In a continuing effort to empower the next generation of automotive professionals, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) has once again demonstrated its commitment to enhancing technical education in the Philippines.
The donation, led by IPC president Tetsuya Fujita, includes a new Tire Changer, Wheel Balancer, and Tools Drawer, completing the facility’s setup with top-of-the-line tools that are within industry standards. An initiative that is part of IPC’s ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts aimed at improving the competency of future service technicians in the country.
“This collaboration aligns with our commitment to corporate social responsibility and our vision of fostering technical education and skills development in the automotive sector. It’s fulfilling to see the positive impact our contributions have made, and we are motivated to continue supporting educational initiatives that align with our values,” said IPC president Tetsuya Fujita.
Since 2017, IPC has been a dedicated partner to JZGMSAT, previously donating essential equipment such as computers, mock engines, and automotive lifters. The company has also facilitated specialized training in diesel technology, sharing with the students Isuzu’s expertise with invaluable hands-on experience using advanced automotive equipment. These contributions have significantly enhanced the school’s educational offerings, giving its students a competitive edge in the automotive industry.
On their part, the Regional Director for TESDA IV-A, Dir. Archie Grande stressed the importance of partnering with companies sharing the same values, “Our success is deeply intertwined with the support and collaboration of our industry partners. Companies like Isuzu Philippines, who understand the value of investing in human capital are crucial in bridging the gap between education and industry needs,” he said.
Looking ahead, IPC plans to expand its partnerships with more educational institutions across the country. The company believes that by investing in education and skill development, it can create lasting positive impacts on society and contribute to the overall progress of the automotive industry in the Philippines.
“Our CSR initiatives are designed to align with our business objectives while addressing the needs of the community, and we are committed to continuing this path. Our focus will always be on empowering the next generation of automotive professionals and contributing to the growth of the industry in the Philippines,” Fujita added.
It’s never too late to arrange yet another travel plan this year, as the much-awaited new edition of the BPI Awesome Travel Fair is coming your way with great, more affordable travel deals.
Happening from September 13 to 15 at the Glorietta Activity Center, the BPI Awesome Travel Fair—now on its fifth staging—brings together more than 20 exhibitors composed of airlines and travel agencies that will be on-ground at the Glorietta Activity Center, including Philippine Airlines, China Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Saudia, Gulf Air, Japan Airlines, United Airlines, Asiana Airlines, AirSWIFT, as well as Universal Holidays, Ark Travel, Rajah Travel, El Nido & Huni Records, Executive Resources Cruises, among many others.
BPI Awesome Travel Fair presents offers from partner airlines and travel agencies, exclusively for BPI banking clients and cardholders who may want to create more travel memories late in the year and take advantage of the exciting offers. Entrance to the travel fair is free when visitors present their BPI Credit or Debit card, or their Robinsons Bank Credit or Debit card.
Great deals start with low and discounted fares from travel exhibitors:
Real 0% Special Installment Plan for select exhibitors during the event, with a 100% Bonus Madness Limit for qualified BPI Cardholders and Buy Now, Pay Later (up to 3 months) for select merchants
Installment payment terms with minimal monthly add-on fee for select partners during the event
1.85% foreign exchange conversion rate when booking airline tickets, shopping abroad, or buying from online international stores for BPI Credit Cards
Free Travel Insurance for select BPI Credit Cards
0% installment for up to six months on airline ticket purchase using Platinum Rewards Mastercard
Special offers are up for grabs for cardholders who can also convert their straight purchases, for a minimum spend, to flexible payment terms through balance conversion. For a minimum spend of Php 5,000 using a BPI Credit, Debit, or Prepaid Card, they can also avail of exciting giveaways.
The good news is the BPI Awesome Travel Fair and all its travel deals will also be available online from September 12-30, 2024 so travel enthusiasts can book from the comfort of their homes. Awesome deals from Emirates, China Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, United Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Qatar Airways, AirSWIFT, AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Agoda await those joining the online BPI Awesome Travel Fair.
