A Historic First: Filipina Leader Hosts Landmark Global Image Consulting Conference in Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

For the first time in its 35-year history, the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) has elected an Asian president, breaking barriers in the global image consulting industry. At the helm of this historic milestone is Olen Juarez-Lim, a trailblazing Filipina entrepreneur, industry icon, and founder of OJL Consulting Group. As the newly appointed 22nd president of AICI, Lim is set to make an even greater impact by bringing the prestigious organization’s first-ever global conference to Asia—right in the heart of Manila.

From April 24 to 27, 2025, the Makati Shangri-La Manila will serve as the grand stage for this monumental gathering of image consultants, business leaders, and industry experts from around the world. Themed "Weaving the Future: Global Collaborations for Breakthrough Innovations," the four-day conference will be a melting pot of ideas, insights, and inspiration.

Breaking Barriers and Elevating Filipino Excellence

Olen Juarez-Lim’s election as AICI’s first Asian and Filipina president is a game-changer. It is a testament to the growing influence of Filipino professionals on the global stage and a recognition of the Philippines as a hub for world-class talent in image consulting, branding, and personal development.

"This is more than just a conference; it is a celebration of diversity, innovation, and cultural exchange. Hosting AICI’s first global conference in Manila is an opportunity to showcase Filipino excellence, creativity, and hospitality on an international platform," Lim stated.

The event is expected to attract delegates from North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia, offering unparalleled networking and learning opportunities.

A Powerhouse Lineup of Global Thought Leaders

The AICI Global Conference will feature an impressive roster of industry leaders and visionaries, including:

Paolo Tibig – Renowned business mentor and Go Negosyo advocate, delivering a keynote on entrepreneurial success in image consulting.

Amber Renae – Online business authority from Australia, sharing insights on digital influence and branding in the digital age.

Kara Finney (Dexterity Canada) – Addressing relational skills and professional communication strategies.

Bea Valdes, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Philippines – Leading discussions on fashion, luxury branding, and Filipino artistry.

Rajo Laurel, legendary fashion designer – Headlining a special fashion showcase featuring traditional Filipino weaves and their role in global fashion.

With 44 breakout sessions, attendees will gain expertise in areas such as visual communication, psychology of shapes and colors, styling, corporate branding, business strategy, and marketing.

Showcasing Filipino Culture on a Global Stage

Beyond the conference halls, attendees will experience the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. Delegates will indulge in Filipino cuisine, local traditions, and immersive cultural experiences, reinforcing the country’s reputation for warm hospitality and vibrant creativity.

"The Philippines is more than just a venue—it is a living, breathing inspiration for image consultants worldwide. This conference is a chance for Filipino image professionals to gain international recognition, build networks, and share their expertise with a global audience," Lim emphasized.

The event will also allow participants to explore iconic Philippine tourist destinations, blending education with leisure in a setting of glitz, glamour, and game-changing collaborations.

A Defining Moment for the Industry

As the first AICI Global Conference in Asia, this event marks a turning point in the field of image consulting. It is a powerful reminder that the industry is evolving, embracing global inclusivity and innovation.

Rosario Diz, AICI’s Vice President for Global Conferences, underscored the significance of the Manila event:

"This is more than just a milestone for AICI—it is a chance to expand our global reach, connect cultures, and shape the future of image consulting together."

With Manila as the epicenter of this transformation, the world will witness how Filipinos weave the future of global image consulting—one breakthrough at a time.

This April, the world comes to the Philippines—and the Philippines takes center stage in the world.

Deadly Beauty: Banned Mercury-Laced Skincare Still Sold Online—Are You at Risk?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The relentless pursuit of lighter skin through mercury-laden cosmetics. Despite stringent bans and dire health warnings, these toxic products continue to infiltrate markets, endangering lives and defying regulations. The EcoWaste Coalition's recent exposé sheds light on this alarming trend, revealing that FDA-flagged Thai skincare products with hazardous mercury content are still being sold online, particularly on platforms like Lazada and Shopee.​

The Silent Infiltration of Toxic Beauty

The allure of flawless, fair skin has driven many to seek solutions in skincare products promising rapid results. However, this quest often leads to the use of cosmetics tainted with mercury—a heavy metal notorious for its severe health implications. Mercury exposure can result in kidney damage, neurological disorders, and dermatological issues such as rashes and scarring. More insidiously, the vapor from these products doesn't just affect the user; it permeates living spaces, putting entire households, especially children, at risk of mercury poisoning.​

Regulatory Measures and Their Shortcomings

In response to the escalating threat, regulatory bodies across Southeast Asia have taken decisive actions:​

Thailand's FDA: Prompted by petitions from the EcoWaste Coalition and its partners, Thailand banned several mercury-containing products, including variants of Dr. Yahnee skincare sets. ​

Singapore's Health Sciences Authority (HSA): Issued alerts in 2024 to raise consumer awareness about unsafe products like Dr. Yahnee, found to contain mercury and other harmful ingredients. ​

Philippines' FDA: Followed suit by banning Dr. Yahnee products for lacking valid certificates of product notification, in violation of Republic Act No. 9711, the FDA Act of 2009. ​

Despite these measures, the clandestine manufacture and trade of mercury-laden cosmetics persist, exploiting gaps in enforcement and the vast reach of online marketplaces.​

E-Commerce Platforms: Unwitting Accomplices?

