Shining Bright: CHARO CORDIAL and MADDOX JEWELRY

Took a trip way east to Marikina City to visit the physical showroom of Maddox Jewelry. We got to talk to Madame Charo Cordial, the viral online seller, entrepreneur and businesswoman who made her small venture into a gold and diamond empire that it is today. 

She had very humble beginnings. Brought up in a small town where farming was the premier industry, her parents had her take up Agricultural Engineering in college. During the pandemic, she just had the the opportunity to delve into jewelry (among her other passions), and that's where Maddox Jewelry started. When we met her, her demeanor was very warm and welcoming. With her fascination for all things gold, she got so busy these past few years garnering not only a huge clientele but celebrities, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. The difference between her and the other online sellers is that she's got a physical showroom in Marikina (AZDM Building) where she conducts appointments for those who want to see the jewelry before they purchase it. 

Here's what we saw there!

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We asked her about making investments on jewelry and what is the best time to do it and she said "There's really no BEST time to do it but NOW. As you may know, gold value is increasing over the years and if you don't get it early, you won't see the value grow. I've seen several of my clients who purchased gold and diamond pieces in the past and in a few years, the value is now 5 times of what it was then."

She adds "Jewelry is not only for women, but men too. We have several pieces that are unisex especially the classic designed ones that can be worn by men or women. Aside from that, we have celebrities like Mark Herras who got earrings with diamonds in it. (Tried to find it on display but they said it's all sold out!) We have them in different colors. We have blue diamonds, green diamonds, something that would fit your personality. We'd gladly accommodate you here as we have people who could assist you to choose the right sparkle you need for your jewelry."

Here's a bit of our talk with her that evening:

As you may have heard, her clients are mostly other jewelry sellers that source most of their wares from her. She also wished for a few A list celebrities to collaborate with her since she also does content on TikTok and Facebook. 

Her Facebook page is her only selling platform, and streams are regularly done live and deleted right after because most of the sales are done only during livestreams. If you're interested, go follow their page and watch out for schedules, it's mostly from 6pm to 12am and they're quite keen on helping entrepreneurs to start their own businesses. If you've been wanting to start your own collection, they have people to help you at their Marikina office. 

Their showroom is pretty full most of the time, it might be wise to ask for appointments through their contact numbers there. I'm off to buy a few very soon. Remember as she says, the time to invest in jewelry is now!

Super nice and very humble, she's shining bright indeed. Thank you and congratulations Ms. Charo! Here's wishing you could help more people and continued success in the business! 

DIMSUM TREATS Opens Newest Store at Samson Road Caloocan

Dimsum Treats has been everywhere, and there's a new branch that just opened at the front of University of the East Caloocan Campus, and STI along Samson Road, Caloocan City. I'm no stranger in this area because I've spent quite a number of years finishing my engineering degree. Like any student, I try to make sure my allowance would last a week because if I spend too much, I'll be hungry over the weekend by force LOL. Students here know a deal when they see one, and I'm glad I got to see this new Dimsm Treats branch open so they could have choices other than the usual carinderia fare (not that there's anything wrong with it.).

This place offers dimsum favorites but at a fraction of chinese restaurant cost. They have Special Siomai, Meaty Mushroom Siomai (a bit earthy), Chinese Chicken Siomai (lighter than pork), Fried Sharksfin Dumpling (if you prefer the crunchy exterior), Pork and Quail Egg Siomai (which I ate loads of), Japanese Siomai (which was ordered by a lot of people while I was there), and the best seller Premium Pork and Shrimp Siomai. They packaged these with rice too, even with Yang Chow Rice versions if you love bits of veggies and chorizo on your plate.  They also have a really good Pork Chop which I would liken to some of those famous ones in Chinatown because they taste like it.

Premium Pork and Shrimp Siomai

Fried Sharksfin Dumpling

Pork Chop Meal which they'd gladly slice up for you!

Now if you live a bit far from Samson Road and want a dimsum fix, they have an official website where you can order and save a lot rather than ordering via food apps. Just head on to dimsumtreats.com and get your personal favorites. They have those that are already cooked, even have them in frozen packs so you can take it elsewhere and just heat it up when you get there.

