The OPPO Find series has long represented the seamless fusion of ambitious technology and sophisticated design. With the OPPO Find X9, this principle evolves even further, introducing a new standard of elegance that feels natural in the hand while delivering remarkable advancements in camera innovation and battery performance.
Redesigned for Ultimate Elegance
The OPPO Find X9 unveils a fresh design perspective, with the camera system now elegantly positioned in the top-left corner. The module is 15% smaller than the previous generation, despite housing larger sensors and more advanced lenses. This new placement not only enhances the phone’s visual harmony but also improves comfort, allowing the user’s finger to rest naturally away from the lenses when holding the device.
This ergonomic refinement is made possible by OPPO’s Floating Stack Architecture, a result of years of engineering designed to maximize vertical space. Multiple components—including the triple cameras, multi-spectrum sensor, laser focus module, and microphone—are carefully integrated beneath the camera housing. The motherboard layout is 13% denser and 10.5mm shorter than before, optimizing internal space and making room for a larger battery.
The high-density OPPO Silicon-Carbon Battery further enhances endurance, offering a 7,025mAh capacity—an increase of 24.7% from the previous generation—while maintaining a slim profile.
Beauty, Inside and Out
Every detail of the Find X9 reflects OPPO’s commitment to craftsmanship. The back cover is crafted using a one-piece glass process that naturally flows into the metal frame, creating a minimalist and unified look.
The Find X9 also features a new-generation flat display with ultra-thin, symmetrical 1.15mm bezels on all sides, creating a near-borderless viewing experience. Precision techniques, such as Low Injection Pressure Overmolding (LIPO) and upgraded 3D display installation, strengthen the screen’s base while improving durability and moisture resistance—ensuring long-lasting clarity and performance.
Available in Titanium Grey, Space Black, and Velvet Red, each finish carries a matte texture that resists fingerprints and adds a refined touch of luxury.
Defense, Refined
Beyond beauty, the OPPO Find X9 is built to endure. Its motherboard uses an ultra-high-strength panel reinforced with 316L steel, creating a solid foundation for everyday durability. The device is protected by Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, enhanced through OPPO’s exclusive chemical ion exchange process, and has earned the Swiss SGS Five-Star Overall Drop Resistance certification.
With IP66, IP68, and IP69 ratings, the Find X9 stands up to dust, water submersion, and even high-pressure, high-temperature water jets up to 80°C. Combined with OPPO’s Splash Touch technology, it remains responsive even in wet conditions.
The OPPO Find X9 redefines balance—merging strength with sophistication, performance with comfort. Slim and effortlessly stylish, it’s designed to fit seamlessly into any lifestyle, ready for both everyday moments and grand adventures alike.
To know more about the OPPO Find X9, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
I was raised hearing the saying “patience is a virtue” constantly, from my childhood to the present. I first played Final Fantasy Tactics in 1997, and its port, The War of the Lions, to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2007. From that point on, I wanted a port to the PC. A lot of (non-)numbered Final Fantasy games had gotten this treatment. After all, many games outside of Nintendo-developed games are (or will be) no longer console-exclusive. Many years later, the NVIDIA leaks named Tactics as a game that would potentially get a remaster or remake. Video game journalist Jason Schreier also confirmed that it was in development in 2024. This made the question turn into when, rather than if, the game would ever come out. An entire childhood and some change later, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicleswould finally come to all current popular platforms. Would the wait be worth it, or would it be just another cash grab for the folks at Square Enix?
Classic VersionEnhanced Version
Investigating why it took so long for the game’s remaster, it was much simpler than I had originally thought: the game’s source code was lost, so this wasn’t a refusal to remaster one of the best (if not the best) non-numbered Final Fantasy games. This isn’t uncommon in the gaming industry, and fans keep the memory of games alive either through emulation or owning physical copies of the game. Thus, the game had to be rebuilt from scratch, which, like anything in life, has its pros and cons.
While the game stays intact for the most part, the War of the Lions content is cut due to the developers wanting a true remaster of the original. You play as Ramza Beoulve, a former nobleman who tries to end a long-standing conflict between the Order of the Northern Sky and the Order of the Southern Sky over their claimants to the Ivalician throne, only to find out that darker forces want to prolong the war for more nefarious purposes. The game is set in the same universe as Final Fantasy XII, except centuries later.
Each generic character can play as one of 20 jobs: Squire (the starter class for many of the physical classes), Chemist (the starter class for many of the magical classes), Knight, Archer, White Mage, Black Mage, Monk, Thief, Mystic, Time Mage, Geomancer, Dragoon, Orator, Summoner, Samurai, Ninja, Arithmetician, Dancer, Bard, and Mime. Some story characters, instead of being a Squire or Chemist, come with their own unique class and abilities.
What is most fun about the game is the endless experimentation you can do with your characters. Each character has a primary job skill, a secondary job skill, a reaction skill, a support skill, and a movement skill. Out of the classes previously mentioned, some are far more useful than others, namely the Dragoon’s Ignore Elevation movement skill, which allows you to scale any elevation regardless of your Jump statistic, or the Chemist’s Auto-Potion, which gives you a chance (tied to your Brave statistic) to heal yourself automatically with Potions in your inventory, and the Ninja’s Dual Wield, which allows you to attack twice in one turn (for best results, equip this on a Monk due to their innate high physical attack and no need to use a weapon). Some Support abilities allow you to equip weapons regardless of job, poach monsters for rare and powerful items, boost job points (JP) gained, physical and magic attack, and more.
A system shrouded in mystery was the Zodiac system, comprising all the Zodiac signs we are familiar with in real life. The remaster gives it clarity, as certain Zodiac signs and genders will have lower or higher compatibility with one another, making your attacks and healing weaker or stronger. For instance, you can set Ramza’s birthday. I always use my own, which is within Virgo. This gives me a significant advantage against bosses. However, untangling this complex system and min-maxing can be left to a quick Google search.
