Globe recently held its inaugural Code to Career Hackathon, bringing together top tech talent from Metro Manila to solve real-world challenges and compete for exclusive career opportunities within the company.
The one-day hiring hackathon was designed to break the mold of traditional recruitment, allowing participants to showcase their coding expertise, develop innovative solutions, and vie for exciting rewards.
“At Globe, we are constantly seeking bright, driven individuals who can help push the boundaries of technology,” said Raul Macatangay, Globe chief information officer. “This hackathon is more than just a competition—it’s a gateway for aspiring tech professionals to gain hands-on experience, connect with industry leaders, and take the next big step in their careers with us.”
“As a company deeply dedicated to innovation and career development, Globe is excited to offer this platform to emerging tech talent. This event reflects our belief in nurturing individuals by giving them the opportunity to showcase their coding skills and tackle real-world challenges,” said Keith Batallones, Globe head of engineering and digital solutions.
During the hiring hackathon, participants were guided by mentors from Globe and its partners— Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google, UpLift Code Camp, and F5 —who provided valuable insights, resources, and guidance throughout the day.
This collaboration further highlighted Globe’s dedication to promoting continuous learning and mentorship within the tech community. At the same time, it provided an environment where tech enthusiasts could thrive and develop their professional paths with Globe.
“The Code to Career event became a platform for newbie and seasoned professionals to solve real-life challenges through code, cloud, and AI. The top participants get a chance to win awesome, cool prizes and those qualified get a job offer on the spot. Grateful to the participants who chose to spend their Saturday learning and having fun through hacking and building their network,” said Jesse Liamzon, senior director for architecture and engineering.
Globe continues to be a premier destination for tech talent in the Philippines. The hiring hackathon further solidified the company’s leadership in the tech industry and reinforced its commitment to empowering the next generation of tech leaders.
For those looking to take the next step in their tech journey, Globe offered various roles across different teams that emphasize creativity, innovation, and collaboration. The company hired 15 new employees from the hackathon event, including engineers and developers.
For the latest on available roles at Globe, follow Globe Telecom on LinkedIn.
NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, is investing nearly PHP1.4 billion to ensure seamless toll transactions and boost customer experience across its expressway network.
These developments will include the installation of Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras on all 315 toll lanes. To date, 77 lanes have ALPR technology to capture license plate data from vehicles at barrierless plazas and track vehicles passing without RFID tags or with insufficient balance.
“Over the years, NLEX Corporation has shown its commitment to providing world-class service. By benchmarking its technologies against those used in other countries, we aim to provide greater accessibility and convenience to all motorists at NLEX, SCTEX, and NLEX Connector,” said NLEX Corporation office-in-charge and chief finance officer Maria Theresa Wells.
Another vital program is the conversion of the remaining 127 RFID antennas to high-frequency antennas capable of reading RFID stickers more efficiently. These antennas will increase the read range for RFID stickers and detect up to three vehicles in advance to promptly process toll lane transactions.
These upgrades aim to meet the critical requirements to enhance overall customer satisfaction, which includes achieving a 98% RFID readability rate, ensuring vehicle detection at toll lanes within one second for all classes, and providing accurate vehicle classification.
NLEX also invested in additional speed cameras to strengthen traffic law enforcement and complement these toll system enhancements, helping mitigate the dangers of speeding for the safety of motorists. Other upgrades include the replacement of toll lane computers and the installation of the Plaza Computer System (PCS) and Video Enhancement System (VES) servers in NLEX and SCTEX.
The Aurora Music Festival is back for its fourth consecutive year, promising yet another unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and community. This year’s edition, happening on May 3 and 4, 2025, at the grounds of Clark Global City, is set to make history with a stellar lineup headlined by none other than the hottest worldwide P-pop sensation, BINI. To all certified Blooms out there, better not to miss this two-day spectacle!
For the first time, a female group will not only headline the country’s biggest music festival but also dominate both days of this highly anticipated event. It’s set to be the biggest Aurora Music Festival ever.
BINI’s trailblazing performance underscores their meteoric rise in the Philippine music scene and their significant impact as global P-pop icons. As the first artist to headline both days of the Aurora Music Festival, BINI has solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with in OPM, inspiring fans and future generations with their unmatched talent, dedication, and charm to a broad audience.
Beyond the incredible music lineup, festival-goers will also be treated to a breathtaking display of more than 20 hot air balloons, painting the sky with vibrant colors and mesmerizing shapes. The Aurora Music Festival isn’t just about music—it’s a full sensory experience, combining the thrill of live performances with the awe-inspiring beauty of soaring hot air balloons. Whether you’re a music lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to capture stunning visuals, this festival promises a feast for the eyes and ears alike.
Along with the super popular girl group that gave us the hits “Pantropiko” and “Salamin, Salamin,” get ready to be blown away by an exceptional lineup of the hottest and most beloved OPM artists of today!
