6 Reasons to Go on a Shopping Spree at Shopee’s 6.6 - 7.7 Mid-Year Sale

Until July 7, enjoy exclusive promos, get the chance to win prizes, and more! 

If you love online shopping, we’ve got great news for you: at Shopee’s 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale, you can grab plenty of exciting deals!

From May 25 until July 7, you can enjoy your dose of retail therapy while saving money on all your purchases, thanks to all the promos and discounts Shopee offers. For instance, you can claim free shipping vouchers, redeem coins cashback, and even win ShopeePay credits.

Here are a few reasons to check out Shopee’s 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale

Show your style and get that summer glow with these fresh deals from Xiaomi and blk cosmetics

Feel fresh and look hot with these fantastic summer deals from Xiaomi Philippines and blk in Lazada! 

Purchase a Mi 11 Lite, Redmi 9A or Redmi 9C for the chance to win a blk fridge set and also get a P100 blk cosmetics voucher for a minimum spend of P999 for Xiaomi phone purchasers. A Mi 11 Lite smartphone is also up for grabs for those who buy a blk: Fresh Sunkissed Set, along with a P200 Lazada voucher for a min. spend of P4,999. Promo period runs from May 29 – June 3, 2021.

You also get the chance to win one Redmi 9A or one Redmi 9C with the Xiaomi x blk social media contest. All you have to do is follow Xiaomi and blk cosmetics’ Official Lazada Stores; take mirror selfie using your Xiaomi phone and your blk makeup and post on your IG & FB Feed; add your caption your preferred prize and why you deserve to win it; tag @blkcosmeticsph & @mi_philippines on your post and use hashtag #xiaomixblk, then share your contest post on your IG Stories. Two winners will be chosen at random to take home one Redmi 9A or one Redmi 9C. The contest will run from May 29- June 6, 2021 and the winner announcement will be on June 8, 2021.

6 Binge-Worthy Shows and Movies to Watch

Looking forward to a lazy, relaxing weekend? Snuggle up in bed, light some scented candles, grab your favorite snacks, and pick out a show or movie! 

This weekend, find comfort in rewatching your old faves or joy in discovering new ones. Whether you’re into comedy, action, sci-fi, or fantasy, you’ll definitely find a show that suits your taste on streaming service HBO GO. 

We understand decision paralysis, so we’ve narrowed it down for you. Below, we’ve got six of the best shows and movies to stream this weekend: 

Cybersecurity tips you should follow at home

Cyberthreats are undeniably on the rise as we navigate the new normal mainly through the Internet. With individuals opting for cashless transactions, staying home to work, or attending classes online, being on guard is key to maintaining our digital security. 

Eastern Communications, one of the premier telecommunications companies in the country, recognizes this challenge as people are online more than ever. Its trusted partner, Trend Micro showed in its 2020 Annual Cybersecurity Report that a total of 16 million COVID-19 related cyberthreats occurred in the past year, ranging from basic to the most sophisticated attacks. 

“Work from home employees are no longer protected by their office network and children who do online learning and games are more exposed to predators. Digital transformation is a double-edged sword and people need to learn how to keep themselves cyber-safe to fully harness its benefits. One way to achieve this is to start at home,” shared Edsel Paglinawan, Eastern Communications Product and Innovation Head. 

To make sure your Internet security is impenetrable, Eastern Communications shares four ways to keep your family safe online.

An al fresco European flea market experience at The Palacio

Culture and art lovers can once again bask in art, antiques, and home décor at the second “Flea Market at Palacio De Memoria” on June 5-6, 2021, 10 am to 5 pm.

Inspired by European flea markets, like the El Rastro in Madrid and the Parisian Clignancourt in Paris, the two-day affair promises to be a fun, vibrant, and safe festivity that aims to help visitors have a quick respite from the stresses of the current pandemic. Open to everyone, most especially art collectors and enthusiasts, the flea market will be set al fresco to ensure everyone’s safety. 

“Those who missed the first flea market need not worry because we will be making this a regular event. This time, art collectors or those who are looking for beautiful pieces to add to their homes while under lockdown or affordable and one-of-a-kind gift options may find these and more at the second Flea Market at Palacio de Memoria,” said Camille Lhuillier-Albani, Palacio de Memoria general manager. 

Muntinlupa government opens vaccination center with Filinvest

 

In an effort to help boost the vaccination drive against COVID-19, Muntinlupa City local government unit (LGU) in partnership with Filinvest Corporate City Foundation Inc. (FCCFI), has established a vaccination center to provide the city’s residents with a new accessible location where they can receive their immunity shots against the dreaded disease.

The vaccination center, located inside the steel parking area at Festival Mall near Crimson Hotel in Filinvest City, Alabang, can accommodate 500 people per day and will run for three to six months.

For this effort, FCCFI provides the venue for the vaccination and will shoulder the cost of power, water, WiFi connection, utility manpower and whole-day meals for the staff conducting the vaccination. The Muntinlupa City LGU, on the other hand, will provide the medical and non-medical personnel who will manage and operate the vaccination sessions. 

