7 Lessons to Embrace Timeless Style

Style has always been more than clothing; it is a reflection of identity, confidence, and personal philosophy. While trends come and go with every season, timeless style is about creating a wardrobe and presence that feels both authentic and enduring. It resists the pressure of fast fashion, focusing instead on pieces that speak to individuality and last through the years.

Lesson 1: Prioritise Quality Over Quantity

One of the most valuable lessons in achieving timeless style is learning to choose quality over quantity. A well-made jacket, a durable pair of boots, or a classic handbag can last decades, becoming not only a staple but a story. Timeless wardrobes are built slowly, with an appreciation for craftsmanship that can outlast shifting fashion cycles.

Lesson 2: Find Inspiration in the Past

History has always shaped style. From Victorian silhouettes to mid-century tailoring, fashion’s roots provide endless inspiration for modern wardrobes. Embracing elements of vintage fashion allows us to carry history with us, honouring the artistry of past decades while adapting it to today’s lifestyle. Discover unique pieces handpicked by the founder of the theplaincircle vintage, a curated shop specializing in sustainable and gothic-inspired fashion.

Lesson 3: Express Individuality Authentically

Timeless style is not about blending in; it is about standing out with authenticity. By embracing clothes that feel true to one’s spirit, style becomes an extension of character rather than a reflection of passing fads. This authenticity creates confidence, and confidence never goes out of style.

Lesson 4: Build a Wardrobe Around Versatility

Another lesson is the importance of versatility. Timeless wardrobes are filled with items that can be worn in multiple ways and across different occasions. A black blazer, a pair of tailored trousers, or a classic white shirt can transition seamlessly from work to evening, ensuring longevity not only in fashion but also in practicality.

Lesson 5: Embrace Sustainability as a Style Statement

True timelessness is found in sustainability. Choosing pieces that are ethically made, second-hand, or repurposed adds value to fashion that extends beyond personal style. By embracing slow fashion, every choice becomes a small stand against waste and a commitment to clothing that carries meaning.

Lesson 6: Master the Power of Accessories

Accessories often hold the key to transforming a simple outfit into a statement. A timeless scarf, a bold piece of jewellery, or a vintage belt can breathe new life into clothing you already own. These finishing touches allow style to evolve without the constant need for new garments, proving that small details carry significant impact.

Lesson 7: Choose Colours That Endure

Colour choices can define how timeless a wardrobe feels. Neutral shades like black, white, navy, and beige provide a classic foundation, while carefully chosen accent colours allow for personal expression. By curating a palette that remains harmonious, clothing becomes easier to mix and match, extending its relevance for years to come.

Defining Your Own Timelessness

The beauty of timeless style lies in its adaptability; it does not look the same for everyone. For some, it may be a collection of tailored classics; for others, it may be bold vintage statements or gothic-inspired details. The lesson is to move away from fleeting fads and instead embrace a way of dressing that feels lasting, personal, and deeply connected to who you are.

Five reasons why World Kitchens is the 'it' place to be

World Kitchens Chefs

Inspired by the comfort food of the world, WORLD KITCHENS is a one-of-a-kind, first-of-its-kind 5-star dining destination created by Singapore’s food and beverage guru Andrew Tan Hock Lai. With 15 show kitchens and international chefs specializing in unique cuisines, this giant full-table-service restaurant offers a variety of international dishes at affordable prices.

Five reasons why World Kitchens is the it place to be

Serving great food at a single table, and using AI technology for seamless ordering, World Kitchens redefines dining as a global culinary experience. For us Pinoys, food has always been a reason to come together. More than the flavors, it’s all about the people we share it with, the bonds built with every bite, the stories told, and the memories made. At World Kitchens in Gateway Mall 2, that spirit of connection meets a dining experience built for every kind of craving. With flavors from around the world, meals prepared fresh by chef-led show kitchens, and the freedom to enjoy it all at your own pace, it’s a place where everyone can have exactly what they want and share it with the people who matter most.

From the first bite to the last, here’s how World Kitchens makes every meal feel like something special:

1. Explore various international cuisines in one vibrant space.

World Kitchens brings together 15 chef-led show kitchens, each serving dishes inspired by the world’s most celebrated cuisines and beloved comfort foods. From Japanese fare like sushi and sashimi, to pizzas and calzones of Italy, and even to well-loved Filipino classics, everything’s here, all made fresh, and served on the same table.