Aurora Music Festival Day 1 on May 3, 2025 is set to captivate you with OPM hitmakers Moira, TJ Monterde, Arthur Nery, BGYO, and Rico Blanco.
Meanwhile,May 4, 2025 Day 2 will feature chart-toppers Cup of Joe, Maki, Dionela, Flow G, and Over October.
With performances from a mix of seasoned legends and rising stars, the festival promises an electrifying atmosphere that will leave every music enthusiast craving for more.
Now in its fourth year, the Aurora Music Festival has solidified its reputation as the premier and largest touring music festival in the Philippines. Known for its massive success and vibrant celebration of OPM, this annual event continues to music fans all over the country. Truly, the festival’s evolution mirrors the growing recognition and love for Filipino talent.
Aurora Music Festival Clark 2025 is Presented by EPIC EVENTS, Grab Philippines, Eggstop, Mr. Macchiato and Pampanga Taxi. Co-presenters Fudgee Bar and Cebu Pacific.
Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Get a website-exclusive Platinum to be sold in minutes. Tickets start at PHP500 only!
Epson, a leader in professional printing, has announced the launch of its newest signage printer, the SureColor S9130. Designed to push the boundaries of signage printing, the SureColor S9130 combines exceptional image quality with increased productivity, meeting the needs of businesses that demand superior performance and versatility.
The SureColor S9130 is the successor of Epson’s S80670 and S80670L and takes productivity to new heights with expanded color capabilities and cutting-edge print technology. The printer features Epson Cloud Solution PORT, a cloud-based remote monitoring software that provides real-time visibility and control over printer fleets. This innovative solution helps businesses monitor performance, enhance efficiency, and streamline operations from any device, anywhere.
Perfect for producing high-quality banners, vehicle wraps, fine art, and luxury brand displays, the SureColor S9130 sets a new standard for professional signage production.
Expanded Color Gamut for Exceptional Print Quality
The SureColor S9130 introduces a breakthrough in color performance with its 11-color ink set, featuring the all-new Green ink. This innovation enables the printer to achieve an expanded color gamut, delivering vibrant, true-to-life colors for even the most demanding signage applications. Designed for versatility, the SureColor S9130 is compatible with dual-size ink packs (800ml and 1500ml), allowing businesses to optimize for different operational needs. The high image quality and precise color reproduction make it ideal for producing everything from luxury brand displays to window graphics, textiles, and fine art.
Advanced Technology for Maximum Productivity and Efficiency
Equipped with upgraded printhead technology featuring 9,600 nozzles, the SureColor S9130 ensures faster and more efficient printing with a 5% increase in speed in default mode (10 pass, 1200 x 600 dpi). Dual rows of white ink nozzles enhance opacity and reduce banding, ensuring smoother and more professional results. Epson’s Nozzle Verification Technology (NVT) automatically detects and adjusts for clogged nozzles, maintaining consistent print quality without interruptions. The addition of a built-in temperature sensor maintains consistent nozzle surface temperatures, improving color consistency from the first to the last print.
The new ‘Text Sharpness’ mode in Epson Edge Print Pro also enables precise fine-text printing, while improved white text line width ensures greater clarity and detail. The SureColor S9130 also features an improved warm-up time compared to its predecessor, allowing end users to start production more quickly. Specifically, the pre-heater now reaches optimal temperature in just 2.9 minutes, down from 4 minutes in the previous model. These enhancements make the SureColor S9130 a powerhouse for high-volume production, delivering quality and speed without compromise.
Smarter Features for Seamless Usability
The SureColor S9130 redefines user convenience with a host of features tailored for efficiency and ease of operation. The new 4.3-inch tiltable touch display panel offers an intuitive, glove-friendly interface, ensuring seamless usability even in demanding environments. The media lifter simplifies the handling of heavy materials, reducing operator strain and enhancing workplace safety while enabling effortless media loading.
The SureColor S9130 also features an improved design. As a compact 64-inch printer with a low-profile design, it is ideal for height-restricted spaces, allowing easy status checks of multiple units.
Furthermore, the SureColor S9130 utilizes UltraChrome GS3 eco-solvent ink, which has earned the prestigious Greenguard Gold Certification. Using a safe pigment formula that is free from nickel and fluorine compounds while producing low chemical emissions, the UltraChrome GS3 eco-solvent ink underscores Epson’s commitment to environmental responsibility and user safety.
Enhanced Fleet Management with Epson Cloud Solution PORT
Finally, the SureColor S9130 is integrated with Epson’s Cloud Solution PORT, a cloud-based monitoring software designed for comprehensive fleet management. This innovative system provides a live view of printer fleet production, equipment utilization, and service status, enabling businesses to optimize workflows and maximize productivity. Accessible via PCs, smartphones, and tablets, the intuitive dashboard delivers actionable insights drawn from extensive usage data, helping users make informed decisions to drive operational efficiency and growth.
