PLDT-Smart fully restores telco services in Bicol region following series of typhoons

PLDT wireless unit Smart has fully restored mobile services in the entire Bicol region after it was battered by two strong typhoons this month. Super Typhoon Rolly was the first to pummel the region early in November with strong winds and torrential rains.

In a tweet, MVP Group chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan attributed this to the engineers and technicians who worked tirelessly to ensure that communication lines will be back in no time. “Our brave linemen of Meralco and PLDT-Smart have been working 24/7 to restore power and telco services in the Bicol region after a series of typhoons hit the Philippines,” Pangilinan said. 

Nokia Is Finally On Shopee! Preorder The Nokia 3.4 Now!

Nokia is back in the smartphone market, and they are introducing smartphones now running on android and at competitive prices. Known as the leading mobile brand for many years, Nokia has gone through many changes, and even odd designs for their phones. They might have lost the top spot for a while but they are now coming back with new models and even classics that will entice consumers to go back.

This December, Nokia makes a comeback and now has their own official store in Shopee. And with this milestone, they will also have a special promotion with the exclusive launch of the Nokia 3.4 on Shopee from November 30 - December 6 .

Intelligent Sound, Redefined: How the Huawei FreeBuds Pro Elevate Audio Experiences

Far from the curious novelties they were a few years ago, wireless earphones are now fairly ubiquitous as far as consumer tech goes, with pretty much every tech company pumping out their own take on tangle-free audio solutions. Huawei being the innovator from day one, takes its True Wireless Stereo (TWS) game a step further this year in crafting the Huawei FreeBuds Pro.

This latest addition to the FreeBuds line aims to redefine how people listen to their music, conversations, and other aural activities by engineering the Pro as ingeniously as possible. Check out how these stylish wireless earbuds enhance every audio experience:

Papel ni Juan Helps Public School Students Through Affordable Paper

The public education sector is one of the most affected industries during the pandemic. Many students rely on self-learning modules (SLM) to get by schooling at home, but due to high production costs, there’s a shortage of SLMs.  Up to four students end up sharing a module.

Papel ni Juan, a proudly Filipino brand of multi-purpose bond paper, is a brand with a purpose. With an affordable price point at only P130/ream, the brand wants to make paper accessible to everyone— starting from the students who are in dire need of their own SLMs. 

917Ventures launches venture incubation program in SEA

917Ventures, the country’s largest corporate incubator, has launched a regional venture incubation program dedicated to giving prospective builders and other talents the opportunity to build successful businesses in the areas of e-commerce, fintech, healthtech, and adtech. 

Called Velocity, the program seeks to gather the best innovators in Southeast Asia with an initial grant of up to $50,000 (roughly P2.4 million).  Talents who manage to build a meaningful product with proven traction will continue in the venture development journey through a seed round, with the ultimate goal of spinning off as an independent entity. Up to 10 finalists will be selected to partake in this exclusive program. 

“We have structured Velocity in a way that really puts talents first. We’re here to support and help venture builders create successful businesses that would progress on to ultimately becoming a standalone entity with bright growth prospects. We aim to support venture builders in their journey to realizing their dreams and thus, encourage interested parties to build their first unicorn with us,” said Vince Yamat, 917Ventures’ Managing Director.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year is made even Brighter with HUAWEI’s Together 2021 Christmas Promo

It’s no secret that 2020 has been quite a challenge for all of us. But despite the setbacks, HUAWEI knows that this is still everyone’s favorite season that is filled with warmth, joy, and of course – the spirit of giving. This year has also been quite a challenge for us at HUAWEI, as well. However, we have also marked this year with tech triumphs of launches of our new innovative products which have topped benchmark in terms of sales and support from our customers, fans, and industry partners.

To celebrate the season, HUAWEI is launching the Together 2021 Christmas Promotions which aims to allow you to be in touch with break-through devices that bring ease, convenience and connectivity into your life with the HUAWEI Ecosystem. 

HUAWEI devices now come with extraordinary and amazing gifts that you will love! This is our way of showing our gratitude with our very own gifts bundled up with your favorite top  HUAWEI devices. Read on to find out more!

Global superstar Jason Derulo teams up with Nuka on future pop smash “Love Not War”

After topping the charts and going viral in the Philippines and the rest of the world with the infectious bop “Savage Love,” global superstar Jason Derulo returns with another future smash. The multi-platinum pop artist joins forces with Nuka on brand new single “Love Not War (The Tampa Beat),”—out now on Robots + Humans/Columbia Records. The hypnotic siren-infused instrumental finds Jason Derulo in his element, singing over tropical beats and summery, pulsating rhythms.

