innovation – Jellybeans in the City

Frotea Rebrands to Become the Philippines’ Favorite Milktea Dessert Brand

Frotea, the much-loved milk tea brand hailing from Palawan, is not just a delightful beverage; it’s a whole experience. The brand has embarked on an exciting rebranding journey to position itself as the Philippines’ leading “Milktea Dessert Brand,” promising a taste of “Summer in Every Cup.” Since its humble beginnings in 2012, Frotea has come a long way, expanding its horizons beyond Palawan to places like Batangas, Laguna, Bataan, and South Cotabato. With 23 branches across Luzon and Visayas, Frotea is on a mission to win the hearts of Filipinos and secure its spot as the number one milktea dessert brand in the nation.

The Evolution: From Froyo + Milktea to “Summer in Every Cup”

Frotea has undergone a sweet transformation, transitioning from its original tagline of “Froyo + Milktea” with the phrase “For You and Me,” to its current captivating identity as the country’s premier ‘Milktea Dessert Brand.’ The rebranding was fueled by a dedication to innovation, aligning the brand with evolving trends, consumer preferences, and the spirit of the times. Ana Lustre-Malijan, the visionary founder and owner of Frotea, emphasized its commitment to understanding and adapting to shifting consumer tastes, engaging in surveys and extensive product testing to keep its offerings in sync with what the customers desire.

Tailoring Taste: A Menu for Every Filipino Palate

At the core of Frotea’s rebranding mission is a pledge to cater to Filipino tastes. In its eleven years of success, Frotea has meticulously curated a menu that resonates with diverse palates. From classic flavors to seasonal delights, they offer a variety that is a testament to its understanding that preferences change and evolve. Regular consumer surveys and product testing are part of Frotea’s efforts to stay ahead of these changes, ensuring that its menu always aligns with the latest trends and consumer desires.

New Horizons: Expanding and Innovating

To commemorate its eleventh anniversary and rebranding, Frotea has introduced three exciting menu additions: Dark Chocolate Ice Cream, Panda Ice Cream, and Fish Waffles. These delightful treats go beyond the traditional milktea offerings, keeping Frotea at the forefront of the game. Frotea’s commitment to innovation means that itsmenu is always evolving, featuring new flavors that reflect trends and consumer preferences.

Spreading Sweetness Nationwide: Future Plans for Growth

Frotea has recognized the vast potential in reaching various regions and demographics across the Philippines. By studying market trends and consumer preferences, the brand has identified strategic areas for growth and expansion. Frotea aims to establish new branches in bustling metropolitan cities and smaller towns, ensuring that the delightful taste of Frotea desserts is easily accessible to people across the nation.

A Sweet Promise: Better in Taste, Service, and Connection

For Ana Lustre-Malijan, the rebranding of Frotea represents not just a claim to the top spot but an aspiration to be better—better in taste, service, and in connecting with the hearts of Filipinos nationwide. By venturing into new markets, adapting to local tastes, and maintaining a steadfast focus on quality and sustainability, Frotea is well on its way to being the undisputed number one milktea brand in the country.

Frotea embraces this rebranding journey with enthusiasm and a promise to continue delighting, surprising, and inspiring customers all over the Philippines. Stay updated on Frotea’s products, branches, and upcoming events by visiting its official website and following it on Facebook and Instagram.

About Frotea: A Taste of Paradise in Every Sip

Frotea has been enchanting taste buds since 2012 with its irresistibly delicious milk tea drinks and fruit juices crafted using authentic ingredients from Taiwan. Founded in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, this rapidly expanding brand now boasts 23 branches across Luzon and Visayas, bringing a little piece of paradise to every cup.

Details and image provided in a recent press release.

Solane LPG Joins Forces with GCash for Seamless Payment Solutions

In an effort to bolster access to safe and quality liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) products across the Philippines, trusted LPG brand Solane has forged a strategic partnership with GCash, the leading finance superapp. This collaboration aims to provide Solane LPG users with flexible payment options and enhance the accessibility of clean cooking fuel.

Bridging the Gap in Cooking Fuel Accessibility

Despite technological advancements, a significant portion of Filipinos, approximately 54%, still rely on traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and fuelwood, contributing to elevated levels of air pollutants and associated health and environmental hazards. Rising commodity prices have led to the proliferation of unregulated or substandard alternatives to LPG, posing a threat of fires and explosions. To combat these challenges and broaden access to safe kitchen fuel, Solane LPG has joined hands with GCash.