GrabAcademy opens new upskilling paths for driver- and delivery-partners in the Philippines

GrabAcademy is now fully online - providing driver- and delivery-partners access to new learning and development opportunities to enhance their skills and become competitive in the digital-first economy.

● Through the GrabAcademy program and its partnership with Microsoft, Grab Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to leveraging technology to accelerate digital literacy and digital inclusion.

● Grab driver- and delivery-partners can benefit from six (6) training and development programs co-developed by Grab Philippines and Microsoft

Grab Philippines announced the launch of the GrabAcademy online platform to provide driver- and delivery-partners across the country free and equitable access to new learning and development opportunities to help them become more competitive in the digital-first economy.

Manulife launches Health Protect to help businesses better protect their employees

To help businesses in the Philippines protect their employees’ health and secure their future, Manulife has recently launched Health Protect, a one-year renewable term insurance plan that provides employees with health protection coverage of up to Php 5 million against various critical illnesses.*

Based on Manulife’s 2020 health study titled, “Understanding Filipino Sentiments Toward Health and Critical Illness,” among the top critical illnesses most feared by Filipinos are cancer, heart attack, and stroke. With Health Protect, companies can provide their employees with relevant health protection by choosing from any of its four protection bundles against: (a) cancer; (b) cancer, heart attack, and stroke (3 critical illnesses); (c) cancer + 57 other critical illnesses; or (d) 3 critical illnesses + 57 other clinical illnesses.

Businesses with full-time and active-at-work employees can purchase Health Protect for a minimum coverage amount of Php 50,000. For organizations with existing basic group life plans, they can also boost their employees’ protection with the new group critical illness riders. Businesses can opt to upgrade their plan to include additional coverage of up to Php 6 million.

“Pagkakaibigan at Bayanihan” Bersong EuroPinoy Goes to Manila on 28 May 2021 at 5pm

The charm and romance of the European and Filipino languages continue as “Bersong Euro-Pinoy” goes to Manila on 28 May 2021 at 5pm via facebook.com/EUDelegationToThePhilippines.

Together with the Embassies of Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Spain and Instituto Cervantes Manila, France, the Philippine-Italian Association, Hungary, Austria, Poland, Finland and the De La Salle University Manila, the European Union Delegation to the Philippines is mounting Bersong Euro-Pinoy,  “Pagkakaibigan at Bayanihan”, Verses Versus the Virus, in Manila. 

European Union Ambassador Luc Véron said that the poetry recital aims to bring hope, inspiration and avenues for cultural dialogue to both Europeans and Filipinos. 

realme PH achieves record-breaking first-day sales for 8 series; over 26,000 Filipinos ‘capture infinity’

 

realme solidifies its leadership in smartphone sales once again after the first day sale of the largely anticipated realme 8 Series on May 22. The country’s no. 1 smartphone brand for Q1 2021 according to research firms Canalys and IDC managed to win over the hearts and trust of over 26,000 Filipinos who put in orders for its latest smartphone offering.

The realme 8 Series was officially revealed to the public via a special livestream featuring Kathryn Bernardo on May 11 on the realme Philippines Facebook page and YouTube channel. Since then, the brand has generated a staggering amount of pre-orders for the realme 8 series.

The success of the realme 8 Series can be attributed to the elevated features of the realme 8 and the realme 8 Pro, both capturing the passions and interests of the brand’s young, digital-savvy demographic. One such passion is content creation, with both the realme 8 and the realme 8 Pro offering incredible camera features for every content-savvy user.

AirAsia joins various stakeholders in discussing tourism recovery in Bohol, calls for digitalization and vaccination of tourism frontliners

 

In its efforts to help boost tourism and economic recovery in Bohol, AirAsia participated in a meeting spearheaded by Bohol Governor Arthur C. Yap, to discuss “Prospects for Bohol Tourism in the Context of Current Realities in the War Against COVID”.

The virtual meeting took place on Monday, 24 May 2021, and was attended by guest speakers Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Vaccine Czar of the Philippines Secretary Carlito Galvez represented by Major General Mel Feliciano, Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship Secretary Joey Concepcion, Governor Arthur C. Yap, airline executives and business leaders from the Hotels and Resorts association.

The local government of Bohol shared its extensive plans on recovery and best practices in the implementation of bubble tourism which could also be a benchmark for other leisure destinations in the country.

Brother products win in the 2021 iF Design Awards

Continuing its 14-year streak of design excellence, Brother Industries, Ltd. has won big in the 2021 iF DESIGN AWARDS, taking home five recognitions for its various products and electronics.

The iF DESIGN AWARDS is an independent design competition organized by iF International Forum Design GmbH, and one of the most celebrated and valued symbols of design excellence in the world, with around 10,000 submissions from 60 countries.

Four of Brother’s products won an iF DESIGN AWARD:

Infinix redefines affordable gaming smartphones with the upgraded HOT 10 PLAY with MediaTek Helio G35 and 4 + 64 GB memory

Infinix, the premium online-driven smartphone brand, recently upgraded the HOT 10 PLAY in the Philippines and equipped it with the more powerful MediaTek Helio G35 Octa-core chip and increased capacity of 4GB RAM+64GB ROM.

