The Pulse of Tokyo: Julian Opie’s "Marathon. Women." Ignites GINZA SIX

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

In the high-octane intersection of global luxury and avant-garde culture that is Tokyo’s Ginza district, a new visual rhythm is about to take hold. GINZA SIX, the premier destination for retail and art in the capital, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the celebrated British contemporary artist, Julian Opie.

Debuting in September 2025, Opie’s latest masterpiece, Marathon. Women., promises to transform the building’s colossal central atrium into a hypnotic study of human motion, blending the primal history of our species with the sleek, technological future of Japan’s metropolis.

A Monument to Motion

Suspended in midair within the architectural marvel designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, Marathon. Women. is not merely a screen; it is a monolith of digital performance.

The installation utilizes a massive 10-by-8-meter LED screen enclosure that dominates the central void of the complex. Upon this digital canvas, four stories of visitors will witness a ceaseless, mesmerizing parade of figures: seven female runners, rendered in Opie’s signature bold lines and vivid, simple colors.

Modeled on real members of the British Track and Field Team, each digital athlete runs at her own pace, endlessly circling the atrium. The scale of the work is designed to be immersive, visible from multiple angles spanning floors 2 through 5, turning the act of shopping into an encounter with high art.

The Philosophy: Ancient Instincts in a Modern Void

Julian Opie, a Goldsmiths alumnus known for his minimalistic, pictogram-like depictions of the human form, sees this installation as a bridge between our evolutionary past and our urban present.

"Running is one of our most fundamental activities, an instinctive behavior etched onto our makeup by evolutionary forces." — Julian Opie.

Opie posits that long before the concrete jungle of Tokyo existed, our ancestors survived through the relentless pursuit of prey. By stripping these figures down to their essential shapes while keeping them recognizable, Opie taps into a "universal" visual language. The result is a work that feels at home in the bustling, hyper-modern environment of Ginza while connecting deeply with the primal DNA of humanity.

The Viewer as Participant

What makes Marathon. Women. dramatically compelling is its demand for interaction. This is not passive viewing. The installation "essentially demands" that visitors walk around the atrium to experience the shifting perspectives.

As visitors traverse the spiral of GINZA SIX, adding their own movement to that of the digital runners, they cease to be mere spectators. They become part of the kinetic energy of the piece, their own motion shifting their perception of the work in real-time. Opie notes that his goal was to create a work that would "make sense in this bustling space and yet blend in effortlessly".

GINZA SIX: The Cultural Nexus

The choice of venue is no accident. Since opening in 2017, GINZA SIX has established itself as a "cultural nexus" in Tokyo, far surpassing the definition of a traditional department store.

Architectural Prestige: The building blends innovation with history, featuring an exterior inspired by traditional Japanese noren curtains.

A Legacy of Art: The central atrium has previously hosted transformative works by legends such as Yayoi Kusama, Daniel Buren, and teamLab.

Cultural Depth: Beyond the art, the complex houses the KANZE NOH THEATER and a tranquil rooftop garden, offering a sanctuary from the city below.

Opie himself was struck by the gravity of the venue, noting, "I was impressed by the previous works; they all appeared to be very serious projects".

Exhibition Essentials

For art enthusiasts and travelers seeking the pinnacle of Tokyo's cultural offering, this installation is a mandatory destination.

Title: Marathon. Women. 

Artist: Julian Opie 

Venue: GINZA SIX, Central Atrium (Floors 2–5) 

Dates: September 11, 2025 – Autumn 2026 (Planned) 

Presented By: GINZA SIX Retail Management Co., Ltd. in cooperation with MAHO KUBOTA GALLERY 

World Bazaar Festival 2025: Celebrating 25 Years of Holiday Magic and Filipino Creativity!

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

Pasay City, Philippines — The country’s leading annual charity bazaar and most anticipated holiday shopping tradition celebrates a historic milestone as the World Bazaar Festival (WBF) marks its 25th anniversary.

