Samsung Philippines unveils latest generation of foldables and wearables with a grand launch

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Samsung Electronics Philippines Co. (SEPCO) representatives and partners toast to a momentous evening.

After its Galaxy Unpacked in New York, Samsung Philippines celebrated the launch of the latest Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4, Watch5 Series and Buds2 Pro with a live event, “The Greater Galaxy”, held at the Grand Ballroom of Grand Hyatt Manila last August 19, 2022.
Attendees of the event were treated to a special program and witnessed the reveal of themed experiential zones centered around the latest innovations and passions the devices aimed to capture.

The new Galaxy Z Flip4 is unveiled at the FlexCam booth alongside #TeamGalaxy ambassador Nicole Andersson and Product Marketing Manager of the Galaxy Z Series, Mik Manalastas

Meanwhile, the new Galaxy Z Fold4 was introduced at the Productivity Zone, which highlighted the multitasking capabilities of the phone with its multi-window feature and upgraded taskbar.
The new Galaxy Z Flip4 and Galaxy Z Fold4 impressed attendees with its upgraded features, including a new improved chipset, stronger aluminum frames and corning glass, making the latest foldables the most powerful and most durable yet.
Those who were able to experience Samsung’s latest ecosystem devices were also pleased to find new upgrades. The Galaxy Watch5 Series improved on its health and sleep tracking, while the Galaxy Buds2 Pro’s Intelligent Active Noise Cancellation was a feature that stood out.

Samsung Philippines President Min Su Chu addresses the attendees of the Greater Galaxy Event with his opening remarks.

Official Pre-order Bundles and Offers

The latest Galaxy Z series is available for pre-order until September 1, 2022 via samsung.com. Customers can enjoy a Galaxy Z Fold4 FREE Standing Cover with Pen worth PHP 4,899 or a Galaxy Z Flip4 FREE Clear Slim Cover worth PHP 1,199, plus a FREE Super Fast Wireless Charger Duo worth PHP 4,599, 50% off on the new Galaxy Buds2 Pro, 30% off on the new Galaxy Watch5 Series, and 1 Year FULL PROTECTION Screen & Device worth PHP 9,499 with Samsung Care+.

Customers can also pre-order through Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com and MemoXpress Online and a FREE Standing Cover with Pen worth PHP 4,899 and a Super Fast Wireless Charger worth PHP 3,099 when they pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold4. Customers to pre-order the Galaxy Z Flip4 can get a FREE Clear Slim Cover worth PHP 1,199, plus a Super Fast Wireless Charger Duo worth PHP 4,599. In addition, customers can enjoy 50% off on the new Galaxy Buds2 Pro, 30% off on the new Galaxy Watch5 Series, and 1 Year SCREEN PROTECTION worth up to PHP 7,880 with Samsung Care+.

Starting September 2, 2022, the Galaxy Z Fold4 and Z Flip4 will be available starting at PHP 58,990 in Bora Purple, Pink Gold, Blue and Phantom Black, while the Galaxy Z Fold4 will start at PHP 98,990 in Gray Green and Phantom Black. Customers can also avail of the 256GB variant in Beige, exclusively released in samsung.com.

The Galaxy Buds2 Pro is also available for pre-order until September 1, 2022. Customers can choose from a PHP 1,500 Token for Samsung mobile products or 50% off on Galaxy Buds2 Pro and 30% off on Galaxy Watch5 Series when they purchase the Galaxy Z Fold4 or Z Flip4.

Customers who pre-order the Galaxy Watch5 Series can get a FREE Galaxy Buds Live worth PHP 7,990 and 50% off on the new Galaxy Buds2 Pro. When purchased with the new Galaxy Z Fold4 or Z Flip4, they can also get 30% off on the Galaxy Watch5 Series, and 50% off on the new Galaxy Buds2 Pro. The Galaxy Buds2 Pro will be available starting September 2, 2022 at PHP 12,990 in Bora Purple, Graphite and White.

To learn more about the new Galaxy devices, visit samsung.com/ph.

View more photos from the Greater Galaxy event below:

Samsung Philippines President Min Su Chu greeted valued members of the media.

Samsung Philippines Product Marketing Head for Mobile Experience Jun Guevara shares the rich story behind the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4, Watch5 Series and Buds2 Pro

Isabella Concepcion, Marketing Communications Head for Mobile Experience, gives a tour of the Samsung Galaxy | BTS Zone with #TeamGalaxy Ambassador Nicole Andersson and host Laura Lehmann.

