Friday, 27 June 2025

Ditch the Swipe. Date in Style


Singapore / Bangkok — 25 June 2025 — The dating world is broken—and SPARK (spark.love) is here to fix it.

Forget endless swiping. Forget ghosting. Forget “U up?” messages. SPARK, Asia’s first premium dating and experience platform, has officially launched in Thailand and Singapore, and it’s turning the dating game into a bespoke lifestyle movement.

💥 This Isn’t Another Dating App. It’s a Whole Damn Vibe.

SPARK helps you actually date. From candlelit rooftop dinners to mixology masterclasses, scenic yacht escapes to private sushi tastings—users can match, connect, and book curated real-life experiences with people they actually want to meet.

Inside the SPARK app, you don’t just swipe—you send real date invites to verified profiles, book beautiful venues directly inside the app, and kick off meaningful connections in the real world.

And yes, it’s as sexy as it sounds.

“We're not another hookup app. SPARK is for people who are done wasting time and ready for something real—with taste, intent, and unforgettable experiences,” says Sunny Khurana, Founder & CEO.

🔥 Already Buzzing:

1,500+ active users in the first few weeks

150+ premium venues integrated for in-app bookings

A waitlist of 3,000+ singles across Thailand and Singapore

Featured in exclusive mixers, brand collaborations, and viral campaigns

🎯 Built for Singles With Standards

SPARK is built for those who demand more—from love, from life, and from their dating app. Every profile is vetted. Every date is bookable. Every experience is unforgettable.

In July, SPARK is launching its “Ditch the Swipe. Date a Star.” virality campaign, with users sharing why they left dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge for something more elevated. The top entry wins a $25,000 celebrity yacht date—because yes, SPARK plays big.

📲 Download SPARK Now

SPARK is available now in Thailand and Singapore on iOS and Android.

Download SPARK at www.spark.love

Because dating should feel like a dream you don’t want to wake up from—not a bad UX loop with strangers and screens.

About SPARK

SPARK is led by a powerhouse team of seasoned operators and bold dreamers redefining the future of dating in Asia. Co-founded by Sunny Khurana, a serial entrepreneur, and Michael Cluzel, former Group CEO of Eatigo, the team blends deep expertise in hospitality, growth, and user experience. Backed by leaders from MoneyHero, Deloitte Digital, Wows Global and more, SPARK has already raised $400,000+ in early-stage funding and is now closing its $250,000 bridge round at a $5M valuation. With plans to expand into 5+ markets by 2026, SPARK is poised to become the most aspirational dating and lifestyle brand in the region. “We’re building the Soho House of dating—an exclusive, elegant platform where people with great taste find each other, in real life,” says Sunny Khurana, Founder, CEO, Spark.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

ILDEX Philippines 2025 Expands to Halls 1–4: Setting a New Benchmark for the Livestock Industry | 27–29 August 2025, SMX Convention Center Manila


May 2025 - Manila, Philippines – ILDEX Philippines, the leading international exhibition for the livestock, dairy, meat processing, and aquaculture industries, is proud to announce its expansion to Hall 4 at the SMX Convention Center Manila. Taking place from 27–29 August 2025, this expansion marks the largest edition in the show’s history, reinforcing ILDEX Philippines' role as the premier platform for the industry in Southeast Asia.

The expansion follows the strategic announcement in November 2024 to annualize the Philippine Poultry Show and ILDEX Philippines. Since then, overwhelming interest from both local and international stakeholders has driven the need for additional space. The addition of Hall 4 ensures that the growing number of exhibitors can be accommodated, delivering an even more vibrant and comprehensive experience for all participants.

“In response to the growing interest and increasing number of exhibitors and visitors, we are excited to announce the expansion of the exhibition space for the Poultry Show and ILDEX. This move will allow us to accommodate more participants, showcase a wider range of innovations, and enhance the overall event experience. The additional space will also improve traffic flow, provide more networking areas, and ensure a more comfortable environment for both exhibitors and attendees.