The digital age has revolutionized commerce, with platforms like Lazada and Shopee becoming household names. Yet, this convenience comes with a caveat. The EcoWaste Coalition has criticized these online giants for not doing enough to prevent third-party sellers from listing banned and hazardous products. This oversight not only undermines consumer trust but also poses significant health risks. ​

Local Initiatives: A Beacon of Hope

Amidst these challenges, local governments have stepped up. In February 2025, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte issued Executive Order No. 2, creating a task force to enforce the city's ban on mercury-containing cosmetics. This proactive approach serves as a model for other municipalities, emphasizing the importance of localized action in combating this pervasive issue. ​

The Global Framework: ASEAN and the Minamata Convention

On a broader scale, regional and international agreements aim to curb the menace of mercury in cosmetics:​

ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD): Explicitly prohibits mercury in cosmetic products, setting a maximum limit of one part per million (ppm) for trace amounts. ​

Minamata Convention on Mercury: A global treaty targeting the phase-out of mercury-added products, including skin lightening creams, by 2020. Despite these provisions, the continued circulation of such products highlights the challenges in global enforcement and compliance. ​

A Call to Action: Collective Responsibility

The persistent presence of mercury-laden cosmetics in the market is not just a regulatory failure but a societal one. It underscores the need for:​

Stricter Enforcement: Authorities must intensify efforts to monitor and penalize the illegal manufacture, importation, and sale of these products.​

Platform Accountability: E-commerce sites should implement robust mechanisms to detect and remove listings of banned items, ensuring consumer safety.​

Public Awareness: Consumers must be educated about the dangers of mercury in cosmetics and encouraged to embrace natural beauty standards, challenging the discriminatory notions that equate fairness with attractiveness.​

The battle against toxic cosmetics is far from over. It demands a concerted effort from governments, businesses, and individuals alike. Only through collective vigilance and action can we hope to eradicate this silent threat and safeguard public health for generations to come.​

Umalohokan Workshops: Awakening Voices, Igniting Change

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Umalohokan Workshops—is a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to empowering voices, fostering civic engagement, and shaping a more informed, responsible society. Rooted in the spirit of the Umalohokan, the heralds of pre-colonial Philippines who spread truth and knowledge, these workshops breathe life into modern storytelling, ethical journalism, and community-driven advocacy.

At a time when misinformation spreads faster than facts, when genuine voices are drowned in digital noise, the Umalohokan Workshops equip Filipinos with the skills, confidence, and ethical grounding to reclaim the narrative—whether through journalism, digital media, public speaking, or grassroots activism.

What We Do

1. Truth in Storytelling

Digital Journalism & Ethical Reporting: Learn how to craft stories that inform, inspire, and ignite action.

Investigative Storytelling: Uncover hidden truths and bring untold narratives to light.

Citizen Journalism for Social Impact: Empower communities to share their voices responsibly.

2. Digital Advocacy & Influence

Social Media for Social Change: Master the art of advocacy in the digital era.

Responsible Content Creation: Balance virality with credibility.

AI in Journalism & Media Ethics: Navigate the future of AI-powered storytelling.

3. Public Speaking & Community Leadership

Speaking with Impact: Train with experts in persuasive speech and engaging delivery.

Grassroots Leadership & Mobilization: Learn to rally communities for meaningful change.

Media & Crisis Communication: Develop resilience in navigating controversy and misinformation.

Our Vision

To revive the Umalohokan spirit in the digital age—where every Filipino is empowered to speak truth, uphold integrity, and drive transformative change through media and advocacy.

Our Mission

To create a new generation of responsible storytellers and digital advocates who champion transparency, accountability, and community empowerment.

Why Join Us?

Founded by Media Trailblazers: Led by Ross Flores Del Rosario and other social media personalities with expertise in online journalism, civic engagement, and digital influence - Our blueprint for impact.

Empowerment Beyond Theory: We don’t just teach—we ignite real-world action.

Ethical, Responsible, and Visionary: Our approach ensures truth triumphs over misinformation.

A Movement, Not Just a Workshop: Join a growing network of storytellers, journalists, and advocates dedicated to shaping the nation's future.

The power of change starts with a single voice.

Be heard. Be the truth. Be Umalohokan!