Product Category Head for Ecosystem, Jeli King, and #TeamGalaxy Ambassador Erwan Heussaff introduced attendees to the ecosystem zone.

Marketing Communications Manager of Flagship Smartphones, Patricia Cui, introduces the mechanics for the Clack Flex Challenge as well as exciting events to happen in the coming months.

Official Photos of the latest devices by Samsung (Galaxy Z Flip4, Galaxy Z Fold4, Galaxy Buds2 Pro, Galaxy Watch5 Pro, Galaxy Watch5

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

Clinical Test Shows Real World Effectiveness of Difflam-C® vs COVID-19 Sore Throat

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Dr. Jennifer Nailes, MD 9 (leftmost), and Dr. Roberto Salvino, MD, the doctors who spearheaded the recent study done to evaluate the effectivity of the Difflam-C gargle against COVID 19-related throat pain were at a media roundtable held recently in Makati City, to reveal their findings. iNova Pharma Philippines Inc.

The in-vivo study focused on establishing whether the combination of Benzydamine HCl and Chlorhexidine gluconate in Difflam-C® are effective in a real-world setting and was conducted on 219 COVID-19 patients from November 2021 until February 2022. This combination of active ingredients found in Difflam-C® solution have been gaining popularity in the Philippines particularly among doctors and healthcare professionals, with the synergistic action of its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anesthetic, and antiseptic properties in relieving sore throat, as well as other symptoms of throat and mouth infection.

Clinically-tested Efficacy in COVID-19 Patients

Lead investigators of the study have found that Difflam-C® significantly relieves the COVID-19 patients’ sore throat and alleviated throat discomfort associated with difficulty and/or pain in swallowing. Results also show that it helps shorten the duration of the said condition of COVID-19 patients, with the VAS scores of participants significantly decreased during course of treatment with Difflam-C®. “At specified time intervals, median VAS scores showed a decreasing trend from baseline until after 12 hours of Day 1 and is significantly different from baseline values (p<0.001). There were some participants whose sore throat pain were relieved within 30 minutes of first use of the solution which persisted even until after 12 hours,” said lead investigator Dr. Jennifer M. Nailes, MD, MSPH, Vice-President for Research of the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Inc. Gargle Against COVID-19 Sore Throat “There was a noticeable shortening of the course of the sore throat in the study subjects, with their use of Difflam-C® during treatment. This gargle solution could be viewed as an effective treatment for patients with odynophagia (painful swallowing) or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), conditions associated with severe sore throat among COVID-19 patients,” said Dr. Nailes. Though yet to be published by Acta Medica Philippina, a peer-reviewed general medical and health science journal, these results are extremely encouraging and present a positive step in addressing the COVID-19 sore throat, using a widely available medicated gargle solution such as Difflam-C® in the study. As cases rise and new Omicron variants are discovered, the results of this study could be valuable information in making the public more aware of clinically tested remedies to help address key symptoms like the COVID-19 sore throat. While Benzydamine HCl + Chlorhexidine gluconate (Difflam-C®) could be an effective treatment for COVID-19 sore throat, getting vaccinated with boosters, the observance of standard health protocols, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are the current mainstays for the prevention of COVID-19 infection.

