Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Ginto Privilege Club Opens One-Off GPC Packs Starting at ₱49; First Draw Set for October 1

 


 MANILA, Philippines — Ginto Privilege Club (GPC) has officially opened its one-off GPC Packs, starting at ₱49, giving eligible Philippine residents aged 18 and above access to listed GPC Partner Deals and the stated GPC Draw entries included with their selected Pack.

GPC users choose a Pack only when it suits them. There is no subscription, automatic renewal, referral requirement or downline.

Three GPC Packs are now available:

Try Pack — ₱49: 1 GPC Draw entry and 7 days’ access to listed GPC Partner Deals.

Sulit Pack — ₱149: 6 GPC Draw entries, 14 days’ access to listed GPC Partner Deals and eligibility for applicable bonus rewards.

Ginto Pack — ₱349: 20 GPC Draw entries, 30 days’ access to listed GPC Partner Deals and eligibility for applicable bonus rewards.

Before choosing a Pack, users can review the price, period of Partner Deal access, stated GPC Draw entries, current Partner Deals and their terms, draw cut-off and official mechanics on the GPC website.

The first GPC Draw under the new one-off Pack format will be the ₱10,000 Ginhawa Support Draw, to be held live on October 1, 2026 at 8:00 PM Philippine time.

The draw will select one provisional main winner for ₱10,000 in Ginhawa Support and five provisional bonus winners for ₱500 GCash eGift each.

After eligibility and verification requirements are completed, the main winner may choose from practical-support options including:

  • Groceries through participating grocery merchants
  • Everyday essentials through participating pharmacy merchants
  • ₱10,000 GCash for bills support

Prize options, participating merchants and fulfilment are subject to the official draw mechanics and applicable terms.

“Gusto naming malinaw muna bago mag-decide ang isang tao,” said Kristine Henderson, CEO and Co-Founder of Ginto Privilege Club. “Makikita nila ang presyo ng Pack, Partner Deals, draw entries, cut-off at mechanics bago sila pumili. Walang subscription at walang kailangang i-refer. They can simply choose a Pack if it works for them.”

Winners selected during the live draw remain provisional until the applicable eligibility and verification requirements have been completed. GPC publicly confirms winners only after verification and does not charge winners any fee to claim a verified prize.

The company also maintains a public Winner Proof archive containing records of confirmed prize deliveries from previous GPC promotions. Confirmed winners and available prize fulfilment records from the new GPC Draws will also be published following verification and prize delivery.

Current GPC Pack information, the Ginhawa Support Draw, cut-off and official mechanics are available at:

https://gintoprivilegeclub.com/current-draw/

Previous winner records are available at:

https://gintoprivilegeclub.com/winners-proof/

Open to eligible Philippine residents aged 18 and above. Terms and official draw mechanics apply. Selected participants are subject to eligibility and verification.

About Ginto Privilege Club
Founded in September 2025, Ginto Privilege Club (GPC) is a Philippines-based consumer platform offering one-off GPC Packs, access to listed GPC Partner Deals and scheduled GPC Draws. GPC is designed around clear Pack information, published draw mechanics, winner verification and public Winner Proof for confirmed prize deliveries. GPC is not a membership, subscription, referral program, MLM or income opportunity.

Carziqo Launches ER-BX Autonomous Ride-Hailing Operations in San Francisco



The expansion brings the company’s ER-BX series to one of the United States’ most dynamic urban mobility markets, supported by continuous operations from Monday through Sunday.

SAN FRANCISCO — Autonomous mobility technology company Carziqo has launched operations of its ER-BX autonomous ride-hailing series in San Francisco, expanding the company’s presence in the United States and bringing its mobility services to a city known for its complex streets, diverse neighborhoods, and rapidly evolving transportation needs.

The introduction of the ER-BX series marks another step in Carziqo’s broader effort to develop a more connected and responsive autonomous ride-hailing network across major American cities.

San Francisco presents a distinctive operating environment for autonomous mobility. Its steep hills, dense urban districts, high-volume commercial areas, residential communities, and changing traffic conditions require vehicles and mobility platforms to respond to a wide range of real-world transportation scenarios.

Carziqo said the ER-BX series will be deployed across designated service areas and routes based on local mobility demand, operational conditions, trip distance, and vehicle availability.

Rather than assigning every vehicle to the same type of route, the company’s platform is designed to coordinate vehicles across different operating zones. This allows the fleet to respond more effectively to variations in passenger demand while helping reduce unnecessary vehicle downtime and improve overall fleet utilization.

Continuous Operations Throughout the Week

A central feature of the San Francisco rollout is its continuous operating schedule.