Enabling Flexible Payment Options

The collaboration allows Solane LPG users to conveniently pay for their LPG tanks and refills using their GCash wallet. Through GCash Scan-to-Pay facilities, users can settle their payments at select distributor and retail partners. Additionally, customers have the option to choose GCash as the payment method when placing orders through the Solane LPG app or the Solane web portal.

Credit Solutions for LPG Users

For eligible GCash users, the partnership offers the use of GCredit, GCash’s credit line powered by CIMB Bank, and GGives, a buy-now, pay-later installment option. These credit solutions empower users to purchase LPG refills even when facing financial constraints or limited cash availability.

Expanding Reach and Enhancing Customer Experience

Apart from enhancing the customer experience for existing Solane LPG users, the collaboration with GCash is seen as a strategic move to expand Solane’s market reach. GCash boasts over 80 million registered users, with a significant portion hailing from lower socioeconomic classes, including areas outside Metro Manila. The partnership is strategically aligned with Solane LPG’s goal of affordability, providing an affordable payment option for individuals previously reliant on traditional fuels.

Driving Nationwide Distribution and Innovation

The integration of GCash scan-to-pay facilities is anticipated to propel Solane LPG’s nationwide distribution system, comprising over 80 distributors and approximately 11,000 points of sale across the Philippines. This partnership marks a significant step in incorporating digital payment technology into the LPG industry.

Pursuing a Cleaner, Safer Future

This collaboration with GCash is part of Solane LPG’s ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance its services for the domestic market. Previous initiatives, such as the Hatid Bahay delivery system and the 7-Point Safety Check, demonstrate Solane LPG’s commitment to providing convenient, safe, and reliable LPG products.

The partnership with GCash exemplifies the power of collaboration, bringing together like-minded missions to achieve a common goal of providing a safer and cleaner cooking fuel alternative for every Filipino household. Solane LPG remains dedicated to offering peace of mind with every LPG product sold, and partnerships like this contribute to that mission’s success.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Sun Life executives shine with back-to-back wins

Sun Life Financial Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF) continues to bask in the glory of its top executives’ remarkable achievements as Sun Life Philippines proudly announces the recognition of two key leaders. Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC) President Michael Gerard Enriquez and Sun Life General Counsel Atty. Edgar Tordesillas have notched impressive accolades in their respective fields, bringing honor to the organization.

SLIMTC - Michael Enriquez — SLIMTC President, Michael Gerard Enriquez

Gen, Counsel - Atty, Edgar Tordesillas — Sun Life General Counsel, Atty. Edgar Tordesillas

Enriquez Named Among Top 25 ASEAN Selectors

Michael Gerard Enriquez, the President of Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTC), has secured a coveted position among the Top 25 ASEAN Selectors. This prestigious recognition is bestowed upon influential product gatekeepers and investment professionals in the ASEAN region by the esteemed financial publishing and data group, Citywire.

The Top 25 ASEAN Selectors accolade utilizes a rigorous evaluation process, combining quantitative and qualitative criteria. It distinguishes individuals who have pioneered investment and product discussions across the region and have demonstrated tangible enhancements in their organizations, whether in product selection, digital platform development, or personnel management.

Enriquez expressed his delight at this remarkable accomplishment, stating, “It is a great honor to be among the Top 25 ASEAN Selectors. This award is a testament to our commitment to providing clients with the best investing experience possible. I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved through steady and confident strides.”

Atty. Tordesillas Joins Philippines’ GC Powerlist

Meanwhile, Atty. Edgar Tordesillas, Sun Life’s General Counsel, has joined the esteemed ranks of the Philippines’ inaugural GC Powerlist. This recognition program, curated by publisher The Legal 500, celebrates the nation’s foremost in-house lawyers who have made significant contributions to their companies and industries.

The GC Powerlist acknowledges in-house legal professionals who have influenced or shaped opinions within their organizations, devised ingenious solutions to intricate issues, established innovative structures that empower the in-house function to drive business, and created a business working model worthy of emulation by other corporate counsel.

“At Sun Life, integrity is non-negotiable,” emphasized Atty. Tordesillas. “Together with my Legal Team, it is my privilege to bring this principle to life as the company’s General Counsel. This recognition will further inspire us to be catalysts of change for our clients’ brighter future.”

In a world where excellence and dedication shine, Sun Life takes pride in its leaders, whose remarkable accomplishments not only bring prestige to the company but also underscore its commitment to delivering exceptional services and fostering innovation in the financial industry. With Enriquez and Tordesillas at the helm, Sun Life’s future continues to look brighter than ever.

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing asset management, wealth, insurance and health solutions to individual and institutional Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2023, Sun Life had total assets under management of $1.37 trillion. For more information, please visit http://www.sunlife.com.  

