Skincare Powerhouse Brand Dermorepubliq Wins Gold at 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for Viral Billboard Campaign

Manila, Philippines — Dermorepubliq, TikTok Philippines’ leading science-based skincare brand, has achieved a historic milestone by clinching a Gold Stevie at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for its high-impact PR, influencer, and billboard campaign, “The breakup that went viral by Dermorepubliq.”

The campaign stood as the sole winner in the Innovation in the “Use of Viral Media or Word of Mouth” category, recognized for its masterful use of stealth marketing to cut through a saturated skincare market. This was amplified through a strategic communications program managed by its PR agency, Uniquecorn Strategies.

“Dermorepubliq was built on a simple but uncompromising belief: science-based skincare that works,” said Keith Sta. Barbara, CEO and Founder of Dermorepubliq. “This campaign brought that promise to life in a way that felt real to people before they even knew our name.”

Instead of traditional advertising, Dermorepubliq utilized stealth marketing to spark nationwide curiosity. The campaign launched with a cryptic, unbranded billboard: “‘Wag na tayo mag break please. Love, D.” By tapping into the cultural fascination with celebrity breakups, the message served as a clever double entendre for skin breakouts—the very concern Dermorepubliq’s science-based formulas are designed to address.

As Dermorepubliq's PR partner, Uniquecorn Strategies managed the narrative, translating organic intrigue into a massive earned media event. The PR effort was executed in two phases to ensure maximum media impact. First, the Tease leveraged viral speculation to secure 42 earned stories and over 60 million influencer video views. This was followed by the Reveal, which officially linked the “breakup” to “breakouts,” triggering a second wave of 43 earned media stories.

The campaign achieved a staggering 200 million in combined online reach and 100 million total video views. Through 93 earned media stories facilitated by Uniquecorn, the brand generated an estimated USD 4.5 million in PR value, successfully cementing its transition from a digital-first brand to a formidable mainstream retail contender.

“This recognition affirms that an effective PR strategy can transform a bold, creative idea into a cultural moment,” said Dean Bernales, CEO and Founder of Uniquecorn Strategies. “Our role was to ensure that the intrigue generated by the billboard was met with a clear, engaging narrative that resonated with the media and the public alike. We are proud to have partnered with Dermorepubliq to help them emerge as a homegrown brand that can rival the country’s largest conglomerates.”

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards is one of the most prestigious business awards programs in the region, drawing entries from leading corporations, institutions, and agencies across Asia-Pacific. It recognizes business innovation and excellence across the region, with entries judged by an independent panel of industry professionals.

Dermorepubliq’s win is a notable feat for a homegrown brand, as it competed alongside the Philippines’ largest conglomerates in this year’s contingent, such as SM Supermalls, Ayala Corporation, and San Miguel Corporation.

With Dermorepubliq products available in Watsons’ online store and select physical branches across Metro Manila, this milestone marks the brand’s expansion from an e-commerce powerhouse into a formidable mainstream retail presence via one of the country's leading health and beauty retail chains.

“When the public chooses to carry your story, it is the strongest proof that what you stand for resonates,” Sta. Barbara said. “Now with our products available at Watsons, this Gold Stevie award is both a proud milestone and a powerful reminder of why we do what we do — to bring science-based skincare that truly performs to every Filipino.”

Beyond Watsons, Dermorepubliq products are available on TikTok Shop, Shopee, Lazada, and at its official website, www.dermorepubliq.com.

Belle Mariano Showcases How Hygiene Meets Self-Expression at Sanicare’s First ‘Hygiene Hangout’

Manila, Philippines — Sanicare, a trusted Filipino personal hygiene brand, made everyday care stylishly relatable through its first-ever “Hygiene Hangout” at Sevenscape in San Juan City. The event celebrated individuality and confidence, reminding guests that hygiene can be a form of self-expression—one that fits your lifestyle and personality.

The Hygiene Hangout featured three interactive lifestyle zones: Chill Minimalist, Fresh Trendsetter, and Always-Ready Planner, each reflecting a distinct hygiene personality. Guests took part in DIY charm-making, enjoyed mocktails inspired by Sanicare products, and captured their “Hygiene BFF” moments.