With a staggering 40 million followers across TikTok, Derulo is the biggest musician across the platform. The undeniably catchy yet enigmatic instrumental from 19-year-old New Caledonian producer Nuka captured the attention of many and amassed over 200 billion impressions worldwide. 

Smart brings 2020 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball to subscribers via exclusive livestream on Dec. 11

Watch Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, Shawn Mendez and more at GigaFest. Smart Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. is pulling out all the stops to give Filipinos a giga-sized Christmas celebration as it brings the highly anticipated 2020 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball to subscribers through an exclusive livestream on the GigaFest.Smart portal on December 11, Friday, at 10 a.m. (Philippine Time).

Taking the stage at the 2020 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball are some of today’s chart-topping and award-winning artists including Billie Eilish, Doja Cat, Dua Lipa, Harry Styles, Lewis Capaldi, Sam Smith, and Shawn Mendes, who will perform their hits as well as never-before-heard covers of iconic holiday songs.

This year’s iHeartRadio Jingle Ball will also be more intimate and personal as artists will sing from their own homes and share some of their holiday traditions in between performances – a departure from the ball’s previous big concert venues such as the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Diamond-Certified, Grammy-Nominated Bebe Rexha Unveils "Baby, I'm Jealous" featuring Doja Cat

Diamond-certified, Grammy-nominated, Global Superstar Bebe Rexha teams up with Doja Cat for a stormy new single and video, “Baby, I’m Jealous,” that explores the insecurities of living in a digital age. Slinking synth work and a shivering bassline set the stage for an intoxicating pop bop about the perils of scrolling endlessly through social media.

Rexha wrote, and sings, about the negativity the modern era often imposes on people—envy, rage, self-doubt—but the single isn’t dark and brooding. “Baby, I’m Jealous” is funky, playful, and confident, even before Doja Cat sideswipes the song with a few gleeful bars aimed squarely at society’s expectations for women (“Waste trainer for a tinier waist / But I can’t help if I like the way food taste”). According to Rexha, it’s all about taking ownership of those complex emotions.  

"The Boss Baby" Sequel "Family Business" Reveals Trailer

There’s a new boss, baby. Check out the first official trailer of DreamWorks Animation’s The Boss Baby: Family Business  and watch the film in Philippine cinemas 2021.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uipmoviesph/videos/848986719204643

YouTube: https://youtu.be/q2oJ0ShkrIw

In the sequel to DreamWorks Animation’s Oscar®-nominated blockbuster comedy The Boss Baby, the Templeton brothers—Tim (James Marsden, X-Men franchise) and his Boss Baby little bro Ted (Alec Baldwin)—have become adults and drifted away from each other. Tim is now a married stay-at-home dad. Ted is a hedge fund CEO. But a new boss baby with a cutting-edge approach and a can-do attitude is about to bring them together again … and inspire a new family business.

Tim and his wife, Carol (Eva Longoria), the breadwinner of the family, live in the suburbs with their super-smart 7-year-old daughter Tabitha (Ariana Greenblatt, Avengers: Infinity War), and adorable new infant Tina (Amy Sedaris, Netflix’s BoJack Horseman). Tabitha, who’s at the top her class at the prestigious Acorn Center for Advanced Childhood, idolizes her Uncle Ted and wants to become like him, but Tim, still in touch with his overactive youthful imagination, worries that she’s working too hard and is missing out on a normal childhood.

PayMaya teams up with Amazon.com in major milestone for Philippine customers

Looking to shop online for awesome deals on Black Friday this November? Well, look no further—use your PayMaya to enjoy discounts at Amazon.com during this much-awaited annual shopping event.  

When you shop on Amazon.com using your PayMaya virtual or physical card from 4:00 PM on November 27 to 3:59 PM on December 1, 2020, you can get a 15% discount of up to USD$25 on top of the amazing deals you can find on the site! All you have to do is enter your shipping address in the Philippines and use the discount code PYMY15 upon checkout for a minimum purchase of USD$50 (before taxes, shipping and fees). 

PayMaya is the first Philippine eWallet to collaborate with Amazon.com, offering an even more rewarding experience to Filipino customers.  

Sarah G, Julie Ann San Jose, Gloc-9 and other OPM artists brought the “saya” in TNT Saya Fest Concert

Mobile services brand TNT brought the ‘saya’ to subscribers and netizens with its biggest online event this year, Saya Fest last November 21.

Headlined by Popstar Royalty and TNT endorser Sarah Geronimo, the online event also featured performances by some of the country’s top artists, and saya-filled segments such as raffle for subscribers and games with popular content creators - streamed on the TNT Facebook Page.

