Wednesday, October 31, 2018




MANILA, October 30, 2018 – Brain Shen, OPPO Global Vice President and President of China Business Department, claimed on Sina Weibo, one of the most popular social media platforms in China, that an OPPO mobile phone successfully completed 5G internet access for the first time. In the research and development of 5G, OPPO has once again taken the lead in the industry and has laid a solid foundation for commercially launching 5G phones next year.



OPPO VP Brain’s Weibo post detailed how OPPO made the connection successfully between an R15 smartphone terminal and the 5G network, in their 5G communication protocol laboratory environment. It is said the connection was carried out on a pre-commercially available 5G smartphone developed on the basis of OPPO R15. It was customized with fully integrated 5G components including System board, RF, RFFE and antenna. The "5G" logo also appeared in the top right corner of the screen.



As a pioneer of 5G, OPPO committed to be one of the key contributors to the 5G standard and has become an important promoter of 5G product development and commercialization. Brain stated they would strive to become the first brand to release real commercial 5G smartphones as well.



Recently at the Beijing 2018 Qualcomm China Technology and Cooperation Summit, OPPO announced the partnership with the Qualcomm Technologies', also known as “5G Pilot” program to jointly explore mobile technology innovations in the 5G network. After then, the OPPO Research Institute was unveiled to comprehensively enhance the company's technological innovation and research capabilities. This will facilitate the pre-research of core technology based on the user's needs or even more, to create technical qualification for the company's future product competitiveness. The OPPO Research Institute is headquartered in Shenzhen with other R&D centers in Beijing, Shanghai, Yokohama, and Silicon Valley.



Started with the participation of the 5G standard project in 2015, OPPO kept solidly growing in 5G research and development. Contributing to the freezing of the international 5G standard, OPPO also took the lead in the development of 5G mobile phones and also explored what the 5G mobile phone can do. International standards organization 3GPP stated that OPPO ranked first in the number of documents submitted by a global tech company. Also, OPPO began to explore 5G applications, including 3D vision and ambient intelligence. In May 2018, OPPO announced the successful implementation of the world's first 5G video call demonstration using 3D structured light technology. Conducted at the OPPO Research Institute, a 3D image camera was integrated with an OPPO mobile phone to capture 3D portrait information. The Qualcomm 5G new air interface terminal prototype was used to finally restore the 3D portrait image at the remote receiving display.



OPPO is also actively exploring 5G applications. At the recent Qualcomm 4G/5G Summit, Henry Tang, Director of the OPPO Standard Research Center, delivered the speech of “Ubiquitous Reality – When 5G Meets 3D Vision”. Ubiquitous Reality will be the first phase of 5G-supported application scenarios. Virtual and alternative reality will give users a fully immersive subversive experience. Through ubiquitous real-world applications, users will experience many 5G-specific application scenarios such as 3D video calls, online games, AR selfies, and AR shopping.





This demonstration would be a milestone for the whole process. The 5G team will continue to make new progress and achievements, and also showcase our expertise in mobile phone design technology. OPPO will accelerate the development of 5G smartphones and lay a solid foundation for the release of commercially available 5G smartphones in 2019.





Manila, Philippines – How can you make love last the test of time? Is there truly such a thing as forever?


Rebisco’s upcoming family-oriented movie explores these timeless and enduring questions in a simple yet poignant story of a family’s journey to discover the true meaning of commitment, even as people, priorities and feelings change.


Aptly dubbed Three Words to Forever, the movie is the snack giant’s third sponsored cinema offering which aims to inspire and strengthen Filipino families by promoting values of understanding, respect, unity and love, among others. Their first film, in partnership with Star Cinema, was the 2013 comedy-drama blockbuster hit Four Sisters and A Wedding, which coincided with Rebisco’s 50th anniversary celebration. It featured an ensemble cast including Angel Locsin, Bea Alonzo, Toni Gonzaga, Shaina Magdayao and Enchong Dee.



In 2017, the snack maker co-produced the heartwarming family drama, Seven Sundays, which starred Ronaldo Valdez, Aga Muhlach, Dingdong Dantes, Cristine Reyes and Enrique Gil.


Three Words to Forever will mark the homegrown snack manufacturer’s third collaboration with Star Cinema, and will cap its year-long 55th anniversary celebration. The highly anticipated movie, under the direction of Cathy Garcia-Molina, will also star Kathryn Bernardo.


Rediscovering family and relationships
“Filipinos have close-knit families. It is one of our strengths as a people,” Rebisco President Jonathan C. Ng said. “But even families need time and effort if they are to remain strong and stable. And that’s what this movie is about. It’s about the realities—the proverbial ups and downs—of families and relationships.”




Ng noted that, as a well-loved legacy brand enjoyed by generations of Filipino families, this movie reinforces the company’s vision to bring families and loved ones together through the shared love for food. “Sometimes, all it takes to rekindle the love is a simple gesture, like snacking together while talking or reminiscing the good times,” he added. “Family and food are two things that are near and dear to our hearts. We hope that this movie inspires people to rethink and reaffirm their relationships, especially as the holiday season approaches.”

For updates on Three Words to Forever, visit the https://www.facebook.com/RebiscoSandwichOfficial. And tell us: How do you express your enduring love and commitment in just three words?












