Cley’s Food Products: From Kitchen Innovation to Digital Success with TikTok Shop

Cley’s Food Products: From Kitchen Innovation to Digital Success with TikTok Shop

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

What began as a labor of love in a home kitchen has blossomed into a thriving success story for Cley’s Food Products, thanks to the transformative power of TikTok Shop. Founded by Mia Velasco-Reyes, Cley’s journey began as a small home-based business with a single product: a crab paste recipe, crafted during the early months of her child Cley’s life. This humble beginning has since evolved into a testament to innovation and resilience in the digital age.

“I discovered TikTok Shop in October 2022, and it was a revelation. What started with a simple idea and a heartfelt product has grown exponentially. We’ve gone from fulfilling one or two orders a day to handling thousands,” said Mia. “TikTok Shop helped us a lot because our sales were low before. Now, our sales have increased by almost 60-70%, and we can ship to any part of the Philippines.”

The partnership with TikTok Shop has been instrumental in Cley’s rapid growth, propelling the brand into the mainstream. Furthermore, the surge in sales has boosted the business and created employment opportunities, transforming Cley’s from a single-employee operation to a thriving enterprise with a dynamic workforce that can reach up to 15 employees during peak order times.

Leveraging TikTok Shop's ACE Indicator System

One of the critical success factors for Cley’s has been its utilization of TikTok Shop’s ACE (Assortment, Content, and Empowerment) indicator system. This comprehensive approach has enabled Cley’s to optimize its product offerings, enhance content creation, and participate in empowering campaigns and advertisements. According to Mia, the ACE system has significantly helped Cley's improve its performance and increase its sales.

Cley’s has leveraged the ACE system to provide exclusive discounts, ensure product availability, and optimize its product presentation. For instance, during the recent 6.6 sale, Cley's offered a 30% discount, which contributed to a 16% increase in gross merchandise value (GMV) for its crab paste. The brand's commitment to aligning its product assortment with market trends, such as launching its version of chicken pastil, has further propelled their success.

Content has also been a cornerstone of Cley’s strategy on TikTok Shop. By partnering with over 18,000 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and engaging in extensive live selling sessions, Cley's significantly increased its brand awareness and sales, collectively driving 49% of the brand's GMV. “Through the help of affiliates, live selling, and short videos, we’ve been able to introduce our products to a broader audience,” Mia explained.

Engaging in Impactful Campaigns and Growth Initiatives

Cley’s participation in TikTok Shop’s Buy Local, Shop Local campaign has provided valuable exposure and growth opportunities. The brand has also strategically invested in shop advertisements, resulting in a 35% increase in ad revenue and a remarkable return on ad spend (ROAS) of 8.71. According to Mia, “These campaigns and advertisements offer us guidelines and support that are crucial for small entrepreneurs like us. It’s a blessing to be part of TikTok Shop Philippines."

Looking ahead, Cley's plans to leverage TikTok Shop’s ACE indicator system to sustain its growth. By continuously aligning its product assortment with market trends, optimizing content through live selling and affiliate partnerships, and engaging in empowering campaigns, Cley’s aims to maintain its upward trajectory.

“I believe in hard work, perseverance, and integrity. By staying true to these values and leveraging the tools provided by TikTok Shop, we’re confident in our continued success,” claimed Mia.

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Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc. Receives ISO Certification for Environmental Management Systems

Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc. Receives ISO Certification for Environmental Management Systems

Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc. marks a new sustainability milestone with its latest ISO 14001:2015 certification. This highlights the Company’s dedication to integrating effective environmental management practices into its operations.

“We are thrilled to receive this new certification,” stated Mr. Mark Anthony Mariano, Pacific Cross Philippines Project Lead. “This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable workplace and reducing our environmental footprint. It is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication, who continuously strive to implement eco-friendly practices in the way we do business.”

The ISO 14001:2015 standard specifies requirements for an effective environmental management system (EMS). By adhering to these guidelines, Pacific Cross ensures it is minimizing environmental impact, complying with applicable laws and regulations, and continually improving its sustainability efforts.

