SM Prime, UPLB team up for sustainability scholarship

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SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has partnered with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to further promote the country’s pursuit of sustainable development.

Through a scholarship grant, SM Prime aims to assist select students pursue undergraduate degrees in Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (BSHE) and Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) – courses geared towards sustainability.

The scholarship will be awarded to students from low-income households in Pasay City intended to provide better employment prospects and help reduce poverty and inequality, which are major obstacles to sustainable development.

Members of the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) and SM Prime Holdings Inc ink partnership to create scholarships geared towards sustainable development. Present during the signing are (From left) UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources Dean Marlo Mendoza, UPLB College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Ricardo Sandalo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho Jr., and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Janette Malata-Silva.

Collaboration for innovation and sustainability
In an interview, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr. shared his optimism about the partnership, citing the impact of education, especially sustainability-related fields of studies, in social and economic mobility.

“The scholarship will enable more students to pursue their studies in areas related to sustainability such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in education in these areas, we are preparing a new generation of leaders who will have the knowledge and skills to address the complex environmental and social challenges facing our world today,” Dr. Camacho said.

“It will encourage research and development in areas related to sustainability. By providing support for students to pursue advanced studies, we are creating a pipeline of future researchers and innovators who can develop solutions to pressing environmental and social problems,” he added.

Aside from enabling students to pursue their education without financial burden, the UPLB chancellor believes that the scholarship can produce competent leaders capable of solving complex environmental and social challenges, and create a pipeline of innovative researchers.

He further stressed how fostering collaborations and innovation in sustainability between the academic
community and the private sector can lead to new environmentally and socially responsible products, technologies, and services that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo signed the memorandum of agreement alongside UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho Jr. The scholarship formed under the partnership continues SM Prime’s pursuit of sustainable development.

Ripples of social good
SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo shared that the partnership between SM Prime and UPLB is a testament to the shared commitment of both institutions towards promoting sustainability and creating a better future for the next generation.

By supporting the education of would-be scholars, SM Prime hopes to create ripples of social good within families and communities, ultimately contributing to the development of a more sustainable and equitable society.

“Improving the well-being of its partner communities and investing in people’s growth have long been among SM Prime’s sustainability pillars woven at the core of its business strategies and operations. As such, SM Prime deems it important to create programs that would provide access to quality education for all, and in the long term, create a pool of proactive human resources who can responsibly carry out and balance the economic, social and environmental aspects of a society’s sustainable development aspirations,” Castillo said.

“SM Prime believes UPLB would be the best partner to support its sustainability initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment while honing new Iskolars ng Bayan leaders committed to knowledge creation and public service,” she also said.

The SM Prime Sustainability Scholarship is open to students from Pasay City, under UPLB’s BSHE and BSF programs with an annual gross family income of not more than PhP150,000.00

For more information, interested applicants may contact the UPLB OSG +63 49 536 3209 or email at osg.uplb@up.edu.ph..

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Medical care brought closer to low-income families in Cagayan

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While access to quality healthcare continues to be hampered by challenges, medical missions have become an increasingly vital source of support for low-income communities. Through time, they have gone beyond providing medical care and have taken up a new role: transforming the lives of individuals and communities.
The SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) recognizes just this, so it has made its mission to travel from Luzon to Mindanao to provide free medical care and services to thousands of patients from various hard-pressed communities.
Just recently, the medical mission team headed to the cities of Tuguegarao and Cauayan in Northern Luzon and provided services to thousands of low-income families. Two of them are Roland Bariuan and Angeline Cacanindin.
Strength to do more

