Fuel exciting journeys this summer with Shell

Leave a comment

Summer is all about experiences that will fuel your energy and recharge you from the daily city grind. It’s all about taking that well-deserved break and escaping reality – even for just a weekend. Summer connotes exciting adventures and exploring new places, but the fun and excitement doesn’t need to start when you hit that beach or that mountain trail. It should actually begin the moment you step in your car and get on that road. Be it with a perfect road trip playlist, an ice-cold drink, or even just peace of mind knowing that your car is in tip-top condition to get you through the drive; that comfort and thrill of excitement knowing you’re on your way begins your summer journey.

 

Pilipinas Shell knows what summer is all about as it ushers in the hottest but most exciting season in the country. Through its various refreshing products, reliable service, and summer customer delight offerings, Pilipinas Shell is surely, the perfect partner on the road.

 

Recharge your summer road trip

 

In a summer-themed drive dubbed “Recharge Your Summer Road Trip,” Shell kicked off their summer offerings by taking the media on a relaxing yet exciting whole-day escapade. Throughout the 44-kilometer drive to the Southern parts of the metro in MINI vehicles powered by Shell V-Power Nitro+, media participants took on different challenges and experienced refreshing fare that featured what every summer traveler needed and looked for during their summer road trips.

 

The adventure started off with a scrumptious and hefty breakfast from Deli2Go’s range of dishes at Shell South Luzon Expressway 1 station. Participants were then divided into teams and, in keeping with Shell’s values and commitment to safety and health, were briefed on safety guidelines on the road and for the days’ activities. Featured, were the media’s exclusive Recharge Challenge Passport, which allowed participants to rack up points for every completed pit stop challenge, and Shell’s Summer Journey Card, an instant-prize card available for all customers when they gas-up and shop at any Shell station, were also distributed to the media.

 

Throughout the day, participants faced challenges that most travelers encountered on the road and were tasked to find the most efficient solution for each. From necessity shopping lists, to finding the perfect restroom for nature’s call, to knowing products and services that can ease your drive, and experiencing refreshing food and drinks to fuel your energy, participants experienced it all and came to understand Shell as the perfect stop and best partner anyone can have with them. Knowing there’s a Shell oasis up ahead puts any traveler’s mind at ease as they traverse the long and dusty roads.

 

“As part of Pilipinas Shell’s efforts in making each journey better for every Filipino, we launched a summer campaign that aims to demonstrate the recharging and exciting drive that Shell can offer especially during the summer season. To launch this campaign, we held this drive to encourage motorists to always be prepared on the road by fueling up with quality products and visiting a one-stop-shop that has everything they need for the journey ahead,” said Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Retail, Anthony Lawrence Yam.

 

Fuel your summer excitement with Shell

 

To make summer road trips better for its customers, Pilipinas Shell has a lot more in store for Filipino motorists throughout the season. Apart from its quality products and services, customers can also enjoy delicious snacks and refreshing beverages from Shell Select & Deli2Go, as well as earn points by using their SM Advantage cards for every purchase at Shell. To fully make the most out of every visit, customers will be issued their own Shell Summer Journey Cards which they can use to collect stamps upon each purchase to win exciting prizes from Shell, such as refreshing drinks or a chance to win a trip to a summer destination.

 

By providing quality fuel products and services to motorists around the world, Shell gained its foothold as a global leader in power and energy that pioneers next generation technology in developing new energy sources for a reliable energy mix, producing smarter products, as well as promoting its smarter use, building smarter infrastructure and providing energy efficient engineering solutions that ultimately promote clean & efficient transport, sustainable mobility, energy efficiency and a new energy future to address the energy challenge.

‘Groufie’ era begins with the new OPPO F3 Plus

Leave a comment

Selfies will never be the same now with the whole gang in the picture!

Mobile technology brand OPPO just launched its flagship dual selfie camera phone, the F3 Plus—the first-ever smartphone with a wide-angle dual front camera to easily accommodate ‘groufies’ in a single shot. The new phone will be out in Philippine stores as well as in India, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia beginning April 1.

“Since OPPO started the Selfie Revolution in the Philippines with the F1 Series, we’ve gone through incredible growth especially when we became the country’s second bestselling smartphone in 2016,” OPPO Philippines Brand Marketing Manager Stephen Cheng said. “We are very excited to see the F3 Plus start a new trend in groufies and reinforce our position as the Selfie Expert.”