We are working hard to provide exhibitors and visitors with a brand-new experience at the Poultry Show and ILDEX Philippines. We look forward to welcoming everyone to a bigger and better event this year” stated by Ms.Mildred Esquillo, PPS Event Manager, DeltaMan.

An Unparalleled Gathering of Global and Local Industry Leaders This year's edition will bring together an impressive lineup of brands, with 75% of exhibitors representing international companies and 25% from the Philippines. Confirmed national pavilions include major presences from Europe and China, underscoring the global significance of ILDEX Philippines.

Visitors can expect to meet and connect with many of the world’s leading names in the livestock industry, including:

ADM, Alltech, Atlas, Big Dutchman, Bounty, Cargill, CEVA, CP Food Philippines, DSM-Firmenich, Elanco, EQUALIVET, PhilNutri, Philchema, Pilmico, Pure Bioscience, Superiorvet, and Vitarich. These renowned companies represent the full spectrum of the livestock supply chain—from animal health and nutrition to feed production, breeding, genetics, equipment, and processing solutions—showcasing the very latest innovations and technologies.

We have received really positive response from the industry and our clients over the past months since we decided to annualize the show. This has given us a lot more confidence to expand into hall 4, allowing us to welcome more leading exhibitors and participants together in “Philippine Poultry Show & ILDEX Philippines 2025”. This extension is not only reflecting the show’s growth, but also showing our commitment to the development of the livestock industry in the Philippines market.” Mr. Kevin Zhao, Senior Project Manager, ILDEX Philippines, said.

New Highlights for 2025: A Broader and Deeper Focus ILDEX Philippines 2025 will not only continue to be the key platform for the feed and poultry sectors, but will also place a strong new emphasis on the swine and aquatic industries. Dedicated exhibition zones and technical seminars will allow visitors to gain cutting-edge insights and solutions tailored to these rapidly growing sectors.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Program Launching in June 2025, the Hosted Buyer Program offers selected key buyers with strong purchasing power in the livestock, feed, and aquaculture industries complimentary flights and hotel in Manila. This highly curated program provides exclusive networking opportunities, personalized business matchmaking services, and valuable one-on-one connections between buyers and exhibitors to maximize the business impact of the event. Application details will be announced via email and on the official website. For further information, please contact info@ildex-philippines.com.

A Show Not to Be Missed With a greatly expanded exhibition space, a record number of leading brands, new sector highlights, and enhanced networking opportunities, ILDEX Philippines 2025 is set to be the must-attend event for anyone involved in the livestock, dairy, meat processing, and aquaculture industries. This year’s edition will deliver unparalleled business opportunities, learning experiences, and industry connections—solidifying ILDEX Philippines as the most important livestock event in the region.

About VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.

Secure your place now and be part of the future of livestock innovation at Philippine Poultry Show & ILDEX Philippines 2025. Register now at https://ildexph2025.jupinnothai.net/Registration/ChooseTypeRegis.aspx?codeInv=ILDPH06
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Watsons Kicks Off with EXTRA-mazing Surprises at SM Mall of Asia

 


Watsons turned up the excitement last June 24 with the official launch of its Shop Now for EXTRA-mazing Surprises Campaign at the Watsons Mall of Asia store, treating shoppers, fans, and guests to a high-energy experience complete with brand showcases, exclusive product perks, and limited-time surprises that lived up to the campaign’s name.

The event was packed with music, exclusive perks and activities, and a preview of the new offers lined up for the quarter. Headlining the program were two of today’s fast-rising OPM acts—1st.One and Amiel Sol.

“Today’s event isn’t just about new promos or exciting performances—it’s a celebration of our continued commitment to creating experiences that go the extra mile for our customers. Our goal at Watsons has always been to go beyond just offering a wide range of products. We want to give our customers an experience that’s EXTRA —from the way they shop, to the rewards they receive,” said Joweeh Liao, Health Business Unit, Finance, Property, and Store Development Director of Watsons.

