Kim Chiu: ‘I want to be timeless’

CEBU, Philippines — “Would you believe what’s her request for lunch today?” Oro China Jewelry chief operations officer Jennifer Ty shares to the crowd at the recent “Love and Traditions” Event at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. “Aside from her favorite lechon, it’s ngohiong and pusô (hanging rice).”

Ty was introducing Cebuana star Kim Chiu as the latest brand ambassador of the company that began more than five decades ago as a small shop in downtown Cebu.

The Kapamilya star was further heaped on praise by the COO, calling her a genuine personality that lacks pretensions. “What you see is what you get, so that’s why we love her. She’s just amazingly sweet, no airs, and humble,” Ty added.

Lending her star power to an already glittering event, Chiu joined Cebu’s fashion set, jewelry collectors, and families preparing for their tinghun (a Fil-Chinese engagement ceremony) celebrations at the Atlantic Hall of Waterfront in Lahug.

“At first when my manager told me that I will be part of the Oro China family, I said, ‘Hala, Bisaya man na! Pareha mi!’” remarked Chiu on stage. “So I really want to thank Achi Jennie so much for the trust and for giving me this great opportunity to represent a homegrown brand that is very close to my heart.”

“As what Achi Jen told me during the pictorial, this brand had been passed down on them and it has been in the industry for 57 years. So to be part of this big brand is very humbling and special. Because like Achi Jen and Oro China, I also want to be timeless.”

Ty said choosing Chiu was a no-brainer not only because her family has long admired the actress, but also since she embodies their brand’s values of being graceful, resilient, and deeply rooted in one’s heritage.

“My family, my children love Kim Chiu. We tried to get her for years. I feel like Kim and our brand have so much in common. Of course, both of us are proudly Cebuano. And both of us make our families the most prioritized aspect of our lives,” said Ty.

“We also share the same values of loyalty, integrity, and being true to one’s self. These values are at the heart of Oro China, and I see these reflected in Kim – not just as a public figure, but also as a person.”

On how she chooses her jewelry pieces, Chiu said, “Every outfit that I wear, I always want to tell a story. Most of the time, I choose jewelry that are statement pieces, bold, and classy.”

She added, “Aside from its beautiful pieces, it’s also a celebration of heritage, craftsmanship, and meaningful moments. Especially that we give jewelry during special occasions, or we treat it to ourselves. So jewelry is something important to us and memorable that we own.”