Tuesday, October 30, 2018









6 October 2018, Manila, Philippines - Predator Gaming has geared up for Asia Pacific Predator League 2019, the region’s biggest world-class gaming tournament, as it officially launched last October at One Esplanade in Pasay City. This milestone event coincides with the reveal of celebrity gamer-slash-cosplay sensation Alodia Gosiengfiao as the newest Predator Gaming Ambassador.







Now on its second year, the Asia Pacific Predator League is the most anticipated eSports competition. Since its inception and maiden run in 2018, the Gaming Tournament has since expanded to include participants from a total of 16 countries: Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam – more than double that of last year’s total participants.



This year, Asia Pacific Predator League draws battle lines for two of the biggest and hottest gaming titles: PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) and DOTA 2. Vying for a total prize pool of up to USD 400,000.00 for the whole tournament, competitions and local eliminations will be held to determine champions and representatives for each country, before culminating in Bangkok, Thailand early next year.



“Predator Gaming is extremely proud of the Philippine gaming talent, and we surely shared this talent with the world when Quid Pro Quo bagged 3rd place in the grand finals last year,” shares Mr. Manuel Wong, General Manager of Acer Philippines. “But, at the end of the day, what makes us even prouder is seeing so much growth and potential in the Philippines eSports scene – that’s what the Asia Pacific Predator League is all about.”




To set the tone for the upcoming months of intense gaming and competition, Predator Gaming kicked off the PUBG and DOTA 2 fever in style. Creating a PUBG, DOTA 2, and cosplayer’s paradise in one jampacked event, the immersive affair drew crowds with the DOTA 2 Green Screen GIF Station, where guests were given the chance to pose with their favorite DOTA 2 characters; and the DOTA 2 and PUBG game stations, where brave souls may step into the games’ universe and take a gander at defeating enemies.




Completing the thrilling event and serving as the highlight of the night was the announcement of the Philippines’ biggest cosplay star, Alodia Gosiengfiao, as the Predator Gaming Ambassador. Making a show-stopping entrance as Alodia gushed about her excitement for the Asia Pacific Predator League competition.




“I’m so happy to be joining the Predator Gaming family in time for the Competition,” enthuses Alodia. “What got me into gaming was the incredible camaraderie and the intense passion gaming enthusiasts had, and these are characteristics that are so uniquely innate in the community. I’m so excited to witness these as the tournament unfolds.”




In the Philippines, the tournaments begin with 4 regional qualifiers each for both PUBG and DOTA 2. Powered by TNC Cyber Cafe , the qualifiers will begin this October for PUBG; and in November for DOTA 2.




For PUBG, PHP 15,000.00 and PHP 5,000.00, plus Predator merchandise await the champions and 2nd placers or the regional qualifiers, respectively. The top 3 from each qualifier will move on to the national finals, where the teams will go head-to-head against each other in a two-day match with 10 rounds, for a chance to win PHP 120,000.00, PHP 40,000.00, and PHP 20,000.00 for the champion, 2nd placer, and 3rd placer, respectively.



Meanwhile, for DOTA 2, the winners for each of the regional qualifiers will complete the 4 teams who will be competing, in double elimination format, for PHP 120,000.00, PHP 40,000.00, and PHP 20,000.00, for the champions, 2nd placers, and 3rd placers, respectively. The champions will also get chance to battle it out with the TNC Predator, the Philippine DotA pride.




The PUBG national champion and the TNC Predator will be flying to Bangkok, Thailand early next year to vie for the coveted grand prize.




For more information about Asia Pacific Predator League 2019, visit https://predator-league.com/.



Monday, October 29, 2018

Durex Philippines recently launched its Always Come Prepared campaign that aims create HIV awareness and help prevent it. Key organizations--UNAIDS, Love Yourself, and advocates from the medical field, and Boys Night Out (BNO), joined hands with Durex on its mission to curb HIV in the country. (L-R) BNO's Slick Rick, Reckitt Benckiser Read for regulatory Atty. Ricky Salvador, Sex Therapist Dr. Rica Cruz, UNAIDS Country Director for the Philippines Dr. Louie Ocampo, Reckitt Benckiser General Manager Chris Ritchie, Infectious Diseases Expert Dr. Marion Kwek, Love Yourself and Safe Spaces advocate Losif Cadelina, and BNO's Toni Tony and Sam YG.

Only 15 percent of young adults aged 15 to 24 years old have knowledge about HIV prevention, a UNAIDS Philippines study showed. The lack of an extensive sex education in the curriculum is seen as a contributing factor—directly or indirectly—to the country’s high HIV growth rate.



Discussions on the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV have always been done in extremes – either it is too technical and clinical or it is peppered with myths and falsehoods – creating a large disconnect with young adults, the audience who matter the most.



“We believe that education is the best way to prevent HIV, especially among the young adults. If they are equipped with the right knowledge about HIV and its potential risks to their health, we believe that they stand a chance in protecting themselves against the chronic disease,” said (Karol Canlas) Durex Philippines (Brand Manager).