“Today’s sign makers and print service providers need tools that do more than just print—they need solutions that drive business growth. The SureColor S9130 empowers businesses with the speed, precision, and flexibility to take on more projects, deliver exceptional results, and strengthen their competitive edge,” said Noelle Gonzales, marketing division head at Epson Philippines. “The SC-S9130 is designed to not only deliver stunning print quality but also streamline workflows, giving our customers the confidence to push creative boundaries and seize new opportunities in the signage market.”
Visit Epson’s website or contact the nearest Epson Authorized Dealer store around you for more information.
MG Motor Philippines is thrilled to announce a record-breaking year in 2024, achieving 9,016 units sold—the highest annual sales since the brand began operations in the Philippines. MG also ended the year at 9th place in industry sales.
This milestone underscores the growing trust and confidence of Filipino car buyers in the iconic British heritage brand, which continues to deliver value, style, and performance. MG’s strong sales performance reflects the brand’s commitment to providing high-quality vehicles that cater to the diverse needs of Filipino motorists.
“Surpassing 9,000 units sold in a single year is a remarkable achievement for MG Motor Philippines,” said Felix Jiang, president of SAIC Motor (MG Motor) Philippines. “We are grateful to our customers, dealer partners, bank partners, and employees for their unwavering support. This success fuels our drive to deliver even more in 2025.”
Key contributors to this record-breaking performance include MG’s best-selling models, such as the MG ZS and MG G50 Plus. The MG 5 sedan, on the other hand, has surged to become the best-selling model in the 1.5 liter sub-compact sedan segment, leading the way with 3,415 units sold.
Strategic dealership expansions have further strengthened MG’s presence across the country, making the brand more accessible to Filipino car buyers with 46 dealerships nationwide.
Looking ahead, MG Philippines is poised to build on this success in 2025 with the introduction of new models, more dealerships to open, and enhanced customer programs to elevate the MG ownership experience.
Hop onboard to the Metro Manila LRT-1 Express featuring the Honor of Kings S3 Invitational, which is set to kick up a storm from February 22 to March 1, 2025! This is the first-ever railway activation from Honor of Kings Philippines, which also features local players from Blacklist International, World Elevate, and Rough World Era.
With the S3 Invitational coming into full swing at SM North EDSA, the Group Stages and Grand Finals Weekend are free for all to watch at The Block, with seating on a first-come first-served basis.
The tournament will also showcase the S3 exclusive theme song from local rappers Raymond Abracosa “Abra”, Marlon “Loonie” Peroramas, “Pag-Asa ng Pinas” and a special mystery guest in the upcoming music video that’s set to be released on February 20.
When queried on why they’ve chosen to collaborate with Honor of Kings, Abra stated that “Syempre H-OK siya! Ok siya! (It’s H-OK!).
Loonie noted, “Gamer din ako, I feel honored to be one of the representatives of HOK. Balita ko itong game talaga na to ang isa sa mga orig kaya nakakatuwa na maassociate sa laro na to. (I’m also a Gamer, I feel honored to be one of the representatives of HOK. I heard this game is one of the OGs so it’s an honor to be associated to this game).”
Both rappers enjoyed the experience of shooting for the video and making the S3 theme music, with Loonie saying,” Nakakagulat! Isa to sa pinakamalupet at pinakamaangas na shoot na napuntahan ko. (I was surprised, this is one of the coolest and most awesomer Shoot I’ve ever been on).”
Watch out for the PH S3 Theme Song to be released on February 22, 2025, and the LRT-1 Express coursing through the tracks until March 9, 2025.
Maya, the No. 1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, is bridging the credit and education gap for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) through its Negosyo Serye program, which merges financial literacy with seamless loan access.
The program targets eligible MSME owners who operate Maya Center businesses, offering them financial management skills, growth opportunities, and streamlined access to Maya’s lending products. Maya Centers offer a broad range of essential financial services, including remittances, bill payments, cash-in, cash-out, and reloading—creating a convenient one-stop solution for everyday financial needs.
“Financial literacy programs often leave entrepreneurs without a way to put their learning into practice,” said Renan Santiago, Maya head for MSME business and retail. “We empower MSMEs with essential financial skills and seamless access to credit—equipping them with both the knowledge and the tools to take immediate action for growth.”
Entrepreneurs like Mylene Laguio from Quezon City have already experienced the benefits. As a Negosyo agent, Laguio recently secured a PHP150,000 loan through Maya Advance. She said, “With Maya’s Negosyo Serye, I got financial training, instant credit, and franchising opportunities—all in one place. It’s a faster, more complete solution that is helping me grow my business quickly and efficiently.”
Breaking Barriers for MSMEs
MSMEs in the Philippines often struggle with financial literacy and credit access, limiting their growth potential.
