Students Raise Funds for COVID-19 Emergency Response in World Vision’s 5K Campaign Challenge

Students across the Philippines showed their support to the children and families affected by the pandemic by participating in World Vision’s 5K Campaign Challenge, a fundraising initiative for the benefit of the child-focused organization’s COVID-19 emergency response.

The 5K Campaign Challenge’s goal is to encourage the participating students to fundraise among their peers and relatives to help affected families receive cash support to buy their basic needs. 

Exclusive: SB19 drops their highly anticipated debut album, ‘Get in the Zone’

SB19 pushes the envelope of pop music with the release of their debut full-length album, Get in the Zone, out today on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music.  

Mashing together various music influences with top-tier production and global appeal, the nine-track release features six original compositions, along with the EDM version of “Love Goes” and two instrumental songs.

Thematically speaking, Get in the Zone maps their creative and personal journey. “It hasn’t been long since we released our debut single ‘Tilaluha,’ but prior to that, we have been training for years already,” says Sejun. “We wanted to incorporate all the things that we have experienced during trainee days into this album by putting all the emotions that we went through into our music. It was an emotional rollercoaster, but we pulled through and we hope that we get to inspire people with our story.”

Filipino teachers and the passion that makes learning continuity possible

The new normal may have limited physical interaction, but in no way did it hinder the unyielding commitment and drive of those at the frontlines of education - Filipino teachers. Even if the academic community is facing numerous challenges in preparation for school year 2020-2021, countless Filipino teachers remain passionate about providing quality basic education to their students.

Putting Students First 

Cagayan National High School Master Teacher Enrique Garcia remains committed to learning continuity during the pandemic.

Aretha Franklin Biopic "Respect" Unreels Teaser Trailer

Singer. Activist. The Queen of Soul. Jennifer Hudson is Aretha Franklin in Universal Pictures new drama musical biopic RESPECT.  

Check out the official trailer below and watch the film in Philippine cinemas soon.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/6XewRVh2g2c

Following the rise of Aretha Franklin’s career from a child singing in her father’s church’s choir to her international superstardom, RESPECT is the remarkable true story of the music icon’s journey to find her voice.

GrabPay and Trendsetter’s Bazaar Team Up for a 3-day Cashless Shopping Experience

An exciting and rewarding online shopping experience await customers with GrabPay

Grab, the Philippines’ leading everyday app, teams up with Trendsetter Team to push for a safer and more rewarding cashless shopping experience through GrabPay.

As more businesses in the Philippines slowly resume operations, hygiene and safety continue to be a top priority. As such, more and more Filipinos are opting for a total cashless experience, especially with the call to practice social distancing and lessen physical contact. This cashless revolution not only gives way to a more seamless shopping experience, but also helps in the recovery of small businesses greatly impacted by pandemic. Easing the strain brought by the challenges faced by brick and mortar stores, a cashless shopping experience allows merchants and customers to transact in the safety of their homes.  

'No learner left behind' MVP leads School-in-a-Bag turnover

PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan, who is also known as MVP, recently marked his birthday through various activities that aim to help schools prepare to reopen classes. 

MVP led the turnover of the School-in-a-bag (SIAB) donation to North Bay Boulevard North Elementary School in Navotas, Metro Manila. The SIAB donation forms part of the $50K grant from Huawei Technologies Philippines, Inc. to the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF). 

We Should Stay Strong, Healthy, Safe, and Insured!

In the mist of the pandemic, which still continues up to this writing, it has been a very stressful and anxious. It has been months of a lot of things that have changed the way we live. This has affected everybody from all walks of life and almost everyone in the whole world.

It really seems sad that what we were used to are now changed despite the progress we have made. But this should not the case because it also opened up a new world of opportunities that we also can shift to. People have made their own businesses and sold them online, people are now working from their homes and also making other gigs online, and some converted from office work to deliver goods and some services.

We also owe our health and safety to our frontliners who works hard and exposed to infections just to provide the essential needs and keep the economy afloat. There were times that they have to walk far, and even if they have vehicles, seating and sharing is limited. Now that we eased up to fewer restrictions, there are still a lot of risks out there that is on top the current crisis that we are all in.

Honda Philippines Donates Water Pumps for Rizal Park

Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI), the No. 1 motorcycle manufacturer and distributor of Honda’s power product in the Philippines, recently donated Honda power products to help restore and maintain the Japanese Garden at the Rizal Park, Manila.

