Filipino innovation took the spotlight as XPRESS Super App announced its inclusion in Forbes Asia’s prestigious “100 to Watch” 2025 list. Selected from thousands of entries across the Asia-Pacific region, the recognition marks XPRESS as one of the most dynamic and promising platforms in the region.
“Recognition was never the goal. Our North Star has always been to create livelihood for drivers and build a multiplier effect—where a single driver can grow into an entrepreneur, hiring and mentoring others,” said XPRESS president Cliff Cabungcal.
At the exclusive media announcement, XPRESS leadership noted that the recognition is both a validation of their rapid growth and a reminder of their larger mission. In photo (L-R): Head of expansion Robert Belda, chief of staff Alyssa Mae Duldulao, CEO Nathan Taylor, and president Cliff Cabungcal.
A Trajectory of Success
Founded in 2023, XPRESS Super App has charted one of the fastest growth stories in Philippine tech. What began as a bold mobility startup has quickly scaled into a multi-vertical super-app connecting Filipinos across transport, lifestyle, and fintech.
Key milestones include:
Mobility Expansion – Operating 2-wheel and 4-wheel ride-hailing in Metro Manila and Bataan, with sustainable e-trike loops in Boracay, and upcoming expansion into Palawan.
Innovation in Green Transport – Pioneering the country’s first electric taxi pilots, pushing clean mobility solutions in step with global sustainability goals.
Upcoming Services – Preparing to roll out XPRESS Eats & Mart, XPAY (a digital wallet with Cebuana Lhuillier), and XPRESS Activities, a lifestyle marketplace linked to tourism.
This trajectory reflects not just market growth but cultural relevance, with XPRESS integrating into the daily lives of Filipinos while creating inclusive opportunities for drivers, partners, and local businesses.
Looking Ahead
XPRESS is preparing a new Metro Manila feature that aims to further strengthen its presence on Philippine roads. Details will be announced soon, but leadership underscored that every innovation is guided by the same vision: making services more accessible, reliable, and proudly Filipino.
CEO Nathan Taylor emphasized that the company’s rise comes from tackling challenges rooted in local realities.
“We’re not just building an app. We’re building a platform Filipinos can own and trust, one that reflects their needs and amplifies their pride,” Taylor said.
Recognition as Validation
For XPRESS, being named to Forbes Asia’s “100 to Watch” list is less of a destination than a milestone. With support from strategic partners like Cebuana Lhuillier, the company is positioned for scale, longevity, and sustained impact.
Cabungcal put it simply: “Being on this list is a milestone, but our journey continues. Guided by our North Star, XPRESS Super App will keep building—bigger, smarter, and always Filipino-first.”
For the last 8 years, Anker has been committed to empowering customers around the globe with energy independence. Anker SOLIX is the brand’s consumer energy series designed to deliver accessible, reliable, and sustainable power solutions to every household. And its latest release, the Anker SOLIX C300 DC, is a step forward, offering ultra-portable options for outdoor adventures.
Electricity powers modern life, but around the world, energy instability and outages are increasingly becoming common. The need for accessible and dependable backup power has never been greater.
While power banks are increasing in size to meet demands for higher capacity and faster charging, power stations are doing the opposite. Thanks to advancements in battery technology and design, power stations are becoming smaller, enabling higher energy density and more efficient use of space. Despite their compact size, power stations are packed with power and can deliver a considerable amount of energy.
The new Anker SOLIX C300 DC is the first of an expanded product line within its Camping Series, offering ultra-portable options for outdoor adventures. It’s designed to provide flexible power for outdoor activities, making it perfect for camping, hiking, and working outdoors with charging at Supercharger speed. It’s well-suited to Filipinos with an active outdoor lifestyle and can power multiple devices like phones, tablets, cameras, laptops, routers, and other devices that utilize either USB or standard DC auxiliary charging ports.
The Anker SOLIX C300 DC is also an excellent home power backup system, providing high-quality electricity during temporary power outages and easing related anxiety.
Ultra-Portable and Versatile Power
With its compact form factor, the Anker SOLIX C300 DC redefines portable power. It is 30% smaller than the industry average, weighing just 6.18 lbs. Thanks to its vertical design, as well as its built-in handle and optional shoulder strap accessory, the C300 DC is the ideal power companion for hiking, cycling, and camping trips. It has a unique pop-up light that offers different levels of soft white light output, making it ideal for multiple situations, including camping, evening beach days or as the perfect backyard companion.
Despite its compact size, the Anker SOLIX C300 DC delivers a powerful 300W output that’s powered by a 288Wh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery (90,000 mAh), which uses iron, phosphate, and lithium as its main components. It’s a more stable and safer type of lithium battery compared to what you’ll find in conventional power banks, and is the same kind of battery found in EVs and Hybrid vehicles. This means you can charge it fully to 100% without any risk of degradation.
The Anker SOLIX C300 DC also offers seven outlets, including two USB-A ports, four USB-C ports (two with 140W Input/Output), and one 120W auxiliary power outlet. This ensures that essential devices stay powered on the go or during outdoor activities.
A large battery capacity used to mean a long charging time—until now. With three recharging modes, including dual 140W USB-C charging, users can recharge the C300 DC to 80% within 60 minutes only, eliminating the need to own multiple chargers and substantially reducing the amount of e-waste created by older chargers. Additionally, it supports 100W solar panels and can be charged with the auxiliary power outlet, ensuring power availability anytime, anywhere.
