Wednesday, June 18, 2025

“Go Healthy with Taiwan” global contest with grand prize of USD30,000 – now inviting entries on proposals for health and wellness solutions


Taiwan Excellence launches their annual contest for innovative proposals, with this year’s theme entitled: “Go Healthy with Taiwan.” To improve global health standards and promote overall well-being in communities and cities around the world, Taiwan Excellence encourages those from governments, institutions, and organizations to submit their original ideas that integrate holistic solutions and high-quality health products from Taiwan.

The “Go Healthy with Taiwan” campaign brings into the spotlight five key sectors of Taiwan’s health industry: smart healthcare, medical aesthetics and wellness, fitness equipment, sports technologies, and bicycles. Long recognized as the “Bicycle Kingdom,” Taiwan is a global leader in high-end bicycle manufacturing and innovations in sustainability. 

Taiwanese companies are among the world’s top suppliers in fitness equipment, integrating AI with strong R&D and manufacturing capabilities. In smart healthcare, Taiwan leverages its advanced ICT, semiconductor expertise, and elite medical system to offer integrated solutions for the global health tech market.

“Go Healthy with Taiwan” Global Kickoff Event

The event to officially launch the campaign was held in Taiwan on Tuesday, June 3. The press conference welcomed distinguished guests including Mr. Robert Wu, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association; Mr. Jeff Chen, President of the Taiwan Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association; and Mr. Spark Huang, Director of the Taiwan Medical and Biotech Industry Association, alongside key industry representatives. 

Media representatives from 12 international outlets across Europe, the U.S., Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, as well as foreign diplomats in Taiwan, also attended in support of the campaign.

The campaign’s promotional theme, aptly titled “Pitching Taiwan’s Best: A Homerun for Proposals!”, was unveiled during the event. The Taiwanese baseball star, Mr. An-Ko Lin, made a surprise appearance along with the mascot of Taiwan Excellence, Fu Bear. With the venue transformed into the likeness of a baseball field, Lin and Fu Bear reenacted symbolic home runs to represent Taiwan championing top-tier health solutions and collaboration with innovators across the globe.

Ms. Susan Hu, Deputy Director General of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), noted the contest’s goal for Taiwan and for the world. “President Lai Chiang-te is actively advancing the vision of a “Healthy Taiwan.” By encouraging global participation and collaboration for a healthier future, this campaign marks a significant step in bringing this vision to life.”

Mr. Joe Chou, Executive Vice President of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), speaks about the importance of the campaign from a national to global scale. “This international call not only highlights the strength and innovation of Taiwan’s comprehensive health industry, but also encourages partnerships between nations around the world that advance smart and sustainable healthy lifestyles with the help of Taiwan’s leading technologies and solutions.”

How to Join “Go Healthy with Taiwan”

“Go Healthy with Taiwan” aims to build on the success of last year’s “Go Green with Taiwan” contest–which received 396 submissions from 45 countries. This year, the contest’s goal is to receive over 500 entries from across 5 continents, further expanding international reach and practical applications from Taiwan. 

All high-quality entries will be given opportunities to explore collaboration with world-class Taiwanese companies, and the top three proposals will each be awarded USD30,000.

The submission period is open from May 15 to August 14, 2025. For more information, visit the official website at http://gohealthy.taiwanexcellence.org. For updates on the “Go Healthy with Taiwan” contest, follow Taiwan Excellence PH on Facebook and Instagram.

Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), through the commission of the Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA), opens the call around the world for proposals under the theme “Go Healthy with Taiwan” 

–to increase the visibility of Taiwan in the health industry and to foster global partnerships with opportunities for local implementation. Taiwan Excellence, the joint project by TAITRA and TITA, eagerly invites everyone to join the initiative of innovative, healthy solutions for the world.


Friday, May 9, 2025

What’s new at SM Supermalls? Rediscover every day with the ultimate home to many firsts


Home is comfortable. But with nothing new to try and experience, home can feel ordinary. With SM Supermalls, your everyday life never gets dull! From first-in-the-Philippines dining experiences to new and excitingly fresh shopping destinations, SM Supermalls elevates your everyday adventure by bringing local excellence and world-class sensations closer to you. Whether you’re craving to try out international flavors, aiming to discover rising local gems, or wanting to immerse yourself in cutting-edge lifestyle trends—SM Supermalls is your ultimate home to many exciting firsts.