“The F3 Plus was developed for both selfie lovers and photography buffs who want a smartphone that lets them take stunning shots wherever they are, no matter the time of day. Our newest camera phone packs state-of-the-art hardware and software in a sleek body to deliver outstanding performance and style, perfect for the urban lifestyle,” Cheng added.

Effortless from selfie to groufie

Set to be the ultimate Selfie Expert, the F3 Plus builds upon the technology of the earlier OPPO F1s to deliver outstanding selfie photography. The new smartphone sports a similar 16-megapixel (MP) selfie camera with a 1/3-inch sensor for clear image results even in low light, as well as an f/2.0 aperture for depth-of-field aesthetic.

The difference lies in the additional secondary camera. This 8MP groufie-camera has a wide 120-degree angle—105 percent larger than the regular 80-degree lens field of view— which allows more people to fit inside the frame. The wide-angle shot is also complemented by a 6P lens to minimize distortion.

Ease of use has been carefully designed into the front camera’s functionality to reflect OPPO’s “user-oriented” philosophy. The built-in Smart Facial Recognition, for instance, notifies users to switch to “Groufie” mode when more than three people are detected. This makes the switch from selfie to groufie effortless while keeping image quality stable.

The new smartphone still comes with the brand’s pioneering image editing software, Beautify 4.0, which offers a range of beautification modes for a flawless look in every selfies and groufies.

17668644_120300002857219928_1025618725_o

Built for professional photography

Significant improvements have also been made for the rear-facing camera. Co-developed by Sony, the 16MP back camera is now powered by a customized 1/2.8-inch IMX398 sensor for fast focusing speed, outstanding noise reduction, and advanced low-light performance—ideal for serious photography.

The sensor has been developed using dual-phase autofocus (DUAL PDAF) technology to double the pixel array area, which is composed of photodiodes that determine the camera’s point of focus. This increases focusing speeds by 40 percent even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Together with a large f/1.7 aperture, the sensor enables the rear camera to capture clear and breathtaking photos.

Flawless inside and out

The F3 Plus is engineered with hardware designed to support its powerful front and rear cameras. The phone’s octa-core processor is backed by a 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM to ensure speed, while OPPO’s ColorOS 3.0 optimizes performance to lower energy consumption.

A built-in 4000mAh battery provides more than 284 hours of standby time for whole-day use. OPPO’s proprietary and industry-leading rapid VOOC Charging Solution also cuts charging duration by four times compared with standard units; even five minutes on the plug is enough for a continuous two-hour call.

Dual SIM users will be glad to know that the F3 Plus includes a double-slot card tray for holding two Nano 4GSIM cards. The second slot can be used for a Micro SD card to expand storage up to 256GB.

Lightning-Fast Touch Access also unlocks the phone in just 0.2 seconds—the fastest in the market. The same scanning technology allows users to assign fingerprints to quickly launch phone numbers and apps. An Avast-based virus scanner further adds protection to keep phone data secure.

Exquisite craftsmanship for an upscale look

At the core of every OPPO phone is the brand’s belief in “design excellence.” Casing the F3 Plus is a sleek metal unibody that gives the phone an elegant form either in luxurious Black or opulent Gold. The back shell also comes with an innovative ultra-fine six-string antenna to exude a more upscale appearance. But beyond aesthetics, the body is sculpted for proper hand grip so users can take selfies with comfort.

To match the polished look is the phone’s durability. The six-inch display screen is made of 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 5 to resist damage. Pre-applied protective coating further makes the screen scratch-proof.

The F3 Plus in Gold is coming to the Philippines this April 1 with the suggested retail price of P23,990. Pre-orders, along with a free Bluetooth headset and a selfie stick, will be available in all OPPO concept stores and selected dealer stores nationwide as well as at the brand’s official online shop in Lazada from March 24 to 31.

Shoppers can get OPPO’s latest Selfie Expert via Home Credit through a nine-month installment plan at zero percent interest. They can also watch out for Globe’s exclusive offer for OPPO F3 Plus, with date and details to be announced soon.

