A New Era of Premium Travel Experiences

EastWest Bank, in collaboration with KrisFlyer, the rewards programme of the Singapore Airlines Group, proudly staged its milestone celebration of the enhanced EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World and Platinum Mastercard credit cards. The event, held in Cebu at the NuStar Hotel on October 11, 2024, marks another significant moment in EastWest's continued commitment to providing premium travel experiences to its valued customers.

The unveiling of the new, eco-friendly design of the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World and Platinum Mastercard credit cards in Cebu City

A Perfect Partnership for Travelers

The milestone celebration was a culmination of the longstanding partnership between EastWest Bank and KrisFlyer, the rewards programme of Singapore Airlines Group, which has consistently delivered exceptional value to frequent travelers through the years. The EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World and Platinum Mastercard credit cards are perfectly designed for those who aspire to reach their milestone destinations sooner and to travel more frequently, by empowering them to earn KrisFlyer miles easily for their travel and overseas spend.

CELEBRATING 5 YEARS OF PARTNERSHIP. Executives from East West Banking Corporation, Singapore Airlines Group, and Mastercard raise a toast to mark their successful 5-year collaboration. At an intimate event held at Fili Hotel, NuStar Resort in Cebu City, they also unveiled the new eco-friendly design of the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard credit cards. From left to right: Mia Tamayo (SVP and Head, Credit Cards, East West Banking Corporation), Judith Dayrit (VP, Account Management Head, Mastercard), Elaine Thamm (VP, Business Development, Mastercard), Jovi Abad (FVP and Head, CLC VisMin, East West Banking Corporation), Lawrence Lee (EVP and Head, Consumer Lending, East West Banking Corporation), Jacqueline Fernandez (President, East West Banking Corporation), Jerry Ngo (CEO, East West Banking Corporation), Bryan Koh (Divisional VP, Loyalty Marketing, Singapore Airlines), Liwei Tai (General Manager Philippines, Singapore Airlines), and Sherlin Oh (Regional Manager, KrisFlyer Partnerships, Singapore Airlines).

Proud Cebuano and East West Banking Corporation CEO Jerry Ngo warmly welcomes partners and media guests to his hometown at the celebration of the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard

East West Banking Corporation SVP and Head of Credit Cards, Mia Tamayo, addresses questions from Cebu-based media during a roundtable discussion after the launch of the eco-friendly EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard credit cards

“Over the years, I’ve earned miles that have taken my family and me to various destinations, helping us create unforgettable memories. These moments align perfectly with the promise of our credit cards—helping you earn more miles and reach new milestones, making your travel experiences even more rewarding.” said Jerry G. Ngo, CEO of EastWest Bank.

Key Features of the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World and Platinum Mastercard

Highlighting EastWest’s focus on delivering premier financial products that meet the sophisticated needs of Filipino travelers, the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard credit cards feature a new premium and sophisticated design that is recyclable and environmentally friendly, further elevating the travel experience. Cardholders will enjoy exceptional benefits, including earning KrisFlyer miles for every purchase, lounge access, and exclusive travel perks across Singapore Airlines’ global network. The EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard credit cards offer an unparalleled suite of benefits tailored specifically for travelers:

• KrisFlyer Miles Earned on every purchase: With a  generous purchase to-miles  conversion rate of 1 KrisFlyer mile per PHP 12 spent on World and 1 KrisFlyer mile per PHP15 spent on Platinum, cardholders can earn more miles across various categories, including flights with Singapore Airlines and Scoot, purchases at KrisShop, Pelago, Kris+,  other travel-related expenses and e-commerce spend .
• Mastercard® Travel Pass Provided by DragonPass (MTP): This feature elevates the travel experience by offering access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including exclusive access through the Plaza Premium Group partnership. The MTP app ensures a seamless experience, providing real-time updates on lounge access, travel information, and dining offers.
• Low Foreign Currency Conversion Fee: A low 1.70% fee on international purchases allows cardholders to indulge in guilt-free shopping abroad.
• Free Comprehensive Travel Insurance: The cards provide up to Php 20 million in travel insurance coverage for the cardholder and their family when travel expenses are charged to the card, ensuring peace of mind during every journey.
• Mastercard® Travel and Lifestyle Services: Cardholders can access exclusive travel perks, including guaranteed lowest hotel rates and personalized trip recommendations through a dedicated Lifestyle Manager.

The EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World Mastercard is a premium credit card designed for those who live life to the fullest and are passionate about travel. It offers cardholders the opportunity to earn KrisFlyer miles faster and enjoy a range of travel-related perks.

Cebuana key opinion leader Kryz Uy joins East West Banking Corporation executives Mia Tamayo and Jerry Ngo during the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard celebration

Cebuana socialites and key opinion leaders—Binibining Cebu 2018 Steffi Aberasturi, YouTuber Kryz Uy, and personal finance influencer Charm de Leon—pose during the celebration of the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard at Fili Hotel, NuStar Resort, Cebu City.

Miss Earth 2008 Karla Henry graces the celebration of EastWest's 5-year partnership with Singapore Airlines Group and Mastercard for the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Mastercard, held at Fili Hotel, NuStar Resort, Cebu City

With the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World Mastercard, cardholders can enjoy benefits such as extensive lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance, and a low foreign currency conversion fee, making every journey more rewarding.

For more information on the EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer World Mastercard, please visit EastWest Bank KrisFlyer Mastercard and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.

About East West Banking Corporation:

East West Banking Corporation (EastWest) is a Filipino-owned universal bank. EastWest is a subsidiary of Filinvest Development Corporation (FDC), one of the country’s leading conglomerates with a diverse range of interests including real estate, banking, hospitality & tourism, infrastructure power generation, and sugar. It is not affiliated with any foreign financial institution which may bear the same name.

About KrisFlyer:

KrisFlyer has evolved from being an airline loyalty programme to an industry-leading lifestyle-centric rewards programme. Today, it has about 9.1 million members who benefit from wide-ranging accrual and redemption opportunities both on the ground and in the air.  

Members can not only earn and redeem miles on their flights on Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Star Alliance member airlines, and SIA partner carriers, but also through everyday spend with more than 1,3000 non-airline brands operating over 3,300 outlets worldwide. These include banks, hotels, travel services, restaurants, retail brands, and a wide range of experiences in Singapore and around the world.  

KrisFlyer members may also earn or redeem miles with KrisShop, the SIA Group's award-winning e-commerce arm, and enjoy a broad range of shopping, dining, and wellness experiences with partners on Kris+, the SIA Group’s rewards and lifestyle mobile app, and when they book travel activities in over 2,200 global destinations on Pelago, SIA’s travel experiences platform.

Follow KrisFlyer’s Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

A Passion for All Things Coffee

In celebration of International Coffee Month this October, Starbucks Philippines honors the artistry of coffee with initiatives designed to elevate the customer experience – crafting a personalized coffee journey that’s uniquely theirs. 

“As we celebrate International Coffee Month, we invite our customers to immerse themselves in an enhanced coffee experience—both in our stores and online,” says Noey Lopez, President of Starbucks Philippines.

Introducing Starbucks Milano Duetto: A Celebration of Milanese Coffee Heritage 

Crafted by master roasters at the esteemed Milano Roastery, Starbucks Milano Luna and Starbucks Milano Sole is a unique pairing of two contrasting cups that embody the duality of tradition and innovation. Inspired by the rich coffee culture, art, and design of Milan, these new offerings showcase the same blend interpreted through two distinct roasts: light and dark. 

Starbucks Milano Luna and Starbucks Milano Sole

 

Starbucks Milano Sole features notes of creamy vanilla custard and sweet pomegranate, while Starbucks Milano Luna celebrates the heritage of Starbucks' coffee roasting, highlighting bold notes of dark chocolate truffle and roasted black walnut. 

Starbucks Reserve: A premium coffee experience

Starbucks Reserve embodies the brand’s dedication to exceptional coffee. Each small-batch coffee from around the world is roasted with distinct care, transformed into an art form through innovative brewing techniques. 

Coffee pairing with Media and Bloggers at Starbucks Reserve, Cebu City

In the Philippines, 19 Starbucks Reserve stores offer exclusive beverages, such as Shakerato Bianco, Cold Brew Malt, and Classic Affogato, which reimagine classic coffee traditions. Starbucks Reserve features unique store designs that reflect local communities, making each visit a distinct coffee experience.