Hosted by Tuesday Vargas, the show opened with young stars Ronnie Alonte and Loisa Andalio dancing to TNT’s catchy jingle “Nasa Saya Yan,” setting the mood for the event’s fun-filled program, which aimed to bring happiness to Filipinos amid the pandemic.

Smart powers PhilPop 2020’s search for next OPM hits

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. continues to champion Original Pilipino Music (OPM) by supporting the 2020 PhilPop songwriting tilt. 

Pushing forward amid limitations of a worldwide pandemic, PhilPop Festival Chair Ryan Caybyab shared, “We’ve planned for this year’s festival way back in 2019 when COVID-19 was nowhere in sight. When the pandemic hit us, we had to make a huge pivot in terms of the execution of most ideas, many of which were originally envisioned to happen in the usual, traditional in-person platform.” 

Emotional frailty as source of strength: Get to know PhilPop’s Metro Manila entries

PhilPop, the country’s premier songwriting competition, makes another huge comeback with an exemplary batch of music entries from the National Capital Region.

With a diverse showcase of sounds spanning R&B, contemporary pop and folk-influenced genres, the latest roster offers catchy, radio-friendly fodders that tackle romance, forgiveness, and regret with precision and sensitivity. 

ING launches payment account that promises maximum flexibility and security so customers can ‘do their thing’

• ING Pay gives customers more flexibility and security in managing their finances, offering them a solution to transact and keep their debit cards securely via the ING mobile app
• Easy way to transact with pre-enrolled billers and free instant fund transfers 
• 5%* cashback on all valid purchases using the ING Pay cards until December 31, 2020

ING Philippines announced the launch of its payment account “ING Pay” that is designed to make everyday payments more convenient and secure especially during a time when these activities are increasingly done digitally.

Doing things at home whether that is for work, business, or personal needs has changed the way people manage their many commitments. It has also given us time to pick up a new hobby or even explore further that thing we have always wanted to do again at home, whether that is gardening, writing, baking, or even focus on other interests or things that we are passionate about.

Give back and win big every time you pay with PayMaya!

Give and receive this Christmas with PayMayaguinaldo

This Christmas, PayMaya is offering Filipinos more rewards as it launches its "PayMayaguinaldo" campaign, where users have a chance to win as much as 1 million pesos in the Grand raffle draw and an opportunity to help micro entrepreneurs around the country. Users also have a chance to win up to P285,000 worth of prizes to be given away in the weekly raffle draws from today until January 10, 2021.

By going cashless, you can easily earn a raffle entry every time you #ScanToPay via PayMaya QR at any of their partner merchants, use your PayMaya-registered mobile number when you buy items online, or purchase prepaid load and other treats at the PayMaya in-app shop with a minimum of P100 purchase.

Every time you pay with PayMaya, you not only earn a raffle entry to win cash prizes, you also get a chance to help fellow Filipinos. With each purchase, you are also giving a PayMayaguinaldo to help micro entrepreneurs in underprivileged communities as PayMaya will also be donating a P1 million Grand Aguinaldo to Gawad Kalinga to help establish more resilient communities via micro-entrepreneurship around the country.  

realme grabs PH top 1 smartphone brand slot in just 2 years

Multiple reports by Canalys, Counterpoint Research, and IDC show the two-year-old brand’s dominance in Q3 2020

realme Philippines claims the number 1 spot in the country’s smartphone market, recording triple-digit growth in Q3 2020 -- a feat the brand achieved in just two years. International market research firms Canalys, IDC and Counterpoint Research all confirm the two-year-old brand’s local market lead in their Q3 reports.

Global market intelligence firm IDC reported realme Philippines achieved staggering 962.5 percent annual growth and captured 25.4 percent local market share this third quarter.

GCash raises P20.8M for Typhoon Ulysses relief ops

GCash, the undisputed leader and preferred mobile wallet in the Philippines, has raised a total amount of P20,825,695.23 in donations from its #UlyssesPHAid and #TulongCagayan campaigns aimed at helping victims of Typhoon Ulysses that pummeled many parts of the country in the recent weeks. 

Leveraging its mobile-first technology, GCash led the digital relief efforts, launching two donation drives to send help to those who were affected by Typhoon Ulysses.

A third of the total P20.8-million donation amount came from the #TulongCagayan campaign, and the rest were from #UlyssesPHAid.

All proceeds from the donation drives go to typhoon relief programs of GCash for Good partner NGOs, namely Unicef, Philippine Red Cross, ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya, Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, Save the Children, World Vision, and Gawad Kalinga. 