Price and availability
The Anker SOLIX C300 DC is now available on anker.ph and the official Anker Philippines stores on Shopee and Lazada, and select retailers for PHP12,595.
For more information, visit the brand’s Instagram.
Police eyewear, De Rigo Group’s house brand, has finally landed in Vision Express, with acclaimed actor and producer Zac Efron at the forefront.
True to its mission to make designer brands accessible to more Filipinos, Vision Express, the leading premium optical retailer in the Philippines, has brought Police frames and sunglasses to selected stores nationwide.
“We are ecstatic to bring Police in Vision Express because we believe this is a brand that resonates with Filipinos – bold, passionate, unapologetic. Their new tagline, Audacity Wanted, talks to the Filipino men who exude style and boldness,” shares Vision Express president Neelam Gopwani.
The collection
In a society where having audacity is deemed appalling, Police eyewear embraces it in their Spring/Summer 2025 collection. This boldness is interpreted and expressed through Zac Efron’s multifaceted personality. Efron epitomizes the new kind of man that Police envisions: one with a modern sense of masculinity, mindful of the environment, and capable of reinventing himself while staying true to who he is.
The Police collection reinterprets tradition with an innovative and distinctive design. It is divided into two main segments: Contemporary, which offers original and modern shapes for a fresh and dynamic look, characterized by the application of the “Gothic P” or Police logo.
The second segment, Origins, is inspired by more classic lines and is recognizable by the iconic eagle logo, a tribute to the brand’s historical roots. These are joined by Statement, the line that represents the excellence of the brand, encompassing the most distinctive and exclusive styles.
Acer recently launched the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 – its first Chromebook powered by the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor and featuring an integrated NPU. The premium convertible device combines efficient, AI-powered performance with long battery life, wrapped in a sleek but tough design.
“We are excited to introduce our first Chromebook with the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor, unlocking a new level of AI-powered capabilities that streamline multitasking, content creation, and productivity on an Acer Chromebook,” said James Lin, general manager, notebooks, Acer Inc. “With its powerful performance, AI tools, and robust and premium build, the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 will empower creators, employees, and teachers to create, work, and be productive from anywhere.”
“Leveraging our longstanding collaborative partnership, we have worked closely with Acer and Google to ensure that Chromebook Plus Spin 514 comes with the most advanced on-device AI capabilities currently possible on ChromeOS,” said PD Rajput, associate vice president, client computing and displays at MediaTek. “These experiences, along with the power of the new energy-efficient MediaTek Kompanio Ultra flagship chipset, provide hours upon hours of productivity, gameplay, streaming, and more.”
AI-Driven Performance Optimized for Creativity, Productivity
The new Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 (CP514-5HN) allows consumers to make the most of the latest ChromeOS features. Powered by MediaTek’s most advanced Chromebook processor to date, the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor with an integrated 50 TOPS of AI processing power, the new Chromebook Plus enables on-device generative AI experiences and supports real-time task automation, personalized computing, and secure, offline functionality.
The integrated Arm Immortalis-G925 MC11 GPU ensures compelling graphics performance, so creators stay focused on their editing, rendering, and modeling tasks. In addition, the Kompanio Ultra is incredibly efficient, providing up to 17 hours of battery life – more than a full day of work or school without needing a charger.
The new Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 makes the most of built-in Google AI features so that productivity feels natural whether in searches, workflow integration, writing, or content creation. For example, Smart grouping lets customers organize tabs, documents, and apps by category to prevent having to search through files and websites, while Gallery Image Editing enables on-device AI image editing. A dedicated Quick Insert key provides one-touch access to tools, menus, and other applications, including custom AI image integration. Plus, customers can use Select to search with Lens simply by holding down the launcher to access the feature and quickly identify or get additional information about content in images and videos.
In addition, Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 customers can choose a complimentary 12-month subscription to the Google AI Pro plan, which unlocks higher access to Google’s most capable AI models and features in Gemini, Flow, NotebookLM, and more. Plus, AI Pro includes 2 TB of cloud storage space to use across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.
Durable, Convertible and Ultraportable
The new Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 features a durable design that is military-grade MIL-STD 810H compliant, with an aluminum exterior to help the device withstand daily trials. It can handle drops as high as 122 cm (48 inches) and includes unique extras such as reinforced I/O ports that help stabilize it after repeated use. The convertible design with 360-degree hinges, which have been designed for up to 25,000 open/close cycles, allows the device to be used in four modes so customers can enjoy it in different environment as they move throughout their day; it can be used as a traditional laptop PC, tablet, or in display and tent modes.
Images are crisp and vibrant on the Acer Chromebook Plus’ 14-inch display, while productivity is maximized with touch capabilities and support for a USI 2.0 stylus (sold separately). Users can take advantage of intuitive gesture-based features for notetaking and editing, such as scribbling over words or phrases to delete them, circling text to reposition to a new location, drawing a line between words to add space, or boxing content to copy and paste seamlessly. These smart interactions make working with handwritten notes more fluid and natural. The Acer Chromebook Plus is compatible with any USI 2.0 stylus, giving users the freedom to select the stylus that best suits their needs.
Available with either WQXGA+ (2800×1800) or WUXGA (1920×1200) resolution, the touchscreen display is framed by narrow bezels resulting in an immersive 16:10 aspect ratio. Plus, both options have an anti-fingerprint coating that ensures smudge-free visuals, as well as a Corning Gorilla Glass finish that provides resistance to scratches and damage. The lightweight and sleek Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 weighs only 1.36 kg (2.99 lbs) and is a mere 15.5 mm thin (0.61 inches).