In September, Durex Philippines took the playful and quirky approach to bringing HIV awareness to mind with the launch of its “Always Come Prepared” campaign. Led by the radio trio of Sam YG, Tony Toni, and Slick Rick, the campaign aims to make the conversation on the threats and dangers of the disease lighter and easier to understand for the general public.



To pique the interests of young adults on the campaign, Durex also presented a unique visual of a toy soldier using the condom as a parachute.

UNAIDS Country Director for the Philippines Dr. Louie Ocampo shares that if the current trend of reported new HIV cases in the country, we are seeing tripling of numbers at about "265,000 cases by the end of 2028-2029."



“Their openness and tongue-in-cheek manner of talking about sex-related issues and concerns, particularly HIV, is a good way for us to reach the younger audience. Medical experts have long talked about the dangers of HIV, but why is it still rising in the Philippines? The message must have been lost somewhere,” said (Chrisel Segundo, Category Manager – Relief and Wellness).



Condoms are still the only known effective method of preventing the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. With its latest campaign, Durex Philippines aims to raise awareness and encourage the public to take active precautionary measures against HIV.



Senior Citizens gather for a meaningful entertainment at "Seniors Got Talent" in SM City Baliwag.
BALIWAG, Bulacan— To recognize the unique talents of the elderly regardless of their age and further uplift their interest in showcasing their individual skills, SM malls in Baliwag and Pulilan recently conducted a talent competition for senior citizens.

Dubbed as “Seniors Got Talent”, the event represent SM Malls’ biggest gathering of talents attended by more than 600 senior citizens.
90-year-old Santiago Salvador enticed the crowd as he recites “Ang Barangay ng Baliuag” his winning piece at Seniors Got talent in SM City Baliwag.

At SM City Baliwag, senior citizens owned the stage with their unique talents. 90-year-old Santiago Salvador emerged as the grand winner for his own poem composition “Ang Barangay ng Baliuag”. Other winners were Violeta Santiago, an educator from Brgy. Makinabang, 2nd place and Victoria De Guzman, 3rd place with her song piece “Bakit Ikaw Pa” by Imelda Papin.




Gracing the event were local government officials lead by Baliwag Mayor Ferdie Estrella and 2nd District Representative Gavini “Apol” Pancho with FSCAP Baliwag Chapter President Narciso Sta. Juana, OSCA Head Eligio Francisco Jr and SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Arch. Andrew Cristobal.

They were joined by Baliwag MSWDO Head Josephine Lopez, and Senior Citizen officials from 27 barangays in Baliwag.

Meanwhile, SM Center Pulilan bring together nine acts of senior citizens from different barangays in the municipality. Classic dance and song numbers are among the talents showcased. In the end, Epifhania Soñaga got the 1st place, followed by Norie Sinson and Emma Perez.

Criteria for judging includes Uniqueness 50%, Star Quality 30% and Audience Impact 20%. All winners bring home SM Gift Certificates worth 5000, 3000 and 2000 respectively.




The grand gathering coincide with the celebration of FSCAP-Baliwag Silver Jubilee with the theme: “Kilalanin at Parangalan Tagapagsulong ng karapatan ng nakakatanda tungo sa lipunang mapagkalinga”.































The issue of Job Sub-contracting is a hot-button topic these days and mired in a lot of confusion and misunderstanding. Ruby Pacis, President and CEO of Faith in God Professional and Technical Services Corporation (FIGRPMPTSC), one of the top Job Contracting and Subcontracting Corporations, wants to clarify a lot of those misconceptions.


While the word “agency” has had abad rap, not all Subcontracting companies are run skirting legalities and ethics. “We are one of the first few Subcontractors who were given a DO174-17 Certification from Department of Labor and Employment Office,” said Pacis, which is no small feat because the recent purge of Job Subcontractors in the Philippines has seen 4,580 companies downsized to 2,669 when the DO18-A Rules and Regulations on Contracting was enacted, and out of those, only 1,911 have successfully acquired the DO (Department Order) 174-17 license to (as of June 2018). Pacis’ corporation, FIGRPMTSC, is among in the first batch that was given one under the new rules. 


“I do not like to be identified as an agency because there’s a wrong connotation with that word,” said Pacis, who went into the business 15 years ago because as a Human Resources Professional she didn’t like seeing employees shortchanged. “We were one of the first Job Subcontractors which implemented the Regularization Scheme. 


Since the start of our business operation, we include the payment for Service Incentive Leaves and Separation Pay in our billing to all our clients. We provide Security of Employment and Security of Tenure” to all our employees," specified Pacis. "From day one they work for us. They are already considered on probation.” When a project ends, the employees are either transferred or are given Separation Pay. “That's the difference between FIG and other companies. It’s why we’re still here,” added Pacis. 


“We give our employees more than what the law mandates.” They subsidize HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) 70/30 and personal accident insurance also at 70/30, wherein FIGRPMPTSC subsidizes the 30% of the premiums. The company also provides for Christmas Packages aside from the 13th month pay given every December. 


Employees are also involved in Corporate Social Responsibility Programs, where they are given the opportunity to find joy in giving, through sharing their talents and skills. FIGRPMPTSC gives focus on highest Attendance Rate and Lowest Attrition Rate by having a dedicated Employee/Client Hotline, Talent Online Community, Work-Buddy System and other specialized Employee Engagement Programs. Pacis wants to ensure that her company always contributes to the highest productivity and profitability of her clients by closely supervising her employees to deliver greater work performance.