UE Jam Sessions pay it forward with a music video of Gloc-9 and Jenny Legaspi’s inspirational anthem

UE Jam Sessions has finally debuted the music video of “Lalaban Tayo” (The Renewal of Honors), featuring one of the most prominent Filipino rap icons, Gloc-9. Initially premiered on Apple Music, Spotify, and Deezer, the video has been making rounds on YouTube since last night, November 22 at exactly 7pm. 

Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences during the pandemic, UE-student dancers appeared throughout the music video with their unique interpretation on the material. 

Taking the lead: MVP Group sharpens focus on environment and sustainability projects in pandemic

While the global COVID-19 pandemic has forced most businesses to deprioritize non-essential sectors, the MVP Group of Companies has maintained its thrust for social responsibility, particularly with efforts related to environmental protection and sustainability.

MVP Group Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan says that despite the urgency of addressing concerns related to COVID-19, environmental protection must never take a back seat as climate change and other environmental concerns pose even greater dangers to human life.

“Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has already been facing daunting challenges on how to protect our environment and promote more equitable social development. If we don’t act now or even pause what we have already started, we might reach a point where we are no longer able to protect ourselves from the irreversible effects of environmental destruction. As a conglomerate that champions innovation and social responsibility in all our fields of business, we recognize the significance of our role in making a positive impact and contribute to the sustainable development of our country, people, and planet,” Pangilinan said.

We Got delves into the unconscious with reggae anthem “Cindy”

Eight-piece reggae collective We Got serves another sun-dappled jam in the form of new single “Cindy”—out today on all digital platforms worldwide.

Delving into the unconscious with tropical instrumentation and laid-back horn arrangement, We Got gives us a taste of Jamaica on this swinging love anthem about an imaginary character that exists in the minds of those who choose to dream about her. 

In a statement shared by the band’s vocalist Mack Dela Cruz, “Cindy” was described as a song about people who daydream, and whose dream felt like an endless loop. “There are sequences that happen over and over. This song is dedicated to those who want to have something that could give them ‘inspiration’ even though they know their dreams haven't been realized yet.”

Transformative power of 5G seen to impact PH education, health and entertainment sectors

Globe Telecom believes that making 5G technology available and accessible to more customers all over the Philippines will spur further the evolution of the Filipino digital lifestyle especially in the areas of education, health and entertainment sectors.

Even before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the potential benefits of 5G technology have been expected to change how people communicate, conduct  business and transform lifestyles, including delivery of services from e-business to e-government.  

Nine months into the global pandemic has pushed people to adopt and even trust  technology today as an enabler of life choices. 5G is expected to revolutionize distance learning by having more interactive ways of teaching, and in future, using artificial intelligence for continuous learning.  With 5G, education is expected to take another turn in the new normal with more than 27 million students and  teachers facing the challenges of online learning for the first time in the country’s history.

Bangkok Music City, reimagined for virus-ridden 2020, announces ace fest lineup

There’s no stopping the Bangkok Music City train. With cautious (but no less adventurous) tack, the Thailand-based festival-conference is refashioning what it does best for a COVID-19 year. The same elements that have endeared BMC to its supporters are still very much around, but in lieu of its signature staging at creative district Chareonkrung, it will be livestreamed on November 28-29, 2020—for Thailand-based showcase talents at least—from co-working hub Glowfish Sathorn. “I think that the COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for virtual music events, whether conferences, concerts, gigs or festivals,” says festival co-founder Piyapong ‘Py’ Muenprasertdee. “Even though physical is still the best way to experience live music, virtual solutions help make things more cost-effective and efficient,” he adds.

BRIA Homes continues to show resilience amid the challenges of 2020

Filipinos dream of moving into affordable houses 
and lots in residential projects that offer security and stability.

As the year 2020 rolls towards the end, we look back at the incredibly challenging times our country—and people—have endured in the past months: from the phreatic eruption of Taal Volcano to the ongoing Coronavirus-2019 pandemic to the series of super typhoons that recently ravaged regions that stood in their path.

However, despite the global contagion causing major disruptions in businesses and industries, we are gratified to note that some sectors have readily bounced back, with a few finding new opportunities in the crisis.

The Philippine real estate industry is one. Reports from the ground disclose that homebuilders that quickly adjusted to marketing innovations have remained relatively stable. Industry resilience is likewise credited to low interest rates and the Filipinos’ constant pursuit of their dream home. This affirms that residential properties are secure, tangible assets that are resistant to the whims of the times, including pandemics and weather disturbances. 

Early Black Friday Deals You Need To Check Out

Start buying your Christmas gifts now—they’re on sale on Shopee for up to 70% off this November 23-29!

We all know what it's like to have a long Christmas list and a limited budget. This week, grab the chance to finish your Christmas shopping without overspending! 