Users Stay Connected and Entertained
Users will always look and sound their best on video calls on the new Acer Chromebook Plus thanks to its webcam, 5MP and 1080p options, with built-in AI video call control tools that automatically enhance clarity and lighting, cancel noise, and blur backgrounds. Plus, share recorded content in up to 12 languages. A built-in privacy shutter and one-click mute options offer added security and convenience. In addition, the dual upward-firing stereo speakers and DTS audio provide rich sound on calls and while enjoying entertainment.
Customers can also keep their devices connected with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 and a range of ports including dual USB Type-C. Customers will stay productive in a range of lighting conditions thanks to the optional backlit keyboard. Finally, the Chromebook Plus features an OceanGlass™ touchpad made from recycled ocean-bound plastic that is comfortable to use and moisture-resistant.
New Chromebox Models Fit an Array of Areas with Abundant Connectivity
Also launched are two new Acer Chromebox models that are ideal choices for environments that need a stationary ChromeOS-based solution, such as school labs, small and medium-sized businesses, customer-facing areas such as lobbies, and in retail stores to power kiosks and digital signage.
The Acer Chromebox CXI6 is streamlined and space-saving yet includes everything for a reliable and fast ChromeOS experience. Powered by up to an Intel® Core™ 7 150U processor, it comes with a wide range of ports to connect multiple displays, peripherals and more. It includes five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports in addition to a USB 3.2 Type-C and dual HDMI ports, so it can support up to four independent monitors – a huge benefit for a range of commercial and educational environments. It also provides fast and stable Internet connections via Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G LAN port, so streaming, online tasks, and work applications load and respond quickly.
Customers looking for another compact desktop solution for their space-constrained environment can choose the Acer Chromebox Mini CXM2. With a fanless design, the new Chromebox runs whisper-quiet while saving serious desk space. Powered by an Intel Core 3 processor N350, the Chromebox provides solid responsiveness and multitasking for everyday performance. The ultra-compact Chromebox Mini CXM2 has all the ports needed for displays and peripherals. It features five USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports in addition to a USB 3.2 Type-C and dual HDMI ports, allowing support for up to three independent monitors.
Mounting and securing the Chromebox CXI6 and Chromebox Mini CXM2 is easy; both new Chromebox lines can be attached to the back of a monitor with the optional VESA mounting kit to save space, or placed freestanding and anchored with a Kensington lock.
Chrome Enterprise Upgrade Available on New Acer Chromebook Plus and Chromeboxes
At the grocery checkout, in a jeepney queue, or while buying merienda from a street vendor—Filipinos are paying differently these days. Coins and bills still change hands, but more often it’s a phone screen hovering over a QR code or tapping a terminal. Cash is still around, but digital payments are quietly taking over more of our daily transactions.
Why Filipinos Are Scanning Instead of Paying with Cash
Ask anyone why they use it, and the answer’s almost always the same—it’s faster. Students on the run, or parents balancing grocery bags, don’t have time to fumble for coins or wait for change.
But there’s more to it than convenience. QR payments have opened the door for millions of Filipinos who don’t keep a bank account. With just a smartphone and an e-wallet, they can pay jeepney fares, settle electricity bills, or shop online—no need for a passbook or a trip to the bank. At the center of this shift is GCash, the country’s leading e-wallet. It counts more than 81 million active users and connects with 2.5 million merchants. Some reports even push the figure up to 94 million, which is practically everyone. Chances are, if you’re not using GCash, the person next to you is.
How QR Codes Took Over the Checkout Counter
Fueling this growth is QR Ph, the national QR payment standard. It acts as a universal code that lets different wallets and banks “speak” to one another. Whether you’re paying through GCash, Maya, or another app, scanning a QR Ph code at a store works the same way.
The system is built on EMV technology—the same security framework used for chip-enabled credit cards. Merchants favor it because it’s cheap and easy to set up, while customers like it for its speed, safety, and the peace of mind that comes with not carrying thick wallets of cash.
Tap to Pay: Taking Cashless Further
QR codes taught people to scan. NFC (Near Field Communication) is teaching them they barely have to lift a finger. This is the technology behind “tap-to-pay”: bring your phone or card close to a terminal, and the payment goes through instantly.
Worldwide, NFC powers Apple Pay and Google Pay. In the Philippines, GCash has introduced its own Tap to Pay, in partnership with Mastercard. For now, it works only on Android phones with NFC support, leaving iPhone users waiting on the sidelines.
Setting it up isn’t rocket science—just switch on NFC, toggle Tap to Pay in the GCash app, and tap at a Mastercard terminal. It works much like a contactless debit card; only this time your phone takes its place.
Users who’ve tried it say the speed is a real advantage, especially in supermarket lines or at train stations. Still, the experience isn’t flawless. Some terminals fail to register the tap, and not every cashier knows what to do when it doesn’t go through. The app also needs to be open and online for each transaction. Even so, the idea of paying with nothing more than a phone tap is a glimpse of what’s coming next.
Apple Pay & Google Pay: Global Players on the Horizon
While GCash is first to bring NFC here, the international players aren’t far behind. Both Apple Pay and Google Pay rely on tokenization—a system that turns your card details into a one-time code—making transactions safer by design.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) recently clarified that these services can operate in the country without a special license. Because they don’t hold customer funds, they aren’t classified as “payment system operators.” That green light means Apple and Google could enter the local market sooner than expected, giving Filipinos more options—especially for international travel and cross-border shopping.
