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    PLDT Home offers up to 1Gbps speeds for an extra PHP500/month

    Upgrade your existing PLDT Home Fiber plan to speeds of up to 1Gbps for as low as PHP500 monthly until January 31, 2025. 

    This new year, elevate your digital experience at home and be among the first to experience gigabit internet with PLDT Home’s limited-time offering. As a special treat, PLDT Home is letting customers on Fiber Plans 1699 and higher enjoy speeds of up to 1Gbps until December 31, 2025.

    Gigabit speeds deliver up to 10 times faster than the average 100Mbps connection for households so families get to enjoy high-speed connectivity for multiple users at home. Moreover, families can also ensure consistent and reliable connectivity across multiple and high-bandwidth smart home devices. 

    Back in 2013, PLDT Home was the first telco in the country to provide 1Gbps fiber-to-the-home broadband service. In early 2024, PLDT Home ushered the Philippines into a full-scale Gigabit era with Gigabit Fiber broadband plans that can deliver speeds of up to 10Gbps. Only a handful of developed countries, including South Korea, Japan, and the United States, are offering these speeds. 

    As the pioneer of next-generation fiber plans, PLDT Home continues to set the standard for telco innovations in the country as it further elevates its product portfolio and improves customer service and loyalty programs. With the nation-widest and most robust fiber infrastructure that spans over 1.1 million cable kilometers of international and domestic fiber, PLDT Home remains the most reliable broadband and digital services provider in the country. 

    Supercharge your home with speeds of up to 1Gbps with the PLDT Home Speed Add-On. Simply add P500 to your monthly bill to enjoy this upgrade.

    To avail, text “PLDT BOOST” to 225687. You may also reach out to any PLDT Home sales channels online and in-store or visit pldthome.com/speedaddon to know more.

    SPOTTED: Share this billboard and win a brand new HONOR X9c 5G

    Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines took pride in its first-ever billboard. Staying to its innovative and out-of-the-box concepts, a mechanical billboard for the toughest phone can be seen along EDSA-Kamuning. Capture it, and you might just win your very own HONOR X9c 5G!

    “We’re very proud of our growth. We started two years ago, and our progress has been unstoppable. Now, we’re launching our very first billboard and we’ve got something for our HONOR fans. Spot and share to win an HONOR X9c 5G,” said HONOR Philippines vice president Stephen Cheng.

    Check out how the toughest phone performs in this GADGETSLAB review.

    Spot and Win and HONOR X9c 5G Billboard Contest

    Honor X9c 5G

    From January 16 to 31, you can get a chance to WIN a brand-new HONOR X9c 5G in just three easy steps!

    1. Like and Follow HONOR Philippines Social Media Pages (FB, IG, TikTok, X)

    2. Take a video or photo of the HONOR X9c 5G billboard

    3. Post and answer the question; “Why do you deserve to win an HONOR X9c 5G?” and tag three of your friends with the hashtags: #HONORX9c5G #TheToughestPhone #AllAngleTripleDefense #SpotTheToughestPhone

    The winner will be announced on February 5, 2025, via HONOR PH’s Instagram Story.

    A BRAND-NEW ROLEX DATEJUST Watch is still up for grabs when you pre-order HONOR X9c 5G until January 24 for only PHP16,999! Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9c_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9c_PR).

    For more affordable payment options, the HONOR X9c 5G is also available through installments via TikTok Paylater with the same freebies until January 24, 2025.

    For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

    Congratulations to the winners of the ‘Merry vivo Christmas’ raffle 

    What a way to wrap up the holiday season! vivo capped off the festivities with the grand draw of the Merry vivo Christmas Raffle last Friday, January 17, 2025.

    Four lucky winners were selected, each receiving fantastic prizes. One of them was drawn as the grand prize recipient, taking home the highly coveted NEW vivo X200 Pro, vivo’s latest flagship smartphone!

    The winners were filled with excitement over their fantastic prizes, while the grand prize winner reveled in a moment of victory—perfectly ending a season filled with joy!

    Merry vivo Christmas

    The luckiest of them all

    Merry vivo Christmas grand prize winner, Mrs. Leslie Marchan from San Juan City, couldn’t believe her luck when she won the raffle for the vivo X200 Pro smartphone. 

    “I couldn’t believe it. In my mind ‘Legit kaya ito?’” Leslie laughed. “I feel excited to receive this news and I can’t believe I won the raffle,” she said with a wide smile.

    A long-time vivo fan, Leslie had purchased numerous vivo smartphones for her colleagues in the past, impressed by the brand’s proven reliability and superior quality. “They also trust the brand because of its reliability and durability, which is widely known in the smartphone industry.” 

    Her husband was no exception. Leslie added, “My husband is also a vivo user, and I see that he is very happy with the brand’s quality and reliability for his daily use.”

    Leslie expressed her enthusiasm for the new X200 Pro, especially looking forward to testing out its powerful 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera’s capabilities!

