Rag‘n’Bone Man to release 2nd studio album, ‘Life By Misadventure’ this April 2021

First single ‘All You Ever Wanted’ is out now on all streaming platforms worldwide via Columbia Records/Sony Music.

Good news to all Rag’n’Bone Man fans out there! The British singer-songwriter returns three years after his groundbreaking, award-winning debut, ‘Human’, with a renewed sense of purpose, on a sparkling new album, full of heart and soul. 

‘Life By Misadventure’ is an incredible collection of emotional songs to touch us when we need it most. 

First single ‘All You Ever Wanted’ is propelled by choppy rhythm guitars and a restlessness we’re all currently feeling – watch the video here. “I’d felt sad looking around Brighton and London where I grew up…remembering all those cool places that aren’t there anymore,” Rory Graham, aka Rag‘n’Bone Man, says. 

KCAT, Inc. Ramps Up Cybersecurity with Globe Business

As the economy proceeds to embrace the new normal, cybersecurity has become necessary in ensuring that all digital transformation initiatives happen without disruption.

To address the public’s growing need for secure connectivity services, Kabankalan Community Antenna Television, Inc. (KCAT) tapped Globe Business, the enterprise arm of Globe Telecom, for support in managing its cybersecurity defense.

“We aim to be the best Cable TV and Internet Service Provider in the Southern Area of Negros,” said Joel Dabao, President & CEO of KCAT. “Our vision requires us to be one step ahead of our customers’ needs. Seeing that demand for connectivity has steadily increased over the past months, we knew that we needed to upgrade our cybersecurity. However, doing so would mean investing in manpower, technology, and training. Thanks to Globe we were able to do just that—minus the time and effort of putting up a whole new cybersecurity department.”

UNIQLO To Open Its First Store In Butuan

Japanese global apparel retailer, UNIQLO, is set to open its first store in Butuan City on March 26, 2021. Situated at the ground floor of SM City Butuan, along JC Aquino Avenue, the opening of the store marks the brand’s commitment to provide affordable, stylish, and functional essentials to more locals in helping them with their everyday clothing lifestyle needs.

With 859 square meters shopping space, Butuanons can soon have access to the complete lineup of LifeWear clothing for women, men, kids, and babies, including UNIQLO shirts, pants, jeans, denims, dresses, the AIRism collection, and UV Protection pieces. On the opening week, customers can enjoy special offers on selected UNIQLO items perfect for the summer season.

Ortigas Art Festival Brings Excitement This 2021

Now more than ever, art and artist needs more appreciation and support during these trying times. And as we are slowly coming back to our normal lives, having art would also help us appreciate the beauty of the world outside our confined homes.

With museums and theaters still not open, the mall is what we go to for our supplies and temporary escape from our quarantine. But this is also a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the outside world through the best of film, painting, photography, sculpture, and so much more at the Ortigas Art Festival 2021.

Globe helps develop English language literacy among children

Globe is helping develop language literacy among children in view of the significant drop in the country’s global ranking in English proficiency.  This is also in support of the Department of Education (DepEd)'s efforts to address the growing threat posed on the public education system by the ongoing pandemic.

Under its Global Filipino Teachers (GFT) initiative, Globe, through a partnership with Teach for the Philippines (TFP), provides essential learning sessions that promote 21st century learning and maximize digital resources among public school teachers and learners amid the COVID-19 crisis.  TFP works to provide Filipino children with inclusive, relevant, and excellent education.

Ben&Ben to light up Manila skyline with first drone show

Ben&Ben are set to make the impossible possible by headlining The Inevitable Drone Show—the first of its kind to feature a music performance with drone lights show illuminating the Manila skyline in synchronized fashion.

Presented by SMART 5G, the eco-friendly and innovative show will surely grab headlines as Rizal Park and its nearby areas will get to experience the modern lights show LIVE on February 28 (Sunday) at exactly 7pm. It will also simultaneously air on Ben&Ben’s official Facebook page.

RichGo brings Nokia branded personal audio products to the Philippines.

Nokia brand licensee, RichGo Technology today announces it will be offering Nokia branded personal audio products in the Philippines. Nokia fans will now have access to quality, Nordic-inspired designs of True Wireless Stereo audio devices to suit the lifestyle and budget of Filipino consumers.

“We are excited to launch our Essential and Pro line of products in the Philippines as we’ve been receiving a lot of requests from Nokia fans to range our True Wireless audio products in the country.” shares RichGo COO, Mr. Casey Lim. “Our products will be available to consumers through our online stores, and partner retail shops with a 1-year warranty starting this quarter.”

Mi 11 arrives in Philippines with studio-grade camera features and pro performance

Available for pre-order in the Philippines starting March 5 for PHP 36,990  (8GB + 256GB) 

Xiaomi also announced two new ecosystem products – Mi Vacuum Cleaner G10 and Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team Edition

Global technology leader Xiaomi today announced the release of Mi 11 in the Philippines during a local online livestream earlier today. The latest flagship in its popular Mi smartphone lineup is truly a premium device, debuting with some groundbreaking improvements over its predecessor, including a Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 888 chipset, 108MP triple rear camera, cinematic audio, and 50W wireless charging. From March 13, Mi 11 will be available for purchase at an amazing price of PHP 36,990 for the 8GB + 256GB variant. At the same time, Xiaomi launched two new ecosystem products in the Philippines: Mi Vacuum Cleaner G10 and Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 Mercedes- AMG Petronas F1 Team Edition. 