One of my favorite changes is full voice acting, but many people will have to look up the Medieval English terms to understand them. Some of the best quality of life (QoL) changes include a more unified layout for seeing your turns and enemy turns up front, as well as being able to save between battles if there were consecutive ones (one story battle chain in particular required immense preparations, so being able to save is a HUGE help). The music is also very moving and changes to match scenes in the story, making you feel the plight of the characters. One of the few complaints I have is that if you’re a lore junkie like myself, you have to intentionally prolong battles or bring certain party members to certain story battles to get more lore out of the game.
While a very good remaster, I would love for the War of the Lions content to return as DLC. As this was one of the few popular Final Fantasy games not to be formally released on all platforms, it should further signal a movement towards turn-based combat that we have seen with Expedition 33 and other games in the genre in recent years.
Developer: Square Enix Publisher: Square Enix Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
Words by Jose Alvarez Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 Issue No. 4
This November, Philips Home Access will launch the DDL902-MFVP-11HWS smart door lock— the most advanced model by Philips Smart Lock, a name synonymous with high-quality home security systems, innovation, and elegant design.
DDL902-MFVP-11HWS smart door lock will be launched EXCLUSIVELY on Philips Home Access Flagship Store in Lazada. Get up to PHP25,000 worth of freebies when you purchase during 11.11. There are only limited quantities, so make sure to add to your cart and check out early.
Philips showcases the DDL902-MFVP-11HWS smart door lock.
The DDL902-MFVP-11HWS 9000 series smart door lock packs three cameras to let homeowners check visitors, deliveries, and indoor activity from every angle, anytime from the convenience of their smartphone.
Philips demos the multi-camera feature of their smart lock.
It also features touchless 3D live face and palm vein recognition unlocking capabilities that make the product precise and secure, overcoming issues such as shallow fingerprints and dry fingers. For tighter security, homeowners can also use other methods to secure this smart door lock, such as password/PIN Code, card/key tag, and a mechanical key. Made of zinc and aluminum alloys, the lock features a push-pull handle and a hidden fingerprint sensor and comes in black obsidian for an elegant look and design.
The DDL902-MFVP-11HWS 9000 series smart door lock is the perfect smart lock for your main doors. In line with Philips’s pledge to create sustainable products, this smart door lock is equipped with an LI-polymer that can power the smart door lock for up to 3 months.
Philips highlights the PalmVerify feature of their Lazada-exclusive smart lock.
This product launch on Lazada highlights Philips Smart Home’s commitment to make shopping for top-of-the-line smart home products more convenient and accessible for Filipino homeowners, families, and online shopping enthusiasts as they anticipate the 11.11 sale in the run up to Christmas holidays gift-giving spree.
Be an early bird and shop around to enjoy up to 50% off on best-selling products, as well as savings of up to PHP15,000 when you buy from the store!
We needed to take up some plants to our garden plot in Tagaytay, so we asked Ford for a lendout of its Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo EcoBoost 4×4 10AT. It seemed like a good chance to see how this performance pickup behaves in the kind of conditions most owners actually face. The trip would cover city traffic, long stretches of highway, winding provincial roads, and a few steep climbs toward the ridge.
It was typhoon season, and the rain had been on and off for days. The morning began with a steady drizzle. By afternoon, it had turned into a full monsoon on the way home, with visibility dropping to near zero in some stretches.
Through all of that, the Raptor performed as if the weather hardly mattered. It was a weekend errand that became an ideal test of comfort, traction, and everyday capability.
Design – 4 / 5
The Raptor’s design leaves no room for doubt about its purpose. The wide body, muscular lines, and bold “FORD” grille make it instantly recognizable. Its 17-inch all-terrain tires and raised stance give it presence. This is a truck that looks ready for a dirt trail, but does not feel out of place parked at a roadside café.
Inside, Ford has struck a good balance between toughness and comfort. The front seats are firm and supportive, with just the right amount of bolstering for long drives. The orange stitching, flat-bottom steering wheel, and paddle shifters hint at its sporty character without going overboard. The 12-inch touchscreen is bright and responsive, and Ford’s infotainment system paired quickly with my iPhone.
What impressed me most was how quiet the cabin stayed during the drive. Even when the rain was coming down hard, road noise remained low. The wipers, defoggers, and cameras all worked well together to maintain visibility. The only real drawback is size. The Raptor feels wide on provincial roads and requires some patience in tight parking areas, but that’s to be expected for a vehicle of this size.
Under the hood is where the Raptor’s personality truly shows. The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine produces 397PS and 583Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system. On the highway, power delivery is smooth and confident, and the gearbox adapts well whether you are cruising or overtaking on an incline.
Hardware – 4.5 / 5
The reinforced ladder frame gives it a solid feel on any surface. Ford used stronger steel in key areas to improve rigidity, which allows the suspension to do its work properly. The FOX Live Valve 2.5-inch dampers are among the best in this segment. They constantly adjust damping to road conditions, helping the truck remain composed on everything from concrete to loose gravel.
The Terrain Management System gives you seven drive modes: Normal, Sport, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, Baja, and Tow/Haul.
Braking performance is excellent for a vehicle of this size. Large ventilated discs give consistent stopping power even in wet conditions. Steering remains direct and well weighted, and body roll is minimal for a pickup this tall.
Ground clearance is 265 millimeters, and the Raptor can wade through 850 millimeters of water. Its approach and departure angles make it capable of tackling steep driveways or knee-deep floods. These numbers are reassuring for anyone driving in the Philippines during the monsoon.
Overall, the hardware feels cohesive and well engineered. It is not just about brute strength but about control and refinement.
