Tag: books

  • From Survivor to Fighter: Jolene Hexx’s Journey of Strength and Self-Empowerment

    From Survivor to Fighter: Jolene Hexx’s Journey of Strength and Self-Empowerment

    Jolene “The Valkyrie” Hexx has built a career defined by resilience, self-reinvention, and unshakable determination. As a model, performer, and three-time Lingerie Fighting Championships (LFC) belt holder, she has carved out a space where strength – both physical and emotional – becomes power. But behind the fighter is a survivor whose journey began with a decision to fight for herself and her child.

    Her warrior instinct was forged long before she ever stepped into the LFC cage growing up in rural Illinois, and after leaving her roots behind, she embarked on a spiritual retreat to Israel, where she was introduced to Krav Maga, setting the foundation for a career in combat sports. While working in executive protection, she stumbled into Uganda’s underground MMA circuit, compiling a 14-4 record before transitioning into professional fighting.

    But Hexx’s toughest fight came outside the ring. “Unfortunately and fortunately, I’m a domestic violence survivor as of 14 years ago,” she shares. “It wasn’t the typical story of staying in an escalating violent situation – although there were signs of mental instability. Instead, it was an attack early one morning on me and my 3-month-old infant, which resulted in an attempted homicide/strangulation charge and imprisonment for my child’s father.”

    With parental rights terminated, Hexx faced single parenthood head-on. One week after the attack, she attended her first Krav Maga self-defense class, still bruised but determined to reclaim control. “Self-defense wasn’t just about learning how to fight, it gave me the skills to protect myself and my daughter until the sentencing hearing,” she says. “It was a turning point. It led me into the ‘strong girl’ niche career I have today, one that financially provides for my family and allows me to own my strength.”

    Hexx has since turned survival into success, competing in combat sports, performing in independent films, and modeling for print and online publications. In March 2025, she celebrates another milestone, gracing the cover of Playboy South Africa, an achievement she calls “a highlight of my modeling career.”

    Through every chapter – fighter, performer, mother – Hexx refuses to be defined by her past. “I have survived, I have built, and I have thrived,” she says. “My story is mine, and I own every piece of it.”

    Fans can follow Jolene Hexx’s journey at JoleneHexx.com and on social media at X @JoleneValkyrie and Instagram @Hexxibitionist. For booking inquiries, email BookMe@JoleneHexx.com.

  • Unioil Launches “Fueled for Life” Challenge

    Unioil Launches “Fueled for Life” Challenge

    Unioil Petroleum Philippines, Inc. has officially launched the thrilling “Fueled for Life Challenge,” inviting motorists across Luzon to embark on an adventure for the ultimate reward: free fuel for life.

    In this high-stakes race, the first 4-wheeler driver and the first 2-wheeler driver to successfully visit 30 unique participating Unioil stations will each win the coveted grand prize of free fuel for life. Meanwhile, the next 30 finishers in each category won’t go home empty-handed—they’ll receive free fuel for one full year.

    The challenge runs from June 13 to October 15, 2025, transforming everyday refueling into an exciting race across Luzon. Participation is open to all legal Philippine residents with a valid driver’s license and a personally or family-owned vehicle (with proof of ownership).

    How to Join

    Participants must register at [https://fueledforlife.unioil.com] to receive a Fueled for Life Virtual ID. This ID must be presented at any participating Unioil station to claim a physical passport, which includes a unique alphanumeric code to be linked to the participant’s online account.

    Each qualifying purchase—minimum ₱1,200 for 4-wheelers and ₱200 for 2-wheelers—generates a QR code. Participants must scan this code and upload a photo of themselves holding the station’s unique signage (available from fuel attendants) to verify their visit. Upon successful check-in, their passport will be stamped, unlocking the next leg of their journey.

    Challenge Requirements

    To complete the challenge, participants must visit 30 unique participating Unioil stations across five areas:

    7 stations in North Metro 

    7 stations in South Metro 

    6 stations in East NCR and Rizal 

    5 stations in North Luzon 

    5 stations in South Luzon 

    Only one station visit per day is allowed, and only visits to participating stations will be credited.

    Winning and Verification

    The first drivers to complete all 30 check-ins, as recorded on the Fueled for Life website, will be declared winners.