Globe readies VoLTE service for postpaid customers in 1,538 towns and cities all over the country

Globe is all set to make its VoLTE service accessible to postpaid customers in more towns and municipalities in the country.  Its aggressive network expansion and modernization efforts have resulted in making Voice over LTE or VoLTE service available soon to postpaid customers in 1,538 towns and cities all over the country.

Moreover, the company says its VoLTE coverage is now activated and optimized in 575 towns and cities in at least 25 provinces in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Be the Next 3.3 Shopee Milyonaryo and Join Our First Lucky Jackpot Prize Winner from General Santos City

Jovie Garcia, a caregiver from General Santos, wins ₱1M on the first day of 3.3 Shopee Milyonaryo

Caregivers have been called the unsung heroes of the pandemic, and with good reason. Caregiving is one of the toughest jobs around, made even more difficult by the additional health risks COVID-19 poses. 

As a caregiver, her job is never easy, but Jovie Garcia from General Santos City remains grateful for being able to keep it. She is also thankful that her husband can continue working as a tricycle driver, so they can both support their 14-year-old daughter and her ailing mother-in-law. “Buti nga po may trabaho kami nitong pandemic. Hindi naman po nai-stop,” she said.

GInsure grows total insurance coverage to PHP 8.3 B as Filipinos protect themselves vs COVID

GCash, the undisputed leader and preferred mobile wallet in the Philippines, pursues its commitment to financial inclusion as it protects over 100,000 Filipinos against life and health-threatening conditions through GInsure. 

Introduced just last year, GInsure is an insurance marketplace service available in GCash that lets customers purchase preferred insurance products with very competitive offerings starting at PHP 39 a month, and can be accomplished within just a few minutes. GInsure currently features insurance products from globally-trusted insurance brands AXA (through MicroEnsure) and Singlife.

DOT, Intramuros tap PayMaya to enable safe re-opening of museums and sites through cashless payments

CASHLESS PAYMENTS FOR SAFE VISITS TO INTRAMUROS. Department of Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat (in photo) led the re-opening of select sites and museums in the walled city of Intramuros to the public as part of its efforts to re-ignite domestic tourism and boost the recovery of the local economy. In this photo, Sec. Puyat is scanning the PayMaya QR code displayed at ticketing booths using her phone to pay contactless for tickets and other admission costs as part of the minimum health standards being observed in Intramuros.

Visitors to the recently re-opened historic sites and museums in the walled city of Intramuros in Manila will be assured of a safer experience as digital financial services PayMaya offers cashless payment options for fees and tickets in the various tourist attractions in the area. 

The Department of Tourism and the Intramuros Administration have tapped PayMaya to provide cashless payment options via PayMaya QR as it re-opened select sites such as Fort Santiago, Casa Manila Museum, and Baluarte de Santiago on a limited-capacity basis to the public. 

When tourists and visitors go to these sites, they only have to scan the PayMaya QR displayed at the ticket booth using their PayMaya app to pay for the necessary fees and avoiding person-to-person contact with the site personnel. 

“PayMaya fully supports the DOT's efforts to bolster safety in the domestic tourism industry as we chart our path toward economic recovery. With the help of cashless payments powered by PayMaya, local tourists and visitors in Intramuros and other local destinations can be assured that it’s not just more fun but, more importantly, more convenient and safer to travel around the country at this time,” said Orlando B. Vea, Founder and CEO of PayMaya. 

The DOT has been promoting various local tourist destinations such as Boracay, Bohol, and Palawan for domestic travelers in order to re-ignite interest in local tourism sites and support the sector, which was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Linking the past to the future with cashless payments 

“We are glad to offer safe and convenient cashless payments to all of our tourists and visitors in Intramuros with the help of PayMaya. Today we start with select museums and sites but we are looking forward to equipping the other attractions and merchants around Intramuros with cashless payments, so that this historic walled city of the past can also be a progressive, cashless city of the future,” said Atty. Guiller Asido, Intramuros Administrator. 

Aside from empowering Intramuros with PayMaya QR for ticket sales in sites and museums, the Intramuros Administration is also utilizing PayMaya's digital invoicing solution, allowing them to accept card (Visa, Mastercard, and JCB) and PayMaya for online payments meant for rental payments of merchants, permits, and other similar transactions.

Other than cashless payments, the Intramuros Administration has also collaborated with PLDT wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, in rolling out free Wi-Fi access around various sites and public areas of Intramuros, as well as interactive tourism markers powered by QR codes and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology as part of its nationwide Digital Tourism Program and #TravelSmart campaign.

To support the government in this endeavor, PayMaya has also enabled government agencies such as the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), as well local tour operators and travel agencies, to accept cashless payments from local tourists and visitors. 