    More smiles with Merry vivo Christmas prizes

    A season-ender made even merrier as the winners are set to receive their much-anticipated prizes!

    • Christian Jay Antonio from Cebu will be turning up the volume this year with a brand-new Bluetooth speaker.
    • Lady Lee Barillos from Quezon City is the proud winner of a vivo Watch 3, bringing style and smart convenience to his everyday life.
    • Rey Salahit from Davao can now enjoy seamless music experiences with his new TWS 3e earbuds.

    The winners of the Merry vivo Christmas promo have been notified through registered mail, email, and SMS, with their names proudly shared on vivo Philippines’ official social media pages.

    Stay excited for a Merry Year!

    vivo extends its thanks to everyone who joined in fun of #MerryvivoChristmas! It made this holiday season extra special for many Filipinos and vivo fans. Whether it’s unwrapping a new vivo device or sharing the joy with loved ones, vivo continues to deliver smiles and meaningful moments. 

    As 2025 unfolds, vivo fans can look forward to even more exciting promotions and events. Make sure to follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram , YouTube, X, and TikTok to stay updated!

    Cisco AI Defense secures the AI transformation of enterprises

    Cisco, the leader in security and networking, has announced Cisco AI Defense, a pioneering solution to enable and safeguard AI transformation within enterprises. As AI technology advances, new safety concerns and security threats are emerging at an unprecedented speed, which existing security solutions are unprepared to protect against. Cisco AI Defense is purpose-built for enterprises to develop, deploy, and secure AI applications with confidence.

    “Business and technology leaders can’t afford to sacrifice safety for speed when embracing AI,” said Jeetu Patel, executive vice president and chief product officer, Cisco. “In a dynamic landscape where competition is fierce, speed decides the winners. Fused into the fabric of the network, Cisco AI Defense combines the unique ability to detect and protect against threats when developing and accessing AI applications without tradeoffs.”

    The stakes of something going wrong with AI are incredibly high. According to Cisco’s 2024 AI Readiness Index, only 35% of those surveyed in the Philippines feel fully equipped to detect and prevent unauthorized tampering with AI. The security challenges are also new and complex, with AI applications being multi-model and multi-cloud. Vulnerabilities can occur at the model or app level, while responsibility lies with different owners, including developers, end users, and vendors. As enterprises move beyond public data and begin training models on proprietary data, the risks only grow.

    To unlock AI innovation and adoption, enterprises need a common layer of safety and security that protects every user and every application. AI Defense enables enterprises’ AI transformations by addressing two urgent risks:

    Developing and Deploying Secure AI Applications

    As AI becomes ubiquitous, enterprises will use and develop hundreds if not thousands of AI applications. Developers need one set of AI security and safety guardrails that work for every application.  AI Defense helps developers move fast and unlock greater value by protecting AI systems from attacks and safeguarding model behavior, across platforms. The capabilities of AI Defense include:

    • Discovering AI: Security teams need to understand who is building applications and the training sources they use. AI Defense detects shadow and sanctioned AI applications across public and private clouds.
    • Model Validation: Model tuning can lead to toxic and unexpected outcomes. Automated testing checks AI models for hundreds of potential safety and security issues. This AI-driven algorithmic red team identifies potential vulnerabilities and recommends guardrails in AI Defense for security teams to use.
    • Runtime Security: Continuous validation safeguards against potential safety and security threats such as prompt injection, denial of service and sensitive data leakage on an ongoing basis.

    Securing Access to AI Applications

    As end users rush to adopt AI applications like summarization tools to improve their productivity, security teams need to prevent data leakage and the poisoning of proprietary data. AI Defense enables security teams with:

    • Visibility: Provides a comprehensive view of shadow and sanctioned AI-enabled apps used by employees.
    • Access Control: Implements policies that restrict employee access to unsanctioned AI tools.
    • Data and Threat Protection: Continuously safeguards against threats and confidential data loss while ensuring compliance.

    Unlike safety guardrails built into individual AI models, Cisco delivers consistent controls for a multi-model world. AI Defense is self-optimizing, leveraging Cisco’s proprietary machine learning models to detect ever-evolving AI safety and security concerns based on threat intelligence data from Cisco Talos. Splunk customers that are using AI Defense will receive enriched alerts with additional context from across the entire ecosystem. AI Defense integrates seamlessly with existing data flows for unparalleled visibility and control and is built into the Security Cloud, Cisco’s unified, AI-driven, cross-domain security platform. It leverages Cisco’s extensive mesh of enforcement points to perform AI security at the network level in a way only Cisco is optimized to deliver. Accuracy and trustworthiness are essential for protecting enterprise AI applications, and Cisco has been actively involved in developing AI security industry standards, including those from MITRE, OWASP, and NIST.

    “The adoption of AI exposes companies to new risks that traditional cybersecurity solutions don’t address,” said Kent Noyes, global head of AI & cyber innovation at World Wide Technology. “Cisco AI Defense represents a significant leap forward in AI security, providing full visibility of an enterprise’s AI assets and protection against evolving threats.” 