Home to Authentic Italian Flavors


The finest flavors of Italy are now closer than ever! Rossopomodoro debuts its renowned Neapolitan pizza with its signature charred crust, creamy mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes as it opens its first-ever home in Asia at SM Mall of Asia (MOA). Meanwhile, Osteria Antica opens its doors at Level 6, Podium Social – SM Podium, serving authentic Italian dishes crafted with time-honored techniques, set against an equally breathtaking backdrop of interiors. 



Home to Korean and Taiwanese Cuisines

Welcome the richness of East Asian culinary innovations with these exciting new dining destinations. Du Hsiao Yueh headlines its time-honored techniques with its heritage Tainan-style Dan Zai noodles, while Maple Tree House serves popular Korean meals featuring premium grilled BBQ, both located at SM MOA. At SM Podium, Paldo offers an authentic Korean fine dining experience, specially curated by a masterful chef from Korea.


Lugang Café, renowned for its authentic Taiwanese cuisine and exceptional dining experience, is excited to announce the grand opening of its first-ever branch in SM Seaside City Cebu. Cebuano diners can now savor the celebrated flavors such as Three-Cup Chicken, Steamed Xiao Long Bao and Crispy Chicken that have made Lugang Café a beloved name. Meanwhile, Leo Pizza at SM City Fairview redefines comfort food with its unique K-style pizza rendition.



Home to World-class Food Sensations


In SM Aura, the obsession for food just got more exciting with Philippines’ freshly launched, first-ever Burger & Lobster, bringing London's iconic surf-and-turf duo to local food lovers. 




Home to Newly Launched Classic Favorites

In SM City Lipa, Subway welcomes its first branch in SM Supermalls, Batangas, offering stacked, flavor-packed subs for Batangueños to enjoy. While at SM CDO Downtown, Barkadahan Grill opens its newest store, serving Filipino classics and time-tested comfort food.



Home to Clothing and Fitness Essentials

Everyday essentials for your first-time hobbies and elevated fashion statements are here at SM Supermalls. For our fashion-forward shoppers, Hechter Paris brings French high fashion to SM Seaside City Cebu, offering tailored, effortless clothing, headlining with the minimalist, contemporary styles of The Editor’s Market in SM MOA. For our more active go-getters, Juego delivers high-performance sportswear and athletic gear designs at SM City Fairview.




Home to Coffee and Frozen Treat Lovers


Coffee and dessert lovers will find new favorites with exciting openings across SM Supermalls. Tah-me Frozen Yogurt debuts at SM Seaside City Cebu, serving specialty yogurt known for its distinguished creamy and tangy fusion of flavors. Swirl Studio at SM City Fairview delights with customizable desserts, while Coffee Spot offers specialty brews made from premium-sourced beans, perfect for connoisseurs. For the first time in SM, Hoshino Coffee introduces its famous hand-dripped coffee and fluffy soufflé pancakes—straight from Japan to SM J Mall!




Home to Firsts Yet to Come

Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant, an exciting seafood destination, is set to make waves for the first time in SM Supermalls—coming soon to SM CDO Downtown! Nine Pot is set to bring its signature Taiwanese hot pot to SM City Clark, while ramen and sushi lovers can look forward to Yuki-Kun and Ramen Nagi, both opening their first-ever Cebu branches at SM J Mall.

For dedicated café lovers, The Matcha Tokyo is coming to SM City Clark, serving authentic and high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha and matcha-infused desserts. Meanwhile, Salon de Thé, a refined café extension of French Baker, is set to open at SM J Mall, offering an elegant escape with a delightful serving of French patisserie. Beyond dining, SM Supermalls continues to introduce new activities to explore with iSwing Golf Arena—an indoor golf experience at SM J Mall.

With unlimited shopping destinations and endless first-time experiences to enjoy, SM Supermalls brings the world closer to you, making every visit fresh, exciting, and unforgettable. SM Supermalls—redefining what it means to experience the world for the first time as your ultimate home to many firsts!


Download the SM Malls Online App on the Apple App Store and Google Play for exclusive deals and promos.

Stay updated with the latest #HomeOfFirsts news and events by visiting www.smsupermalls.com and following @smsupermalls on all social media platforms.