At the same time, PayMaya is the only financial technology company in the Philippines capable of enabling the entire transportation chain across the entire country with the widest range of solutions – a vital component in the revival of the local tourism industry. 

Getting your own PayMaya account and enjoying the convenience of traveling safe and paying cashless is very easy. Just download the PayMaya app at https://official.paymaya.com/CAK1/425eb133 and register an account to find out what it’s like to go cashless with the fastest, safest, and most rewarding way to pay for anything online and in stores! Remember, for your safe travel needs, don’t pay cash. PayMaya! 

PayMaya is the only end-to-end digital payments ecosystem enabler in the Philippines with platforms and services that cut across consumers, merchants, communities, and government. Through its enterprise business, it is the largest digital payments processor for key industries in the country including "everyday" merchants such as the largest retail, food, gas, and eCommerce merchants as well as government agencies and units.    

Through its app and wallet, PayMaya provides over 28 million Filipinos with access to financial services. Customers can conveniently pay, add money, cash out or remit through its over 200,000 digital touchpoints nationwide.  

Its Smart Padala by PayMaya network of over 37,000 partner agent touchpoints nationwide serves as last-mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing the unbanked and underserved with access to digital services. To know more about PayMaya's products and services, visit www.PayMaya.com or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 





The New Spider-Man Movie Has an Official Title

Columbia Pictures has just revealed the official title of the newest Spider-Man live-action film: Spider-Man: No Way Home, coming to Philippine cinemas soon.

Watch the announcement trailer below:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/iqyPvdsOWKk 

Spider-Man: No Way Home will be distributed in the Philippines by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.  Connect with #SpiderManNoWayHome and tag columbiapicph

Cebuana Lhuillier's services can now be done from home

In the past year, we’ve seen how businesses have switched to digital platforms due to the community quarantine. Many have come up with innovative ways to ensure that they are able to provide their basic services to people at home. One of them is Cebuana Lhuillier, which is one of the most accessible pawnshops in the country with 2,500 branches nationwide.

To further make themselves more accessible, they launched Cebuana From Home (CFH), a platform that gives clients 360-degree access to Cebuana Lhuillier’s services—from cash remittance to pawning.

Here’s a quick rundown of CFH and how the platform can help the general public.

Electronic producer CHROMANCE teams up with K-Pop group MOMOLAND for the new version of “Wrap Me In Plastic”

Hit producer CHROMANCE and sensational K-Pop girl group MOMOLAND have recently teamed up for the reimagining of the former’s worldwide smash “Wrap Me In Plastic.” Listen here, watch the video here.

Just when we thought things couldn't possibly get any better for CHROMANCE's successful single 'Wrap Me In Plastic' (50+ Million Spotify streams, 60 Million YouTube views, 650+ million streams in mainland China), a new exciting collaboration comes along to spice things up. MOMOLAND (568+ million YouTube views, 133+ million Spotify Streams and 12 million likes on TikTok) joins the mysterious hit producer to bring a new captivating version of the record.

The collaboration came about as CHROMANCE wanted to build on to the global success of WMIP to South Korea, started to dig into the world of K-Pop, and immediately took interest in MOMOLAND’s musical and visual style. Simultaneously, MOMOLAND had noticed the major success of WIMP in Asia and found the single to be such a perfect match for them, that they reached out to CHROMANCE who was instantly into the idea of collaborating.

The Battle for the Shield Forges on: Asia Pacific Predator League 2020/21 Set for This April

The Asia Pacific (APAC) Predator League 2020/21 Grand Finals will be pushing through as an online-only tournament from April 6-11, 2021.

Qualified teams from the APAC Predator League 2020 Grand Finals have received direct invites for this tournament, with the rest of the teams revealed over the next few weeks.

The tournament is now divided into four sub-tournaments, two for PUBG and two for Dota 2. All matches of the four sub-tournaments will be held from April 6-11.

Acer announced the Asia Pacific (APAC) Predator League 2020/21 will be held from April 6-11, 2021. Fans who were left on the edge due to the 2020 league’s postponement have something to look forward to as teams across the Asia Pacific will finally battle it out in an online-only tournament.

“The decision to host the Asia Pacific Predator League fully online, instead of a cancellation, demonstrates Acer’s commitment to the gaming community,” said Andrew Hou, President of Acer Pan Asia Pacific Regional Operations. “With the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we made the decision to move the competition to Spring 2021 for the safety and best interests of the tournament’s competitors, fans, spectators and staff.”

PayMaya’s workplace programs cited by LinkedIn and Anvil Awards

Digital financial services leader PayMaya has been cited by global technology firm LinkedIn and the local Anvil Awards for its trailblazing efforts in creating the workplace of the future today amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

PayMaya effectively utilized a variety of digital tools and programs that allowed for higher employee engagement, accelerated business growth, continuous learning initiatives, and recruitment of top talent.

“Behind all our groundbreaking achievements at PayMaya are our employees. The collective purpose, passion, and expertise propels our unique end-to-end digital payments ecosystem providing crucial services to more than 28 million registered users and over 116,000 merchant partners and their customers across the country,” said Charee Lanza, Chief People Officer of PayMaya. 