Roland Bariuan takes home free medicines after his medical check-up.
Roland has been a tricycle driver in Tuguegarao City since 1994. But, two years ago, he suddenly felt weak and had to spend money on medical consultations and examinations.
“Napansin ko na kahit malakas ako kumain, namamayat ako at nanghihina. Nalaman ko na may diabetes na po ako. Pero hindi pwedeng pabayaan ko ang sarili ko. Hindi pwedeng maging tamad ako dahil may sakit ako. Kung tamad po ako mamasada, wala kaming pangaraw-araw at gagastushin pambili ng gamot,” he shared.
Determined to care for his health, he goes to the city health office for his routine checkups. The same drive to boost his health is also what led him to SM group’s medical mission, led by SMFI: “Dahil magastos po magpagamot, kadalasan po akong pumunta sa city health office para sa lahat ng aking checkups. Ngayon, nataon pong nalaman kong mayroon medical mission dito sa SM City Tuguegarao.”
Through the medical mission, he received free consultation, blood tests, x-ray, and medicines–services that would break the bank if he had it done elsewhere. With the assistance extended to him, he had his scheduled checkup without worrying about the finances and even managed to put aside money originally allotted for medicine and laboratory tests.

“Ang kinikita ko sa pamamasada ang ginagamit ko at ng pamilya ko para sa aming pangangailangan. Kaya mahalaga sa akin ang aking kalusugan. Ang magandang pangangatawan ang nagbibigay sa akin ng lakas para mas lalo pang pagsumikapan ang pamamasada,” he said.

“Pero bilang tricycle driver, hindi namin maiiwasang magkasakit dahil usok ang kasabayan namin sa pamamasada. Kaya malaking tulong ang libreng check-up sa ang libreng gamot mula sa SM Foundation. Malaking tulong ito dahil kahit papaano, hindi ko muna iisipin ang pang gamot ko,” he added.

Making quality healthcare attainable

Roland’s fellow resident from Cagayan Valley, Angeline Cacanindin, knows full well the need to maintain a healthy body, for this is her tool to fulfill her duty as a house helper. She also believes that this is what her children can rely on as they strive in school.

However, her youngest daughter has been complaining about a toothache, which was already interfering with her nutrition and attendance in school.

“Butas na po ang mga ngipin niya. Kaya tuwing kumakain po siya, pumapasok ang kanin at nasasaktan siya. Hindi na rin po siya makapag focus sa school dahil sa sakit,” she shared.

“Nito lang po, tumawag po ang teacher niya at sinabing umiiyak po ang anak ko per hindi umiimik. Nung kinausap ko po siya, nalaman kong sobrang sakit na po ng ngipin niya. Umiyak din po ako dahil ramdam ko ‘yung sakit. Hindi ko siya agad madala sa dental clinic dahil nasa trabaho po ako at mahal din po ang magpabunot,” she said.

When she heard about SMFI’s medical mission in SM City Cauayan, she immediately brought her daughter for a checkup. Here, her daughter’s tooth was extracted. She also received free paracetamol, antibiotics, vitamins apt for her child’s age, and dental hygiene tips from volunteer dentists.

“Ang medical mission na ito ay malaking tulong kasi libre po serbisyo pati ang mga gamot. Ngayon po, makakapagsimula muli kaming subaybayan ang kalusugan ng aming anak para maganda po ang kinabukasan niya.” she said.

Through the ongoing medical missions of SMFI, many economically disadvantaged individuals like Roland and Angeline get lifelines–an intervention that provides immediate relief to those in need and a chance to access medical care and resources that are often unavailable or unattainable.

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Choosing to give a voice amidst the silence

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Rosalie Macaspac (left) interprets the contents of the program for her students.

Teaching surpasses the realms of jobs or professions–it encompasses service, vocation, and life mission.
Proving this day and night are millions of Filipino teachers who stand as second mothers to students. One of them is Rosalie Macaspac, an SM scholar alumna who chose to pursue a career in Special Education (SPED).
Life’s work
Choosing to teach, especially pursue SPED, is a path less travelled. Out of over 800,000 public school teachers, only about 4,000 are in SPED, and Rosalie is one of the few who took the path. For 21 years now, the SM scholar alumna has dedicated her life to teaching SPED students. She wanted to empower and give special children a voice by advocating the welfare of deaf learners.