The Benefits Everyone’s Talking About
Cashless payments aren’t just faster than cash; they feel safer, too. QR Ph payments are verified before they go through, while NFC uses tokenization or one-time codes that make it tougher for fraudsters to break in.
They’ve also opened the door for people who don’t have bank accounts. With an e-wallet, anyone can pay bills, shop, or send money. And to keep users engaged, providers throw in perks like cashback, discounts, and raffle promos—little rewards that make everyday payments feel less like chores.
But It’s Not Perfect: The Challenges
The cracks are obvious. No internet, no payment—that’s still the rule in many parts of the country. Then there’s fraud: bogus QR codes, phishing links, and scam payment requests still crop up. Providers are fighting back with app warnings and education drives, but the danger never fully goes away
Merchant readiness is another hurdle. Sometimes the tech works fine—but the cashier doesn’t. Many haven’t been trained for NFC, so the line stalls while everyone figures it out. And while GCash’s Tap to Pay is a big step forward, it currently excludes iOS users. Apple Pay and Google Pay, though cleared by regulators, are still waiting to make their official Philippine debut.
The Road Ahead: A Hybrid Future
Cash won’t disappear anytime soon, but it’s already losing ground to QR and NFC. The future isn’t one or the other—it’s both. Imagine a commuter tapping their phone to ride the MRT, scanning a QR to buy lunch at a carinderia, then tapping again at the supermarket—all in one afternoon, without a second thought.
Soon, Apple Pay and Google Pay will likely roll out locally, GCash’s Tap to Pay will expand to iOS, and offline-ready systems may emerge to cover areas with weak signal.
Cash won’t vanish overnight. But its role is shrinking fast, as QR codes and NFC slowly redefine the way Filipinos move money. For many, the real choice won’t be whether to go cashless—but which way.
Words by Phia Manuell Layoso Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 Issue No. 2
Sun Life, a leading financial services organization, has been recognized with multiple awards at the prestigious 21st Philippine Quill Awards, celebrating excellence in business communication. The recognition comes as Sun Life commemorates its 130th anniversary, underscoring the company’s commitment to impactful communication and financial literacy.
Sun Life received the coveted Excellence Award for two groundbreaking projects: Play for Life, a gamified financial literacy campaign that successfully engaged audiences nationwide, and Sun Talks: Digital Media Edition, a dynamic workshop empowering digital media professionals to champion financial literacy. These initiatives not only fostered greater awareness but also inspired participants to actively support the advocacy of financial wellness.
Additionally, the company earned the Merit Award for Unleash Your Brilliance, an employee branding campaign that showcased Sun Life’s vibrant culture while contributing directly to recruitment success. The campaign highlighted the importance of empowering employees and celebrated their individual contributions to the company’s growth.
“These awards are a testament to Sun Life’s dedication to creating meaningful impact through effective communication,” said Carla Gonzalez-Chong, chief client experience and marketing officer at Sun Life Philippines. “As we celebrate our 130th anniversary, we’re eager to create more programs that will ultimately help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives.”
The Philippine Quill Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, is one of the country’s most prestigious award-giving bodies in the field of business communication.
foodpanda has launched ‘PRO Weeks,’ a limited-time savings event from September 1 to 15, offering exclusive deals and up to 50% off for its pandapro subscribers. The two-week campaign provides members with significant discounts and free delivery on food, groceries, and shop items from popular partners.
“Our goal with pandapro is to make ordering online more affordable and convenient for our customers,” said Pat Jacinto, growth and marketing director of foodpanda Philippines. “PRO Weeks is our way of providing even greater value on the meals and essentials people already love, reinforcing why a pandapro membership is the smartest way to save.”
The “PRO Weeks” promotion from foodpanda is designed to showcase the extensive benefits of a pandapro subscription. While pandapro members already enjoy year-round perks like free delivery and exclusive vouchers from thousands of restaurants and stores, this limited-time event takes the savings even further.
During “PRO Weeks,” subscribers will be able to get up to 50% off on select food and grocery vendors, including deliveries from a wide range of restaurants and items from Pandamart. Additionally, shops will feature exclusive discounts, such as a PHP140 discount at Robinsons Supermarket and PHP100 off at Puregold, plus members will have access to exclusive, stackable vouchers and special bundles.
foodpanda’s PRO Weeks campaign is designed to reward existing members and encourage new users to join and unlock instant access to discounts and year-round perks.
For as low as PHP33.30 per month with the 12-month plan, users can subscribe to pandapro in just a few taps: open the foodpanda app, go to the pandapro section, choose a plan, then proceed to checkout to select a payment method and confirm.
With up to 50% off, free delivery, and exclusive vouchers, this proves that being a pandapro subscriber truly pays off. So whether it’s your favorite fast food, grocery staples, or a midnight snack, don’t just order—order smarter with foodpanda.
The Yamaha Philippines Racing Team once again showcased their grit, passion, and determination at the Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) Round 4 in Mandalika, Indonesia. Battling intense competition and unpredictable race conditions, the team’s riders proved their resilience on the international stage, bringing pride to the country as they continue their campaign for excellence.