About OPPO

For the last 10 years, OPPO has been focusing on manufacturing camera phones, while innovating mobile photography technology breakthroughs. OPPO started the era of selfie beautification, and was the first brand to launch smartphones with 5MP and 16MP front cameras. OPPO was also the first brand to introduce the motorized rotating camera, the Ultra HD feature and the 5x Dual Camera Zoom technology. OPPO’s Selfie Expert F series launched in 2016 drove a selfie trend in the smartphone industry.

In 2016, OPPO was ranked as the number 4 smartphone brand globally, according to IDC. And today, OPPO provides excellent smartphone photography experience to over 100 million young people around the world. For more information, please visit http://www.oppo.com/ph/index.html.

Citi now aims to be leading digital bank in the Philippines

Leave a comment

The country’s leading foreign bank continues its aggressive bid to be the number one digital bank in the country with the launch of new digital partnerships, products and services.

Citi Philippines latest digital innovation comes in the form of online credit card application and approval program, a first in the Philippines.

David Stoughton, Director for Credit Payment Products, briefed members of the media this morning, and said their clients can expect to get credit approval online, after they complete the simplified application form and submit digitized copies of required documents.

“We were one of the first banks to launch an online presence and also one of the pioneers in attracting customers through our website,” recalled Stoughton. “At that time, we were only capturing the information online when they apply, but the processing still takes place offline including the credit review. With this latest service, we are excited to break new ground for the industry and deliver another innovation for the Filipino consumer.”

Apply online and get a digitized reward too!

With the digitized application and approval process, a client will know in minutes if he or she is qualified for a Citi credit card. “This is a game changer as we continue to look at our products and services, and accelerate digitization to deliver remarkable client experiences,” said Stoughton.

Citi also digitized its rewards – clients who prefer to submit applications through promotion booths in shopping centers or travel exhibits because of attractive turn-in gifts will be pleased to discover they won’t be missing out just because they will do it online.

From now until April 30, complete an application online and receive an electronic voucher you can redeem for an Auntie Anne’s pretzel and iced tea. Upon approval, clients who are getting their first Citi credit card and make a purchase of P20,000 or more within 60 days are also eligible to get a Fitbit Charge 2 fitness wristband.

Groundbreaking partnerships with leading digital retailers

Citi also recently unveiled another strategic digital partnership, this time with Amazon. The Philippines will come next after Thailand where credit card holders can now use their Rewards Points to pay for purchases at Amazon.com.

On average, Citi announced a new digital innovation or partnership fortnightly in the last 12 months across Asia. During 2016, Citi announced strategic partnerships in leading digital ecosystems across the region. Some of these included Alipay and WeChat in China and Line in Thailand and Taiwan. The bank also formed digital credit card partnerships with the likes of Airbnb and Uber in various countries. The bank’s social media followers in Asia grew from 3million to over 10million during 2016.

In the Philippines, its regional digital partners include: Booky, an offline restaurant finder; Zennya, the world’s first spa on-demand app; Lazada, the leading online shopping mall in the country; and Grab, Southeast Asia’s leading ride-hailing platform, to name a few.

In the country, Citi’s ongoing promotions with leading travel sites including Asiatravel (grab 12% off on hotel bookings until June 30, 2017); Agoda (get 10% off on hotel accommodations year-long); Expedia (enjoy 8% off until October 2017); and Airbnb (on first stay, get P1,800 off until November 15, 2017).

Beyond travel, expect to also enjoy exclusive discounts when shopping online with Citi credit cards.

• 15% off at POBox.ph (until March 31, 2017) and Shipping Cart (for air and shipping fees until July 31)
• 12% off at Zalora year long
• 10% off at Galleon.ph until July 31
• Island Rose extends 10% off year long

Banking on a Digital Future

“Our Consumer Bank business in Asia draws some 20 million visits to our online properties every month and between 90 to 95% of all transactions already happens outside a branch,” Stoughton. He added that regional figures show one out of every four new credit card accounts acquired comes from digital sources and over 50% of clients are actively using digital banking channels, up from 30% three years ago.

Over the past five years, traffic in Citi branches across Asia has declined 50% as digital transactions grew over 100%. While digital banking is not completely replacing the branch experience, the nature of branch interactions is changing, and Citi’s strategy is now aimed at a combination of bricks and clicks.

“In our drive to digital, we have also become the credit card brand that online and mobile retailers prefer. This initiative presents a bright outlook in a country which greatly embraces the growth of online shopping and lifestyle,” added Stoughton.