It didn't last a few minutes when I placed it on the dinner table because as attested by family at home, these variety of Siomai just tasted fresh, just like it was taken out of the steamer.

So if you're in the area, go have your Dimsum Treats in this branch at Ma. Cristina Building's ground floor. They have a place to dine in and can fit a few people. As for me, I'll be back there for the Mushroom Siomai and Porkchop soon.

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Congratulations to Dimsum Treats Caloocan! This one is good!

Affordable Coffee IS Possible with Great Taste Dark Latte

I've been a fan of coffee since I've had it with rice. No joke lol.

These days, I'd say I love the convenience of just getting them off the shelf and taking it ultra cold from the refrigerator before I do something at work. Surely, everyone would have had a habit of doing that if it wasn't super expensive because as you know, the ones out in the market are usually pricey.

Great Taste knows you need coffee when you need it. So at this day and age, they're giving you the options you deserve. Dark Latte for flavor, and a price that you wouldn't resist, because this bottle of Great Taste only costs Php 20.

This is inspired by cold brew, and has a strong but creamy flavor. It also is very handy, easy to put in the fridge, could be a better daily drink. Go check out Great Taste's social channels to know more about it. I've tried this from a convenience store and loved it. It's your turn!

Globe Launches GFiber Prepaid: Because They Know, "Kaya Mo Yan!"

It's certainly a good day to actually see innovation right before our eyes. At the Globe Tower this morning, Globe Telecommunications Inc. announced the launch of a new product called GFiber Prepaid. It's the most affordable, accessible, fast and reliable internet connection from their group that can be availed with a prepaid line. You can order this through the Globe One app by downloading it off the Google Play store and choosing GFiber on the offers listed (costs Php 1499 upfront for the modem-router). To those who are still procrastinating of getting a second line like me, this is certainly perfect because the documents you need to present... are non existent, no actual tie ups with the service provider, as long as you do load it up without expiring in 6 months, then you're good.

They also have it in 30mbps with unlimited data and the thing you need to choose is the duration. For Php 299, you can get unlimited data for 7 days, for Php 649 you can do the same for 15 days, and for Php 999 (my personal choice) you get unlimited data for 30 days, which is very affordable if you compare it with mobile data or the usual postpaid lines from other providers. This was a well thought out execution of what to offer Filipinos because they really did think about the hindrances in getting internet connection in the country. With this, it's going to change a lot of things especially in homes, small offices and businesses around the country. 

They taught us how fiber optic connections work, think of it as light containing data that travels fast inside a fiber. They split it up for other users and efficiently does the job its supposed to do. They also showed some clips they use to terminate a line and connect as an injector to boxes outside and at home. Here's some scenes from this morning's event!

 

Globe CEO Ernest Cu says "We here at Globe support your digital lifestyle and we hope this democratizes access to fiber especially in this market. For studies, business, entertainment, all at home we prefer fiber. In this new reality, we strive to bring game changing products and having fiber at home is such a better choice in service. When we allowed GCash do financial services and democratized it through the app, we want to make sure people can afford the services and enjoy what we offer in Globe. Up to 60 percent of households still don't have internet connection, because most could not afford it. They don't want to be held in a contract, and people want that flexibility. This is our business, aimed to uplift Filipino lives. This is why making this accessible is important. People need wifi, data, have it installed and give commissions to agents. Removing this and offer at an attractive price point, we are introducing GFiber Prepaid!"

Thanks to Ms. Nicole Paler who got a shot of us during the event!

There was a part of the event where I was able to talk with the host Ms. Neri Naig about my experience using the Globe GFiber Prepaid line. Installation was fast, even if I rescheduled it because I had an event on the date that I initially decided on. They were even at my home early and asked my availability if it was okay to install it lunch time. I also got to talk about the speed because out of the several days I tested, it was constantly around 29-31 mbps, which they promised to be at 30, quite impressive. I may have just found my ideal backup line that doesn't break the bank and does work when I need it.

You may be thinking of getting a fiber line for your home, your small business, your TikTok family member, or online selling business, this works great, affordable and I can even play a few games when I'm not doing any work. Go try the new GFiber Prepaid today and take advantage of fast speeds it could give you without going over budget. Those kids learning at home actually need this most, so they don't suffer from the shortcomings of mobile data.

