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This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading! Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
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International logistics and shipping firm DHL Express announced upcoming price adjustments for its services in the Philippines, set to take effect next year.
In a statement on Friday, Sept. 27, Nigel Lockett, DHL Express Philippines country manager, said the average price increase will be 5.9 percent, effective Jan. 1, 2025.
Next year's adjustment is higher than the 4.9 percent hike implemented on Jan. 1, 2024.
Lockett said that this adjustment is necessary to sustain DHL Express’ commitment to provide reliable and efficient services in light of ongoing global challenges.
“We are committed to delivering stable and dependable services globally despite the ongoing impact of geopolitical dynamics and supply chain disruptions on the logistics landscape,” Lockett said.
“With the annual price adjustment, we can continue to invest in our network to enhance its resilience and adaptability, ensuring consistent support for our customers’ businesses regardless of external circumstances,” he added.
DHL Express adjusts its prices on an annual basis to factor in inflation, currency fluctuations, and administrative costs associated with regulatory and security measures.
National and international authorities routinely update these regulations across the more than 220 countries and territories served by DHL Express.
“Depending on local conditions, price adjustments will vary from country to country,” DHL Express said.
This October, Metro Manila will host two major Oktoberfest celebrations, blending Bavarian tradition with modern hospitality. One will take place in the South at Newport City, and the other in the North at Solaire Resort, both promising a memorable experience for festival-goers.
Oktoberfest at Newport World Resorts
Newport World Resorts is preparing for its second Oktoberfest, which has quickly become a signature event at the lifestyle destination. Scheduled from Oct. 24 to 26, the festival will take place at Hilton Manila, where the ballroom will be transformed into a Bavarian beer hall. Long wooden benches, festive buntings, and checkered tablecloths will recreate the traditional Munich atmosphere.
“At Newport World Resorts, we take pride in creating experiences that are as authentic as they are enjoyable. This year’s Oktoberfest is no exception. We’ve gone all out to bring you the very best of Oktoberfest, right here at the country’s premier lifestyle and entertainment destination,” said Newport World Resorts Chief Marketing Officer David Jorden during the media launch.
Guests can look forward to classic Bavarian draft beers from Weihenstephan Brewery, the world’s oldest brewery. The event will also offer a grand spread of traditional German dishes, including pork bratwurst, frankfurters, crispy pork knuckle, and chicken schnitzel, served with sauerkraut and spaetzle. Desserts will include apple tarts and the fluffy, caramelized Kaiserschmarrn.
To keep the festive atmosphere lively, Austria's AnTon Showband will provide live entertainment throughout the three-day event. Tickets are priced at P4,900 nett for early birds until Sept. 30, and P5,400 nett from Oct. 1 onwards.
Oktoberfest at Solaire Resort North
Up north, Solaire Resort North, in partnership with the German Club of the Philippines, will hold its Oktoberfest celebration on Oct. 19 and 20 in the Grand Ballroom. Unlike Newport’s event, Solaire’s Oktoberfest will span two days, with the second day catering specifically to families.
Guests can expect a variety of traditional German dishes, including Munich-style sausage salad, grilled pork sausage, roasted pork knuckle, and beef goulash, all paired with Weihenstephaner beer, the official sponsor.
“Our Oktoberfest is the most authentic, so you better choose us over the others,” joked Michael Scheile, program host and Oktoberfest committee member, during the Solaire media launch, adding a lighthearted competitive spirit to the event.
The first day of Solaire’s Oktoberfest will focus on adults, offering free-flowing beer, hearty German fare, and live music from Bavarian Sound Express, a band known for traditional Oktoberfest tunes. The second day will be family-friendly, featuring activities like a bouncy castle, face painting, carnival games, and a German costume photo booth, making it a perfect outing for families looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Solaire is also offering exclusive room packages for attendees, with a 20% discount on the Bed and Breakfast rate, available for bookings until Oct. 12. The room packages are valid for stays between Oct. 8 and 14. Tickets for Solaire’s Oktoberfest are available on the event’s website.
With Newport World Resorts and Solaire Resort North offering their own unique versions of Oktoberfest—one in Pasay and the other in Quezon City—there’s something for everyone in Metro Manila this October.
Jasmin is set to compete at this year’s Miss Globe pageant, where she aims to clinch another crown for the Philippines on Oct. 15, 2024, in Albania.
Bb. Pilipinas Globe 2024 Jasmin Bungay revealed that it was a tough choice to depart from Dubai and join the Binibining Pilipinas pageant.
Jasmin remembered making a significant life decision during a public send-off event organized by the Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. (BPCI) at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2 on Sept. 18.
"I think the biggest hurdle that I had to face before Bb. Pilipinas was deciding whether it was time for me to join the national pageant, Binibining Pilipinas," said Jasmin during an interview.
Jasmin added: "I spent five years in Dubai. I spent there building my career, building it from scratch. I started from zero. Then, I was finally in a position where I was already comfortable regarding my lifestyle in Dubai.
"I am 26, and this chapter in my life is incomplete. If I forgo this pageant, I would spend the rest of my life regretting why I didn't do it.
"It was such a difficult decision, but it paid off. I am so glad I made that decision, and it also serves as a message to everyone that if your dreams mean more to you than money, fame, and anything else, then it's worth risking everything.