WBF officially launched its silver-year festivities with a momentous MOA Signing Ceremony and Exhibitors’ Orientation held on November 12, 2025, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila—the official venue partner and long-time home of the country’s premier holiday bazaar.

The ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing brought together key sponsors and partners who have been instrumental in sustaining the festival’s success throughout the years.

Among the distinguished signatories was the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., the event’s official beneficiary, represented by Ms. Trisha Anne Mandap, Resource Mobilization Officer. She expressed profound gratitude for WSI’s continued support, stating,

“We’re very grateful and honored to be the chosen foundation of Worldbex Services International. This partnership has given a lot of opportunities for the foundation to be of help to our ‘Kapamilya’ here in the country.” She also extended heartfelt congratulations to Worldbex Services International on reaching its remarkable 25-year milestone.

Also present were WBF’s major partners and sponsors. GCash, the official payment partner, was represented by Mr. Martin Kristopher Limgenco II, Head of B2B Commercial, who reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to secure and seamless digital transactions. LBC Express, Inc., the event co-presenter, was represented by Ms. Kristel Mae Matanguihan, Maceda Head of Integrated Marketing Communications, who emphasized their dedication to delivering meaningful and memorable holiday experiences.

The ceremony also showcased the strong support of WBF’s valued event partners. Making their festival debut was Cadre28 Advertising and Communications (Geek + Pop), represented by Mr. Earl Patrick S. Manga. The event additionally welcomed the Department of Trade and Industry – MIMAROPA, represented by Mr. Jonathan David L. Laxamana; the Christmas Décor Producers and Exporters Association of the Philippines, represented by Mrs. Rosario P. Dy; the Organization of Bar Professionals, represented by Mr. Gerry Ele II; Arcana Studios, represented by Mr. Nadz Almadin; Center for Pop Music Philippines, Inc., represented by Mr. Butch Garreth Albarracin; and the ALAFOP Federation of the Philippines, represented by Myla W. Roy-Monido. Together, these partnerships reaffirm a shared vision of uplifting Filipino creativity, innovation, and commerce.

Following the signing ceremony was the Grand Launching of WBF’s 25th Anniversary—a special program celebrating the festival’s legacy as the country’s foremost holiday shopping destination. The launch revealed this year’s lineup of activities, curated showcases, and new experiential attractions designed to delight both loyal patrons and first-time attendees.

Reflecting on this milestone, WSI Managing Director Ms. Jill Ang shared a heartfelt message:

“Twenty-five years stands as a testament to what meaningful partnerships can achieve. We are deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in us, and we look forward to creating even greater milestones together. As we celebrate this moment, our commitment to serve with purpose shines brighter than ever.”

Her words echo the festival’s core mission—to nurture connections that empower communities and kindle the joy of the season for everyone.

Capping the day was the Exhibitor Orientation, where merchants were briefed on event guidelines, marketing opportunities, and support services for the upcoming 10-day festival. The orientation served as an essential touchpoint to equip exhibitors for welcoming thousands of holiday shoppers in search of the season’s best finds.

Anchored by distinguished partners, a grand anniversary celebration, and a thriving community of exhibitors, the 25th World Bazaar Festival is set to shine brighter than ever from December 12 to 21, 2025. Shoppers can expect an unforgettable Christmas shopping experience filled with festive deals, local craftsmanship, and beloved holiday traditions.

Get your tickets now at www.worldbazaarfestival.com

For inquiries, contact the World Bazaar Festival 2025 Project Head, Ms. Rea Sobrevega, at telephone: 8656-9239 loc. 128, mobile: M: 0916-338-5886 / 0927 468 0592 or email: wsi13@worldbexevents.com for faster communication. 

World Bazaar Festival 2025 is organized by Worldbex Services International, the country’s leading events and exhibitions management company for 28 years.

Why Beef Chips Are the Ultimate Snack for Busy Professionals

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

 

The Evolution of Professional Snacking Habits

The workplace isn't what it used to be. With longer hours becoming the norm and traditional snack options falling short, professionals are actively seeking better ways to fuel their workday. It's no surprise that 73% of office workers reach for snacks at least twice during their shifts, though many aren't thrilled with the usual vending machine fare. In fact, 42% express frustration with conventional options, leading to a surge in demand for protein-packed, convenient alternatives that can keep energy levels steady throughout demanding days.