“It’s a changing market,” said Pacis, explaining the need for subcontracting in the first place. “The demands of principal’s major clients are not fixed, and sometimes when the business demand is low, the business of the principals is greatly affected due to higher number of regular manpower. It’s where the business flexibility that legitimate subcontractors offer and play a vital role in principal companies. 

We, in turn, can transfer the employees to another client while ensuring their Security of Tenure”. Pacis emphasizes that the definition of legitimate subcontracting allowed under Department Order (DO) 174-107 of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has several stringent requirements. A legitimate subcontractor uses its own method and equipment while performing the project inside or outside the premises of the principal/client. It has over-all control and direct supervision to its own employees performing the tasks for a specific project. At the same time, the legitimate subcontractor has sufficient capitalization, which, under the law should be a minimum of P5M. On her end, Pacis said FIG is worth P70.5M. 


“We have a group of professionals and management team consists of Technical Services or Account Manager, Account Specialist, Health & Safety Officers, and Finance Personnel managing our workforce, said Pacis." One thing that we consider our edge over the others is that we have our own Training Center equipped with world class facilities and modules where we provide Soft and Technical Skills Training to our employees. This enables our employees to be “Employment Ready” before we assign them to the Projects." FIG legitimately provides for Merchandizing Support & Services because they have their own Product Retail and Distribution Company. 


Housekeeping Support and Services among the “cream of the crop” because the company has complete Housekeeping Equipment and Rigid Training under their Property Management Support & Services Company, wherein they provide General Housekeeping and Property Maintenance of Hotels, Condominiums, Apartments, Private Buildings and the like. With extensive experience in Business Process Support and Contract Manufacturing, FIG is also an expert in providing Back Office Support Services like Recruitment Management, Employee Engagement using Online Platforms, Productivity & Performance Management, Marketing & Sales Management, Process Audit Management and Employee Learning & Training Development and Manufacturing Pre and Post Operation Management Services like Material Handling Services, Warehouse Management using their own equipment like hand tools and Forklift.

Pacis knows that people don’t necessarily understand the nitty-gritty of labor laws and only see the chaos in the news. She said she even talked to a political leader who admitted to her that their impression was that all subcontracting companies were operating illegally and they don’t give Security of Tenure to its employees. What is illegal is if the subcontractor is into labor-only contracting. Explaining further, Pacis illustrated: “Let’s say, a subcontracting company merely recruits employees and allows the clients to manage and control them for five months working along with the regular employees of the principal, doing the same tasks that are directly related to the “core business” of the same then renew its employment contract every five months depriving them of their employees’ rights as mandated by law. That's not legitimate subcontracting. And FIG doesn't do it that way. We do not provide employees or workers to our principals, we assign our regular employees to our Project with our principal using our own methods, equipment, tools through our own Management Team."

FIG is a Project Manager, Solutions Provider and not an employee recruiter. “We have a bilateral relationship with our employees wherein we give KRA (Key Result Area) and KPI (Key Performance Indicator) to them and in the same way, we take care of them and meet their employment needs in order to maintain and retain them in our company,” explained Pacis. There are four points that the law uses to determine who is the employer. Recruitment and Selection, Payment of Wages, Control and Supervision, and the Power to Discipline. FIG assiduously does all that.

What drives Pacis to continue improving and working towards the progress and stability of her company despite the difficulties--especially these days due to misconceptions and wrong notions against the subcontracting field--is her deepest desire to provide long-term eployment, which will result in improved life conditions for the people and improved economic conditions in the country. “I have been a Human Resources Practitioner since 1993, and I never stop learning about Human Resource Management, even now. 


I saw how some companies shortchanged employees, not always because it is their intention but because of alack of knowledge on Labor Laws and People Management. I wanted to put up a company that would provide job security and employ fair treatment and practices. I prayed about it for two years.” In 2003 she put up FIG, and like most startups, she started in an old garage. “Nobody wanted to put their faith in me because I was so young.” All she had was a capital of P65,000, a genuine desire to provide long-term employment to people, a belief in herself and a strong faith in God.

The company is now worth P70.5M and has four offices in four regions: NCR, Laguna, Pampanga and Cebu, but Pacis said it wasn’t always an easy trajectory. “I have opted to lose millions of pesos, just so I can stick to my principles. The name of my company is Faith In God, I should walk my talk.” She has turned down clients and employers who would bargain with her and offer less than what is mandated by law. This is stealing from the employee, she explained, and sometimes the profits are divvied up by the employer and the agency. “We educate our employees about their rights and remit all their Social Mandated Benefits up to the last centavo,” emphasized Pacis.

Pacis knows her competitors have said things such as, “Don’t do business with her, they’re expensive.” Another one is, “They’re ‘overcharging’”. To which, Pacis answers, “I give SIL (Service Incentive Leave). I give Separation Pay and all other government mandated benefits to all my employees because that is what employees deserve, so I have to include them in my billing to clients.”