User Experience – 4 / 5
What I like most about the Raptor is how easy it is to drive. It looks intimidating, but once you settle behind the wheel, it feels natural. The steering is light at slow speeds and firms up nicely on the highway. The ride is firm but not harsh, and the seating position gives you a clear, commanding view of the road ahead.
The climb to Tagaytay was uneventful in the best way possible. Power came smoothly, and overtaking slower traffic on the uphill sections was effortless. The truck never felt strained, even with a bed loaded with plants and other stuff.
On the drive home, the light drizzle turned into a serious downpour. Visibility dropped, and water began to pool on the highway. The Raptor remained sure-footed through standing water and crosswinds. The traction control worked silently, and the suspension kept the truck steady even on sections where the road surface was uneven.
What stood out was the sense of control. Many large pickups feel nervous in heavy rain, but the Raptor stayed calm. The brakes were predictable, the wipers and defoggers kept up, and the cabin remained dry and quiet. It was one of those drives where you realize how much thought went into every system working together.
During the slow crawl through traffic near Alabang, the truck remained comfortable. The adaptive suspension kept the ride steady, and the seats were supportive enough that I didn’t feel tired after several hours behind the wheel. The B&O sound system added a touch of comfort, and the dual-zone climate control worked efficiently.
The Raptor might look like a pure performance truck, but it behaves like a well-rounded vehicle you could use every day if you wanted to.
Value – 3.5 / 5
Priced at PHP2,799,000, the top-spec Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo EcoBoost 4×4 10AT is positioned at the higher end of the pickup market, and that is justified by what it offers. It is not meant for buyers who only need a workhorse. It is for those who value both capability and refinement.
It can haul, climb, and cross rough ground, yet it still feels composed and comfortable on the highway. Ford’s five-year warranty and wide service network make ownership easier, especially for those who use their vehicles actively. Fuel consumption and size are the main trade-offs, but in exchange, you get power, safety, and engineering that inspire confidence.
If you spend most of your time in the city, the Raptor might be more truck than you need. But for those who enjoy driving, who often take trips outside the metro, or who simply appreciate a machine built to a higher standard, it makes perfect sense.
Bottomline
The Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0 L V6 Twin Turbo EcoBoost 4×4 10AT is a capable, well-balanced pickup that does not overpromise. It is powerful and surefooted but also easy to drive and comfortable enough for long trips.
It is large and it uses fuel generously, but those are small prices to pay for its composure, strength, and reliability. For drivers who want something that can do real work and still feel refined behind the wheel, the Raptor delivers exactly that.
Reviewed by Arnel Doria. Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 Issue 5.
For Filipino entrepreneurs, finding the right business partner can mean the difference between modest success and remarkable growth. That’s exactly what Powerhouse Tools offers its franchisees: a partnership built on quality products, reliable support, and a proven system that has grown into a nationwide network.
Three entrepreneurs exemplify what’s possible when ambition meets the right partnership: Lester Yee, who saw potential in provincial hardware markets; Katrina Cambe, who learned that success is built on relationships, and lastly, Anabel Hilario who pioneered the opening of Powerhouse’s first store in 2021.
Scaling Powerhouse across provincial markets
Lester Yee brought serious credentials to Powerhouse Tools when he joined three years ago. As president of the Esprutingkle Group of Companies, he oversees more than 100 businesses spanning multiple franchise brands. His portfolio includes 7-Eleven, Shakey’s, Caltex stations, Max’s Restaurant, and investments in hotels and resorts.
An Antique native, Yee recognized early that rural communities have strong spending power but limited access to product variety. When Powerhouse Tools presented its franchise opportunity, he saw potential immediately. A pioneer in power tools franchising in the Philippines, Powerhouse Tools could fill a crucial gap in provincial hardware markets. Operating costs are lower outside major cities, the competition less intense, and the demand for quality hardware strong.
His objective was also to stimulate provincial economies by creating business and employment opportunities while helping residents “beautify or improve their homes.”
In three years, Yee established four Powerhouse stores across key provincial locations: two branches in Antique (Culasi and San Jose); one in Ipil, Zamboanga; and another in Isabela, Basilan.
Yee’s CPA background proved invaluable for financial literacy, inventory control, and cash flow management. But financial acumen alone doesn’t guarantee success—what sealed his confidence in Powerhouse was the support system. “The franchise group of Powerhouse, they are really hands-on. Even the owners are very hands-on. They make sure that whatever you invest, you can recover eventually in the period that they set as a standard,” Yee said.
Yee’s success has fueled aggressive expansion plans. To accommodate Powerhouse’s growing product lines, Yee expanded his branches by 100 square meters. To ensure consistent product availability for fast-moving items, he’s planning to build a warehouse. Three to four more Powerhouse stores are also in development for Siargao, Nueva Vizcaya, and Coron, Palawan. His vision is to open as many stores as possible, eventually placing a Powerhouse in every municipality.
Franchisee Katrina Cambe oversees her Bulacan and Fairview branches with a hands-on approach to customer service and product expertise.
Building customer relationships
Katrina Cambe came to Powerhouse Tools with a construction business background. When the pandemic hit in 2020, she watched food franchise investments struggle or close. The experience pushed her toward a more stable sector.
Hardware and power tools fit perfectly—the industry is rooted in ongoing demand. Cambe ventured into the Powerhouse franchise in 2023, managing branches in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, and East Fairview.
What surprised her most wasn’t the product line or profit margins, but the nature of the business itself. “It is not just a retail business, it’s also a relationship business,” Cambe said.
For instance, when customers seek advice about which product fits their needs, Cambe’s team conducts product demonstrations. Cambe notes that aside from the quality products, customers appreciate the service and guidance.
Cambe’s team’s hands-on approach extends to personally visiting construction sites, metal shops, and woodworking areas to offer demos and seek clients. They also handle product deliveries themselves. “Nothing beats the face-to-face transaction,” Cambe emphasized.