With much dedication and determination to have the right skills for her students, she pursued graduate studies in special education and Filipino sign language at the Philippine National University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, respectively.
She currently teaches at the Philippine School for the Deaf in Pasay, the only government-owned institution for the deaf in the country. Here, she spearheaded the numeracy skills training program for deaf learners.
Embedding grit, greatness
Her journey to becoming an educator was not easy. Her parents separated when she was three years old, and her mother became the breadwinner.
“In the early years of my life as a three year old, awareness of how hard life is became a part of my growing up. I grew up with a mindset that whatever happens, I will not abandon my studies. Sensing my determination, my mother earned a living by washing and ironing clothes of our neighbors. I came to realize my mom had to wash and press thousands and thousands of clothes so I could finish my studies. But I did not pity myself. Instead, I kept a strong determination to battle on and promised my mother that she will not grow old and die as a laundry woman,” she said.
The weight on their shoulder became heavier when her mother became bedridden for half a year. Instead of slowing her down, it did the opposite. She continued her studies with much determination. With the help of her uncle, the Missionaries of Charity, and the puto bigas she sold, they could get by.
She finished primary school with good grades, and was a consistent honor student in high school, despite having one centavo allowance and rice and coffee as meals. With good standing, she had her mind set on her next goal: going to college.
“Giving up or surrendering wasn’t in my vocabulary. The strong heart of my mother was passed on to me as she was my inspiration to strive to get us out of the predicament we were in,” she stressed.
“When I was in fourth year high school, I was deep in thought of what to do to support my college education. Then, God in all His goodness, stepped in again. The Guidance Office in our school announced that the SM Foundation was offering scholarships for qualified students. I knew at that very moment that He was with me. All I had to do is to apply for the scholarship,” she recalled.

She vividly remembers sending her SM College Scholarship program application at the Customer Service of the SM in Quiapo and how she learned on May 9, 1995 that she would be interviewed for the scholarship in room 214 of the MSE Bldg. The three-digit number has since become unforgettable for her. By June 1995, Macaspac was among the SM scholars who had started their college education under the scholarship program.
According to her, the scholarship helped her become a well-rounded individual. It was the key to the realization of her dreams and paved the way to success. The activities provided by SM Foundation, such as the scholars’ assembly, the orientation, leadership training, sports fest and annual retreat, were very memorable for her.
“Looking back, the retreats, monthly meetings and being able to work in SM as an employee, followed up by our project director boosted my self-esteem and opened my world to service,” she said.

Rosalie at the Philippine School for the Deaf

Before teaching, she first worked as a Merchandise and Planning Control-Clerk at the SM Head Office, which was then located in Calle Echague, Manila. She was hired immediately after college.
Working in DepEd has always been her dream, and she is proud of where she is today: “Since day one of my college days, I aimed to be a public-school teacher. I am happy with my work now as a High School Teacher for Deaf learners. I am so privileged that I am in this community and my heart is entwined with my students.”
“I am not ashamed to tell my colleagues that I had a humble beginning and I thank SM Foundation for putting me where I am now. I owe these blessings to SM, Henry “Tatang” Sy, SM Foundation, Ma’am Nilda Bernaldez, and my fellow SM-Scholars, most especially, my mother. They are all the instruments to why I chose to give back to a special community and dedicate my life to being an effective SPED teacher.”

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Daughter of former flower farmers lives a vibrant life through the SM Scholarship grant

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Jonnah (center) with her parents during her graduation

Stability is the foundation of a well-lived life. With basic needs fulfilled, people have the opportunity to develop themselves, explore various facets of life, and contribute to the welfare of the community.

When aspiring youth, especially those from low-income households, are given the chance to stand on solid ground, they readily take the chance. They utilize it as a seedbed where they can cultivate their dreams and aspirations.

One testament to this is SM scholar alumna Jonnah Jane Sacamay, who grew up in a family where stability seemed like an uncharted territory. Years back, Jonnah’s family’s main source of living was flower farming. This made them walk on a thin line as the demand for flowers was seasonal, and they were also often affected by unpredictable weather disturbances.

But while they had journeyed through life with uncertainty, they had always planted in her mind the power of education.

