaque, 37 in Bacoor and 17 in Las Piñas.

    For more details about the projects and programs of the Villar Foundation, please visit www.villarfoundation.org or follow www.twitter.com/VFoundationInc.

    Reference: Richard Mamuyac