The Japanese Garden is found in the middle of the Rizal Park (Luneta Park), built to promote the friendship between Japan and the Philippines. Known for its lagoon and a bridge, the Japanese Garden brings serenity and beauty to the bustling city of Manila.

Coinciding with the Philippines-Japan Friendship Day, Honda donated a Honda WX10T and a WL30XH water pumps, which will be useful in cultivating and preserving the garden.

917Ventures, AC Health team up for new healthcare app

With the current pandemic, it’s not easy for Filipinos to take care of their health. There have been delays in seeking medical help due to fear of contracting the virus when they go out to visit a doctor’s clinic or a pharmacy.

Healthcare providers, on the other hand, are also facing a challenge, as they have to handle a tremendous volume of patients while making sure that everyone receives the appropriate help at the right time.  

917Ventures, the largest corporate incubator in the Philippines wholly-owned by Globe, is collaborating with ACHealth to provide solutions to these problems. The collaboration resulted in HealthNow, an all-in-one health app that will help Filipinos get the healthcare they need anytime, anywhere.  

Globe teams up with Bataan LGU to streamline SAP processing

The general community quarantine still follows the same guidelines from the enhanced community quarantine: go out only when necessary, practice social distancing, and wear masks at all times. To help maintain these guidelines, the Bataan local government unit (LGU) has tapped Globe to streamline the processing and approval of its Social Amelioration Program (SAP) for constituents. 

Globe via its innovative developer arm, Globe Labs, and Bataan LGU harnessed technology through Amber, the telco’s SMS blasting tool that allows businesses and organizations to send branded and customizable messages to engage their target audience.

Complete Your OOTD Look with These Stylish Yet Comfy Shoes from Skechers at Shopee’s 8.8 Fashion Sale

On July 29, shoppers can enjoy up to 70% off on selected Sketcher items from Shopee

Calling all shoe-fanatics! Trying to find the perfect pair of shoes? Look no further as Skechers is having their end of season sale on Shopee. On July 29, shoppers can enjoy up to 70% off on selected pairs of shoes at Shopee’s 8.8 Fashion Sale. Here are eight pairs of kicks shoppers can indulge in: 

Sarah G is searching for TikTok Idols who can ace the #TNTSingLikeSarah challenge

Get a chance to win TNT Giga Stories 499 and a special shoutout from Sarah G!

If you are a certified Popster who can sing like Popstar Royalty Sarah Geronimo, this TikTok challenge might just be for you.

Telco service provider TNT and Sarah G. have teamed up for TNT TikTok Idols, a search for talented TNT subscribers who can sing their hearts out and perform the hit song ‘Tala’ on TikTok.

PayMaya Negosyo's 'Bizkarte' program supercharges MSME growth and recovery

As the whole country adapts to changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, many enterprising Filipinos are turning their entrepreneurship drive into full-fledged businesses, utilizing the power of social media and cashless payments technologies. 

To help accelerate the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) all around the country, digital financial services leader PayMaya launched its PayMaya Negosyo "Bizkarte" Program which aims to provide MSMEs with the right tools, assistance, and resources to help their businesses thrive in the growing world of digital commerce. 

A play on the words "business" and diskarte–which describes the uniquely Filipino trait of being enterprising despite the seemingly insurmountable odds–the "Bizkarte" program for MSMEs offers PayMaya's end-to-end digital payment solutions bundled with incentives through exclusive promotions and rewards for merchants and their customers, co-marketing push for members' products and services, as well as online trainings on entrepreneurial and digital skills to help partners grow their businesses in the eCommerce space. 

Manila Government, Globe Business assist public schools with data plans for online learning

The city government of Manila will be providing public school students with free access to online learning platforms under Globe’s BatangMaynilaSurf Plans. The telco giant also gave 11,000 LTE pocket mobile WiFi devices to the city for its public school teachers, as they prepare for the blended learning programs to be set by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Schools will be implementing blended learning—a mix of face-to-face and online classes, so that students can pursue their education amidst COVID-19. Lessons can be delivered using various channels such as TV, radio, computer devices, and learning modules and packets both in print and digital form.

UE Jam Sessions’ “Lalaban Tayo,” out now on digital platforms worldwide!

After reaching more than 120,000 views on Facebook in less than a month, UE Jam Sessions’ collaborative song “Lalaban Tayo” is finally available on digital and streaming platforms worldwide via MCA Music, Inc.

Recorded and filmed in the respective homes of participating members during the quarantine, “Lalaban Tayo” was written by Jenny Legaspi as a tribute to the unsung heroes of the pandemic era: the frontliners. 