At World Kitchens, the best of the world is just waiting to be discovered. You can mix and match flavors from some of the world’s most beloved cuisines to suit everyone’s craving, making it perfect for family reunions and spontaneous group dinners with the barkada.

2. Order and pay from your phone for a smooth, hassle-free meal.

Ordering here is designed to keep your focus on the experience, not the minutes. Just scan the QR code on your table to browse the full menu, place your order, and pay — all from your own phone, at your own pace. No waiting for the bill, no need to flag down servers.

For guests who prefer it, physical menus are available, and World Kitchens staff can provide a tablet or help connect you to Wi-Fi if needed.

3. Dine in a warm, nature-inspired space designed for comfort and style.

World Kitchens combines modern touches with inspirations from nature to create an ambiance of warm opulence. Designed by renowned Singaporean designer Dickman Tan, World Kitchens boasts of an open dining space that also features private nooks. Throughout the venue, plants, rocks, and wood are used as accents. Meanwhile, warm lighting and tasteful design elements are used to create a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. This harmonious approach to the restaurant’s design truly sets it apart from others, treating customers to an inviting and cozy dining experience. Live piano music fills the air every weekday night, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

4. Celebrate with loved ones in private, beautifully designed VIP areas.

Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or just a long-overdue meet-up with friends, World Kitchens has VIP areas for groups of various sizes. Some offer a sense of privacy without being fully enclosed, while others can host large parties.

Reservations are easy, just call (02) 8860-9799 or email wkreservations@aranetagroup.com to secure your spot and plan your celebration with ease.

5. Enjoy a great meal and everything else you need, all in one vibrant destination.

World Kitchens’ location in Gateway Mall 2 puts it at the heart of Araneta City, where a great meal can be part of a bigger day out. Here, you can attend mass at the nearby Sagrada Familia Church, catch a film at the World Kitchens Platinum Cinema, shop for essentials at the grocery, or take advantage of the city’s convenient transport links.

It’s also the perfect time to visit with the Special Culinary Festival, a weekday promo offering complete lunch sets starting at just ₱349 from Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each set combines an appetizer, main course, dessert, and drink, all crafted by World Kitchens’ roster of international culinary brands, giving diners a taste of its global variety in one value-packed experience. This special promo runs until August 22.

Learn more about World Kitchens and all the delightful offerings it has by visiting www.worldkitchens.com.ph.

REPERTORY PHILIPPINES takes young audiences on a trip down the rabbit hole with Alice in Wonderland musical

 

The ticket to the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland, the newest musical from Repertory Philippines, is a feast for the eyes and ears. This new musical version of Lewis Carroll's classic was based on the adaptation of Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman. It is a true work of art for families. Joy Virata and Cara Barredo are the talented directors behind this production, which is an over-the-top, tuneful journey that captures the very essence of Wonderland's delightful madness. The audience is taken to a world of bright colors, catchy songs, and endless surprises as soon as the curtain rises. The promised "mad tea party," the silly "flamingo croquet," and especially the lively "tap-dancing playing cards" are all done with such style and skill that they will amaze both kids and adults.

Repertory Philippines for Young Audiences' latest musical spectacle, Alice in Wonderland, is a visual and auditory feast for the senses. Adapted by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman, this new musical version of Lewis Carroll's classic is a true masterpiece of family entertainment. Directed by the talented duo of Joy Virata and Cara Barredo, the production is an over-the-top, tuneful journey that captures the very essence of Wonderland's delightful madness. From the moment the curtain rises, the audience is whisked away into a world of vibrant colors, catchy songs, and endless surprises. The promised "mad tea party," the whimsical "flamingo croquet," and especially the energetic "tap-dancing playing cards" are executed with such flair and precision that they are bound to leave both children and adults spellbound.

The show's success is a testament to the incredible cast that brings these iconic characters to life. The role of Alice, shared by Reese De La Vega Iso, Justine Narciso, and Cheska Quimno, is handled with a charming mix of curiosity and composure, making her a perfect guide for this chaotic adventure. The formidable Queen of Hearts, portrayed by Cara Barredo, Pinky Marquez, and Mayen Bustamante-Cadd, is both commanding and comically domineering. The musical’s eccentric Mad Hatter, played by Hans Eckstein and Gerhard Krysstopher, is a highlight, ensuring the infamous tea party is as wonderfully bonkers as it should be. The entire ensemble, from the frantic White Rabbit to the melancholic Mock Turtle and the mysterious Cheshire Cat, is brilliantly cast, filling the stage with fun and laughter.