The snacking landscape has undergone quite a transformation, with meat-based options showing impressive 23% annual growth since 2019. What's driving this shift? Industry experts point to a growing understanding of how protein impacts workplace performance. The numbers speak for themselves, a 2023 workplace nutrition study showed that professionals choosing protein-rich snacks experienced 31% better afternoon productivity compared to those reaching for carb-heavy options.

Nutritional Benefits for Peak Performance

Looking at what makes meat-based snacks stand out, the benefits become crystal clear. Throughout demanding workdays, beef chips deliver sustained energy and vital nutrients that conventional snacks simply can't provide. While regular potato chips offer a mere 2-3 grams of protein per serving, these innovative alternatives pack a powerful 15-20 grams. This substantial protein boost helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, directly enhancing cognitive function and work output. They're also loaded with B-vitamins, iron, and zinc, key nutrients that keep both body and mind running at peak efficiency.

The impact on workplace performance is remarkable. According to the Journal of Workplace Health Management, professionals incorporating protein-rich snacks experience 40% fewer energy dips and maintain sharper focus during afternoon meetings. Even more impressive? A study tracking 500 office workers revealed that switching to protein-based snacks kept them feeling satisfied for 2. 5 hours longer than traditional options, breaking the familiar cycle of snack-crash-repeat.

Convenience and Portability in Professional Settings

Practicality, meat-based chips truly shine in professional environments. Unlike many protein-rich snacks that need refrigeration, these can be tucked away in desk drawers or briefcases without worry. Their shelf-stable nature means they're always ready for those unexpected late nights or marathon meeting sessions. It's worth noting that 84% of professionals specifically value snacks they can enjoy without disrupting their workflow.

Smart packaging design, including resealable features, makes portion control and freshness maintenance a breeze throughout the week. This convenience factor hasn't gone unnoticed, office snack subscription services featuring meat-based options have seen a remarkable 156% uptick since 2021. Plus, their minimal crumb factor makes them perfect for virtual meetings or around sensitive equipment.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Today's professionals aren't just thinking about their own wellbeing, they're increasingly conscious of environmental impact. Manufacturers have stepped up to meet these expectations, with leading producers embracing grass-fed beef and sustainable packaging solutions. These changes have led to impressive results, with carbon footprint reductions of up to 40% compared to traditional snack production methods.

The industry hasn't stopped at environmental concerns. Companies are making strides in ethical sourcing, ensuring transparent supply chains and humane animal treatment. Recent data shows this matters, 67% of professional consumers prefer snacks from companies demonstrating strong environmental and ethical commitments. This has sparked innovative processing techniques that minimize waste while maximizing sustainable resource use.

Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Value

While meat-based chips might carry a higher initial price tag than conventional snacks, the numbers tell an interesting story about their true value. Professionals making the switch report spending 28% less on additional food throughout the day, thanks to increased satiety. When you factor in the nutritional benefits and productivity boosts, the cost per serving actually represents a smart investment for budget-conscious professionals.

The corporate world has caught on to these benefits, with 45% of wellness programs now including high-protein snack options in their employee benefits packages. This isn't just about being trendy, companies offering premium snack options have observed a 17% reduction in sick days and 22% higher afternoon meeting participation. These statistics highlight the tangible returns on investing in quality workplace nutrition.

Conclusion

The emergence of meat-based chips marks a genuine breakthrough in professional snacking, perfectly aligned with modern workplace demands. By combining robust nutritional benefits with unmatched convenience and sustainable practices, they've become an ideal choice for professionals aiming to maintain high performance throughout their workday. As workplace wellness continues gaining prominence, these protein-rich alternatives stand out as a practical, effective solution for today's professional challenges. With continuous innovations in production techniques and wider availability, meat-based chips are well-positioned to remain the go-to choice for health-conscious professionals seeking optimal workplace nutrition.