This method works. Customers share that they view Powerhouse Tools as a one-stop shop. Cambe also recounts an experience with an air conditioning contractor who, after purchasing a welding machine, returned later with referrals—a perfect example of how good service builds strong relationships and drives repeat business.
Cambe is now preparing to expand to a new location in San Jose Del Monte, about a drive away from East Fairview. She’s confident that her relationship-centered approach, combined with Powerhouse’s superior after-sales service, will continue to differentiate her stores from local competitors.
Powerhouse’s first franchisee Anabel Hilario proudly stands by the brand she helped pioneer, now with six thriving branches nationwide.
The first Powerhouse store owner
If anyone embodies the Powerhouse Tools success story of starting from scratch, it’s Anabel Hilario, the very first franchisee to open a Powerhouse Tools store.
Hilario’s entrepreneurial journey began humbly in Raon, Quiapo District—a bustling hub known for its power tools and electrical supply shops. She and her family initially started as sidewalk vendors selling street food before shifting to power tools and welding machines in a bangketa in Raon. Later, someone offered them a space inside a store, marking their transition from small-scale vending to formal retail. She went on to launch AC Hilario Enterprises, which now has over nine hardware branches across Metro Manila, Laguna, Bulacan, Batangas, and Pangasinan.
Hilario’s years of experience running her own hardware stores gave her deep insight into customer needs, inventory management, and supplier relations—knowledge that proved invaluable when Powerhouse Tools began developing its franchise model. As its first franchise partner, she helped pilot the concept, offering on-the-ground feedback that refined store operations and product mix. Her pioneering store not only validated the business model but also became a blueprint for future franchisees.
The first Powerhouse store opened in September 2021 in Raon. Since that pioneering store, Hilario has expanded to five other branches: Sangandaan in Quezon City; Biñan; Baliuag; JP Laurel in Lipa, Batangas; and AJC in Alaminos, Pangasinan.
Hilario’s operation rests on three pillars: product quality, comprehensive after-sales service, and genuine customer relationships. These allowed her business to weather the difficult pandemic period and emerge stronger.
She admires the company’s strategic decision to expand through partnerships rather than company-owned outlets. “Hindi nila kinalaban ang sarili nila,” she notes. (They don’t compete against themselves.) This partnership-first model allows franchisees like Hilario to grow without worrying about internal competition.
The Powerhouse franchise system has been instrumental to her success: merchandising support, fabrication assistance, expense management guidance, and technical service backup. This comprehensive support structure enabled her to scale efficiently while maintaining consistent quality across all locations, making her an integral partner in the brand’s nationwide expansion.
What sets the Powerhouse partnership apart
Lester Yee, Katrina Cambe, and Anabel Hilario’s stories show that Powerhouse Tools doesn’t just sell franchises; it also builds partnerships.
The brand supports multi-brand franchise operators entering provincial markets, helps construction professionals transition into retail, and enables pioneering entrepreneurs to scale. The brand ensures franchisees have everything they need—from physical tools to business systems—to succeed.
As Powerhouse Tools continues its nationwide expansion, the company invites aspiring entrepreneurs to join its growing network of partners—empowering more Filipinos to build thriving hardware businesses that uplift their local communities.
In a continued effort to champion technical education and nurture the next generation of Filipino automotive professionals, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) cemented a partnership with Valenzuela City Technological College (ValTech) to enhance the school’s automotive training programs. As part of this collaboration, IPC donated vehicles, critical automotive components, and workshop tools, alongside launching a Diesel Technology Training Program for ValTech students.
This collaboration was initiated by Isuzu INTECO, IPC’s long-time dealer principals handling Valenzuela market, which actively advocated for the partnership with ValTech to support local talent development.
Building on IPC’s earlier collaborations with TESDA training centers in Tacloban and Biñan, expanding the company’s education-driven outreach to northern Metro Manila. Through this initiative, IPC strengthens its advocacy for accessible, high-quality technical education—an embodiment of its core values of Responsibility to Society and Country.
“At Isuzu, we believe that shaping the future of the automotive industry begins with shaping the people behind it. By supporting ValTech, we’re investing in the next generation of skilled technicians—individuals who will uphold the same standards of quality and reliability that our customers expect from Isuzu. Helping develop their potential is also our way of giving back to the communities that continue to support us,” said IPC president Mikio Tsukui.
Strengthening ValTech’s Automotive Program
During the turnover ceremony, IPC formally handed over several vital training tools and training resources for ValTech’s Automotive Servicing Course and its Technical Vocational Teacher Education program in Automotive Technology. Among the key items donated were one Isuzu D-MAX 4×2 LS AT and one Isuzu Crosswind XL MT, which will allow students to conduct hands-on diagnostic, maintenance, and repair exercises using real vehicles rather than simulators.
IPC also provided advanced mechanical assemblies, including an MJT7S and JR405 Transmission Assembly, to help students understand the fundamentals of drivetrain systems. The 4JK1-TC Engine Assembly, a turbocharged diesel engine, will serve as a teaching model for engine operations. Meanwhile, the RZ4E Cut-Away Engine exposes the internal components and fluid paths of an engine. These components provide learners with more visual and tactile learning modalities.
To complete the setup of ValTech’s training workshop, IPC also donated a tire changer, wheel balancer, and tool balancer—equipment essential for teaching wheel alignment, tire servicing, and tool handling safety, ensuring students master the day-to-day procedures of an automotive technician’s work.
These resources bolster ValTech’s “Learning Factory” model, a practice-based teaching method that simulates real industry settings to immerse students in the hands-on processes and problem-solving required in professional automotive service operations.