Shaking up the affordable gaming smartphone category, the Infinix HOT 10 PLAY also sports a 6000mAh battery with Power Marathon Technology, a high-resolution 6.82″ screen, and a 13MP AI dual rear camera combined with an 8MP beauty front camera. It will be available in Aegean Blue; Morandi Green; Obsidian Black; 7° Purple.

The upgraded Infinix HOT 10 PLAY will be available on Lazada for Php 4,990 only. However, on Infinix Super Brand Day this May 28, the upgraded Infinix HOT 10 PLAY will be even more affordable at Php 4,590. Fans can bring this already amazing price even lower if they collect vouchers worth Php 100 on Lazada starting on May 25, making the final price of the new Infinix HOT 10 PLAY to Php 4,490.

Robinsons Department Stores adds to PayMaya's widest Add Money Network

 

PayMaya is making it easier for Filipinos to fund their e-wallet accounts as it further expands its Add Money network with Robinsons Department Store. 

Through this tie-up, PayMaya customers can now go to any of the 800 Add Money touchpoints located in Robinsons Department Stores nationwide. These new Add Money channels are the latest addition to PayMaya's most extensive network of over 250,000 digital payment touchpoints nationwide where Filipinos can add money, pay for purchases, remit funds, and cash out.

To make it also more convenient, PayMaya is also introducing an easier process for customers looking to top up their accounts at Robinsons Department Store with its Add Money via the Barcode feature.   

With this, PayMaya users no longer have to fill out forms when adding funds to their PayMaya account. All they have to do is simply show the add money barcode to the cashier and pay for their transaction. 

BDO reminds clients: “Think twice before you post on social media”

 

The Philippines remains the world’s social media capital, ranking at number one for the 6th straight year in the annual report by research agencies Hootsuite and We Are Social, which tracks global social media and internet usage.

In 2020, Filipinos logged in four hours and 15 minutes on social media every day. This record not only breaches its average of three hours and 53 minutes in 2019, but also the global average of two hours and 25 minutes in 2020.

With this much time spent on social media, BDO Unibank cautions the general public to be careful of the information they share. Scammers lurk online to steal personal information, which they use to access online bank accounts and steal money. They can also use it to open new bank accounts.

ePLDT transforms VITRO Data Centers in Pasig, Paranaque

 
ePLDT undertakes transformation programs for its VITRO Data Centers in Pasig (left) and Paranaque (right) to equip them with latest technologies

ePLDT, the ICT arm of PLDT Enterprise and the premier provider of end-to-end digital solutions in the Philippines, announced it is undertaking strategic transformation programs for its VITRO Data Center facilities in Pasig and Parañaque to better serve the digital requirements of industries today.

The transformation programs are set to drive sustainability for the two data centers and likewise make them at par with global data center standards and best practices to cater to the demand of the international market. The programs also aim to fortify the power efficiency, redundancy, and resiliency of the data center facilities through power systems upgrades and equipment modernization.

“We at ePLDT have been fully supportive of the growth and security of our customers. We continuously strengthen our infrastructure and services, and with these VITRO data centers being transformed, we ensure business continuity and successful digital transformation of enterprises,” said Jovy Hernandez, ePLDT President & CEO and SVP & Head for PLDT and Smart Enterprise Business Groups.

BSP grants EMI license for Bayad App

In the face of an expanding digital economy and the country’s aim to become a cash-lite society, Bayad, the Philippines’ most trusted payment authority, obtained its license to operate as an Electronic Money Issuer (EMI) from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

The EMI license authorizes the company to deliver e-wallet services through its newly revamped all-in-one pera transaction app, Bayad. The accreditation allows the company to convert consumers’ cash into electronic money which they can use to transact online to pay bills, remit money, purchase mobile load, and shop for products and services in partner merchant stores. In addition, customers can withdraw and add money to their Bayad wallets through online bank transfers and over-the-counter Bayad Centers.

Bayad App customers can soon expect to pay over 1,000 types of bills – from utilities, insurance, government contributions and services, and more – a service that has long been enjoyed by payers transacting through Bayad’s over 45,000 physical touchpoints nationwide. Other valuable services such as QR payments, rewards, insurance, savings accounts, personal loans, and credit scoring will also be enabled.

PIK | Designing real estate for life in the Metro

 

Having spent the better part of a year staying at home, Filipinos now see the value in integrating their most vital everyday activities within their private residences. Homebuyers with a keen-eye and are ready to invest in real estate now look for future-ready living spaces that not only provide comfort and style, but also efficiency, sustainability, and flexibility.

PIK, the largest homebuilder in Russia and Europe and the expert developer behind One Sierra, shared some of the elements they put into their maiden Philippine project to meet the current lifestyle needs of Filipinos looking to get a taste of European living in the metro.

Take on inter-bank fees & digital banking fraud

Last April 7, Philippine banks has started adopting the “acquirer-based automated teller machines (ATM) fee charging” (ABFC) model. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) mandated ABFC is a market-based pricing model that lets the ATM-owner—who invests in the machines and infrastructure to service cardholders—set the fees for transactions.

For the past seven years, ATM withdrawal fees range from P10 to P15. Now, the standard rate for withdrawal is P18, and P2.50 for balance inquiry. These fees are still reasonable considering the convenience that ATMs provide to consumers.