SM Supermalls #HomeOfFirsts 

At SM Supermalls, we take pride in being the Home of Firsts—bringing you the first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that inspire and connect communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and delivering memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and memorable waiting for you at SM.

ITALIAN ARTISTRY FROM APERITIVO TO DINING: Discover Osteria Antica, the First in the Philippines, at SM Podium

The glow of a wood-fired oven, the scent of slow-cooked sauces, and the comfort of a well-prepared meal—Osteria Antica brings bold Italian flavors to Podium Social at SM Podium. With its warm ambiance, the restaurant stays true to traditional recipes, using fresh, high-quality ingredients with a modern flair.


Whether it's a casual lunch or intimate dinner, Osteria Antica offers a refined yet comforting taste of Italy in the heart of the city.

The Art of Italian Dining - The Wildflour Hospitality Group brings in a new Italian dining concept with Osteria Antica that brings in the charm of traditional Italian osterias with a fresh take on Italian classics. 


With a Valoriani oven for perfectly baked pizzas and a curated selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails, Osteria Antica stays true to tradition while adding a refined touch. Whether it’s a simple, flavorful pasta or a bold Italian classic, each plate delivers rich Italian flavors.


Signature Dishes That Define the Oseria Antica Experience

At Osteria Antica, each dish reflects bold Italian flavors and craftsmanship, from handmade pasta to expertly prepared mains.

The Endive Salad balances crisp textures and bright, citrusy notes, true to the light and vibrant flavors of Italy. 


The Rigatoni Carbonara is a comforting classic, made the traditional way with rich, savory depth. 


To end on a sweet note, the Mascarpone Cheesecake offers a creamy, delicate finish that captures the essence of Italian indulgence.

The restaurant also features Bar Antica, which offers a selection of wines, cocktails, and spirits that pair seamlessly with the menu. 


A New Culinary Destination at Podium SocialAseamless addition to SM Podium, Osteria Antica offers a fresh take on the classic Italian osteria. The restaurant blends tradition with modern touches, creating a space both welcoming and refined. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in an indoor setting adorned with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, leather seats, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, or on a charming veranda with a cityscape backdrop.



With its inviting atmosphere and commitment to personable service, Osteria Antica adds to the growing dining scene at Podium Social, a vibrant space on the 6th floor of SM Podium with the perfect ambiance for dining and socializing, offering a diverse mix of culinary experiences. As more restaurants open in the area, it continues to establish itself as the top spot for quality dining, offering a mix of familiar favorites and new flavors. This expansion highlights SM Supermalls’ commitment to bringing more dining options to Filipino diners in the heart of the city.


Discover the flavors of Italy at Osteria Antica, now open at Social Podium in SM Podium. For more exclusive dining experiences and first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.


Monday, April 28, 2025

Vista Land Communities Embrace the Season of Summerscapes with Easter Joy and a Vision for New Beginnings

Camella launched an Egg Hunt through its Facebook page and website. Two lucky participants who found the most number of Easter eggs won hotel gift certificates.

Building on the warmth and enthusiasm for the summer season, Vista Land invites families to step into Summerscapes, its overarching campaign for the second quarter of 2025. The theme captures the essence of the warmest time of the year—its sense of freedom, its power to renew, and its ability to bring people together. This idyllic period spans from Easter and Mother's Day to countless family milestones that mirror the traditions and aspirations of Filipinos. 

Summerscapes is an invitation to dream, pause, and act—to take those first sunlit steps toward a brighter, more intentional rhythm of life. Vista Land understands that summer is a time to reflect on goals, consider new chapters, and invest in lasting legacies. As the country's leading integrated property developer, the company continues to champion this vision by developing communities that empower homeowners to live their best lives.

Through Easter activities, Camella reminds us of a significant truth: the journey of building a future is an adventure best experienced with loved ones in a place that feels like home.


Anchored by themes of celebration, relaxation, and gratitude, Summerscapes is a reminder that every season holds the potential to be life-changing. Whether finding a forever home, nurturing stronger bonds with loved ones, or simply enjoying every waking moment, Vista Land supports every Filipino journey with beautifully designed spaces and lifestyle-enriching amenities.


As summer unfolds, Vista Land will continue to roll out exciting offerings that reflect the promise and energy of the season. 

Vista Land’s Easter Quest gathered homeowners, investors, and their families in a fun-filled day of fresh starts, mutual discovery, and meaningful connections in Davao City.