24/7 Operations, Monday to Sunday.

Under this operating model, ER-BX vehicles may be assigned to service throughout the day and night, subject to route availability, local operating conditions, vehicle status, and platform scheduling.

The round-the-clock schedule is intended to support the varied travel patterns found across San Francisco. Transportation demand in the city does not follow a single timetable. Early-morning commuters, daytime workers, airport travelers, evening passengers, hospitality employees, and residents returning home after regular transit hours may all require mobility services at different times.

By maintaining operations throughout the week, Carziqo aims to build a service structure capable of responding to these changing patterns instead of limiting fleet activity to conventional business hours.

The company said continuous operations do not mean that every vehicle will remain on the road without interruption. Each vehicle will be assigned individual maintenance periods according to mileage, technical condition, service requirements, and operational history.

Inspections, cleaning, preventive maintenance, system diagnostics, and software checks will be coordinated on a vehicle-by-vehicle basis. This approach allows vehicles requiring attention to be temporarily removed from service while other qualified vehicles continue operating within the network.

The model replaces the need for a single fleet-wide maintenance shutdown and is intended to balance service continuity with operational safety and vehicle readiness.

Responding to San Francisco’s Mobility Patterns

San Francisco’s transportation environment is shaped by a combination of local commuting, tourism, technology-sector activity, commercial movement, and connections to the wider Bay Area.

Demand can shift considerably between neighborhoods and at different hours of the day. Downtown business districts may experience heavier weekday activity, while entertainment, waterfront, residential, and visitor-oriented areas can generate demand during evenings and weekends.

Carziqo’s platform is expected to use operational data and fleet coordination tools to support vehicle allocation across these changing conditions. Vehicles may be reassigned according to factors such as service demand, route distance, traffic conditions, vehicle availability, and scheduled maintenance.

The company views this type of coordinated allocation as an important part of autonomous fleet operations. While the vehicle itself remains central to the service, the effectiveness of a ride-hailing network also depends on how efficiently vehicles are distributed, monitored, maintained, and returned to operation.

The ER-BX series has been developed for use within this broader operating system, combining vehicle deployment with digital fleet coordination and route-based service planning.

A Broader Autonomous Mobility Strategy

The San Francisco launch also reflects the growing competition among mobility companies seeking to establish autonomous transportation services in major urban markets.

Cities such as San Francisco are increasingly viewed as important testing grounds for the commercial development of autonomous ride-hailing. However, operating in these markets involves more than introducing vehicles. Companies must also manage fleet availability, technical monitoring, maintenance scheduling, local service demand, and the practical realities of operating continuously in complex city environments.

Carziqo’s strategy focuses on building an integrated operating network in which vehicles, service zones, maintenance processes, and platform systems function as connected parts of the same mobility infrastructure.

The company said its expansion is being carried out progressively, with operating arrangements adjusted according to the characteristics of each city. This city-specific approach allows fleet deployment and route planning to reflect local transportation patterns instead of applying a single model to every market.

In San Francisco, the company expects the ER-BX series to contribute to a more flexible mobility network capable of serving different routes, distances, and periods of demand.

Building for Long-Term Operations

For autonomous ride-hailing providers, the long-term challenge is not limited to placing vehicles on public roads. Sustainable operations also require reliable digital infrastructure, systematic vehicle maintenance, efficient fleet deployment, and the ability to adapt when demand changes.

Carziqo said its San Francisco operations will be monitored through its fleet management and service coordination systems. Operational information will be used to review vehicle utilization, route performance, technical status, and service requirements.

These insights may help the company refine vehicle distribution and identify areas where additional capacity or different operating arrangements are needed.

The company is also expected to continue evaluating the performance of the ER-BX series as the San Francisco service develops. Future adjustments may include changes to designated routes, operating zones, fleet allocation, and maintenance schedules based on actual service conditions.

The rollout does not signal the completion of Carziqo’s work in the city. Instead, it represents the beginning of an ongoing operational phase in which the company will assess how its vehicles and platform respond to San Francisco’s transportation environment.

As autonomous mobility moves from limited demonstrations toward longer-term commercial operations, the ability to maintain dependable service across different hours and travel conditions will become an increasingly important measure of performance.

With the launch of the ER-BX series and the adoption of continuous Monday-to-Sunday operations, Carziqo is positioning San Francisco as another important part of its expanding autonomous ride-hailing network.

For passengers and the broader mobility market, the development offers another example of how autonomous transportation companies are moving beyond vehicle technology alone and focusing more closely on the systems required to support reliable, city-scale operations.