Companies who do not engage in ethical practices may balk, but she doesn’t want to do business with those sorts of corporations anyway, and there are still big businesses that come to her all the time. “We don't do 555,” she said emphatically, explaining the notorious practice of agencies and employers of conniving, switching an employee within several agencies after five months so they never get regularized. “Kinakawawa nila ang mga Pilipino,” Pacis said with sadness. It only strengthened her resolve to operate her own business with a strict moral compass.

“It's not an easy name,” said Pacis of her company, Faith in God. “But everything started from faith. I didn't have big amount of money when I started, but I had the biggest faith in my heart.” The company wasn’t even supposed to be named that because when she was trying to register a company name at the Department of Trade and Industry, they told her she couldn’t possibly use “Faith in God” because it’s the name of a church. And so, she was resigned to a utilitarian name such as Laguna Recruitment and Placement, or something to that effect. So, no one was more surprised when she got her certificate aand read “Faith in God”. The bureaucracy works in mysterious ways, and for Pacis it was a blessing. “I cried,” she recalled.

She took that as a sign. “It’s not much a business but a vocation,” said Glenn Edralin, Assistant Vice-President of FIG. Pacis agreed. “It really is a vocation. Human Resources (HR) is the most powerful department in any organization. It should be. If you are an HR Practitioner, you're not just an employee advocate, you're also a business partner. HR is my passion.


While she completed a certificate in Applied Master of Business Administration, Pacis wants to focus more on earning a degree in Organizational Development, People Management, Emotional Intelligence, Employment Readiness and other courses that will equip her in discovering and creating programs that will help motivate employees to achieve their highest productivity and achieve a great work performance because this leads to their own professional advancement. "Yes, I am a businesswoman," said Pacis, "but I manage my companies with clear objectives and a God-fearing heart."

To learn more about FAITH IN GOD RPM PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL SERVICES CORPORATION (FIGRPMPTSC), visit the official website at www.figrpmptsc.com and follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FIGRPMPTSC. You may also contact directly to the following branches: (PR)



Laguna Branch- Unit 1, 1st and 2nd Floor Andenson Building II, National Highway, Barangay Parian, Calamba City, 4027, Laguna, Philippines, (049) 306-0916/ (049) 508-0146


Pampanga Branch- Commercial Area 2 & 3, Ground Floor, Tower B, Donggwang ODE County Building, C.M. Recto Highway, Clark Freeport Zone, 2009 Pampanga, Philippines, (045) 499-5133 to 34


NCR Branch, Units 1, 10 and 11, Mezzanine Floor, ADB Avenue Tower, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, 1605 Metro Manila, Philippines, 02-533-9803, 02-984-7702, 02-967-0630


Cebu Branch, Unit 6, 7 and 8, EMT Building, C. St., Victoria Village, Tabunok, Talisay City 6045, Cebu, Philippines, 0915-810-0094/0919-657-0689



The Praxis board gamifies real-life scenarios-- every turn allows players to test their financial decision-making skills and with a little bit of luck, and Set for Tomorrow plans thrown in the mix, the ebb and flow of Praxis cash decides the fate of their retirement and stability!



FWD Life Philippines, one of the country’s fastest-growing life insurers, has introduced a series of new protection plans that can be tailored to meet individual customer needs.

“FWD’s Set for Tomorrow will provide protection for the people we love and care about. The coverage amount and period can be customized to any personal situation and budget. Our aim is to make real and substantial protection accessible to everyone,” said FWD Life Philippines President and Chief Executive Officer Peter Grimes.

Dubbed Set for Tomorrow, the insurance product has three variants that address the different needs to take care of those left behind should the unexpected happen—Short Term Cover, Income Protector, and Estate Protector.

“Set for Tomorrow caters to Filipinos from 18 to 70 years of age, from young urban professionals to retirees,” Peter added. “With very basic social security, many professionals have an enormous protection gap.”


Taking responsibility to protect those you love




From left: Lou Ventigan of LemonGreentTea.ph, Enzo Luna of JuanManilaExpress, and Jonel Uy of BloggerManila.com, are the high rollers, top 3 finishers with the most accumulated Praxis cash and receive FWD jackets from Head of Marketing Roche Vandenberghe (rightmost)

In today’s uncertain world, FWD’s latest insurance product is there to protect the ones you love. Three common reasons that lead to financial problems for those left behind include:

People have loans and accountabilities that are transferred to their family if they are no longer around.

Raising a family requires time and money. Also, if the breadwinner falls away, the family will still need money to continue living a life with dignity.

People who build up wealth worry about what they leave behind and especially how to best avoid a family crisis in settling estate taxes and dividing assets. As part of any estate planning solution, long-term insurance coverage is essential to evenly share the assets and ensure those left behind feel equally treated.


Solutions that provide guaranteed protection and give you peace of mind








Bloggers and media all smiles as they play their cards right for the goal of a secure retirement.

FWD’s Set for Tomorrow has three variants that meet the needs of the modern Filipino. Short Term Cover is an affordable term life plan that provides guaranteed life insurance coverage for five or 10 years.

Income Protector ensures that your family can continue their life even if you are no longer around. Lastly, Estate Protector is a whole-life plan that provides guaranteed life insurance coverage until 120 years of age.