As part of the rollout, Watsons introduced its two EXTRA-mazing promos to reward loyal Watsons Club members:

1 Million Watsons Club Points to be given away:

Until August 20, Watsons Club Members who spend a minimum of P1,000 in a single receipt are eligible to join the e-raffle for a chance to win Watsons Club points—with a total of 1 million points up for grabs on Watsons’ biggest e-raffle to date.

Get Instant Viu Rewards and a chance to Win a Year-Long Subscription:

Members can also earn a raffle entry for a chance to win a one-year Viu subscription with every P1,000 purchase that includes participating health and beauty products. Meanwhile, those who shop online with a minimum spend of P1,500 will receive a one-month Viu subscription instantly.

“These promos are more than just incentives—they’re an invitation to experience the Watsons' difference, and to feel valued every step of the way,” added Liao. “We want to make every visit to Watsons feel like a celebration—and with these promos, we’re making that happen.”

Beyond the promotions, the event underscored Watsons’ commitment to helping Filipinos look good, do good, and feel great. With over 1,100 stores nationwide, an extensive range of health, wellness and beauty products, and services like Express Delivery and Click & Collect via the Watsons App, the brand continues to make it easier for Filipinos to stay healthy and confident.

Going EXTRA, Watsons also reinforced its mission of creating a positive impact through accessible healthcare, sustainability efforts, and programs that uplift communities and support the planet.

“Because our customers deserve more than just great deals, they also deserve moments that are rewarding, delightful, and truly memorable,” said Liao. “That’s why we also invite everyone to sign up as Watsons Club members to enjoy even more exclusive benefits.”

To learn more about Watsons’ EXTRA-mazing promos and updates, follow @WatsonsPH on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, or download the Watsons App.

 
About Watsons
Watsons is the flagship health and beauty brand of A.S. Watson Group, the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer. Established in 1841, AS Watson Group is one of the world's longest-standing and most recognised retail companies with roots in Asia.
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES
 

Thursday, 26 June 2025

This Father’s Day, Give Dad the Gift of Real Rest with Ogawa Meister

 

Fathers don’t always ask for much—but behind the strong front are long hours, sore muscles, and a well of unspoken exhaustion. This Father’s Day, it's time to turn the tables. Let’s not just thank Dad. Let’s give him something he rarely asks for but absolutely deserves--rest.

OGAWA Philippines invites you to celebrate the heart of the home with the Meister Massage Chair—a next-generation wellness experience designed for the ultimate relaxation and recovery. It’s more than just a massage chair. It’s your dad’s new personal sanctuary.

Introducing the OGAWA Meister: For the Man Who Does It All

The OGAWA Meister Massage Chair, now officially launched in time for Father’s Day, redefines what it means to give back to Dad. Every inch of this chair was built to support the ones who support us.

From early mornings at work to late nights fixing what’s broken, the Meister is a thank-you in the form of advanced wellness technology—delivered with luxury, comfort, and care.

Next-Level Features Fit for a Hero

Powered by Overseer Technology, the Meister doesn’t just massage—it understands. Its AI Fatigue Measurement and AI Analysis & Program Recommendation systems scan and assess the body, then intelligently recommend the ideal massage for your dad’s current state.

With 25 automatic massage programs to choose from, the Meister makes sure every muscle gets the attention it deserves—whether it’s a deep tissue session after a long day or a gentle unwind before bed.

The Meister also includes:

Voice Control for hands-free convenience

Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) for targeted relief

Over-The-Air Technology for seamless updates and added programs

It’s not just a chair—it’s a wellness companion that evolves with your dad’s needs.

Make His Comfort a Priority—Now More Than Ever

This Father’s Day, the OGAWA Meister is available at a special promo price of only ₱299,000.00 (down from ₱429,000.00 SRP).

And with up to 36 months installment through partner banks, giving Dad the luxury he’s long put off is now easier and more accessible than ever.

Because Dads Deserve More Than Just a Tie

This year don’t settle for a generic gift. Give Dad what he truly deserves: peace, quiet, and a chair that treats him like the king of the house.

Visit any OGAWA showroom nationwide to experience the Meister for yourself or explore the full collection at www.ogawaworld.net.ph.

Let Dad sit back, relax, and feel appreciated—not just on Father’s Day, but every day.

Operating at full capacity with over 30 stores nationwide, OGAWA branches include key locations in One Ayala Makati, Greenhills Mall, Gateway Mall 2, Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 5, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, TriNoma, UP Town Center, Promenade Greenhills, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, SM BF Parañaque, and Newport Mall. For those outside Metro Manila, OGAWA can also be found in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna, SM Seaside City Cebu, SM Lanang Premier in Davao, SM Clark in Pampanga, and SM City Olongapo Central.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Wednesday, 25 June 2025

Creativeans, NAFA, and Apex Harmony Lodge Inspire Purposeful Design for Dementia Care

 

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SINGAPORE, June 23, 2025 — In a heartfelt initiative that bridges creativity and compassion, a groundbreaking cross-sector collaboration between Creativeans, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) 3D Design students, and Apex Harmony Lodge brought together social care, education, and design consultancy to empower the next generation of designers to make a meaningful impact through design for dementia care. This rare partnership unfolded over 14 weeks from January to April 2025, culminating in a moving showcase of empathy-led care objects designed by NAFA 3D Design students for the residents of Apex Harmony Lodge.

When Creativity Meets Compassion

Apex Harmony Lodge, Singapore’s first and only purpose-built lodge for people living with dementia, opened its doors to NAFA 3D Design students for a rare, immersive opportunity to design for real needs. Under the guidance of Kimming Yap, Managing Director of Creativeans and Adjunct Lecturer at NAFA, students were introduced to the daily realities faced by residents, caregivers, and social workers at the lodge. These firsthand experiences offered a critical foundation for students to understand the emotional, physical, and relational challenges of dementia care.

Designing with Purpose

What followed was more than a classroom project. Students applied human-centred design and design thinking methodologies to create caring objects that promote dignity, connection, and comfort. From empathetic interviews to iterative prototyping, students transformed insights into tangible innovations that reflect both creativity and respect for the lived experiences of the dementia community.

“Design education too often happens in a vacuum, detached from the real people it’s meant to serve. With this project, we challenged that norm by bringing students directly into the world of dementia care, where empathy isn’t a concept, but a necessity,” said Kimming Yap, Managing Director of Creativeans. “Through deep engagement with the residents and caregivers at Apex Harmony Lodge, students began to understand that design isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about being present, listening, and co-creating with purpose. Our hope is that this collaboration becomes a model for how design education can bridge generations, industries, and communities to create impact where it truly matters.

A Showcase of Empathy in Action

During the final presentation, students unveiled their prototypes to the residents and staff of Apex Harmony Lodge. Their work included a range of supportive caring objects, each informed by deep user insights and feedback gathered through iterative co-design sessions. The showcase was not only a presentation of ideas but a celebration of shared humanity and collaborative innovation.

Designing for Dignity and Impact

This project exemplifies the profound impact design can have when empathy meets cross-sector collaboration. It highlights the value of real-world learning for young creatives and reinforces how partnerships between social care, education, and consultancy can enable design to become a force for good.

“The students demonstrated genuine curiosity and empathy during their visit, taking time to understand the lived experiences of persons with dementia (PWDs) and the principles behind our person-centred care approach. Their thoughtful designs reflected a deep sensitivity to the needs of our residents,” said Amirah Sulaiman, Senior Executive from Apex Harmony Lodge “I truly appreciated their initiative to seek input from our staff and residents, from testing their ideas with us to refining their concepts based on real-life feedback. The final presentations were not only creative but also practical, offering fresh ideas to enhance daily living and engagement for both residents and staff."

Empowering the Next Generation

This initiative is a testament to the power of collaborative action between sectors not commonly seen working together, non-profit care, education, and design consultancy. It brought together diverse expertise to guide students through a human-centred process rooted in empathy, real-world insight, and creative innovation.