 


Filipina Physician-Scientist Named National Finalist for 2026 ASEAN–U.S. Science Prize for Women


Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales, Founder of 101 Health Research, has been named the Philippine National Finalist in the Mid-Career category of the 2026 UL Research Institutes ASEAN–U.S. Science Prize for Women. Her work uses artificial intelligence and health data science to support inclusive, resilient healthcare and evidence-based decision-making in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

MANILA, Philippines — Dr. Venus Oliva Cloma-Rosales, physician, public health scientist, and Founder and Managing Director of 101 Health Research, has been selected as the Philippine National Finalist in the Mid-Career category of the 2026 UL Research Institutes–ASEAN–U.S. Science Prize for Women.

This year’s theme, “AI for Advancing Inclusive and Resilient Healthcare in ASEAN,” recognizes women scientists harnessing artificial intelligence to address healthcare challenges across Southeast Asia.

For more than a decade, Cloma-Rosales has worked across clinical research, public health, health systems, and health data science. Her work includes AI applications for HERDIN, the Philippines’ national health research database; the midterm evaluation of the Philippine National Unified Health Research Agenda; and a global study on digital disruption and climate stress in the nursing workforce, including analysis of more than 14,000 online job postings.

“Health and research data are often fragmented across institutions, databases, and systems,” Cloma-Rosales said. “AI can help us connect and learn from these sources at scale, turning fragmented data into evidence for better decisions.”

She sees this as part of a broader goal of building learning health systems that continuously use research, data, and real-world experience to improve care.

“The goal is not simply to use more AI, but to build health systems that keep learning—combining technology with scientific rigor, local knowledge, and human judgment. This is especially important at a time of major health policy changes, digital transformations, and as we aim for climate resilience.”

Cloma-Rosales is a physician and public health scientist who trained in Pediatrics and holds a Master of Public Health from the National University of Singapore and a Master in Entrepreneurship from the Asian Institute of Management. She was selected as an Eisenhower Fellow in 2025.

The Philippines is also represented in the Senior Scientist category by Prof. Julie Ann A. Salido of Aklan State University, a computer scientist whose research includes deep learning applications for skin lesion analysis and melanoma detection.

National Finalists will undergo regional judging, with two Regional Finalists from each category advancing to the final pitch competition.

Watch Dr. Cloma-Rosales’ National Finalist video pitch:

About 101 Health Research

Founded in the Philippines in 2014, 101 Health Research supports healthcare institutions, government agencies, professional societies, and other partners in generating and translating evidence. Its work spans clinical research, biostatistics, health data science and real-world evidence, evidence synthesis, scientific communication, and research capacity development.

Monday, September 21, 2026

‘Dragon King’ scores ₱122.4-M win in Casino Plus, says historic jackpot 'felt like a dream'

Casino Plus, the country’s leading PAGCOR-licensed digital entertainment platform, has formally awarded ₱122,409,603.00 to its latest grand winner, marking the turnover of the biggest jackpot in Philippine slot machine history.

Rooted in Casino Plus’ Player-First Philosophy, the platform fully honored the verified winner's explicit request for complete identity protection. The winner attended the ceremonial handover masked and strictly identity-protected. Choosing to be identified publicly as "Dragon King," the winner considered the historic milestone as "God's plan" for him.

The jackpot winner, who described the historic milestone as "God's plan" for him, revealed what he would do with some of his winnings continue his advocacy of helping other people and his family.

"Tutulong tayo sa mga kababayan natin. [Ang] family members and friends ko, kasama sila sa lahat ng plans. It’s all God’s plan talaga. Hindi natin alam kung mananalo tayo or matatalo. Actually it is not the first time that I won in Casino Plus. The place to be is at Casino Plus," the winner said.

He also described his win as something that "felt like a dream," taking note that the gaming platform ensured him his jackpot prize would be withdrawn fast and safe under PAGCOR regulations.

"Hindi ako makapaniwala. Parang akala ko nananaginip lang, akala ko lasing lang ako. Pero noong may tumawag sa’kin, totoo nga," the winner candidly shared.

During the interview, Dragon King said he exclusively plays on Casino Plus. His gaming journey began on the platform's popular Color Game which holds the record for the biggest single digital gaming payout to date in Philippine history at ₱303.5 millionbefore he eventually shifted his preference to live slots.

With conviction he has a message to his fellow players: "Huwag maging gahaman! If nanalo ka na, know when to stop.Ang panalo naman is not all the time eh. Kailangan mo lang din ng timing," the jackpot winner said. 

"If they want to play, kailangan maging responsible lang sila. Kailangan mag-allot lang din sila ng amount para hanggang dun lang," he added.