Do not miss these exciting travel deals. Be there on-ground or online for the BPI Awesome Travel Fair coming your way this September.
Acer unveiled two new projectors in its eco-friendly Vero product line, the Acer Vero PD2528ic and the Acer Vero PD2328. Both projectors are designed to equip businesses and consumers with high-performance, energy-efficient technology, making these excellent choices for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint.
Stunning Image and Color Projection with Gen 4 LED Lighting Technology
The latest Gen 4 LED light source enhances the brightness of the new Acer Vero PD2 Series projectors by up to 18.5% compared to the previous generation, allowing for high-light output of up to 3,700 ANSI lumens and making them great options for home cinema or meeting room setups. These deliver excellent color performance with support for 120% of the REC 709 color space and offer 1.5 times wider coverage compared to traditional lamp-based projectors. Plus, their 0.65-inch DMD chip power their high and dynamic contrast ratios of 50,000:1 for vibrant visuals and image quality, even when showing low-light frames.
The Acer Vero PD2328 is available with a WXGA (1280×800) resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, and 3,700 lumens of brightness, while the Acer Vero PD2528ic features an FHD (1920×1080) resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, and 3,200 ANSI lumens. Acer LumiSense technology helps bring content to life, even in dark settings. Color-boosting technologies such as Acer ColorPurity+, ColorBoostLED, and ColorSafe II deliver consistent, natural, and vivid colors for more expressive displays, plus LED Color Saturation and help reproduce true-to-life color balance. Acer’s BluelightShield also mitigates the negative effects of potential blue light exposure and helps protect the eyes from damage or straining.
Environmentally and Economically Friendly
These projectors feature Acer EcoProjection technology, which ultimately helps save on power consumption and replacement costs. The devices automatically enter Eco mode and dim the light source to 60% power when no input signal is detected and perform a safety shutdown after a certain period of inactivity. These projectors are lamp and mercury-free, helping extend their lifespan to up to 30,000 hours and improve energy efficiency by up to 42% compared to lamp-based models. They also incorporate 50% PCR plastic on the chassis and 100% recyclable packaging.
Acer-Vero-PD2528ic
Greater Usability and Functionality
The PD2 Series Vero projectors are lightweight and compact, reflecting their light impact on the environment. Weighing just 2.6kg and 11.8-inches in width, these can easily fit into any space or be mounted on any docking station at home or at work.
The Vero PD258ic is shipped with wireless projection and screen mirroring capabilities with an Acer wireless dongle built in. Users can enjoy quick and seamless screen mirroring from a smartphone or PC without the need to install additional apps.
Being highly durable, both projectors can withstand 24 hours of continuous projection during a prolonged period of use, especially useful for public displays or museum exhibitions. Acer’s new Vero projectors also come with a built-in 10 W speaker, providing powerful sound and eliminating the need for external audio devices. Paired with HDMI 3D support, movies, and games come to life with greater depth and more engaging stereoscopic visuals.
Installation is easy and flexible with Auto Keystone Correction, which automatically fixes vertical distortions, and the Auto Celling Mount gravity sensor that detects the projectors’ mounted positioning and instantly rotates projected images by 180o to ensure the correct orientation.
Low Total Cost of Ownership
Compared with traditional lamp-based projectors, the Acer Vero LED projectors offer a lower total cost of ownership. Since they are lamp-free, this eliminates the need for lamp replacements throughout their life cycle. Thanks to the sealed engine design, the projectors’ internal systems are protected from dust damage, helping save on cleaning and repair fees as well.
Pricing and Availability
Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices, contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.
Staring a career may feel like it’s all too overwhelming — things are already highly competitive, and now, AI is entering the picture. It is not uncommon to hear about entry-level office jobs being threatened by the emergence of AI, but this may not be the right way to look at things.
