Celebrating one year of living your freedom, lyf, the extraordinary experience-led co-living hospitality brand of Ascott Limited, capped off the month of August with back-to-back, year-defining events that saw both its properties in lyf Malate Manila and lyf Cebu City soar to new heights. The unprecedented event was supported by The Ascott Limited headquarters and other VIPs such as Ms. Sophie Mogul, The Ascott Limited’s  Vice President of Strategy, and Regional General Manager of Philippines & Malaysia, Ms. Adeline Phua, the Vice President and Managing Partner of lyf, as well as Ms. Chia Chu, the Associated Vice President of Operations for lyf. They were also joined by The Ascott Limited Philippines property partners, Cebu Landmasters in lyf Cebu and Mr. Tomas Lorenzo of Torre Lorenzo in lyf Malate, alongside esteemed representatives of the Department of Tourism. Together with the amazing community behind lyf, the two-day festivities on August 29 and 30 culminated with spectacular performances, delectable delights, heartwarming messages, and record-breaking achievements awarded to both properties after their herculean efforts.

lyf Cebu Thresher Shark Display

An upcycled Masterpiece preluded by the Ephemeral Thresher Shark Display

The celebration began at the Queen City of the South on August 29, where the Thresher Sharks, a majestic symbol of the property and the island, were given the spotlight beyond the already beautiful giant mural on the façade. On that day, 12,479 carefully folded origami sharks swam through the corners of lyf Cebu; Mr. Kazuyoshi Kirimura, the official Guinness World Record adjudicator, appreciated the incredible effort and recognized the titular property with the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the “Largest Display of Origami Sharks.”

lyf Cebu

lyf’s brilliant conservation partner, Save Philippine Seas, was also present to impart their invaluable knowledge to the wonderful community of lyf during the event, sharing how we can all play an active role in protecting the Pelagic Thresher Shark (Alopias Pelagiucs) endemic to Cebu’s local waters, in doing so preserving its vibrant ecosystem.

“Today marks a pivotal achievement for us, and we are very grateful for our fantastic community for coming together and finding a new place to belong here in lyf Cebu City,” said Rey Vergel Mulat, the lyf Champion and residence manager of lyf Cebu City “Beyond the celebration, we also take pride in our continued commitment to sustainability practices as stewards of responsible hospitality.” 

Despite the monumental achievement of solidifying lyf as the number one specialty lodging in the city, the property still has big plans just around the corner. Guests are encouraged to take their time appreciating the masterfully made paperwork as the temporary display will be upcycled into an even grander art piece that will be revealed in an event that you will want to attend.

A Thrilling lyf Full of Stars 

On the evening of Friday, August 30, lyf Malate Manila also picked up on the celebration and, in true lyf fashion, invited and called upon their community to a star-themed event that commemorated Filipinos worldwide. During the event, those in attendance also witnessed lyf history. Through the arduous effort of everyone, from the regulars of lyf to the several Ascott Limited properties nationwide that lent their support to the property, an astounding 100,000 origami stars transformed into a masterful and artistic paperwork display that made lyf Malate into a new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title holder for the “Largest Display of Origami Stars.” 

lyf Malate Guinness World Records

The momentous occasion also celebrated the country’s history by including the traditional wooden Balangay and galleons in the artistic vision. Used by the ancestral Filipinos, guided by the stars during ancient seafaring voyages across the Pacific islands and the Philippine galleon trade from 1565 to 1815, that celebrates the Philippines as the vital link connecting Europe through Spain, Asia through the Philippines, and the Americas through Mexico.

Throughout the night, there was an uncanny energy in the air, starting from “lyf Centrale,” the community market of the property that was chock-full of collaboration that showcased a superb lineup of products to the awarding of the highly acclaimed accolade. The evening of celebrations was further elevated by the spectacular after-party, which saw multiple showstopping performances from Philippine Billboard top 100 artists Maki and Over October, together with the sensational beats of renowned DJ Rammy Bitong, the storied Malvar Street of lyf Malate was the place to be that Friday. 

“Words cannot do justice to what was achieved by lyf and its community in these two days,” said Joyce Agsaway, lyf Champion and Director of Operational Excellence for lyf Malate Manila. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime moment, a dream that became a miraculous reality through the phenomenal effort of the most outstanding community, colleagues, and partners anyone could hope for.”

Much like its sister property, lyf Malate has no plans on resting on its laurels. It has also partnered up with Junknot’s Willie Garcia, a creative out-of-the-box artist, to upcycle the origami sharks and stars into a stellar new display for all to enjoy, so be sure to watch for the next big thing they’ll have planned for you together with their vibrant and ever-growing community.