Under the ABFC, when you use your own bank’s ATM terminal, it shall remain FREE of charge. However, using ATMs of different banks will still incur fees but don’t worry because you have the option to choose an ATM terminal that charges the lowest fees and provides more reliable service.

MUST TRY: Tea Talk’s Top 10 drinks perfect for family summer bonding

For the second time around, it is imperative for Filipinos to spend the sunny season staying in residences due to the pandemic. Instead of the usual beach and swimming escapade, we are confined in the four corners of our home. Most people have come up with ways to have fun and beat the summer heat—setting up an inflatable pool, locking up in an airconditioned room while watching movies, and of course, drinking ice-cold beverages.

It’s a fact we could all agree on: one of the best ways to quench the thirst in this scorching heat is to drink milk tea. Having two consecutive summer seasons in lockdown, you must have ordered your favorite milk tea drinks from your usual milk tea shops. But hey, it’s time to switch it up! And we got the next best milk tea shop for you to try!

Accentuating its special milk tea concoctions made from authentic ingredients, Tea Talk is one of the up-and-coming local milk tea shops you should check out. Avoid going stir-crazy this quarantine and spark bonding conversations with your family with Tea Talk’s summer coolers.

PhilCare bringing first home care telemonitoring service for COVID-19 patients

Amid the influx of COVID-19 patients in hospitals, PhilCare — one of the Philippines’ most preferred health maintenance organizations (HMO) — has launched the country’s first-ever service that aims to provide utmost care for COVID-positive patients without leaving their homes.

PhilCare is now offering COVID Home Care Telemonitoring, an exclusive online consultation service for members who tested positive for the viral disease.

It allows affected members to receive advice from PhilCare’s Home Care doctors through video call, thus saving them from the need to visit the hospital and from spreading the disease, given there are now more infectious variants. It also saves their loved ones from possibly getting infected.

Experience Cool and Comfort with Sharp J-Tech Inverter Refrigerator and Air Conditioner

Enjoying the summer during this new normal situation will be a whole different dynamic. Due to travel restrictions, we cannot go to the beach or tour outside the country. But it also means that we can spend these hot days having fun and doing worthwhile things. This is a great opportunity to bond with our family or learn a new hobby.

As we do these things, Sharp Philippines wants to provide us a safe yet convenient experience as we stay inside our house within this hot weather.

With its elegant and functional refrigerators, no need to go out often for your ingredients when preparing a meal. You can stock up your necessities and food items, without worrying about what to cook for the next few days.

Here are some of the state-of-the-art inverter refrigerators from Sharp that can surely maintain the freshness and quality of your meat, veggies, and snacks:

ShopeePay Partners with Lifestyle Brands to Provide In-Store Payments Nationwide

 

As more individuals start to adopt digital payment methods like mobile wallets, ShopeePay, Shopee’s mobile wallet, partners with ten lifestyle brands to provide users contactless in-store payments. Starting today, consumers can safely pay with ShopeePay at National Bookstore, Penshoppe, Sebago, Kipling, Digital Walker, MemoXpress, Puregold, Newstar Shopping Mart, OXGN, and Regatta. 

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee is happy to partner with these top brands to make it easier, safer, and more convenient for users to transition and embrace alternative payment methods such as ShopeePay. As the nation continues its fight against the pandemic, we want our users to feel safe by using cashless transactions even if they’re shopping in-store. We will continue to collaborate with top brands from different categories to provide quality digital payment services to the Filipino consumers.”

To make the experience more rewarding, users who pay with ShopeePay via QR for in-store purchases will get 20% coins cashback* up to a maximum of ₱500 coins until June 20, 2021. There are two easy ways to Scan and Pay using ShopeePay:

7,500 antigen kits donated to OVP and LGUs

 

Trulaboratories Corp and Sterilab Company, distributors of SD Biosensor Standard Q Antigen Test Kits, recently donated 7,500 kits to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and various Local Government Units (LGUs) to support the government’s initiative of mass testing. The donations were made to help prevent the spread of COVID and increase the pace of testing in key cities in the Philippines.

According to Madeline Pajarillo, President and CEO of Trulaboratories Corp. the donations is the company’s way of supporting the government’s  anti-COVID program and to reach out to Filipinos who may not be able to afford high-quality rapid testing.  “Now, more than ever, test kits are needed so urgent treatment can be given to infected individuals and contacts can be isolated which is crucial in breaking the chains of transmission. Antigen testing is an essential tool in our fight against COVID. It can help our government in saving lives and in reopening the economy.”

From viewing art to cinema at home: A guide to picking the latest TV innovations in 2021

The Frame

The past year has been a reminder of the value that TVs bring to our homes and lifestyles. Once regarded as a device purely for watching TV and playing video games, they now double up as conference rooms, fitness hubs, and even a space for virtual socializing as we look towards a new normal in 2021 and beyond. 