“We are deeply grateful to Isuzu Philippines for this generous support. These vehicles and tools will transform the way our students learn—bridging theory and practice and preparing them to step confidently into the workforce. More than the equipment, it’s the trust and partnership that inspire us to continue delivering quality, accessible education to the people of Valenzuela,” shared ValTech President Dr. Yolanda Gadon.
Investing in Future Talent
In addition to the donation, IPC will soon launch a Diesel Technology Training Program for 100 selected ValTech students. Scheduled for the first half of 2026, the program includes four days of in-class learning followed by a plant visit to Isuzu Philippines’ facility—providing a full-circle perspective on both technical theory and real-world application.
As a local government college, ValTech provides free technical education to high school graduates, out-of-school youth, and unemployed adults. The institution has also committed to prioritizing IPC and its dealership network when placing future graduates—strengthening the pipeline of skilled professionals entering the automotive workforce.
Driving Sustainable Development Through Education
This initiative is part of IPC’s broader mission to contribute meaningfully to society through championing education and community development. With the active involvement of Isuzu INTECO, IPC continues to empower communities and develop future-ready professionals—starting with Valenzuela.
With these initiatives, Isuzu Philippines Corporation proudly reaffirms its commitment as “Your Responsible Partner”—driving progress, empowering people, and helping shape a better tomorrow.
You’ve probably seen them glide past you in Metro Manila traffic — bright cyan Green GSM taxis, or the sleek new VinFast VF 3s cruising quietly through EDSA. Maybe you’ve even ridden in one and thought, “This feels good.” That smooth, silent acceleration can convince anyone that the future has arrived.
If you’re tempted to make the switch yourself, pause and take a quick check. Buying your first electric vehicle (EV) is exciting, but it’s also a decision that deserves a little thought. Here are seven simple questions to ask before taking the leap, so your first electric experience is smooth, practical, and built for how you move.
1. How far do you really drive each week?
Before comparing price tags, think about your actual routine. Do you mostly move around Makati and BGC, or take weekend trips to Tagaytay or Batangas?
Your daily distance determines what kind of EV fits your lifestyle. For city commutes and short drives, compact models like the VinFast VF 5 or VF 6 are ideal. The VF 5’s 326km range covers errands and office runs with ease, while the VF 6 stretches to 480km, perfect for quick escapes beyond the metro.
If you’re often on expressways or long provincial drives, the VinFast VF 7 and its nearly 500km range will serve you better. It’s roomy, refined, and ready for road trips.
2. What’s inside the battery that powers it all?
The battery is your EV’s heart. It determines how far you can go and how long your car lasts.
VinFast uses LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries in models like the VF 6 and VF 7, known for their safety, stability, and resistance to overheating in tropical climates. Backed by a 10-year or 200,000km warranty, they give peace of mind that your investment is built to last.
3. Where can you charge — and how easy is it?
Good news: charging is no longer a mystery. More public stations are appearing in malls, offices, and expressways across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Before you buy, find out what type of connector your car uses and where the nearest stations are. If you live in a condo, check management policies for home charger installations. Many new EV owners opt for a Level 2 wall charger, which fills the battery overnight.
To make charging stress-free, VinFast also offers a three-year free charging program through V-Green, giving owners more freedom to explore without range anxiety.
4. How safe is your EV?
Safety should never be optional. Even the compact VinFast VF 3 includes essentials like ABS, hill-start assist, and airbags. The VF 5, VF 6, and VF 7 add blind-spot warnings, rear cross-traffic alerts, and multiple airbags for added confidence.
These systems work quietly to protect you in city traffic and long drives alike. Before signing, review crash-test results, stability control, and driver-assistance features because every journey deserves peace of mind.
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5. Does it feel as good as it looks?
Specs can look impressive, but a test drive reveals everything. Try out the heads-up display that projects your speed onto the windshield, or explore smart features like voice assistants and mobile app controls that let you pre-cool the cabin or check your battery from your phone.
These little details, such as comfort, quiet, tech integration, are what make the switch to electric truly satisfying.
6. Who’s got your back after you buy?
After-sales support matters just as much as specs. Ask where the nearest service centers are and whether parts are stocked locally.
VinFast continues to expand its after-sales network through partners like Motech and JIGA, ensuring maintenance and repairs are convenient. Roadside assistance and over-the-air software updates also make ownership easier — your car can literally upgrade itself overnight.
7. Is it really worth it?
Time to crunch the numbers. A full home charge typically costs around PHP200–PHP300, while a gas fill-up can easily top PHP1,000. Add fewer maintenance costs, tax incentives, and lower registration fees, and the long-term savings are hard to ignore.
As VF 3 owner Paul Reyes puts it after 10,000 kilometers on the road: “I’ve really been enjoying the experience. I’m never switching back to gasoline or diesel again.”
Once you’ve answered these questions, that quiet glide through traffic becomes your new normal. Soon, you won’t just be watching EVs zip by. You’ll be one of the confident drivers shaping the electric future of the Philippines.
As part of its commitment to make digital banking more accessible to Filipinos, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its digital wallet VYBE, has partnered with Pay&Go to allow users to cash in for free at over 3,000 kiosks nationwide.
The partnership supports BPI’s broader vision of advancing digital inclusion. Through VYBE, Filipinos—even those without a bank account—can easily sign up and begin their digital financial journey.
“True digital transformation means extending real value to the underserved. Our partnership with Pay&Go brings us closer to communities. By making it easier — and free — to cash in to VYBE, we’re helping more Filipinos participate in the digital economy,” said Alex Seminiano, BPI chief technology officer.