    AI Defense is the latest in a series of AI-driven security innovations from Cisco, including Cisco Hypershield. Cisco AI Defense will be available in March for enterprises to safeguard their AI transformations. For more information, visit cisco.com/go/ai-defense.

    G-SHOCK limited edition Ouroboros-inspired GST-B400CX-1A rings in the lunar new year

    G-SHOCK, the iconic leader in innovative timekeeping, proudly unveils its latest limited-edition creation: the GST-B400CX-1A Ouroboros-Inspired Timepiece. Designed to honor the auspicious Chinese New Year and the Year of the Snake, this extraordinary watch embodies G-SHOCK’s signature blend of craftsmanship and cultural celebration.

    Ouroboros-Inspired Design

    From the G-STEEL series, fusing metal and resin in tribute to the Year of the Snake, the limited edition model, GST-B400CX captures the essence of ancient symbolism with a modern twist.

    The timepiece is based on the slim profile of the GST-B400 and features an Ouroboros motif, an ancient snake symbol representing infinity and immortality, both considered to be auspicious symbols of good fortune. Adorned with a silver metal bezel, sleek black dial, and striking gold accents, the design offers a versatile aesthetic for both formal and casual occasions.

    As a tribute to the Year of the Snake, the watch boasts intricate snake patterns on the side buttons and components at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. The case back is engraved with a special illustration of the Ouroboros, symbolizing limitless potential.

    High-Level Functionality

    True to G-SHOCK’s commitment to innovation, the GST-B400CX-1ADR delivers high-level functionality with Bluetooth® and solar power technology, while significantly reducing power consumption by optimizing energy efficiency. Large stainless-steel buttons ensure user-friendliness, while the model’s resin band, silver case, and contrasting bezel finishes create a refined, textured look

    The GST-B400CX-1ADR is more than a watch—it’s a timeless celebration of heritage, design, and technology, making it the perfect accessory for ushering in a prosperous Year of the Snake.

    The GST-B400CX-1A is priced at PHP26,620 and available for purchase at G-SHOCK stores and online. Sign up for CASIO ID to purchase.

    On top of that, from 20 January 2025, FUKUBUKURO Bags will be made available for purchase at PHP9,990 both online and in G-SHOCK stores. These FUKUBUKURO Bags are lucky bags filled with surprises. Stand a chance to draw special models including the special year of Snake Ouroboros model GST-B400CX or CASIO timepieces worth PHP16,000 to PHP26,000.

    Unleash unlimited potential and ring in the new year with infinite possibilities, and auspicious fortune with the exclusive FUKUBUKURO bag. Available while stocks last. Terms and conditions apply. 

    BYD Atto 3 refreshed for 2025

    BYD Cars Philippines, in partnership with ACMobility, is pleased to announce significant updates for the BYD Atto 3 in 2025. This follows the vehicle’s remarkable achievement of becoming the best-selling battery electric subcompact crossover after just one year of sales, with 1,062 examples reaching new owners in 2024.

    “The latest updates to the BYD Atto 3 enhance its appeal with refined features that keep it fresh and competitive in the growing EV market,” said Bob Palanca, managing director of BYD Cars Philippines. “Known for offering high-quality features at an affordable price, the Atto 3 continues to attract new customers to the brand as it solidifies its position as the electric vehicle of choice for those seeking a stylish and accessible BEV amid the market’s transition to an electric-powered lifestyle.”

    Enhanced Modern Design and Improved Functionality

    For its exterior features, the new BYD Atto 3 has a range of exciting updates that enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. A new power tailgate in the Premium variant is among the key improvements to the BEV SUV. This new feature provides greater convenience and easier access to the rear compartment. The vehicle also showcases a prominent BYD logo on its tailgate, simplifying its rear design. Gloss black accents on the D-pillar garnish and window trim refresh the new Atto 3’s exterior, giving it a more elegant look.

    The new BYD Atto 3 also receives a wider set of 235/50/R18 Continental tires for the Premium variant, which improves its handling and performance while maintaining its smooth and stable drive. For 2025, the Atto 3 will be available with a new Cosmos Black exterior color, giving customers more options. 

    “The updates to the new BYD Atto 3 enhance both its design and functionality, ensuring a more refined driving experience. These improvements reinforce our commitment to providing innovative and high-quality electric vehicles for our customers,” adds Palanca.

    Upgraded Interior for Comfort and Style

    Ambient lighting in the interior of the new Atto 3 is now available for both the Dynamic and Premium variants, creating a more relaxing cabin atmosphere. A PM 2.5 air filter with on-screen monitoring ensures better interior air quality, contributing to the occupants’ health and comfort. 

    Customers can also enjoy new interior color options with the new BYD Atto 3. Lighter body colors are combined with Blue and Grey interiors. At the same time, darker exterior shades are paired with a Blue and Black finish for a more formal contrast.

