Race for a cause

There are many reasons why people run. One of them is to help better the lives of others.

When HSBC celebrated its 135th anniversary in the country, fitness and running enthusiasts sprinted to the Fort to join the HSBC 135 Run. It was also a fundraising event for Hands On Manila’s “Galing Mo Kid!” program.

HSBC Philippines president and CEO Tony Cripps said, “The HSBC 135 Run reinforces our commitment to the Philippines, and allows our friends and customers to celebrate our shared success, all for a good cause.”

Johanna Garcia, HSBC SVP and head of group communications and corporate sustainability, added, “HSBC has been working closely with Hands On Manila Foundation, Inc. (HOM), a non-profit organization that provides flexible volunteer opportunities for community service in Metro Manila. Earlier this year, we launched Kultura Kids, an enhancement to HOM’s flagship program, Galing Mo, Kid!, wherein volunteers accompany high-achieving public school students to various heritage sites and museums, cultural tours, performing arts events and participated in various workshops. The goal is to equip them with a deeper knowledge, understanding and appreciation of Philippine art and culture and make them proud of their Filipino heritage.”

Johanna said about 2,500 people signed up for the race, which originally only targeted a maximum of 1,500 participants. She said, “We had to expand registration to accommodate all the people who wanted to join the run. We didn’t anticipate this groundswell of support, but we’re certainly thrilled by it.”

All participants received a race kit, sports bottle, finisher shirt, baller band and a limited-edition singlet designed by Rajo Laurel. The race categories included the 3k, 5k, and 10k for adults and two 100-meter dash events for children ages two to five, and five to nine, respectively.

Tony later added, “It was a great day with lots of fun activities for everyone. And this celebration of HSBC’s history, success and contribution to the community here in the Philippines was so memorable that we’ve decided to turn it into a yearly event. So, watch out for it next year!”

Tony then turned over to president of HOM Wynn Wynn Ong a check of over P1.6 million, representing the entire proceeds generated by the HSBC 135 Run.

Kiehl’s opens in Mall of Asia

People take it seriously when an invitation to grace a launch comes from a hair and skin care store. After all, proper grooming and beauty regimen are a must to bring out confidence in both men and women.

When the iconic New York brand Kiehl’s Since 1851 opened its second store at SM Mall of Asia, guests trooped to the branch with excitement. Like the opening of its first store in Greenbelt 5, those in attendance at its store in SM MOA were treated to a shopping experience. They were given “Kiehl’s cash” to spend and “buy” products at the boutique as customer representatives were ready to advise the shoppers on all their skin and hair care concerns.

The Kiehl’s Since 1851 boutique at the Mall of Asia is even bigger than the one in Greenbelt. Quirky New York elements such as “Mr. Bones,” a skeleton replica, and other Kiehl’s signature staple are in front of the store. Guests, as usual, signed on “Mr. Bones.”

The event was hosted by senior business development manager for Kiehl’s Lenard Tiongson, along with L’Oreal Philippines managing director Luc-Olivier Marquet.

Kiehl’s Since 1851 is located at the second floor of the Main Mall of SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City (tel. no. 659-7698) and at the Ground Floor of Greenbelt 5, Makati City (tel. no. 728-9561).

Dream night

When it comes to smooth jazz, 106.7 Dream FM is a favorite among the music enthusiasts. Mari Lagdameo, who heads Dream, is always on the lookout for fresh music to add to Dream’s already extensive play list. He is also always dreaming up of very fun parties.

This year marked the sixth anniversary of 106.7 Dream FM. The station is dubbed as “My Comfortable Choice” and “Smooth Jazz Authority.” The celebration was replete with an anniversary bash at Republiq in Resorts World Manila.

The night started early with cocktails as Funk Avy, Nicole and Carlo David, and the Henry Katindig Band sampled some hits and fresh cuts from Dream’s play list. It was then followed by a “Relive the ‘80s” party, which featured music by Overdrive band and DJ Boyet Almazan.

No need to dream on as Dream FM will surely continue to be around for many more years to come.