    Grand prize winners will be notified via their registered phone number and mail, and must visit Unioil’s head office in Ortigas Center with their stamped passport (one unique stamp for each station visited), valid ID, and vehicle documents. Major prize winners will receive instructions to submit their documents online.

    Don’t Miss Out!

    This is your chance to win free fuel for life. For full challenge mechanics and station locations, visit [https://unioil.com/news/fueled-for-life] or contact Unioil Customer Service via Facebook at [www.facebook.com/unioil].

  • Hepmil Philippines Strengthens Leadership with Joanna Mojica

    Hepmil Philippines Strengthens Leadership with Joanna Mojica

    Hepmil Philippines, a trailblazer in the digital advertising and creator economy, proudly announces the appointment of Joanna Chan Mojica as Chairperson of the Board.

    With over 30 years of transformative leadership in the Philippine advertising industry, Joanna joins a fast-rising company that has already made its mark working with powerhouse clients like Jollibee, Unilever, Unilab, CDO, and Century Pacific Food, alongside agency partners such as Publicis Groupe and GroupM.

    In her new role, Joanna will advise and report directly to Hepmil Media Group CEO Karl Mak while partnering closely with Erwin Razon, General Manager of Hepmil Philippines. Her appointment underscores Hepmil’s ambition to lead the charge in the Philippines’ booming digital advertising and creator landscape.

    Joanna’s storied career continues with pivotal roles as she takes on concurrent responsibilities as President of AmplifAI Media Services (since July 2024) and shareholder of Metropolis Evolving Media Solutions (since 2018).

    Her depth of experiences were shaped by her past roles as Connexion Head at Unilab Inc., Chief Media Officer at Dentsu Aegis Network Philippines, CEO of Starcom MediaVest Group, Investment Head of GroupM, Media Director roles in MindShare and J. Walter Thompson. 

    Renowned for her data-driven strategies and visionary leadership, she has shaped the industry’s evolution, making her a coveted addition to Hepmil Philippines’ leadership.

    “Hepmil Philippines has been our group’s standout growth market since we entered as a startup in 2018 through PGAG. Joanna has been a mentor, advisor, and friend to us from day one, guiding our journey with her unparalleled insight.”

    Joanna Chan Mojica outlined her vision for Hepmil’s future: “The landscape of content and advertising is shifting—audiences crave authenticity, brands seek cultural relevance, and creators are at the forefront of this evolution.”

    Hepmil Philippines’ rapid ascent is evident in its expanding workforce, with headcount set to surpass 100 full-time employees by the end of 2025. The company’s collaborations with leading clients—such as Unilab and Century Pacific Food—and its innovative campaigns, like the award-winning Generation Joy program with Jollibee at the 60th Anvil Awards, have solidified its reputation as a creative and strategic force.

    Erwin Razon, General Manager of Hepmil Philippines, added, “Joanna brings unmatched expertise and a legacy of leadership to our team. Her strategic vision aligns perfectly with our mission to innovate and grow in this dynamic industry. With her steering the board, we’re poised to set new benchmarks for excellence.”

    Joanna’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for Hepmil Philippines, blending her seasoned insight with the company’s dynamic energy. This partnership positions Hepmil as a key player to watch in the evolving advertising landscape.

  • Jollibee ACE Scholars: Training for Future Careers – TBC News

    Jollibee ACE Scholars: Training for Future Careers – TBC News

    More than a dozen Cebuano youth successfully completed a food service training program under Jollibee Group Foundation Inc.’s (JGF),  Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Scholarship Program, which was run in collaboration with the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) and Primary Structures Educational Foundation, Inc. – School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, Leadership, and Service (PSEFI-SKILLS). 

    Eighteen (18) ACE scholars, who were previously youth not in employment, education, and training, were endorsed for employment in Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich stores in Cebu, giving them a chance to immediately apply their learnings from the program and continue their journey with the Jollibee Group.

    “We celebrate the achievement of our 18 scholars, who have shown remarkable determination to learn during their six-month exposure,” shared Ruth Angeles, JFC Philippines Chief Human Resources Officer and Jollibee International HR Head. “As a global restaurant company with proudly Filipino roots, we will continue to do our part to provide more opportunities for the youth to gain meaningful employment.” 

    Charlene Revelleza, 19 years old, is among the graduates of the program. In her earnest desire to help her parents, she was turned down by different companies and eventually found a job assisting in laundry. When she heard about the opportunity to be a JGF ACE scholar, she did not hesitate to grab it.

    “Kahit na ako ay kumikita na sa pagiging labandera, hindi ko pinalagpas ang pagkakataong

    maging ACE scholar. Napakagandang opportunity na kami ay makapag-aral ng food and beverage training at mabigyan ng hands-on training sa Jollibee.” [Even if I was earning money doing laundry, I did not pass on the opportunity to be an ACE Scholar. It is a good opportunity for us to have food and beverage training, and to have hands-on experience at Jollibee], shared Revelleza.

    The ACE Scholarship Program involved working with store managers and crew members in select Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich stores in Cebu City to learn customer service, food handling, and other operational procedures. It includes a series of learning sessions in the Food and Beverage Services National Certificate (NC II) qualification and an Inventory Management Module conducted by PSEFI-SKILLS.

    Reflecting on her experience, Revelleza says the program provided her with not only technical abilities, but also the mindset of hard effort, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. “Dahil sa oportunidad na ito, masisimulan ko na ang pagkamit ng iba ko pang mga pangarap para sa akin at sa aking pamilya.” [Thanks to this opportunity, I can begin to achieve my dreams for both myself and my family], Revelleza continued.

    “We are glad to participate in this multi-sectoral effort to address youth unemployment through our ACE Scholarship Program,” shared Gisela Tiongson, President of Jollibee Group Foundation Inc. “By investing in the youth, we are not only helping them secure a brighter future but also empowering the next generation to be the leaders of our country.”

    “Partnerships between technical vocational schools and companies such as the Jollibee Group are vital to equipping the youth with the skills and experience they need to secure meaningful employment,” shared Ms. Paulette D. Liu, President and COO of PSEFI-SKILLS. “We are thankful for our partnership with the Jollibee Group and Jollibee Group Foundation, whose support helps us fulfill our mission of training globally competent Filipino workers.”

  • Empowered Moms: Anne Curtis on Financial Planning for Families – TBC News

    Empowered Moms: Anne Curtis on Financial Planning for Families – TBC News

    Anne Curtis can do it all. From delivering dramatic dialogue on the big screen to making audiences laugh with her wit and humor on a noontime show to taking the fashion and beauty world by storm, the actress, host, entrepreneur, and Manulife brand ambassador is a familiar woman to Filipinos.

    But for Anne, her most important role is that of “Mommy” to her daughter Dahlia Amélie.

    “Becoming a mother transformed my priorities and deepened my respect for working moms. I’m so inspired by all the amazing women I’ve met who provide for their families while managing personal careers and goals. In the same way, I hope I inspire Dahlia that she is empowered to chase her own dreams,” Anne shared.

    To Anne and her husband Erwan Heussaff, every moment with their daughter is precious. They make it a point to spend time with Dahlia, whether by going on trips together, hanging out with family and friends, or simply cooking delicious meals.

    “No matter how busy life gets, we want to be by Dahlia’s side as she grows up. That’s why early preparation with the right financial and health plans has been key to secure our family’s future.  We can count on our Manulife insurance plans to protect our financial stability as healthcare costs rise, especially due to critical illnesses. With a trusted insurance provider like Manulife, I hope more Filipinas feel reassured that their families are financially protected,” Anne added.

    Manulife offers HealthFlex, a comprehensive plan, to help moms like Anne manage financial concerns around critical illnesses, such as breast cancer and heart disease—among the leading causes of death for Filipino women. HealthFlex offers lifetime protection until 100 years of age or reaps maturity benefits and long-life bonuses through dividends.

    “Like our brand ambassador Anne, Filipinos can make empowered financial choices and have the advantage of comprehensive coverage with a plan like HealthFlex. Manulife is dedicated to ensuring our customers’ financial protection and safeguard their hard-earned savings in the face of critical illness,” shared Sonali Verma, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines.

    Verma added, “Manulife HealthFlex plan gives customers a financial safety net for potential critical illness expenses, allowing them to focus on what truly matters—helping them realize better days with their loved ones.”

    To know more about HealthFlex and Manulife’s broad suite of health and life protection plans, visit www.manulife.com.ph or talk to a Manulife financial advisor. 

  • First Bite, Lasting Obsession: Burger & Lobster’s Philippine Debut at SM Supermalls

    First Bite, Lasting Obsession: Burger & Lobster’s Philippine Debut at SM Supermalls

    Manila’s food scene is about to get a major upgrade. Global dining sensation Burger & Lobster is finally making its Philippine debut at SM, the #HomeofFirsts, bringing its world-famous wild-caught lobsters and prime cut burgers to Manila’s most discerning foodies, ready to redefine casual dining with a premium feel in the country.

    The London-based sensation started and found its success by focusing on two ingredients—perfecting them with precision and passion.

    By mastering the art of crafting exceptional burgers and cooking wild-caught lobsters to perfection, Burger & Lobster became a dining institution, drawing in food lovers from New York to Dubai, Singapore, and beyond.

    The result? Burgers toooooo good. Lobsters sooooo good. You’ll question your whole life after just one bite. Now, it’s Manila’s turn to get #OfficiallyObsessed.


    An Unapologetically Bold Dining Experience 

    With a modern yet welcoming atmosphere, a passion for top-quality ingredients, and a menu built on expertise and simplicity, Burger & Lobster isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a destination.

    Manila’s young professionals, food lovers, and trend-conscious diners will find themselves coming back, not just for the food, but for the experience that comes with every bite.

    Burger & Lobster at SM Aura delivers more than delightful meals but a laid-back yet luxurious dining experience that fits perfectly into Manila’s dynamic food scene.

    Whether it’s a long-awaited indulgence, a spontaneous craving, or a new go-to spot, every visit is designed to be an explosion of rich, bold flavors—each bite delivering pure, unfiltered satisfaction, because life’s too short for boring bites!

    Burger & Lobster will take you on an adventure with their dishes like The Burger, featuring 100% prime beef grilled to perfection in a brioche bun with their secret sauce; The Lobster, a whole Canadian lobster served grilled or steamed; and The Lobster Roll, a buttery brioche roll filled with succulent lobster meat and Japanese mayo,  crafted with their signature dedication to quality and bold flavors.

    Each plate promises a memorable and decadent experience, making it clear why this brand has become a global favorite.


    Join the Obsession!

    Manila has been hungry for something fresh, exciting, and obsessively satisfying—and Burger & Lobster is finally here to deliver. One thing is certain—once you taste Burger & Lobster, there’s no going back. Bite in, dress up, and get ready to #SERVE and be #OfficiallyObsessed.

    At SM Supermalls, we take pride in bringing the best of the world to Filipino food lovers—from first-to-market brands to groundbreaking dining experiences that redefine what it means to have it all.

    With Burger & Lobster’s arrival at SM Aura, we continue to curate a lineup of iconic global brands, offering one-of-a-kind culinary experiences for those who crave adventure on a plate.

    Don’t miss out on the obsession—visit Burger & Lobster at SM Aura, Ground Floor today!

    Stay updated! Follow @burgerandlobsterph on Instagram for exclusive content and sneak peeks. For more exciting first-to-market brands, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.

  • Experience Elite Automotive Craftsmanship at Hispano Suiza

    Experience Elite Automotive Craftsmanship at Hispano Suiza

    Hispano Suiza, the storied Spanish marque synonymous with bespoke hypercar craftsmanship, has launched its exclusive Design & Innovation Centre at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

    This strategic expansion solidifies the brand’s commitment to performance-driven innovation while offering an elite clientele an unprecedented, immersive ownership experience.


    Elevating Hypercar Ownership to an Elite Experience

    While hypercars are engineered for peak performance on the track, true high-performance engagement remains a rarity. Hispano Suiza is redefining this paradigm, creating a private trackside enclave where clients witness their vehicles undergo precision testing and fine-tuning in real time.

    The facility, located mere minutes from the Hispano Suiza Atelier, bridges the gap between bespoke customization and high-speed execution, offering select owners privileged access to the engineering and testing process.


    High-Stakes Engineering Meets Exclusive Client Access

    The centre serves as the permanent base for refining Hispano Suiza’s 1,000+ horsepower Carmen, Carmen Boulogne, and Carmen Sagrera models, with a dedicated engineering team optimizing aerodynamics, power delivery, and handling.