Pacific Cross has undertaken several initiatives to meet these standards, including reducing single-use plastics, conserving energy, promoting paperless transactions, implementing digital platforms, a tree planting program, improving garbage segregation, and a continued partnership with Waves for Water on filtration systems. These efforts not only contribute to a healthier environment but also foster a culture of sustainability within the organization.

“This change is a commitment to our community and the planet,” added Ms. Chi del Prado, Regional Project Lead. “We believe that sustainable business practices are essential for our Company's long-term success and future generations' well-being.”

These efforts are in keeping with Pacific Cross’s commitment to continuous improvement. For the last three years, Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc. has also qualified for the ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management Systems highlighting their goal of providing quality service to customers. 

As Pacific Cross continues to lead in the insurance industry, this development reinforces its dedication to responsible and sustainable business practices. The Company remains steadfast in its mission to protect not only its customers but also the environment, setting a standard for others in the industry to follow.

About Pacific Cross Insurance, Inc. 

Pacific Cross is one of the leading medical and travel insurance providers in the Philippines. For more information, visit www.pacificcross.com.ph.

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MakatiMed Nurses Introduce IGNITE Initiative at Sigma’s International Nursing Research Conference

MakatiMed Nurses Introduce IGNITE Initiative at Sigma’s International Nursing Research Conference

Monday, August 12, 2024

 

Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), through its Nursing & Patient Care Services Division - Center for Nursing Education, Advancement, and Research (CNEAR), participated in the 35th International Nursing Research Congress of Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI or Sigma) on July 27 in Singapore. 

The presentation, titled "IGNITE Initiative: Harnessing the Power of Collaboration and Innovative Learning in Building Competent Nurses Globally," showcased MakatiMed’s pioneering approach to nursing education. The presenters included MakatiMed Senior Nurse Educator Brigitte V. Garcia, RN, CLDP, CLSSYB; Nursing Youth Partner Laarni C. Florencio, MSN, RN, CNL (Founder of The Thinking of You Campaign, USA, and MakatiMed partner on IGNITE in 2023); and MakatiMed Senior Program Manager for CNEAR Joshua Jaime P. Nario, MA, RN, CHA, CLDP, CLSSGB. 

In response to the pandemic's unprecedented challenges—shrinking resources, budget constraints, and the emigration of skilled nurses—the IGNITE Initiative was conceived to address these issues through collaborative partnerships. This project provided essential educational experiences that many healthcare organizations struggle to sustain. Initially aimed at a network of hospitals in the Philippines, IGNITE’s scope expanded globally through a partnership with the Thinking of You Kindness campaign, engaging over 4,000 attendees worldwide. Participants from the Philippines, USA, UAE, UK, Asia, and beyond praised the transformative teaching methods, including gamification and interactive activities, which facilitated a cross-cultural exchange of practices and knowledge. 

Sigma, the world’s second-largest nursing organization, plays a crucial role in advancing global nursing practices. The 35th International Nursing Research Congress, themed "Sharing Insights, Advancing Care: Disseminating Nursing Research and Evidence for the Future," provided a platform for MakatiMed to share their groundbreaking initiative. 

“The presentation profoundly impacted nurses, health workers, and all attendees by inspiring and motivating them. It equipped participants with new knowledge and skills, particularly in emerging healthcare trends, advanced clinical skills, and leadership development,” Nario states. "It was an honor to be selected for an oral presentation at Sigma," Garcia added. “Overall, the event fostered a strong sense of dedication and a proactive approach to enhancing healthcare practices among nurses.” 

The IGNITE Initiative demonstrates MakatiMed’s dedication to addressing global healthcare challenges. By participating in the Sigma conference, MakatiMed contributes to the shaping of the future of nursing, ensuring that nurses are well-prepared to deliver high-quality care wherever they may be. 