“Given that the nature of farming is very seasonal, our income is not stable. Aside from augmenting our daily needs, we also had to ensure that my education is secured,” Jonnah recalled.

Holding on to the power of education

And so, to help her family, she studied hard in grade school as soon as she learned about others who had the opportunity to pursue college through the SM College Scholarship Program. With her whole heart dedicated to learning and her eyes set on the SM scholarship, she finished high school as the class valedictorian. Once the forms were available, she immediately processed her application at the SM Store in Cebu.

“I was informed that I got accepted as an SM Scholar. From then on, a huge weight was lifted off my parents’ shoulders. I could pursue my chosen degree in my chosen university,” she added.

Through the scholarship offered by the SM group through SM Foundation, she was able to focus on the development of her skills and knowledge not only in accountancy but especially in life. She became a Magna Cum Laude graduate of BS Accountancy at the University of San Carlos.

“The SM Scholarship helped me reach my dream of becoming a CPA, and this opened doors for me, enabling me to land a job that empowered me to help my family,” she said.

“My experience in retail has given me wide knowledge in different areas. With this, I always make sure that my family makes informed decisions in all aspects of life. One thing that has become a tradition among SM Cebu scholars during my time was to have an outreach program. In our own way, we were able to pay forward the help that we received from SM. It was a fulfilling experience that we could share our blessings in our own little way,” she added.

Jonnah currently serves as a Senior Accounting Manager at the SM Store, Cebu. Aside from financial security, she currently takes care of her parents’ medical expenses and lets them enjoy vibrant life experiences after retiring as flower farmers.

“Having a degree enabled me and my family to experience more in life. It paved the way for me to secure a stable job, which allowed me to travel, treat my family to a nice meal, take them shopping on special occasions, and most importantly, support my parents and their medical expenses. Aside from providing me with a scholarship grant, working in SM has provided a sense of security for me and my family,” she shared.

Opening doors to more

SM Foundation made it its goal to help create an environment where low-income families can thrive and achieve stability, just like how the SM College Scholarship Program paved ways for Jonnah and her family.

For the school year 2023-2024, the application period is open from February 1-March 31, 2023. The selected scholars may specialize in accounting, information technology, engineering, and education with full tuition and monthly allowance, including enrichment programs and activities.

For more information about the SM College Scholarship program, visit https://www.sm-foundation.org/what_we_do/college-scholarship-program.

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Gear up for a healthier life with the country’s biggest cycling festival

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Pru Life UK’s PRURide PH is back!

Leading life insurer Pru Life UK is bringing back PRURide Philippines, the country’s biggest cycling festival, as part of its advocacy to help Filipinos live a healthier lifestyle through cycling.

This year’s PRURide Philippines, which will be held on May 21 in Clark and May 28 in Cebu, is part of Prudential’s 175th anniversary celebration, including its 100 years in Asia. To launch this event and celebrate life for better health and wellness, Pru Life UK is doing a ceremonial fun ride around Bonifacio Global City with its employees, agency force, and partners from the government and private sectors.

PRURide Philippines 2023 is bigger with the participation of its official advocates Gretchen Ho, Kim Atienza, and Zoren Legaspi; cycling content creators Ger Victor, Darlings Levi & Sara, Jeno Cuenco and Ian Austria; and Pru Life UK’s health champions Miguel Reyes, Montini De Guzman, and Aless Castañeda.

“PRURide Philippines 2023 is about celebrating life and riding together with Filipinos and families for better health and wellness. Filipinos can continue to count on Pru Life UK to have access to many customer-centric health protection and wealth offerings to help them get the most out of life,” says Eng Teng Wong, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pru Life UK.

Fun activities await cyclists at PRURide PH 2023 in May

With a bigger and more exciting cycling festival this year, the ride will be held in two legs, one in Clark and one in Cebu, which are both open to families with child-friendly activities as part of the festivities.