“Creating the workplace of the future today is key to the fintech industry, especially as we support the recovery and growth of the Philippine economy through digital and cashless technologies,” she added. 

Government and private sector join forces to launch national anti-hunger initiative Pilipinas Kontra Gutom

“Lahat kasali, lahat kasalo”. On February 22, the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom movement shared plans on how the different members of the private sector and the government intend to collaborate to uplift 1 Million Filipinos from hunger by 2022, and eventually, to reach zero hunger in the country. Seen in the photo are the different leads from around 70 organizations, companies, and groups that have come together to beat hunger.

“Lahat kasali, lahat kasalo”. This is the rallying call of Pilipinas Kontra Gutom (PKG), a national, multi-sectoral anti-hunger movement that was formally launched on Monday by government and private sector partners that will work together on various programs with a common goal: one million fewer hungry Filipinos by 2022.

‘Napakalaking tulong’: Zambales official credits Globe for town’s improved economic standing

A local official in Sta. Cruz, Zambales says fast, reliable and steady access to the internet has made it possible for his constituents to cope with the economic and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vice Mayor Kristan Rommel Misola says the presence of new Globe cell sites proved to be the push and support they needed to deal with the challenges of the new normal and for their municipality to remain relevant and competitive.    

“Sa pagdami kasi ng mga cell site nagkaroon ng mas magandang opportunity ang mga tao lalo na sa business. Yung social media, yun online selling at yung communication ng mga information sa update sa pandemya at kung ano ang nangyayari sa ating bayan at bansa ay nakatulong ng malaki, (Additional cell sites give good opportunity to the people especially those who have business. Social media, online selling and communication of updates on the pandemic and what’s happening in our country help us a lot)” Misola explains.

Enjoy Free Shipping, Cashback, and More at the 3.3 ShopeePay Cashless Festival

Shop, buy load, and pay bills with ShopeePay to grab exclusive deals and rewards this February 22-25, 2021

ShopeePay, an integrated mobile wallet that offers users easy access to digital payment services, launches the 3.3 ShopeePay Cashless Festival this February 22-25. Users who shop, buy load, and pay bills with ShopeePay can enjoy exclusive perks and rewards such as free shipping, ₱1 deals, load discounts, cashback, and more.

An ‘Inevitable’ Pairing: How Ben&Ben’s music made it to Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin’s TVC for Smart

While it was important for Smart to grant wishes of its subscribers when it comes to bringing consumers closer to their foreign idols, the latest Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin TVC presented an opportunity to put a Filipino band behind the soundtrack and musical scoring.  

Here’s where Ben&Ben comes in, providing “Inevitable,” the song that is heard in the background while Hyun Bin and Son Ye Jin pursue each other in this romantic-sci-fi TVC.  

With lyrics inspired by real-life events, Ben&Ben members simply happen to be CLOY fans as well. In a collaboration set to motion by the band, Smart, and Sony Music, things started falling into place when it came to lending soundtrack and musical score for this collaborative campaign.

Ohmyhome: Why invest in real estate in 2021

Filipinos seeking stable and safe investments might want to
venture into property this year, as data from real estate analysts
 show a positive outlook for Philippine real estate in 2021. 
Forecasts for the real estate industry in 2021 show that property as an investment remains a stable and safe option, with upcoming developments in the country’s business environment and national infrastructure projects set for completion.

Industry experts assert that the property sector has “continuously displayed resilience over the last decade, posting record high-levels in take-up, supply, prices, and land values.” 

Likewise, data from research show that despite the pandemic, property investments yield steady and lucrative returns, preserve wealth, and generate capital appreciation, showing how real estate is one of the best long-term investments for individuals and families.

All these points out the fact that the real estate industry remains one of the safest spheres for investors who seek passive income.

Sam Fischer and Demi Lovato turn emotional on “What Other People Say” music video

Following the release of their new single “What Other People Say” through RCA Records, Sam Fischer and Demi Lovato have shared the emotive and compelling official video, which is available to watch now.

Directed by Dano Cerny, the video features both Sam and Demi set within a train carriage, showcasing them going about their own lives, but with a unity of emotion that highlights the song’s message of being alone together. Written by Sam before his single “This City” became a global hit, it was a song he always knew would be a duet and was blown away when Demi Lovato became the perfect person to accompany him on vocals. 

Penned about a feeling of being alone and not wanting to let people down, the pairing takes two different lives and perspectives and unites them in one message of human experience, emotion and togetherness. With other 5 million worldwide streams since its release last week, is a truly special track with a powerful, moving and relatable chorus and is Sam’s first official single releases since “This City.”

Shopee Kicks Off 3.3 - 4.4 Mega Shopping Sale with its Newest Brand Ambassador, Willie Revillame

Catch Willie Revillame on Shopee's TV specials and enjoy free shipping, 20% cashback, and ShopeePay ₱1 deals at Shopee Philippines’ first mega sale of the year

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, proudly introduces Willie Revillame as its newest brand ambassador for the 3.3 - 4.4 Mega Shopping Sale, its first mega sale of the year. The partnership comes after several successful runs of Shopee TV specials hosted by the massively popular TV personality on GMA 7’s Wowowin: Tutok to Win. Together with Willie Revillame, Shopee invites Filipinos to enjoy weeks of promotions and prizes at the 3.3 - 4.4 Mega Shopping Sale. 