Over the last year, Citi launched the newly-refreshed Citi Mobile App in Asia featuring easy-to-use functionality and interfaces such as Snapshot and Touch ID which has seen over 2m million downloads to-date. The bank also was the first to launch Voice Biometrics across the region which has since received more than 700,000 sign-ups from customers with over 1m clients consenting.

“We are focused on becoming the world’s leading digital bank, and we will continue to leverage on our global network for strategic partnerships even as we develop and deliver digital products and services,” said Stoughton.

Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2017 – Enjoy the Summer Skies with Amazing Sights and Sounds

Leave a comment

LUBAO, PAMPANGA – Summer in the Philippines last 2016 heated up with colors and wonders as the biggest hot air balloon festival in Southeast Asia was set to light up the skies.

 

The Lubao International Balloon Festival 2016 featured amazing balloon flights from international participants, as well as aerial exhibitions and other exciting activities like land exhibits, car shows and fireworks display. Families and barkadas got to enjoy dynamic music from Ely Buendia, Bamboo, True Faith, Sabado Boys and Mitoy and D’Draybers.

 

Indeed, it was a successful and well-attended event which paved the way for another exciting hot air balloon festival that everyone can surely look forward to. Happening on April 6-9, 2017 at Pradera Verde, Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga, the most awaited event will be back bigger, bolder, and better!

 

Bigger. More than thirty (30) international balloons will decorate the skies of Pampanga with magnificent designs and beautiful colors. It will surely be a one of a kind spectacle for the viewing pleasure of over 100,000 expected local and foreign guests.

 

Bolder. The festival will not only showcase the majestic display of hot air balloons during the day, but also provide the spectators with the chance to marvel at their grandeur against the night sky during the Night Glow. Furthermore, amazing fireworks display will cap off the day and end it on a high note.

 

Better. Great views are best enjoyed with great music. A first for the event, an international music festival will be held on the last day featuring Alex Aiono and Redfoo and the Party Rock Crew. Local artists will also perform like SpongeCola, Parokya ni Edgar, Gloc-9, Yeng Constantino and Bamboo.

 

It’s going to be a wonderful experience, so bring your friends and families over to enjoy the summer with amazing sights and sounds at the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2017!

 

Buy your tickets now at SM Tickets (https://www.smtickets.com) and at TicketWorld Online (https://www.ticketworld.com.ph). Ticket price is at Php300 for General Admission valid for one day only from April 6-9. A special Gold Ticket worth Php1,500 is available for April 9 which provides a closer view during our International Music Festival.

 

The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2017 is organized by Lubao International Balloon Festival, Inc. (LIBF) together with Forthinker, Inc., in cooperation with the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTO) and with support from Provincial Government of Pampanga.

 

For more information and inquiries, you may contact Forthinker, Inc. from Mondays to Fridays, 9am to 6pm via landline +632 942 0768, mobile 09178210728 or email – lubaoibf@gmail.com.

Robinsons Supermarket invites everyone to “Explore Wellness” to reach a healthy lifestyle destination

Leave a comment

Those who want to make healthy living their goal this year are in for an adventure as Robinsons Supermarket takes them on an exciting journey, with health and wellness as the ultimate destination.

IMG_8700

The country’s largest healthy retail supermarket chain has launched this year’s “Route to Wellness” campaign by inviting everyone to fasten their seatbelts for a fun-filled wellness journey with “Explore Wellness”, the first of five promo events to look forward to.

At the Eastwood Mall Open Park, media and customers were invited to the “Explore Wellness” event where they sampled products and tried different activities from Unilever, Kojie-San, Selecta, and CDO Premium; and availed of discounted products and freebies from P&G, Coca-Cola, and Belo.

rds2

Customers can get a 3-style bag for free for a minimum single receipt of Php3,000, inclusive of PHP 500.00 worth of participating products from Unilever, Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Kojie-San, Belo, Nestle, Selecta, CDO Foodsphere, Splash Corporation, Unilab and Cosmetique Asia. The 3-style bag can be used as shoulder bag, backpack and cross bag. It is also available in 5 colors: pink, gray, purple, army green and dark gray. Promo period is from March 1 to April 30, 2017.

The Route to Wellness year-long campaign is a testament to Robinsons Supermarket’s continuous commitment to strengthening its “We Love Wellness” advocacy that enables it to provide healthier food options and alternatives to Filipino families.

IMG_8702

Get ready to live a healthy lifestyle. Avail of a Wellness passport today and take-off on an ultimate journey to health and wellness by taking part in Robinsons Supermarket’s exciting and rewarding promos.

Stay updated on the various activities that Robinsons Supermarket has in store and learn more about its “Route to Wellness” campaign by liking it on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RobinsonsSupermarketOfficial or visiting its official website at www.robinsons-supermarket.com.ph.

 

Honda Philippines, inc. dares all riders to unlock the ultimate ride, introducing the all new click150i at honda scooter fest

Leave a comment

Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) celebrates the best of Honda Gen-S in the biggest gathering of scooter riders. Now on its second year, the Honda Scooter Fest is amplifying the joy of riding through a series of activities that give riders the opportunity to experience the excellence and innovation of Honda.

HPI is committed to elevating the performance of all riders by creating new technologies that push the boundaries of human imagination. Thus, it launched the Honda Scooter Fest as its annual event for scooter riders who are passionate about style, safety, and performance that the Gen-S brand embodies.

Today’s festivities kick off at the Solaire Resort and Casino. Rooted in its theme “Unlock the Ultimate Ride,” this year’s Honda Scooter Fest features special activities such as Honda Gen-S motorcade and Spot My Ride Honda Scooter Accessorizing Contest, among others. But the most exciting revelation today is the launch of the ultimate Gen-S Scooter, the All-New Honda Click150i. It is Honda’s flagship scooter that has the highest displacement among the existing Gen-S Scooter models: the Click125i, the all-new BeAT, and the Zoomer-X.

The All-New Honda Click150i is the biggest addition to the scooter line-up of Honda, from 110cc to 125cc, and now a trailblazing 150cc displacement. The All-New Click150i sports outstanding features and a powerful, liquid-cooled 150cc SOHC engine. It features stylish and exclusive design with premium matte finish and distinctive sporty stripes.

At the core of the All-New Honda Click150i is the advanced Honda Smart Technology that promises safety and fuel efficiency. Its 150cc engine is infused with Enhanced Smart Power (eSP) that produces lower emission, and an ACG starter that delivers smooth engine performance. Activating its Idling Stop System (ISS) will give riders far and better mileage, while its Combined Braking System will provide proper tension to the scooter’s front and rear brakes for optimal braking. It also has an ample space for storing luggage and full-face helmet with its 18 liter U-Box compartment. Its dual-keen headlight, stylish taillight, tubeless tires, and digital meter panel add to its dynamic appeal and kingly stature.

The All-New Click150i also features an advanced Answer Back System that allows the rider to find this scooter with ease. By simply pressing the button of the key remote, the scooter will respond in either one of three different tones, and blink with a light signal.

Ultimately, the crowning glory of the All-New Honda Click150i is its overall build that exhibits sophisticated design and features, and gives the rider confidence to conquer the road.

HPI President Mr. Daiki Mihara is optimistic about the introduction of the All-New Honda Click150i to the young generation of riders, citing HPI’s passion for excellence and solid commitment to share the joy of riding to all Gen-S riders. Inspired by creativity, style and innovation, “we at Honda are embracing the evolution that moves us forward to the future. The Gen-S riders are always at the helm of all things new. We share their interest and thirst for ingenuity that shapes our world today and tomorrow.”

President Mihara is confident that the addition of the All-New Honda Click150i to the Gen-S line-up will increase the market leadership of HPI in the AT and Sports Motorcycle categories.

The All-New Honda Click150i is available in Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic, Matte Jasper Brown Metallic, and Matte Ion Blue Metallic. It is now available in all Honda 3S Shops nationwide with a SRP of P89,900.

For more details, visit www.hondaph.com today or visit a Honda dealer near you.

Grand launching of Fe Del Mundo Hospital

Leave a comment

Fe Del Mundo Medical Center (FDMMC), a pioneer in child health care in the Philippines, launched its newly renovated buildings and facilities to become a fully-upgraded private-general hospital catering to communities in Quezon City.

The launch held last February 17, 2017, marked the hospital’s full leap from being known as a child and maternal hospital to a holistic medical center offering medical services to patients of all ages, from pre-work to post-care.

Under the new management of Mount Grace Hospitals, FDMMC has upgraded facilities in allergology-immunology, hemodialysis, physical rehabilitation, endoscopy, hematology-oncology, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, with various subspecialties in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, anesthesia and pain management, and comprehensive diagnostic services.

“We are continuously improving and expanding our services to achieve our goal of giving our patients quality and affordable medical services. Fe Del Mundo Medical Center has now grown into a bigger and better hospital capable of catering to the growing needs of our patients,” Marivic T. Lualhati, FDMMC General Manager, said.

The hospital was founded by Dr. Fe Del Mundo, a distinguished Filipino scientist and pediatrician who received various awards including the Elizabeth Blackwell Award as a “Woman Doctor of World Renown” and the 15th International Congress of Pediatrics Award as the “Most Outstanding Pediatrician and Humanitarian” in 1977.

Dr. Fe Del Mundo established FDMMC in 1957, first as a Children’s Memorial Hospital which had a 107-bed capacity and a wide-array of services mainly for pediatric patients. It later became known as Fe Del Mundo Medical Center in honor of Dr. Fe Del Mundo’s works and achievements.

Since the late 2013, when Fe Del Mundo Medical Center became a member of Mount Grace Hospitals, a dynamic and growing healthcare management group, FDMMC has transformed into a bigger and better general hospital continuously upholding its legacy of excellence in providing its patients with a warm caring experience.

Fe Del Mundo Medical Center is located at 11 Banawe Street, Q.C. You may contact (02) 712 0845 to 50 or check the website www.fedelmundo.com.ph for more information.

Hop Inn Thai Hotel here in the Philippines

Leave a comment

Traveling with class used to be only for the privileged ones, but not until Thailand-based Hop Inn Hotel was officially launched in the Philippines through its pioneering outlet along Ermita, Manila that offers high quality accommodation for both the business and leisure markets on a tight budget.
According to The Erawan Group PLC President, Ms Kamonwan Wipulakorn, this island nation serves as their first market abroad since they ventured into the economy category, in addition to the premium global hospitality names they have been building and operating over the last three decades.

“The country has high potential for tourism in the long term,” she said. “We believe that the Philippines will offer the fastest and highest economic growth in the Asean region and through our analysis and market research on the ground, we see very good opportunities to expand in the Philippines.”

On December 1, 2016, Hop Inn Ermita opened its door for local and foreign tourists to experience and enjoy first-hand what the Thai expertise and world-renowned Filipino hospitality are about. While it falls under the economy travel class, the hotel is designed to offer quality and convenient stays––thanks to the company’s 35 years of vast experience in developing international five-star hotels, such as the Grand Hyatt and JW Marriott, among others.

“So travelers can expect a decent accommodation here at affordable prices,” the top executive noted. Unlike other similar facilities out there, she added that this new budget hotel located at the heart of the country’s capital exceeds the guests’ expectations.
Upon entry to this mid-rise property, visitors could already feel the warmth of this place with the vibrant colors of the lobby. This is complemented by the courteous and accommodating staff, who are well-trained and on-hand to assist them so as to make their stay well worth their money.
Hop Inn Ermita has 168 rooms––all spacious and well-appointed. Each is equipped with fundamental amenities to ensure a good night’s sleep after a tiring business or leisure trip, and in preparation for the next day’s meetings or city exploration.

“We offer a very basic requirement. Our brand essence is for our rooms to be clean, convenient, comfortable, and safe,” Wipulakorn cited. “We make sure that all of these are consistent to all our clients here and in our upcoming branches in the near future.”

The leading hotel operator in Southeast Asia has allocated around 10 billion baht, or about P12 billion, for its five-year investment plan aimed at further growing its Hop Inn network in the region.

“Thirty percent of that will be for the Philippines,” the Group’s president said of their P3.6 billion capital expenditure to build around 20 three-star hotels nationwide by 2020.

As the leading investor in the hospitality sector in Thailand, The Erawan Group currently operates 41 hotels there, with a total inventory of 6,000-rooms.

“Next year, it’s going to be 50 hotels, including two in the Philippines,” Wipulakorn bared,
referring to the P200 million-worth Ermita property and the 190-room Makati branch, the latter now under construction in preparation for opening in September 2017.