The song also tackles the invaluable dedication and unwavering efforts of the medical workers and volunteers in the thick of the battle against an invisible enemy.  

GCash supports safety of BPO employees

As the Philippines slowly reopens the economy amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the country, entrepreneurs and employers alike are prioritizing the health and safety of its customers and employees.

To maintain social distance and minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19, salaries, incentives, and allowances are best dispersed through cashless channels. GCash for Business, the enterprise arm of the country’s leading mobile wallet, offers a wide range of business solutions which allow both merchants and users to enjoy a safe and secure cashless experience. It allows businesses to distribute payroll and allowances to employees through their GCash e-wallets, which can be linked to a GCash MasterCard.

Singer-Songwriter Jean Tan Delivers Delicious New Single ‘OAK CHERRY WINE’, Pre-empting Upcoming EP

Jean Tan’s latest single “Oak Cherry Wine” sees her continuing strong in a signature, bluesy vein, dropping on 24 July on all major digital streaming platforms via Leeway. This is Jean’s third and final single before the anticipated 5-song EP is released in fall 2020, produced and arranged by Singaporean R&B artist and multi-instrumentalist Dru Chen. 

So is this just another love song? Definitely not. Though familiar themes of courtship and romance feature like they do in the previous singles, this is perhaps Jean’s most personal release to date. This is an ode to love, but a deeper kind – one that grows better with age, holds steady in both the valley and mountain moments. It is a lettre d'amour to the lover who decides to stay for better and worse, richer and poorer, in sickness and in health. 

Three Fashion Sellers Share How Their Online Business Grew with Shopee Live

Shopee sellers share their experience on how Shopee Live has changed the way they do business. 

As e-commerce continues to grow in the Philippines, more sellers are exploring new ways to reach out and engage with potential customers online. In particular, Shopee online fashion sellers like Licel Manese, Alpha Joy Sto. Domingo and Nikka Solomon have leveraged live streaming as a unique and interactive way to showcase their products and engage with their consumers. 

Ensuring learning for young children amid the pandemic

Early childhood is a crucial stage in a child’s life. As a child grows from infancy up to eight years old, important connections are happening in the brain. Brain development progresses at a very rapid pace in the first few years of life, and at three years of age, a child’s brain is twice as active as an adult brain. This is a very special time that will never happen again. 

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, young children are staying at home without access to daycare. This can have longer lasting consequences among very young children as the unfolding overwhelming circumstances affect their brain. This can lead to toxic stress among children, which produces high levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that disrupts the process of brain development by limiting the proliferation of brain cells, damaging health, learning and behavior. But even as schools and day care centers remain closed, parents and caregivers can continue young children’s learning at home.  

Order Home Essentials From Western Appliances With Shopee

As we are now getting used to our quarantined lives, we also acquired skills in our homes such as general cleaning, dishwashing, and even laundry. It would be a great help that these chores can be made easy with various appliances which are now availalble online with Western Appliance on Shopee.

With also a lot of brand choices for washing machines, I highly suggest you can look at the reliable name in appliances, Sharp. They are launching new models which ensures that products can keep up with new functions and durability, like the Sharp ESU75GPGY 7.5kg Fully Automatic Washing Machine.

PLDT Home’s new ad sheds light on rediscovering the strongest family connections

Life in lockdown has been a learning phase for everyone. The pandemic may have brought collective fear due to the uncertainty of the times but there remains a glimmer of hope in the small things that were used to be taken for granted. And as families take part in this universal experience, it is also in these moments that people gain a newfound appreciation for the things that truly matter to them.

PLDT Home’s newest campaign video circles on redefining relationships and creating deeper emotional bonds in the family by rediscovering one’s strongest connections at home. The short film “Rediscover Home” depicts the changes between the normalcy people used to enjoy pre-quarantine, and the life they now know in the new normal.

Google Philippines celebrates Dolphy’s 92nd birthday with doodle

Today, Google Philippines celebrates the 92nd birthday of the comedian, actor, producer, and philanthropist Rodolfo ‘Dolphy’ Quizon with a doodle. This illustrates the country’s King of Comedy whose charm and humor warmed hearts and made him a household name among millions of Filipinos. 

Born on this day in 1928 in Manila, Dolphy’s interest with the performing arts began in his childhood when he was selling peanuts and watermelon seeds at movie theaters. Able to watch movies for free, the young Dolphy started dreaming of becoming an actor and landed his first small film role at age 19. This was followed by years of hard work and success in film and radio before he made his big television debut with the 1960s series “Buhay Artista” (“Actor’s Life”). 