While the ₱122.4 million hit headlines the industry, it reinforces a broader pattern: Casino Plus has established a track record as the premier platform where historic, record-breaking payouts consistently happen. This monumental slot machine turnover builds on an unprecedented series of jackpot milestones for the platform—including the historic ₱303.5 million Color Game jackpot in August 2024, a massive ₱271.4 million turnover in April, and the processing of more than ₱1 billion in validated jackpot payouts during the second quarter of 2026. Together, these historic figures set new industry benchmarks for player liquidity, operational scale, and regulatory transparency.

"Mr. Dragon's story of strength, loyalty, faith, and perseverance reflects what Casino Plus stands for," said Evan Spytma, Chief Executive Officer of Casino Plus. "The ₱122.4 million  payout is not an isolated event; it represents our commitment to providing a world-class platform where players experience legitimate, life-changing moments under full PAGCOR oversight."

Behind every record payout lies Casino Plus unwavering Player-First Philosophy. Aside from guaranteeing fast and transparent financial payouts through ironclad surety mechanisms and reserve backing, Casino Plus treats Identity Protection & Personal Safety as a core pillar of player protection. Operating under strict PAGCOR regulatory guidelines, the platform respects every winner's right to anonymity, ensuring that multi-millionaires can celebrate their life-changing moments without compromising their long-term personal and family security.

RESPONSIBLE GAMING ADVISORY

In accordance with PAGCOR’s Responsible Gaming Code of Practice, Casino Plus wishes to remind all players of the following:

Gaming is for entertainment purposes only. It should not be considered a source of income or a means of financial relief. Players are encouraged to play responsibly and within their means.

Winning is never guaranteed. All gaming outcomes are determined by chance. Past results, including jackpot wins, do not influence or predict future outcomes.

About IGO Digital High Technology, Inc.

Casino Plus is a PAGCOR-licensed online casino platform in the Philippines, providing secure, regulated, and responsible online gaming experiences for Filipino players. The company is committed to providing a secure, fair, and engaging digital entertainment experience, guided by the principles of responsible gaming and player protection. With its continuous expansion, Casino Plus is now regarded as one of the country’s leading online casino platforms, combining entertainment excellence with meaningful corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Trans-Asiatic Trading Expands Distribution of Gerflor Streamo Marine Vinyl Flooring to Key Philippine Shipyards


 Trans-Asiatic Trading is extending the reach of its Wheelmark-approved Gerflor Streamo marine vinyl flooring range into the Philippine shipbuilding sector, strengthening its position as a trusted regional supplier of IMO-compliant interior systems. The move brings Streamo's Karavel, Mariner, and Steamer product lines directly to Philippine shipyards constructing and refitting passenger and offshore vessels, giving local builders faster, more direct access to certified flooring backed by Trans-Asiatic's decades of marine and industrial equipment sourcing experience.

The expansion responds to a straightforward market reality: as Philippine shipyards take on more inter-island ferry and offshore accommodation projects, demand for flooring that meets IMO fire test protocols and Wheelmark certification has grown alongside it. Trans-Asiatic's existing relationships with major shipowners, shipbuilders, and industrial companies across the region position it to support that demand with a supply chain already built for compliance-first procurement, meaning shipyards no longer have to navigate certification requirements and international sourcing on their own.

At the core of the offering is the Streamo range itself: high-performance homogeneous flooring engineered for heavy-traffic corridors and crew areas, paired with luxury vinyl plank options for cabins and passenger spaces where design matters as much as durability. By distributing this range directly to Philippine shipyards, Trans-Asiatic is positioning itself not just as a supplier but as a technical partner, helping engineering and design teams specify the right product for each deck, from high-traffic zones to accommodation interiors, without compromising on IMO compliance.

For Philippine shipbuilders and vessel operators, the expanded distribution means shorter lead times, local support, and direct access to one of the marine industry's most recognised flooring brands. Trans-Asiatic Trading invites shipyards and operators across the Philippines to get in touch to discuss Streamo product specifications, availability, and how the expanded distribution network can support upcoming newbuild and refit projects.

Reach out now!

Call: +65 62825376 | +65 62802679

Email: trasia@singnet.com.sg

Find them on Keepital at Trans-Asiatic Trading Pte Ltd

About Trans-Asiatic Trading Pte Ltd

Trans-Asiatic is an importer and exporter of Industrial and Marine Equipment, we also act as Commission Agents for many overseas companies. We represent and distribute several renowned brands in these industries and offer professional users a wide range of equipment/services within the accommodation, mechanical and electrical segments. Our list of clients includes major ship-owners, shipbuilders, oil rig builders, shipyard and industrial companies.