Others in the pipeline include the ones building up in Aseana in Pasay City and Alabang in Muntinlupa––both scheduled for inaugural in the first quarter of 2018. The Group is also looking at Quezon City, Chinatown, and Cubao in Metro Manila, as well as Cebu and Davao in the Visayas and Mindanao regions as potential sites for its Hop Inn brand.
Beyond giving a boost to the national economy and local hospitality industry, The Erawan’s expansion program is expected to create more direct and indirect employment opportunities for Filipinos.

“We have created jobs with our ongoing construction already. We will set up an operation team in the next few months and the plan is to hire local staff as many as possible as they would understand customers’ requirement and respond well to market,” Wipulakorn said.

Impressed by the positive turnout of the guests, following the official opening of the flagship Hop Inn outlet in Manila, the Group has already identified their captive market in the Philippines.

“In Thailand, 85 percent of our guests are international. But we have a very good domestic market as well. So about 15 percent would go to domestic. But I think over here will be more domestic, maybe 85 percent. So we expect more business travellers here more than leisure guests,” she pointed out.
Bullish on their first venture overseas, Wipulakorn revealed that they intend to double their target number of hotels in the next 10 years.

“We also look at maybe investments into the midscale or four-star category in the Philippines,” she stressed. “I hope that we bring a good quality product for the Philippine market and that we get a good response. We also want to be part of the community here.”

For more information about Hop Inn Hotel, visit www.hopinnhotel.com and follow their social
media pages at www.facebook.com/hopinnhotelph and hopinnhotelph on Twitter and Instagram.

Kickstart your journey to active, healthy living at Vermosa Active Revolution

Leave a comment

Leading a healthy and active lifestyle is one of the keys to enjoying a full life, and at Vermosa, this starts at home. Developed by Ayala Land, Inc., this 700-hectare master-planned, mixed-use estate in Cavite offers a modern suburban community where daily life becomes more dynamic for health enthusiasts.

Putting Vermosa on the map as the premier sports and active lifestyle destination in the south is Vermosa Active Revolution, an early, high-octane Christmas treat held recently at the estate. The two-day event was headlined by Drop and Roll, a jaw-dropping exhibition show led by world-renowned stunt-bike hotshot Danny MacAskill. Joining him were fellow pro riders Duncan Shaw, Fabio Wibmer, and Ali C., who all gave local riders and speed enthusiasts a truly unforgettable spectacle on their first visit to the Philippines as part of their Asian world tour.

Revolutionizing active living

Vermosa Active Revolution also took guests on a thrilling ride that roused their senses, most especially at the Vermosa Active Revolution’s Kinetic, Inspire, and Refresh Zones.

Aside from the Drop and Roll exhibition performances, the Kinetic Zone featured cycling clinics and bike rentals at the Vermosa Bike Skills Park, while the motocross track hosted an MX Race that showcased various local riding talents. The Ninja Academy also performed a live parkour exhibition show and set up an obstacle trials course, while a poi LED demonstration by Planet Zips capped-off the event through a visual feast.

The Inspire Zone housed one of the South’s biggest sports and lifestyle expos, where attendees geared-up to jumpstart their active and healthy lifestyles, through great deals and finds from the country’s hottest retail brands such as 2XU, 8A Apparel, Bambike Revolution Cycles, Cycle Ministry, Gran Trail Cycles, Green Planet, JB Sports, MTProBikes, Nutrition Ringside, Ranking Helmets, Sandugo, V12 Apparel, Vansydical, Speedo, and many more.

The Refresh Zone provided a menu of good eats to energize guests while sound beats from guest acoustic performers and DJs accompanied event-goers and kept the active atmosphere going to revitalize one’s mind, body, and soul. Indeed, the future economic hub of the South offers a holistic approach to healthy and active living, packaged as a destination that offers premier services and brings one-of-a-kind events closer to Filipinos.

“Vermosa stands as an accessible premier destination for new-age sports, perfect for people who are passionate about healthy and active living,” said Jay Teodoro, Ayala Land Senior Division Manager and Estate Head of Vermosa. “By hosting world class events such as Vermosa Active Revolution, the estate furthers its thrust of not only providing the best training facilities and services, but of bringing in quality, internationally-renowned talent to promote active and healthy lifestyles.”

#Jointheactiverevolution and fuel your passion for a healthy and active lifestyle! For more updates and information on Vermosa’s exciting events, activities, and offerings, visit the official Facebook page, @Vermosaph or www.vermosa.ph.