Maya’s NegosyoSerye addresses these obstacles by teaching budgeting, saving, and investing, alongside responsible loan use. Participants also explore business expansion opportunities, such as franchising, within the session.
Qualified MSME merchants can obtain loans through Maya Advance, with credit limits up to PHP350,000—all without the paperwork and collateral typically required by traditional banks. Real-time loan approval replaces the usual weeks-long wait, offering much-needed speed to small businesses.
“This seamless model is part of Maya’s broader plan to create a one-stop digital ecosystem for MSMEs,” said Santiago. “By combining education, business opportunities, and fast credit, we’re eliminating the friction that holds back micro-entrepreneurs. Our goal is to make sure they can take action when ready, without the delays typical of traditional loans.”Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, integrating Maya, the #1 Digital Bank, and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor.
Maya Bank is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and deposits are insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) for up to PHP500,000 per depositor. For more information, visit maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Follow Maya on social media at @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @mayaofficialph on Twitter.
The new year is the perfect time to focus on health and wellness. For many, setting fitness goals and building better habits mark the first step toward a healthier, more active lifestyle. Whether it’s exercising daily, meal prepping, or practicing healthy hydration everyday – these small, consistent habits can lay the foundation for long-term success.
The key is consistency—and it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are some ways you can take to invest in a healthier life this year.
Develop just one healthy habit – but do it every day
Healthy habits don’t have to be complicated. Start with an activity you genuinely enjoy and aim to do it every day for two months. Once it becomes a habit, you’ll no longer rely on willpower to stay on track—it will be automatic.
A great example of a simple healthy habit? Running.
Running has surged in popularity, and it’s easy to see why: running boosts the mood, reduces anxiety, and delivers tons of physical benefits. And it’s not complicated—just grab your sneakers and hit the road!
One way you can really build your fitness habit is to join others in their journey. Run clubs have become a go-to for those looking to stay active and make connections. Their workouts are shared experiences, which can help you stay motivated.
Move your body everyday
Incorporating movement through running and joining runs as part of your routine is one of the best ways to build a healthy lifestyle. This year, you can make your steps count even more by joining the GCash Eco Run.
The GCash Eco Run gives everyone the chance to combine fitness with helping the planet. In partnership with Silliman University, a grey mangrove tree will be planted in Negros Occidental for every person who signs up for the GCash Eco Run. To double the impact of this initiative, GCash will plant an additional tree for every tree planted!
Mangroves play a vital role in combating climate change, protecting local coastlines from erosion, and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities by serving as fish nurseries. This initiative not only strengthens environmental resilience but also ensures sustainable livelihoods, fostering long-term benefits for both nature and people.
The GCash Eco Run offers distances for everyone — from beginners to more seasoned runners. The 3K and 5K races are open to participants 13 and older, and children 12 and under may join if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those who want to stretch their capabilities can join the 10K race, which is open to participants 16 and older.
The GCash Eco Run is happening on March 23, 2025, along Ayala Avenue in Makati. Until February 28, you can register and enjoy PHP150 OFF with promo code GCASHRUNTAYO. Every step supports mangrove restoration, helping protect our shores and marine life, so take advantage of this special offer while it lasts!
Rakuten Viber, the super app trusted for fostering meaningful connections on a secure platform, now offers Viber Dating, a new in-app feature that helps Filipinos meet real people and make real connections. Starting Valentine’s Day, Viber Dating is officially available in the Philippines, making Viber the first-ever communications app to offer an innovative and moderated dating solution. This gives Filipinos a safe and secure way to find their match or simply meet new friends and then continue to build lasting relationships in the same app.
Sure, there are plenty of fish in the sea, but finding The One can be a long and winding journey. In today’s online dating world, it’s a minefield of scams and catfishing. What’s more, most dating apps keep you stuck in a loop of swipes that rarely go anywhere because they make money as long as you use them — ouch!
When it comes to online dating, many people are concerned about engaging in bots and fake profiles, or falling for scams — and rightfully so. In a survey by Pew Research Center, only 48% of U.S. adults say that online dating is a very or somewhat safe way to meet people. In fact, 52% of those who have used dating sites and apps say they have come across someone they think was trying to scam them. The same is true for many Filipinos, as a 2024 report by global information solutions provider TransUnion has revealed that the digital fraud rate in Filipino dating platforms and other online communities is at 18%, which is much higher than the global average of 11.5%.
With Viber Dating, users can finally feel confident when looking for connections online, as protecting their users’ privacy has always been an essential and paramount part of Rakuten Viber’s mission from the start. This strict commitment is extended to Viber Dating by following stringent measures:
Profile verification: Only verified Viber users can create profiles. Every Viber Dating user is real and registered with their mobile number.
Hidden phone numbers: Your phone number remains completely hidden, ensuring that no personal contact information is ever shared during your dating experience unless you choose to share it.
Moderation techniques include machine and human moderators, for a positive experience for all.