Keepital Showcases Innovation and Community Spirit at PhilMedical 2026

 

preview Keepital made a strong impact at PhilMedical 2026, connecting with industry leaders, showcasing the KeepCard, and engaging in community activities while gearing up for PMAX 2026.

Keepital proudly took part in PhilMedical 2026, one of the Philippines’ leading medical and healthcare trade shows, where it connected with a wide range of professionals, innovators, and industry stakeholders. The event provided a dynamic platform for Keepital to showcase its solutions, engage with diverse audiences, and reinforce its commitment to supporting businesses in the healthcare sector.

A standout highlight of the exhibition was the KeepCard, which quickly became a crowd favorite. Attendees were eager to learn more about its features, with many expressing excitement at discovering a tool designed to simplify networking and enhance visibility. The strong interest underscored Keepital’s role in providing practical, innovative solutions that resonate with both SMEs and larger enterprises.

Beyond the exhibition floor, Keepital Philippines actively participated in the show’s activities, including the blood drive. This involvement reflected the company’s dedication not only to business growth but also to community engagement and social responsibility. Keepital encourages others to take part in similar initiatives, whether at future events or at their own convenience, as a way to contribute meaningfully to collective well-being.

With PhilMedical 2026 successfully concluded, Keepital is already preparing for its next major participation at PMAX 2026, another flagship event organized by Fireworks Exhibitions and Conferences Philippines. This upcoming appearance highlights Keepital’s continued drive to expand its presence, foster collaboration, and empower industries across Southeast Asia.

By combining innovation, visibility, and community spirit, Keepital’s presence at PhilMedical 2026 reaffirmed its position as a trusted partner for businesses navigating today’s evolving marketplace.

Ready to Get Noticed?

Join the many ASEAN SMEs already taking advantage of this digital shift. Be discovered when buyers search. Turn visibility into real business.

Reach out today: ask@keepital.com | sales.ph@keepital.com | Schedule a meeting

Visit: www.keepital.com | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok 

Join our community: B2B Business Networking

About KEEP Pte Ltd.
Keepital was established in 2013 and has now grown into Southeast Asia’s Leading Industrial B2B marketplace that facilitates connections between suppliers and buyers worldwide through our online platform. They stand out with their highly competitive pricing and offer a comprehensive range of services beyond just product listings. Their advertising options are designed for affordability and simplicity, featuring a one-time payment and low renewal fees for product and service suppliers on our online portal.

World Literacy Day 2026: ASSIST and LGUs Redefine Literacy Through Life-Skills Board Games

  

In observance of International Literacy Day, Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST) is highlighting the urgent need to redefine literacy for the modern era: moving beyond traditional reading and writing toward a functional, active "operating system" for daily life.

While global benchmarks historically measure basic reading comprehension, today's economic, environmental, and social challenges demand a broader framework. Navigating 21st-century realities requires functional, financial, vocational, and climate literacy—equipping individuals with the competencies needed to translate critical information into informed, real-world decisions.

ASSIST bridges this gap by transforming passive instruction into hands-on, gamified learning tools that make life-skills education collaborative, engaging, and directly applicable across all age groups.

"As the world evolves, literacy shifts from being just a subject into an operating system for life," said Rhyanna Ilagan, Senior Associate for Product Development, Strategy & Innovation at ASSIST. "Being able to read a text doesn't automatically mean someone knows how to navigate these real-world skills. The purpose of our games is to create a safe space where players can learn, practice, and make mistakes—preparing them to make critical decisions through behavioral change long before a real crisis happens."

Gamified Learning Suite Building Real-World Competencies

To advance functional literacy across diverse communities, ASSIST has developed an interactive suite of scenario-based toolkits:

Master of Disaster (MOD): A gamified disaster risk reduction board game teaching emergency preparedness, hazard signals, and community-wide safety coordination.

Money Matters: Portable flashcard sets designed to demystify budgeting, debt management, investments, taxes, and fraud prevention.

Success360: A career preparedness toolkit offering structured guidance on job interviews, workplace scenarios, and professional growth.

i2Can (Inspire & Ignite): An educational board game empowering young learners (ages 7+) across environmental sustainability, health, safety, and ethics.

Through strategic cross-sector partnerships, ASSIST integrates these tools directly into local government units (LGUs), public school systems, non-governmental organizations, and corporate risk management programs. In 2025 alone, ASSIST distributed over 1,000 units of Master of Disaster, driving measurable engagement across classrooms, local communities, and corporate settings.