Bringing Easter to life across the islands 

In a burst of color, laughter, and adventure, Vista Land brought Easter to life across its residential properties nationwide. 


Easter Quest gathered homebuyers, business partners, and their families in a fun-filled day of fresh starts, mutual discovery, and meaningful connections. Communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao participated in The Hunt for Five Golden Eggs—an obstacle course where participants took on a series of challenges testing their wit, agility, and creativity. Each interactive stop led them to a prized golden egg, with every find guiding them to the next activity. The first to complete all stages and successfully piece the clues together earned the title of Easter Quest champion in their neighborhood.

The Easter event in Ilocos captures the essence of the warmest time of the year—its sense of freedom, its power to renew, and its ability to bring people together.


Adding a heartwarming twist to the celebration, Hoppy Tails: The Easter Pet Parade welcomed four-legged companions into the spotlight. Pets of varied shapes and sizes strutted alongside residents in Easter-themed outfits, vying for awards such as Best Costume, Cutest Pet, and Most Creative Entry, as well as commemorative goodies and merchandise. This inclusion not only strengthened camaraderie and belonging but also highlighted how the pet-friendly environments of Vista Land contribute to building happier and more holistic communities.


Taking the celebration to the digital space, flagship brand Camella launched an Egg Hunt through its official Facebook page and website. Designed to connect with aspiring homebuyers online, the activity challenged participants to spot Easter eggs cleverly hidden in community images. Two lucky participants who found the highest number of Easter eggs were rewarded with hotel gift certificates to overnight stays for two with buffet breakfast.  The effort underscored the ongoing commitment of the Philippines' leading homebuilder to utilize technology in crafting engaging, value-driven experiences that connect with savvy homebuyers.

In a burst of color, laughter, and adventure, Vista Land  brought Easter to life in the Queen City of the South.


Through the Easter Quest, Vista Land reminds us of a significant truth: the journey of building a future is an adventure best experienced with loved ones and best begun in a place that feels like home. It was a celebration of Easter and life itself—joyous, hopeful, and shared.


An investment into a better way of living

As the holding company of the residential ventures of Vista Group, Vista Land is primarily engaged in developing horizontal properties, master planned communities, and the construction of vertical residences in the Philippines' key growth areas.


Filipinos deserve the best—this driving belief has been integral to Vista Land and its day-to-day operations and is the secret to its success. Creating better, expansive, and global-oriented offerings and experiences for its residents and delivering excellent long-term investment growth for its stakeholders has always been the impetus behind the conglomerate's continuous evolution.


For more information on Vista Land, visit www.vistaland.com.ph and follow @VistaLandAndLifescapesOfficial.

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Mang Inasal declares March 30 as ‘National Halo-Halo Blowout’ Day


Summer just got sweeter! Mang Inasal is making March 30 extra special with a one-day National Halo-Halo Blowout to celebrate the country’s favorite summer dessert.

This Sunday, customers can enjoy the Extra Creamy Halo-Halo Small Size for only ₱39, saving ₱31 when ordering for dine-in or takeout at any Mang Inasal branch nationwide.

"Mang Inasal is proud to be the country’s Halo-Halo destination, where families and friends come together to enjoy the creamiest, most flavorful summer treat," said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. "And this summer, we want all our customers to enjoy the Mang Inasal National Halo-Halo Blowout with their loved ones and experience the Unli-Saya that only Mang Inasal can bring!"

After the dine-in and takeout edition, Mang Inasal’s National Halo-Halo Blowout continues with a delivery-exclusive offer on April 6. Customers can get the Extra Creamy Halo-Halo Small for just ₱49 through the Mang Inasal Delivery app, website (https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph), GrabFood, and foodpanda.

To make summer even more exciting, Mang Inasal’s CreamyYESS Halo-Halo Caravan is touring select locations nationwide, offering free samples of its Extra Creamy Halo-Halo. This initiative is also part of the Department of Tourism’s Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines campaign, which showcases the best of Filipino flavors.

Meanwhile, the #MangInasalCreamyYESSSummer TikTok Challenge continues to take over social media! Fans can join by posting their take on Fyang Smith’s viral dance, with a chance to win amazing Mang Inasal e-Gifts. The challenge runs until May 31.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit https://manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!