I'm still using mine, and you should try it out (they check if there are lines available in your area too!). Yes, kaya mo now!

Marian Rivera Glows Like a Pro with Blanc Pro

It looks like things are really looking beautiful over at Blanc Pro, a new brand under the Beautéderm Group of Companies. They have highly effective skin products made even affordable, but still promises it still retains its quality.

The Blanc Pro products include the Milk Whitening Soap, Phyto Emerald Moisturizing Soap, the Milk Body Wash, the AHA Body Wash, Sakura Body Scrub, the Clarifying Toner, the Exfoliating Charcoal Whipped Foam and Vita Complex Sleeping Mask (my personal favorite because it smells like cucumber). The Toner boosts collagen production and gently exfoliates, so you get younger looking and softer skin. It has a cooling effect. The Milk Whitening Soap on the other hand fades discolorations, shrinks enlarged pores so you get a brighter complexion. The soaps are intended to be used on the face. The Phyto Emerald Moisturizing Soap won't get you dry skin. It also smells a bit like seaweed for me but it has cucumber on it.

Ms. Rei Anicoche Tan also shared her story, on how she was able to become a successful girl boss despite life's challenges and presented it to the media.

Beautederm President/CEO Ms. Rei Anicoche Tan says "Today is a special day, I can't tell you how much I wished for this day to happen. I had big dreams, hoping to sell products from my home, and I was not alone. Beautéderm is honored to become one of the leading beauty brands in the country, hard work and being kind was always our secret. I'm very happy to share with you today that we are launching our sub brand Blanc Pro. Please, welcome our official Blanc Pro endorser Ms. Marian Rivera. 

Ms. Rei Anicoche Tan also had Beautederm/Blanc Pro dealers spend time on stage with Marian Rivera.

Heard on the sidelines how everyone was at awe on how gorgeous Marian Rivera Dantes is upon seeing her in person. It was the same thing that happened when I interviewed her years back!

Here's Marian's interview with the press, please enjoy!

Marian is officially endorsing the Blanc Pro brand and her current favorite JEJU WHITE Honey Berry and Blooming Dale lotions. She's quite obsessed with it and can finish a bottle quite quick, and she shares how she also sometimes secretly put it on Dingdong Dantes too. The Jeju White Honey Berry smells like crushed berries, I'd suggest you get both if you want to experience what Marian uses personally. Yes she had a hand in formulating this and tried it out before it was released in the market.

Ms. Rei also gave advice about products that are out in the market, you need to make sure they are effective and are of good quality. You are after all investing in your skin, and Blanc Pro could do you good in your journey!

Budget Friendly Infinix Hot 10S Says GAME ON!

Well, it looks like Infinix is going to make your payday a little better as they bring their recently launched gaming phone the Hot 10S to an even more attractive price. Shopee is having their Payday Sale this coming June 15th and with that, they're partnering with the retail app so they'll have their own Infinix Super Brand Day on June 15-18, 2021.

This phone has a MediaTek Helio G85 processor which can handle most of your favorite games, a 6.82 inch HD+ screen so you can see the whole picture and watch countless movies on your entertainment library. The phone comes in two variants, one is 4GB+64GB and the other has 6GB+128GB so you do have tons of apps that can run at the same time and never worry about storing your photos and videos if you need to.

Armed with a 48MP camera, 2MP lens for depth and AI lens, it can take great photos near or far. The 8MP front cam is ample for your lovely selfies, it's got fingerprint unlock and can charge 10W so it's quite fast. The battery is a whopping 6000mAh, so you've got juice all day and never worry about getting those priceless moments captured when you need to. Now go arm yourself today if you're in a need for a gaming buddy, and say game on!

Then again, I've never seen this yet perform. I'll see if I can get a review unit handy.

SAMSUNG Outs Two Entry Level Phones Galaxy M02 and M12

The Samsung Galaxy M02 and the Samsung Galaxy M12

Looks like Samsung is going to be giving consumers a LOT of choices this year. Recently, they launched 2 new entry level phones in the market and we've gotten to test out one of them, the Samsung Galaxy M12. The other one they launched is the Samsung Galaxy M02. 