The Wonderboy Strikes with Consistency in SS600
McKinley Kyle “The Wonderboy” Paz delivered another outstanding performance in the SS600 Category, displaying the consistency that has made him one of the region’s most respected riders. Starting from P12 on the grid, Paz charged through the pack to secure back-to-back P6 finishes in Race 1 and Race 2. He has improved his overall standing from 7th place to 5th place.
These results not only highlight Paz’s ability to adapt and fight in a highly competitive field, but also crucially helped his Yamaha Hong Leong Racing Team maintain their position at the top of the overall SS600 standings. His steady podium-chasing pace proves that the Filipino racing spirit thrives against the best in Asia.
The Android Delivers Double Points in UB150
In the UB150 Category, EJ “The Android” Sobretodo showed his trademark discipline and consistency. From a P22 grid start, Sobretodo battled fiercely across both races, securing P12 finishes in Race 1 and Race 2.
His back-to-back points finishes not only reflect his growing momentum in the championship but also strengthen the team’s overall standing in the highly competitive underbone class.
The Rocket’s Fighting Spirit
For April King “The Rocket” Mascardo, the weekend brought challenges. After a DNF in Race 1 and a P24 finish in Race 2 from P31 on the grid, Mascardo’s results did not reflect the effort and determination he displayed on track. Despite setbacks, Mascardo’s fighting spirit remains intact, a reminder that every race is a chance to rise and come back stronger.
Racing with Purpose
Each round of ARRC is more than a competition, it is a testament to the Filipino rider’s passion, skill, and unyielding heart. As the Yamaha Philippines Racing Team pushes forward in the 2025 season, the focus remains clear: to represent the country with pride, to compete with integrity, and to inspire the next generation of riders to chase their dreams.
The journey continues, and with The Wonderboy, The Android, and The Rocket leading the charge, Yamaha Philippines Racing Team is ready for every challenge that lies ahead.
Stay Connected and catch Round 5 of the ARRC on October 10-12, 2025, at PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia
A spectacular new chapter in smartphone innovation was unveiled at Shangri-La The Fort as vivo Philippines officially launched the highly anticipated vivo V60, a flagship that fuses pro-level portrait photography with stylish design.
The event first showcased the V60’s stunning colorways, which are Berry Purple, Summer Blue, and Mist Gray, through a captivating runway performance led by Max Collins, Nicole Cordoves, and a group of elegant models.
Guiding the night of fashion, technology, and entertainment were charismatic hosts KC Montero and Nicole.
A decade of innovation: vivo’s 10th Anniversary
In her opening speech, Lulu Liu, director of brand marketing at vivo Philippines, emphasized the brand’s culture of gratitude, reflection, and ambition.
“Tonight is more than an anniversary. It’s about looking back with gratitude, standing here with pride, and looking forward with confidence. The vivo V60 is our gift to you — a statement of how far we’ve come, and where we are going,” said Liu.
Keshav Chugh Senior Product Manager, vivo Global Franziska Hoffmann Brand Partnerships Manager, ZEISS Photonics & Optics
Franziska Hoffmann from ZEISS Photonics & Optics reinforced the brand’s partnership with vivo, highlighting how their collaboration has brought professional-grade portrait and telephoto technology to everyday users. She also highlighted that both ZEISS and vivo were brought together by their philosophy of putting users first.
Keshav Chugh from vivo Global, detailed the V60’s design inspiration, AI-powered imaging tools, and performance upgrades, showcasing how the smartphone transforms ordinary snapshots into extraordinary portraits.
Star-studded performance and games
The evening was not only about technology. It was about the people who brought it to life.
At the heart of it all is vivo’s brand ambassador, Marian Rivera, who surprised the audience with a dazzling dance number, later sharing her personal journey with vivo that connected seamlessly with the Kwentong Syete campaign.
Later on, they awarded the Kwentong Syete winners, wherein two received vivo TWS 3e, and one received a brand new vivo V60!
She became not just the ambassador of the night but the beating heart of the celebration, leading games, awarding winners, and bringing fans closer to the brand.
Max joined Marian after her striking runway showcase, returned with a spirited performance and game participation, showing that the V60 is not only sleek but also an emblem of lifestyle and self-expression.
Vinci of HORI7ON, commanding both stage and spotlight, led his team during interactive games and shared the magic of the V60’s telephoto power. At the same time, his group delivered unforgettable performances that ignited the room.
HORI7ON, as a whole group, also brought boundless energy, bridging technology with pop culture, and solidifying vivo’s bond with the new generation of Filipino fans.
Each star was more than a guest. Each was a storyteller who revealed how the vivo V60 turns moments into memories.
Marian Rivera’s iconic goddess entrance
Just when the crowd thought the night couldn’t get any more magical, the ballroom lights dimmed, and anticipation filled the air. The doors opened, and in a breathtaking moment of glamor, Marian made her stunning entrance as she officially introduced the vivo V60 to the crowd.
Marian walked with poise and elegance, embodying the spirit of the vivo V60 powerful, graceful, and timeless. As she reached the stage, she raised the vivo V60 high, sealing the device’s official launch in the Philippines. The audience erupted in applause, their cameras flashing as they captured the moment on their own vivo phones.
Marian’s entrance was a celebration of beauty, innovation, and the shared journey between vivo and its loyal Filipino fans over the past 10 years. It was the perfect crescendo to a night filled with excitement, artistry, and groundbreaking technology.