"When we bring games like Master of Disaster into communities and schools, we promote literacy by encouraging participants to read scenario cards out loud and speak in front of the group," explained Bea Leana Hernandez, Partnerships Associate at ASSIST. "Instead of passive classroom listening, this gamified approach forces face-to-face social learning through real-time group debate and decision-making. It transforms players into active, informed social citizens who are equipped to protect their families and lead disaster response in their own communities."

Unlocking Opportunities for LGUs and Corporate CSR Partnerships

To scale the reach of these tools on International Literacy Day and beyond, ASSIST is opening avenues for Local Government Units (LGUs) and corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arms to adopt and sponsor these gamified learning suites.

"Government agencies like the DILG see immense value in MOD, utilizing it as an anchor educational tool for local disaster resilience. On the corporate side, companies integrate MOD into their Business Continuity Week training. They procure units to equip their workforce with practical safety skills and sponsor donations to local public schools, where their employees volunteer as facilitators," added Hernandez. "It bridges internal risk management with impactful community development."

Aligning with International Literacy Day's emphasis on functional literacy, ASSIST is also actively expanding the global footprint of its gamified toolkits. Adapted versions of Master of Disaster are currently deployed in India for regional cyclone preparedness, with Taglish, Bisaya, and Vietnamese editions releasing soon to eliminate language barriers and expand educational access.

To read the full transcript, explore partnership opportunities, or learn more about ASSIST's social impact initiatives, visit assistasia.org.

About Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST)

ASSIST (Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation) is a self-sustaining pan-Asian NGO working at the intersection of social impact and sustainable transformation. True to its role as a Partner for Progress, ASSIST collaborates with corporate and institutional funders to deliver co-created initiatives as well as award-winning flagship programs that convert social investments into lasting local capacity. Explore our work and partner with us: assistasia.org


RYC Wellness Collaborates with Kaya Kusina to Celebrate the Healing Power of Philippine Kiwot Honey

  

RYC Wellness is collaborating with Val Anthony Alvero and Jessica Hernandez of Kaya Kusina who was recently recognized by Tatler Asia

RYC Wellness is proud to announce its collaboration with Val Anthony Alvero and Jessica Hernandez, the visionary founders of Kaya Kusina, whose groundbreaking work with Philippine stingless bee honey—known as Kiwot Honey—has recently been recognized by Tatler Asia. Their feature highlights not only an extraordinary Filipino ingredient but also a shared mission of promoting wellness, sustainability, and the richness of local heritage.

At RYC Wellness, healing has always extended beyond fitness and relaxation. It is about nourishing the body with nature's finest gifts while creating meaningful experiences that connect people to health, culture, and community. This philosophy makes Kaya Kusina a natural partner.

Unlike conventional honey, Kiwot Honey comes from the native Philippine stingless bee (Tetragonula biroi). The honey is celebrated for its naturally sweet-and-tangy flavor, rich complexity, and abundance of naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria. Because these bees forage from a diverse range of native Philippine plants, every harvest carries a unique flavor profile that reflects the country's incredible biodiversity.

Through this collaboration, RYC Wellness will introduce guests to the remarkable story behind Kiwot Honey—an ingredient that represents more than exceptional taste. It supports local farmers and beekeepers, encourages biodiversity, promotes sustainable agriculture, and helps preserve an important part of the Philippines' natural ecosystem.

The partnership also reflects the growing movement toward mindful dining and wellness. By incorporating locally sourced, purpose-driven ingredients into the RYC Wellness experience, guests are invited to discover how food can nourish not only the body but also the environment and the communities that produce it.

The recognition of Kaya Kusina by Tatler Asia shines a spotlight on Filipino innovation and the untapped potential of indigenous ingredients. RYC Wellness is honored to work alongside Val Alvero and Jessica Hernandez in sharing this remarkable product with a wider audience while championing wellness through education, sustainability, and authentic Filipino craftsmanship.

As RYC Wellness continues to expand its offerings, this collaboration marks another step in its commitment to bringing together passionate innovators who believe that healing begins with nature. Together with Kaya Kusina, RYC Wellness invites everyone to experience the unique taste, story, and wellness benefits of Philippine Kiwot Honey—one of the country's most extraordinary natural treasures.


Sunday, September 20, 2026

From Surigao to Gold Coast: Filipino Entrepreneur Kristine Henderson Introduces a Simpler GPC for Everyday Filipinos

 

Ginto Privilege Club founder Kristine Henderson, who grew up in Surigao del Norte and is now based on Australia’s Gold Coast, introduces GPC’s one-off Pack format for everyday Filipinos. From September 21, GPC users can choose a Pack when it suits them — without subscriptions, automatic renewals, referrals or downlines. Before deciding, they can view the Pack price, listed Partner Deals, draw entries, cut-off and official mechanics. The first Ginhawa Support Draw will take place live on October 1, with selected participants verified before winners are confirmed.