“Your Song of Excellence” is back for a much bigger and better Season 2

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LAST year, three musical hopefuls who have dreamt of making it big in the music industry in the Philippines accomplished their goal of achieving musical excellence through “Your Song of Excellence,” a virtual singing competition that took the country by storm.
For Grand Champions Edel Quibol, Renz Robosa, and music groujp Monzterjam, it was a dream come true that changed their lives forever.
And now, this year, from hordes of auditionees, a new set of individuals who value musical excellence will be crowned as music royalty in the Philippines as “Your Song of Excellence,” organized by Taiwan Excellence, is back for its second season, and promises to be bigger, fresher and more innovative.
With a total prize pool amounting to a whopping P1,000,000 worth of cash and products up for grabs, plus a recording deal with major recording company Ivory Music, one of the biggest independent record labels in the country, “Your Song of Excellence” Season 2 will be the perfect platform for those who dream of becoming a real-life recording artist.
For this year, “Your Song of Excellence” Season 2 will have a fresh set of judges who will once again meticulously assess the performances of each of the contestants. Tasked to do this are #YourSongOfExcellence2022 jurors led by pop-rock royalty and singer-songwriter Yeng Constantino, music producer and songwriter Paulo Zarate, multi-awarded vocalist of local rock band Wolfgang and singer-songwriter Basti Artadi, and award-winning singer and composer Noel Cabangon. They will be joined by acclaimed TV, film and theater actress Bituin Escalante, one of last season’s judges.
And also, a new set of musical categories will be introduced for “Your Song of Excellence” Season 2. The categories include #EpicRock for singers who love to belt out rock and pop rock music, #HeartsAtHome for those who love going ballad in their performance, and #FreshVibes for those whose singing talents cover acoustic music.
“Your Song of Excellence” Season 2 is open to all male, female, and group amateur and professional singers. They must be Filipino citizens and residing in the Philippines, must be 18 years old and above upon submitting their audition video, must present a valid government or school I.D. and must not have an existing recording contract.
Is that dream of becoming a musical star still alive? Here’s your chance to make that dream a reality. Register for “Your Song of Excellence” Season 2 via https://bit.ly/YSOE2022Auditionor email your audition video at yoursongofexcellence2022@gmail.com.
Deadline for submission of audition entries is on August 10, 2022. To know more of contest mechanics, visit https://bit.ly/YSOE2CONTESTMECHANICS.
“Your Song of Excellence” Season 2 is organized by Taiwan Excellence, with premier brands Aromase PH, Asus PH, and Predator Gaming as sponsors, with Ivory Music as music partner and Far Eastern University as performing arts partner.
Major brand partners include Acer Philippines, Annie’s Way 安妮絲薇果凍面膜第一品牌, FECA PH, Johnson Fitness Philippines, LUFTQI空氣淨化專家, Transcend Philippines, Zyxel.ph, Dacian, and Tatung.

Great tech and gaming deals are coming your way this August!

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Here are 5 things you can do at SM this Cyber Month

SM Supermalls is celebrating tech and innovation this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022. It’s going to be an #AweSM, action-packed month at SM with these activities and offerings that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

Experience the Great Gadget Sale

Truly, there is no place like SM Cyberzone when it comes to the hottest tech deals and the lowest price guaranteed gadgets. Get your hands on the best deals, special promos, and bundles on select items with up to 60% off in participating stores at the Great Gadget Sale. Delightful, tech-citing deals are up for grabs at SM Cyberzone, SM Appliance, and The SM Store Gadgets!

Hop on the Gadget Lab

From fun, entertaining displays and touch & try product exhibits, to interactive product guides and the latest gadgets available in the Philippines, go crazy over all things tech at the Gadget Lab. See for yourself all the best smart home devices, gaming, productivity devices, and smartphones on display in the activity areas.

See what the future of tech and gaming looks like

Aside from the epic battles, you can also see what the future of tech and gaming looks like at the PlayZone. Immerse yourself in the live demonstrations of the newest gaming technology there is! You can also check out the gaming pods, gaming set-ups, and PC rig displays in the activity area.

Witness some action at the PlayZone

SM Supermalls is bringing together e-sports players and mobile gamers for some intense and epic battles. Tag along with your gaming squad and watch the gamers outplay each other at the special exhibition matches.

Grab the special deals exclusive via the SM Online App

But if you can’t go to any SM Cyberzone branches in the Philippines, there’s still a way for you to score these offerings and discounts. All you have to do is download the SM Malls Online App, add to your cart all your tech must-haves, use the voucher deals in-app, and just pick up the items at the SM mall near you.

For first time shoppers, SM Malls Online is offering a P200 OFF when you use voucher code SMGOESONLINE upon checkout. Shop for your favorite tech brands and gadget needs! Download now the SM Malls Online app here – https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/btxb3s1w

“The #SMCyberMonth2022 is a celebration of tech and gadgets that can definitely make our lives more fun, easier, and convenient. And no matter what your interest is– may it be gaming, virtual reality, smart home, music, or smartphone photography – there will be something for you at Cyberzone!” said SM Supermalls President, Steven Tan.

Experience all these and more this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022! Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls’ official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram so you won’t miss out on all the cool happenings in your favorite SM mall.

Pru Life UK taps Ben&Ben as an ally to help Filipino families get the most out of life

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Leading life insurer Pru Life UK officially introduced Ben&Ben as its new brand ambassador to help more Filipino families get the most out of life at a fun-filled family day event held at The Island in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

At the launch, the company talked about how the band perfectly aligns with the company’s progressive and inclusive approach in defining a family. Testament to this is the insurer’s recently announced product called PRUHealth FamLove, a first-of-its-kind yearly renewable life insurance and critical illness plan that protects up to four family members under one policy. Under this plan, family members also include same-sex or common-law partners, parents, and adoptive children.