Here's our first impression of the new Samsung Galaxy M12 on video:

The Galaxy M12 comes in Black, Blue and Green. It's got a 6.5 inc HD+TFT display, an Octa Core 2GHz Exynos 850 Processor, comes in 4GB and 64GB storage. You can also expand it to 1TB on a separate micro SD card and enjoy hours of social media, streaming and gaming as its got a 5000 mAh battery. It also has Quad rear cameras featuring a 48MP main cam, 5MP ultra wide, 2MP Macro and 2MP for depth of field. The front camera is an 8MP, so you can still take awesome selfie shots with apt amount of details. The phone also has got 15W fast charging capability, a finger print scanner on the side and dolby atmos audio. I have had the privilege of editing photos, videos, recording them as well and it performed at par/even better than other entry level phones on this price range. It did run Mobile Legends and Call of Duty Mobile on it, I've enjoyed several minutes of games before I started browsing social media channels on it. 

The more affordable Samsung Galaxy M02 on the other hand carries a Quad Core MT6739WW processor. It also got a 2GB RAM and 32GB storage for all your photos and videos. It comes in Black, Blue and Gray colorways and has dual back cameras that have 12MP main and 2MP for macro shots. It also has a 5MP front camera which is ample for selfies and taking videos for socials. Currently, the prices for these two land on Php 7,490 for the Samsung Galaxy M12 and Php 4,490 for the Samsung Galaxy M02.

Samsung also has an exclusive #MakeYourMove sale on Lazada so if you prefer the Galaxy M12, it would be best to get it from there. The Galaxy M02 on the other hand can be bought in Samsung partner stores like MX MemoXpress Online, Shopee, Abenson, Gizmo Central, Galleon and Samsung.com. There's lots of things Samsung is introducing soon, perhaps more AIOT devices? Smart homes? They're just starting!

Changing Entry Level Standards with the vivo Y12s

The access to really good smartphones is getting a lot harder these days and the quest of finding one that's powerful, stylish and affordable is becoming rocket science. But don't fret my fellow phone crazy people because our friends from vivo came out with the vivo Y12s, an entry level phone that's set to impress and perhaps, change the standards of smartphones in this price range.

In the looks department, it's colors are very attractive and are called Glacier Blue and Phantom Black. Like vivo flagship phones, this also has side mounted finger unlock, a 6.51-inch Halo FullView Display for those games and movies plus a 5000mAh battery which can make your phone last the whole day of usual calls and internet activity. Best of all, it doesn't break the bank. It only costs Php 6,499 which if you think about, if it carries all these parts and features, is a great deal.

In the power department, it's got a Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 processor and 32GB 3GB RAM storage and memory. The 13MP and 2MP camera still takes impressive shots and 1080p HD videos which is still good for vlogs you plan to also record. The 8MP selfie camera will keep your social media activity on fire if you're raring to have content published, yes it can do that too.

If you wish to have one, the vivo Y12s is available in vivo stores nationwide and online on Lazada and Shopee. There's also packages with memory cards included so you can opt for that too. You can purchase it here and use vouchers if you prefer. 

 Don't say I didn't tell you!

Price Down on TECNO Spark 6 Go 64GB+4GB

A day of good phones being marketed a lot lower on price, then gets price even lower, how can that not be good news no?

 The TECNO Spark 6 Go 64GB+4GB is now priced at Php 4,999 from its original price of Php 5,490. This phone made waves a couple months ago as it carries pretty good specs but made all ultra affordable. If that wasn't enough, they even made a markdown on price; though people still would be able to enjoy a lot of things with it. First off, the 6.52 inch HD Resolution Screen would be good for viewing photos, videos and playing lots of games. The AI Dual Unlock Feature makes everything secure so you can use your fingerprint or face to unlock the actual phone. Aside from that, it's got AI Beauty Mode and 18 AI Scene Detection feature so when you are taking selfies, you would be sure to get the perfect ambiance and look to go with it. The 5000 mAh battery will make sure you have juice that would be able to last a couple days instead of just the whole day of ordinary use. It's also got Audio Share wherein it would be able to connect to connect to 3 bluetooth speakers at the same time, or if you would choose, can connect to 2 bluetooth headsets if you would want to get more music heard in different parts of your house.