Asia Leaders Award 2020 Young CEO of the year goes to Arch. Kaydee Velasco

The biggest and most talk of the town recognition event from the previous year even during pandemic is Asia Leaders Awards that was held at Inagiku, Makati Shangrila Hotel and attended by leaders who are making a difference even in this crisis we all are experiencing with an objective to acknowledge these leaders and to be emulated that in spite of this Pandemic are still and able to reach out those in need even outside their community. 

The young CEO of KMV Asia Development Corporation, Arch. Kaydee Marie Velasco is the recipient of “Young CEO of the Year: Real Estate” for her success in developing multiple real estate properties and by reaching out to the Frontliners and indigents. 

The winner of this award proves that being young is not a limitation to succeed in the field of business. This award recognizes those 40s and under who play an important role in developing and improving their community, business industry and professional arenas.

MDS Call Solutions Inc. Partners with Globe Business for Integrated Cloud Customer Service

Business process outsourcing company, MDS Call Solutions, Inc. (MDSCSI) takes its voice and digital services up a notch with Globe. MDSCSI collaborated with Globe’s enterprise arm, Globe Business, to support its Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud migration and SMS Application Programming Interface (API) integration.

“This year of recovery involves technologies that propel our success further. With the help of Globe Business, we’re able to take back the opportunities the pandemic took,” shared Patricia Calope, MDSCSI Managing Director. “Multiple lockdowns made it difficult to manage our on-premise servers. Our infrastructure needed to be replaced, with our equipment requiring round-the-clock upkeep and maintenance—amid IT teams operating at full capacity. If it weren’t for Globe’s assistance, we would’ve had many lost business opportunities, as it was becoming clear that our existing servers were not enough to help our company scale with the demand.”

Raven turns romantic confession into pop-rap hybrid on “Paraluman”

Inspired by his observations on life and its parallel sources from film, art, literature, and pop culture, Raven makes genre-bending jams that resonate on a universal level. Aside from writing and performing his own songs, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter also dabbles into the production side of music-making, often blurring the lines of bedroom pop, lo-fi rap, indie folk, and chill music to create boundless singularity that appeals to a young generation of listeners. 

Giveon tops streaming charts in the Philippines with “Heartbreak Anniversary”

Buoyed by its popularity on TikTok and other video-sharing platforms, Giveon’s “Heartbreak Anniversary” currently ranks as the most streamed song in the Philippines this week. The R&B ballad shoots straight to No. 1 on both Spotify Philippines Top 50 and Viral 50 charts, respectively.

With celebrities and online influencers hopping on the viral challenge, “Heartbreak Anniversary” receives a significant boost on digital streaming and sales, as it showcases wide-ranging appeal that resonates with the Filipino audience.

Tallying close to 50 million streams on Spotify worldwide, the song has also gained traction from international music critics and publications, with Cool Hunting praising the track for “fusing modern R&B with the baritone deliveries of legendary artists like Frank Sinatra and Bobby Caldwell” and for its “simple instrumentals that radiate while Giveon’s vocals dive deeper.”

Globe Stores reopen, ready to meet needs of customers

Globe announced 99% of its Stores nationwide have reopened. All Globe Stores nationwide are now operational with the exception of one store located at the TGT headquarters in BGC. A total of 196 stores across the country are ready to serve customers and handle concerns that need personal or face-to-face interaction.

Globe Stores were closed in March last year following the lockdowns as a way to slow the spread of COVID-19.

As government relaxed restrictions, Globe began opening select Stores with skeletal workforces in May 2020. This was part of Globe’s commitment to serve the mobile and internet needs of its customers when digital connectivity was of utmost importance.

NBA and Smart Launch NBA's Official Destination In The Philippines

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and digital services provider Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) today announced the relaunch of NBA.com/Philippines, the league’s official digital destination in the country.  Today’s announcement builds on the NBA and Smart’s existing partnership to provide Smart subscribers with access to NBA League Pass, the league’s premium live game subscription service, and NBA.Smart, Smart’s over-the-top service that livestreams NBA TV Philippines, a localized version of the NBA’s dedicated 24/7 channel.

The online NBA destination will offer Filipino fans access to game highlights, stats, standings, scores, schedules and more.  In addition, NBA.com/Philippines will offer localized content, including recaps and analysis from its roster of sports reporters and basketball personalities, as well as a weekly podcast titled “NBA Hype Squad,” which will feature discussions hosted by local influencers about the latest league news.  As part of Smart’s promotions, the network will provide its prepaid and postpaid subscribers access to editorial content on NBA.com/Philippines without incurring data charges.

Three Months On: World Vision assisted 64,000 people affected by typhoons Rolly and Ulysses

Three months since typhoons Rolly (international name Goni) and Ulysses (international name Vamco) ravaged Luzon, World Vision in the Philippines continues its emergency response in partnership with the local government and like-minded agencies to help families bounce back from the succeeding calamities. To date, World Vision has reached over 64,000 people, including 23,000 children.

