The Search for the next Cebuana Lhuillier Happiest Pinoy 2018

Truly the Filipinos are the symbol of Happy Nation. We already showed it to the world how strong we are in times of trials and misery. We have suppered so many difficulties in life yet we still standing and we are proud to show our smile to everyone.

During the registration and before the program starts a scratch, and Win contest is provided by Cebuana Lhuillier that gives a happy face specially those who won big prizes.

The country's largest microfinancial services company, Cebuana LhuiIIier, has formally opened this year's Search for the Happiest Pinoy. The competition celebrates the Filipinos' indomitable spirit of resilience and positivity and gives honor and recognition to outstanding Filipinos that best represent these values. 

"Cebuana Lhuillier has always believed that Filipinos are one of the most resilient people in the world. We have always faced life's challenges with optimism, faith, and a can-do attitude—and we believe that this should be recognized and encouraged at all times. We have been celebrating this culture of happiness and resilience through the Search for the Happiest Pinoy since 2009," said PJ Lhuillier Group of Companies President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier. 

Early this year, Gallup Poll released the results of their 41st Annual Global End of the Year Survey with the Philippines taking the third spot among the happiest countries in the world. The survey revealed that Filipinos exude a positive outlook in life in spite of economic uncertainties and financial upheavals. 

Dubbed to be the most inclusive in the Search's ten-year history, the 2018 Search for the Happiest Pinoy now covers ten categories: youth, senior citizens, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), lingkod bayan, professionals, manggagawang Pinoy, entrepreneurs, employees, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community. Cebuana Lhuillier and a panel of judges representing the academe, the business community, as well as, past Happiest Pinoy winners will pick a finalist from each category. The new Happiest Pinoy will be selected from the roster of 10 category winners. 

This year's Search requires no third party nomination. To join the contest, interested individuals must first choose one of the 10 categories that best applies to them and answer the application form via SMS by texting their full name, birthdate, and category code to any of these numbers: 09209582455 for Smart/Talk 'N Text, 09178782453 for GlobeU'M, and 09328428562 for Sun; via online by logging on at www.happiestpinov/reaister.asDx; or in any of Cebuana Lhuillier's 2,200 branches nationwide. 

The winner of this year's Search will take home P1,000,000 tax free while category winners will win P50,0000 each. The 2018 Happiest Pinoy will also become part of an exclusive group of upstanding Filipinos composed of 2009 Happiest Pinoy winner Winston Maxino, 2012 Happiest Pinoy winner Rommel Arellano, and 2015 Happiest Pinoy winner Richardson Navor. 

For more information on the Search, visit www.happiest-pinoy.com or follow Happiest Pinoy on Facebook. 

ABOUT CEBUANA LHUILLIER 

Cebuana Lhuillier is the Philippines' largest lending network that offers microloans, remittance, microinsurance, bills payment, e-load, and business-to-business microfinancial solutions services. For 31 years, Cebuana Lhuillier continues to provide fast, easy, secure, and convenient offerings to its clientele through more than 2,200 branches nationwide, an overseas branch in Hong Kong, and a marketing office in Dubai, UAE. 

FAQ'S

1. What is the Search for the Happiest Pinoy? The Philippines has endured a total of 274 calamities over the past two decades, making it the fourth most disaster-prone country in the world. 

Despite these catastrophic events, the Filipinos remain one of the most resilient and optimistic people in the world, ranking third happiest country according to a 2018 global survey by US-based firm Gallup International. The Philippines previously ranked 14th in the list of happiest places in the world by Happy Planet Index in 2009. 

Launched in 2009, the Search for the Happiest Pinoy is a nationwide campaign of Cebuana Lhuillier that aims to rekindle the values of optimism, resilience, and hope in Filipinos amidst different life crises. 

As the leading and largest microfinancial services provider, Cebuana Lhuillier hopes to highlight the positive things that come with obtaining quality and affordable microfinancial security which is peace of mind and ultimately, happiness. The Search for the Happiest Pinoy aims to find a Filipino who has: 

1. Positive outlook in life 

2. Proven ability to rise above life's challenges 

3. Positive impact in the lives of others 

Since its launch, the Search has gathered over 290,000 nominations from all over the country and has since awarded the coveted title to three deserving individuals. Winston Maxino, a corporate executive who was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis, a degenerative and incurable bone disease, was declared the first Happiest Pinoy grand winner in 2010. 