Perhaps now is the best time for you to consider investing in a new TV for your living spaces, with the launch of Samsung’s latest Lifestyle TV innovations. Here’s a guide to picking the right TV that matches the demands of homes and lifestyles, today and tomorrow: 

How to get insurance coverage without leaving your home

Emma by AXA PH now allows Filipinos acquire AXA insurance products in the comforts of their homes.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has propelled rapid digital transformation. At the forefront of all this is AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, who has long been pushing for digital innovation, beginning with the Emma by AXA PH app, a one-stop shop app for all insurance needs.

“With the ongoing pandemic, we were presented with a new challenge to provide Filipinos with the accessible means to get insured in the safest and most convenient way, and that’s possible with the Emma by AXA PH app,” says Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer.  “Through this app, we are able to make our products and services easily accessible to all, anytime, anywhere.”

Cebuana Lhuillier International Payout Cash Panalo Promo concludes with senior citizen taking home PHP1M grand prize

Cebuana Lhuillier International Payout Cash Panalo winner Rosita Guerrero Nisperos recently received her winnings from Cebuana Lhuillier La Union Area Head Alan Paul Ramirez (left) and Deputy Area Head Jade Eulalio (rightmost). Joining her is husband Vuenabentura Nisperos.

A former asin vendor who used to peddle her wares along the streets of San Fernando, La Union emerged as the lucky winner of Cebuana Lhuillier’ year-long International Payout Cash Panalo Promo. Rosita Guerrero Nisperos, 62 years old, emerged victorious out of millions of entries to take home the One Million Pesos grand prize tax-free.

Cebuana Lhuillier International Payout Cash Panalo, which ran from March to December 2020 in all 2,500 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide, is the company’s way of showing its appreciation to the millions of OFWs working hard across the globe, by providing accessible financial services to their beloved families back in the Philippines.

“OFWs have always served as the unsung heroes of our local economy, and have always served as the strength and backbone for many of their families here in our country. At Cebuana Lhuillier, we are happy to serve as a partner in ensuring that the fruits of their hard work and labor, their hard-earned money, will be received quickly, safely, and efficiently by their families in the Philippines, no matter where they may be,” Cebuana Lhuillier president & CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

GMovies and UPSTREAM brings the iconic Glastonbury Festival to Filipinos

For more than a year now, all our favorite occasions to spend time with friends and relatives or just to enjoy our own me-time, have been paused indefinitely. All our road trips, food trips, family trips, barkada trips, parties, concerts, and assorted adventures have not been available to us for what seems like forever. 

For music-loving Filipinos who have missed the energy rush of attending performances in person, this absence of live entertainment has been distressing. But now, GMovies, together with Upstream, puts that to rest with an electrifying live-streaming experience with the iconic Glastonbury Festival, presented by Globe! One of the most famous and longest-running music festivals in the world, Glastonbury draws the biggest acts and hosts some of music’s most celebrated performances.

Featuring world-renowned artists such as Coldplay, Damon Albarn, HAIM, IDLES, Jorja Smith, Kano, Michael Kiwanuka, Wolf Alice, and more, the Glastonbury Festival is a five-hour global livestream event you wouldn’t want to miss. Scheduled to take place this May 23, 2021, tickets are now available for sale, each costing PHP 1,535.

Martin Garrix recruits U2’s Bono and The Edge for unity anthem ‘We Are The People’

Martin Garrix teams up with U2’s Bono and The Edge for the release of the official UEFA EURO 2020 song ‘We Are The People’—out now via Sony Music.

After more than a year of anticipation and having to keep this a secret, the track is now available to stream and download via all digital service providers. The song is accompanied by an official music video starring all three artists. The visuals work in synergy with the song and together make for an uplifting and inspiring story.

With the track in the making for three years, Garrix had felt from the early stages of the creative process that Bono’s vocals would make the perfect fit for ‘We Are the People’. His vision came to life when both Bono and his U2 bandmate The Edge agreed to feature on the song. The collaboration evolved further with Bono writing the lyrics and creating melodies and The Edge adding the leading guitar riffs, resulting in a perfect blend of the signature sounds of all artists. 

Stay fresh and flawless all summer with Spotlight Cosmetics

Spotlight Cosmetics Two-way Powder Foundation

Summer means sun, the beach, and poolside lounging, but on the other end of the spectrum it also means sweat and heat. Don’t let the hot temperatures dampen your style and mood! Luckily, Spotlight Cosmetics, the new local makeup brand that aims to empower Filipinas to transform their look, is here to help you with these essential tips to stay fresh and flawless in the summer:

Stay hydrated! Even when the air is humid, your skin may possibly be losing a lot of moisture. So be sure to follow the golden rule for the summer: keep yourself hydrated! This means drinking lots of water. Not only will this combat dry skin but it will improve your overall health and wellness.

Give your skin some TLC. Sometimes all that sweating can clog pores and cause breakouts. To avoid this, try adding skin cleansing to your daily routine. The basics include cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh rays of the sun. Having a good facial regimen will provide a clean canvas when you apply your makeup.

Check Out the Hottest Spark 6 and Camon 16 Summer Deals on Lazada and Shopee

Summer just got hotter with another major price slash happening at TECNO Mobile’s Flagship Store in Lazada and the TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee Mall. Beginning May 20, buyers can score a Spark 6 smartphone for only P5,999, and a Camon 16 unit for as low as P6,999. 