“Our timely intervention in the Bicol Region, Metro Manila, Isabela and Cagayan provinces has helped children, who are at the heart of what we do, to cope from the impact of typhoons Rolly and Ulysses,” shared Rommel V. Fuerte, World Vision national director who recently visited and witnessed the situation of affected families in Albay.

Grab launches second cloud kitchen in Sampaloc, Manila

GrabKitchen offers wider food variety from eight partnering merchants to Manila foodies
Through GrabKitchen, customers can order from different restaurants and pay one delivery fee
With its cloud kitchen set-up, GrabKitchen provides merchant-partners a cost efficient opportunity to expand their business

A year after the launch of its maiden GrabKitchen branch in the Philippines, Grab today announced the launch of its second cloud kitchen. 

Located in Sampaloc, Manila, GrabKitchen brings together eight brands to provide more food choices to consumers It also aims to provide food entrepreneurs the opportunity to launch their brands in new locations with a lower set up1 cost and to reach a wider base of customers through GrabFood.

“GrabKitchen is a reflection of our desire to delight consumers and to support food and beverage entrepreneurs to grow their business in the digital economy. Our first GrabKitchen has enabled merchants to establish their brands in Makati, where they didn’t used to have a physical store, with minimal upfront investments.. At the same time, it has also provided food lovers the option to enjoy different cuisines they love in a single order, and pay one delivery fee. We hope to bring the same benefits to consumers and businesses through the opening of our Sampaloc branch, “ said Grab Philippines Head of Deliveries EJ Dela Vega.

Top supermarkets offer big rewards when you pay with PayMaya QR

Grocery shopping this February is more rewarding when you go cashless as PayMaya teams up with the biggest supermarkets in the country to give you a safer and more convenient experience when purchasing your daily essentials with PayMaya QR. 

Until February 28, 2021, you can get up to P250 in cashback when you #ScanToPay via PayMaya QR at your go-to supermarkets including Mercury Drug, Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Super8, Waltermart, AllDay, and South Emerald, among so many others. To know the full list of participating supermarkets, visit http://pymy.co/FebGroceryQRCashback.

All you have to do is #ScanToPay at least P1,000 for your everyday purchases to get a P50 cashback. You can enjoy this reward up to five times for the entire promo period – giving you a total of P250 in savings, at your favorite grocery stores all over the country.

PH's First Ever Foaming Body Wash is Finally Here

Have you ever felt like showering has reached its point that it now feels like a chore? The past year has taken a toll on daily activities, more so on hygiene habits. Having to shower more than what you’re used to now makes the once-celebrated me-time a laborious chore.  Although showering is now an essential step in protecting yourself from germs, it doesn’t have to be boring and tedious — especially as Safeguard introduces a new way to amp the fun in being clean.

Foaming body washes are the newest forms of body wash. You’ve seen them for your hands, but now, for the first time in the Philippines, Safeguard introduces foaming body wash to make showers more indulgent and fun, with the same germ protection you have always known. First Ever Foaming Body Wash in the Philippines.

Filipinos now have more reasons to hop in the shower with the NEW Safeguard Detox Foaming Body Wash that comes in three different variants namely, Pomegranate, Bamboo Charcoal, and the classic Pure White.

Jean Tan Releases Music Video Of 'Oak Cherry Wine' Remix Featuring Korean Artiste 양중은Yang Jung Eun

Singapore-based singer-songwriter Jean Tan has officially released an accompanying music video of ‘Oak Cherry Wine’ remix, featuring Korean YouTube artiste 양중은 Yang Jung Eun.

Now available on her YouTube channel, the video for the newly remixed version was directed by Stockholm-based Singaporean film director, Mandy Tay. The visual narrative features a pair of lovers dancing through the quotidian scenes of Stockholm city: traditional meets contemporary, and ballet meets street dance, the couple whirl around each other in a dream state, swirling like a glass of (oak cherry) wine. 

As a follow up to her recently-released 5-track EP, ‘Blooms’, the remix to the spellbinding single, ‘Oak Cherry Wine’ is produced by Singaporean music producer, Feng Lee, and was made available on digital music platforms worldwide last 29 January 2021.

GCash launches QR on Demand, the newest way to transfer money

GCash, the undisputed leader and preferred mobile wallet in the Philippines, launches QR on Demand, a new money transfer feature that allows for more security and convenience for its users, letting them send and receive money using their own personal QR.

QR on Demand’s Send via QR lets its users scan or upload another customer’s QR code, so users are assured that they’re sending money to the correct person. This also eliminates the process of having to enter a mobile number manually, making the process of sending money faster, and avoids money incorrectly sent to wrong numbers.

Grab, Sarah Geronimo team up to provide everyday value to more Filipinos

Celebrate Her Reveal with Grab’s Kilo-Kilometrong Pa-Promo!

Grab, the Philippines’ leading super app  is excited to announce that it will be working with one of the Philippines’ most popular and influential celebrities, Sarah Geronimo - as its  brand ambassador. Known for her strong sense of practicality, Sarah and Grab Philippines will work on a series of campaigns and initiatives to delight and bring everyday value to Filipinos nationwide. 