“Like many Filipino families, Ben&Ben is diverse, inclusive, and warmhearted. They resonate with the strong family ties that Filipinos are known for representing both the traditional and modern Filipino families. We are delighted to welcome Ben&Ben into our Pru Life UK family as our new brand ambassador and ally in helping more Filipino families get the most of life,” said Pru Life UK General Manager and Chief Commercial Officer Gilbert Simpao.

The top-rating Original Pilipino Music band who serenaded the crowd with its top hits such as Paninindigan Kita, Kathang Isip and Pagtingin, is a perfect example of both traditional and progressive Filipino families who are doing great things together, recognizing their differences, and celebrating diversity and inclusivity.

The event is Ben&Ben’s first public performance as Pru Life UK’s ally to help Filipino families of different types and sizes get the most out of their lives through PRUHealth FamLove, and its unique and game changing features. The product is designed for customers to share their critical illness protection coverage with different types of family members, including single parents, cohabiting partners, LGBTQ+ partners, and adoptive family members.

The product is also the first in the country as it provides coverage should any major organs require surgery, without the need to remember the long list of critical illnesses. This is a new generation of solutions designed to provide customers with simple, flexible and future-proof protection benefits against unknown diseases. It also provides long-term coverage until age 85.

“Strengthening Filipino families through financial wellness is one of our biggest advocacies at Pru Life UK. We want every Filipino household to have peace of mind by bringing protection closer to everyone. PRUHealth Famlove, with its shareability feature, is a step forward in achieving that as it gives families an affordable and accessible life protection option,” Pru Life UK Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Marketing Officer Allan Tumbaga said.

In celebration of family diversity and championing individuality, Pru Life UK launched Famvatar, a unique digital experience that lets anyone create a personalized group avatar starring one’s family. Users can then use their unique, fun-filled chat stickers in group chats and more.

To make a Famvatar and know more about Pru Life UK’s PRUHealth FamLove, please visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.

About Pru Life UK

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK is the pioneer of insuravest, or investment-linked life insurance products, in the Philippines and is one of the first life insurance companies approved to distribute US dollar-denominated investment-linked life insurance policies in the country. Since its establishment, Pru Life UK has expanded its reach to over 190 branches in the Philippines, with the biggest life agency force of about 35,000 licensed agents.
The company ranked first (1st) among the country’s life insurers based on the Insurance Commission’s Full Year 2021 rankings in terms of new business annual premium equivalent. Pru Life UK is headquartered in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Pru Life UK and Prudential plc are not affiliated with Prudential Financial, Inc. (a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America), Prudential Assurance Company (a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom), Philippine Prudential Life Insurance Company, Prudentialife Plans, Inc. or Prudential Guarantee and Assurance, Inc. (all Philippine-registered companies). Pru Life UK is a life insurance company and is not engaged in the business of selling pre-need plans.
For more information: www.prulifeuk.com.ph

GSMI leads World Gin Day celebration in PH with ‘Gin Bar Crawl’ challenge

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After more than two years of pandemic disruptions, Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the maker of the world’s no. 1 selling gin, returns to celebrate World Gin Day (WGD) in true Ginebra fashion. The celebration consists of month-long activities, highlighted by a media launch on June 10 to kick off the nationwide Gin Bar Crawl challenge that starts on June 11.

Held every second Saturday of June, WGD was first celebrated on June 13, 2009, in Birmingham, England. GSMI led the first WGD celebration in the Asia Pacific region in 2014, coinciding with the 180th anniversary of its flagship brand, Ginebra San Miguel. Since then, the WGD celebration in the Philippines has become a much-awaited, month-long event for gin enthusiasts.

On June 10, four of the country’s top professional mixologists will take centerstage to craft one-of-a-kind cocktails based on GSMI’s gin products. It promises to be an unforgettable gin experience, stirring up the senses.

GIN BAR CRAWL

People who are trooping back to the bars after a long hiatus are in for an exciting and unique experience with the Gin Bar Crawl challenge. Gin lovers are invited to try five specially-concocted signature drinks made with GSMI gin products (Ginebra San Miguel, GSM Blue, GSM Premium Gin, and 1834 Premium Distilled Gin) or buy a GSMI featured product at any of the 30 partner establishments nationwide on June 11, 17, 18, 24, and 25 from 6 p.m. to 12 midnight.