Separate chats: Your dating profile is separate from your main Viber account, keeping your dating activity private from your primary connections.
As a trusted name in communication for over a decade, Viber has been facilitating secure and safe communication for new couples for years, especially during the second stage of dating—after they’ve met and moved away from using dating apps. Viber now fixes the first stage of dating too: enabling people to find meaningful connections. Unlike other dating apps, when you meet someone special through Viber Dating, you can smoothly transition to Viber’s main app, where you can keep the conversation going and continue building your connection in a secure and private space. Here, all private 1:1 chats and calls, as well as private group calls, are end-to-end encrypted by default, and messages are never stored in Viber’s servers once delivered.
Viber also understands that you may want to keep your dating life private. That’s why your dating profile will be strictly separate from your primary Viber account and will only be visible to other Viber Dating users. Your main Viber connections will never know or be notified when you are signing up to and using the dating feature, nor will you see your dating-related conversations and activities. Viber Dating is accessible in a separate tab from your Chats.
David Tse, senior director at Rakuten Viber APAC, shares that Viber Dating was developed after a series of focus groups with Viber users revealed that people want genuine connections with real people and high-quality matches, but were very concerned about keeping their identities private and under their control until they feel comfortable enough to reveal it. “Viber’s mission as a super app is to create safe and trusted connections, and this extends to the dating world, providing users with much-needed peace of mind,” says Tse. “Given these measures, we hope we can further protect our users from fake profiles and love scams.”
As a very first step, simply create a profile with your dating preferences — it’s totally free. You are encouraged to add photos and share a quick bio about yourself, including your hobbies and interests. After creating your profile, Viber shows you potential matches based on your preferences, and you can swipe left or right if you are interested or not. If both of you are interested in each other, you will be matched, and this unlocks the opportunity to chat only within the Viber Dating platform—again, separate from your regular private and group chats. To enhance the dating experience, premium features like Who Liked Me are already available in the Philippines. These features will roll out globally and be joined by more in the coming months.
“Viber has been built to create meaningful and secure connections for our users, and we’re excited to now extend this commitment to the world of dating. For many, online fraud has taken the joy out of meeting new people, while the frustration of being stuck with expensive apps that leave them feeling trapped and single continues to grow. As a super app, we are here to break this cycle and bring back the excitement of real connections with real people,” emphasizes Tse.
Finding genuine connections online doesn’t have to be a tale of endless trial and error. Date with confidence and peace of mind. Date Safer with Viber Dating on Rakuten Viber!
Sign up for Viber Dating now for free. Viber Dating will be introduced in other countries soon.
Digido announced that it has signed a memorandum of agreement with PalawanPay, the digital wallet of Palawan Group of Companies. The agreement sees the integration of the digital lending platform’s services inside the digital wallet of the Palawan Group of Companies, enabling its customers to take a Digido loan at their own convenience.
PalawanPay users can utilize their Digido loans for digital transactions and QR Ph-accepting merchants, as well as being able to conveniently repay their loans through their account.
Customized advertisements from Digido will be rolled out in the Palawan Group of Companies’ vast network of Palawan Pawnshop branches as a result of the agreement.
Digido offers fair loans up to PHP6,000 for first-time borrowers, along with a standard Personal Loan up to PHP25,000 for repeat clients.
PalawanPay has successfully solidified its position as one of the fastest-growing digital wallet apps in the Philippines, delighting over 20 million users.
Commenting on the partnership, Digido Finance Corp. president Aleksei Kosenko said: “This landmark partnership reflects the synergy of both companies’ products and our aligned goal in promoting financial inclusion through access to safe and trusted digital financial services. We are incredibly excited to embark on this endeavor with PalawanPay and are looking forward to serving more Filipinos with our credit services.”
PalawanPay president and CEO Third Librea added, “Anchored in PGC’s thrust to foster financial inclusion among Filipinos, we at PalawanPay are very keen to kick off this partnership with Digido. I can’t wait to see more of our kababayan enjoy reliable digital financial services.”
Services under the Digido platform are financed by Digido Finance Corp. with SEC Registration No. 202003056 and Certificate of Authority No. 1272.
Digido’s trusted services have been lauded by the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards, International Finance Awards, World Business Outlook Awards, International Business Magazine Awards, Pan Finance Awards, The Global Economics Awards, the Global Banking & Finance Review and the Global Financial Market Review.
Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH)kickstarts the first quarter of the year with an exclusive Hyundai Service Raffle promo, offering customers a chance to win a brand-new Hyundai CRETA. The raffle promo is open to both under-warranty and out-of-warranty customers who will avail of Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and General Repair Services until April 30, 2025.
Hyundai owners with vehicles under warranty will need a receipt worth at least PHP2,000 on Parts and Services to qualify for one (1) raffle entry.
On the other hand, Hyundai customers with out-of-warranty Hyundai vehicles will be entitled to one (1) raffle entry and a PHP1,000 discount on their total bill.