FWD wants to guide people in fitting the right variant, protection amount, coverage period, and payment terms to the customer’s preferences and abilities. With this in mind, FWD launched online calculator “Cali”. By answering just a few questions, Cali allows you to determine the best solution for you and your budget. To find out the Set for Tomorrow plan that’s perfect for your budget and insurance needs, simply visit cali.ph/SetForTomorrow.

FWD’s Set for Tomorrow plans are now available through FWD Life’s Financial Wealth Planners. Interested customers may call the 24/7 FWD Customer Connect Hotline at (02) 888-8388 or chat with a Customer Connect Executive via FWD’s 24/7 Live Chat (www.fwd.com.ph) to set an appointment. The plans will also soon be available at all branches of Security Bank, FWD’s bancassurance partner.





Friday, October 26, 2018

Little Ms. Thailand and Little Mr. Ireland are the winners for the Best in National Costume during the United Nations Celebration at SM City San Jose Del Monte.


It was a synergy of cultures as SM Malls in Marilao, San Jose Del Monte, Pulilan, and Baliwag recently commemorates the 73rdanniversary of United Nations Day.

SM Malls in Bulacan were instantly transformed into palette of hues as thousands of kids dressed up in their national costumes with their colorful flags.
Over 700 students from different schools in San Jose Del Monte City join the Parade of Nations and Costume Contest at SM.


“It is always our pleasure to host UN Day celebration because it teaches kids the importance of respect despite differences in culture, religion and language to achieve international understanding” shares SM City San Jose Del Monte Mall Manager Jose Mari Emmanuel Correa.

SM City Marilao Assistant Mall Manager Don Fiesta also added that UN Day celebration encourages appreciation on cultural diversity while raising awareness on United Nation’s role to the world.

Little Ms. Philippines wearing a red Maria Clara gown to showcase bountiful harvest of flowers and strawberries. 
During the celebration, participants performed traditional song and dance numbers, showcasing the culture and tradition of different countries. United Nations celebration also proved to be a treat to shoppers and participants as spectacular prizes and awards were given.

United Nations Day is one of the many exciting activities of SM Supermalls in honor of the intergovernmental organization that promotes human rights, social and economic development, and world peace. Each year, SM Supermalls organizes variety of events to mark UN Day. Activities range from film and art exhibitions, costume contests, symposiums to series of culture appreciation for students.




MANILA, Philippines – Red Bull Music 3Style is back in the Philippines for its fifth year as a nationwide tournament. The National Finals brings five (5) of the country’s top DJ’s to battle it out for a spot in the World Finals at Xylo at the Palace, in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, on Saturday, November 17th, 2018.
Qualifying DJ’s applied online and uploaded a short, five minute performance video showcasing three different musical genres. Each entry was judged on skill, originality, and music selection.
The six (6) DJ’s who advanced to the Red Bull Music 3Style Philippine National Finals are:
·         iNBiTUiN
·         Mark Thompson
·         Gavin Skewes
·         Arpee Ong
·         Jan Musa
·         DYHA
This year’s selection of judges include a number of the most influential names in the DJ scene.
·         DJ Shintaro (2013 World Champion) (Japan)
·         DJ Puffy (2016 World Champion) (Barbados)

For almost ten years, Red Bull Music 3Style has established itself as a premier global event. This year’s tournament brings DJs from 20 countries to go head-to-head at the World Finals in Taiwan to become the 2018 World Champion.

The time is now for a new face to step up and represent the Philippines. Who will it be? Who will bring the best beats and represent the Philippines?

#redbullmusic3style #playwithmusic
http://www.redbull3style.com



Quezon City, Philippines – October 26, 2018 –Thousands of Filipinos are expected to travel to their respective provinces in observance of Undas. Some of those who will traverse the road will be driving with their cars. For long trips, it is especially important to make sure that the car is properly equipped and in good condition for safe driving.

This Undas, PRESTONE, a leading innovator of cutting-edge coolants, brake fluid, and motor oils, is joining the “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” project of Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC), where they will be providing assistance to motorists who will pass through the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), the Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and the Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).

For a safer and convenient travel, PRESTONE shared safety tips to promote and ensure the safety of travelers heading to their provinces.

Prepare a list of emergency hotlines

Some unavoidable circumstances may occur while on the road, so take note of these emergency phone numbers that you can easily connect to when the need arises. Some of the hotlines you can call for assistance are: North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) hotlines - (02) 3-5000 and (02) 580-8910; Twitter: @NLEXtraffic; Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) hotlines - (0920) 96-SCTEX (72839) (traffic hotline) or (045) 459-0522; Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) hotlines - (02) 825- 400, call and text hotline: 0942-822-8489.

Don’t forget your BLOWBAGETS

Ever heard of BLOWBAGETS? It probably sounds funny, but it is, actually, an acronym for the things you should check before heading out: battery, lights, oil, water, brake, air, gas, engine, tire, and self.

Aside from using water, you should also use a coolant, a fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator. Using the right coolant for your engine will provide the ultimate cooling system protection to avoid overheating, rust, and corrosion.

Whether you’re just driving to work or going on a long trip to the province, try to make it a habit to inspect your car. By checking your BLOWBAGETS, you get to ensure a safe and trouble-free trip.