Veteran actress Pinky Marquez returns on stage as The Queen of Hearts

Behind the scenes, the creative and production team deserves every bit of praise. Musical Director Phoebe Bitoon, Choreographer Stephen Viñas, and Set Designer Lawyn Cruz have created a world that is not only beautiful but also perfectly suited to the show's lively spirit. The costumes by Hershee Tantiado and Phillip Domingo are a work of art, and John Batalla's lighting design perfectly complements the fantastical mood. This production is a shining example of the dedication and immense talent present in Filipino theater.

Alice in Wonderland is running from August 23 to December 14 at the REP Eastwood Theater, Alice in Wonderland is a must-see for the entire family. It’s a spectacular show that proves there's no limit to imagination. So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets now!

Experience a world of colorful characters, mad tea parties, and unforgettable adventures. This is the perfect show for the whole family!

Book, Music and Lyrics by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman.

Directed by Joy Virata and Cara Barredo.

Repertory Theatre, 4th Floor Eastwood Citywalk 2, Eastwood City

August 23, 2025- December 14,2025

Saturdays at 10:30AM/Sundays at 3:30PM

Book your tickets now and get ready for a fantastical trip to Wonderland!

: DM @repertoryphilippines

: 09626918540 or 09669054013.

: marketing@repph.org or sales@repphil.org.

Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with The Manila Hotel’s Mooncake Box of Four

 

Mooncake box of 4

The Manila Hotel ushers in the Mid-Autumn Festival with the return of its highly anticipated, handcrafted mooncakes. A timeless delicacy symbolizing harmony and prosperity, these premium mooncakes make for the perfect gift to share with family, friends, and colleagues during the festive season.

This year’s refined selection features a variety of indulgent flavors: Single Yolk Red Bean, Single Yolk Pure White Lotus, Milk Golden Sand House, Black Sesame, and Passion Fruit.

EBO Box of 4 T&C

Each set is presented in an elegant commemorative box that pays tribute to the iconic façade of The Manila Hotel, making it a delectable gift and a timeless keepsake. The Mooncake Box of Four is priced at Php 3,888 nett. Guests may enjoy an early bird offer of 30% off until September 15, 2025, bringing the price down to only Php 2721. 60 nett. Regular selling price applies from September 16 to October 6, 2025. Pick-up of orders starts on September 16. The early bird offer is subject to terms and conditions. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-229154 Series of 2025.

To place orders or for further inquiries, please contact +632 8527 0011, +632 5301 5500, +63 998 950 1912, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

A ROSE FOR A ROSE: ROSÉ’S FIRST PUMA COLLECTION IS A PERSONAL TRIBUTE

 

After joining PUMA as a global ambassador and collaborator in 2024, Rosé now unveils her first full collection: PUMA x ROSÉ.

The momentous, monochromatic drop looks at the world through Rosé-colored lenses, blooming with personal references, culminating in a collection that is a creative embrace of Rosé’s personal taste and aesthetics. Oversized basics are paired with distinctly feminine designs and tailored elements that pull from PUMA’s history of sportswear designs, alongside a special “ROSIE” graphic wordmark, and two fresh takes on the PUMA Speedcat.

The campaign's ethereal visuals introduce the collection, bringing it into focus with dreamlike softness. Set against green pastoral backdrops, the images capture a nostalgic, unfiltered mood that mirrors Rosé’s poetic intent: quiet rebellion, honest expression, and everyday confidence. 

"This PUMA x ROSÉ collection is really special to me because it reflects so much of who I am, both on and off stage. I wanted every piece to feel like a quiet rebellion, something that empowers you to show up as your most honest, fearless self. We carried that same feeling into the campaign, which was all about capturing that raw, unfiltered version of me. I wanted it to feel like how I see myself without all the noise, and I think there’s something really powerful in that. We all have our own rhythm, our own signature, and when we embrace that fully, that’s when we feel the most real,” said Rosé. 

Following her Speedcat-powered roadtrip adventure, Rosé now presents her very own iterations of the racing-inspired silhouette. The Speedcat Ballet features pointe-inspired laces, while the Speedcat OG Premium comes with statement lacing details enveloping the upper. 

PUMA Speedcat Ballerina and PUMA Speedcat OG from the Rosé Collection

For apparel, the collaboration’s design ethos channels Rosé’s vision into an expression of sporty, streetwear-coded designs. Reinterpreting PUMA’s iconic track suits, the collection’s Oversized Track Jacket and Relaxed Track Pants bring a modern approach to legacy styles. Relaxed and roomy sportswear-inspired fits continue with the Half-Zip Jacket and Full-Zip Hoodie, in addition to the Mesh Top with a bold “ROSIE” graphic on the rear. A clever wink in the collection, the X-Small Duffle and Micro Grip serve as playful visual punctuation throughout the range, offering compact forms that add personality and proportion. 