Casual and seasoned cyclists from Luzon and Visayas can join the Gran Fondo, a safe and timed ride ranging from 30 to 60 and 100 kilometers. Gran Fondo 30 is ideal for beginners, while the 100 replicates the route taken by professional cyclists. Those looking for a moderate challenge can join the Gran Fondo 60, which follows a condensed format of the 100.

Professional and amateur cyclists can also be part of the free Virtual PRURide PH, a 175K virtual race happening on May 21 in Clark and May 28 in Cebu. The cyclist finishing with the best time will be declared this category’s winner.​

The Family Fun Ride is a 5K cycling activity for groups, while the Kids Cup is a fun and friendly race for children.
PRURide PH 2023 will end on a high note with a free concert by a top OPM band both in its Clark and Cebu legs.

“The pandemic has shown us how important health is for ourselves and our loved ones. We invite Filipino families to take the first step to a healthier lifestyle by cycling with us in Clark and Cebu for a bigger and better PRURide Philippines this year,” says Allan Tumbaga, Executive Vice President and Chief Customer and Marketing Officer of
Pru Life UK.

Registration for PRURide PH is now open. The registration fee across all Gran Fondo distances is P1,000. All participants will receive a PRURide PH 2023 jersey, and all finishers will take home a finisher medal. To join, please visit prulifeuk.com.ph/en/pruride2023.

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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 largest life insurance agency force with more than 33,000 licensed agents.
The company is the number one life insurer in the Philippines for two consecutive years in terms of new business annual premium equivalent* (2020-2021) and led in the renewal premium income** from variable life insurance products ranking (2021) according to the Insurance Commission. Pru Life UK is headquartered in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Pru Life UK and Prudential 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
Notes:

*New business annual premium equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year
** Renewal premium income – premium collected for existing policies

About Prudential plc
Prudential plc provides life and health insurance and asset management in 24 markets across Asia and Africa. The business helps people get the most out of life, by making healthcare affordable and accessible and by promoting financial inclusion. Prudential protects people’s wealth, helps them grow their assets, and empowers them to save for their goals. The business has dual primary listings on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (2378) and the London Stock Exchange (PRU). It also has a secondary listing on the Singapore Stock Exchange (K6S) and a listing on the New York Stock Exchange (PUK) in the form of American Depositary Receipts. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and is also included for trading in the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme and Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme.
Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
For more information: https://www.prudentialplc.com/

Make breakfast a delightful time for your family with these tips

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Busy mornings are always a challenge for moms. Often, you and your family get overwhelmed by the morning rush that you barely have time to catch up with each other.

Not to worry — tomorrow is always a new opportunity for you to create a delightful breakfast experience for your loved ones that may set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Here’s how:

1. Have a morning playlist full of upbeat, happy songs

Begin the day on the right note — literally! Play your family’s favorite happy, upbeat songs in the background to pump up everyone in the morning. Listening to lively tunes will help lighten up the mood and lift up any weary spirit.

Pro tip: Create a shared playlist the night before or during the weekend. This not only ensures that everyone’s favorite music is included, but it can also be an amazing bonding and enjoyable activity for the family.

2. Open the curtains and let the sunshine in

Let the sunlight flood your dining room. It feels like a no-brainer, but this is a great way to awaken the family’s bodily rhythm to get everyone ready for the day. It may also keep the kids from getting back to snoozing! Together, enjoy the gentle warmth of the sunlight while soaking up and getting a boost from that good ol’ Vitamin D.

3. Prepare a hearty and delicious breakfast

Having a delightful breakfast is a must in every family’s morning routine! It helps give everyone the energy they’ll need to conquer all the tasks and activities at work or school. To whip up tasty and nutritious meals and drinks, remember to use high-quality products such as those from Universal Robina Corporation (URC).

For breakfast, classic silog meals like tocilog and baconsilog are foolproof. So, make sure to choose products that are farm-fresh quality, like the ones from Robina Farms.

Robina Farms Honey-Cured Bacon: You and your children will enjoy this tender, premium bacon that has the right amount of sweetness from honey.
Robina Farms Primera Tocino: Another option for the family? These juicy chunks of prime pork that have a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Robina Farms Premium Brown Eggs: Of course, you can’t forget the -log in your silog. Choose these farm-fresh ones that contain essential nutrients such as DHA and choline.