“As someone who came from a humble background, alam ko kung gaano kahalaga to make the most out of every peso. Mas lalo pa ngayon na I started my journey into married life. Kaya I am very much excited to be working with Grab! May mga campaigns and initiatives kaming inihanda para sa lahat, and I am sure that kung sino ka man, ano man ang iyong budget - may mga makikita kang sulit na deals and exciting promos sa Grab na para sayo,” says Sarah Geronimo.

Zack Tabudlo maps his music journey with dual releases “Iyong-Iyo” and “Elizabeth”

The beginning of Zack Tabudlo’s Island Records journey saw the young singer-songwriter going full speed ahead. His song ‘Sigurado’ hit the Top Viral PH charts and stayed there for four weeks, following its feature in the online series Your Home. There’s also ‘Cruel,’ whose music video was released earlier this year and sports over 20,000 views on YouTube. Zack’s most recent single, the first one under Island Records Philippines, is the sultry ‘Nangangamba,' whose play count on Spotify clocks in at over a million listens.

Fet Boys introduces the First Ruby Chocolate Cookies

Chef Kirk Ngo of Fet Boys is indeed a trailblazer. After making the first ever Coffee Butterscotch Cookie, he is now launching his newest creation, the Prettier than Pink Cookies. 

Derived from Ruby Chocolate, the Prettier than Pink cookie is the first of its kind. Ruby Chocolate is the 4th type of Chocolate that is accepted as "real chocolate." This is derived from Ruby Cacao beans which gives it its natural pink color. 

What makes Ruby Chocolate unique is its taste characterized by fruity notes and a pink color which is all-natural. After Dark, Milk, and White chocolate, Ruby is the newest chocolate in the market and it is about to become the next big thing.

KMVAsia Announces More than 80% Occupancy for VIVE Montojo

Environmentally-friendly residence to be completed by March 2021

VIVE Montejo, the residence of choice for start-up families, is almost completely occupied, announced its developer, KMV Asia Development, Inc. The property officially broke ground only in the middle of 2019, but has already exceeded expectations with around 35 units of its 40-unit capacity being sold to interested unit owners. Architect Kaydee Marie O. Velasco (KMV), founder and chief executive officer of KMV Asia, says that this signifies a shift in what families want for their homes.

They announced that the property is now at 80% occupancy as units are selling fast. VIVE Montejo is built in accordance with IATF guidelines which ensures quality and safety of construction up to the last detail.

Why should you consider buying a house?

A house is one of the most important basic necessities in our life. We need a house for protection against the ever-changing weather conditions, natural disaster, and threats from human and animals. Once this house becomes a home, it provides belonging, control, identity, privacy and security. Above all, a home is a place that provides centering - a peaceful place from which we leave each morning and to which we return at night.

These are some of the reasons why most people want to buy a house. But the big question when it comes to making their first home purchase is – when is the right time? How can you tell it is the right time to buy one? When does homebuying become happiness or stress?

“Bagong Hamon, Bagong Tapang” Ginebra San Miguel’s latest campaign

zWhile the coming new year brings us a fresh start, it also pushes us to face a new reality, a new normal. In this new normal, life is not the way it used to be. 

With the new normal comes a new start, a new hope, and a new future that is in our hands to shape. The pandemic may have exposed our weaknesses, but it has also built new courage and strength. It is a courage that says, “I will start again even if it means beginning at a lower state”. It is a courage that operates on humility and certainty to fight despite external factors. Indeed, to succeed in this battle we have to overcome uncertainty with a different kind of strength and resilience, and a new kind of courage.

Globe at Home tops Netflix’s internet speed index in the Philippines

Globe at Home, Globe’s broadband business topped the latest Netflix ISP Speed Index. Globe at Home scored 3.2 Mbps in the January 2021 Netflix ISP index.

In its recent disclosure, Globe said that 2020 was a banner year for its Home Broadband business, posting revenues of P26.8 billion, a 23% hike year-on-year from P21.7 billion in 2019. Total home broadband subscriber base now stands at 3.8 million, an 88% increase from 2019.

Globe said that it intends to rollout an additional 1 million fiber lines in 2021.  Globe earmarked an unprecedented Php 70 billion in CAPEX this year, 80% of which will be spent on data network builds.

Rakuten Viber, Globe myBusiness, and GCash partner to empower MSMEs and customers

The new partnership makes FoodPH transactions convenient and safer for merchants and customers

Rakuten Viber, one of the leading messaging apps in the world, has partnered with Globe myBusiness and GCash in providing micro, small, medium enterprises (MSMEs) and their customers with a safe and efficient way to complete transactions through QR codes.

These QR codes have been first made available for merchants on FoodPH, Viber’s very own food directory. Through this partnership, FoodPH merchants can make online food orders more convenient for their buyers. To receive payments, they can simply send their GCash QR code to their customers, who can easily scan the code using the GCash app to pay for their orders. New FoodPH merchants can get their own GCash QR code upon signing up, while existing ones can do the same via a link that’s provided to them via the bot.