PUMA x ROSÉ collection is available starting August 28, 2025, on PUMA.com, PUMA stores, and retailers.

Beat jet lag like a Pro

 

One hack to beat jet lag is to block off light with an eye mask.

Love the idea and experience of international travel, but can’t stand how it messes up with your sleep—and plans—as soon as you reach your destination? Take your cue from the people who constantly deal with jet lag yet manage to bring honor and glory (not to mention medals and trophies) to their country and sport: elite athletes. How do they do it?

“Travel, especially to where time zones change, affects our circadian rhythm, that internal clock in our body that tells us when to sleep and be awake,” says Maria Patricia Ann T. Puno, MD from the Neurophysiology and Sleep Disorders Laboratory of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “For athletes who find themselves in one state or country one day, then halfway around the world the next, it takes discipline and a few tweaks to their diet, training, and sleeping habits to not only conquer jet lag but come out on top of their game.”

In his competitive days, tennis legend Roger Federer beat jet lag by simply thinking steps ahead. “I almost forget what time it is in the place I left, and I live in the new time zone: try to eat at the right time, go to bed at the right time, and try not to cheat at those things,” he shared.

According to MakatiMed, these simple hacks work too:

Adjust your sleeping hours. Many athletes do this a week prior to their trip, according to Dr. Puno. “They wake up 30-60 minutes before they usually do, and go to bed 30-60 minutes earlier than usual. The next day, they rise 30-60 minutes earlier and turn in 30-60 minutes earlier, until their wake-up and bedtime hours are closest to their destination’s schedules.”

Make your surroundings conducive to sleep. US men’s rugby team member Lucas Lacamp listens to music to relax, wears an eye mask to block off light, and puts on noise-canceling ear plugs for peace and quiet. “Planes and hotels aren’t always comfortable and ideal for sleep, so you have to do your part,” says Dr. Puno. “Temperature is another way to ensure quality sleep. In your hotel room, set your air- conditioner between 15°C to 19°C.

Know when to use light. “If you arrive in the daytime, take a walk. Morning sun exposure signals your body to wake up,” the MakatiMed doctor suggests. “At night, avoid the use of smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. They emit blue light, which affects the natural production of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin, thus disrupting your sleep.” Irish artistic gymnast Rhys McClenaghan wears glasses with red lenses, which are effective at blocking 100 percent of blue light.

Watch what and when you eat and drink. “Heavy meals tend to make you feel sluggish and sleepy, so if you want to stay awake, eat light and focus on protein instead of carbohydrates. Also, skip stimulating coffee, soda, and alcohol in the first few days of your trip,” reminds Dr. Puno.

Take naps. While some athletes fight off the urge to nap because it affects their sleep at night, others feel reenergized for a few minutes of slumber. “In the days leading up to his double gold win in the 2024 Paris Olympics, gymnast Carlos Yulo was said to have taken a series of 15-to-20-minute naps—in the bus, after podium training, and before going to the competition area,” shares Dr. Puno. “If you must nap, take no more than a few minutes and this should not be too close to bedtime.”

Travel smarter. There are also ways to optimize travel to reduce jet lag. “If possible, book a morning flight so the long trip doesn’t interfere so much with your circadian rhythm. And when in the plane, adjust your watch to the time of your destination,” says Dr. Puno. “It conditions your brain to believe you should be awake or asleep, even if you’re still acclimatizing.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Integrating Life Story Work Into Residential Care

 

Life story work is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool in residential care settings. It involves gathering and documenting personal histories, memories, and experiences of residents to enhance the quality of care they receive. By understanding an individual’s past, care teams can create more personalized, empathetic, and meaningful support strategies that respect each resident’s identity.

The Value of Life Story Work

At its core, life story work is about connection. It allows caregivers to see residents as complete individuals, not just through the lens of their medical or care needs. For older adults, especially those experiencing cognitive decline or dementia, recalling past experiences can provide comfort, validation, and a sense of continuity. Sharing memories can help residents feel heard, respected, and valued, fostering emotional wellbeing and reducing feelings of isolation or frustration.