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AIA Philippines Introduces New Product for Retirees and Seniors

AIA Philippines Introduces New Product for Retirees and Seniors

Sunday, August 11, 2024

AIA Philippines, formerly Philam Life and one of the country’s largest life insurance companies, recently launched a new product ideal for those who are starting to save for their retirement later in life. Whether their goal is to secure oneself or to have a guaranteed sum passed down to their loved ones, the life insurer’s new offering provides protection as one gets older.

“There is a commonly held notion that, beyond a certain age, it’s too late to get insurance,” shares Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer at AIA Philippines. “We want to change that mindset. It’s never too late to start prioritizing yourself and your family, especially with a product like AIA A-Life Prime.”

Financial security for today and tomorrow

AIA A-Life Prime, a product payable in just two years, benefits for both plan holders and their families, standing as a valuable solution to aid the country’s growing number of nearly 10 million senior citizens. At the end of the second year, policy owners will start receiving cash payouts equal to ten percent of their policy’s minimum face amount, especially advantageous for those in retirement. These will be given out every other year, providing assurance of regular disbursements to cover expenses or act as savings. AIA A-Life Prime can be purchased by individuals up to age 70, and provides coverage until the policyholder reaches the age of 100.

On top of the payouts, there is opportunity to receive more cash benefits through potential bonus dividends, which, while not guaranteed, can serve as additional funds when available. There is also a death benefit amounting to 200 percent of the plan’s face amount, or the total premiums paid less the cash payouts released (whichever is higher at the time of claim). For policyholders who reach age 100, a lump sum maturity benefit of 200 percent of the face amount will be given. 

“The need for protection is constant, so it is important for us to ensure that we make our products accessible to customers at any life stage,” adds Henson. “We aim to be with our customers wherever life goes, so they can have the peace of mind needed to live healthier, longer, better lives.”

Those interested in availing an AIA A-Life Prime plan can contact an AIA Life Planner or visit the AIA Philippines websitefor more information.

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MVP Group’s DigiCo invests in Bayad, driving digital financial inclusion in PH

MVP Group’s DigiCo invests in Bayad, driving digital financial inclusion in PH

PLDT Inc, Manila Electric Company (Meralco), and Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC)’s DigiCo has agreed to acquire a 10% interest in CIS Bayad Center, Inc. (Bayad) to help accelerate the country's shift to digital payments.

Bayad, formerly known as Bayad Center, is the pioneer in the outsourced bills payment collection service in the Philippines. Collecting for more than 400 private and government institutions into its robust system, Bayad is currently used by over 120,000 major retail establishments, neighborhood stores, as well as leading fintech and electronic money institutions across the country.

“Since revolutionizing outsourced payment collections in the Philippines 27 years ago, Bayad has remained a pillar of financial inclusion. We bridge the gap between consumers and businesses by providing accessible, reliable, and impactful payment solutions. Our success is a testament to the unwavering trust placed in us by billing institutions, government agencies, payment channels, and the Filipino public. We are humbled by DigiCo's confidence in our vision to empower Filipinos financially. Together, Bayad and DigiCo look forward to building a future that fosters not only the digital and financial well-being of the MVP Group, but of the entire nation,” shared Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer.

DigiCo Chief Commercial Officer Kat Luna-Abelarde underscored, “DigiCo plans to leverage its expertise and resources to support Bayad’s growth trajectory while exploring and unlocking synergies in the MVP Group. This is the latest milestone on our journey to drive new, innovation-led growth, and is aligned with the MVP Group's support for the Government's overall digitalization push, including financial inclusion for Filipinos across the nation."

DigiCo also invested in Multipay Corp. (Multipay), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Multisys Technology Corp., (MTC).

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Discover a New Way of Living at lyf Cebu: Where Every Stay is a Colorful Experience

Discover a New Way of Living at lyf Cebu: Where Every Stay is a Colorful Experience

Carrying the Ascott Limited name and vision in Visayas, lyf Cebu City is a dynamic destination where guests can gather with friends or like-minded individuals for both business and leisure purposes. Located in the heart of Cebu City, lyf Cebu offers an innovative and colorful approach to urban living, providing a flourishing community atmosphere that enhances every aspect of the guest experience.

Cebu City, known as the “Queen City of the South,” is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich historical heritage, stunning beaches, and a thriving business district. Its strategic location in the Central Visayas region makes it an attractive destination for both local and international travelers. Whether you are drawn to its cultural landmarks, diverse culinary scene, or booming economic opportunities, Cebu City offers a perfect blend of work and play, ensuring an unforgettable stay for all visitors.

“The Ascott Limited recognized Cebu's potential as a burgeoning economic and tourism hub.” said Joycelyn Agsaway, the Ascott Limited’s Director of Operational Excellence for the lyf brand. “With its robust economic growth, thriving IT and business process outsourcing sectors, and increasing influx of both domestic and international tourists, Cebu offers a promising market for our serviced residences. By establishing a presence in Cebu, we aim to cater to the growing demand for high-quality accommodation among business travelers and tourists, thus reinforcing our commitment to expanding our footprint in key cities across the Philippines.

lyf Cebu stands out with its array of state-of-the-art facilities designed to meet the needs of modern travelers. Upon arrival, guests are greeted at the Say Hi check-in counter, where the property’s friendly and trained staff ensure a seamless and personalized check-in process, making guests feel immediately welcomed and at ease. 

The property prides itself on its customization and wide selection of rooms to fit the diverse needs of its guests. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, lyf Cebu offers a range of accommodation options that can be tailored to your preferences. From cozy studios to spacious multi-bedroom units, each room is thoughtfully designed with modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and vibrant décor that reflects the dynamic spirit of Cebu. Guests can choose from various room configurations to suit their stay, which include rooms for solo travelers to those traveling in groups. 

For those staying for business or bleisure purposes, lyf Cebu features vibrant coworking spaces equipped with high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, and plenty of natural light, providing the ideal environment for productivity, creativity, and collaboration. 

Bond, lyf Cebu’s social kitchen, is another highlight of the property. It is a communal space where guests can cook, dine, and socialize. With modern appliances and ample seating, Bond encourages guests to connect and collaborate regardless of their diverse backgrounds and professions, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie through food. 

In addition to these core features, lyf Cebu offers a variety of other amenities designed to enhance the unique guest experience. The Hangout (Mezzanine) provides a relaxed setting for guests to unwind, network, and share stories about their lives. This area is perfect for informal meetings, casual conversations, or simply enjoying a good chat. Guests wanting to stay healthy and maintain fitness while away from home can do so at Burn, lyf Cebu’s social gym. With its range of equipment and fitness classes, Burn helps guests stay active and healthy during their stay. Finally, Dip, lyf’s swimming pool, provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing guests to relax and recharge.

"At lyf Cebu City, we curate a vibrant living experience that goes beyond conventional accommodation,” said lyf Cebu City’s Residence Manager, Rey Vergel Mulat “Our uniquely designed social spaces, community events, and personalized services ensure guests enjoy a colorful lyf experience, fostering connections and creating memorable moments throughout their stay."

At lyf Cebu, every stay is designed to be a colorful experience, both literally and figuratively. The property features an eye-catching thresher shark mural, one of the largest outdoor murals in the Philippines. This stunning artwork not only adds vibrancy to the urban landscape but also celebrates Cebu’s rich marine biodiversity. Inside, guests are greeted by original sculptures by Filipino artist Leeroy New in the Say Hi area, further enhancing the colorful and dynamic atmosphere. These vibrant elements create a visually stimulating environment that perfectly complements lyf’s emphasis on social living and community engagement.

Every day at lyf Cebu is a vibrant celebration of life and adventure. The colorful environment ensures that there is never a dull moment, making each day worth waking up to. The thresher shark mural and Leeroy New's sculptures set the tone for a lively and engaging experience from the moment you arrive. The artistic and energetic ambiance perfectly guides guests to the vividly brilliant display of origami Thresher Sharks, showcasing a rainbow of paper sharks throughout the property. Guests of all ages are invited to experience swimming with the sharks through the inflatable pool that will be installed throughout the area of the display. The dazzling display of colorful papercrafts looks to bring home the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for “the largest display of origami sharks.” The attempt for the title, to be made on the 29th of August, immortalizes the property’s commitment to raising awareness and educating its guests on the precious endemic life of the local waters. 