To complete the morning meal, include delicious and energizing drinks! Here are some good choices for the family:

Vitasoy Plus Milky: This one’s for the whole family! Satisfy your creamy and milky morning cravings with this calcium and protein-rich soy milk drink.
Great Taste White Twin Pack: You and your hubby will surely love its swaktong timpla ng rich coffee at sweet cream. As a cherry on top, its Aromanamnam (coffee aroma) can help boost your energy – aroma pa lang ganado ka.

With a breakfast made delightful with these products, your whole family will be excited to wake up every morning.

4. Make it a tradition and create lasting memories

Once the yummy breakfast is set, now is the perfect time to gather around the dining table, enjoy the meal, and open yourselves to great conversations with each other. By making these simple yet special meals a tradition, you can create lasting memories, build stronger relationships, and, most of all, create a happy and loving home that the entire family will always treasure.

Make your mornings count! Have a delightful breakfast with your family every day with the help of URC. They offer a variety of good food and beverage choices that will surely delight the whole family anytime, anywhere.

Make #URDelightfulChoice from URC’s wide range of high-quality products. Shop your favorite URC products at a supermarket near you or shop online via GoCart.

Cebu Pacific, Singapore Tourism Board renew partnership to fly every Juan to Singapore

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Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading airline, has strengthened its partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to help travelers reimagine the Lion City and visit Singapore.
CEB and STB previously signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in April 2022 to mark the reopening of Singapore’s borders. With the successes of the past year, both parties today renewed the MOU to intensify their collaboration to promote travel to Singapore, which is one of the top-of-mind destinations for visitors from the Philippines. Key projects in this 2023 MOU will include joint marketing and promotions, and joint business development in the areas of fly-cruise and meetings and incentive corporate groups.
“We are delighted to renew our partnership with Cebu Pacific, which contributed greatly to Singapore’s strong tourism numbers for 2022,” said Ms. Juliana Kua, Assistant Chief Executive for International Group, Singapore Tourism Board (STB). “Philippines is a key market for Singapore, and the attractive promotions from Cebu Pacific will be complemented by STB’s ‘SingapoRewards’ programme, which offers a free experience for every eligible tourist to Singapore.
SingapoRewards[1] is a new programme that will provide international visitors with an opportunity to try one of nearly 40 new or “off-the-beaten-path” experiences in Singapore for free, across the whole of 2023.
CEB provides strong connectivity to Singapore as it currently flies from Manila, Cebu, Davao, and starting in April, from Clark, Pampanga.
“We value this partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board. With recovery in place and our growth plans set in motion, our main goal now is to fly every Juan to exciting destination such as Singapore and enjoy all the offering in this beautiful destination that we missed doing during the pandemic,” said Candice Iyog, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of Cebu Pacific.
CEB currently flies thrice daily between Manila and Singapore, providing passengers easy access to the Lion City, to experience its famous culinary scene, see its scenic spots, engage in thrill-seeking activities, or go shopping.
Passengers from the Visayas may also conveniently reach Singapore through Cebu Pacific’s daily flights from Mactan Cebu International Airport.
CEB will also increase its Singapore flights from Davao up to 4x weekly starting on March 26, 2023.
Travelers from Northern Luzon will also have a new gateway as CEB starts its daily Clark – Singapore flight on April 28, 2023.
To spur travels to Singapore, CEB travelers can book their flights for as low as PHP499 one-way base fare, exclusive of surcharges and fees on March 13 until March 15, 2023. The travel period is from June 1 to November 30, 2023.
Passengers with existing Travel Funds may use these to pay for flights and other add-ons. Apart from the Travel Fund, other payment options such as payment centers, credit or debit cards, and e-wallets may also be used.
CEB now flies to 34 domestic and 25 international destinations, spanning across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

[1] Redemptions and bookings can be made on the VisitSingapore app or SingapoRewards microsite at https://singaporewards.visitsingapore.com/.