Through this exclusive summer price slash, global premier phone brand, TECNO Mobile continues to make high-performing, multitasking smartphones accessible and available to all Filipinos.

Powerful Features, All Yours at a Steal!

Globe K’mmunity and The Ripple Society to donate Tinytan Breathable Masks to say “kamsahamnida” to modern-day heroes

 
Happee, Boki, and Kimchi is on a mission to bring back happiness

Globe K’mmunity, together with youth-oriented non-government organization The Ripple Society, is on a mission to bring back smiles despite the pandemic.

During its second anniversary celebration last week, K’mmunity PH ecstatically announced that it has partnered with global K-pop group BTS’ cute animated characters: Tinytan!

As part of its commitment to keep K’tizens up to speed on the latest K-ollections, K’mmunity will be bringing in Tinytan’s Breathable Mask collection in the Philippines for K’Tizens, BTS fans, and K-pop fans alike! The collection will be available through Globe’s 0917 Lifestyle website starting May 17.

UNIQLO launches new game wear for Roger Federer

 

UNIQLO, the Japanese global apparel retailer, today announces new replica game wear for styles to be worn by Roger Federer at the 2021 French Open * . The game wear was designed and developed at the UNIQLO Paris R&D Center, led by Christophe Lemaire, in consultation with the athlete. The line-up will include kids’ sizes. Federer’s iconic “RF” cap will also be offered in two colorway options to match the game wear. Items will be available at UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship store and on uniqlo.com/ph online store starting Monday, May 24th.

Roger Federer commented: “The UNIQLO design team and I have been working on this outfit for over a year now, and we are happy to finally show you at my return to tennis later this month. We hope you agree the colors go so well with the red clay and beautiful Paris in spring. I want to thank the team for their hard work, and I look forward to seeing everyone again very soon.”

Smart lets you enjoy exclusive GigaPoints discounts on GigaDays

 

Mark your calendars as leading mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (SMART) lets subscribers enjoy exclusive rewards, discounts, and perks when they use their GigaPoints during GigaDays, happening every 19th to 22nd of the month starting this May.

On these special days every month, Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers may score up to 50% – 66% discount on redeemable GigaPoints rewards, so they can avail more of their favorite promos like GIGA Video, GIGA Stories, GIGA Games, GIGA Pro and Unli-Data Promo.

Smart Bro & PLDT Home WiFi Prepaid subscribers are also eligible to avail of GIGA Video & GIGA Pro at a discount.

WWF-PH Celebrates Anniversary with #OneWorld2021 Photo Campaign

 
Bella Ysmael, The Philippine Eagle and Rainforest

The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines celebrated the WWF network’s anniversary this 2021 by partnering with Project Headshot Clinic for a collaborative photo campaign to remind us of our connection to Earth.

The campaign entitled #OneWorld2021 asked WWF-Philippines’ supporters to submit their photos to Project Headshot Clinic, who digitally merged their profile pictures with nature and wildlife shots, turning them into beautiful works of art.

MSI Unveils New Gaming and Creator Laptop Lineup

MSI, a leading manufacturer of business, design and gaming technology, is proud to announce its new lineup of laptops powered by the latest Intel® 11th Gen H series processors and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3080 Laptop GPU. Having expanded to creators’ terrain in recent years, MSI has perked up to materialize the concept where design is the bond between dreaming it and doing it through “Tech Meets Aesthetic”. The new laptops continue MSI’s trend of producing top-tier, powerful machines with aesthetic touches that enhance user experience and unleash the inner gamer and creator spirits.

With a 30% performance upgrade over previous models, the high-speed combo of PCIe Gen4, Thunderbolt 4, and Wi-Fi 6E, heighten increased enhancements. For the gaming lineup, MSI-exclusive features like “Discrete Graphics Mode” improve graphics performance, while MSI Center allows users to overclock the GPU with ease.

MSI’s new Creator series includes enhanced features like True Pixel QHD+ and Mini LED displays. MSI has also updated their well-loved gaming series, including GE Raider, GP Leopard and GS Stealth laptops. The new Pulse GL, Sword, and Katana GF visual images, designed by international graphic artists, round out the lineup.

Shoppers get to enjoy big rewards when they use PayMaya at PH's leading grocery brands

This May, PayMaya is giving their users a safer and more rewarding way to shop whenever they #ScanToPay with PayMaya QR at the country’s biggest supermarkets. 

Up to P650 cashback awaits PayMaya users who will #ScanToPay with PayMaya QR at their favorite supermarkets including WalterMart, Robinsons Supermarket, The Marketplace, Shopwise, Super 8, Landers Superstore, and many others. 

Grocery shoppers who will use PayMaya QR and spend at least P1,000 worth of groceries for the first time will automatically get P100 cashback. Meanwhile, returning users will receive P50 cashback which they can enjoy twice until May 31, 2021. For a full list of the partner merchants participating in this promo, visit https://www.paymaya.com/deals/maygrocery2021. 

Brother Philippines associates renew commitment to conserving the environment on Earth Day

 

In the spirit of helping save the environment, Brother Philippines associates renewed their promise toward sustainability and conservation with #MyEarthPromises on this year’s Earth Day last April 22.