Rommel Arellano, a guidance counselor who was afflicted with polio at age one, was declared Happiest Pinoy in 2012, besting more than 13,000 nominees nationwide. 

Richardson Navor, a college professor and financial analyst in one of the country's top accounting firms born with cerebral palsy. Navor bested over 280,000 nominations-the highest in the campaign's three-year history. 

The Search has since been broadcasted and recognized in various print, radio, W, and online publications. To widen its reach, a series of roadshows were rolled out in key cities in the country, including Baguio, Cebu, and Davao, encouraging more people to share their story, ultimately spreading the "happydemic." 

Because of the campaign's unique and relevant advocacy, various award-giving bodies both local and international have recognized and honored the Search for the Happiest Pinoy including the Philippine Quill Award, Anvil Awards, UA&P's Tambuli Award, and the Stevie International Business Award. 

This year, the campaign will be more exciting with the introduction of 10 new categories to enable various sectors in the society to be represented in the Search. Furthermore, application forms can now be accessed via SMS and online at www.happiest-pinoy.com aside from Cebuana Lhuillier's over 2,200 branches nationwide. 

2. Who can join the contest? 

The Search for the Happiest Pinoy is open to all upstanding Filipino citizens currently residing in the Philippines age 13 years old above. 

3. How can I join? 

To join, interested individuals must first choose one (1) of 10 categories below: 

1. Youth Category (Category Code: YOU1 H) 

-13 to 21 years old only 

2. Senior Citizen Category (Category Code: SR) 

-60 years old above 

3. PWD Category (Category Code: PWD) 

-Persons with permanent physical or mental impairment 

4. Manggagawang Pinoy Category (Category Code: 

MNGGW) 

-Individuals who render manual labor, including laborers, factory workers, PUV drivers, and househelp 

5. Professional Category (Category Code: PRO) 

-Any licensed individual performing a highly specialized job (ex. doctors, lawyers, teachers, professors, nurses, etc.) 

6. Lingkod Bayan Category (Category Code: 

LNGKD) 

-Public servants or individuals who work for the government, including soldiers, and policemen 

7. OFW (Overseas Filipino Workers) Category 

(Category Code: OFW) 

-Filipinos who work abroad 

8. Entrepreneur Category (Category Code: ENTRP) 

-Individuals who run their own business 

9. Employee Category (Category Code: EMP) 

-Individuals who work In offices or those who hold administrative jobs, like call center agents, managers, office clerks, etc. 

10. LGBTQ Category (Category Code: LGBTQ) 

-Individuals who identify as members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community

MOA Arena launches May with a star-studded line-up of acts



 

 

This summer, countless wide-eyed fans came for an experience of a lifetime with their favorite artists at the Mall of Asia Arena. The venue had one of its most jam-packed weeks of the year with back-to-back sold-out shows from some of the world’s biggest acts.

On April 28, passionate K-pop fans of EXO filled-up the Arena during the Elyxion concert, the 4th installment of the superstar group’s world tour. The multi-awarded K-pop band held a show complete with laser beams, a stylish bar, and light effects that matched their songs perfectly. With fans like EXO-Ls, the show took a mesmerizing turn as the audience made an ocean of silver with their light sticks moving to the beats of the band. 

 

After his last concert with One Direction in 2015, May 1 saw the return of Harry Styles to the Philippines with his first solo tour. Harry did not disappoint as he serenaded his fans with a powerful performance.

“I only have one job here, and that is to entertain all of you,” said Styles as he rocked the Arena with hits “Sign of the Times” and “Only Angel” from his self-titled album. 

Just a day after Harry’s show, the Arena was again filled with eager fans for another world-renowned performer: Bruno Mars. 