    The infotainment system has been upgraded with a larger 15.6-inch touchscreen display for the Premium variant, improving menu visuals and usability, offering a range of connected services, and ensuring a seamless driving experience.

    Additionally, a newly introduced Near-Field Communication (NFC) card provides convenience for easy keyless entry, starting, and access to the car’s other features. 

    Reliable and Proven All-electric Powertrain

    The powertrain options for the new BYD Atto 3 remain unchanged, maintaining its impressive 204PS and 310Nm of torque. Depending on the variant, it offers two Blade Battery options: a 49.9kWh offering 410 kilometers of range and a 60.5kWh with up to 480 kilometers. 

    “By incorporating thoughtful changes that enhance convenience, style, and performance, the BYD Atto 3 remains the perfect choice for those transitioning to electric vehicles,” said Aiffy Liu, country head of BYD Philippines. “Our commitment to maintaining affordability while improving design and quality makes the Atto 3 stand out in the competitive BEV market.”

    The new BYD Atto 3 remains competitively priced at PHP1,598,000 for the Dynamic variant and PHP1,798,000 for the Premium. Additionally, it retains its comprehensive warranty coverage— an 8-year or 160,000-km (whichever comes first) warranty for the BYD Blade Battery, an 8-year or 150,000-km (whichever comes first) warranty for the electric motor, and a 6-year or 150,000-km (whichever comes first) vehicle warranty.


    For more information on the new BYD Atto 3, visit BYD Cars Philippines’ website at www.bydcarsphilippines.com and its social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

    TESI recognized as OutSystems Premier Partner, solidifying PH leadership

    Transnational E-Business Solutions Inc. (TESI) was recently recognized as an OutSystems Premier Partner, the highest partner status awarded by OutSystems, a global enterprise software company. This prestigious badge highlights TESI’s expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional low-code solutions for clients that drive digital transformation for businesses.

    Only 37 OutSystems partners hold the Premier Partner Badge globally, and TESI is among the elite seven partners that have achieved the Premier, Sales, Delivery, and Training badge. TESI’s commitment to excellence sets it apart, providing clients with a partner who truly understands their needs.

    “Being named a Premier Partner solidifies TESI’s position as the leading OutSystems expert in the Philippines,” said Renvi Martinez, TESI president. “Our team’s deep expertise allows us to deliver innovative solutions that transform businesses and help them thrive in the digital age.”

    TESI has successfully collaborated with over 20 diverse industry segments, including transportation and logistics, banking, financial services, insurance, manufacturing, real estate, and retail. It has leveraged its expertise to design, develop, and deliver over 200 innovative web and mobile applications. These solutions have empowered enterprises to streamline operations, enhance user experiences, and achieve their business goals effectively.

    TESI is committed to empowering businesses with cutting-edge low-code development. By leveraging its Premier Partner status, the company aims to deliver even greater value and innovation to its clients. TESI is a member company of the Transnational Diversified Group.

    UP Circuit powers up 27th SquEEze: Uniting EEE’s brightest minds

    UP Circuit is back, launching again one of its most anticipated flagship events called SquEEze: The National Electrical and Electronics (EEE) Competition and Convention, now on its 27th iteration. This January 2025, the event awaits students and professionals to gather and celebrate excellence and expertise in this field of engineering. 

    SquEEEze is a major event for the EEE community organized annually by UP Circuit, an academic organization based on the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute (EEEI) of the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) aiming to unite the brightest young minds for a chance to unleash their utmost potential. 

    Three events will be featured this year, all presented in a face-to-face setup:

    Amp Up Your EEE Game!

    The Inter-High School quiz show on January 25 invites high school students nationwide to test their knowledge in fundamental EEE topics. Alongside the competition, participants will gain insights into the basics of EEE through engaging talks and hands-on workshops, offering them a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead in this field.

    Watt’s Your Winning Answer?

    The Inter-College quiz show on February 1 brings together teams from the country’s top universities to compete in an intense battle of wits and teamwork. It’s a platform for Electrical, Electronics, and Computer Engineering students to demonstrate their expertise and deepen their understanding of the discipline through insightful discussions.

    Shock the World with Innovation!

    The Technological Design Contest (Tech Decon) on February 1 presents an avenue for college undergraduates taking a program among BS Electronics Engineering (BS ECE), BS Electrical Engineering (BS EE), and BS Computer Engineering (BS CoE) as well to propose innovative solutions grounded in EEE concepts to pressing real-world challenges with the theme “Beyond Resilience: Leveraging Smart Solutions for Disaster Preparedness and Community Response.”

    Don’t resist your excitement and join now! Stay updated by following the official SquEEEze Facebook page for more details and exclusive offers on registration and event guidelines.