Brother associates from both the Philippines and the Asia Pacific region gamely showed their promises in two videos published on YouTube and the company’s social media accounts. Commitments ranged from vowing to do plastic-free living, to reducing energy consumption by unplugging unused appliances and electronics, to proper waste segregation, just to name a few.

“On Earth Day this year, we realize now more than ever the importance of saving the planet, which is why we renew our own promises to help the environment from within our own organization,” said Glenn Hocson, president of Brother Philippines.

Perfect XTREME Appliances for every kind of mother for as low as ₱995!

Home appliances have always been the most popular gifts to mothers for special occasions especially Mother’s day. As a matter of fact, no mom will ever say no to another practical and useful appliance thus making it a perfect present anytime of the year. However, one of the struggles is choosing the kind of appliances that perfectly fits every kind of mothers. Luckily, XTREME Appliances, your local One-Stop Shop Appliances brand, has a wide range of products for every kind of mothers. 

With everyone working from home most of the time or the current homeschooling set up for kids, it is not a surprise that these new arrangements have been taking a toll on our parents, especially our mothers. From cleaning, cooking, or just creating a more comfortable household environment, choosing the right appliances would be beneficial and will save our mothers a lot of their time.

Delta named among TIME100’s Most Influential Companies

 

Delta Air Lines is among the TIME100 Most Influential Companies of 2021 – the only airline to make the list of “businesses making an extraordinary impact around the world.” This new list is an expansion of the iconic TIME100, known for sharing the top 100 most influential people of the year.

Categorized as a ‘leader’ for ‘thinking ahead,’ Delta was recognized for its focus on customers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic – specifically calling out that, under CEO Ed Bastian’s leadership, Delta was the only major airline to keep middle seats open to allow more spacing between passengers for more than a year.

Epson launches first 76-inch Industrial Dye-Sublimation Textile Printer with LcLm Inks and Fluorescent Solution

 

Epson expands its 76” printer series and offers customers greater flexibility with the SC-F10030H, a new dye-sublimation printer that comes with two additional colour options: Fluorescent Yellow and Fluorescent Pink or Light Cyan and Light Magenta, to address the market’s fluorescent and light ink colour demand.

This new dye-sublimation textile printer is the first in Epson’s textile large format printer genre with 6 new PrecisionCore™ Micro TFP printheads and the option for Light Cyan and Light Magenta (LcLm) inks. Working together, these new features enable the highest productivity possible in continuous printing of bright, vibrant textiles.

The textile industry is ever-changing, and the ability to manufacture unique printed textiles on short production run is quickly becoming a business advantage. From delivering production efficiency to producing spectacular print quality, Epson’s SC-F10030H helps businesses evolve and move to the next level.

Ahead of the Expected: LG HVAC Solutions Star in New Brand Video

Now that the blistering heat of Summer has officially started, air-conditioning units have become a godsend. Especially in hospitals and other areas where frontliners are working tirelessly in, having access to cool, clean air helps tremendously. Unseen, unheralded and often underappreciated, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions are the unsung heroes of modern life that bring thermal comfort and freshness to all kinds of places. Merging seamlessly into the background, HVAC is what keeps the air in our homes, offices, hospitals, hotels, shopping malls – and wherever else you care to name – blissfully cool in the summer and fresh and healthy all year around. 

A Prominent Player in the Global HVAC Market

For more than half a century, LG Electronics (LG) has been a leading innovator in the commercial HVAC solution space, supporting its customers to thrive and grow with its technologically advanced products. With an innovative product portfolio, solid R&D foundation and more than 50 academies located around the world recognized for producing highly skilled experts, the company has been strengthening its industrial leadership by offering a full range of optimal solutions that cover pretty much every sector and setting out there.

Live your best life: Learn more about gum health at Gumtalk with Gumtect

To help more Filipinos improve their overall health through better gum care, Gumtect is inviting Filipinos to tune in to “Gumtalk with Gumtect” web show happening on May 20, 4:00 PM at Gumtect’s Facebook page, facebook.com/Gumtect.

Our lifestyles may have changed drastically during the pandemic, especially as lockdowns continue to be enforced in many cities. As we are asked to stay at home to help fight the spread of the virus, we also have to deal with various situations like working and studying from home. Visits to the dentist and caring for our oral health can sometimes be neglected in the midst of these challenges. 

But taking care of our teeth and gums is not only essential to maintaining a healthy mouth; good oral care is also closely linked to our overall health.  

TESDA and Nestlé to boost coffee production skills with joint training program

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Nestlé Philippines today announced their partnership to upskill workers and trainers in the agriculture sector through the TESDA registered Coffee Production Level II Program and Scholarship. This progressive Robusta coffee production training program provides enterprise-based competency training in coffee farming to aspiring agripreneurs, particularly smallholder farmers and indigenous peoples.

“With this program, we will enable the farmers and our IP coffee growers to produce quality beans that are at par with the standards of Nestle Philippines. We will also be able to help them increase their yields and help them pursue a more sustainable livelihood. This partnership will scale the impact of the work we do in TESDA for the farmers and IPs. We also commit our pool of highly-skilled trainors and TESDA facilities as additional learning sites to ensure that we can accommodate as many farmer-beneficiaries as possible,” said the TESDA chief Secretary Isidro Lapeña.