Start looking for the best deals and discounted products to add to your shopping cart. From November 23 to 29, Shopee is offering deals up to 70% off. Watch out for Shopee’s big Black Friday sale on November 27 as well.

MVP Group mobilizes support to areas hit by Typhoon Ulysses; Chairman MVP praises frontliners for ‘pagmamalasakit’

The MVP Group, which is composed of the companies under the leadership of Manuel V Pangilinan, pours in support to families affected by Typhoon Ulysses (international name: Vamco).    

“We salute you, our brave men and women across the MVP Group, for tirelessly helping our fellow kababayans. In a pandemic, that is heroism. Salamat sa inyong pagmamalasakit,” Pangilinan said.   

“Tuluy-tuloy po tayo sa paghahatid ng tulong at pag-asa sa ating mga kababayan (We will continue to provide help and hope to our fellow countrymen),” Pangilinan added.   

Get Ready To Order The Huawei GT2 Pro on Shopee

One of the hottest smartwatches in the market is the HUAWEI WATCH GT 2 Pro.   This watch is already making waves with its features such as the 1.39” AMOLED screen, waterproof protection (up to 5ATM), Two-week battery life, and a SpO2 monitor. 

Made from premium materials (Sapphire surface, Titanium body, Ceramic rear case), it also has the classic circular watch design which gives an elegant and luxury feel. And being a smartwatch also brings a lot of health and fitness features that makes it stand out from it competitors.

The Christmas Spirit Endure At SM Supermalls

Despite this year that has been challenging for all of us, the spirit of Christmas continues to live with SM Supermalls. As every year we look forward to the colorful and fun decorations that brings out the festive ambiance of the malls, shops, stores, and amenities, the pandemic has greatly affected most of our lives and might have expected things to be less magical. But SM wants to continue to tradition and wants to make the public feel that Christmas continues and their locations nationwide will also show that vibe.

Legendary German Artist Nils Frahm brings intimate concert experience to screen

A legendary artist at a legendary location: Globally acclaimed composer and record producer Nils Frahm takes the center stage of an upcoming concert film shot primarily in Funkhaus Berlin. Tripping with Nils Frahm, a visual extravaganza that features stunning live footage of Frahm’s world tour and intimate performance at one of the city’s most iconic buildings, will premiere globally online on December 3, 2020. An accompanying live album will be released on the same day. 

Produced by LEITER in association with PLAN B ENTERTAINMENT (owned by Academy Award winners Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, and Jeremy Kleine a.k.a. the team behind Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave, Selma), the film bring his highly acclaimed album All Melody to the stage, playing more than 180 sold-out performances including at the Sydney Opera House, LA’s Disney Hall, the Barbican in London, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, and several big festivals stages around the globe over the next two years. Yet the stunning setting of Funkhaus Berlin, renowned for its vintage grandeur and outstanding acoustics, and also home to Frahm’s magnificent studio where All Melody was recorded, had occupied a unique place in the artist's heart. 

Give back and win big every time you pay with PayMaya!

Give and receive this Christmas with PayMayaguinaldo

This Christmas, PayMaya is offering Filipinos more rewards as it launches its "PayMayaguinaldo" campaign, where users have a chance to win as much as 1 million pesos in the Grand raffle draw and an opportunity to help micro entrepreneurs around the country. Users also have a chance to win up to P285,000 worth of prizes to be given away in the weekly raffle draws from today until January 10, 2021.

By going cashless, you can easily earn a raffle entry every time you #ScanToPay via PayMaya QR at any of their partner merchants, use your PayMaya-registered mobile number when you buy items online, or purchase prepaid load and other treats at the PayMaya in-app shop with a minimum of P100 purchase.

TV5's 'Primetime Todo' Introduces Groundbreaking Shows

TV5 is beefing up its primetime with a lot of new shows that will elevate the TV viewing experience of their audience. As they also welcome new stars from other networks, the diversity is now seen with the roster of shows that will air weekly and feature stories that are fresh and probably groundbreaking.

For this feat, TV5 made a partnership with Cignal TV and commissioned Archangel Media to bring Ate ng Ate Ko & Carpool, Cornerstone Entertainment for Stay-in Love, and Viva Entertainment to bring Bella Bandida and Kagat ng Dilim.

MOMOLAND gears for global superstardom with sparkly new single “Ready Or Not”

Korean girl group MOMOLAND aims for global domination with the release of their glossy banger “Ready Or Not.” In collaboration with rap superstar PSY, the pop sensation’s new single coincides with the band’s fourth anniversary in the music industry.