 

The concert kicked-off with a bang, as award-winning dance crew Jabawockeez took to the stage, and segued to Bruno Mars and his band, the Hooligans. The Grammy Award-winning artist brought the house down as he started off with his chart-topping hits “Finesse” and “24K Magic”. 

The 2-day concert attracted Bruno Mars fans including local celebrities Vicky Belo, Vice Ganda, Ogie Alcasid, Luis Manzano, Jessy Mendiola, Carmina Villaroel, power couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes, Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Maxene Magalona. Some of the celebrities came with their families and friends.

The 24K Magic Tour Manila came to a close with Bruno dedicating “Just The Way You Are” to his beloved Filipino fans. Truly a tour to remember, his performance showered the crowd with gold confetti that matched his eclectic energy on stage.

May marks the anniversary of the Mall of Asia Arena, which launched its first show in 2012, with Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Ball Tour. As Manila is currently a hot scene for world-renowned acts, the venue takes pride in continuously being a host to many live shows. True to the vision of the SM Group to bring quality entertainment to the Philippines, the Arena has now become a valuable partner to the nation’s top promoters and organizers who repeatedly chooses the Mall of Asia Arena as an avenue for their events.

Apart from catering to various audiences, the Arena is also home to corporate brands -  with partners like PLDT, Globe, Unilever, Solaire, LBC, Tanduay, Meralco, Powerstroke, ABS-CBN, 8990 Holdings, Belle Corporation and newly-boarded partners Peerless Products Manufacturing Corporation and Oriental Group Entertainment and Leisure, enjoying the venue’s shows, amenities, and advertising assets on a yearly basis.

In the coming months, more anticipated events will happen at the Arena such as the PBA and UAAP finals, and concerts by popular artists like Niall Horan, Sam Smith, Paramore, Wanna One, Tiffany and Debbie Gibson, and Celine Dion.

To keep updated on the Mall of Asia Arena announcements, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow the official social media accounts at @moaarena.

 

 

 

ABOUT SM LIFESTYLE

SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated or SMLEI is the lifestyle and entertainment company of SM Prime Holdings Inc. that offers the best in events, movies, and leisure. The company has now grown major brands, which include the Mall of Asia Arena, SM Tickets, e-PLUS Tap to Pay, SM Skating Rink, SM Bowling and Leisure Center, Snack Time, and SM Cinema.  SMLEI aims to promote bonding activities among Filipino families and friends, through entertainment and leisure facilities, while advocating the ease of use and personalized service created to complement the Filipino lifestyle.

 

AXA gives kids Jr. NBA head start



 

AXA, the official insurance partner of the NBA in the Philippines, supported young Filipino basketball players as they participated in the Jr. NBA Philippines presented by Alaska Regional Selection Camp in Metro Manila. AXA backed Johnrey Catalan, Jamir Baldomar, Christian Jaojoco, Dexter Lugmay, Razel de Torres, John Greg Gawat, and Jam Lachica, who joined over 800 young players ages 10-14 at the tryouts held in Don Bosco Technical Institute, Makati City. AXA supports the NBA’s global youth basketball participation program, which teaches the fundamental skills and core values of basketball. For more information, visit www.axa.com.ph/nba. Photo shows AXA chief customer officer Amor Balagtas (fourth from left) and coach Dick Gawat (leftmost) with the AXA-sponsored kids.

 

 



Watch the American Idol Performance and Finale Shows Live on Sony Channel



 

Get ahead of the internet spoilers and watch the excitement directly from the US with Sony Channel’s live broadcast of American Idol’s performance and finale result shows!

After an exciting and unpredictable journey, America has voted for the top three hopefuls who will be performing next week to take this season’s American Idol crown: 

 



18-year-old Gabby Barrett’s (@gabbybarrett_) magnetic personality and powerhouse vocals have received high praise from the judges, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan.

 

 



 

Country singer, Caleb Lee Hutchinson (@calebleemusic) has been the hot favourite this season with his deep, soulful vocals and boyish charms.

 



 

Maddie Poppe (@maddiepoppe), a 20-year-old student who has a very distinct voice, stood out from the rest of the competitors with her unique take on popular songs.