    Honda Civic Hybrid named 2025 North American Car of the Year

    At a press conference that kicked off the media day of the Detroit Auto Show last January 10, 2025, winners of the NACTOY Awards 2025 were announced. Among them was the Honda Civic Hybrid, which was named the 2025 North American Car of the Year, garnering a total of 205 votes. This is the fourth time that the iconic nameplate was granted a prestigious award by one of the longest-running new-vehicle awards in North America that is not associated with a single publication, website, radio or television station (other years the Honda Civic won: 2006, 2016 and 2022).

    For 30 years, the North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) Awards have celebrated excellence in various areas, including innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, user experience, driver satisfaction, and value. The NACTOY selection process starts with a “long list” that is rigorously tested and evaluated by 50 professional automotive journalists from the United States and Canada, representing independent print, online, TV, and radio outlets.

    According to one of the jurors, John Voelcker, who is a contributing editor for Car and Driver, Green Car Reports, and Inside EVs: “The Honda Civic has won awards for half a century now, and the Civic Hybrid brings Honda’s superb and fuel-efficient hybrid system into one of the market’s best compact sedans. Fun, fuel-efficient, and more elegant than its predecessors, it’s a hands-down winner.”

    The new Honda Civic is locally available in 3 variants: V Turbo CVT, RS Turbo CVT, and RS e:HEV E-CVT, which retail for PHP1,600,000, PHP1,790,000, and PHP1,990,000, respectively. Good news for the Honda Civic Hybrid intenders, the Honda e:HEV Financing program entitles customers to lower interest rates applicable for 15% to 20% downpayment for 36- to 60-month terms, subject to bank approval. Customers can also get free comprehensive insurance from RCBC, BDO, Chinabank and Eastwest Bank, and an extended loan term for up to 84 months with BPI.

    To stay updated on Honda’s available offers, go to https://www.hondaphil.com/promos. Customers may also browse Honda models and technologies at the Virtual Showroom here https://hondaphil.com/virtual-honda. Want to see the actual cars and personally talk to a sales executive?

    Find the nearest Honda dealership at https://hondaphil.com/dealer-finder.

    Jobstreet by SEEK hosts Career Con 2025 on January 28-29

    Leading online job portal, Jobstreet by SEEK, is making history with the launch of its largest and most ambitious event yet—the Career Con 2025. This highly anticipated career event will take place on January 28-29, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City. The event will run from 10 AM to 6 PM each day, bringing together job seekers, industry experts, and top companies for an unparalleled opportunity to connect and thrive in their professional journeys.

    With the theme, “Creating Connections You Seek,” Career Con 2025 will connect over 15,000 candidates with more than 100 hiring companies spanning various industries. As the premier career event, it seeks to redefine the job-seeking experience by uniting employers and jobseekers, creating a dynamic platform to explore new opportunities, forge meaningful connections, and discuss the future of employment.

    Candidates may explore job opportunities from SM Retail, Acquire, Philip Morris, Teletech, Techno Global Team, Flash Express, Cardinal Health, Accenture, Nestlé, Meralco, Petron, Metrobank, JPMorgan Chase, and Federal Land, among others.

    To support the nation’s ambitious goal of generating one million jobs by 2025, the two-day Career Con event will span two venues, offering distinct experiences for a massive audience. At the SMX Ground Level, the Career Fair Zone will showcase the participating hirers, providing career coaching, tools, candidate talks, and workshops. 

    Meanwhile, the second level will host the Career Summit Zone, catering to a specialized audience of middle to top management professionals, HR leaders, and industry innovators. This zone will feature high-level discussions, masterclasses on upskilling, employment trends, and exclusive networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the workforce.

    In addition, attendees can look forward to a variety of activities designed to equip them with essential career tools and insights. These include résumé clinics offering expert CV optimization tips, one-on-one interview pods for personalized interactions with potential employers, and career coaching sessions. Workshops and discussions will also cover topics such as interview preparation, what HR professionals look for in new hires, and upskilling to meet the demands of today’s evolving job market.

    “This year, we want to create as many jobs as possible for Filipinos, and Career Con 2025—our biggest on-site venture this year since the pandemic—will be the cornerstone for this mission. We see this as a vital step towards reshaping the way jobseekers and employers connect,” Joey Yusingco, Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines head of marketing, shared. “Furthermore, our goal is to create direct pathways between jobseekers and employers, empowering individuals to find the roles that fit their skills while helping the employers to discover the talents that perfectly align with their company needs.”

    This year’s event will also collaborate with major educational institutions and key government agencies, including the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) and SM, to facilitate an express service setup for all candidates, making the job-seeking process more efficient.

    For more information about Career Con 2025, visit Jobstreet’s official Facebook page @JobstreetPH or check the official Career Con website at https://ph.jobstreet.com/page/careercon-2025.

    Start the new year with a new Ford

    Start the new year with a brand-new Ford and avail of a number of deals for Ford’s best-selling vehicles until January 31, 2025. For this month, customers can get the Ford Territory, Everest, Ranger, or Explorer on enhanced all-in low downpayment or financing deals. 