Leading the experience was Sanicare’s care ambassador, Belle Mariano, who embodies a modern, on-the-go lifestyle that balances work, creativity, and confidence. “Self-care for me is really important because that’s where you get your energy to present yourself to the world. To show your best version out there, you really need to take care of yourself. There is nothing wrong with forming that kind of healthy relationship with yourself,” she shared during the event’s Q&A.

Expanding on her self-care mantra, Belle added: “I continuously live by ‘Self-care isn’t selfish.’ It’s okay to take a step back, have a day off from social media, or unwind with friends. This allows me to recharge and deliver my best in everything I do.”

The actress and singer also reflected on her partnership with Sanicare, highlighting how it aligns with her personal values, saying, “I grew up using Sanicare, from my early days in the industry. Knowing that the brand shares the same advocacy I truly believe in, which is self-care, makes me proud to be part of this family.

Inspired by the “What’s In Your Bag?” concept, the event highlighted how the items we carry reflect our authentic selves. Guests enjoyed interactive activities that reflected their colorful hygiene personas.

During the event, Belle also joined attendees in a special segment where she shared her personal self-care habits and simple hygiene hacks. One of her go-to tips: she keeps hankies in all her bags so that no matter which one she grabs for the day, she always has what she needs to feel fresh and prepared.

"At Sanicare, we believe hygiene goes beyond a routine— it’s part of who you are,” said Jazel Marielli A. Ramos Yeo, Marketing Communications Manager of Sanitary Care Products Asia, Inc. “This event was our way of showing that personal care can be both practical and expressive. Everyone can find a Sanicare product that fits their unique lifestyle.”

With nearly 30 years of providing trusted hygiene products in the Philippines, Sanicare continues to reinforce that personal care is about staying fresh, confident, and true to oneself, underlining its commitment to practical and lifestyle-oriented hygiene products.

To know more about Sanicare, visit https://www.facebook.com/sanicare.ph.

Everyday Gentle Exfoliation Without Compromise with Cetaphil’s Latest Innovation: the Gentle Exfoliating Salicylic Acid Line

Cetaphil, the trusted global leader in sensitive skincare, continues to push boundaries in dermatological care with the launch of its latest innovation: the Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating Salicylic Acid line—a transformative solution designed for individuals with rough and bumpy skin, yet safe enough for everyday use on even the most sensitive skin.

Unveiled at a high-touch, sensorial launch event featuring Atasha Muhlach as brand ambassador and Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas as resident dermatologist, the new line champions exfoliation without compromise, redefining what it means to care for sensitive skin—daily, gently, and effectively.

A Skincare Breakthrough Backed by Science Rough, bumpy, or textured skin can be difficult to treat—especially when traditional exfoliating products are too harsh and disruptive to the skin barrier. Cetaphil’s new Salicylic Acid line solves this by combining a Triple-Acid Blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA with Cetaphil’s hydrating blend of Niacinamide, Glycerin, and Panthenol, that boost your skin’s 15 essential ceramides.

The result: a gentle exfoliating formulation that works deeply while caring for the delicate barrier, especially for those with sensitive skin. It’s safe for everyday use, allowing consistent, visible results without irritation or over-stripping.

“The key is really using a well-formulated ingredient,” shares Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, board-certified dermatologist. “Salicylic acid will do the heavy lifting, and it helps to have other ingredients along with it that moisturize skin like niacinamide and panthenol, providing hydration and barrier support, while salicylic acid does its job."

A Sensorial Experience That Brings the Science to Life

The launch event, held at Electric Garden, showcased a sensorial and informational experience, giving guests the chance to feel the difference between rough and bumpy vs. soft and smooth skin through hands-on stations and sensorial activations. One of the most popular zones allowed attendees to compare various salicylic acid-based formulations, giving a clear understanding of how Cetaphil’s gentle exfoliation stands out in both performance and tolerability.

“As someone always on the go, I need skincare that works but won’t compromise my skin,” says Atasha Muhlach. “This product really changed everything. This is the one exfoliator that I really swear by and you can really use everyday— and trust me, your skin will be better than ever.”

Sensitive Skin First: A Legacy Continued

This launch builds on Cetaphil’s science-centered refresh, first seen in its Cetaphil SkinLabs initiative, where education and empowerment were front and center. Sensitive skin affects over 70% of people globally, and the Philippines ranks among the top countries with the highest prevalence. Cetaphil’s mission remains clear: to be the gold standard in gentle, effective care for every skin type—especially the most sensitive.