"You can see that in my life, and now I am crowned Bb. Pilipinas Globe, I left my life there and am enjoying it here. I began it with a bang!" the beauty queen said.
Jasmin also thanked her supporters in her current pageant journey.
"I am overwhelmed. I'm mixed up with a lot of emotions. But on top of that, I feel grateful. To my Binibini family and sponsors, thank you for all the support and for allowing me to paint my journey.
"To the pageant media, you are half the reason why the Philippines is a powerhouse in pageantry," she said.
Jasmin's loved ones and supporters, members of the press, other Binining Pilipinas queens, and pageant enthusiasts gathered at the spacious activity area in Araneta City's Gateway Mall 2, Retail Asia's New Mall of the Year awardee in 2024, for a special tribute and celebration before the international pageant in Albania next month.
A former supply chain and logistics worker in the Middle East and a former teacher with a degree in Mathematics, Jasmin is a proud OFW adept at balancing corporate work with the modeling world.
She thrives on the excitement of travel and the buzz of gatherings, which she believes further deepens her global view and understanding.
Amid her busy schedule, Jasmine's heart beats for a cause close to home – the empowerment of overseas Filipino workers. She stands as a beacon of support, advocating for their rights and championing their contributions to the global community.
She considers pop superstars Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift as her role models.
Jasmin is set to compete at this year’s Miss Globe pageant, where she aims to clinch another crown for the Philippines on Oct. 15, 2024, in Albania.
She aims to follow the victories of Binibini sisters Ann Colis (2015) and Maureen Montagne (2021) in the prestigious pageant. Last year, at Binibining Pilipinas Globe 2023, Anna Lakrini finished as second runner-up.
During the special presentation, Ma. Lourdes Chiong De Leon of Quezon City and Denzel Royce Chang of San Juan City were chosen as Darlings of the Press.
Celebrating a decade of the Filipino-Chinese culture and values, a new era has emerged as the newest batch of Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Philippines 2024 takes on the challenges of becoming the ambassador and ambassadress of the Fil-chi community.
During the press presentation held at the Glass Ballroom in Okada Manila, last Sept. 13, 12 male and 11 female hopefuls, came from various schools and backgrounds, ranging from athletes to professionals strut the runway as they represent their community.
As part of the remarkable celebration, reigning Miss Chinatown 2023 Jercy Raine So, also made an appearance during the press presentation. Showing off her elegant beauty in the crowd, Jercy also took the time to piece advice on the aspiring candidates of MMCP 2024.
"As cliche as it may sound, my advice to you is just to be yourself and enjoy the moment because people, will love who you are. As a Filipino-Chinese, we're unique and authentic, we all have values, and we saw the best of both worlds in the Philippines and Chinese culture," Jercy said.
During the special presentation, Ma. Lourdes Chiong De Leon of Quezon City and Denzel Royce Chang of San Juan City were chosen as Darlings of the Press.
Here are the official candidates of Mr. and Ms. Chinatown 2024.
Female candidates
Eliza Nicole Adviento - Antipolo
Krizle Ann Leung - Baguio Benguet
Shi Jiajia - Binondo Manila
Khane Mikkel Ko - Dasmarinas
Jemme Zavdielle Tan Del Rosario - Las Pinas
Maya Hong Sales - Makati
Alicia Logarta - Manila
Cindy So - Ongpin
Jamila Clarise San - Pasay
Maria Lourdes Chiong De Leon - Quezon City
Allyson Jade C. Flores - Valenzuela
Male candidates
Wilburt Hans Yan Wei - Antipolo
Darwyn Albert Tanya Mendoza - Binondo Manila
Jefferson Rufino - Cabanatuan
Jude Gamalie T. Del Rosario - Las Pinas
Kimho Cotaoco - Manila
Laurenz Ding - Pasay
Robert Lawrence Guido - Pasig
Wilhelm Hendrick Tan Wei - Quezon City
Denzel Royce M. Chang - San Juan
Juan Luis A. Zandueta - Rizal
Ralf Lim - San Miguel Manila
Neron Zach Teng Mendiola - Sta. Mesa
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Philippines 2024 Candidates in photos:
Female
Male Candidates
Mr. and Ms. Chinatown welcomes its new president
Continuing her father legacy, Vanessa Agbayani-Lo was also appointed as the new MMCP President during the event.
"I'm very honored to come forward and continue the legacy of my father Wilson Ngo-Agbayani, his vision has not only shaped our organization's success but also its lasting cultural impact on the Filipino-Chinese community. I am committed to continuing his vision, and ensuring that our organization continues to inspire," Ms. Vanessa said.
Embarking on a new era of MMCP, the organization now upholds a new motto, "Rooted in Culture, Elevated by Elegance."
According to Ms. Vanessa, this new batch of candidates will be the visual example of their motto.
"This batch of new candidates is the new era, we will show you our purpose in a very elegant way, and we will stay to our culture, we will continue to promote our Filipino-Chinese community," she added.
Aside from the newly appointed MMCP President, the organization will be migrating to a more digital aspect as it gives them an idea of how the candidates can establish their online presence as well as discover how they can use the digital age as their platform.