Participants will be given a Gin Passport with five sticker slots. All they need to do is buy the five different signature WGD cocktails from the partner bars and have their Gin Passports stamped with five corresponding stickers. One drink is equivalent to one sticker. Those who complete five stickers will receive a WGD Finisher Pack, consisting of three GSMI products, and a finisher T-shirt.

GIN IS IN: COOL, CLEAR, AND VERSATILE

The gin-drinking culture is very much alive in many countries, especially in Europe. Gin has been around since the 17th century but it has remained popular, hip, and loved by many to this day. The enduring fame of the drink can be attributed to its cool vibe.

The rise of the craft gin movement has also spurred a collection of unique blends that everyone — especially the young, can enjoy. Gin’s clear, pure quality is derived from a rigorous distillation process that brings out its best flavors. Gin is also an ideal drink for its versatility, as it can be enjoyed straight or mixed with other ingredients in a cocktail. With an abundance of flavors and accessibility, gin continues to be an all-time favorite among spirits.

In the Philippines, gin is synonymous with brand Ginebra San Miguel. It is the country’s pioneering gin and the oldest consumer brand still in the market today.

The brand, already an award winner as early as the late 1900s, was originally a drink for the wealthy—popular among both peninsulares and insulares. To this day, Ginebra San Miguel continues its legacy of excellence. Its white spirits line has been a consistent Gold Quality Label awardee of the Monde Selection International Quality Institute.

Reaping accolades both locally and internationally, Ginebra San Miguel is the epitome of excellence. Every bottle of Ginebra San Miguel goes through a stringent production process to ensure optimal quality. As a testament to the strength of its brand name, variants such as GSM Blue, GSM Blue Flavors, and Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, have been introduced to cater to different market segments.

NEW INNOVATIONS

GSMI continues to innovate and cater to the varied tastes of its different markets.
Among its latest creations is the 1834 Premium Distilled Gin. Infused with classic juniper berries, and unique Philippine botanicals such as Sampaguita and Calamansi, 1834 appeals to sophisticated tastes.

Another exciting new product from the GSM Blue Flavors is the GSM Blue Cosmopolitan. This new flavor is a mix of sweet and tangy notes from Cranberries and Lime. Patrons of the GSM Premium Gin will also have a more exquisite experience with its new look and enhanced flavor of natural ingredients such as juniper berries, botanical essences, and citrus flavors.

GSMI also previously released the Ginebra San Miguel Hari, a 1-liter version of the flagship brand, Ginebra San Miguel that is designed for group drinking. Packaged in a bigger Frasco or Kwatro Kantos, the Hari is the perfect size for a barkada or family of four to five. The Ginebra San Miguel Hari also bears the Ginebra San Miguel label with the iconic St. Michael logo made by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo.

“Through our World Gin Day activities, we hope that more Filipinos will gain a deeper appreciation of gin and enjoy a unique gin-drinking experience made more special by GSMI’s world-class products,” said GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina.

Apart from the Gin Bar Crawl challenge, other WGD activities include online videos on the gin attributes and gin-drinking experience as well as pocket events on June 11 in Baguio, Naga, Cebu, and Davao to drum up the celebration.

For list of partner bars and restaurants for the Gin Crawl challenge, see attached.

GSMI is the producer of Ginebra San Miguel, the world’s largest-selling gin according to leading global drinks journal Drinks International. GSMI’s other quality distilled spirits include GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Añejo Gold Rum, Primera Light Brandy, and the Philippines’ no. 1 Chinese wine Vino Kulafu.

UNIQLO Introduces Its Latest EZY Ankle Pants Collection With Its 2Way Stretch Fabric and New Silhouettes

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Japanese global apparel retailer, UNIQLO, updates its EZY Ankle Pants lineup that features comfortable, elastic fabric in sleek style and colors that can be worn with ease on any occasion.

In line with UNIQLO’s commitment to continuously innovate its LifeWear pieces, the latest EZY Ankle Pants has a 2-Way stretch fabric that stretches vertically and horizontally for ultimate comfort and fit. It also has a front open design and waist with hidden rubbers, belt loops and drawcords. These pants are updated to a clean and flattering trouser-look that can be styled from day to night along with other key LifeWear pieces.

For Work Wear

Pair your UNIQLO’s EZY Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) with UNIQLO’s EFC Oversized LS Shirt and U Crew Neck SS T-shirt to elevate your style at work. This easy-care pants is made of wool-like material and improved with two-way stitch for a more comfortable fit and trendy modern look.