To enter, customers will have to fill out an online raffle registration form at the dealership’s service reception counter. The lucky winner of a Hyundai CRETA GLS IVT will be announced on June 1, 2025.
“HMPH is thrilled to be launching its first After Sales promo of the year, giving our loyal customers a chance to win a Hyundai CRETA, while also ensuring the roadworthiness of their vehicles. We at Hyundai remain committed to providing exceptional After Sales service and worry-free ownership experience. This promo is also our way of giving back to our beloved customers for their continued support for the brand.” says HMPI managing director Cecil Capacete.
Mercusys has unveiled its latest Wi-Fi 7 lineup, promising to deliver enhanced connectivity solutions for every Filipino household. These new Wi-Fi 7 routers and mesh networks are designed to provide faster speeds, reduce interference, and elevate the entire internet experience in Filipino homes.
These Wi-Fi 7 devices are built to handle even the most demanding environments. With double the bandwidth, these new Mercusys offerings ensure better network reliability compared to previous mesh and router models.
Upgrade Your Indoor Network with Mercusys Wi-Fi 7
As the need to stay connected increases in every home, Mercusys Wi-Fi 7 offerings are ready to meet these growing demands. These products are designed to improve your indoor network for uninterrupted gaming, and buffer-free streaming. These also come equipped to support the rising number of smart devices with Wi-Fi 7 capabilities and high-bandwidth applications.
Mercusys’ newest Wi-Fi 7 lineup includes the TRI-BAND MR47BE router. It delivers blazing-fast speeds of up to 9.3 Gbps, ensuring non-stop 4K to 8K streaming, immersive gaming, and lightning-fast downloads. Equipped with 320MHz channels, 4K-QAM, and the 6GHz band, this router provides exceptional network performance. Multi-Link Operation (MLO) boosts throughput, reduces latency, and improves reliability. The device has four 2.5G ports to break the 1G bottleneck for peak device performance. With 6 omni-directional, high-gain antennas and Beamforming, users enjoy expanded indoor network coverage, stronger connections, and minimal interference. The router is also EasyMesh-compatible, allowing for a seamless mesh network across your home.
MERCUSYS MR27BE
Another new router offering is the MR27BE which offers fast dual-band speeds of up to 3.6Gbps, enabling smooth 4K to 8K streaming and rapid downloads. Powered by 160MHz channels, 4K-QAM, and MLO, provides improved network performance with increased throughput and reduced latency. Similar to the MR47BE, this router also has 2x 2.5G ports and 2x Gigabit LAN ports and EasyMesh support, ensuring peak network performance across all devices and seamless, whole-home coverage with 4 omni-directional antennas and Beamforming technology. Both routers are easily set-up and managed via the Mercusys app.
MERCUSYS TRI-BAND HALO H47BE
Say goodbye to dead spots in your household with Mercusys’ TRI-BAND Halo H47BE (2-pack) whole-home mesh system. It delivers speeds of up to 5,760Mbps on a 6Ghz band, 2,880 on a 5Ghz band, and 574Mbps on 2.4Ghz, ensuring an exceptional network performance for every corner of the house. With 320Mhz channels, 4K-QAM, and MLO, this mesh system provides reduced latency and improved reliability for modern applications while delivering seamless roaming for a smooth network experience without sudden signal drops. Featuring three 2.5G ports, the mesh supports whole-home, multi-gigabit coverage of spaces up to 6,000ft². This creates a unified network throughout the home. Similar to the routers, the Mercusys app simplifies network management for the mesh system, allowing users to easily set-up their Wi-Fi connection and monitor their kids’ screen time.
Experience Smarter, More Connected Living Today
Mercusys’ Wi-Fi 7 solutions offer a faster, more reliable internet connection that transforms the way you experience digital life at home. Mercusys offers a 3-year warranty on their latest Wi-Fi 7 devices, standing as a testament to the quality and reliability of the product lineup and keeping every member of the household connected without compromise. Built to deliver exceptional performance, Mercusys’ new devices provide non-stop entertainment, lag-free gaming, and a smoother remote work and learning experience.
Whether it’s powering multiple devices or handling high-bandwidth activities, Mercusys’ Wi-Fi 7 lineup ensures robust speeds and stable network connection with a long-lasting warranty.
Pricing and Availability
Get the most out of your indoor connection with the latest Wi-Fi 7 offerings from Mercusys, now available in the Philippines.
MR27BE DUAL-BAND router – PHP4,690
MR47BE TRI-BAND router – PHP11,990,
Halo H47BE TRI-BAND mesh system – PHP21,990.
Visit Mercusys’ website to learn more. Follow Mercusys’ Facebook page to stay updated on the latest releases.