Throughout September, NUSTAR Resort Cebu offers guests and their families an unforgettable celebration of Mid-Autumn Festival with delightful dining indulgence, luxurious staycations, limited edition handcrafted mooncakes – and a must-see lavish, immersive display at the atrium illuminated by an abundance of colorful lanterns.

A Luxurious Celebration of Tradition 

NUSTAR honors the spirit of this cherished Chinese tradition in style, providing the perfect destination for family gatherings and reunions. During the month-long festivities, guests can experience captivating live traditional music at The Atrium, highlighting the magic and splendor of our rich cultural heritage. At the heart of the celebration at NUSTAR lies our magnificent centerpiece, a breathtaking display filled with colorful lanterns and a charming bridge that transports visitors on a symbolic journey to China. This installation promises to be a visual spectacle, showcasing intricate lantern displays, artistic decor, and thematic setups that transform NUSTAR into a dreamlike setting. The luxurious ambiance and thoughtfully curated details aim to establish NUSTAR as the premier destination for those seeking both cultural richness and sophisticated leisure. 

 Exclusive September Promotions at NUSTAR 

As part of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebration, NUSTAR invites guests to indulge in exclusive promotions this September. Fili Hotel offers the ultimate blend of comfort and sophistication. Guests who book a stay from now until September 30, 2024, can enjoy a complimentary buffet breakfast for two at Fili Cafe and an automatic room upgrade, enhancing their stay with added luxury. For those who wish to ex tend their escape, Fili Hotel provides a complimentary buffet breakfast for two when they book a longer stay, making it the perfect reason to linger a little longer in paradise. 

For a vibrant social experience, the Fili Lobby Lounge presents the “2+1 Signature Cocktails” promotion, available from August 1 to September 30, 2024. When guests purchase two signature cocktails, they receive a third drink for free, perfect for sampling the Lounge’s creative concoctions.  

At Fili Cafe, guests can enjoy a delightful buffet experience with a 25% discount on lunch and dinner until September 30, 2024. Do not miss Fili’s Sunday Lunch Special, where you can savor a delicious meal at a reduced price, ideal for a leisurely weekend gathering with loved ones. 

For an elevated evening of entertainment, Mott 32 offers an experience unlike any other. Guests can enjoy exquisite cocktails starting at just Php288 every Thursday to Saturday, from 8:30 PM to 11:00 PM, until September 30, 2024. Set against a backdrop of elegance, this is the perfect setting for a refined and enjoyable evening. 

Celebrate at NUSTAR – A Truly Luxurious Destination 

NUSTAR Resort Cebu is committed to providing guests with unparalleled experiences that combine luxury with cultural heritage. Throughout the property, guests can find exquisite mooncakes by our Executive Chef, Martin Rebolledo, available for purchase at select outlets. These mooncakes are exclusively available to dine-in guests only, ensuring a unique and luxurious experience.  

Whether one chooses to partake in the Mooncake Festival festivities, marvel at NUSTAR’s captivating installations, or enjoy its exclusive September promotions, NUSTAR is the ultimate destination for luxury and lifestyle in Cebu. 

Follow NUSTAR Resort Cebu on Facebook and Instagram and visit www.nustar.com.ph for the latest events and offerings.

Robert Kiyosaki's rich dad says, "You can never have true freedom without financial freedom." 

Needless to say, financial freedom is a goal that many aspire to achieve, but few know how to reach it.  It’s a journey that requires knowledge, discipline, and the right tools. 

IMG International Marketing Group

Financial literacy is the way to financial freedom. Unfortunately, it is one of the most disregarded subjects people are dealing with. For many Filipinos, understanding the complexities of personal  finance can seem daunting. This is where the International Marketing Group (IMG) steps in with its "30M by 2030 Financial Literacy Campaign," joined by Filipino and Cebuano blogger JP Abecilla - The  Millennial Writer. To complement the IMG's campaign, I'm also strengthening my personal advocacy: "Gain Financial Literacy to Achieve Financial Freedom." 

The Need for Financial Literacy in the Philippines 

The Philippines, like many developing countries, faces a significant gap in financial literacy. A survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) found that only 25% of Filipino adults are financially literate. This lack of knowledge leads to poor financial decisions, such as insufficient savings, lack of insurance coverage, and minimal investments. Without a solid understanding of how money works, many Filipinos are trapped in a cycle of debt, living paycheck to paycheck, and unable  to secure a comfortable future. 

IMG recognized this need and has dedicated itself to empowering Filipinos through financial 

education. The campaign "30MBy30" is more than just a slogan; it's a movement designed to equip  individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to take control of their financial future. As such, the campaign was also joined by top Philippine personalities, such as Ms. Korina Sanchez-Roxas and Senator Raffy Tulfo. 