Through this program, TESDA will train trainers for effective conduct of the curriculum; and provide a scholarship fund under TESDA’s Program on Accelerating Farm School Establishment (PAFSE) so that eligible farmers can enhance their knowledge and skills in planting, maintaining and harvesting coffee. Moreover, enrollees will learn to adopt an entrepreneurial approach in managing small farm operations of one to 10 hectares, and gain the skills to effectively market their coffee beans to buyers such as Nestlé. 

Globe at Home gives free data to new internet subscribers

As part of its commitment to creating wonderful experiences for Filipinos to have access to better choices and enjoy life, Globe is making the internet accessible by giving away a limited-time offer of a FREE HomeSURF99 promo to new Globe at Home subscribers.

Purchase and activate your Globe at Home device (Myfi, Home Prepaid WiFi, Xtreme Prepaid WiFi, and LTE-Advanced Prepaid WiFi) through Globe’s partner merchants from May 15 to June 15, 2021, and gain access to your favorite blockbuster movies and dramas, pay mobile games, and catch up with family and friends on social media with HomeSURF99.

Manulife Investment Management’s UITFs lead PH’s top-performing offshore funds

 

Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corporation’s top-performing unit investment trust funds (UITFs) delivered more than 50% Year-on-Year (YoY) growth as of March 2021. These UITFs, available in both peso and US dollar currencies, include:

Manulife American Growth Equity Feeder Fund with 63.51% and 70.56% YoY performance in peso and dollar, respectively, invests in a distinct portfolio of equity-related securities of large capitalization North American companies with sustainable competitive advantages and trade at a discount to their intrinsic value.

Manulife Dragon Growth Equity Feeder Fund with 54.36% and 61.23% YoY performance in peso and dollar, respectively, invests in a portfolio of equity-related securities of public companies which are listed in Hong Kong, and/or, although not listed in Hong Kong, are listed on a stock exchange in another jurisdiction and have any substantial business interests in Hong Kong and/or China.

Grab Philippines announces GrabBayanihan Vaccination Support Program

Grab Philippines today launched its GrabBayanihan Vaccination Support Program to help increase vaccine access and education for Filipinos. The program includes a range of measures to encourage all consumers and driver- and delivery-partners to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Grab Philippines will also work closely with the national and local government units and leverage its ground fleet network and app to offer mobility, communications, and logistics support for their respective vaccination programs.

In a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia, it revealed that 61 percent of Filipinos don’t wish to get inoculated with a COVID-19 vaccine even if the shot is available. GrabBayanihan Vaccination Support Program is focused on vaccine access and education. As the Philippines begins to roll out vaccinations, Grab is committed to supporting informed and equitable access to vaccines for all Filipinos. 

MR. D.I.Y. The Good Bag Continues

MR.D.I.Y. relaunches its CSR campaign dubbed as The Good Bag which aims to support a community of mothers sewing tote bags to support their families.

MR.D.I.Y.’s inaugural launch of The Good Bag back in 2020 focused on conservation of the environment. This year, the home and lifestyle improvement retailer, brings its advocacy closer to the customers by providing support to the community of mothers.

51Talk unveils Maine Mendoza as its new brand ambassador

 

Today’s young professionals like to keep their options open by pursuing different endeavors that align with their interests. Through this constant exploration, it has become common for many Filipinos to become multifaceted as they take on many roles, even those that are beyond their professional careers.

Such is the case for many online English teachers at the NYSE-listed online English education platform 51Talk. Among its 30,000 plus active Filipino teachers, many of them are juggling other responsibilities when they’re not in the virtual classrooms. Whether it’s running their own business, pursuing graduate studies, having a regular day job, or even all of the above, a typical 51Talk teacher wears many hats in both his personal and professional life.

Recently, 51Talk has announced Maine Mendoza as its newest celebrity ambassador. Aside from being a reputable actress and TV personality, Maine is also a writer, singer, and entrepreneur, which makes her the perfect embodiment of 51Talk teachers.

Saying "Yes" to Beauty Inclusivity: Inspiring Stories of Women who Embraced their Individuality through Livestreaming

 

Shopee Livestreamers Bianca Umali and Mary Grace Khu share their journeys to self-acceptance

Coming to terms with yourself, flaws and all—and in the age of social media, no less—can be difficult. When unrealistic beauty standards are reinforced everywhere you look, self-acceptance doesn’t always come easy. 

As a top beauty and personal care company in the country, Unilever acknowledges its role in championing a new era of beauty. Through projects such as Dove My Hair, My Say and Real Beauty, Unilever resolves to make beauty a positive and inclusive experience for all. As its next step towards celebrating the beauty in diversity, Unilever launches Yes to Positive Beauty on Shopee this May 17-19. The campaign aims to encourage Filipinos to embrace their unique beauty, support inclusivity, and say “Yes” to Positive Beauty. 

Need a little inspiration saying “Yes” to Positive Beauty yourself? Follow two Shopee livestreamers’ journeys to self-love below: