“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.

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.

Kapuso star Bianca Umali visits children affected by Taal Volcano eruption

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Bianca Umali joined child-focused NGO World Vision in Laurel, Batangas last February 7 to visit and help distribute learners’ kits to about 400 school-aged children from Grade 1 to 7. Each kit contains a school bag, school supplies, and art materials to help hundreds of children who temporarily stopped schooling due to the eruption.

As World Vision’s Youth Ambassador for Education, Bianca Umali hoped to inspire the children with a message of hope amidst difficult times brought by Taal Volcano eruption.

As Taal Volcano still indicates signs of volcanic threat to its surrounding communities, World Vision commits to assist affected families, including thousands of children whose schooling have been disrupted for almost a month.

Nine year old Jhylian from the locked-down village of Buso-buso said, “I used to have 10 notebooks but after Taal erupted, most of my school things were destroyed. Now, I only have three notebooks for nine subjects. I’m worried what I will use after I’ve used up all the pages of my three notebooks.”

According to the Department of Education’s (DEPED) report, at least 575,456 students coming from 1,034 schools are affected due to class suspensions.

“Education in emergencies is crucial. A lot of children were not able to spare their bags or notebooks and worse, could not go back to their school because of the damages caused by the eruption. This should not stop them from learning though and that’s where we all come in – to support them in any way possible to keep them in school,” says World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte.

“We are grateful to Bianca for making time to serve with us, despite her hectic schedule. The children and the people of Laurel are certainly encouraged and touched by her,” added Fuerte.

Since 2017, Umali has been an active advocate and generous supporter to various World Vision’s campaigns for the benefit of children. Months ago, Umali offered her voice and influence to promote the “1,000 Girls” campaign and the “Hope Town” experiential booth at the Trinoma Mall in Quezon City.

To date, World Vision has reached 1,845 families with hygiene kits (soaps, undergarments, etc.) and non-food items (mosquito nets, blanket, and plastic mats). 12,000 individuals also received N95 dust masks while at least 4 child-friendly spaces continue to provide psychosocial support to children in evacuation centers.

World Vision continues to appeal for support in providing learners’ kits to the communities affected by Taal’s eruption. Click this link to go to World Vision’s donation page: https://wvph.co/DonateForTaal. You may also call World Vision at (02) 8372-7777 or (0917) 866-4824.

For more updates and information, like and follow World Vision Philippines on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit their official website www.worldvision.org.ph.

 

About World Vision

 

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, their families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by its Christian faith and values, it is dedicated to working with the world’s most vulnerable people. It serves and collaborates with all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

 

 

 

Love month is in the Air : #KwentongJollibee Valentine’s series celebrates perfectly imperfect stories of real love

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Once again the most loved food chain, Jollibee is back with its latest, most anticipated #KwentongJollibee Valentine’s series. With the award-winning digital series delves into how true love conquers all—that beyond the romance, it takes hard work and commitment to make real love last.

“There are a plenty of relationships out there, that are experiencing complication when people set unrealistic expectations about love, believing that it’s always easy and picture-perfect especially in today’s digital age! This 20202, the goal is to highlight that the best love stories are those of couples who understand and value true love, and the hard work and commitment that it takes to make it work,” shared Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer, JFC Philippines Country Business Group Marketing Head and concurrent Jollibee Philippines Marketing Head Francis Flores.

With the #KwentongJollibee Valentine’s series last year, the following episodes— “Anniversary”, “Proposal”, and “Choice” — encouraged fans to keep their faith in love and hit over 50M views on Facebook and YouTube. Jollibee, through its Jollibee Studios branded entertainment initiative, has produced up over 33 Kwentong Jollibee short films, garnered over 350 M views and nearly 700M in reach.

The success of the Kwentong Jollibee series has proved its industry leadership and the well-loved films continues to bag global and international recognition. With 2019 presentation, the fast-food brand brought home the APAC Tambuli Awards’ Gold Tambuli for the total Kwentong Jollibee campaign; three Bronze awards in the Family-Centered Brand category for Kwentong Jollibee Mother’s Day Series, Kwentong Jollibee Biyahe, Kwentong Jollibee Grand Thank You Project, and a Bronze award in the Seasons Celebration category for Kwentong Jollibee High Five (Father’s Day). Since 2016, Kwentong Jollibee has also remained to be a regular in the YouTube Ad Leaderboard’s Top 10 Ads in the Philippines. In 2019, YouTube recognized Kwentong Jollibee: Choice and Schoolboy as its most effective ads for the year.

And now, Jollibee will definitely capture the hearts of their viewers, as they release their #KwentongJollibee Valentine’s Series 2020: “#CoupleGoals”, “Space”, and “Apart” in an exclusive press preview held recently at Estancia Mall – Ortigas Cinemas. As today’s modern times have brought about varied definitions of love, the series theme “True Love Conquers All” aims to bring back the true definition of love.

Directed by Ianco dela Cruz (“Vow”, “Choice”), “#CoupleGoals” tells the story of Matt and Lisa, a happy couple who couldn’t be more perfect for each other, or so their social media photos say. Is their relationship as flawless as it appears?

“Space” follows the story of funnyman Dan, who goes out of his way to show his girlfriend Mae how much he cares but their differences have pushed the couple apart. Directed by Sigrid Bernardo, this episode begs the question: In the age where finding someone new as easy as a swipe, is true love is just as easy to find?

Lovebirds Myles and Ron are the center of the story titled “Apart”, directed by Pepe Diokno. Myles is strong-willed and self-sufficient, and Ron feels like he doesn’t have a place in her world. Does true love prevail or are they better off apart?

Be the first one to see – #KwentongJollibee films on Jollibee Studios (www.youtube.com/user/jollibeedigital1) and on Jollibee’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/JollibeePhilippines) airing first on February 1, 2020!

Nippon Paint recognizes winners of the Asia Young Designer Award (AYDA) Philippines 2019

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Officials of Nippon Paint Philippines led by the company President Mark Webb (center) handed the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) Philippines 2019 winners their cash prizes and trophies in a ceremony at PETA Theter Center in Quezon City on January 23, 2020. The gold award for the architecture category was given to John Carlo De Jesus from the Bulacan State University (BulSU) while the Interior Design category top prize was bagged by Abigail Florence Taghoy of University of San Carlos University (USC) Cebu. Both went home with the P50,000 cash prize.

After the fun filled and painstaking process of creating your designs to entry submission, leading into the judges’ deliberating and critiques, the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) Philippines 2019 recognized the winners during the awards ceremonies held at the PETA Theater Center in Quezon City on January 23, 2020.

The gold award with a cash prize worth of P50,000 for the architecture category was given to John Carlo De Jesus from the Bulacan State University (BulSU) while the silver award with a cash prize of P30,000 was awarded to John Harold Siblag of St. Mary’s University of Bayumbong.

Meanwhile, for the Interior Design category, Abigail Florence Taghoy of University of San Carlos University (USC) in Cebu bagged the gold award and P50, 000 cash prize while the silver award with a P30,000 prize money went to Clarice Limsui of De La Salle -College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).

The gold awardees for AYDA 2019 will go to the Asia Young Designer Summit to compete with the best Architecture and Interior Design students in Asia which will be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in March 2020. The winners will battle for the chance to be included in the Harvard University Graduate School of Design’s Design Discovery Program.

Aside from the major prizes, special awards were also given to other participants during the ceremony. For Architecture, the Best in Color Choice Award went to Christian Adrian Manalo of Batangas State University (BSU). Meanwhile the Best Green Innovation Award was given to John Carlo De Jesus and the People’s Choice Award to Johann Orozco, both from BulSU. Best Mentor in this category was awarded to Ar. Diane Alfonso. Also, Bulacan State University was declared The Best College/University, and The Best Supportive School award for the Architecture category went to the Far Eastern University (FEU).

For the Interior Design category, the Best Color Choice award went to Michael lGarbriel Vazquez of DLS-CSB, while Josette Thai of UP Diliman won the Best Green Innovation Award. The People’s Choice award went to Erika Mari Ordinario of DLS-CSB. The University of San Carlos Cebu was named The Best Collge/University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde which was declared the Most Supportive School Dr. Hermie Ray Oplado from The University of San Carlos was awarded Best Mentor for the Interior Design category.

Nippon Paint Philippines President Mark Webb led the awarding ceremonies along with the distinguished panel of judges. Webb affirmed AYDA 2019 was the perfect opportunity to highlight the best young talents of the country and showcase their brilliance to the international arena. He also thanked the mentors and academic partners who patiently guided, motivated and shared their expertise to the students, and for allowing them to join. He added that Nippon Paintis proud to be part of the initiative in elevating the amazing Filipino skills and talent.

AYDA 2019 is a design competition open to Architecture and Interior Design students. The panel of judges is composed of prominent and well-established industry professionals and was supported by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), Council of Deans and Heads of Architecture Schools in the Philippines (CODHASP), the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID), and the Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE).

Visit www.youngdesigneraward.ph or visit www.nipponpaint.ph for more details and updates.