    Get the Ford Territory Titanium for as low as a PHP64,000 all-in low downpayment or as much as a PHP60,000 cash discount. The Ford Everest 2.0L Turbo Titanium 4×2 is also available on an all-in low downpayment of PHP113,000 or for as low as PHP19,000 monthly fee.

    Looking for a pick-up truck for your daily drive? Get as much as a PHP100,000 cash discount for a Ranger 2.0L Sport 4×2 or Sport 4×4. The Ranger 2.0L Sport 4×2 is also up for grabs on an all-in low downpayment of PHP50,000.

    Customers looking for a spacious SUV can get the Ford Explorer on an enhanced financing deal of free 3-month amortization or 0% interest for 3 years.

    “We are excited to kick off the new year with enhanced financing offers for our customers who have been eyeing a Ford. This month, they can enjoy better all-in low downpayment deals for the Ranger, Everest, and Territory and can continue to avail of our amazing deals for the Explorer. Welcome 2025 with a new Ford and make new memories on the road with family and friends,” shares Pedro Simoes, managing director, of Ford Philippines. 

    For more details, visit the Ford website at www.ford.com.ph/showroom/all-offers/ or a Ford dealer nearest you.

    Sun Life Grepa brings healthcare closer to Ahon Sa Hirap members in Kalibo, Aklan

    Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the major insurers in the country, recently conducted a medical and dental mission in Kalibo, Aklan, for members of Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI), an organization committed to uplifting underprivileged communities across the Philippines.

    This initiative, held as part of supporting Life Insurance Consciousness Week, offered a full day of healthcare services to ASHI members, including medical check-ups, dental consultations, and the distribution of essential medications.

    “Our goal has always been to uplift the lives of Filipinos in line with our purpose of enabling financial security and healthier lives,” said Peter Miranda, Sun Life Grepa’s vice president for Group Marketing Operations. “By providing support to ASHI members, we’re not only addressing immediate health needs but also empowering them with knowledge and resources for their well-being. We are honored to bring this service to Kalibo, Aklan, as part of our ongoing commitment to serve and help build more resilient communities.” 

    This medical mission was conducted in collaboration with Stronghold Insurance, which generously provided meals for both attendees and volunteers.

    This latest medical and dental mission reaffirms Sun Life Grepa’s sustained commitment to ASHI members. Previous missions have been conducted in communities across the country, including Dasmarinas, Cavite; Mauban, Quezon; San Jose, Antique; and Pililla, Rizal.

    HUAWEI Mate X6:  Tough, flawless design and groundbreaking photography features in a flagship foldable

    HUAWEI has officially launched the HUAWEI Mate X6, the newest flagship foldable phone that represents the pinnacle of foldable technology with AI-powered photography. Designed to meet the demands of fast-paced lifestyles, the HUAWEI Mate X6 is available for pre-order from January 17, 2025, to January 30, 2025.

    Pioneering Foldable Technology

    HUAWEI has been a trailblazer in foldable innovation since the launch of the HUAWEI Mate X in 2019. Over the years, the brand has redefined the possibilities of foldable devices, introducing groundbreaking designs like the pocket-sized fold, dual fold, and the revolutionary HUAWEI Mate XT Triple Fold. Beyond aesthetics, HUAWEI’s relentless pursuit of excellence has overcome technical challenges to deliver superior performance in slim, lightweight designs. These innovations set industry standards, offering an exceptional large-screen experience that rivals traditional smartphones.

    HUAWEI Mate X6: Durability Redefined

    The HUAWEI Mate X6 is engineered for reliability, featuring cutting-edge materials and designs to withstand the rigors of everyday life:

    Mate X6
    1. Exterior Screen with 2nd Gen KUNLUN Glass: The HUAWEI Mate X6 boasts 2nd Generation KUNLUN Glass, making the exterior screen 25 times more drop-resistant. Its advanced glass network structure ensures resilience against deformation and cracks, offering users peace of mind for daily use.
    2. Interior Screen with Carbon Fiber Inner Plate: The interior screen features a composite laminated structure reinforced with carbon fiber, delivering unparalleled strength. With a deformation resistance of 380GPa—65% stiffer than standard materials—this innovation ensures durability during frequent folding.
    3. Aviation-Grade Aluminum Middle Frame: The aviation-grade aluminum frame enhances the device’s resistance to bending and compression, surviving impact tests unscathed and reinforcing its status as a durable foldable smartphone.
    1. Advanced Multi-Dimensional Hinge: Crafted from 1900MPa ultra-high-strength steel, the hinge is engineered to endure frequent use without weakening, ensuring smooth operation over time.

    Efficient Cooling for Maximum Performance

    The HUAWEI Mate X6 employs an innovative cooling system that separates heat sources for optimal performance. Its graphene film and 3D VC heat spreader ensure effective heat dissipation during heavy usage, such as gaming or video calls. Ultra-High Thermal Conductivity Graphene further accelerates cooling, maintaining peak efficiency even under demanding conditions. Additionally, its 2-meter IPX8 water resistance provides extra protection against unexpected spills or rain.