Ginto Privilege Club will open its one-off Pack format on September 21, with no subscriptions, automatic renewals, referral requirements or downlines.

MANILA, Philippines - September 14, 2026 - Filipino entrepreneur Kristine Henderson will introduce a simpler direction for Ginto Privilege Club (GPC), a Philippines-focused consumer platform built around practical deals, clear information and scheduled reward draws.

Henderson, who grew up in Surigao del Norte and is now based on Australia’s Gold Coast, said the idea behind GPC comes from a familiar Filipino reality: people work hard, compare prices carefully and want to know exactly what they are getting before they spend.

“Hindi dapat kailangan mong manghula,” Henderson said. “People deserve to see the details clearly, decide in their own time, and feel that there is something practical for them too.”

On September 21, GPC will open its one-off GPC Pack format. Rather than a membership or subscription, GPC users can choose a Pack only when they want to. There is no automatic renewal, no referral requirement and no downline.

Each Pack will show its price, access period for listed GPC Partner Deals, scheduled draw entries, cut-off date and official mechanics before a user decides to buy.

The first GPC Draw in the October schedule, the Ginhawa Support Draw, will be held live on October 1, 2026. Complete Pack options, eligibility requirements and official draw mechanics will be available on the GPC website from September 21 before a user chooses a Pack.

Henderson’s professional background includes building Sanctuary Care, an Australian home-care business she founded in 2018. She said her experience supporting families shaped GPC’s focus on practical everyday value rather than complicated promises.

“GPC is being built for the person who wants things explained simply,” she said. “No pressure to invite anyone. No need to maintain a subscription. Just clear choices, published mechanics and a process people can check for themselves.”

GPC maintains a public Winner Proof archive containing records of confirmed prize deliveries from previous GPC promotions. Selected participants in future GPC Draws will be subject to verification before winners are confirmed. GPC does not charge fees to claim verified prizes.

More information about Ginto Privilege Club is available at https://gintoprivilegeclub.com/.

About Ginto Privilege Club

Founded in September 2025, Ginto Privilege Club (GPC) is a Philippines-based consumer platform offering one-off GPC Packs, access to listed GPC Partner Deals and scheduled GPC draws. GPC is designed around clear Pack information, published draw mechanics, winner verification and public Winner Proof for confirmed prize deliveries. GPC is not a membership, subscription, referral, MLM or income opportunity.

Friday, September 18, 2026

Bridging European Luxury and Southeast Asian Real Estate: Jasmine Chau Leads the Grand Finale at IFFINA+ 2026

 


Discover how Italian Atelier’s flagship panel redefined branded residences, turning European craftsmanship into tangible commercial value for Indonesia’s top developers.

As Southeast Asia’s luxury real estate and hospitality sectors enter a period of rapid transformation, branded residences and high-end mixed-use developments are reshaping the region’s property landscape.

In Greater Jakarta and beyond, developers are increasingly looking for ways to differentiate their projects while responding to a more sophisticated market of luxury homeowners, hotel guests, and international investors.

Yet translating global luxury into a successful local development presents its own set of challenges. Developers must deliver distinctive, culturally resonant spaces while managing the demanding quality standards, delicate finishes, and extended lead times often associated with international luxury design.

The ability to connect European craftsmanship with the practical realities of Southeast Asian development is therefore becoming an increasingly important competitive advantage.

This intersection of design, procurement and real estate value will take center stage at IFFINA+ 2026, where Italian Atelier, in collaboration with CJC Marketing Agency, will curate the Day 1 grand finale on Thursday, September 24, from 5:00 PM to 5:45 PM WIB at the Main Stage in Hall 3 of the Nusantara International Convention Exhibition (NICE), PIK2, Jakarta.

Organized by Nine Koeln Indonesia, IFFINA+ 2026 brings together a high-profile audience of C-suite real estate developers, hotel owners, principal architects, interior designers, and VIP international buyers.

Against this backdrop, Italian Atelier’s flagship panel will examine how European luxury design and bespoke FF&E procurement can be integrated into contemporary hospitality and branded residential projects without losing sight of local context or commercial realities.

From European Craftsmanship to a Sense of Place


One of the central questions surrounding branded residences today is how international luxury can be adapted to local markets without becoming generic.

Successful branded developments increasingly move away from simply reproducing European aesthetics. Instead, they seek to combine established international design codes with the cultural identity of their location, creating spaces that feel both globally sophisticated and distinctly local.