Set aside money for food and accommodation

You might find yourself spending hours stuck in the madness of traffic jams on your way to the province. Long drives can be quite tricky, so consider preparing filling grubs like sandwiches before heading out. There are also stopovers on the way, so fill your stomach so you won’t be hungry while on the road.

As such, some trips can last for more than 12 hours, which can be exhausting especially for the person driving. Don’t force yourself to traverse the road and try to look into cheap accommodation where you can stay for the night—or day.

Prepare gasoline and auto care needs

Making sure your car is in good condition before any trip is important. Try to take your car to a mechanic if it needs work or maintenance before heading out.  Consider estimating your cost for gas as well so you can already set aside money.

To help you with your auto care needs, PRESTONE will be providing products and services in specific designations so that the safety and security of all travelers will be safeguarded.

From October 31 to November 4, 2018, 6 AM to 6 PM, PRESTONE will be providing mechanic service at SMSK motorists camps in SCTEX Floridablanca Lay-by (Subic bound) and CAVITEX Paranaque toll plaza and Kawit toll plaza.

PRESTONE will also offer brake fluid efficiency testing at SCTEX-Floridablanca Lay-by and CAVITEX-Kawit toll plaza from the said date.

To know more about PRESTONE and the “Safe Trip Mo, Sagot Ko” campaign, visit its website at www.prestone.com.ph.




From October 26, shop the Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale featuring up to 99% off all categories, daily free shipping specials, and over 11 million Shopee Coins to be won from Shopee Shake


Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, announces Jose Mari Chan as its new Christmas Ambassador in line with the return of the biggest Christmas sale of the year, Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale. Affectionately known as the Father of Philippine Christmas music, the singer-songwriter made his debut as the official Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale campaign ambassador at the kickoff event held at Glorietta 2 on October 25, where he made a special appearance and performed Christmas carols to hundreds of mall patrons. As the face of Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, Jose Mari Chan also stars in Shopee’s latest Christmas television commercial that will screen nationwide starting October 26.


Terence Pang, Chief Operating Officer at Shopee, said, “Christmas is the most celebrated holiday in the Philippines, and Filipino shoppers are known to start their holiday shopping earlier. In line with this, we are once again bringing back Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, this time with an even bigger lineup of promotions. We are also honored to have Jose Mari Chan, a household name in the Philippines, join us as our first official Christmas ambassador. Jose Mari Chan embodies the Christmas spirit, and his positive and cheery personality reflects Shopee’s commitment to bringing more joy to shoppers this year-end season.”


“Christmas is a time for us to come together and celebrate. I am thrilled to be joining the Shopee family to spread cheer to all Filipinos this festive season, and to be part of Shopee’s first ever Christmas television commercial. I welcome everyone to join Shopee and I in kickstarting the Christmas season with Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, and look forward to collaborating with Shopee to deliver a series of surprises this Christmas,” said Jose Mari Chan.


In line with the appointment of Jose Mari Chan as Shopee’s Christmas Ambassador is the launch of the Jose Mari Chan Road to Christmas campaign, which will take place from October 26 to December 12. With this, Jose Mari Chan fans can look forward to a series of exciting Shopee activations with him in the weeks ahead, including once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as the opportunity to sing a duet with him, receive a special dedicated song from him, or to meet and spend time with him on his Shopee Wish Bus tour.

The debut of Jose Mari Chan as Shopee’s Christmas ambassador marks the official start of Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale. The first wave of promotions will start from October 26 in the lead up to the 11.11 Big Christmas Sale happening on 11 November. Users can look forward to discounts of up to 99% off all categories, daily free shipping promotions, and an upsized coins pool of over 11 million Shopee Coins to be won from Shopee Shake.



16 themed days leading up to the big sale
Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale will see an expanded lineup of themed days, which were a hit among users during the recent Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day. This time, users can look forward to 16 back-to-back themed days leading up to 11 November, with not to be missed days including:
  • 11.11 Flash Sale Day happening on October 26 and November 6 featuring 9 windows of upsized flash deals, and a bonus Free Shipping with no minimum spend for flash deals
  • 11.11 Vouchers Day happening on October 29, where a wide variety of sitewide and category vouchers will be given away
  • 11.11 Free Shipping Day happening on November 1 where users can enjoy free shipping for a lower minimum spend of only ₱299

11 Million Shopee Coins up for grabs for Shopee Shake
Shopee is bringing back its iconic in-app game, Shopee Shake, this time with an upsized pool of over 11 million Shopee Coins up for grabs. As a special treat this Christmas season, users will also stand a chance to win surprise Shopee Shake prizes, including roundtrip tickets to Australia, Malaysia, and Japan sponsored by Cebu Pacific. Shopee Shake will be happening twice daily, and nine times on 11.11 Shopee Shake Day on November 3 and 11.11 Big Christmas Sale on November 11.


Exclusive perks for Shopee users
On top of thousands of deals from leading local and international brands including Maybelline, P&G, Mossimo, Unilever, Wyeth, Platinum Karaoke, ASUS, and Unisilver Time, and many more; shoppers can also look forward to additional perks1 presented in collaboration with Shopee’s exclusive 11.11 partners, including:
  • SMART customers who subscribe for or renew their SMART plan from October 26 to November 3 will receive Shopee vouchers worth up to 300, which can be used for purchases made until the 11.11 Big Christmas Sale on November 11.
  • Viber users who download the special Shopee Christmas Stickers from October 25 to November 11 will receive Shopee discount vouchers.

“With tons of unbeatable promotions and exciting features launched in response to users’ feedback and demands, Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale is a showcase of Shopee’s continued commitment to delivering the best online shopping experience to consumers in the region, especially during this festive holiday season. We invite everyone to shop together on Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale,” closed Pang.

For more information on the Shopee 11.11 - 12.12 Big Christmas Sale, visit https://shopee.ph/11-11

For more information on the upcoming activations with Jose Mari Chan, visit https://shopee.ph/m/jmc-road-to-christmas

Download the Shopee app for free on the App Store or Google Play Store.






MANILA, October 26, 2018 – In recent time, OPPO, one of the leading brands in the world in the smartphone market, has received the prestigious One to Watch prize, within the TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer Awards ceremony.

This year, OPPO has literally excited the jury, thanks to its innovative technologies and willingness to challenge the norms. Despite a packed marketplace, OPPO is definitely the brand to keep an eye on this year.

Through this prestigious award, OPPO can rightly continue to claim its place as one of the leading brands in the smartphone market. The company is very proud of this recognition, which highlights its commitment to explore cutting edge technologies, through a revolutionary design approach, combining tech-innovation and design with art. This fully reflects OPPO’s values and its pursuit to create the smartphone of the future.









Consumers choose the innovation of the future

While OPPO received its award in London, consumers made more than a choice between several mobile companies. Consumers made the choice of a smarter future. Only 3 months after its official launch in Europe, OPPO is considered one of the leading brands in defining the smartphones of tomorrow. Trendsetter and innovative, OPPO surprised by its boldness with its stealth 3D cameras, this year’s most important technological breakthrough. OPPO has already started to reinvent the rules of the mobile scene, and has now drawn the attention of big names in tech as TechRadar Mobile Choice Consumer.



About the prize

The Mobile Choice Consumer Awards celebrates the best of mobile industry, from handsets to services, brands to retailers for the last 18 years. 2018 is a special edition as Mobile Choice Consumer Awards are joining forces with UK’s leading technology website, TechRadar, to reach a larger voting audience.



One to Watch Award, celebrates companies pushing back tech boundaries and who have a strategic role in defining the mobile landscape of tomorrow.

Thursday, October 25, 2018



Over 200 top international tour operators and travel agents joined PHITEX 2018

More than 200 travel agents and tour operators visited the Philippines to attend one of the biggest and most significant travel trade events in the country – the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) 2018. Organized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), PHITEX 2018 served as a venue for the world’s top travel and tour buyers to meet over 220 local sellers and discuss how best to promote the Philippines as a premier travel destination in Asia.

Held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, PHITEX 2018 is now in its 17th year and aims to contribute more to economic growth and provide more job opportunities for thousands of Filipinos nationwide.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said, “The tourism sector continues to be a key economic driver in the country. It has contributed 12.2% in the country’s GDP in 2017. This has exceeded our target of 10% in 2022 in the national development plan. At the same time, tourism has provided business employment for 5.3 million Filipinos.”




“Last year, PHITEX saw an increase in the number of buyers and first time sellers with business generation computed at Php 2.3 billion, a big leap from 2016 record of Php 1.7 billion,” said TPB Officer-in-Charge Arnold Gonzales.

PHITEX 2018 is slated on the theme, “Tourism is our business: Guarding our Environment, Reliving our Culture.” It kicked off with a pre-tour in Bataan, Laguna, Tagaytay, and Batangas, which featured unique and interesting Philippine culture and heritage.

Highlighting the event was the Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), an exclusive business-to-business appointment between Philippine sellers and international buyers. The foreign travel agents were introduced to the country’s best marketing trends and practices and were able to experience first-hand hand the diversity of the country’s best tourism products and services that they can promote in their home countries. On the other hand, sellers were able to offer globally competitive tour packages to the international market and learn other countries’ trade strategies to apply to their own practices.

More than 30 countries participated in this year’s event. Key buyers include Korea, China, Japan, USA, Canada, and Australia, with new participants from New Zealand. There were also participants from Germany, United Kingdom, Middle East, Russia, Singapore, and Canada, to name a few.

Aside from the pre-tour and the two-day TRAVEX, buyers were also treated to a five-day post tour to main attractions and destinations in the country namely Bicol, Davao, Palawan (Puerto Princesa-El Nido and Coron), Dumaguete-Siquijor-Sumilon and Ilocos. This allowed the buyers to experience first-hand the beauty and warmth of the Philippines.

Seminars on sustainable tourism and culture and tourism were also held for the local sellers. These were conducted by former Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) secretary and known Filipino environmentalist and philanthropist Gina Lopez and Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) president Arsenio “Nick” Lizaso.

Since its foundation in 2001, PHITEX has been continuously putting the Philippines at the forefront of the global tourism market. It has helped promote the country not only as a premier destination for travel but also for trade, lifestyle, entertainment and business opportunities.

For more information, visit www.phitex.ph.






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