    Lightweight, Premium Design

    Combining elegance and toughness, the HUAWEI Mate X6 features a Space-Age Orbit camera layout and an exclusive vegan fiber finish. Despite its robust build, the device weighs only 239g and is 9.85mm thick when folded, shrinking to an ultra-slim 4.6mm when unfolded. Its rounded, soft quad-curve frame enhances comfort and grip while exuding a sophisticated look.

    Revolutionizing Photography and Multi-Tasking

    The HUAWEI Mate X6 delivers groundbreaking photography with a 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera, 40MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and 48MP telephoto micro camera. From capturing expansive landscapes to intimate close-ups, the camera system ensures every shot is breathtaking.

    For productivity, the device’s Live Multi-Task feature allows users to run three applications simultaneously on the expansive unfolded display. Whether video conferencing, reviewing presentations, or taking notes, the HUAWEI Mate X6 adapts seamlessly to work and leisure needs.

    Pre-Order Now and Enjoy Exclusive Perks

    The HUAWEI Mate X6 is available for pre-order in Nebula Red and Black at PHP114,999. Customers can purchase it on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, the HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide.

    HUAWEI is offering exclusive freebies worth PHP44,797 for pre-orders, including:

    • – HUAWEI WATCH GT 4
    • – DJI NEO
    • – Trade-in token worth PHP10,000
    • – 1-Year Accidental Screen Damage Protection (one-time use)
    • This limited-time offer is available from January 17 to January 30, 2025.

    Exclusive VIP Preview

    Huawei will host a VIP Preview of the Huawei Mate X6 and Huawei Nova 13 Series at 35 select Huawei Experience Stores. Join them on January 25-26 at 3PM to experience the future of foldable technology firsthand.

    For more information, visit HUAWEI’s official website or follow their social media channels (Facebook | Instagram).

    Grab and BYD enter strategic partnership to expand electric vehicle fleet offering across Southeast Asia

    Grab, a leading superapp in Southeast Asia, and BYD have announced a regional partnership to expand access to up to 50,000 BYD electric vehicles (EVs) to Grab’s driver-partners across Southeast Asia, while increasing the availability of green vehicles to Grab users. 

    Across Southeast Asia, high upfront costs remain a key barrier for EV adoption. Through this partnership, Grab and BYD look to boost the electrification of the transportation sector in Southeast Asia by providing Grab’s fleet partners and driver-partners with access to BYD vehicles at the most competitive rates, with extended warranties on the EV vehicles’ batteries. Drivers will have the option of renting the EVs from Grab’s fleet partners or opt for financing support through Grab’s car ownership schemes. The partnership supports Grab’s commitment to help driver-partners accelerate the transition to zero-emission modes of transport. In countries like Singapore and Thailand, Grab users can also choose to toggle on the “Eco-Friendly Ride” option, which will prioritize allocating green vehicles at no additional charge.

    Liu Xueliang, general manager of BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division said, “We are excited to partner with Grab as the leading on-demand transport provider in Southeast Asia and push forward the transition to electric vehicles in the region. BYD, as the world’s leading new energy vehicle manufacturer, will best integrate our technology with Grab’s, and we look forward to working with them to deliver a unique and unparalleled experience for their drivers and users. We continue to be dedicated to our goal of building a zero-emission ecosystem and we are committed to supporting Grab’s fleet and driver-partners. Through this collaboration, we are working together with Grab to realize the vision of cooling the earth by one degree.”

    Deep technology integration to enhance efficiency and overall experience of Grab services

    BYD and Grab will collaborate to facilitate deep IoT integration between the vehicles and Grab’s platform and services. Through this collaboration, Grab aims to deliver:

    • Safer rides and a more intuitive driving experience for driver-partners: By installing the Grab driver application available in the head unit of BYD vehicles, drivers will be able to view their jobs, navigation, and chats all at a glance on a larger screen instead of having to toggle back and forth on their smartphones. Sensor and telemetry data from BYD vehicles will also be integrated directly into the Grab platform, providing real-time insights into drivers’ driving patterns and behaviors, which Grab can use to give guidance to drivers on how to improve their driving behavior.
    • Improved reliability: With data like wiper signals and travel speed feeding into the Grab platform in real-time, Grab will be able to infer more quickly and accurately external conditions such as weather and traffic. This data, when fed back into Grab’s algorithm is then used to guide drivers towards areas where there is likely greater demand for rides, ensuring that there are sufficient drivers to meet spikes in passenger bookings. Real-time location data from the BYD fleet will also further boost the accuracy of Grab’s backend system in deriving a more precise estimated time of arrival (ETA) for a ride.
    • Better navigation and routing: Both companies aim to leverage Grab’s hyperlocal map data and services to facilitate smoother and more efficient journeys for BYD drivers. This collaboration could also enable Grab to collect valuable road and traffic data from the vehicles, potentially enhancing its mapping services. 