2024 Regional Barista Championship and Coffee LIVE

 

From L-R: Kent Dela Cruz, 2024 Starbucks Philippines Barista Champion, Jamie Silva, senior manager of Marketing, DCE & Loyalty, Starbucks Philippines, Adrian Santos, 2023 Starbucks Philippines Latte Art Champion

Kent Dela Cruz, 2024 Starbucks Philippines Barista Champion

Now in its 8th year, the Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championships has been a platform for showcasing the unwavering passion and expertise in coffee of partners (baristas). The 2022 event, held in Hong Kong last June, drew 14 top contenders from across the region. This annual competition not only celebrates the exceptional talent of partners but also enables them to refine their craft and deliver an unparalleled Starbucks Experience to customers worldwide.

Facebook & Instagram Live event & virtual coffee tasting in Cebu City

Starbucks will host a Facebook & Instagram Live event that will take viewers on a virtual coffee tasting in two Starbucks Reserve™ stores, Starbucks Reserve™ Ayala Malls Central Bloc Cebu today, and Starbucks Reserve™ Arya Residences in Bonifacio Global City on October 10. The event features a coffee tasting with Kent Dela Cruz, Starbucks Philippines’ 2024 Regional Barista Championship Representative, and stunning latte art demonstrations by Adrian Santos, Starbucks Philippines’ 2023 Latte Art Champion.

“By harnessing the power of coffee, we aim to bring people together and spark meaningful connections over every cup, elevating the coffee experience for all.”

For more information on Starbucks Philippines’ initiatives, visit starbucks.ph/stories and follow Starbucks Philippines on their social media pages: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok.

In a testament to its commitment to vibrant communities, Priland Development Corporation proudly marks a significant milestone with the topping-off ceremony of Paseo Grove Tower 2. This event symbolizes the nearing completion of the second residential tower within the flagship mixed-use development.

Paseo Grove Tower 2, a 17-story masterpiece, elevates the standard of living with its luxurious residential units.

Paseo Grove offers a model of convenient living. Nestled on a 1-hectare area along Humay-Humay Road, it boasts a prime location close to key establishments, such as schools, a public market, hospitals, and lifestyle hubs. This strategic positioning grants residents effortless access to all the necessities for a well-rounded lifestyle.

Paseo Grove is envisioned as a six-tower complex, catering to diverse lifestyles. Tower 2, recently capped at 17 floors, presents a sanctuary of residential units. The forthcoming towers will offer a dynamic array of residential spaces, small office/home office (SOHO) units, commercial zones, and leasable areas.

Future residents can choose from studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom residential units ranging from 21 to 62 square meters, ensuring a blend of comfort and functionality.

In addition to its prime location, Paseo Grove offers a vibrant and secure environment. Residents can relax at two swimming pools with a pavilion, engage in fitness activities at the gym, or utilize the daycare center and multipurpose room. On top of that, serene parks and gardens provide a peaceful retreat, while leasable spaces within the development ensure convenient access to daily essentials.

Priland places the well-being of its residents at the forefront. Each unit is equipped with safety and security features, including provisions for air-conditioning units, telephone lines, cable TV connections, modern appliances like induction stoves and range hoods, and a comprehensive fire detection system. Moreover, CCTV cameras are strategically positioned throughout common areas such as lobbies and amenities for added security.

(L-R) Arch. Mark Anthony Inario, Planning and Design Manager, Priland Development Corporation; Engr. Roy Vincent Lumayag, VP for Technical, Priland Development Corporation; Ramon Carlo Yap, President, Priland Development Corporation; Engr. Eduardo Bagcat, COO, Devlarn Ventures and Development Corporation; Engr. Renan B. Bantaculo, Project In Charge for Paseo Grove, Priland Development Corporation

“Priland Development Corporation has been dedicated to exceptional service for our stakeholders for over a decade. The topping-off ceremony of Paseo Grove Tower 2 marks another significant step in our mission. This state-of-the-art residence features a prime location, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled convenience. We can’t wait for our residents to experience the lifestyle they deserve,” said Ramon Carlo Yap, President of Priland Development Corporation.

Paseo Grove's commitment to excellence has earned recognition from the prestigious PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards. The development was recently awarded Best Affordable Condo Development in Metro Cebu and received a commendation for Best Lifestyle Development.

Priland Development Corporation is more than a developer; it creates an infrastructure that connects people to what matters most.

For more information about Paseo Grove, contact Priland Development Corporation at (032) 517 9645 or (+63) 977 304 4083. You can also visit the official Priland Facebook page (@PrilandOfficial) or explore www.priland.com.ph. 