As electricity costs rise and concerns about sustainability grow, global technology leader Epson is committed to helping businesses, schools, and households reduce their energy consumption and environmental impact. With cutting-edge, energy-efficient printing, projection, and scanning innovations, Epson provides cost-effective solutions that deliver exceptional performance while empowering more sustainable choices in everyday life.
“Energy efficiency is at the heart of our approach to innovation,” said Masako Kusama, president and director of Epson Philippines. “By providing solutions that minimize energy use, we help our customers make a positive impact on both their daily activities and the environment.”
Helping Lower Energy Costs with Heat-Free Printing
Traditional printing solutions consume high levels of energy due to the need for heat in the printing process. Epson’s Heat-Free Technology, featured in EcoTank and Business Inkjet printers, eliminates the need for heat during ink ejection, helping reduce power consumption and lowering electricity expenses. Unlike laser printers that require significant energy to fuse toner onto paper, Epson’s inkjet printers use up to 85% less energy, providing a more efficient and budget-friendly alternative.
By removing the need for heat, Epson’s printers not only reduce energy consumption but also extend product longevity, further driving cost savings for users. This innovation allows homes, offices, and businesses to save on operational costs, while also contributing to a reduction in overall environmental impact.
Energy-Efficient Projectors for Schools, Businesses, and Homes
Beyond printing, Epson’s laser projectors offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional lamp-based models. Designed to consume less power while delivering brighter, high-resolution displays, these projectors are ideal for classrooms, offices, and even home entertainment. Schools can enhance interactive learning while conserving electricity use, businesses can create impactful presentations with lower operational costs, and households can enjoy immersive viewing experiences with less energy consumption.
Sustainable and Low-Power Scanning Solutions
Epson’s ReadyScan LED technology eliminates warm-up time and reduces energy consumption, making its scanners a practical choice for organizations and individuals looking to digitize documents efficiently.
In addition, Epson’s scanners provide high-quality scanning with minimal environmental impact. The power-saving feature of these devices ensures that users can maintain high performance while adhering to sustainability goals, creating a seamless balance between productivity and environmental responsibility.
The Social Security System (SSS) announced that it is working to improve services for pensioners, to reduce the interest rate on its salary/calamity loan programs, and to pursue self-employed coverage.
Better service for pensioners
“We are reviewing our guidelines on the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Program to simplify requirements and other verification processes for the convenience of our pensioners,” SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph M. De Claro said.
De Claro has ordered the review to address the sentiments of Philippine-based retirement pensioners who are above 80 years old to ensure their continuous receipt of pension benefits. By the end of 2024, there are 157,493 such pensioners of SSS.
“Our review of the current guidelines include the analysis of age and geographical distribution of pensioners, authorizing additional means for ACOP compliance and using available SSS resources to facilitate compliance such as by conducting home visits to pensioners through our branch or office personnel,” De Claro also said.
Lower interest rate for salary and calamity loans
In the pipeline also for 2025 is the reduction of interest rate on the salary loan and calamity loan programs of SSS. Currently, the interest rate for such loan programs is at 10% per annum.
“Given the consistent, solid performance of SSS’ investment portfolio, it is now timely to revisit the interest rate of our salary and calamity loan programs toward reducing it to increase the cash proceeds from loan applications by qualified SSS members,” De Claro also said.
SSS’ annualized Return on Investment (ROI) from 2021 to 2024 ranged between 5.8% to 6.6%, performing well even through the Covid-19 pandemic.
Pursue coverage of self-employed
“We will also pursue better collection compliance from other groups of workers, particularly self-employed professionals such as accountants, doctors and engineers by meeting with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to discuss opportunities for cooperation and ensure SSS coverage of such workers. Our goal is to make them continue paying SSS contributions while they are gainfully self-employed even if they have reached 120 contributions already,” De Claro also said.
“These plans and programs reiterate our message last month prioritizing service excellence first and foremost while ensuring financial discipline and sustainability through an empowered SSS workforce,” De Claro added.
SSS Management and the Social Security Commission (SSC) will be tackling these plans/programs and ensure implementation within 2025.
HONOR Philippines is proving that tech innovation goes beyond devices; it extends to how brands connect with consumers. Through a bold and data-driven approach to e-commerce, the leading global provider of smart devices has emerged as a standout performer on TikTok Shop, leveraging the platform’s full ecosystem to drive visibility, engagement, and sales.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, HONOR recorded a 1.7x performance increase compared to Q1 to Q3, securing its place among TikTok Shop’s Top 20 brands in the Phones & Tablets category and ranking #13 overall. The brand’s success is rooted in a strategic fusion of product innovation, content creation, and precision advertising, all guided by TikTok Shop’s ACE Indicator System, which focuses on Assortment, Content, and Empowerment to measure and optimize seller performance.
By implementing targeted product drops, viral content strategies, and high-impact ad placements, HONOR achieved a 174% growth in gross merchandise value (GMV) in Q4 2024 compared to the first three quarters of the year. These results highlight the brand’s ability to translate digital engagement into tangible sales, setting a new standard for tech retail in the fast-evolving social commerce landscape.