BPI’s drive for digital inclusion comes at a pivotal moment, as many Filipinos still face barriers to accessing financial services. With challenges such as limited reach, documentary requirements, and trust issues, many remain outside the formal banking system. VYBE aims to change that—empowering more Filipinos to take the first step in their digital financial journey and experience the benefits of secure, convenient, and inclusive banking. Even without a BPI bank account, VYBE users can enjoy the following features:
Send and receive money
Pay bills and buy load
Earn reward points for eligible transactions
With Pay&Go’s nationwide footprint, even users in remote or underbanked areas can now cash in to their VYBE wallets more conveniently — with no transaction fees.
Whether you’re a student, gig worker, or small business owner, VYBE offers a fast and easy way to go cashless, backed by the security and trust of one of the country’s most established banks.
Topping up a VYBE wallet is easy through Pay&Go kiosks.
“Digital banking must serve not only the tech-savvy but also the overlooked. As we expand VYBE’s access through Pay&Go, we are building a more inclusive financial landscape where every Filipino has the tools to move forward,” said Eric Faustino, BPI head of digital partnerships and ecosystem.
Ultrahuman, a global leader in wearable health technology, recently launched its new brushed rose gold finish for the Ultrahuman Ring AIR in the Philippines. It also rolled out the Cycle & Ovulation Pro feature—the world’s most accurate cycle tracking system on a smart ring.
The Ultrahuman Ring AIR, including the latest Brushed Rose Gold finish, is available for PHP22,500. Filipinos can enjoy 15% off during the 11.11 sale from November 10 to 23, 2025, at Digital Walker and Open Source stores nationwide, and online via Shopee and Lazada.
New color: Brushed Rose Gold
The Brushed Rose Gold finish combines refined craftsmanship with performance-driven design. Made from aerospace-grade titanium and perfected through a vertical brushing process, it brings understated luxury to the world’s lightest smart ring—built for 24/7 comfort and unmatched durability.
It joins the Matte Black, Aster Black, Bionic Gold, and Space Silver finishes, expanding the Ultrahuman Ring AIR range to suit every personal style.
The world’s most accurate cycle tracking smart ring
The Cycle & Ovulation Pro PowerPlug builds on the scientifically validated OvuSense™ platform acquired through Ultrahuman’s viO HealthTech acquisition. It applies clinical-grade accuracy to consumer wellness, offering:
Ovulation confirmation with >90% accuracy validated against hormonal markers¹
Cycle Flags™ that highlight variations such as early or late ovulation and luteal-phase changes
Symptom and lifestyle tagging to reveal how mood, stress, and sleep interact with hormonal shifts
Broad compatibility across all cycle types, providing reliable insights for women with non-standard or irregular patterns
Actionable health insights
The Ultrahuman Ring AIR delivers science-backed insights across every pillar of wellness:
Sleep recovery and stress – Monitor sleep quality, HRV, and resting heart rate to understand how the body restores overnight. Identify what’s disrupting rest, from late-night meals to ambient temperature—and follow personalized guidance to improve recovery.
Circadian rhythm alignment – Learn how light, temperature, and movement affect the internal clock. The Circadian Alignment PowerPlug helps schedule wind-down and wake-up routines for sustained energy and a better mood.
Caffeine window – Find the optimal caffeine window based on the body clock and recovery state. Log beverages and get personal caffeine cut-off recommendations to protect deep sleep.
Cycle and ovulation – Get personalized cycle insights and biomarker-based tracking. Cycle & Ovulation Pro offers >90% accuracy for ovulation confirmation.¹ Adapted from the OvuSense™ medical-grade algorithm,² it helps women recognize subtle hormonal patterns and stay in tune with their bodies, even for non-textbook cycles.
4 to 6 days of battery life – Forget nightly charging. With up to six days on a single charge, the Ring AIR tracks continuously and syncs automatically whenever it’s worn.
Subscription-free and data-secure – Ultrahuman ensures health data remains user-owned. All insights and historical trends are accessible without a mandatory subscription.
With this launch and the 11.11 sale, Ultrahuman reinforces its commitment to helping Filipinos optimize their health through data-driven insights, exceptional design, and affordable innovation.
Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is reinforcing its multi-pathway approach in the country by offering customers the option to go full electric with its first-ever Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), the all-new bZ4X.
With its radical design, advanced suite of features, and a build quality that’s trusted by millions of Toyota customers worldwide, the bZ4X empowers customers to make the fearless leap forward toward a carbon-neutral lifestyle.
“Our multi-pathway approach is all about giving customers multiple options. I hope more Filipinos can join us in our movement toward carbon neutrality with the all-new bZ4X,” shared TMP president Masando Hashimoto.
The all-new bZ4X will come in the Emotional Red, Precious Metal, Platinum White Pearl Mica, and Dark Blue Mica colorways. Price will start at PHP2,699,000. More information available on https://www.toyota.com.ph/bz4x
vivo is turning up the excitement for this year’s Shopee 11.11 sale with the vivo V60 Lite. Shoppers can score exclusive launch-day perks and discounts of up to PHP3,500 off on November 10, 8pm, making this the best time to upgrade to vivo’s newest stylish and powerful smartphone.
Shopee exclusive from November 10 to 17
From November 10, 8pm to November 17, the vivo V60 Lite will be available on Shopee with special launch offers.
Early buyers can get free vivo Buds from November 10, 8pm until November 11, and enjoy a Midnight Flash Price at 12am on November 11 with up to PHP3,500 discount.
Those who miss the flash sale can still take advantage of up to PHP2,000 off throughout the promo period, along with free shipping on all orders.
Why vivo V60 Lite is worth the buy
Built for nonstop fun, the vivo V60 Lite is designed to handle gaming, entertainment, and everyday multitasking effortlessly. It runs on a 4nm MediaTek Dimensity 7360-Turbo processor, ensuring smooth and responsive performance. The phone features a 6.77-inch 120Hz AMOLED display that delivers vibrant colors and ultra-fluid motion, making it perfect for streaming and mobile gaming.