The pioneer batch of youth trainees under JGF’s ACE Program and Youthworks PH is set to begin their on-the-job training in select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich in Cebu.

The ceremonial pinning of the trainees signifies the start of their on-the-job training in select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich in Cebu

The inaugural batch of youth trainees under the Jollibee Group Foundation's (JGF),  Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Program and Youthworks PH is set to begin their on-the-job training in select stores in Cebu of Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich. This program is a collaboration between the Jollibee Group, and Primary Structures Educational Foundation, Inc. – School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, Leadership, and Service (PSEFI-SKILLS), together with the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The 21 “Not in Education, Employment, or Training” (NEET) youth trainees kickstarted their work-based training at Jollibee Group stores This is the second part of their training after 10 weeks of classroom training that Jollibee Group funded, including the trainees’ allowances and accommodation. Apart from that, Jollibee Group and JGF also worked with PSEFI-SKILLS in the development of the curriculum for the Quick Service Restaurant Operations (QSRO) track, which is designed to fill the gap for professionalized personnel training in the food service industry. 

The inaugural batch of youth trainees under JGF’s ACE Program and Youthworks PH with Collaborators making the Program happen.

The QSRO is one of the two tracks under the ACE Scholarship Program; the other track focuses on agriculture, which is done in partnership with technical-vocational training institutions to provide youth from low-income families the opportunity to stay in school and eventually improve their livelihoods.

The Supervised Industry Learning (SIL), an aspect of the Youthworks PH program, will run from September to December 2024. During this phase, the trainees will work alongside experienced store managers and crew members within Jollibee Group stores and will undertake a range of tasks including customer service, food handling, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, and other operational procedures. 

Launched in 2018, YouthWorks PH is a private sector initiative to increase access to quality training and employment opportunities for unemployed and out-of-school Filipino youth. 

During the kick-off event last September 23, at Jollibee Parkmall in Mandaue City, Ruth Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer for Jollibee Group Philippines emphasized the importance of SIL for the trainees.

Jollibee Group Chief of Human Resources Officer Ruth Angeles

“We are excited to welcome our trainees into the next phase of their program, where they will gain hands-on experience as skilled service crew. This part is crucial because it puts them in real-world situations and gives them the practical skills they need to handle the challenges of their job,” said Jollibee Group Chief of Human Resources Officer Ruth Angeles.

Investing in the future

As one of JGF’s core commitments in uplifting underprivileged youth, JGF President Gisela Tiongson underscored the value of investing in the future of the youth and creating pathways for their success.

Jollibee Group Foundation's (JGF) President, Gisela Tiongson

"This initiative reflects our commitment to drive social change and open up more opportunities to help the next generation succeed and reach their dreams,” said Tiongson. “At Jollibee Group and JGF, we believe that by investing in youth education, we can build a more inclusive and resilient society where more people have a chance at a better life.”

YouthWorks PH program trainee and Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Program Scholar, Jessa Marie Jumao-as

Jessa Marie Jumao-as, one of the trainees of the YouthWorks PH program, said the workforce development training program has been a “transformative gift” for her. Prior to participating in the program, she used to be part of a cleaning service group, which made her realize that she is happy with work that deals with more people.

“I am very grateful to Jollibee Group and PSEFI-SKILLS for giving me the opportunity to become one of the ACE scholars and trainees of the YouthWorks PH program of PBED and USAID. I am grateful to them because they taught me new skills to be able to work in the food and beverage sector, and to have a better future. This has been a transformative experience,” said Jumao-as.

Youth unemployment is at 11.2%, despite the high number of vacancies in different industries.

The inaugural batch of youth trainees under JGF’s ACE Program and Youthworks PH is set to begin their on-the-job training in select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich in Cebu.

“We are elated to see the pilot batch of 21 out-of-school youth in Cebu City jumpstart this opportunity. This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we break down silos and work together. When government, businesses, educators, and communities join forces, we can empower young people, unlock their potential, and build a brighter future for all," said Executive Director of PBED Justine Raagas. 

To continue improving the skills and opening more opportunities for more NEET youth trainees, Jollibee Group and JGF, together with PSEFI-SKILLS, PBEd and USAID, will continue to expand the ACE Scholarship and YouthWorks PH programs by bringing it closer to more trainees in other parts of the country.