 This particular phone comes in two varieties, the other one which is TECNO Spark 6 Go (KE5) which comes with the 2GB+32GB memory is pegged at Php 3,990 while the Spark 6 Go (KE5K) mentioned earlier comes with a 4GB+64GB memory. If you do fancy it, get more information about the phones via TECNO Mobile Philippines on Facebook or their official website www.tecno-mobile.com/ph because everything about Tecno is all there!

The Good with the Tecno POVA Gaming Phone

I've been using the Tecno POVA these past few weeks and it's been quite a nice experience. It's been Tecno's gaming phone and it hasn't failed me on COD which relatively uses ridiculously high graphics, yet it didn't get the device hot like in some pricey phones I've used in the past. Mind you, this isn't in the mid range priced level of smartphones and if you think about it, it would have been okay to see it with lower spec parts on it, but they didn't shortchange in the MediaTek Helio G80 Chipset it uses. It also uses a 6000mAh battery which can last you the whole day. Now imagine how many hours of gaming that would be right? Well, let's just say I do play a couple of rounds of COD with it and use social media on a regular basis but still have more YouTube time with it at night. 

This also costs Php 6,999 which means it is way cheaper than what you think. For what it's worth, you can play games, use it for work or educational purposes and perhaps a few hours of entertainment while you are stuck at home. I took the liberty to unbox it for you, here you go!

Now I wanted to actually see what how the cameras would fare because amongst all its features, that's the thing I am a little worried about, but it did quite fair in real life, no actually, I even see it better at night time video shots than more pricey ones I've tried recently. 

Again, this is my experience with the Tecno POVA. For the price, I felt it was worth it. If you're interested, go to the Shopee app and try and get one if it isn't sold out yet. I'm seeing it run out quite quickly. Must be something good with it, I bet people are going to buy this because of how it handles games. 

It's a good deal!

There's a BRIA for Everyone

I am not alone when I say I want to live in my own house, with my own family, and be in a community that would help them get the education, fun and experience they need. Affordable housing these days isn't as easy as it seems especially when they get you to shell out huge down payments and monthly amortization cutting an arm and a leg when you need it for other things like food and water, your everyday needs.

One of the biggest affordable housing developers in the country offers prices that go Php 1897.00 a month which makes it possible for blue collar workers, construction people, teachers, OFW's and those starting a family to get their own home in major cities of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. 

You can visit their sites and choose to live at Urdaneta Pangasinan, Paniqui Tarlac, Magalang and San Fernando Pampanga, Mariveles and Hermosa Bataan, GenTri, Trece Martires and Indang Cavite, Balayan and Lipa Batangas, Plaridel, Malolos, Sta. Maria, San Jose Del Monte and Norzagaray in Bulacan, Teresa, Binangonan and Baras Rizal, Calauan, Calamba and Sta. Cruz, Alaminos and Bay Laguna, Pili and Iriga in Camarines Sur too.

If you are from the Visayas and Mindanao area, don't fret because they also have properties available in Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, Calbayog in Samar, Ormoc City in Leyte, Cagayan de Oro, Balingasag and Ginoog in Misamis Oriental, Manolo Fortich and Valencia in Bukidnon, Tagum, Panabo and Carmen in Davao del Norte,  Davao City and Digos in Davao del Sur, Kidapawan in North Cotabato and GenSan in South Cotabato. These are guarded and gated communities too so you know your family is safe even if you're out of the country. 

Every BRIA home comes with a community Basketball Court, Play and Recreational Areas so you can have fun even if you don't leave the place. Square footage is apt, easy to pay with bank financing or PagIbig Fund so you do have choices. 

There is indeed a BRIA for everyone! 

The Next Gen Accessory Store BASEUS

Where do you get your phone accessories these days? I'm like a hodge podge of different things so I get them from cheap online stores and I end up destroying them after a few days LOL which means I do spend a lot because I don't get the ones that are of premium quality. It's why I adore places like Digital Walker because I love everything that's there. Lo and behold, they've got BASEUS now, a worldwide known brand that will be in separate stores. This will still be under the Digital Walker group of CEO and head honcho Charlie Paw.

Baseus is a tech accessory brand from Shenzen and is available in 8 different countries including Korea, UAE, Australia and now the Philippines. This is officially their first flagship store. Their product designs are heavily awarded by IF Design Awards and is known for their car chargers, multifunction cables, car mounts, flash drives, wireless chargers, power banks, phone cases and a whole lot more.