Powering the experience is a 6500mAh BlueVolt battery supported by 90W FlashCharge technology, allowing users to enjoy longer hours of play and entertainment without worrying about running out of juice. It also supports bypass charging, which keeps the device cool during intense gaming sessions, and an Ultra Game Mode that optimizes performance for an even more immersive experience. Completing the entertainment setup is a 400% volume stereo speaker that delivers clear and powerful sound.
Photography enthusiasts will also love the 50MP Sony IMX882 main camera, which captures detailed portraits with impressive clarity. The V60 Lite also features the AI Four Season Portrait mode, allowing users to creatively transform their backgrounds to match different seasons – a fun, studio-quality feature also found in vivo’s higher-end models like the vivo V60 and X200 FE.
Don’t miss out
The vivo V60 Lite will officially be available on Shopee starting November 10 at 8pm, just in time for the Shopee 11.11 sale. With freebies, discounts of up to PHP3,500, and free shipping, this is the perfect opportunity to upgrade to vivo’s newest stylish and performance-packed smartphone.
Visit the vivo official store on Shopee and grab your vivo V60 Lite. Learn more about the phone on the vivo website.
Anime and subscription gaming are exploding in popularity, and Crunchyroll has fused them together in one curated experience. Since launching in November 2023 as a Crunchyroll Mega and Ultimate Fan benefit, Crunchyroll Game Vault has added hundreds of gameplay hours to the world’s largest streaming library of anime. Today, it is a focused collection of anime and anime-inspired games that includes indie darlings, niche gems and more.
Here’s Crunchyroll Game Vault by the numbers:
Exclusive titles: 75
Estimated Value: USD1200+
Estimated Gameplay Hours: 500+
Average Metacritic: 75
In-app ads and purchases: 0
Anime-Game Experiences!
Crunchyroll Game Vault is an anime-focused gaming experience that builds upon the brand’s extensive streaming catalog, allowing fans to deepen their anime fandom. Hand-picked gems such as the cozy slice-of-life adventure game Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town,cult horror classic Corpse Party,and more gives fans the opportunity to explore the source material behind fan favorite anime.Newly localized titlessuch as Classroom of the Elite – Merge Puzzle Special Exam – debuted outside of Japan completely revamped without microtransactions.
New Ports Expand Mobile Gaming
Of Crunchyroll Game Vault’s 75 titles, 50 of them launched as brand-new ports, marking a key opportunity for developers to reach new platforms and audiences as well as contribute to new experiences on-the-go. The newly released titles that hit the App Store and Google Play for the first time include, Pocket Gamer GOTY contender Shogun Showdown and turn-based tactical RPG Metal Slug Tactics.
Updated Fan Favorites
Crunchyroll collaborated with acclaimed developers to bring existing mobile titles to Game Vault fully updated and expanded. Crypt of the NecroDancer relaunched on mobile fully optimized for modern mobile devices and complete with content previously unavailable on the platform, including multiplayer. The ultimate arcade boxing experience Thunder Ray relaunched on mobile with new and improved touch screen controls as well as full support for game controllers.
The result is a curated collection that balances fresh mobile experiences with revitalized classics.
Crunchyroll Game Vault Library Highlights
Eternights — A unique blend of dating and action where players can explore a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger, love, and adventure.
Crypt of the Necrodancer— The award-winning roguelike rhythm game and its AMPLIFIED prequel DLC, fully updated for modern devices.
Metal Slug Tactics— The famed action series with a bold new twist: turn-based tactical combat!
Shogun Showdown — A tactical turn-based roguelike set in a beautifully stylized world inspired by feudal Japan.
Two Strikes — A stylish 2D samurai fighting game where every move counts. With a single well-timed strike, defeat your opponent—or fall by their blade.
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth— A timeless JRPG masterpiece. As a valkyrie of Asgard, recruit fallen heroes and battle for the fate of the realms.
Kawaii Kitchen — A super cute cooking game about running your own burger shop.
River City Girls — A modern twist on the legendary series. Keep the action going with River City Girls 2—also available on Crunchyroll Game Vault.
Crunchyroll Game Vault is always growing. Alongside a regular seasonal release schedule of anime and anime-inspired mobile titles, players can expect even bigger premium mobile adventures to land in the coming months:
Lost Hellden — The French-developed JRPG featuring a gorgeous hand-painted 3D art style by renowned illustrator Takeshi Oga and music by celebrated composer Hitoshi Sakimoto set to launch on PC and Console will make its mobile debut on Crunchyroll Game Vault.
Beyblade X Xone—based on the action-packed Xtreme Battle (don’t miss the anime on Crunchyroll!)
How To Access Crunchyroll Game Vault
Available to play with no ads or in-app purchases, Crunchyroll Game Vault’s bastion of niche gems, off-beat visual novels and action-packed shounen adventures for anime fans can be found in the App Store, Google Play, and Crunchyroll on mobile in more than 200 countries and territories.
New and existing fans can sign up or upgrade to a Crunchyroll Mega or Ultimate Fan membership to nab their key to the vault and enjoy games alongside over 25,000 hours of anime.
Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is ushering in the Christmas season by giving back to its subscribers through the exciting Smart Holideals raffle promo.
Open to all new and existing Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers from October 17 to December 31, 2025, the Smart Holideals promo gives lucky customers a chance to win up to PHP5-million in the life-changing grand raffle draw.
Join by texting RAFFLE to 5858
To join, subscribers simply need to text RAFFLE to 5858. Once successfully registered, they can start earning and racking up raffle entries based on their Smart transactions.
Smart Prepaid subscribers will earn raffle entries for every data offer they avail.