Driving Sales Through Strategic Product Launches
A key factor in HONOR’s success was its well-timed product launches and compelling offers tailored to TikTok Shop’s unique shopping experience. The introduction of the HONOR X7c during the 11.11 Paskong Panalo Sale served as a major growth driver, amplifying brand visibility during a peak sales period.
In addition, HONOR strengthened its online presence by rolling out exclusive discounts, including 10% off for the HONOR X9b during regular sales and up to 30% off with TikTok Pay Later. TikTok Pay Later is a credit-based payment method available on TikTok Shop, offering customers a “shop now, pay later” experience. Eligible users can access credit limits of up to PHP50,000, repayable in up to 12 installments. This feature allows for flexible payment options, enhancing the shopping experience on TikTok. These incentives boosted sales and positioned HONOR as a top-performing brand within its category.
“We strategically time our product launches to coincide with major sales events, ensuring maximum consumer engagement and higher conversion rates,” said Stephen Cheng, vice president of HONOR Philippines. “By aligning our releases with peak shopping periods, we create heightened anticipation and provide customers with exclusive deals, making our offerings even more compelling. On the other hand, TikTok Shop provides the perfect platform for us to showcase our innovations, offering customers both quality and value in a seamless shopping experience,” Cheng added.
Optimizing product listings also played a crucial role in HONOR’s growth. By strategically highlighting each device’s unique selling points, the brand drove a 114% increase in Shop Tab GMV and a threefold increase in non-affiliate GMV, proving the effectiveness of its organic and affiliate-driven sales strategies.
Engaging Content Fuels Consumer Connection
HONOR Philippines has also leveraged the power of content-driven commerce, turning TikTok Shop into a hub for immersive shopping experiences. The brand conducted daily livestreams, averaging 12 hours per day, to directly engage with potential buyers and build real-time connections.
This commitment to live selling paid off significantly, leading to a 400% increase in Live GMV during the 12.12 Paskong Panalo sale compared to regular business days. Quarter-on-quarter, live selling revenue skyrocketed eightfold, demonstrating the growing consumer demand for interactive and engaging shopping experiences.
Beyond livestreams, HONOR also amplified its presence by participating in viral challenges and trending short-form content, further boosting customer interaction. One of its most successful sessions even recorded a gross profit margin (GPM) of 17.72, proving that highly engaging content translates directly into stronger sales.
Leveraging TikTok Shop’s Tools for Sustained Growth
Beyond content and product strategy, HONOR Philippines has fully embraced TikTok Shop’s advertising and campaign ecosystem to strengthen its digital commerce leadership. The brand actively joined weekly and monthly platform-wide campaigns, reinforcing its commitment to long-term growth.
HONOR also maximized TikTok Shop’s precision-targeted ad formats, including Product Showcase Ads (PSA), Video Shopping Ads (VSA), and Live Shopping Ads (LSA). This investment in digital advertising resulted in a 4.5x increase in return on ad spend (ROAS) and secured HONOR a spot among the top 11 brands in the Phones & Tablets category during the 12.12 sale.
Honor Philippines is taking TikTok Shop by storm, reaching more customers and driving massive growth! 🚀📱 Leading up to the 2.2 Campaign, they’re going LIVE non-stop to showcase their top products, exclusive deals, and exciting surprises. 🎉 📅 Live Schedule: January 27 – February 3 ⏰ Up to 24 HOURS of non-stop streaming! Don’t miss out! #TikTokShopSuccessStory#SellWithTikTokShop#GrowWithTikTokShop
“Our strategic approach to TikTok Shop’s ad solutions has been instrumental in reaching the right audiences and driving impactful results,” Cheng added. “By leveraging data insights and optimizing our campaigns, we’ve strengthened our visibility and customer connections, setting the stage for continuous growth.”
Setting the Standard for Digital Retail Excellence
As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, HONOR Philippines showcases how brands can successfully blend technology, content, and strategic marketing to thrive in the digital marketplace. Through well-timed product launches, immersive livestreams, and data-driven ad placements, the brand has positioned itself as a leader in the competitive smart device industry.
“HONOR Philippines has truly leveraged TikTok Shop to its full potential, using the platform’s unique tools to connect with local consumers in meaningful ways,” said Franco Aligaen, marketing lead at TikTok Shop Philippines. “Their success is a testament to how TikTok Shop empowers local brands, like HONOR, to compete on a global scale by combining innovation with a deep understanding of their audience, whether through live sessions, exclusive promotions, or creative content.”
Beyond its strong numbers, HONOR’s success underscores the transformative power of digital commerce. As the brand continues to refine its approach and expand its reach, it sets a compelling precedent for how businesses can thrive in the ever-evolving world of online retail.