“A heartfelt thank you to Apex Harmony Lodge for the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with them. This experience prepared me for real-world design challenges and taught me how to approach design with empathy. With the residents in mind, I discovered that nostalgic products can be powerful tools to encourage communication and alleviate feelings of boredom and depression. This insight led to the creation of my design, Coinabox, inspired by the Coinafon devices popular in the 1970s,” said Arlena, reflecting on the experience.

“The resident I interacted with was excited about the butterfly sewing toys, which help with hand coordination skills. They tried their best to test the toy using the needle and string, even though the sewing hole was too small. I had a fruitful experience, as the resident shared how she liked to sew during her younger days, and I learned a lot from them.” added Crystal, one of the participating students.

For NAFA 3D Design students, the experience offered a deeply meaningful opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real-world, human-focused context. Through strategic guidance and support, students developed creative confidence, honed transferable skills, and discovered the role of design in fostering dignity and connection. For Apex Harmony Lodge, the collaboration provided new avenues to reimagine care through design thinking, transforming insights into solutions that support daily life with compassion and purpose.

About Creativeans
Creativeans is an award-winning brand and design consultancy based in Singapore, Milan, and Jakarta. Since 2012, Creativeans has partnered with forward-thinking organisations to build brands that matter. From strategy to execution, Creativeans specialises in branding, business design, packaging design, communication design, UI/UX, and sustainability design, powered by proprietary methodologies such as BrandBuilder® and EDIT Design Thinking®. (www.creativeans.com) About NAFA Established in 1938, the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) is Singapore’s pioneer arts institution, renowned for its rigorous curriculum, practitioner-led teaching, and commitment to Southeast Asian arts. With a strong global network and acclaimed alumni, NAFA offers diploma to postgraduate programmes across art, design, performing arts, and interdisciplinary practices, nurturing creative changemakers who shape the arts locally and beyond. (www.nafa.edu.sg) About Apex Harmony Lodge Established in 1999, Apex Harmony Lodge (AHL) is Singapore’s first and only purpose-built home for persons with dementia. More than just a care facility, AHL is a community that celebrates dementia as a unique life phase. Through personalised care, caregiver empowerment, and sector training, AHL promotes dignity, joy, and wellbeing for all affected by dementia. AHL is a registered Institute of Public Character and Charity. (www.apexharmony.org.sg)

Taxumo and Cebuana Lhuillier to Fuel Business Growth for Filipino Entrepreneurs

Taxumo, the trusted online tax filing platform, has partnered with Cebuana Lhuillier, one of the Philippines’ largest and leading microfinancial services provider, to empower Filipino entrepreneurs through accessible business loans and empower MSMEs with simplified tax compliance.

A Partnership Rooted in Empowerment

“Filipino entrepreneurs face unique challenges, from complex tax regulations to limited access to financing. This partnership brings together the strengths of Taxumo’s seamless tax filing system and Cebuana Lhuillier’s trusted loan offerings to provide a holistic support system,” said Geraldine Arboleda, CEO at Taxumo.

For Cebuana Lhuillier, the partnership is an extension of its long-standing mission to uplift underserved sectors. “For over 35 years, we’ve helped Filipinos access financial tools once out of their reach. This collaboration with Taxumo is a powerful next step—connecting the dots between financial access and responsible business growth. It’s about fueling ambition, and backing that ambition with real, timely support,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President & CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

Taxumo subscribers can now apply for Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microbusiness Loan directly through the Taxumo platform, allowing for a streamlined process that integrates income verification and loan application in one place.

Loan Offerings Tailored to Entrepreneurs' Needs

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microbusiness Loan caters to diverse business needs, including working capital, inventory financing, equipment purchases, and short-term cash flow support. Key features include:

- Loan amounts from ₱10,000 to ₱500,000

- Competitive monthly interest rates of 3% to 5%

- Flexible repayment terms of 6 or 12 months

- Fast approval times between 3 to 7 working days

Exclusive benefits for Taxumo users include priority loan processing and reduced documentation requirements, recognizing their commitment to responsible business management.