HONOR X7a with Industry-setting 3 Day Battery Life arrives in PH at Php 7,990 only

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All-day battery life, powerful camera, massive storage and an expansive display come together in this NEW HONOR X7a, perfect for those who strive to maximize their day. For only Php 7,990, you can get a FREE HONOR Earbuds worth Php 1,590.

Global technology brand HONOR today announced the launch of the HONOR X7a. Featuring a long-lasting 6,000mAh battery, a 50MP Ultra-clear Quad Camera system, 128GB storage, and a stunning 6.74-inch HONOR FullView Display, the new HONOR X Series smartphone comes with extraordinary battery life and powerful hardware to offer a well-rounded use experience throughout the day, and more – all at an affordable price.

“After the massive hit of HONOR X9a 5G, we want to introduce to you the new HONOR X7a. With a 3-day battery life, people can do more and be more using this new smartphone. At a very affordable price, HONOR X7a offers quality and premium experience,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.

Slim Body, Large Battery
Embedded in HONOR X7a’s slim and chic body, the 6,000mAh battery delivers the extraordinary battery life among all HONOR X Series smartphones to date. Featuring HONOR Smart Power Saving Technology to optimize power consumption, the latest HONOR X7a can support up to 42 hours of social media browsing, 42 hours of phone calling or 29 hours of music streaming on a full charge, making it a reliable companion for users who are constantly on the go. Packed with 22.5W HONOR SuperCharge, HONOR X7a can be charged vastly to allow users to enjoy over 10 hours of music streaming with just 30 minutes of charging.

With industry-level innovative battery technologies, the cell of the HONOR X7a comes with a higher energy density and a reduced thickness, contributing to the long battery life and the slim form factor of device. The battery also demonstrates exceptional longevity, capable of maintaining above 80% health even after three years of use.

The HONOR X7a has also entered the DXOMARK smartphone battery rankings, earning the DXOMARK Gold Battery Label in recognition of its outstanding battery performance.

A Superb Display for an Immersive Viewing Experience
Featuring a 6.74-inch HONOR FullView Display with a 90.07% screen-to-body ratio, the HONOR X7a delivers an immersive viewing experience, no matter when the user is working, streaming videos or gaming. Supporting HD resolution and a color depth of 16.7 million colors, the HONOR X7a displays visuals in stunning clarity and vibrancy, perfect for viewing photos, videos and movies.

Certified by TÜV Rheinland for low blue light emissions, the display on the HONOR X7a can be used for extended periods of time without stressing the eye. The Eye Comfort Mode, eBook Mode and Dark Mode on the HONOR X7a provide additional display personalization options for further reducing eye fatigue.

Smooth User Experience Enabled by Superior Camera Capabilities and Large Storage
The HONOR X7a features an impressive 50MP Ultra-clear Quad Camera system comprising a 50MP Main Camera, a 5MP Wide Camera, 2MP Macro Camera and a 2MP Depth Camera, allowing users to capture their memorable life moments in vivid detail, all day and all night long. On the front, the 8MP Front Camera makes taking high-quality portraits easy, ideal for selfie lovers who enjoy snapping photos with their loved ones.

Users who enjoy keeping their media always accessible at their fingertips can take full advantage of the large 128GB storage drive, which can keep over 28,000 pictures, 11,000 songs or 450 HD videos locally. The MicroSD card slot allows users to further expand storage by up to 1TB, bringing enhanced flexibility to meet their business and personal needs.

Pricing and Availability
Designed for a style-conscious audience, the HONOR X7a is available in three stunning colors: Titanium Silver, Ocean Blue and Midnight Black. Starting from February 22, the HONOR X7a will be available to purchase via all HONOR kiosks and partner online stores – Lazada (http://bit.ly/3IHXprc), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3ErRvYs), and Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3KvRNS6).

HONOR X7a is priced at Php 7,990 with FREE HONOR Earbuds worth Php 1,590 from February 22 to 28, 2023.