United City Football Club launches logo competition for Fans

Winning design receives Pesos 10,000 in cash with fans receiving a personalized jersey

True to the commitment to connect and engage with the fans, United City Football Club, the defending champion of the Philippines Football League, is reaching out to artists to submit and for fans to vote on its new logo design.

“The prize money competition will allow the fans to have a say on what the crest, the most important part of a Clubs identity, will look like”, states CEO Eric M. Gottschalk. “We will strive for tolerance, excellence while creating a place for people to live out their dreams – a true Club for the People – it’s a long road ahead but we see this as a marathon and not a sprint”.

PayMaya, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls help local farmers and merchants bounce back through safe contactless payments

Customers can enjoy a safe and rewarding shopping experience
 via PayMaya QR at Eastwood City’s Harvest to Goodness
weekend market until July 30, 2020. .

#ScanToPay via PayMaya QR at Eastwood City's Harvest to Goodness weekend market

Buyers and diners in merchants around Eastwood City as well as local farmers participating in the Harvest to Goodness weekend market can feel safer and more secure as Megaworld Lifestyle Malls taps digital financial services leader PayMaya to offer contactless payment options to customers via PayMaya QR.

By equipping participating booths and stalls at Eastwood City's Harvest to Goodness weekend market with PayMaya QR, customers can now use contactless payments when they purchase homegrown produce and goods until July 30, 2020 –helping eliminate the risk of handling cash and making it easier and safer to support local businesses.  

LSIs get help from PLDT-Smart Foundation, Alagang Kapatid

Locally stranded individuals (LSIs), currently staying at the Philippine Ports Authority, recently received assistance from the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) and TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc. (AKFI) who paid them a visit and advised them on health protocols while distributing snack packs and raincoats.

“We hope to provide some comfort and nourishment to over 200 LSIs patiently waiting at the port area for a ship that could transport them to their respective homes in places such as Basilan, Jolo, Sulu, Cagayan De Oro, Butuan City, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Cebu,” said PSF President Ma. Esther O. Santos. 

DJ Khaled teams up with Drake on two new singles “Popstar” and “Greece”

What a surprise drop! GRAMMY® Award-winning multiplatinum artist, music industry visionary, innovative influencer, mogul, and mega-producer DJ Khaled has released not one, but two new singles with Canadian music superstar Drake.

The massive singles “POPSTAR” and “GREECE” set the stage for his for his twelfth full-length album and one of the most anticipated hip-hop events of 2020, Khaled Khaled—coming very soon. Using his given name, it marks his most personal and powerful body of work yet.

Khaled makes a statement with both of these blockbuster anthems. Over lavish production and a cinematic beat, “POPSTAR” reflects on each titan’s place in the game as modern-day superstars responsible for a successive string of hit records. Meanwhile, “GREECE” nods to the finer pleasures in life with its rich bounce and luxurious rhymes. These songs continue one of the most legendary collaborative brotherhoods in hip-hop history between Khaled and Drake. 

The two-punch release serves as their first team-up in three years, following the success of 2011’s “I’m on One,” 2013’s “No New Friends,” 2016’s “For Free” and 2017’s “To The Max.” 

DJ Khaled notably kicked off 2020 by winning a GRAMMY® Award in the category of Best Rap/Sung Performance for the gold-selling “Higher” [feat. Nipsey Hussle & John Legend], paving the way for a massive year.

Since launching his career two decades ago, DJ Khaled has sold 18 million singles and 5 million albums and generated 3 billion-plus streams. His discography encompasses eight gold singles, five platinum singles, and two double-platinum singles. 

He landed back-to-back #1 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 with the gold-selling Major Key in 2016 and platinum-certified GRAMMY® Award-nominated Grateful in 2017. The latter boasted the sextuple-platinum Billboard Hot 100 #1 “I’m The One” (feat. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, & Lil Wayne) and quadruple-platinum “Wild Thoughts” (feat. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller).

DJ Khaled’s “POPSTAR” and “GREECE” (Feat. Drake) are now available on all digital platforms worldwide via We The Best/Epic Records.

Juan Karlos inspires hope and strength amid the pandemic with their latest single, “BLESS Ü”

OPM hit-making band Juan Karlos (stylized juan karlos) channels their inner strength with their newest single, “BLESS Ü,” out on all digital and streaming worldwide this July 24, 2020 (Friday) via Island Records Philippines. The pop-R&B track delves into our collective toughness of spirit during these challenging times and hopes to ease some of our worries and fears.