Official pricing and pre-order
To cap the night, Hazel Bascon, vice president of sales at vivo Philippines, revealed the official pricing:
vivo V60 12GB+256GB – PHP28,999
vivo V60 12GB+512GB – PHP30,999
Exclusive pre-order offers include up to PHP2,000 discounts, 0% installment plans, a vivo VIP Card with premium after-sales services, and complimentary vivo Buds. Pre-orders run until September 12, 2025, in all vivo concept stores, kiosks, and authorized dealers nationwide.
Acer recently announced the new Swift Air 16 (SFA16-61M), the latest addition to its thin-and-light Swift laptop lineup. Developed for professionals who work on the go, the new model brings a compelling blend of cutting-edge AI computing, immersive visuals, and incredibly impressive design, resulting in a featherlight feel.
At the core of the Swift Air 16 is the latest generation of AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 Series processors, featuring up to an AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor, enabling seamless execution of local AI applications and enhanced responsiveness while maintaining low power consumption. Equipped with powerful AMD processors, Swift Air 16 ensures robust performance for video conferencing, streaming, editing, and creative workflows.
As a Copilot+ PC, the Swift Air 16 unlocks access to unique AI experiences such as Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview), and Improved Windows Search to streamline collaboration, content creation, and productivity. Users also benefit from swift boot times, ample file storage, and smooth performance across demanding applications.
The Swift Air 16 is built for those who travel frequently and value mobility without compromising performance. The laptop’s elegant chassis is crafted from magnesium-aluminum alloy, offering reliable durability while keeping the weight under 1 kilogram1 (2.18 pounds), making it one of the lightest 16-inch laptops available. Plus, the device is available in four color profiles and fits effortlessly into any work setting, from coffee shops and co-working spaces to boardrooms.
Users can choose between a 16-inch WQXGA+ AMOLED with a 120 Hz refresh rate or a WUXGA IPS display with a 60 Hz refresh rate option and a 16:10 aspect ratio for wide viewing and work space. The AMOLED option brings deep blacks, vivid colors, and exceptional clarity with full support for the DCI-P3 color gamut and 400 nits peak brightness – ideal for designers and freelancers.
Additional features include a 2MP FHD IR camera with privacy shutter, enabling secure facial recognition via Windows Hello and delivering crystal-clear video calls even in low-light conditions. The device is also equipped with dual speakers and dual microphones for immersive audio quality.
The Swift Air 16 hosts versatile connectivity options for peripherals and external displays. It comes with two full-function USB Type-C ports, USB 3.2 Type-A, and HDMI 1.4 with HDCP support. Wireless support includes Wi-Fi 6E and the latest Bluetooth standard, providing fast and stable connections wherever possible.
Pricing and Availability
Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications, and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.
Whether you’re a student renting a small dorm room, a family juggling remote work and online classes, or a budding entrepreneur running a home-based café or a small food kiosk, you need reliable connectivity. Smart Home WiFi delivers just that, enabling subscribers to do more with its value-packed devices and data promo subscriptions.
Powered by Smart’s superior 5G network, Smart Home WiFi’s latest device, the Smart 5G Max Home WiFi, is a plug-and-play WiFi router that offers a simple but powerful solution for anyone needing high-speed connectivity without the hassle of fiber installation or long-term contracts.
You can get it at 50% OFF for only PHP2,495 and it already comes with free UNLI DATA for 15 days. Smart 5G Max Home WiFi is compatible with Smart’s UNLI and BIG DATA prepaid offers — ideal for all your internet needs from daily video calls to streaming K-dramas and movies in high definition.
Internet for families anytime, anywhere
In areas where there are no fiber internet facilities, the Smart 5G Max Home WiFi has become a game-changer. For families, it’s an instant upgrade — no waiting, no drilling, no complicated setup. Parents can continue working uninterrupted while kids stream, play online games, or do school research, all at the same time.
Smart Home WiFi’s Unli 1299 promo has the entire family covered with unlimited data valid for 30 days.
Reliable connectivity for students, young professionals
If you’re a student or a young professional living in a dorm, shared space, or temporary home, Smart Home WiFi offers freedom and flexibility. Since it’s prepaid and reloadable, there is no bill shock because you only pay for what you need. And because there’s no lock-in period, the Smart Home WiFi flexibly moves with you, whether you’re switching apartments or headed home for the weekend.
Even better, it keeps you connected to what matters most — be it an online lecture, a favorite series, or a late-night video call with family.
For students looking to stay on top of their schoolwork, there’s the new Big Data 99 with 15 GB total data (12GB all access data + 1GB per day, valid for 3 days). Subscribers may also opt for Big Data 199 with 52 GB (45GB + 1GB daily) for 7 days for higher data and longer validity.
Small business, big connection starts at PHP499
For micro-entrepreneurs, connectivity can make or break a day. From digital payments to customer WiFi access, Smart 5G Max Home WiFi ensures your business stays online — and your customers stay happy. It can connect multiple devices from Point-of-Sale (POS) systems, 24/7 CCTV monitoring and livestream selling, yet simple enough to set up on your own.
Pair it with the new Big Data PHP499, which offers a total of 120GB (105GB base + 1GB daily for 15 days), or go bigger with Big Data PHP999, delivering 250GB (220GB base + 1GB daily for 30 days)—two of Smart’s most generous data packages and you’ve got a powerhouse tool that supports your grind, boosts your business by providing shareable data for customers and staff.
It’s also a smart choice for side hustlers — whether you’re selling products via livestream or managing your online orders. With its shareable connection and flexible data packages, it’s the kind of connectivity tool that keeps productivity up and downtime low.