Shang Properties, Inc. a renowned luxury developer has made its first foray into Cebu with the launch of Shang Bauhinia Residences, marking their inaugural project outside of Metro Manila.

Shang Bauhinia Residences artist rendering from Golf Course angle

This residential development is set to bring the company’s signature brand of luxury living to the city, setting the standard for elevated residential experiences in the region and creating a legacy for generations to come.

Situated along the tree-lined neighborhood of Bauhinia Drive, just minutes away from Cebu I.T. Park, Shang Bauhinia Residences offers unparalleled convenience and exclusivity. It is set to house Cebu's most exquisite condominium residences, providing residents with a balance of serenity and convenience, alongside panoramic views of the city and world-class amenities.

Transforming Cebu's skyline with its iconic, record-breaking architecture, Shang Bauhinia Residences sets a new benchmark for luxury living, blending timeless craftsmanship with unmatched exclusivity.

Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director at Shang Properties

“We are excited to make our mark in Cebu," said Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director at Shang Properties. “Cebu is not new to us; our sister company Shangri-La Hotels and Resort built the first Shangri-La Resort in Mactan, and it has offered unparalleled luxury vacation experiences to Cebuanos for decades. We look forward to introducing our distinguished brand of redefined luxury living to this dynamic city.”

“Cebuanos appreciate quality and elegance. We are dedicated to delivering an elevated living experience that aligns with the tastes and preferences of the Cebuano community,” he added.

Shang Bauhinia Residences is designed in collaboration with internationally renowned firms P&T Group, CASAS + Architects Inc., and FM Architettura, combining luxury and functionality, offering residents the personalized experience Shang Properties is known for.

It also proudly incorporates local artistry into the design, celebrating Cebuano craftsmanship through traditional materials and artistic elements that reflect Cebu’s rich cultural heritage.

Shang Properties Inc. Top Execs (L-R): Rose Morales, Senior Director for Group Sales; Jayme Uy, Director for Marketing; Che Diaz, Executive Vice President - Commercial and Wolfgang Krueger, Executive Director.

“We’ve thoughtfully curated Shang Bauhinia Residences to incorporate local elements that resonate with Cebuanos, ensuring they will feel truly at home. Our goal is to create a space that is not only luxurious but also deeply connected to its surroundings,” said Ma. Rochelle S. Diaz, Executive Vice President – Commercial at Shang Properties, Inc.

Construction of the 52-storey condominium is expected to be completed by the 2nd half of 2031.

A New Standard in Luxury

Shang Bauhinia Residences offers a wide range of residential options, from the intimate luxuries of its studio and one-bedroom units to the elevated experiences of its two- and three-bedroom residences.

It also offers exclusive amenity spaces, providing residents with private social and wellness offerings, setting a new benchmark for luxury living in the city.

The property features an expansive podium level with a 3,800 sqm area filled with amenities, including a lush outdoor resort pool, gardenscapes, and a suite of world-class wellness and fitness facilities, as well as flexible co-working spaces.

Residents can also enjoy private entertainment rooms and dining spaces, along with the expansive ballroom for parties and special events.

The Signature Units at Shang Bauhinia Residences include less than a hundred spacious and meticulously designed homes that provide added privacy and elevated experiences.

On top of Shang Bauhinia Residences amenities, residents on these upper floors enjoy the convenience of a private lift and exclusive access to the Signature Lounge, which features a stunning sky pool, a modern gym, a sauna, and private entertainment venues, providing a sense of comfort and a private oasis.

Shang Properties Inc. Top Execs (L-R): Rose Morales, Senior Director for Group Sales; Jayme Uy, Director for Marketing; Che Diaz, Executive Vice President - Commercial with Cebuana host Karla Henry.

A Location Like No Other

Shang Bauhinia Residences offers stunning panoramic views of Cebu, from the lush green fields of the nearby Cebu Country Club and the striking city skyline to serene sea views and surrounding mountains.

With its prime location, the property provides easy access to educational institutions, medical facilities, sports centers, and retail hubs. It is also just minutes away from key business districts, including Cebu I.T. Park and Cebu Business Park, offering residents the perfect blend of tranquility and city convenience.

Experience luxury in full bloom with Shang Properties Inc.’s, Shang Bauhinia Residences. For more information, visit www.shangbauhiniaresidences.com and like and follow @shangbauhiniaresidences on Facebook and Instagram.