They will also be giving huge discounts to their very own Baseus Backpack Power Bank Case (7300 mAh) and will give it for 990 pesos instead of 1,790 which is it's original price. Go visit the Baseus store in Trinoma today! It's now open! You may also get details about it at Facebook.com/OfficialBaseusPH so go!

KUMAGCOW

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Ken Xin Da Releases Affordable, Shock, Weather and Water Proof Phones in the Philippines

I must admit, I didn't know the brand Ken Xin Da before this event. They just actually launched a few days ago at posh Sofitel Manila and did it in a grand way. The stage was set and arranged to mimic Olympia, complete with Greek gods and goddesses holding what seems to be new mobile phones that I personally haven't seen before. They're set to conquer the Philippine market with an unbelievably low priced phones that are perfect for those who find function, fun and protection from the elements. What do I mean? Let's just say the literally put one of their phones underwater!

Here's what happened during the show!

Ken Xin Da Mobile Phone Launch
Posted by Kumagcow on Sunday, November 22, 2015

Aside from that, they've also got some small fancy phones that looks like cars. There's also one designed specifically for women, it's a flip phone that turns into a car too. I've seen some of the handsets only cost from a few hundred bucks, to just a little over 3 thousands pesos. Now imagine if this actually lands on stores. That only means there's no reason anymore to NOT actually own a smartphone. Best of all, they offer something really different at these price points and I'm very impressed about the Ken Xin Da.

This is the KENXINDA Flattop W3. It's a very cheap mobile phone which is part of their line called Proofings W3. It's dual sim, a little chunky, but it's still considered a small mini sized cell phone in this part of the world. It's a Waterproof Mobile Phone which means it can stand the elements. It's designed to withstand accidental falls, temperatures and even to the point of getting it submerged. Now imagine taking this to your mountain travels where it could experience bumps, coldness and moisture in the outdoors. It'll still survive that because as you can see on the photos above, they already put this phone on water and it still displays, it still works.

I tried it out for size and took out the content of the box. My first problem was just how to make this work. There should be a place to put in the simcard but I was thinking of a way to open it on the back by flipping things, but none of them seem to budge on the edges. I didn't read the manual because I thought it was easy, then I found this lot. It's got 1800 mAh for batteries so you can stay here if you need to.

See that thing in the middle? It's a small screw driver that fits perfectly on the slots on the back of the phone. Apparently the phone is sealed shut so the only way you can whisk the back away from the phone is to unscrew it first. It's convenient though after that because it's double sim. It runs on Android even when it felt like Java when I operated it the first time. This is a 2G phone so you only get the practical parts of the smartphone. It doesn't have wifi so you might want to consider that in your purchase. The back camera is 3 Megapixels, it also autofocuses, has Bluetooth connection, a built in flash, Dual Sim ports, ability to Email, has an FM Radio and GPS. It also has a loudspeaker which you can use when you need to talk. It also comes with a charger and earplugs.

Screw it back in and you're good to go. Now remember, you only got a 176 x 220 screen but it's basically enough to see on mobile handsets. However, like the other Ken Xin Da handsets, it does the job. There's also a couple more things on the phone which I still find basic, a thing that non smartphone users would appreciate if they are using this as an "entry level phone" of some sort and take it to mountaineering trips or just plain sports events that require a tough phone that can withstand drops, bumps, and still work. Or maybe they would be fine having  powerbanks too when the need arise.

Speaking of which, they've got the Ken Xin Da Power Bank. Just like the phone above, this one has got the same waterproof concept implemented. Imagine when it rains, when you need to walk to the sea or just plain jumping into the pool. I remember a friend who pushed me into a pool once, he didn't only get my phone wet, he also kinda almost had me worried. I don't know how to swim LOL! So if this one is a good option for the powerbanks that are still in the market, this one's totally different since it's got that ability.

Congratulations to this new player in the market. You will definitely shake the mobile phone market with your low price points and specs. I even think I saw a 300 peso phone somewhere during the launch, but you would have to see it yourself by sending inquiries on the channels below. Congratulations Ken Xin Da!

For more information about their products:

Ken Xin Da

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Visit their official website

http://www.kenxindaphilippines.com/