For Casual Days

Featuring a flared silhouette for a more flattering look, UNIQLO’s EZY Flared Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) can be matched easily with Uniqlo Rayon Long Sleeve Blouse and U Crew Neck Shirt for the casual weekends. The EZY Flared Ankle Pants is wrinkle-resistant for easy care, even after washing.

For After Hours

Wear your EZY Ankle Pants (2Way Stretch) with Packaged Dry Color Crew Neck Shirt, Linen Blended V Neck Cardigan, and Supima Cotton Crew Neck LS Sweater for a cool relaxed fit, in style and comfort for anytime of the day.

The latest lineup of UNIQLO EZY Ankle Pants is available in all UNIQLO stores nationwide at PHP 1490.

For more updates, customers may visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at www.uniqlo.com/ph and follow social media accounts, Facebook (facebook.com/uniqlo.ph), Twitter (twitter.com/uniqloph) and Instagram (Instagram.com/uniqlophofficial).

About UNIQLO LifeWear

Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.

About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing

UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, Helmut Lang, PLST (Plus T), Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam and J Brand. With global sales of approximately 2.2905 trillion yen for the 2019 fiscal year ending August 31, 2019 (US $21.53 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2019 rate of $1 = 106.4 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.

UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world’s most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has more than 2,200 stores in 25 markets including Japan. In alphabetical order, the other markets are Australia, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Netherlands, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, U.K. U.S. and Vietnam. In addition, UNIQLO established a social business in Bangladesh together with the Grameen Bank in 2010, and today there are several Grameen-UNIQLO stores in Dhaka.

With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere. For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.

Rafael’s Tapas Bar and Restaurant at Resorts World Manila

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The Place He Wants to Come Home to for His Dad’s Original Recipes, Leveled up!

Entrepreneur Henjie Carmona launches Rafael’s Tapas Bar and Restaurant at Resorts World Manila to share his father Rafael’s passion for home-cooked dishes, his mother Petronila’s elegant homemaking, and his penchant for art collecting to the upscale hotel-casino complex’s food, wine, and fun loving clientele of high rollers, junkets, and the fancy set. “I want to offer them a place to come home to not only for familiar but original home recipes that have been leveled up for their discriminating tastes,” he said, “but also to cozy up, chill, and unwind after spending hours playing and gaming.”
Although he’s a communication research graduate by degree and initially a banker by profession, Carmona has been in the hotel and restaurant industry for more than two decades now. His group having pioneered the condotel (condominium + hotel) format and the executive breakfast lounge, he wanted to challenge himself further by offering ala carte.

Appetizer such as PINTXOS, Pulpo Kinilaw, Graviax, Ricotta Hummus, Nicol express wings.
Tapa’s like Dinuguan, Entourage, Patatas Bravas, Duck Sisig,, Ribeye Salpicao.
Drinks such as Edsons Vision, Val’s Orgasm, Meg’s Delight, Sheila’s Sexcapade, Deks on the beach,
Rafael’s Smash, Mich’s Freshnesh and Chef’s Fav.

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Rafaels Tapas Bar and Restaurant

Lessons from Father

“Opening Rafael’s isn’t a childhood dream, but everything that went into it has been inspired by my dad who taught me all I need about food and cooking,” Carmona confessed. “First, good food is all about freshness—meaning, nothing stays long in the freezer, nothing canned is used, and everything is made in-house, even the pasta and especially the sauces.” He reminisces how his father never allowed helpers to cook, reserving that privilege and honor for the head of the family, and made sure to prepare their meals himself every weekend despite being swamped by his business all week.
“I’d remember craving for his signature dinuguan (pork blood stew) and lechon (roasted suckling pig) pairing while Matt Monroe wafts in the air,” he recalls, adding that this time it’s not just about taste, but also being Instagrammable. Thus, all Rafael’s dishes are plated with delicate artistry worthy of being photographed and shared (pun intended).

“Second, you never ask your guests if they have eaten already or if they want to eat or not,” Carmona explained. Not only would it put off guests as an excuse for lack of preparation or not having enough food, it would also give an impression that hospitality is not one’s forte, He assured that there’s no compromising quality in the dining experience at Rafael’s, where groups of 10 to 15 can avail of the posh Petronila VIP mezzanine room for a consumable reserve price of P200K which comes with the mandatory Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV that can be hooked up to Resort World shows. “For that, it’s the sky’s the limit from cocktail drinks at P400 per pop to exquisite bottles of Remy Martin Louis XIII and Dalmore 25!”