Care teams benefit as well. Life story work gives them insight into personal preferences, routines, and triggers, which can improve communication and reduce anxiety. Understanding a resident’s past hobbies, professions, or significant life events can inform daily interactions, recreational activities, and even meal planning. This level of personalization enhances the overall residential experience, making care more than just a routine—it becomes a shared journey of respect and understanding.

Implementing Life Story Work in Daily Care

Integrating life story work into residential care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start with simple conversations during one-on-one interactions or group activities. Encouraging residents to share stories about their childhood, career, family, or hobbies can provide rich material for life story documentation. Families can also play a key role by contributing photographs, letters, or anecdotes that help build a fuller picture of the resident’s life.

Once gathered, information can be recorded in formats that are accessible to staff, such as digital profiles, memory books, or personalized care plans. This ensures that all team members—from nurses to activity coordinators—have access to insights that can guide interactions. Regularly revisiting and updating life stories ensures that care remains dynamic and responsive to the resident’s evolving needs.

Benefits for Residents and Care Teams

One of the most immediate benefits of life story work is improved emotional wellbeing. Residents often experience a boost in self-esteem when their life experiences are acknowledged and appreciated. For those with memory difficulties, recalling significant events can trigger positive emotions and a sense of familiarity. It also encourages social interaction, as sharing stories often sparks conversations with fellow residents and staff, fostering a sense of community.

For care teams, life story work strengthens relationships and promotes empathy. Knowing what brings joy or comfort to a resident allows staff to respond in more meaningful ways, whether through activities, conversations, or small gestures. It can also help reduce challenging behaviors by anticipating triggers and creating tailored approaches to care. Essentially, life story work transforms caregiving from a transactional task into a relational, person-centered practice. For families and residents seeking a nurturing environment that values personal history, choosing a residential care home in Bristol can make all the difference in ensuring a life lived with dignity, connection, and meaning.

Creating a Culture That Supports Life Story Work

To make life story work effective, care facilities need to create a supportive culture. This includes training staff to listen actively, document information accurately, and incorporate personal histories into daily routines. Facilities can also designate memory corners, display photo albums, or host storytelling sessions that celebrate residents’ lives.

Collaborative involvement from families and community members further enriches the experience. When residents see their stories respected and remembered, it reinforces a sense of belonging and continuity. This approach aligns closely with the principles of person-centered care, where every individual’s history, preferences, and personality are central to their wellbeing.

Conclusion

Integrating life story work into residential care is more than a compassionate gesture—it’s an essential element of high-quality, person-centered care. By acknowledging the unique experiences of each resident, care teams can foster stronger connections, enhance emotional wellbeing, and provide care that truly respects individuality.

 

What Compassionate Support Really Looks Like in Practice

 

Compassionate support is more than simply meeting a person’s needs; it’s about approaching every interaction with empathy, patience, and respect. In care settings, this means recognizing each resident as an individual with a unique story, personality, and set of preferences. Instead of applying a one-size-fits-all approach, compassionate caregivers take the time to build genuine relationships, learning what truly matters to each person and tailoring support accordingly.

Personalization Makes All the Difference

One of the clearest ways compassionate support shows in practice is through personalization. Whether it’s encouraging someone to maintain a beloved morning routine or ensuring they can still take part in a favorite hobby, small moments of tailored attention create a profound impact. Care teams might keep notes on individual preferences, such as how someone likes their tea or whether they enjoy listening to a particular genre of music, so that support feels familiar and comforting.

Residents are more likely to maintain a sense of identity and independence when their interests and preferences are thoughtfully incorporated into daily care. By recognizing these details as essential to a person’s well-being, compassionate caregivers bring warmth into every aspect of support.

Active Listening and Meaningful Communication

True compassion begins with listening. Care professionals who demonstrate a willingness to listen without rushing allow residents to express their feelings openly. By being present in conversations, maintaining eye contact, giving someone the time they need to speak, and acknowledging their thoughts, carers create a safe space where residents feel respected and understood.

In practice, this might mean pausing during a busy day to sit with someone who is feeling lonely or engaging them in conversation about something that matters to them. Small gestures like these build trust and help residents feel valued.

Creating a Sense of Community and Connection

Compassionate support thrives in environments where community and connection are encouraged. Social interaction plays a vital role in overall well-being, and care teams that plan inclusive activities and opportunities for shared experiences help foster new friendships between residents. Whether it’s a group gardening session, a music afternoon, or a relaxed conversation over tea, shared time strengthens bonds and reduces feelings of isolation.

Simple acts, such as introducing residents to others with similar interests or encouraging them to take part in communal meals, go a long way in helping residents feel like part of a caring community.

Maintaining Dignity Through Respectful Care

Every aspect of compassionate support must be rooted in dignity. This means providing care in ways that are respectful and considerate of each individual’s privacy. Whether assisting with personal care or offering medical support, carers should always explain what they are doing and obtain consent. Giving residents choices and involving them in decisions about their own care helps them feel in control of their daily lives.

Respectful care ensures that support never feels clinical or routine but instead fosters a sense of mutual trust and understanding.

Adapting to Emotional Needs

Physical support is essential, but compassionate care also involves recognizing and responding to emotional needs. Some days, a resident may simply want someone to sit quietly with them; on others, they might need encouragement to join in with activities. Carers who are attuned to these changes adapt their approach to provide comfort and reassurance when it’s needed most.

Being attentive to subtle signs, such as a change in body language or tone of voice, allows caregivers to identify when someone may be anxious or upset and respond with kindness.

Embedding Compassion in Every Interaction

Ultimately, compassionate support isn’t reserved for specific tasks or moments; it’s embedded in every interaction. From greeting residents warmly each morning to offering small words of encouragement throughout the day, it’s the consistency of kind, thoughtful actions that makes compassionate care truly meaningful. For example, at a care home in Melksham, teams strive to make every interaction an opportunity to uplift and support residents in ways that honor their individuality.

Conclusion

Compassionate support in practice is a continual commitment to empathy, personalization, and human connection. It’s about caring for both the physical and emotional well-being of individuals, ensuring that each person feels seen, valued, and respected. When care is approached with compassion at its core, it not only meets needs but also enriches lives.

Take Big Leaps and Aspire More with PC-Like Performance and Nature-Like PaperMatte Display of the Sleek, Lightweight HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025), Arriving Soon in the Philippines

 

HUAWEI MatePad 11.5(2025)_Lifestyle KV

In a world that moves fast and demands more, HUAWEI introduces its latest tablet innovation to help take ambitions to greater heights, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025). This powerful, portable partner is built to match users’ pace and help them achieve their goals with PC-like experience, paper- like writing, and pro-level creation with the GoPaint app.

PC-Like Experience on the Go

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) is designed for the young go-getters. It transforms portable productivity by delivering seamless intelligent performance anytime, anywhere. The HUAWEI Smart Keyboard keeps things light yet powerful with lightweight, streamlined clip-on design. The detachable keyboard design supports both PC and Split forms to cater to users’ real-time needs. Its 1.5mm key travel makes typing smooth and effortless, thanks to its springy keys and ergonomic design. The keyboard also supports function keys for laptop-level ease of use.

The tablet changes the way users stay productive with its free PC-level WPS Office apps, which eliminates the limitations of the tablet version of the apps suite and has an intuitive interface similar to the PC version. The PC-level WPS Office suite is loaded with functional optimizations such as formulas for spreadsheets and dynamic animations for presentations. Paired with the HUAWEI Smart Keyboard, the PC-level WPS Office enables seamless switching between PC and tablet and empowers users to work smarter wherever, whenever.

The improved Floating Multi-Window feature makes multi-tasking easier than ever with PC-level navigation on the tablet’s immersive 11.5-inch display. It offers three window ratios, enhancing work or study sessions by allowing users to simultaneously view documents and jot down notes while researching on the web.

Paper-Like Writing, Reimagined

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) delivers a customizable, paper-free note-taking and creative experience with the free and upgraded HUAWEI Notes app. This works best with the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation), which makes screen-based handwriting feel smooth and seamless like writing on paper. The HUAWEI Notes app now comes with AI Handwriting Enhancement, which refines user handwriting into a cleaner, more readable style. The Resource Center allows users to personalize their notes with themed covers, papers, and stickers. The HUAWEI Notes app now also supports new brushes including 2B Pencil, Felt-tip Pen, and Calligraphy Brush to enhance the paper- free writing experience on the app.

Eye-Catching, Eye-Soothing, Natural-Like PaperMatte Display

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025)’s standout feature is the innovative PaperMatte Display, made possible by advanced nano-level etching and magnetron nano optical coating technologies. This resulted in astounding anti-glare and anti-reflective properties that ensure clear, vibrant display even under direct sunlight and brightly lit offices. The nano-level etching also provides special textures on the screen’s surface, which mimic the look and feel of writing and drawing on paper.