    Under the guidance of former Formula 1 driver Luis Pérez-Sala, these hypercars are put through rigorous track testing, ensuring uncompromising performance.

    Clients gain an unfiltered view of elite automotive craftsmanship—from bespoke engineering adjustments to high-speed track validation.

    Unlike traditional ownership experiences, where customization ends at specification sheets, Hispano Suiza’s approach invites clients to see their vehicle’s transformation from concept to high-performance reality.


    Strategic Implications for Investors and Collectors

    This move signals a calculated expansion of Hispano Suiza’s brand equity in the ultra-luxury automotive sector.

    By offering experiential ownership, the marque is not only elevating its client engagement but also increasing the desirability and long-term value of its hypercars in the investment market.

    With the global hypercar market projected to grow at an 8.5% CAGR, exclusive ownership experiences like this could significantly influence collector demand and resale valuations.

    For investors, collectors, and discerning enthusiasts, Hispano Suiza’s latest initiative represents more than just automotive excellence—it’s a glimpse into the future of high-end luxury ownership, where performance, exclusivity, and experiential engagement converge.


    Redefining Automotive Prestige

    Hispano Suiza’s presence at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya cements its position at the forefront of ultra-luxury performance engineering.

    For those who demand more than just ownership—a true, immersive connection to automotive artistry—this initiative offers unparalleled access to the very essence of high-performance exclusivity.

  • Don’t dismiss realme’s durable contender

    Don’t dismiss realme’s durable contender

    The realme Note 60 has launched, priced at an attractive P4,999, making it one of the most affordable durable smartphones available.

    This latest addition to the realme Note Series follows the success of the Note 50, which quickly became a top seller on TikTok Shop.

    The Note 60 is designed to withstand rigorous conditions, featuring exceptional resistance to scratches, drops, and bends.

    Realme conducted extensive tests on the device, including drop and knife scratch tests, showcasing its impressive durability.

    The phone also boasts an IP64 rating for dust and water resistance and has received a TÜV Rheinland High-Reliability Certification.

    Available in Voyage Blue and Marble Black, the Note 60 comes in two storage options: 4GB+64GB for P4,999 and 4GB+128GB for P5,999.

    To celebrate its launch, realme is offering a complimentary warranty extension for purchases made until October 31.

    Discounts are available through various online platforms, with prices reduced for early buyers.

  • Have you heard of PRUBabies?

    Have you heard of PRUBabies?

    Pru Life UK’s groundbreaking initiative, PRUBabies, has recently been recognized with prestigious Silver and Bronze Stevie Awards for Community Relations/Public Service Communications and Innovative Achievement in Diversity & Inclusion.

    In a bid to support parents and safeguard newborns against select infectious diseases, Pru Life UK launched PRUBabies, offering 175,000 free vouchers of PRUMedCare – Select Infectious Diseases coverage for infants aged 7 days to 11 months.

    This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on families by covering medical expenses related to Dengue, Typhoid, Measles, and Malaria.

    Jeresa Caranoo, a mother from Bantayan Island, Cebu, expressed her gratitude towards Pru Life UK for providing her child with free insurance protection. Her testimonial reflects the tangible impact of PRUBabies in empowering parents to secure their newborns’ health and well-being.

    The Department of Health’s advisory on the prevalence of infectious diseases, especially during the summer months, underscores the importance of initiatives like PRUBabies in raising awareness and offering financial assistance to affected families.

    Pru Life UK’s extensive distribution network, comprising a 42,000-strong agency force and collaborations with local government units, NGOs, and hospitals, facilitated the widespread dissemination of free vouchers across the country.

    Partnerships with organizations such as Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST), FirstGen Corp., St. Scholastica’s Formation House, and various Rotary Clubs and government entities enabled the reach of PRUBabies to underserved communities.

    In addition to providing insurance coverage, Pru Life UK conducted combined sessions on financial literacy, climate awareness, and health education in regions like Palawan, known for malaria cases.

    This holistic approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to empowering communities with knowledge and resources for a healthier and more secure future.

    Allan Tumbaga, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer at Pru Life UK, emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to making life insurance accessible to Filipino families, particularly newborns who deserve protection from birth.

    The availability of PRUMedCare – Select Infectious Diseases coverage through the Pulse app ensures continuous financial security for interested individuals.