 

 

Watch the live broadcast of the performance show on Monday, May 21 at 8am (7am JKT/BKK) and the finale result show on Tuesday, May 22 at 9am (8am JKT/BKK) on Sony Channel.

If you can’t get enough of their spectacular performances, tune-in to the encores of the performance show on Monday, May 21 at 6pm (5pm JKT/BKK) and 9.45pm (8:45pm JKT/BKK), and the finale result show on Tuesday May 22 at 6pm (5pm JKT/BKK) and 9:45pm (8:45pm JKT/BKK).

Join our Sony Channel event page to watch exclusive clips of their performances and receive reminder posts so that you wouldn’t miss the show. For more information, visit www.SonyChannelAsia.com and @SonyChannelAsia on Facebook and Twitter.

Sony Channel is available on Cablelink Channel 39, Cignal Channel 120, Destiny Cable
Channel 35, G Sat Channel 48, and SKYCable Channel 35.

 

 



AXA Philippines holds first management trainee boot camp



 

AXA, one of the leading insurance companies in the country, recently conducted its first management trainee program for students from top universities to help equip them with the critical skills needed for success. Dubbed AXA Bootcamp and held at the Manila Peninsula in Makati City, activities in the three-day workshop included a kick-off dinner with the AXA senior management team, a volunteer activity, and hands-on training through fun, simulation-based exercises. The program will provide students the opportunity to be offered exciting careers at AXA Philippines. Photo shows the 40 young talents who participated in the activities with AXA Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora, chief customer officer Amor Balagtas, chief transformation and technology officer John Hilson, and chief human resource officer Jaspreet Kakar.

 

 



Seafood extravagance at Seascape Village Bay Market

 Another food crawl for the media and food bloggers, this time at the newly open  Seascape Village.

Watch this video of our tour around the village and get ready to see the mouth-watering specialties they offer.

It's a seafood fest once again and it's overload with various seafood dishes from different restaurants.

Quench your thirst this hot summer by this refreshing WinterMelon Tea available at The Big 1.
Oh! I love the Winter Melon Frenzy and its jelly which is 95 pesos only.

We love seafood definitely, we will come back soon here and I will rumor our great experience to my family and friends.

The Seascape Village Bay Market is the first of the four phases of Seascape Village, which are all set to open in the next two years. The second phase is geared towards lifestyle and wellness. The third phase of the development is all about events and entertainment while the fourth phase will feature a hotel and commercial complex. Upon its completion, one of the main highlights of the property is beachfront that accords a view of Manila Bay and its famous sunset.

Seascape Village Bay Market is home to restaurants that offer Filipino, Asian, and fusion cuisines, and a wet and dry market that features fresh seafood trading. It is also a place where dining customers can enjoy an unobstructed view of the glorious Manila Bay sunset. 

The Philippines being a tropical archipelago, is also one of the world’s primary sources of fresh seafood. It comes as no surprise for locals and tourists to search for dining places that specialize in seafood. Setting apart the Bay Market is the unique experience of how it elevates the whole process of seafood dining – from selecting fresh and live fish, crabs, shells, and even lobsters, to choosing how it will be cooked – something that everyone is sure to enjoy.

To cater to different segments, the Seascape Village Bay Market has several restaurants that offer various price points – from casual gatherings to the more refined dining. Seascape Village is home to Mr. A’s Bar, Asian Taste Restaurant, Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps, Darwin’s Café Hong Kong Special, Fish Music Bar, GoGo Kitchen, Golden China, Golden Fortune, Lhong-E, Lola Ina’s Seafood Paluto Restaurant, Mazu Seaside Diner, Wow Cow Fresh Beef Hot Pot,  Yatai Asian Cuisine,  and other exciting food stalls.

“We really wanted to bring a new experience for locals and tourists alike. Seafood is one of the bountiful resources that we have and with Seascape Village, we are able to bring a more interactive experience to dining,” said Christine Suntay, Seascape Village Marketing and Events Head.

Seascape Village is located at Atang Dela Rama Street corner Zoilo Hilario Street, in between Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel and the Manila Film Center, within the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex in Pasay City.