Vermosa is an estate by Ayala Land, the Philippines’ leading developer of sustainable estates offering a diverse mix of quality residential and commercial developments that support local economic growth.

For more information on Vermosa’s upcoming activities and offerings, visit its official Facebook page, @Vermosaph or log on to www.vermosa.ph

St. John Bosco Parish students rise to the challenge with Caltex™ Havoline® and ONE Championship™

Leave a comment

The youth of the St. John Bosco Parish got a once in a lifetime chance to train with ONE Championship athletes through a community initiative spearheaded by Caltex Havoline.

Caltex Havoline brand ambassador Mark Striegl along with ONE Championship title holders Brandon Vera and Eduard Folayang trained with the children of the parish with the aim to empower them through physical fitness activities and inspire them to face life’s toughest challenges with endurance and genuine strength.

“In Chevron, we value people. The passion that drives us towards excellence is the same passion that inspires us to commit to giving the best to our partners, customers, and communities. The St. John Bosco Parish youth are particularly close to our hearts. For many years, we have helped them make a sustainable living through livelihood projects such as the Pugad Pandesal: Manna From Heaven, the Coffee & Saints Café, and the Caltex Mobile Mechanics. Just as Caltex Havoline puts the fight back in your engine, we want to empower the youth to fight for their dreams,” said Joseph N Bronfman, Area Business Manager, Philippines & Vietnam, Chevron Philippines Inc.

Though the athletes are in the thick of training for the upcoming ONE: Age of Domination on December 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena, they took time off to bond with the kids of St. John Bosco Parish and teach them a few of their moves in the cage.

As Striegl introduced the exercises, he also encouraged the youth to fight hard for their dreams.

“These kids have faced very difficult situations at a young age. Not having access to education is one of the most challenging obstacles, but they continually overcome it. I readily agreed to join this activity because I wanted to help empower them,” said Striegl.

Don Bosco PUGAD (Parish Urchins Gathered at Don Bosco) Center serves the underprivileged youth who are incapable of supporting their own education. Chevron and the parish are long-time partners, previously organizing livelihood projects and training programs together to equip them in making a sustainable living.

After the training exercises, the three fighters spent some time designing tambourines with the youth of PUGAD Center, which will be auctioned at ONE: Age of Domination event on December 2, 2016. Proceeds of which will be given to the center.

Caltex Havoline is ONE Championship’s Southeast Asia regional partner for Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies, with subsidiaries that conduct business worldwide. The company is involved in virtually every facet of the energy industry. Chevron explores for, produces and transports crude oil and natural gas; refines, markets and distributes transportation fuels and lubricants; manufactures and sells petrochemical products; generates power and produces geothermal energy; provides energy efficiency solutions; and develops the energy resources of the future, including biofuels. Chevron is based in San Ramon, California. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

About Chevron Philippines, Inc.

Chevron Philippines, Inc. has been in the Philippines for over 90 years, offering high quality products and services. To date we have more than 700 Caltex stations, and sells a range of petroleum products, including Caltex with Techron® gasoline and Caltex Diesel with Techron®D, kerosene and jet fuel. Chevron has 18 facilities in the Philippines, including major terminals, depots and sales offices. Our import terminal in San Pascual, Batangas, forms the hub of our transportation and supply operations in the Philippines. Chevron also provides jet fuel for airlines at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Chevron also markets Delo® and Havoline® lubricants, coolants and other lubricating oils and greases through distributors to consumer, commercial and industrial customers. More information on Chevron Philippines, Inc. is available at www.caltex.com/ph.

About Havoline®

Since 1904, Havoline motor oils have provided outstanding performance. In 1946, Havoline introduced its “New and improved Havoline Motor Oil,” which for the first time featured additives that inhibited corrosion, provided detergent and dispersive action, reduced piston ring wear at both low and high temperatures, and protected against engine rust. Today’s Havoline lives up to its heritage with its latest technology: Havoline with Deposit Shield® Technology, an advanced formulation that protects your engine from harmful deposits to deliver optimum performance. Havoline suite of products include passenger car engine oils, motorcycle oils and other ancillary products such as coolants, automatic transmission and brake fluids providing total engine protection.

About ONE Championship™

ONE Championship is the largest sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia featuring the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship is broadcast to over 1 billion viewers across 118+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN, TV5, Physique TV, MYTV, HTV, Esporte Interativo and more.