The song’s uplifting message was something juan karlos strives to bring forth to the public whenever we’re faced with adversity, but more so and critically, during a health crisis with seemingly no end in sight right now. “The song, or at least the idea of it, was already made prior to the lockdown. Basically, it was just on standby. But when the pandemic happened, all gigs were cancelled,” frontman JK Labajo shares. “We thought it’d be a good idea to record something different from the music people are already familiar with from us.” While the circumstances then and now are vastly different, their intentions remain the same: finding hope. “Just hold on tight / For in the end of every tunnel / baby there’s light,” he croons.

Singapore’s top electronic producers and artists team up to honor XVAN with posthumous debut EP

Some of the biggest producers and artists in Singapore have come together to honor XVAN’s music by completing and releasing his work in a posthumous self-titled debut EP released via indie label Umami Records.

The upcoming all-star release will include collaborations with Evanturetime, MYRNE, Foxela, Brittle Bear, KNIGHTNDAE and Karena Yeo.

In 2018, XVAN’s debut single “What’s It?” caught the attention of international superstar producers Martin Garrix and Madison Mars who featured the song on their artist playlists. He went on to win a remix competition organized by MTV Asia and a coveted spot on Evanturetime's debut EP with his smooth rendition of the song ‘Sober’. 

Shortly after, XVAN passed away from cancer and left behind some unfinished demos. To honor XVAN’s artistic legacy, his peers in the music industry got together to rework the material and release it officially.

GMA Affordabox Unboxing and Review

GMA Network in celebration of their 70th anniversary rolls out the new GMA Affordabox which is their own digital TV receiver. Finally after so much speculation and anticipation from the public, they finally revealed and are now selling the Affordabox in key areas in which digital signal is present.

Though digital TV has been in the country for quite some time now, having a digi-box for a network helps in getting more viewers. GMA also expanded their frequency with 3 channels for the Kapuso network - GMA Network, GMA News TV, and Heart of Asia.  For only P888, the Affordabox also has some other features along with the digital TV reception. And these are:

The vowels they orbit explores emotional intricacies on debut EP

Filipino indie pop-rock outfit the vowels they orbit has finally released their highly anticipated EP, ang unang ikot via Sony Music Philippines.

With songs that find strength in vulnerability, the band’s major label debut expounds on the complexities of young love from the perspective of someone who has gone through several missteps and recoveries in life.  

Uniqlo Officially Launches Its Online Store In The Philippines

Japanese global apparel retailer, UNIQLO, officially launches its Online Store. Available on the UNIQLO website and its mobile application, the online store provides a faster and more convenient shopping experience to customers, complementing its network of retail locations across the Philippines.

“We are pleased to announce that everyone can now shop his favorite LifeWear pieces on UNIQLO’s mobile app and website. The launch of UNIQLO Online store stems from the brand’s commitment to bring LifeWear clothing more accessible to our customers nationwide. Our mission has always been about improving the lives of everyone through high quality clothing, outstanding level of service, and a unique shopping experience. We are deeply excited for our customers to enjoy the online store for themselves,” says Masayoshi Nakamura, COO, UNIQLO Philippines.

In the online store, customers can avail sizing from XS to 3XL on select items; pick up purchases in their preferred branch or have it delivered to their location nationwide; opt to pay in store via credit card (Visa/Mastercard/JCB/AMEX) and debit card (Visa/Mastercard); and check availability of items in other stores. For further information, customers can visit UNIQLO.com and download the UNIQLO mobile application.

The ‘New Normal’ for Fitness Enthusiasts - SFL launches 30-day Online Fitness Program

The COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of people to stay at home to prevent the spread of the virus. For fitness enthusiasts, this situation also means having no place to workout properly and regularly since most gyms have shut down indefinitely.  

In the past couple of months, we’ve seen that the e-commerce market for home fitness equipment is experiencing tremendous growth as people are going online to buy gym equipment—some are even being sold by fitness facilities. People have also been downloading workout apps or browse the web for home workout tutorials.

Asia CEO, World Vision launch CSR Company of the Year Award

The Asia CEO Awards (ACA) and World Vision Development Foundation (WVDF) are set to recognize organizations in the business community which have embraced and exemplified their commitment to society through corporate social responsibility (CSR).

WVDF National Director Rommel V. Fuerte said the child-focused humanitarian organization is delighted to launch the CSR Company of the Year award at the 11th Asia CEO Awards. 