    The partnership spans Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, and covers a range of models, including the DENZA D9, BYD ATTO3, BYD SEAL, and BYD M6 cars. Grab intends for DENZA, the premium electric vehicle brand from BYD, to become the cornerstone of its GrabExec fleet featuring the DENZA D9 luxury seven-seater electric MPVs. These vehicles are designed with state-of-the-art  features, to offer unparalleled comfort and luxury. By integrating the DENZA D9 into its fleet, Grab aims to set a new standard in executive transportation, anchored on convenience, style, and sustainability. 

    Chuck Kim, managing director, Group Business Development, Grab, said, “Sustainable growth in Southeast Asia is a priority for us and we are always looking to improve our offerings to both our driver-partners and Grab users. This collaboration enables us to drive the transition to EVs forward by lowering the financial barriers that are often associated with EVs, and in the long run deliver economic benefits to our driver-partners which may include fuel cost savings. We are confident that a reliable partner like BYD who are committed to delivering high quality vehicles and services allows us to showcase the benefits of EVs and make green transportation an accessible option to everyone.”

    Over 84% of PH organizations had a supply chain cybersecurity breach in 2024

    BlueVoyant, an industry-leading cyber defense company, recently released research findings from its fifth annual global survey into supply chain cyber risk management. Results from the Philippines show that reducing supply chain cyber risk is a major problem, with more than 84% of organizations reporting an average of 3.13 breaches impacting operations this year. 

    The results reveal critical gaps in third-party cyber security risk management among Philippine organizations, with almost a third (32%) of respondents reporting having no way to detect cyber security incidents within their supply chains, surpassing the global average of 30% and highlighting significant visibility challenges. Furthermore, 65% acknowledged that third-party cyber security risk management is either not a priority or only somewhat of a priority, underscoring the need for stronger monitoring, prioritization, and risk mitigation strategies.

    “These findings highlight that Philippines businesses continue to tackle the critical challenge of mitigating supply chain and third-party cyber risks,” said William Oh, interim head of Asia-Pacific at BlueVoyant. “Despite the rising frequency of breaches, awareness and prioritization of these issues remain alarmingly low compared to global counterparts. The importance of managing risk across the supply chain cannot be understated, especially as the Philippines remains a prevalent target for cyber attacks like phishing, scam calls, and data breaches.”  

    supply chain

    Other key findings from Philippines organizations: 

    • Monitoring frequency varies, with annual checks being the most common (33%, higher than the global rate (17%), yet monthly monitoring drops down to (13%) and is significantly lower compared to regional peer Singapore 27% and 17% globally).
    • Exchanges and marketplaces are the most commonly reported solution for managing third-party cyber risk in the Philippines, adopted by 36% of organizations, slightly ahead of network scanning and penetration tests for third parties (34%). Philippines respondents are also more inclined to outsource remediation, including working with vendors on mitigation plans and ensuring mitigation takes place (42%).
    • There are areas for improvement for Philippines organizations, with 32% report they have no way of knowing if a cyber breach occurs and are less likely to report using autonomous transparency tools. Fifty-five percent of Philippine respondents reported no autonomous transparency into their supply chain compared to 39% globally.
    • Concern over recent breaches. Almost 45% (43%) of Philippines organizations indicated the news of breaches over the past 12 months (example MOVEit and other large supply chain cyber security breaches) are likely to lead to an increase in budget for additional internal and external resources to help protect against supply chain cyber security issues.

    Disconnect Between Budgets and the Impact of a Supply Chain Incident 

    The good news is that 90% of The Philippines organizations are reporting budget increases with their third-party cyber security risk management programmes which reflects greater importance on cyber risk compared to 86% globally.

    “While increased budget allocations are encouraging, prioritization of third-party cyber security risk in Philippines organizations needs further consideration. Organizations must proactively monitor third parties and address critical risks. These budget increases can help drive greater third-party cyber risk maturity, aligning with other regions,” said Oh.

    Joel Molinoff, global head of Supply Chain Defence at BlueVoyant added: “More organizations than any previous year indicated that their primary focus is no longer on awareness of the third-party risk management problem or adoption of a program, but rather with the operational, day-to-day challenges of managing an effective program. While this progress also brings many new challenges, it indicates a major step in the right direction when contrasted with previous years where many organizations had poor tracking of third-party vendors, little to no leadership oversight, and virtually no collaboration when it came to remediating cyber issues.” 

    The study was carried out by an independent market research organization, Opinion Matters, who surveyed 2,100 -suite leaders responsible for supply chain and cyber risk management across a range of industries (including 290 responses in The Philippines). To gain a global perspective, the research was conducted in 11 countries across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific.

    Learn more about the full report: “The State of Supply Chain Defence: Annual Global Insights Report 2024,” including analysis across countries and vertical sectors.