Even better, these promos and packages are available not just to new Smart Home WiFi users, but also to existing subscribers of PLDT Prepaid Home WiFi 5G+ and LTE.
Powered by Smart 5G MAX
Smart Home WiFi is powered by Smart’s superior 5G network, which provides ultra-fast speeds for effortless video streaming, rapid file uploads and downloads, instant online posting, and lag-free mobile gaming.
The Smart 5G Max Home WiFi available on the Smart Online Store, as well as Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop, and Smart Stores nationwide.
Just plug it in and top up with your preferred data offer via the Smart App, Smart Online Store, favorite e-wallets, or your go-to accredited retailers nationwide.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has named Grab as aDigital Tourism Partner, tapping the superapp’s technology and vast network of highly engaged users across the country to modernize food tourism and improve inter-city travel across the Philippines.
Formalized through a memorandum of agreement, the partnership focuses on two priorities: (1) elevating Philippine gastronomy as a key tourism driver, and (2) improving travel connectivity between gateway hubs and various cities.
“At Grab, our suite of safe, reliable, and convenient services is reshaping how people explore the destinations they visit – making it easier for travelers to reach both cultural highlights and hidden gems,” said Grab Philippines vice president for cities CJ Lacsican. “This partnership fuels tourism and creates multiplier effect growth for small businesses, from community restaurants to less explored attractions.”
DOT highlighted that through this collaboration, the agency and Grab are shaping a more inclusive, tech-enabled future for Philippine tourism. “This partnership with Grab underscores our commitment to harnessing digital platforms to make Philippine tourism more inclusive, accessible, and future-ready,” said Sharlene Zabala-Batin, DOT assistant secretary for tourism digitalization and resource generation. “By smoothly integrating mobility and gastronomy into the travel experience, we are not only enriching how travelers discover our country but also opening greater opportunities for small businesses and local communities that form the backbone of our tourism value chain.”
Opening Access to Must-Try Food Experiences
Grab is also widening access to local food culture through initiatives designed to complement the Department of Tourism’s gastronomy push. Grab Dine Out, available in Metro Manila and newly launched in Boracay, offers exclusive dine-in discounts, directing foot traffic to beloved spots and hidden favorites in key tourism hubs.
At the same time, GrabFood 5-Star Eats, Grab’s community-approved food guide, shines a spotlight on must-try, homegrown, often under-the-radar culinary gems — boosting visibility and demand for MSMEs.
GrabFood For One makes culinary exploration more inclusive with curated solo meals starting at PHP150 with free delivery, allowing travelers and locals alike to experience authentic flavors on any budget.
Together, these programs create accessible food experiences while strengthening the tourism value chain and aligning with DOT’s goal of making gastronomy a central pillar of Philippine tourism.
Strengthening Inter-City Travel
Grab is also elevating mobility access to strengthen inter-city tourism and ease travel between key destinations. Through Advance Booking, travelers can schedule airport rides as early as 90 days and as close as 1 hour and 15 minutes before pick-up — guaranteeing on-time departures and reducing the risks of last-minute delays. The feature is designed to provide both leisure and business travelers with added certainty and efficiency in managing their trips.
Meanwhile, the standard GrabCar service gives passengers the option of 4-seater or 6-seater vehicles for intra- and inter-city travel. GrabCar sets the standard for modern mobility with upfront and transparent pricing, highly trained professional drivers, and an array of safety features. Designed to deliver a seamless experience, GrabCar champions safety, fairness, and convenience, providing mobility solutions for solo riders, families, and groups alike.
Grab’s mobility footprint now covers eight major airports nationwide, including Bohol, Cebu, and Davao, ensuring that arriving travelers have immediate access to safe and reliable transport options.
If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a sleek black credit card, here’s the truth: most of them come with sky-high income requirements or enough paperwork to kill the vibe. But plot twist: Maya Black Credit Card is rewriting the rules and making the black card experience accessible.
Maya Black is rewriting what a credit card should be. It’s sleek, numberless, and fully controlled in-app. Built for the experience generation, it turns everyday spending into perks: instant Maya Miles, airport lounge access, and next-level security features. Whether it’s your morning latte or a spontaneous flight, Maya Black makes every spend go further.
Credit Made Possible with Maya Black Express
For first-time cardholders and those rebuilding credit, Maya Black Express makes it simple to start. Instead of settling for a “starter card” with limited perks, you simply place an Express Deposit (that actually earns 3.5% interest) to set your credit limit. From day one, you unlock the full Maya Black experience.
More than just access, Maya Black Express helps you build your credit profile smartly. With responsible use, your card becomes a stepping stone to even bigger credit, better perks, and financial freedom. Here are some easy tips to start:
Start where you are. Your deposit-backed limit makes sure you’re not overspending while still building credit history.
Use it, but don’t max it. According to TransUnion, it’s best to keep your credit usage ideally 30% or less of your credit limit. If your limit is PHP10,000, keeping your balance around PHP3,000 (or less) shows you’re in control.
Consistency is king. Paying on time is the #1 factor in boosting your score. Maya Black makes this easy with app reminders and instant in-app control.
Do these right, and suddenly your card isn’t just a payment tool. With Maya Black, building good habits and boosting your score isn’t intimidating, it’s your starting line to the experiences you’ve been working toward.
Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated.
Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Deposits are insured by PDIC up to PHP1-million per depositor.