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Navigating Sun Life’s Journey: Innovations and commitment to brighter financial futures

In a rapidly evolving landscape of financial services, Sun Life emerges as a beacon of innovation, illuminating the path to brighter futures for Filipinos. Recent developments spanning engaging roadshows, regional recognition, and pioneering investment strategies reflect not just a trail of achievements, but a dedication to empowering individuals and families.

A Vibrant Blend of Inspiration and Community

The “Wish Upon A Sun: Kasa-Kasama sa Roadtrip” event, a collaboration between Sun Life and Wish 107.5, brought a tapestry of music, camaraderie, and inspiration to Iloilo’s Parksquare Festive Walk. Beyond the festivity, the event echoes Sun Life’s Partner for Life campaign, illuminating the brand’s promise to help Filipinos achieve a brighter life while securing their loved ones’ futures.

Local artists like Dan Pornel, Rock Opong, Tropa Vibes, and Mary Anjolie set the stage ablaze, while interactive experiences like Swipe Bright engaged attendees in a novel way to match financial solutions with personal preferences. Yet, it was not just about fun and games; participants gained the chance for free financial consultation, reflecting Sun Life’s commitment to providing tangible value.

Recognition Beyond Borders: Industry Accolades

Sun Life’s impact transcends national borders, earning recognition at esteemed industry awards in Singapore. At the Asia Trusted Life Agents and Advisers Awards (ATLAA), CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison was acknowledged as the Executive Champion of the Year, a testament to his leadership in the industry. Meanwhile, Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (SLGFI) secured the MSME Insurance Initiative of the Year Award for the second consecutive year.

These accolades spotlight Sun Life’s unwavering dedication to excellence and its role in empowering both its team and its clients. This recognition reaffirms Sun Life’s commitment to delivering value beyond expectations.

Pioneering Investment Strategies for Tomorrow’s Growth

Beyond events and recognition, Sun Life propels Filipinos toward brighter tomorrows through innovative investment solutions. The Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund, managed by Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. (SLAMCI), recently earned recognition from the CFA Society Philippines. Named the 2023 Best Managed Fund of the Year in the Equity Fund, Dollar category, this acknowledgment underscores the fund’s consistent performance and its ability to navigate global equity markets.

The Sun Life Prosperity World Voyager Fund breaks the mold by providing access to global equities, empowering investors to seize opportunities worldwide without being confined by specific indices. With an investment horizon tailored for high-risk profiles, this fund symbolizes Sun Life’s commitment to fostering long-term growth and diversification of US Dollar investments.

Guiding Filipinos Toward Radiant Tomorrows

As Sun Life’s journey unfolds, it embodies the spirit of transformation, empowerment, and dedication to a brighter financial future. The milestones achieved, be it through engaging events, regional recognition, or innovative investment strategies, reflect Sun Life’s commitment to guiding Filipinos toward prosperity.

Amidst an ever-changing financial landscape, Sun Life stands steadfast, not just as an industry leader, but as a partner for life. With a resolute promise to empower individuals and families on their journey to financial security and well-being, Sun Life continues to illuminate the path toward the radiant tomorrows that every Filipino deserves.

For further exploration of Sun Life’s offerings and the pursuit of a brighter financial future, visit its website or talk to Sun Life Financial Advisor. The promise of prosperity and security awaits, guided by the unwavering beacon that is Sun Life.

Details provided in recent press releases.

Sun Life: Empowering Advisors, Promoting Sustainability, and Making a Difference in Communities

Sun Life, a leading financial services company, has been making significant strides in various areas, from empowering its advisors to promoting sustainability and making a positive impact in communities. Through a series of recent accomplishments, Sun Life has showcased its commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.

Empowering Advisors for Success

Over 200 Sun Life Advisors Conferred with Wealth Planner Designations by Wealth Management Center

Sun Life’s dedication to empowering its advisors and providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge is exemplified by the recent conferment of Associate Wealth Planner and Certified Wealth Planner designations to over 200 advisors. Through a comprehensive learning program in partnership with the Wealth Management Center (WMC), Sun Life advisors received extensive training in life insurance planning, investment planning, risk management, healthcare, and estate planning. The program emphasized the practical application of knowledge through discussions centered around real-life cases and examinations after each module. By upskilling its advisors, especially those specializing in high-net-worth business, Sun Life ensures that its clients receive expert guidance and exceptional service.