To reduce eye strain, HUAWEI engineered the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025)’s display using the new circularly polarized light technology, reproducing the behavior of natural light for softer and more evenly dispersed illumination. The PaperMatte Display has received certifications for its eye-soothing properties, including the SGS Low Visual Fatigue Premium Performance 2.0, TÜV Rheinland Circular Polarization, and TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free, ensuring eye safety and comfort in any scenario.

Beyond its eye-friendly features, the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) features a vibrant display with 2456 x 1600 resolution and a dazzling 600-nit peak brightness. It delivers sharper visuals for every kind of task, from reading and writing, to viewing and beyond.

Portability and Power in a Sleek, Streamlined Frame

HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025)_KV

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) packs a powerful performance in a sleek, lightweight build. Available in Violet and Space Gray, the tablet boasts a slim 6.1mm all-metal unibody that weighs only 515g. This lightweight design is crafted with precision engineering to make the frame thinner yet stronger while fitting in a larger battery.

Its massive 10,100mAh battery powers over 14 hours of high-resolution local video playback, while 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge recharges the battery to full in just 94 minutes. A quick 30-minute charge gives users hours of use, so users no longer need to worry about looking for an outlet to plug-in while studying or working outside. Accessories like the HUAWEI M-Pencil (3rd Generation) can now charge wirelessly with a one-click clasp to enhance convenience.

Pro-Level Creating Experience with GoPaint

The HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) is the first HUAWEI midrange tablet to feature the GoPaint app, HUAWEI’s exclusive painting app for its tablets. This offers a professional yet easy-to-use platform to allow budding artists and professional users to freely explore their creative streak. It features a wide range of brushes and lifelike textures, turning the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) into a true digital canvas. Paired with the HUAWEI M- Pencil (3rd Generation), the GoPaint app delivers a natural, immersive creative experience for users.

Elevate Every Task with Power and Innovation from the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025)

Prepare to achieve your goals with powerful PC-like performance and pro-level art creation with the all-new HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025), set to launch soon in the Philippines. Secure your HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) early by paying a PHP 500 deposit on the HUAWEI Online Store from August 18 to 28, and get PHP 1,500 off when you pay the remaining balance from August 29 to September 30.

Collect early-bird vouchers worth PHP 500 on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok. Grab early bird vouchers worth PHP 1,000 on the HUAWEI Online Store from August 29 to September 30.

Stay tuned for the official launch of the HUAWEI MatePad 11.5 (2025) this August. To learn more, visit your nearest HUAWEI Experience Store or check out HUAWEI’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

Keeping your food and drink safe from prep to plate

Always check for molds and weird smells before consuming food. Or better yet, when in doubt, throw it away. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Food poisoning may be associated with the hot summer months, given how bacteria thrive in oppressive temperatures. But in reality, consuming contaminated food and drink can happen anytime, anywhere—including at home.

“First off, many germ-laden dishes taste no different from unspoiled food, so there’s no way of telling if you have food poisoning until you experience the classic symptoms—nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, headache, and even a fever,” says Mark Paul S. Castillo, MD from top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

“Secondly, these symptoms don’t always present themselves immediately. Certain bacteria can trigger symptoms 30 minutes to eight hours after consuming contaminated food. Others, like the virus behind Hepatitis A, take days, weeks, and even months before symptoms appear.”

Food poisoning resolves within 24 to 48 hours, and requires nothing more from you but to ride out the vomiting and bum stomach. It’s best to hydrate with electrolytes and broth soup. Still, more serious cases could land you in the hospital for kidney failure, nerve and brain damage, and in rare but still possible situations, death.

Prevention is crucial to avoiding this most unpleasant yet avoidable condition. For MakatiMed, the goal is to ensure your food and drink are free of contaminants from start to finish.

PREP. 

“It’s all about cleanliness,” reminds Dr. Castillo. “Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling ingredients and cooked food. Wear disposable gloves if you have a rash or wound on your hand and need to handle raw ingredients. Chopping boards, knives, plates, pans, and other cooking utensils must also be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water, then wiped dry with a paper towel, before using them for the first time, then again on other ingredients, and just before you put them away.”

Raw ingredients like meat, poultry, fish, and seafood need to be rinsed well too, and separated, instead of sharing a single plate. “Use a brush to gently scrub some fruits and vegetables like apples, cucumbers, root crops, and squash and thoroughly rid them of dirt,” shares Dr. Castillo. “For leafy vegetables, rinse them under running water and use a salad spinner or paper towels to dry them.”