Autosweep & EasyTrip RFID loading quicker with GCash

GCash, the leading mobile wallet in the Philippines, now offers customers a more convenient way of loading their Autosweep & EasyTrip RFID accounts via the GCash app.

For a minimum amount of PHP 200, customers with GCash accounts can just go to the Pay Bills portion of the app, select Transportation, and choose either Autosweep or EasyTrip, and enter their account number and the amount they want to load. Topping up load using GCash eliminates the hassle of going to physical locations just to do the same, is evidently faster, and is contactless, keeping customers safe against the pandemic. 

Ben&Ben surprise listeners with Valentine’s-themed track “Inevitable”

Filipino folk-pop outfit Ben&Ben have officially dropped a soaring new single called “Inevitable” this Valentine’s Day via Sony Music.

Inspired by recent events surrounding the band’s lives, their latest song encourages listeners and music fans to live in the moment freely and truthfully without the need to succumb to expectations. 

Ushering into a reinvigorating sense of calm, the empowering track ascends to a place where love can be inevitably beautiful even in its simple, unassuming terms. It was written by Paolo Benjamin (lead vocals and acoustic guitars) during a random afternoon run by the beach near the place where Ben&Ben live—coming into fruition after a solitary moment spent with nature and the spiritual force above him. Paolo reflects, “Inevitable is a song that tries to describe the nature of fate, and how all our actions somehow lead us to some better place that is destined for us. It’s also a song about being real with someone, and that no matter how scary that may seem at times, there is freedom in bearing your truest nature with someone dear to you, even if that someone is yourself.” 

Your Business Made Better: Globe myBusiness Provides Digital Solutions to Empower Businesses in the Next Normal

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, businesses have suffered great losses and struggled to stay afloat. Traditionally run businesses without a digital presence were doubly challenged to remain present in a market overrun by competitors with an already established audience. Given these challenges, Globe myBusiness is helping businesses power through this next normal. Globe offers tried-and-tested digital solutions, an impressive, reliable network, and empowering learning events—all of which are aimed at helping build stronger and better businesses this 2021.

Digital solutions offered by Globe include a range of broadband and mobile plans. Businesses heavily relying on broadband internet can avail of Globe’s Unli Internet Plan priced at only Php 1899. Get unlimited data of up to 30Mbps, a free Konsulta MD license for 12 months, and a freebie choice of either a Microsoft 365 license or a Google Workspace license for one year. The installation fee for this plan is also waived.

Business owners with heavy data and call usage can also avail of Globe’s mobile plan Php 1499. This plan includes unlimited calls and SMS to all networks, up to 32Gb of mobile data, and a free Konsulta MD license for 12 months. Globe is also handing out a BPLO special offer where business owners can simply present their 2021 Business Permit up until February 28 to get up to Php 1000 Gcash Credit. 

Zack Tabudlo maps his music journey with new single “Iyong-Iyo”

The beginning of Zack Tabudlo’s Island Records journey saw the young singer-songwriter going full speed ahead. His song ‘Sigurado’ hit the Top Viral PH charts and stayed there for four weeks, following its feature in the online series Your Home. There’s also ‘Cruel,’ whose music video was released a few months ago and has racked up more than 70,000 views on YouTube and more than 240,000 streams on Spotify. 

Zack’s biggest single to date, the first one under Island Records Philippines, is the sultry ‘Nangangamba,' whose play count on Spotify clocks in at over a million streams.

Iyong-Iyo: a tender ballad about love and yearning

And Zack shows no signs of slowing down, as evidenced by his latest single ‘Iyong Iyo.’ Written by Tiny Corpuz and performed by Zack Tabudlo, ‘Iyong Iyo’ sees Zack putting it all on the line and giving everything—literal possession. “Kahit pa ba sa kabilang buhay, ‘di maglalaho,” he croons in the glimmering chorus, showcasing his lyrical penchant for themes like romance and longing. Gentle harmonies and mellow instrumentation make you feel like you’re floating, and allow Zack to flex the upper register of his vocal range, his high notes triumphant and sincere.

HBO'S Mare of Easttown Debuts April 19

Limited Series Stars Academy Award®, Emmy® and Golden Globe®-winner Kate Winslet

Starring Academy Award®, Emmy® and Golden Globe®-winner Kate Winslet (HBO’s “Mildred Pierce”), from creator and writer Brad Ingelsby (“The Way Back”), with all episodes directed by Craig Zobel (HBO’s “The Leftovers”), the seven-part limited series Mare Of Easttown debuts same time as the U.S. on Monday, 19 April at 10am exclusively on HBO GO and HBO, with a same day encore at 11pm on HBO. This limited series stars Winslet as Mare Sheehan, a small-town Pennsylvania detective who investigates a local murder as life crumbles around her. Mare Of Easttown is an exploration into the dark side of a close community and an authentic examination of how family and past tragedies can define our present.

ICYMI: Parokya Ni Edgar performed at the HONOR X9b 5G Bagsakan Concert!

HONOR Philippines just threw the very first HONOR X9b 5G Bagsakan and it was a success!  Parokya Ni Edgar performed at the HONOR X9b 5G Bags...