For Indonesia, this creates an opportunity to bring together the country’s rich craft heritage with the precision and material sophistication associated with Italian luxury design. The resulting environments can establish a stronger sense of place while giving residential and hospitality developments a more distinctive identity in an increasingly competitive market.

This approach is particularly relevant as developers seek to appeal to consumers who are exposed to global luxury standards but continue to value authenticity and cultural relevance. A branded residence cannot rely on an international name alone. Its design needs to feel considered within its geographical and cultural setting.

For Jasmine Chau of Italian Atelier, this balance sits at the heart of contemporary luxury hospitality and real estate.

“True luxury in modern hospitality is born where world-class European craftsmanship meets deep respect for local context. Our goal is to provide developers with a seamless blueprint from design vision to execution.”

Her perspective points to a broader shift in the role of luxury design. Rather than functioning solely as a visual layer added toward the end of a development, design is increasingly becoming part of the strategic process through which an asset establishes its identity and market positioning.

Where Design Meets Commercial Reality


For developers, however, the value of an international design partnership is ultimately measured not only by its aesthetic impact but also by its ability to perform within the realities of a complex project.

Cross-border procurement introduces considerations around lead times, logistics, material specifications and installation. In tropical markets such as Indonesia, engineering materials for climate durability adds another layer of complexity, particularly when projects involve delicate finishes and highly specified European FF&E.

Managing these factors effectively can have a direct impact on project timelines and overall asset performance.

This is where the relationship between design and commercial value becomes increasingly important. Premium interior design partnerships can contribute to capital appreciation and long-term asset valuation by strengthening the positioning, quality and differentiation of a property.

For major property conglomerates, the objective is therefore not simply to source exceptional furniture or finishes. It is to establish a procurement and design strategy capable of protecting the integrity of the original design vision while remaining feasible within the project's operational and commercial framework.

The conversation at IFFINA+ 2026 will explore precisely this intersection, establishing a strategic blueprint for integrating European luxury and bespoke FF&E procurement into modern hospitality and branded residential projects.

Building a Bridge Between Two Luxury Ecosystems


The discussion also reflects the growing need for stronger connections between European design suppliers and Southeast Asia’s expanding real estate market.

Italian Atelier has positioned itself within this ecosystem as a bridge between iconic European design heritage and Asia’s rapidly developing luxury hospitality and real estate landscape. Its role at IFFINA+ extends this positioning into the Indonesian market, bringing design curation and luxury furniture procurement into a conversation with the developers and professionals shaping the region’s next generation of properties.

As branded residences continue to gain momentum across Southeast Asia, these relationships are becoming increasingly significant. Developers require access to international design expertise, while European suppliers need a deeper understanding of the local development environment, project requirements and market expectations.

Creating a meaningful connection between the two sides can open the way for more sophisticated collaborations, from bespoke residential developments to luxury hospitality projects.

A Meeting Point for Indonesia’s Property Leaders


The IFFINA+ panel is expected to bring together senior representatives from Indonesia’s leading real estate and hospitality networks, with participation from major property conglomerates, architectural practices and five-star hotel ownership groups.

Beyond the stage discussion, the gathering creates an opportunity for high-value conversations between local developers and European design suppliers, potentially laying the groundwork for future luxury residential collaborations.

This executive-level exchange is particularly relevant as Indonesia continues to attract investment into high-end residential and hospitality developments.

For decision-makers, access to the right design partners can become an important component of a project's wider strategy, from initial concept and brand positioning through to procurement and execution.

Italian Atelier’s role as the exclusive content and curation partner for the Day 1 grand finale reflects this broader ambition. By bringing the conversation around luxury furniture procurement, architectural branding and real estate development into the same space, the company aims to address luxury design as part of a wider commercial ecosystem rather than as an isolated creative discipline.

Looking Beyond IFFINA+


The conversation at IFFINA+ 2026 is expected to extend beyond the event itself, with Italian Atelier continuing to expand cross-border design dialogues and support upcoming luxury residential masterplans across Southeast Asia.

Post-event executive networking dinners and exclusive media features across regional publications will further extend these conversations, creating additional opportunities for developers, designers and international suppliers to connect around future projects.

As Southeast Asia’s luxury real estate market continues to evolve, the relationship between European craftsmanship and local development expertise will become increasingly important.

The most compelling projects are likely to be those capable of combining the precision and heritage of global luxury with a genuine understanding of place, climate, culture and commercial reality.

For Italian Atelier, the ambition is clear: to help create that connection, transforming exceptional European design into enduring value for the next generation of Southeast Asian hospitality and real estate.

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