A lot has changed in the world of fintech since I started writing for Gadgets Magazine. It’s been one of the fastest-moving tech sectors over the past six years, marked by rapid innovation and widespread adoption.
Five years ago, I set out to try to live a cashless lifestyle, spending months relying solely on card payments, e-wallets, and app-based transactions. At the time, cash was still king, and digital payment options were niche, often buggy and inconsistent. What I discovered then was that the infrastructure was already in place, but something was still holding it back.
Fast forward to today: digital payments are now widely accepted and deeply integrated into everyday life. This shift was driven by several factors: the pandemic, increased recognition of fintech’s potential, and its seamless incorporation into daily routines.
The growth of fintech solutions, while initially gradual, accelerated dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic. With physical distancing a necessity, e-wallets quickly became mainstream. What was once a secondary payment method began sharing the spotlight with cash.
Instant payments and real-time money transfers fueled not just major retail transactions but also everyday exchanges—small loans (utang), wages, and even quick overseas remittances. Government support played a key role, encouraging establishments to adopt e-wallets and other digital payment platforms to minimize physical contact.
Fintech’s Role in a Digital Economy
Fintech companies rose to the occasion, rapidly upgrading their infrastructure and features. E-wallets like Maya and GCash made integration with businesses easier. Banks waived transfer fees to promote cashless transactions, and e-commerce platforms expanded their payment options to encourage digital adoption.
Telcos also contributed to fintech’s growth. The rollout of 5G, which began shortly before the pandemic, provided faster and more stable mobile connections, addressing one of the early barriers to adoption.
The convenience of cashless payments helped cement fintech’s place in everyday life. First-time users during the pandemic continued using these platforms well beyond the crisis.
Beyond e-wallets, Online Lending Apps (OLAs) and micro-financing platforms became lifelines for Filipinos facing financial hardship. OLAs provided quick access to emergency loans, while Buy Now, Pay Later schemes allowed consumers to meet urgent needs without immediate payment.
Fintech and the Government
Government support has been instrumental in sustaining fintech adoption post-pandemic. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) set a target for 50% of retail transactions to be digital by 2023. That goal was surpassed, with digital payments accounting for 52.8% by the end of 2023 and rising to 57.4% in 2024, well above the year’s target.
One major initiative was QR Ph, a unified QR payment system that integrates various digital platforms and e-wallets into a secure, inclusive network.
More recently, the BSP approved the use of mobile NFC payment solutions. Banking apps now support tap-to-pay transactions in select retail stores using a phone’s NFC connection. GCash has also received approval to implement NFC payments within its app.
The BSP further allowed Apple Pay and Google Pay to operate their NFC payment systems in the Philippines without requiring registration with the central bank. These global platforms bring advanced security and convenience to local users.
Governmental Integration
Beyond the BSP’s initiatives, the broader government has embraced fintech in its operations. From internal disbursements to accepting e-wallet payments for government fees, fintech is helping streamline public services.
Fintech has also been integrated into eGovPH, the central government app designed to consolidate various services. Users can now pay taxes, renew licenses, and even settle traffic violation fees through e-wallets and online banking.
One of the most notable developments is the integration of digital payments into public transportation, including the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and select bus routes—with more expected to follow.
Government adoption of fintech signals that the technology is here to stay. While its current role is largely focused on payments, the possibilities are expanding. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are being explored, and cryptocurrency is gradually being regulated as a financial asset.
The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: fintech will continue to evolve and play a vital role in our increasingly digital economy.
Words by Gabriel John Pe Also published in GADGETS MAGAZINE Volume 26 Issue No. 2
PLDT Inc. is set to activate the Philippines’ first three Google Taara laser communication sites, bringing breakthrough technology that delivers fiber-like connectivity without the need for undersea or underground cables.
Developed by Google’s X Moonshot Factory, Taara uses beams of light to transmit data across long distances, similar to fiber optics but without the physical cable. Each site is capable of delivering up to 20 Gbps of capacity—enough to provide high-speed internet for thousands of users.
The first installations are at Talim Island in Rizal, Dipaluda in Isabela, and Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City. On Talim Island, the technology spans an 11.8-kilometer stretch across Laguna de Bay, linking the island to the mainland. In Dipaluda, Isabela, the Taara system covers 13 kilometers of mountainous terrain where rolling out fiber is costly and logistically challenging. In Bagong Pag-asa QC, the Taara system will be used provide alternative route and resolve single point of failure (SPOF) issues.
“This is a game-changer for us in connecting remote areas,” said Butch Jimenez, PLDT chief operating officer and head of network. “It makes it easier to provide fiber-like internet to new areas. And we’re excited for the people of Talim Island and Dipaluda to enjoy the benefits of FTTH connectivity.”
“We’ve evaluated this technology for over a year,” added Erick Santiago, PLDT-Smart head of network strategy. “We’re proud of our Network team, who made it possible for us to launch this while others are just announcing their testing phase.”
Beyond speed, Taara also presents significant cost savings compared to traditional infrastructure. For Talim Island, deploying Taara avoids the high expense of laying fiber optic cables underwater, while in Dipaluda it bypasses the challenges of installing fiber across rivers and mountains.
These sites mark the start of PLDT’s larger plan to explore laser-based connectivity as a complement to its nationwide fiber network, especially in hard-to-reach areas such as islands, lakesides, and rugged inland communities.
With Taara, PLDT strengthens its leadership in digital inclusion, ensuring that more Filipinos—even in the most remote areas—can access reliable, high-speed internet.