MOMOLAND’s third single “Ready Or Not” contains three songs, including the title track “Ready Or Not” and a special track titled “Merry Go Round.”

Following the success of “BBoom BBoom,” “BAAM” and “Thumbs Up” in the Philippines, Korea, China, Japan, and the rest of Asia, MOMOLAND is gearing up for another mega-hit that will surely captivate the audience—thanks to its catchy chorus and vibrant mood.

Listen to children’s experiences of COVID-19 - UNICEF

his year’s anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the most widely ratified human rights treaty in the world, takes place during one of the most challenging moments for the fulfilment of children’s rights in the Philippines. The COVID-19 pandemic, combined with a threatening typhoon season, have upended thousands of children’s lives and has left many more children uncertain about their future.

Children face a trifecta of threats: direct consequences of the disease itself, interruption in essential services and increasing poverty and inequality.

UPRISING goes full throttle in last salvo for 2020 with brand-new releases and website launch for 7th anniversary

In the last 7 years, independent record label UPRISING has been in the forefront of hip-hop in the Philippines, with members located across the country and in North America and dedicated audiences spanning the globe. Despite the unprecedented challenges brought upon by the 2020 pandemic, UPRISING is not yet done with the year: the label is due to put out a string of highly anticipated releases and a new website for hip-hop fans, new and old.

UPRISING began 2020 with The FlipTop Festival, the premiere and massively popular music gathering in the country, back in March: headlined by its full roster and guest artists from across the Philippines, drawing thousands of fans to witness a celebration of hip-hop culture and solidarity just before the nation grinded into a halt. A steady stream of music releases continued—numerous singles, music videos, and albums—supported by live online battles and performances, the most recent of which was representing the country in the ASEAN Music Showcase Festival’s inaugural edition online. 

Globe launches financial care program for postpaid customers

Telecommunications has never been as important as it is today as learning, work, and entertainment mostly shift to online platforms. Understanding the importance of connectivity especially under the new normal, Globe is offering its customers a financial care program that enables them to remain connected despite the challenges brought to their livelihood by the pandemic.

The program offers are built according to the needs of the customers, thus, there are customized options that allow Globe Consumer Postpaid, Platinum, and Broadband subscribers to maintain their account depending on their financial situation. They may be given options to lower their plan, disconnect their account temporarily, or transfer the ownership, among others.

GCash overtakes popular brands such as Netflix, Tiktok in local app rankings

Being the top finance app in the Philippines currently, GCash has also emerged as one of the top digital brands in the Philippines overtaking popular apps such as Netflix, Twitter, Grab, and even TikTok. 

Data rankings from App Annie, a reputable global app ranking authority, showed that GCash was among the top apps in terms of active users from January to September 2020 in both Android and iOS, and have registered a whopping 130 percent app active user growth in September compared to the beginning of the year.

GCash also noted that monthly downloads in the recent months have peaked to up to 270 percent as compared to early 2020.

This new data from App Annie reinforces GCash’s stronghold as the No. 1 digital finance app in the country. With this, GCash, a proud Filipino digital brand, proved that it can fare well against top global brands and is now embedded in the everyday digital lifestyle of Filipinos. 

Datu Puti pursues Plastic Neutrality with Plastic Credit Exchange

NutriAsia, the country’s leading producer and distributor of sauces and condiments including Datu Puti, UFC, Golden Fiesta, and Locally, is joining Plastic Credit Exchange (PCEx) to attain plastic neutral certification for its Datu Puti brand.

A step toward the company’s climate change goals, NutriAsia has pledged to make the entire Datu Puti product portfolio plastic neutral, which entails offsetting 100% of its plastic footprint over the last year and for the future. This means calculating the plastic usage in Datu Puti’s bottles, bottle caps, cap seals, and stand-up pouches, then through PCEx, diverting the equivalent amount of post-consumer plastic from nature. Datu Puti commits to achieving a net-zero plastic footprint by 2021.

James Reid on how to unlock your inner trailblazer

What does it take to be a trailblazer?

For actor, singer-songwriter and producer James Reid, it’s all about having the guts and the willpower to pursue one’s vision or dream, something he’s all too familiar with. Starting out in showbiz ten years ago, James has broken the mold of what it is to be a celebrity today, pursuing projects that allow him to freely express his creativity and reach his potential. For him, blazing a trail means more than just following desires, but also leads to a discovery of the self, and more adventures and opportunities that await him.

How vivo hoped to inspire passion, creativity through 2020 smartphones, campaigns

As it was for most, 2020 was an unprecedented year for leading global technology company vivo insofar as jampacked physical events and huge-venue product launches are concerned.