“Third, food is everybody’s game,” Carmona concluded, “just like my father said everything’s done with food: deals closed, relationships opened, victories celebrated, wrongs amended, and sins forgiven.” Nobody loses with food and the best businesses invest in it.

Thus, Rafael’s is that rare mall space where you not only find the most original tasting dishes but also the most fastidiously interior decorated restaurant where diners eat and drink surrounded by towering Toto Aguilon wire spires, commissioned paintings from artists Tanya Gaisano Lee and Angelo Tabije, John Lloyd Cruz photographs, red and black draped tables, golden trumpet chandeliers, and a golden washroom!

Rafael’s Specialties

“All our dishes are all-time familiar favorites that offer a unique twist in taste and presentation,” Carmona beamed as he introduced Rafael’s house specialties, which have interesting, oftentimes intriguing, names.

For their signature tapas or appetizers, they have their ritzy rendition of chicken skin—Chicken that Crossed the Road (P380) served with chili malt vinegar, pickled carrot, and radish puree, which are extra crunchy along with their classy version of gambas—Miss Gump in Hot Flashes (P720) with black garlic and Chardonnay roasted chilis and lemon.
For dinner, they have First Love (P1150)—spicy soft shelled crab risotto with homemade chorizo and chicken thigh charged with lemon—which is as crispy as they are tasty and Blackened Angus Ribeye (P2900)—prime steak with corn and zucchini succotash and chimichurri sauce—which is the most expensive standalone item on the menu.

Capping every meal or visit, guests ought to make sure they try The Big Bang Theory (P390)—a delicately sweet triple nut, three-layered cake of butter and dark chocolate cake revelation, their version of “Choc Nut”, revealed Chef Jinggoy Fernando—for dessert to complete the Rafael’s experience.
“The concept behind all these is simple,” Henjie Carmona said summing up: “I want Rafael’s to be that kind of place where you always want to come back to every day because it’s home and the food reminds you of family,”

For the full menu, reservations, and more information, please visit @rafaelsrwph
on Instagram and Rafael’s Tapas Bar and Restaurant on Facebook.

HP Inc. Delivers Lightness Rising to the Philippines with New PC Innovation

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HP Inc. introduced two PC innovations, bringing Lightness Rising to help Filipinos unleash their potential for freedom in workstyles and lifestyles. Both CES 2020 Innovation Award honorees, the HP Elite Dragonfly, the world’s lightest compact business convertible 1 , and HP Spectre  x360, the world’s smallest convertible will fuel your passions, offer the freedom to choose how, where, and when you connect, and deepen connections to those that matter.

“While young professionals today want to express their best selves through exclusive, premium, and
immersive experiences, they are challenged by the need to create work-life balance while putting family
first,” said Christian Edmond Reyes, Philippines Managing Director, HP Inc. “HP understands that your
need to do your best for the world while achieving seamless integration between work and life. This is
precisely why we designed the new HP Elite Dragonfly and the HP Spectre x360 to bring sustainable PC
innovation that offers lightness, freedom and flexibility to Filipino workstyles and lifestyles.”
According to IDC, Asia’s workplaces will have five generations working together by 2020 – from Gen Zs
to Millennials and Baby Boomers, each with their different workstyles and preferences. “Computing
devices need to be synced with the specific needs of the Philippine workforce. We take pride in
challenging ourselves to provide users the mobility and flexibility to pursue their passions without
compromising on security and connectivity,” said Reyes.

Lightness in your workstyle and freedom in your lifestyle

HP is lightening workloads through design innovation in the HP Elite Dragonfly. Perfect for the modern
business professional whose demand a light, durable, always connected and secure computing device,
The HP Elite Dragonfly is a sub-1-kilogram ultralight, powerful business convertible 2 that offers up to
24.5-hour battery life 3 to support long hours away from an outlet. Powered by an 8th Gen Intel® Core™    vPro™ processor 4 It features the world’s highest screen-to-body ratio in a 13-inch PC 5 at almost 86 percent and instantly transforms from tablet to PC.

The new HP Spectre x360 boasts an impressive size reduction of 13% from the previous generation, with
an industry-leading 90% screen-to-body ratio. It is powered by a quad-core 10th Gen Intel® Core™
processor with Iris® Plus Graphics. Craftmanship and detail are apparent in the device, which is
available in stunning Nightfall Black with copper luxe accents, featuring a gorgeous gem-cut design that
can only be achieved with aluminum CNC machining. The HP Spectre x360 also comes with an
additional Type-C multiport hub to provide addition connectivity options and an instant privacy screen
that can be activated at a touch of a button.