Meanwhile, Smart Postpaid subscribers will earn raffle entries for every data add-on or booster purchased. New and renewing Smart Postpaid subscribers who opt in to the raffle promo between October 17 and December 31, 2025, will automatically get bonus raffle entries. New and renewing Plan 599 to 799 subscribers will receive 10 raffle entries, while new and renewing subscribers of Plan 999 and higher will get 15 raffle entries.
Be a Smart Holideals millionaire
From October 17, 2025, to January 6, 2026, three winners of PHP30,000 will be drawn each week. All raffle points earned during the raffle promo period will also accumulate for the grand draw on January 6, 2026, where one winner will take home PHP1-million, another will win PHP3-million, and one will become PHP5-million richer.
Subscribers can win in multiple weekly draws and still qualify for the grand draw, but can only win once per draw date.
Winners will be announced on Smart’s official accounts and contacted and validated via call-out by an authorized Smart representative through official Smart numbers: 7777 or *888.
Don’t miss your chance to become one of this season’s Smart Holideals millionaires! Register by texting RAFFLE to 5858 or switch now to Smart and start earning raffle entries for a shot at life-changing prizes.
For updates and announcements, click https://smart.com.ph/Pages/holideals2025 or follow Smart’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
Adventure met adrenaline as Gravelton PH staged its most-awaited Gravelton Clark 2025 last October 18 to 19 at Filinvest Mimosa Plus Leisure City, Clark, Pampanga. Marking its fourth season, the country’s leading gravel race brought together cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts for a thrilling two-day experience across Central Luzon’s rugged terrains.
Building a bold partnership and carving their place in the heart of the gravel community, Ford Philippines backed the event by deploying three Ford Ranger pickup trucks as official track and logistics vehicles. The Ford Ranger trucks roamed the course to assist race marshals, provide support to riders, and ensure seamless coordination and safety across challenging routes.
“This year, Gravelton Clark 2025 is anchored on the theme ‘Forged in Flame, Carved in Ice’ representing the dual forces that shape the gravel community: fierce in competition, yet chill in celebration,” said Ritchie Santayana, group category director of Gruppo Innovare Corp (Specialized Philippines), the Gravelton PH organizer. “We’re pushing the limits on and off the trail to give riders a full-throttle gravel racing experience while bringing the entire community closer together.”
“Ford Group Philippines is thrilled to partner with Gravelton PH as our brand aims to support activities that are geared to promote passion, grit, and excellence,” said Mark Parulan, marketing director, Ford Philippines. “Our Ford Ranger was chosen to be the official support vehicle as its versatility and features are perfectly suited to keep up with the adventurous and challenging pace of the event.”
UnionBank of the Philippines once again took center stage at DigiCon 2025, the country’s premier digital and technology conference organized by the Digital Marketing Association of the Philippines (DMAP). The annual event brought together leaders in business, marketing, and innovation to explore how emerging technologies—like artificial intelligence (AI)—are transforming industries and shaping the digital future.
This year, UnionBank showcased a deeper, more human approach to AI—one that brings personalization and empathy to the heart of every digital interaction. Aligning with DigiCon 2025’s theme, “The Age of I: The Power of Personalization,” UnionBank showcased how AI can create meaningful, human-centered experiences for customers and employees—reflecting its brand promise to help Filipinos “Live a Life Unlocked,” where technology empowers individuals to pursue their goals with greater freedom, confidence, and ease.
From Clicks to Connections: How AI Elevates Every Experience
During the conference’s Immersive Track, Rene Aguirre, UnionBank’s Digital Experience and Development head, shared the story of Nina, a digital customer whose banking journey—from opening her account to applying for a credit card and managing everyday financial transactions—is aided by AI.
“Digital transformation isn’t just about technology—it’s about people,” Aguirre said. “Every AI model we design aims to understand individual behavior and deliver experiences that feel intuitive, personal, and genuinely helpful.”
UnionBank’s AI-driven initiatives continue to transform customer journeys and deliver tangible results. These reflect UnionBank’s commitment to uplifting lives through innovation—using technology to simplify, personalize, and enhance how customers engage with their bank.
The New Work Order: Empowering Employees Through AI
Over at the Integrated Track, Michelle Rubio, UnionBank’s chief human resource officer and CSR head, joined the panel “The New Work Order: Of Culture, Tech, and Agile Workplaces,” highlighting the Bank’s human-centered approach to employee transformation.
“At UnionBank, we’re building a team of experts. You may start in one domain — say HR — but because we have democratized learning, UnionBankers can build expertise in other domains like blockchain, AI, data science, or digital innovation. Rubio shared. “That’s how we’re preparing UnionBankers to thrive in a world where being future-ready means being multi-skilled, adaptive, and always learning.”
UnionBank’s people-first philosophy extends to how it integrates AI at work. As Aguirre explained, “Our AI tools—like RIA, our AI-powered customer service assistant, and the Wealth RM Assistant—are designed to support, and not replace, human capability. They empower our teams to serve customers with greater empathy and intelligence.”
This is why, the Bank’s approach to AI is guided by two core principles: Automated Intelligence delivers seamless, digital-first banking experiences for customers, while Assisted Intelligence for employees enhances service quality, productivity, and decision-making.
A Future Built on Personalization and Purpose
With over 80 live AI models driving innovation across its operations, UnionBank continues to set the standard for next-generation, “phygital” banking—seamlessly blending physical and digital experiences to meet customers wherever they are.
“AI’s true value lies in how we use it to make banking more human,” Aguirre concluded. “In the Age of I, it’s not just about innovation—it’s about intention. And at UnionBank, that intention is clear: to use technology that uplifts lives and creates a better, more connected future for all.”
Union Bank of the Philippines is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to PHP1 Million per depositor. For more info, please visit our website https://www.unionbankph.com/. For any concern, you may contact the UnionBank Online app (Mailbox > Support > Create New Ticket) or the Customer Service Hotline at (+632) 8841-8600.