Globe at Home Postpaid introduces new innovative promo plans

Recreate the world right at home with faster speeds, unli data and free devices

While the country has shifted to more relaxed quarantine guidelines, many still choose to stay at home, opting to use the internet to work, study, and entertain themselves. Globe at Home is empowering families across the country to recreate the world right at home with its new postpaid plans, bundled with exciting freebies and complimentary services.

PayMaya and beep™ team up to provide safer, contactless commute for all

Digital financial services leader PayMaya Philippines partners with beep™ to provide commuters a safer way to load up their beep™ cards.  

Commuters can enjoy a safe and contactless commute by simply purchasing their beep™ load packages on the PayMaya app. With this load up method, there is no longer a need for face-to-face interactions with the teller, as well as exchange of cash, which can contribute to the further spread of the virus.  

PayMaya users can choose among three beep™ load packages on their PayMaya app: P100, P250, and P500 with an additional P5 convenience fee. To buy a load package on PayMaya, simply follow these easy steps: 

Ben&Ben portrays family drama on “Nakikinig Ka Ba Sa Akin” music video

Award-winning Filipino band Ben&Ben explores the complicated dynamics of a fictional family in the music video of “Nakikinig Ka Ba Sa Akin.” 

Revolving around a realistic depiction of a family on the verge of dysfunction, the narrative hits home with each member learning how to listen to each other, and speak their minds.

It also examines the flawed but beautiful relationships that we nurture within the family, and the decisions we make in extraordinary circumstances.

Nilo Cruz Beauty Salon Opens Amidst The Pandemic

The global health crisis has indeed affected a lot of businesses and workers. But it also sparks opportunity to build a new brand which can thrive despite these trying times. Award winning Hair and Make Up Artist Nilo Cruz saw this as a perfect timing and made a bold move to put up a his own beauty salon business in the country.

Nilo is highly-recognized for his works in hair and make up for years in the Philippines and also has his own salon in Virginia, USA. Recently, Nilo was able to join the The Make Up Show in New York and train with Jake Aebly, one of NYC in-demand Make Up Artist and influencer of high end cosmetic brand. He also won the MMFF Best Make Up Artist Award back in 2012.

PayMaya Friday! Enjoy Fastfood This Weekend

After a tiring week, it is good to reward ourselves and loved ones with a weekend fastfood treat from your favorite restaurant using PayMaya.

If you’re planning to dine in, drive thru or order delivery from these establishments to get your fast food fix, you can easily #ScanToPay via PayMaya QR or Pay with your PayMaya number online for secure contactless payments–and even enjoy 1%, 10%, or 100% Balik Bayad for your payment!

Asia Pacific College and National University Venture into Online Learning with Globe Business

In preparation for the upcoming trimester, Asia Pacific College (APC) and National University (NU) partnered with Globe Business to offer free connectivity solutions through SchoolSURF Plans, Home Prepaid WiFi kits, and Load Up to enrollees.

“For education to work in an online environment, teachers and students must be able to interact in a way that’s similar to the face-to-face experience. Our collaboration with Globe Business will bring learning innovations and other opportunities to ensure flexible engagements,” said NU President Dr. Renato Carlos H. Ermita, Jr.

Visiting a doctor amid pandemic: If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate

The widespread panic and fear generated by COVID-19 have brought the world to a grinding halt with authorities imposing quarantine protocols.  

The pandemic has caused many Filipinos to hesitate to visit doctors’ clinics primarily due to the fear of contracting the virus outside their homes. Medical practitioners are now conducting teleconsultations or virtual consultations, allowing patients to have access to doctors through phone or video calls to mitigate the situation.

Shopee and Google Launch Google Ads with Shopee, a First-of-its-kind Marketing Solution for Brands to Drive Sales Online

Google Ads with Shopee offers specialized marketing support for brands to boost their e-commerce presence in Southeast Asia and Taiwan

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, teamed up with Google to launch Google Ads with Shopee, a first-of-its-kind marketing solution for brands to drive sales online. The launch reflects a shared commitment between Shopee and Google to accelerate digitization and enable e-commerce growth for brands across the region. Through this integration, brands on Shopee can access specialized marketing tools to boost their online presence, create deeper engagements with customers, and flexibly manage and measure their marketing campaigns.

Leading People Today

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unforeseen crisis that brought unprecedented uncertainty to companies globally. One such challenge is leading employees in a time of great upheaval. Companies have struggled with huge changes in their day-to-day operations as they tried to balance business continuity with the health and safety of their employees. 