30M by 2030 Financial Literacy Campaign

What Is IMG? 

The International Marketing Group (IMG) is a global financial services company that offers comprehensive financial education and assistance. Founded on the principle of providing equal opportunities for everyone, IMG is committed to breaking the barriers of financial ignorance and promoting a culture of financial independence. 

IMG's platform is unique in that it doesn’t just offer financial products; it provides a holistic approach to financial education. Members are not only taught the basics of personal finance but are also given the tools and resources to implement what they’ve learned. This approach ensures that knowledge is turned into action, leading to real financial progress. 

IMG Mission

The Core Components of the Campaign 

1. Education First: At the heart of IMG's campaign is education. Through a variety of seminars, webinars, workshops, and online courses, IMG members are given access to a wealth of information on topics such as saving, investing, insurance, debt management, and retirement planning. This education is designed to be practical and actionable, making it accessible even to those with little to no financial background.
2. Financial Products and Services: IMG partners with some of the largest financial institutions in the Philippines and around the world. These partnerships allow IMG members to access a wide range of financial products, from mutual funds and insurance to healthcare and real estate. What sets IMG apart is its focus on teaching members how to choose and use these products wisely, rather than just selling them. Some of the top companies they partner with are Kaiser International Healthgroup, Inc. and Manila Bankers Life Insurance Corp.
3. Community and Support: Financial freedom is not a journey that should be taken alone.  IMG fosters a community of like-minded individuals who support and motivate each  other. This sense of community is a crucial aspect of the campaign, as it provides a network of support, accountability, and shared learning.
4. Business Opportunities: IMG believes that financial literacy should also lead to financial  opportunities. Members who are passionate about financial education can take their learning a step further by becoming financial educators themselves. IMG offers a business platform where members can earn while teaching others about financial  literacy, thus creating a ripple effect of financial empowerment. 

The Impact of the Campaign 

Since its inception, the financial literacy campaign has made a significant impact on the lives of countless Filipinos. Through its educational programs, IMG has helped individuals and families gain control over their finances, reduce debt, increase savings, and start investing in their future. Many have gone from being financially dependent to financially independent, and some have even built successful businesses within IMG’s platform. 

Why Financial Literacy Matters 

Financial literacy is more than just understanding numbers; it’s about making informed  decisions that can change the course of your life. In a country where many are unbanked and underinsured, where the culture of savings is weak, and where debt is often seen as a necessary evil, financial literacy is a beacon of hope. 

By educating Filipinos about the importance of financial planning, IMG is helping to build a nation of financially responsible individuals who can contribute to the country’s economic growth. Financially literate individuals are better equipped to handle emergencies, plan for  their retirement, and make investments that will secure their future and that of their families.

How to Get Involved 

If you’re ready to take control of your financial future, joining IMG’s campaign is a great first  step. Whether you’re just starting on your financial journey or you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, IMG offers the resources, tools, and community to support you every step of the way. 

Becoming a part of IMG’s movement is not just about gaining financial literacy for yourself;  it’s about spreading that knowledge to others. As more Filipinos become financially literate, the collective financial health of the nation improves, leading to a more prosperous and  equitable society. 

Cebuano blogger JP Abecilla - The  Millennial Writer

To supplement IMG's vision, the "Gain Financial Literacy to Achieve Financial Freedom" advocacy of The Millennial Writer was initiated to transform more lives. By focusing on financial education, offering practical financial tools, and building a supportive community like IMG, we're empowering Filipinos to take control of their finances and achieve the freedom they deserve. 

Financial freedom is not a distant dream; it’s a reality that can be achieved through knowledge, action, and support. Join IMG today and take the first step towards a financially secure future. You can directly contact JP Abecilla for more information or schedule an appointment HERE today!

Cebu is undoubtedly a wonderful place to live in: it is vibrant and full of activities and destinations. It is no surprise that many are looking for the perfect home in Cebu, especially one that best fits their family. Fortunately, there are many choices for families to thrive and grow, including Camella communities in Cebu.

There is no better place to experience modern comforts without breaking the bank than Cebu City. A business district, hospitals, schools, and entertainment hubs are within minutes of each other. The Cebu IT Park is where multinational companies have built offices and run large-scale operations.

Because of the work and educational opportunities the city offers, Cebu is a hotspot for the most sought-after homes in the province, of which Camella properties are at the forefront. Camella has two family-friendly subdivisions with views of sloping hills and the sea within Talamban in Cebu: Riverdale and Riverfront. 