It has been a challenge to mount buzz-worthy events with the community quarantine restrictions but vivo seems to have made a seamless transition towards digital, as evidenced by its slew of launches, online activities, and the top-spot Canalys ranking awarded recently.

This stellar achievement can be attributed to the innovative, industry-leading, and stylish smartphones they produced and released this year, their meaningful and inspiring campaigns that go along with each smartphone release, the “first-of-its-kind” digital events they streamed, and their ambassadors who have truly embodied and echoed vivo’s calls for millennials to continue to pursue passions, master the art of clarity, and unleash creativity.

Rocksteddy drops their latest single “Wag Mo Akong Iiwan”

Being stuck at home for months has not stopped four-piece alternative rock outfit Rocksteddy from creating music. Although it has been difficult for musicians to write, record, and polish their own songs, the Lagi Mo Na Lang Akong Dinededma collective still managed to make it work.

“Isolation has been a challenge,” guitarist Juven Pelingon said. “Through video platform, live streaming is the best way to connect with other artists and fans. Everyone was forced to write and record their new material separately, but we’ve made the most of what we have.” 

With this creative endeavor comes a brand-new single that will surely resonate with a lot of music fans. “Wag Mo Akong Iiwan,” the band’s latest offering talks about the challenges of maintaining a love that’s slowly dimming in the process. “It’s about the hardships of maintaining and choosing to love each other till the end,” vocalist Teddy Corpuz shared. “But most importantly it talks about hope and not giving up on each other. Feeling ko sakto rin ‘yung song sa panahon ngayon na maraming relationships ang nasisira at nasusubukan because of the pandemic.”

Zaijian Jaranilla is ‘Boyette’

Star Cinema launches Zaijian Jaranilla as a movie star

Make way for Zaijian Jaranilla as he topbills Star Cinema’s new coming-of-age comedy film ‘Boyette.’

After playing remarkable characters on television since 2009, including “Santino” of the hit series ‘May Bukas Pa,’ “Noah” in the series of the same title, and “Liksi” of ‘Bagani,’ Zaijian is now launched as a new movie actor to be watched out for as the film production arm brings ‘Boyette.’

Shopee Partners with KonsultaMD to Offer Filipinos Online Medical Consultations

KonsultaMD officially launches on Shopee on December 1

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, partners with KonsultaMD, a subscription-based telehealth service, to provide Filipinos affordable healthcare subscriptions and a safer way to consult with licensed doctors online. 

Martin Yu, Associate Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee is excited to partner with KonsultaMD to give Filipinos access to affordable healthcare consultations. We understand that some are still hesitant to visit a hospital because of the ongoing global pandemic. With this, Shopee will continue to collaborate with different organizations like KonsultaMD to provide reliable and quality healthcare products and services such as medical assessments, advice on basic healthcare, and proper medication, in a more convenient and timely manner.”

Dionela joins acclaimed hip-hop artists Flict-G and Dello on “Agaw” remix

Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Dionela teams up with rappers Flict-G and Dello on the remix of his smash hit, “Agaw.”

The original version, which has racked up more than a million streams on Spotify, recounts the soulful pop persona’s devastating experience of being left behind in a breakup. The song has built a reputation for its wounded sentimentality and heartfelt chorus, and easily stands out among the pack—thanks to  Dionela’s expressive R&B vocals. 

With Flic-G and Dello hopping on the remix, “Agaw” delivers the punch with a more in-your-face approach. Both hip-hop acts aid in dropping verses that swing between despair and helplessness, complementing the track’s skittering, atmospheric beats and cinematic production.

"Tom & Jerry" Big Screen Adventure Reveals Official Trailer

Tom and Jerry take their cat-and-mouse game to the big screen. Watch the trailer for Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Animation Group’s  new comedy adventure “Tom & Jerry” now – coming to Philippine cinemas 2021.

Facebook:  https://web.facebook.com/137782652917951/videos/456916345270610/ 

YouTube:  https://bit.ly/tomandjerrymaintrailer

One of the most beloved rivalries in history is reignited when Jerry moves into New York City’s finest hotel on the eve of “the wedding of the century,” forcing the event’s desperate planner to hire Tom to get rid of him, in director Tim Story’s “Tom & Jerry.”  The ensuing cat and mouse battle threatens to destroy her career, the wedding and possibly the hotel itself. But soon, an even bigger problem arises: a diabolically ambitious staffer conspiring against all three of them.

Here’s What To Get Your Gamer Friends For Christmas

Authentic gaming products on Shopee are on sale up to 66% off this November 16-22!

Got friends and loved ones who got into gaming during the pandemic? Allow them to enjoy their newfound hobby by getting them gaming products for Christmas!