Driving Real Growth for Filipino Entrepreneurs

This partnership is already making an impact for many, from sari-sari store owners to ride-hailing drivers, providing timely access to capital that helps businesses restock, upgrade equipment, and manage cash flow gaps.

Cebuana Lhuillier guarantees strict data privacy, transparency in lending terms, and ethical collection practices, with ongoing financial education through their Kanegosyo Center —a dedicated hub that offers free training, resources, and mentorship to help micro and small business owners grow and sustain their enterprises. Taxumo subscribers are encouraged to explore this opportunity to unlock the financing they need to elevate their businesses.
For more information, visit www.taxumo.com or Taxumo’s InstagramFacebook, and Tiktok Pages.

About Taxumo

Taxumo is the pioneering, multi-awarded online tax filing and payment platform in the Philippines—the easiest way for Filipino small business owners, self-employed professionals, and freelancers to prepare, file, and pay their taxes, as well as register their businesses. With Taxumo, all you need to do is put in your income and expenses, and Taxumo does the rest (from computing your tax dues, to filling up BIR tax forms, and paying taxes online).
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

MyGlit Launches AI Platform to Streamline Philippines BPO Hiring

The Philippines' vital BPO sector, a major employer facing persistent recruitment challenges, is seeing a new approach to talent matching. MyGlit, an AI-powered job platform built specifically for high-volume hiring, has been operational in the Philippines since 2018, focusing on improving efficiency and transparency for both employers and job seekers.

The platform addresses common pain points: candidates often apply "blindly" with low response rates, while recruiters struggle with high application volumes and time-consuming manual screening. MyGlit tackles this by providing instant, AI-driven feedback to candidates on their resume's fit for each role ("Select," "Reject," or "Consider"), helping them target applications more effectively.

For BPO companies like Teleperformance, EXL, and Foundever – already leveraging MyGlit across Metro Manila, Cebu, and regional hubs – the platform offers automated CV-to-job description matching and recruiter performance analytics. This aims to reduce initial review time and improve the accuracy of shortlisting.

"The goal isn't AI making final decisions, but giving everyone involved – candidates and recruiters – clearer signals and faster feedback loops," said Akhil Ahluwalia, Founder of MyGlit. "We're building MyGlit to become the go-to platform for efficient and transparent BPO hiring in the Philippines."

Key Solutions for the Philippine BPO Market:

Reducing Blind Applications: Shows candidates immediate fit feedback, helping them apply smarter.

Improving Recruiter Efficiency: Automates initial screening based on BPO role requirements (voice, non-voice, shift-based).

Enhancing Transparency: Provides candidates with clearer application status updates.

Built for Scale & Compliance: Designed for high-volume processing while adhering to Philippine data privacy regulations and GDPR.

Positioning for Recognition:

Unlike general job boards, MyGlit is purpose-built for the unique demands of the Philippine BPO recruitment market. Its focus on AI-driven matching, candidate transparency, and recruiter performance analytics positions it as a specialized solution targeting core inefficiencies within the region's BPO job portal sector.

About MyGlit

MyGlit is an AI-driven recruitment platform focused on high-volume BPO hiring. By automating initial resume evaluation and providing recruiter analytics, MyGlit supports companies and candidates primarily in the Philippines, while expanding its platform to India, Kenya, Nigeria, and Malaysia. The platform is dedicated to simplifying large-scale recruitment while enhancing the quality of job matches for both employers and job seekers. Learn more at https://www.myglit.com.

About Gratitude Jobs Ahead Hr inc

MyGlit is a recruitment technology platform built by recruiters, for recruiters. We began our journey in India in 2004 and expanded to the Philippines in 2017 under our parent company, Gratitude Inc. As our recruitment volume grew, we couldn't find an ATS that truly fit our needs—so we built one ourselves. What started as an internal tool to simplify our daily work evolved into a full-scale AI-powered platform designed with love for recruiters everywhere.
 
This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Ditch the Swipe. Date in Style

Singapore / Bangkok — 25 June 2025 — The dating world is broken—and SPARK (spark.love) is here to fix it. Forget endless swiping. Forget gho...