Promoting Financial Security and Sustainability

RCBC Diskartech relaunches voucher promo for availing Sun Life Grepa insurance

In collaboration with RCBC Diskartech, Sun Life is driving accessibility and affordability in life insurance by offering shopping vouchers to new and existing Diskartech users who avail of Sun Life Grepa insurance products. This promo encourages more Filipinos to protect their financial future while providing them with convenient rewards. By combining the power of technology and insurance, Sun Life aims to make life protection packages easily attainable and manageable for individuals and their families. Through this initiative, Sun Life promotes financial security while fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

Investing in a Sustainable Future

Build a sustainable future with Sun Life Grepa’s newest fund

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. takes a significant step towards sustainable investing by launching the SLG Peso Global Sustainability Growth Fund. This sustainability-driven VUL equity fund focuses on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and aims to generate long-term capital appreciation. By investing in global funds that integrate ESG principles, Sun Life Grepa offers investors an opportunity to align their investments with their values. The fund not only delivers financial returns but also contributes to the building of a more sustainable future. Sun Life Grepa’s commitment to sustainable investing reflects its dedication to helping clients achieve lifetime financial security while making a positive impact on society and the environment.

Those interested to avail of the SLG Peso Global Sustainability Growth Fund can contact their Sun Life Grepa Advisor, visit any Sun Life Grepa or RCBC branch, or email wecare@sunlifegrepa.com.

Enriching Lives through Corporate Social Responsibility

Rides for School: Sun Life Foundation donates bikes to school kids

The Sun Life Foundation, in collaboration with Good Neighbors International Philippines (GNIP), demonstrates its commitment to improving communities by donating bicycles to school children in remote areas. These bicycles benefit students who face long and challenging journeys to school. By providing the means of transportation, Sun Life Foundation enables these students to reach school faster, saving time and energy for studying and personal growth. Additionally, the Foundation organized a Sun Life Cycle PH Kids’ Bike Camp, where the recipients learned bike skills, received safety tips, and had the opportunity to ride their new bikes. Sun Life Foundation’s dedication to creating a brighter future extends beyond financial services and contributes to the holistic development of individuals and communities.

Recognitions and Leadership

Sun Life Bags Employer Brand Award and Two HR Chief Accolades

Sun Life’s commitment to its employees and fostering a positive work environment has been recognized with the company being named one of the Philippines’ Best Employer Brands of 2023-2024 at the Employer Branding Awards. Michelle Cordero-Garcia, Sun Life’s Chief Human Resources Officer, also received accolades as one of the Top Most HR Leaders of 2023 and as one of the Philippines’ Woman Leaders. These acknowledgments affirm Sun Life’s dedication to creating a caring and inclusive company culture, attracting top talent, and fostering an environment where employees can thrive. The company’s commitment to its workforce is evident in its mission of helping clients achieve financial security and live healthier lives, making Sun Life a true leader in the industry.

Sun Life’s recent achievements in empowering advisors, promoting sustainability, making a difference in communities, and being recognized for its outstanding employer brand and HR leadership underscore the company’s commitment to excellence and social responsibility. With a focus on employee well-being, sustainable investing, community development, and exceptional leadership, Sun Life is shaping a brighter future for its stakeholders. Through its continued dedication and innovation, Sun Life is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of Filipinos and beyond.

Details provided in recent press releases from Sun Life.

Amah Restaurant’s student-chefs collaborate with Chef Donovan Cooke on a 14-course gourmet dinner

We often hear of restaurants referred to as “hidden gems,” those little-known or undiscovered dining spots that offers exceptional food, service, or ambiance that is worth discovering.

Often tucked away in some out-of-the-way location, these spots may be hard to find but but once discovered, they offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience that makes them stand out from other more well-known restaurants.

It’s no wonder then that foodies like me are always on the lookout for hidden gems; aside from the delicious and unique eats, we greatly enjoy the feeling discovering a hidden treasure that is not widely known, and we take pride in sharing our discovery with others who share our passion for great food.

One such discovery is Amah Restaurant in Taguig City.

A quarantine venture

Amah Restaurant was founded by Chef Jose Villarreal, a young culinary prodigy who parlayed his childhood interest in cuisines into a budding career as a chef. While on lockdown in 2020, he and his classmates at the prestigious Enderun Colleges set about gaining real-world experience in their field by launching their own food business headquartered in Jose’s family home in Taguig.

From researching, test cooking and initially selling food products online, Jose and his team eventually opened AMAH Restaurant, named after his maternal grandmother, situated at the roof deck of his family home in 2021. By October 2022, the restaurant gained accreditation from Enderun Colleges as an establishment where its students can undergo their on-the-job training.

Amah Restaurant is known for its heirloom Filipino-Chinese dishes with a twist such as Sisig Stuffed Chicken Wings, Smoked Char Siu Pork Belly with Bao Buns and Bibingka Cheesecake. These delicacies are prepared by the young chefs who made it a point to use local ingredients and put their own unique twists to heirloom recipes.