But it’s tricky coming up with gifts for gaming enthusiasts if you understand nothing about the hobby yourself. Check out these gift ideas to make Christmas shopping for the gamer in your life a breeze. From November 16 to 22, Shopee is offering deals up to 66% off on authentic gaming products. 

Get Ready For Best Deals on Just Jewels Bright Beginnings Black Friday Grand Sale

November is the perfect month for spending and getting the best deals. After 11.11, people are now looking forward to Thanksgiving and Black Friday deals. Jewelry is actually one of the items that also does a huge sale during this period. As precious stones are indeed worth a lot and it can also vary in terms of type of gem, cut, or special design they are made into.

Precious stones, gemstones, and jewelry have always been connected to human culture since time immemorial. These beautiful adornments continue to hold real meaning and value. Throughout the course of history, jewelry has been offered as a trophy, an amulet, and sometimes, even art. It perfectly symbolizes love, a celebration of milestones, and of course, the ultimate representation of wealth.

GCash is top platform for subsidy distribution in QC Wage Relief Program for microenterprises

GCash, the undisputed leader and preferred mobile wallet in the Philippines, remains to be the digital transfer platform of choice for the majority of the beneficiaries of the Kalingang Quezon City Sa Negosyo program of the city’s local government.

From a total of 4,000 beneficiaries under the program, 80 percent or 3,200 micro and small business enterprises will receive their subsidy through GCash, saving them from the hassle of physically going to disbursement sites or banks and helping them avoid the risk of contracting COVID-19.

“Since the onset of the pandemic, GCash has actively partnered with local government units in distributing cash aid to their constituents. Months later, this method has proved to be the most effective way of implementing social welfare programs on the part of the public sector as mobility is still limited in most areas in the metro,” GCash President Martha Sazon said. 

Darren Espanto wants us to “Believe In Christmas”

The isolating nature of the pandemic has left us yearning for human connection, disrupting our daily lives on an unprecedented scale and forever changing the way we interact with one another. Its uncertainty has not only instilled fear and anxiety, but also forced us to participate in a game of risk roulette, where everyone tries to survive a global health crisis that knows no end or time, and outwit an invisible enemy through strategic measures that align with the new normal.

But Darren Espanto wants us to believe that love will always be our guiding light even in the most difficult of times. The accomplished recording star is optimistic about using his voice as a catalyst to spark hope and inspire others to make a positive difference—all in the spirit of Christmas. He wants to keep the Holiday tradition alive by spreading kindness and joy this festive season, but also wants to see it with a renewed perspective: that the cherished holiday traditions are more than just about sumptuous feasts. It’s also about a celebration of new beginnings and unwavering hope of much better days ahead, an opportunity to encourage everyone to be there for one another even when the going gets tough. 

People’s Champ Pacquiao donates Globe endorsement fee to Rolly and Ulysses victims

After scoring a brand endorsement agreement with Globe to be its newest brand ambassador, Senator and People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao announced that he is donating his fees to victims of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses. At the recently held contract signing at the Mireio, Raffles Hotel in Makati with Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu and Globe Chairman and Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Pacquiao offered to give his earnings to support relief efforts.

“I said yes to Globe because I believe in the company, and I use the company’s services. Not only that, I am given another God-given opportunity to be of help to our kababayans in any way I can. That is why my endorsement fee for this will go to relief efforts to help our kababayans who were affected by the devastation of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses.  Ibibigay natin sa mga taong ito ang ating income dito, ibabalik natin sa taumbayan para makatulong ng malaki sa ating mga kababayan na naghihirap at nagugutom ngayon at nawalan ng tahanan. Sama sama tayong babangon, that is my commitment,” said Pacquiao.

Boosting children’s health through immunization amid Covid-19 pandemic

Leslie is a mother of four children. Her youngest child caught measles and suffered severe coughing. He eventually passed away. If he was protected with vaccine, he would have celebrated his 2nd birthday this year.

The Philippines experienced a Measles outbreak from 2018 to 2019 where more than 70,000 cases and 841 deaths were recorded, mostly children. 

Medical experts say that complete immunization is the most effective way to keep people safe from Measles, and also from Rubella, commonly known as “tigdas hangin”, whose symptoms include fever, rashes, conjunctivitis, head, body and eye aches, chills and anorexia. 

Still, many of them, especially children, do not receive or have not completed immunization so diseases like this remain widespread in the country.

On September 2019, children were put at risk of lifelong paralysis due to the outbreak of Polio, where the virus enters the body through the mouth, by ingesting contaminated food and water. Most infections do not show symptoms, there is no medicine that could cure this and the only protection is through proper immunization.