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

About HONOR

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

How everyone can benefit from mental health counselling

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Mental health is a basic human right and it is directly connected with our ability to make decisions, build relationships, and shape the world we live in. However, recent events combined with continued mental health stigma have caused mental health issues to rise globally. AXA Philippines, one of the leading insurance companies in the country, shared in their 2022 Mind Health and Wellbeing study that mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression are common among people in Asia, while the 2022 State of the Global Workplace Report by analytics firm Gallup revealed that stress among workers in the Philippines is the highest among Southeast Asian nations.
Though we still have a long way to go, the good news is that the Philippines ranked second among Asian countries in terms of taking measures to improve their citizens’ wellbeing in the last months of 2020, according to the 2021 Pulse of Asia: The Health of Asia Barometer report. Seeking professional advice, also known as psychotherapy, is not just for those with diagnosed mental health disorders. Psychotherapy can also provide a safe space where one can deal not only with stress, anxiety, but also healthy ways on how to improve the quality of their lives. According to Healthline, here are some key benefits of therapy:
Understanding yourself and your emotions better. Every person will go through highly emotional times at some point in their lives, which can be overwhelming. Talking to a licensed mental health professional can help you identify and understand things better, no matter how big or small your concern may seem. According to the American Psychological Association, psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, encourages open and honest dialogue about issues that cause you distress and develop strategies that will help manage stressors that impact your life.
Helping you regain a sense of control. As we grow older, we can often feel overwhelmed with how fast-paced and unpredictable life can become. Similar to how you feel better after talking to a friend, therapy relieves you of unnecessary emotions and anxiety when we start to feel lost. It lets you see things in another perspective and gives a sense of ease, which ultimately leads to better decision making whether in your personal or professional life.
Stress and anxiety can impact anyone, but the upside is that anyone can practice good mental health habits. Practicing me-time is part of AXA’s recommended good physical health behaviors along with good nutrition, regular exercise, plenty of sleep, not smoking, and low alcohol intake, which is an essential skill a person needs to flourish, according to the 2022 Mind Health and Wellbeing study.
Taking the necessary steps to ensure you and your family’s overall wellbeing is essential in achieving your goals and dreams. In line with their proactive and holistic approach to health, AXA Philippines offers free access to counselling with licensed psychologists to its Health Care Access customers.
Health Care Access is AXA’s comprehensive health protection product. It is ideal for families and individuals looking into getting a plan that covers hospitalization and primary health care needs. Health Care Access offers inpatient care, outpatient care, and 24/7 teleconsultation, emergency care, preventive care, plus a longevity health fund that may be used for future medical needs at age 76 onwards.
Current policy holders can easily book their free session through Health Hub on Emma, AXA Philippines’ award-winning app that lets customers check their policy information, file for claims, and avail of medical teleconsultation, among others.
“While the future is something you can’t predict, your wellbeing is something you can protect. You can and should future-proof your wellness,” said Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer. “At AXA, we are committed towards raising awareness on the importance of mental health, breaking down stigma, and equipping individuals with the tools to protect and improve their mental wellbeing for a better and healthier life ahead.”
For more information on AXA Health Care Access, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/health-care-access.
ABOUT AXA PHILIPPINES
Established in 1999, AXA Philippines is one of the largest and fastest growing insurance companies in the country. It offers financial security to close to 2 million individuals through its group and individual life insurance as well as general insurance products through its wholly-owned subsidiary Charter Ping An.
AXA Philippines is one of the first to introduce bancassurance operations in the country, and is among the pioneers in the investment-linked insurance sector.
AXA now offers a complete range of products for all its customers’ insurance and financial protection needs, including savings and investments, health plans, income protection; and fire, car, personal accident, and more.
AXA Philippines is a joint venture between the AXA Group, headquartered in France, GT Capital Holdings, Inc. (GT Capital), a leading listed conglomerate in the Philippines, and Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company (Metrobank), one of the Philippines’ largest financial institutions. It is duly recognized by the Insurance Commission and has following licenses to operate: 2019/37-R for AXA and 2019/40-R for Charter Ping An.

“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.