Riverdale is a community set against the panoramic hills of Talamban in Cebu featuring Southern American-themed luxury homes.

Riverdale is a 13-hectare Southern American-themed community set against the panoramic peaks and clusters of pine trees while Riverfront is a residential enclave featuring the best-selling homes of Camella in an expanse of almost 10 hectares. This pine community features homes built on gently undulating terrain that fuses the efficiency of modern architecture with the natural contours of the land.

Linked to Cebu City via the South Coastal Highway, Azienda sits atop the hills of Talisay with five enclaves, each of which stays true to its Italian them.

For those preferring a more laidback atmosphere yet still want the sensibilities of modern living, Camella in Talisay streamlines the search for the ideal home in Cebu. Linked to the city through the South Coastal Highway, Azienda sits atop the hills of Talisay and comprises five enclaves that stays true to its Italian theme. 

Lapu-Lapu City is on Mactan Island, where the abundance of beach resorts and natural sites is what every family will appreciate. It is also where the Mactan-Cebu International Airport is located. Despite the increasing interest of homebuyers in the locale, Camella still guarantees a relaxing family lifestyle in the gated Camella Montserrat and Vittoria. Either development places families at the heart of a resort city, where beautiful beaches are just a stone’s throw away. 

The gated 17-hectare Camella Bogo features the best of modern and rustic living with its Spanish-Mediterranean theme.

One of the frontrunners outside of Metro Cebu has to be Bogo City due to the rapid developments in the area. The best of modern and rustic living with the Spanish-Mediterranean architecture is found in the gated17-hectare Camella Bogo. The homes are perfect for those looking at starter homes or a place to put down roots for generations.

Camella Carcar offers convenience and easy access to schools, recreational areas, and shopping centers-the ideal place to call home.

Carcar City has a tight knit community, preserving traditional Cebuano values. A home in Camella Carcar situates homeowners in the middle of this lively community, close to transportation routes and major centers. The 40-hectare Camella Carcar offers homes of modern charm with its Spanish-inspired architecture. It is conveniently connected to the city center through the South Road project, captivating prospective investors with its blend of the exciting urban rush and longed-for respite. 

A family home is more than just the physical structure and a roof over one’s head. It should provide opportunities for growth and strengthen family ties. Camella in Cebu ensures that you get that and more with its line-up of developments.  

For more information on Camella communities in Cebu, visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial.

BingoPlus, your comprehensive entertainment platform in the country and provider of your favorite online games, joins action with DigiPlus Interactive Corp. and BingoPlus Foundation for the BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival on July 27, 2024.

Kim Chiu, named the newest celebrity endorser of BingoPlus during BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival

BingoPlus is a known provider of fun and entertainment that also dedicates itself to creating lasting and positive change in the community through the BingoPlus Foundation.

This is a one of a kind partnership within the brands wherein DigiPlus, the holding company of BingoPlus and the Foundation, will be donating Php1 for every 100-peso-bet placed on the BingoPlus app to the Foundation. For instance, DigiPlus will donate Php 1 million to the Foundation if the accumulated bets on BingoPlus reach Php 100 million.

Crowd at BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival

The total donation is set to be announced on July 27. Players can place as many 100-peso-bets as they want to help BingoPlus raise the donation, with the total amount going to the Foundation capped at Php 18 million.

Philippines Accessible Disability Services with Jasper Vicencio, President AB Leisure Exponent Inc. and Andy Tsui, President DigiPlus Interactive Corp.

Jasper Vicencio, President AB Leisure Exponent Inc. and Andy Tsui, President DigiPlus Interactive Corp. with one of the recipient of donations.

Through this tri-party collaboration, BingoPlus Foundation can create more capacity-building programs for the people under the guidance of its four advocacies: Technology Education, Responsible Digitalization, Accessible Healthcare, and Community Resilience. Each of these advocacies are inline with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aim to create a digitally advanced and resilient Philippines.

BingoPlus describes this aspect of BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival as the “Road to 18M, show your care, share a piso.” BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival is an event made with BingoPlus’ partners and supporters in mind, with the core goal of extending the brand’s heartfelt gratitude. It is done in partnership with various groups. The celebration will be produced by Cornerstone Events.

G22 at BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival

YENG Constantino at BingoPlus Day Cebu Carnival

(L-R) Andy Tsui, President DigiPlus Interactive Corp. Kim Chiu, new BingoPlus Endorser and Jasper Vicencio, President AB Leisure Exponent Inc.

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, with more to come.

BingoPlus is a leading platform for various forms of entertainment for Filipinos where players can explore online games and many other game choices to have fun at home. For more information, visit: www.bingoplus.com or download the app now from App store and Google Play