Dr. Castillo also advises keeping your kitchen countertop and sink clean with soap and water, then wipe with a paper towel or a clean dry rag. “Replace sponges at least once a week, as they can be home to E. coli and other bacteria. Washing them completely at the end of each day also helps.”

PLATE.

 Make sure food is cooked following the recommended time and temperature, and if you can, keep food constantly warm with chafing dishes. According to Dr. Castillo, “Consume hot food immediately, as leaving it in room temperature for two hours or more allows bacteria to grow.” Serve cold dishes in small amounts and only when they’re ready to be eaten. Keep the cold dish in the fridge or maintain its cool temperature with bowls of ice.

Make sure dishes, bowls, glasses, and utensils are clean or have been properly washed and dried before use. “And no double-dipping,” says Dr. Castillo. “Assign specific serving spoons, forks, tongs, and knives to dishes to avoid cross-contamination.”

KEEP.

Place leftovers in clean covered containers, keep in the freezer, and re-heat before serving. “Most people think that leftovers can live in the fridge forever. Best to consume them within 3-4 days,” notes Dr. Castillo.

Indeed, food in the fridge doesn’t always guarantee it’ll remain as fresh (or safe to eat) as the day you cooked it. “Check for molds and weird smells,” Dr. Castillo points out. “Or better yet, when in doubt, throw it away. It’s better safe than sorry.”

CCP National Theatre Live examines the performative self through Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest and Shakespeare's Hamlet

 

CCP NTL_The Importance of Being Earnest

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP)'s National Theatre Live returns to spark conversations on one’s self and society through special screenings of The Importance of Being Earnest and Hamlet this August. 

Presenting a comedic stage of false identities, the filmed stage production of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest premieres at Glorietta 4 Cinema 1 on August 26, 2025, at 6p.m. Meanwhile, Shakespeare's Hamlet will also revisit the disposition of a pretender on the same date and time, at Ayala Malls Vertis North and Ayala Malls Central Bloc Cebu.

The art of Bunburying

Max Webster, the director behind Donmar’s Macbeth and Life of Pi, directs the theater adaptation of the flamboyant reimagining of Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. 

A satire on Victorian social hypocrisy, the play follows the misadventures of two young men who roam the town under false identities. Jack (Hugh Skinner) and Algernon (Ncuti Gatwa) escape their social duties through the art of Bunburying—creating a second persona. The two take on the name “Ernest” in their pursuit of marriage. 

Under Webster's direction, deception arrives in vibrancy. A society's obsession with names and the legacies attached to these comes into light through satirical means. Whether the performative man succeeds in achieving his desires or succumbs to what is expected of him is for the screen to tell, but the art of performance already realizes the importance of one's truth.

This recent staging was performed from November 21 to January 25, 2025 at the Lyttelton Theatre. The three-act play premiered in 1895, and eventually published into a book in 1899. 

Perception vs. Reality

Portrayed by Hollywood A-lister Benedict Cumberbatch, Hamlet wrestles with what is and what appears to be in his quest for revenge. He feigns madness to discover those who reconstruct their truths to appear as something other than reality. As every individual performs in his eyes, the Prince of Denmark delivers multiple soliloquies, introspecting about lies as tools for sculpting truths. 

Directors Lyndsey Turner and Robin Lough ensure that this production of Hamlet conveys the real Shakespearean tragedy, disseminating the cathartic ultimatum: that the fallacies man performs eventually become his truths. 

Anagnorisis and the London Theatre Experience in the Philippines

The CCP National Theatre Live continues to bring renowned productions of classic dramas from the London stages to enrich Filipinos’ love and appreciation of the performing arts. First launched in June 2009, UK’s National Theatre Live is a groundbreaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre live from the London stage to cinemas across the United Kingdom, around the world, and now in the Philippines. Digitally filmed in high-definition quality, NTL films their plays in front of live theater audiences, but optimized for the big screen and made accessible to theater fans across the globe.

CCP NTL_Hamlet

Drama is an intimate collaborative form that inspires introspection until anagnorisis, the realization of one’s identity amidst various pressures. The Importance of Being Earnest and Hamlet are two of many fictions that dissolve into facts, underscoring the performative self as a crucial constituent of the real one. 

Regular ticket price is at Php300 in Makati and Cebu, and Php350 in Vertis North, with special ticket price for students at Php150, upon presentation of a valid ID. Visit the ticket booth or avail now at www.sureseats.com. 

To get the latest updates on CCP’s National Theatre Live and other events, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more news.