In a recent webinar held by the British Chamber of Commerce, Jeffrey Johnson, Senior Vice President for Human Capital Resource Management of Teleperformance Philippines, shared several tips on how companies can adapt to this new normal in a way that would help motivate and ensure the wellness of their employees. 

Globe calls on Pinoys to consume only legal content online

The internet has become the main source of many copyright infringement content, impacting people and businesses involved in the production and distribution of legitimate materials and exposing consumers to malware and other cybersecurity threats.

The problem is further exacerbated by the pandemic as people are cooped up indoors and have to rely significantly on streaming or downloaded video, music, and games for entertainment. 

The latest report released by YouGov for the Asia Video Industry Association’s Coalition Against Piracy (AVIA CAP) showed that 66% of online Filipino consumers admitted having accessed piracy streaming sites and torrent sites, the highest percentage among eight Southeast Asian countries included in the survey.

Moreover, the number of Filipino consumers who purchased illegal streaming devices (ISDs) or a TV box to access pirated video-on-demand content and premium TV channels without paying subscription fees,  has jumped to 34% percent from 28% a year earlier. Of the 34% of consumers who purchased an ISD , more than half or 59% stated that they had cancelled all or some of their subscription to legal pay TV services. 

In addition to the short-term problem of cancelled subscriptions is a longer term problem – many of the people streaming pirated content are young. The survey found that 45% of 18-24 year-olds and 46% of 25-34 year olds used ISDs or other apps or services to view infringing entertainment content.

“In no uncertain terms, piracy is theft.  It puts the creative and film industry at risk.  It also puts the livelihood of people working in the industry at risk.  On top of these, piracy also puts data privacy and devices at risk because many unscrupulous persons use these sites to hack devices to obtain personal information.  For these reasons, we encourage our customers to watch content using legitimate sources only,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.

In the ASEAN region, one of the known initiatives to help curb piracy is through site blocking.  Countries such as Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia have been successfully doing this practice.  In the Philippines,  Senate Bill No. 497 entitled the ‘Philippine Online Infringement Act’ was filed by Senator Vicente Sotto III last year.  The pending bill proposes an administrative site blocking mechanism which would empower the authorities to ensure that Internet Service Providers take “reasonable steps to disable access to sites whenever these sites are reported to be infringing copyright or facilitating copyright infringement”.  

Neil Gane, General Manager of AVIA CAP said, “Site blocking is a key tool in disrupting the availability of piracy websites and the illicit revenues that are generated by crime groups who operate these sites. An effective site blocking process is a win-win for all Filipinos, resulting in many consumers migrating back to reliable and safe legal services with quality content.”

He added:  “Content piracy is not a victimless crime and often it’s the users who become victims. Piracy is a hotbed for malware. Unfortunately, the appetite for free and accessing stolen content via piracy websites or illicit streaming devices blinkers some consumers from the real risks of malicious malware infection such as spyware.”

As the Philippines’ leading advocate against online piracy, Globe, through its #PlayItRight campaign, continuously sends a strong message to the public to consume digital content the right way.  #PlayItRight is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals that Globe is supporting, namely:  UNSDG No. 8 - decent work and economic growth, No. 9 - industry, innovation, and infrastructure, and No. 17 - partnerships.

To protect the intellectual property rights of the company's own original content as well as the licensed content of its global and local partners, Globe makes it easy for its customers to access premium content using direct carrier billing.  It is a mobile payment option that allows Globe mobile customers to download and purchase digital content like games, movies, music, eBooks, apps, among others from Google Play Store and charge them to their Prepaid balance or Postpaid account.  Globe also offers mobile promos that give free connectivity to such content.

In 2014, Globe changed how Filipinos consumed music by introducing Spotify, ending the culture of illegally downloading mp3 music from illegal sources. Today, Globe remains as a preferred partner for content distribution by global, regional, and local entertainment brands and now produces its own original content through Globe Studios.

To learn more about Globe’s sustainability efforts, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/about-us/sustainability.html#gref  

Get a chance to win the Samsung Galaxy S20+ BTS Edition and more at the Smart’s K-Quiz Night on July 18

Attention K-pop and K-drama fans! Here’s your chance to win the much anticipated BTS Edition Samsung Galaxy S20+ with Smart’s K-Quiz Night on July 18, Saturday at 8 p.m.

Aside from the Samsung Galaxy S20+ BTS Edition, also up for grabs are Samsung Galaxy Buds+ BTS Edition.

To join, simply tune into the live online show to be hosted by Patricia Prieto on Smart’s Facebook page.