Lightening the load of the world through sustainability

Sustainability continues to be a growing concern amongst businesses and working professionals in the
Philippines today. As part of its sustainable impact strategy, HP continues to drive a more efficient,
circular, and low-carbon economy to help its customers invent the future through a sustainable portfolio
of products and services. The HP Elite Dragonfly is the world’s first business convertible made with
ocean bound plastic 6 and more than 82% of the mechanical parts made from recycled materials 7 , while the HP Spectre x360 has Energy Star Certification and EPEAT Silver ratings.

Pricing and Availability

 The HP Elite Dragonfly is available now, starting at PHP 81,440
 The HP Spectre x360 is available February 2020, starting at PHP 79,990
For more information, visit your nearest HP Authorized Premier Reseller, contact your HP Account
Manager for the latest HP innovations, or log on to HP.com for more information.

About HP

HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our product and
service portfolio of personal systems, printers and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that
amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com.

Simply use PayMaya, para may #BalikBayad!

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Teen Royalties Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla come back to share
the many rewards you get when you “Don’t Pay Cash. PayMaya!”

Top-rated actors Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla were officially unveiled as the latest brand ambassadors for PayMaya’s “BalikBayad” campaign, which encourages Filipinos to experience the most rewarding mobile wallet app in the country today which gives them cashback and other perks for their cashless transactions via PayMaya.

After more than a year of not being seen together on-screen, “Teen Royalties” Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla reunite for an action-packed project that sees them sharing the many perks and rewards of going cashless through PayMaya’s “BalikBayad” campaign.

Serving as a follow-up to PayMaya’s widely successful “Don’t Pay Cash. PayMaya!” campaign last year which gave birth to a catchy video and jingle set to the tune of the hit ‘90’s Eraserheads song “Ligaya,” the “BalikBayad” campaign sees Kathryn and Daniel in action-packed scenes teaming up to beat a common foe–cash.

Set as a typical ‘90’s action movie complete with guns, goons, and even the penultimate “Pinoy Kontrabida” in the form of Rez Cortez, the campaign video features the two young celebrities using the powers of PayMaya to tackle everyday transactions that are typically paid with cash, such as grocery shopping, paying bills, buying load, and online shopping, among many others.

“We’re very excited to have KathNiel representing the ‘BalikBayad’ campaign, because just as these two big celebrity icons have made a comeback for PayMaya this year, our users can also expect something to come back–in the form of cashback–every time they use PayMaya instead of cash,” said Mark Jason Dee, Head of Growth and Marketing of PayMaya.

“PayMaya is a young and fun brand and we’re definitely lucky to have collaborated with Kathryn and Daniel in this campaign, because they represent the exciting and energetic lifestyles of most of our users,” Dee added.

Filipinos can get in on the most rewarding mobile wallet experience by downloading the PayMaya app on their iOS or Android devices and using the code PAYMAYAKATHNIEL upon signing up to get an instant reward, apart from the many other cashback and discount perks they can get by being a PayMaya user.

In February alone, PayMaya users can get as much as P6,000 in cashback when they participate in the mobile wallet’s various promos for bills payment, buying load, paying for goods and services via QR, online shopping, and sending money, among many others.

PayMaya has also expanded the list of merchants and establishments under its PayMaya Preferred program, which gives additional cashback to users who scan to pay with PayMaya QR on top of the regular cashback that they usually receive. Some of these new partners include Landers Superstore, Mercury Drug, KFC, Robinson’s Department Store, Total Alabang and Valenzuela, and Toys ‘R Us, among many others.

Bringing back time and convenience

But aside from getting monetary rewards in the form of cashback every time they pay, users are also able to make more time and experience greater convenience when they use PayMaya.

With PayMaya’s virtual card, for example, users can instantly gain access to a payment card which they can easily use for online shopping and other digital payments for a faster, more efficient payment experience.

PayMaya also recently introduced the ability to transfer money from users’ PayMaya account to other bank accounts, eliminating the need to wait in line at bank branches in order to make a bank deposit.

“PayMaya users can definitely look forward to even more features and services that will give them more convenient ways to pay as well as awesome rewards in the months to come,” Dee added.

To know more about the BalikBayad campaign and how you can get all of these exciting perks from PayMaya, visit www.paymaya.com/balikbayad or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.