“We believe no one should have to choose between results and comfort,” says Mark Sarmiento, Business Unit Head at Cetaphil. “Cetaphil has harnessed the benefits of salicylic acid in a gentle, clinically proven formulation that respects and cares for delicate skin, while still delivering effective exfoliation through the Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating Salicylic Acid Cleanser and Lotion.”

Made for Everyone’s Sensitive Skin

The new Gentle Exfoliating Salicylic Acid line furthers Cetaphil’s dedication to creating dermatologist-developed, clinically tested solutions that empower users of all ages and skin types, especially for sensitive skin.

If you have sensitive skin, rough texture, or persistent bumps, it’s worth asking—could your current skincare be doing more harm than good? Many exfoliants promise results, but often at the cost of irritation. Cetaphil’s new Gentle Exfoliating SA line is different: it’s clinically formulated to smooth, soften, and refine rough, bumpy skin—while respecting even the most sensitive skin barriers, backed by science and trusted by dermatologists.

For more information on Cetaphil and the new rebranding initiative, visit Cetaphil, follow @CetaphilPH on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Cetaphil products are available at Watsons, Mercury Drug, leading e-commerce platforms, and other key retailers.

Dermorepubliq Spotlights Its First-Ever Sunscreen With TikTok Challenge and Boracay Trip Giveaway

Manila, Philippines — As the country grapples with record-breaking heat index levels reaching up to 47°C in several areas, homegrown skincare brand Dermorepubliq is highlighting its first-ever sunscreen, the DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen, in a summer campaign that encourages daily sun protection. Formulated in response to the growing demand for sun care suited to Filipino skin and tropical conditions, DermoSun takes center stage this season through a multi-platform push that includes a TikTok challenge and strategic billboard placements across Metro Manila.

The launch marks the brand’s official entry into the sun care category and a wider push to normalize sunscreen use as part of everyday skincare beyond seasonal use. The DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen is formulated with SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection and designed to be lightweight, matte, and blend seamlessly into the skin without leaving a white cast, making it ideal for daily wear in the country’s climate.

Infused with Centella Asiatica to help soothe irritated skin, Jeju Aloe to rehydrate, and Niacinamide to regulate sebum and improve skin texture, making it well-suited for oily or combination skin in humid environments. Priced at P499, the product is available through TikTok Shop, Shopee, Lazada, and www.dermorepubliq.com, as well as at Dermorepubliq kiosks in SM Fairview, SM Masinag, SM Tanza, SM Sta. Mesa and Riverbanks Center.

“Sunscreen was one of the most requested products by our users, and we developed DermoSun to reflect what they value — daily protection, comfort in our climate, and a formula that fits seamlessly into their routines,” said Keith Sta. Barbara, Founder and President of Dermorepubliq. “This campaign is our way of making sun protection more approachable and part of the lifestyle, not a chore.”

To help normalize daily sunscreen use among younger consumers, the brand recently launched the DermoSun 2-Finger Challenge, a TikTok-led initiative encouraging users to post short videos demonstrating proper sunscreen application using the dermatologist-recommended two-finger method. The campaign taps into the brand’s growing creator community, inviting users to share educational or creative sunscreen routines featuring DermoSun in a yellow basket. To join, participants must tag @dermorepubliq, use the hashtags #DoItWithDermo and #Dermo2FingerChallenge, and follow the brand on all platforms. Multiple entries are allowed.

The TikTok challenge runs until May 30, 2025, with one winner receiving an all-expense-paid trip for two to Boracay, to be announced on June 10. Submissions will be judged based on creativity and relatability (60%) and accuracy of application (40%).

To drive broader awareness for the campaign, Dermorepubliq rolled out billboard placements across key locations in Metro Manila with a static installation along C5 Eastwood and LED displays at EDSA Guadalupe and C5 Pasig. Featuring visuals that spotlight DermoSun Mattifying Sunscreen’s lightweight, grease-free formula, the outdoor campaign reinforces the brand’s message that sun protection can be both practical and seamlessly woven into real-life routines.

Known for its accessible and science-backed skincare, Dermorepubliq first rose to popularity through TikTok Shop and has since expanded into a multi-platform brand with a strong connection to its online community. The launch of DermoSun marks its official entry into the sun care category, solidifying its role as a homegrown skincare brand committed to Filipino consumers with a campaign aimed at reshaping habits using content, creators, and education to make everyday sun protection a cultural norm.