Staying at the property means being immersed in an atmosphere where you can feel like you can do anything. With a plethora of activities and events, there’s always something exciting happening. From fitness sessions and cooking classes to cultural workshops and social gatherings, lyf offers endless opportunities to engage with the local culture and fellow travelers. Whether you’re exploring the city’s attractions or participating in on-site events, each day brings new adventures and connections.

Life at lyf Cebu is unmatched and unique, offering guests a chance to experience Cebu in a way that goes beyond the ordinary. The property’s colorful environment represents its commitment to providing a dynamic and enriching stay. Guests can wake up each day with a sense of anticipation and excitement, knowing that a day filled with discovery and joy awaits. The flourishing social living concept ensures that every moment is infused with energy and positivity, making your stay at lyf Cebu a truly colorful experience.

If you’re looking for a culturally immersive experience outside the Metro, lyf Cebu City is currently open and ready to welcome guests from all walks of life. Guests can now book their stay via this website.

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Limitless Possibilities: PFIP Pride Summit 2024 Sets New Standards for Inclusive Corporate Cultures

Limitless Possibilities: PFIP Pride Summit 2024 Sets New Standards for Inclusive Corporate Cultures

The Philippine Financial & Inter-Industry Pride (PFIP) proudly hosted the 2024 PFIP Pride Summit—the foremost workplace Pride conference in Asia—last July 30 to 31 at Shangri-La at The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Manila. 

With the theme "Limitless: Inclusion Beyond Horizons," the 7th Pride Summit showcased the importance of LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the business sector, underscoring the collective vision for a truly safe and inclusive future that propels LGBTQ+ talents to new areas of excellence. Industry leaders, allies, and advocates from corporate Pride networks and progressive organizations all came together to explore strategies and approaches for fostering inclusive corporate cultures.

Pride Summit Key Highlights

The summit explored the connections between economic impact and corporate diversity. The keynote speech, "The Economic Case for LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in the Philippines,” outlined the financial benefits of inclusive practices, highlighting how diversity drives innovation and profitability. "Building a Diverse Talent Pipeline Through Inclusive Hiring Practices'' discussed countering hiring biases to ensure diversity, while "A Balancing Act: Understanding and Overcoming the Complexities of Intersectionality," powered by Accenture, provided insights into promoting intersectional programming to avoid losing focus on the unique lived experiences of different minority groups.

Looking into executive leadership and advocacy, the PFIP CEO Round Table and keynotes by Dominic Arnall, Liz Jacobs, and Carl Cervantes focused on the economic benefits of LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the cultural foundations of allyship in the Philippines. Meanwhile, the Embassy of the Netherlands, a staunch ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, encouraged companies to support equal rights beyond their boardrooms.

Exploring the roles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in a future-ready workforce, "Age Is Nothing But A Number: Best Practices for Engaging a Multigenerational Workforce" offered strategies for integrating diverse age groups for better team dynamics at work. "Leveling The Playing Field: Disability Inclusion in the Workplace" discussed mechanisms and investments to ensure equal opportunities for PWD talents.

The summit concluded with the second season of the vibrant and entertaining Lip-Sync Lalaparuzza, reinforcing the message of inclusivity and acceptance.

Join PFIP Today!

The 2024 PFIP Pride Summit highlighted the undeniable business advantages of LGBTQIA+ inclusion, setting new standards for corporate cultures and inspiring attendees via compelling cases for diversity, innovative strategies, and success stories shared in the two-day event. 

Beyond the summit, PFIP encourages companies to leverage insights gained and implement inclusive practices within their own organizations. To achieve this and to further drive change alongside a network of forward-thinking leaders, join PFIP today and contribute to fostering an inclusive corporate environment for everyone.

Visit the PFIP website at https://www.pfip.com.ph/join-pfip. For sponsorship opportunities, email secretariat@pfip.com.ph.

 

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