The restaurant also treats its patrons to a breathtaking view of the Makati and BGC cityscapes. Sunsets were definitely amazing on the upper roofdeck, making it a favorite for engagement proposals, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

A dream collaboration

Chef Jose recently led his team of fellow student-chefs for a dream collaboration with Chef Donovan Cooke from Melbourne, Australia on a two-night dinner event which featured 14 specially-curated gourmet courses from Chef Donovan’s menu. These dishes were prepared by Chef Jose and his Amah team under the supervision of Chef Donovan himself.

Chef Donovan is known for his exceptional culinary skills and his extensive experience in the fine dining industry. He has worked in some of the most prestigious restaurants around the world and gained recognition for his expertise in seafood as well as for his innovative and creative approach to cooking, which combines classic French techniques with modern Australian flavors.

“This was such an honor for Amah and a great treat for our clientele,” Chef Jose shared. “We were so excited to have had the opportunity to work in the same kitchen as Chef Donovan and to have him guide us as we prepared dishes he developed. It was definitely a major milestone for all of us at Amah. And our guests for those two nights were so lucky for the experience that was in store.”

Chef Donovan Cooke was just as excited about the dinner event. “These young chefs are very dedicated and passionate about their craft. They could have taken it easy during the pandemic, found an excuse to just lay around and rest like many of us did during the lockdowns. But they forged ahead because they’re all determined to continue learning and honing their talents. It was my privilege to be one of their mentors, to encourage them as they make their marks in the business.”

A symphony of flavors

The 14-course dinner took Amah Restaurant’s guests on an exciting flavor journey, with each dish thoughtfully designed to showcase the interplay of ingredients.

The meal startsedwith a refreshing Chilled Oyster Truffle Soup with cos lettuce, followed by the delicate balance of Mud Crab with pomelo, coriander, and ginger. The Torched Sardines with escabeche olive offered a burst of smoky and umami flavors, while the Seared Spiced Tuna with Watercress, pickled mushroom, and truffle dressing offered a combination of spice and earthy notes.

The dinner progressed with the richness of the Mussels Mariniere with parsley and white wine sauce, and the Baby Squid with Pear, Parma Ham, and olive oil emulsion that offered a delightful play of sweet and savory flavors. The Grilled Octopus with Piperade and Spanish chorizo brought a smoky touch to the table, while the Slow Roast Free Range Chicken with celery heart and sauce Bois Bourdain offers a comforting and savory indulgence.

The Hibachi Grilled King Prawn with asparagus and shellfish citrus vinaigrette added a burst of freshness, while the Curry Roast Mahi-Mahi with cauliflower, capers, raisins, and apple offered a unique blend of sweet and spicy flavors. The Spiced Roast Duck with fig compote and spice jus brought a depth of flavors with its combination of sweet and savory notes, while the Braised Beef Shin with balsamic onion and bordelaise sauce offered a rich and succulent experience.

The meal came to a close with the delightful Mango and Almond Cake with Mango Salad and Banana Passionfruit Sorbet, followed by the Spiced Pineapple with Pain Perdu and gingerbread ice cream, offering a sweet and tangy finale to the flavor journey.

To fully appreciate the intricacies of each dish, diners were encouraged to savor each bite, to allow the flavors to linger on the palate while taking note of the unique combinations of ingredients, the textures, and the subtle nuances of flavors that Chef Jose and his team have masterfully crafted. Each dish tells a story, a culmination of culinary expertise and creativity, meant to be savored and enjoyed to the fullest.

After successfully executing a challenging 14-course menu in collaboration with Chef Donovan Cooke, it’s clear that Chef Jose Villareal and his team of student-chefs from Amah Restaurant are ready to take the local food scene by storm. This unique culinary experience allowed them to showcase their skills and creativity in the kitchen, while learning from a master chef like Donovan Cooke.

It sure is exciting to anticipate what more these enterprising young restaurateurs will be able to come up with in the future with the hidden gem Amah Restaurant as the backdrop for these culinary adventures!

Amah Restaurant is located at 27 F. Segundo Street, Phase 4, AFPOVAI, Taguig City, open Tuesdays to Fridays from 5pm to 10pm and Saturdays to Sundays from 10am to 10pm.

To know more about its regular menu, visit its website or follow Amah on Facebook and Instagram. To reserve your table, call +63 998 9721198 or +63 917 5101368, or visit heirloomamah.com/reserveme.

Disclosure: Together with fellow content creators, I attended a food tasting held at this restaurant. Food items mentioned here were served to us at no cost.