Access a Universe of Amazing Exclusive Deals with ZRewards

You deserve a reward! Beginning July 15, everyone will have a chance to unlock exciting and exclusive freebies and discounts never offered before by today's hottest and biggest brands courtesy of ZRewards by Zeal. 

ZRewards by Zeal is the country’s newest one-stop shop for awesome deals. Through their website, users from all over the Philippines can grab hold of premium and solid offers redeemable at their favorite online shops and physical stores. Best of all, there’s no strings attached. Membership is free, so the entire family can join in on the fun. 

Revamp Your Home with Awesome Products from the Shopee Super Gadget Zone Sale

On July 15, shoppers can get up to 90% off discount on selected items. 

Do you want to increase your productivity as you work from home during this period? Give your home a grand makeover with Shopee! Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, launches Shopee Super Gadget Zone Sale with up to 90% off discounts from brands such as Iwata, Union, and Avision. 

As more Filipinos continue to work, play, and shop from home, Shopee is offering consumers a one-day-only grand sale for all their electronics, gadgets, and appliances needs. Here are some must-have items for each room of the house: 

CONNECT with investors, enablers, suppliers, and potential customers with Globe myBusiness Academy

In every post-COVID discussion for small businesses, we’re sure you’ve heard it all: Digitizing, pivoting and future-proofing your business are essential. The question is: how do you actually digitize, pivot, and future-proof? Who can you approach to answer all your questions - and actually bridge the gap between bouncing back in theory, and doing it?

As entrepreneurs, we are struggling to navigate during these challenging times. It’s crucial to invest in the right resources with a concrete fool-proof way forward so that we can survive and eventually thrive.

Catch the Shopee Payday Sale TV Segment on Eat Bulaga and Wowowin for a Chance to Win ₱50,000 Cash Prize

On July 15, users and viewers can win cash prizes and grab exclusive deals from leading brands on Shopee Payday Sale 

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, celebrates Payday Sale with Shopee segments on Wowowin and Eat Bulaga. On July 15, users and viewers can enjoy fun and rewarding games, grab ₱99-peso deals, and win cash prizes of up to ₱50,000. 

Indie Singer-Songwriter VANNA Releases Brand New Single ‘Voices’ Via Umami Records

Indie Singer-Songwriter VANNA Releases Brand New Single ‘Voices’ Via Umami Records

Israeli singer-songwriter VANNA has finally dropped ‘Voices,’ the third single from her debut EP ‘High Hopes’ via Singapore based indie label Umami Records. 

Produced by Roy Avital of Tel Aviv based indie-electronic trio Garden City Movement and mastered by Matt Colton (James Blake, Muse, Coldplay), ‘Voices’ takes pride of its deeply melodic and hauntingly atmospheric folktronica production. Made more vulnerable with captivating vocals, the song is about VANNA’s experience in overcoming the voices and troubles inside her head.

Shopee Sees Growth In Digital Payments as Filipinos Adjust to the New Normal

While 70% of purchases made through digital payments were by younger users, Shopee also saw an increased adoption among users aged over 50

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, saw an acceleration in digital payments as Filipinos fulfill more daily needs online amidst the ongoing pandemic. Shopee saw an increase in the number of digital payments made on the platform since the beginning of the pandemic. More people paid for their purchases via credit cards, bank transfers, and ShopeePay. According to a Boston Consulting Group report, this trend will continue as more Southeast Asian households embrace digital payments during and after Covid-19.

National Artist Maestro Ryan Cayabyab leads top OPM artists in FREE virtual benefit concert with PLDT Home

National Artist for Music Maestro Ryan Cayabyab top bills the FREE virtual benefit concert of PLDT Home themed “At Home with PLDT: No Learner Left Behind,” in partnership with PLDT-Smart Foundation on July 14, 2020. 

With the aim to raise funds to address the needs of students, teachers, and schools nationwide as they face the new normal in online distance learning, PLDT Home hosts the livestream concert that will gather Filipino musical artists and OPM icons such as, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid alongside husband, Ogie, Martin Nievera, and Pops Fernandez. The concert will be hosted by comedian and theater actor Jon Santos and directed by the award-winning concert director, Paolo Valenciano. Viewers will likewise be serenaded with OPM favorites and timeless music by musical theater artists including 8 Taal Ensemble, Sheila Valderama, Yanah Laurel, Lara Maigue, Gabriela Pangilinan, Gian Magdangal, Arman Ferrer, Flord Tena, and David Ezra.