When computers first emerged, similar opinions were circulating. However, these machines did not replace human jobs; instead, they became valuable tools for employees. AI might be viewed in the same light, offering opportunities to learn how to use it to one’s advantage and prepare for future job markets. To take full advantage of the latest advancements in AI, one needs the right tools. Ready to take that career to the next level? Here are the AI PC features to look out for.
AI-Readiness
The first step is to check whether the laptop is an AI PC. The easiest way to do so is to look at the processor. If the CPU features a neural processing unit (NPU), it’s well-positioned to handle AI processes. Options can include most of the latest-generation Intel Core Ultra series processors, the latest laptop CPU offerings from AMD, featuring AMD Ryzen AI, or the Snapdragon processors.
When choosing an AI-powered CPU, consider the TOPS (trillion operations per second) number under its NPU in the specifications table. The ideal is 40 TOPS or more. It would be much better if the laptop were described as a Copilot+ PC. That means the laptop is designed to provide next-level AI experiences with enhanced security, speed, and personalization options. These laptops feature the latest, most up-to-date version of Copilot — the personal AI assistant from Microsoft. They have a dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard and have easy access to Copilot+ features, such as Live Captions, Cocreator, and more.
The latest AI PCs from ASUS also feature a whole lineup of ASUS-exclusive AI-powered smart tools that make all user experiences pleasant. These include the new ASUS StoryCube, ASUS Two-Way AI Noise Cancelation, and ASUS Adaptive Dimming and Adaptive Lock.
Performance for Any Task
Aside from handling AI, the laptop will also need to do well with many other everyday tasks, such as browsing the internet, word processing, or videoconferencing. Depending on the job type, users may also be required to handle slightly heavier tasks, e.g., running creative apps for image or video editing. Additionally, ample storage for large files is a must.
A laptop well-positioned to handle most work tasks will have an exceptional CPU – like an Intel Core Ultra, a latest-generation AMD Ryzen AI 300, or the all-new Snapdragon processors. All the CPUs mentioned above feature NPUs for AI processing and integrated GPUs ready for most everyday tasks, multimedia editing, or light gaming. At least 16 GB of RAM should be used as a solid minimum. Plus, having ample storage space, preferably 1 TB or more, is advisable.
Flexibility for Working Anywhere
The lighter and thinner the laptop, the easier it is to take anywhere. ASUS offers multiple AI PCs that weigh 1.5 kg or less and have a thin profile of around 1.5 cm or less—perfect for on-the-go lifestyles. When it comes to screen size, something like 15.6 – 16 inches proves to be a sweet spot, with plenty of space to work comfortably but nothing too large.
A robust and long-lasting battery is essential to ensure uninterrupted work from any location. The new ASUS AI PCs provide up to at least 18 hours of seamless productivity on a single charge. This allows users to get through the entire workday without carrying a charger, enabling them to travel light and still have enough power for entertainment during their commute home.
Users need diverse I/O ports to fully utilize any workspace, whether at home, in the office, in a coworking space, or a cafe. They should seek a combination of USB4 (preferably with power delivery and display support), USB 3.2 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 slot, and an audio jack. A laptop with a MicroSD card reader is also highly beneficial, particularly for those working with photography or video footage.
ASUS AI PC that Breaks the Barriers
ASUS Vivobook S 15 is the first ASUS Copilot+ PC. Powered by the all-new Snapdragon X Plus processors and with the latest version of the Windows OS and ASUS AI-powered apps, this 15.6-inch laptop offers up to over 19 hours of battery life. The powerful battery and components fit into a 1.47 cm thin, 1.42 kg light chassis with an impressive 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display. It’s a perfect machine for those wishing to use AI to boost productivity or kick off their careers. Available in Cool Silver color and with a sleek, modern design that includes a customizable single-zone RGB keyboard (featuring a dedicated Copilot key), this laptop looks great in any setting. And thanks to a full I/O lineup, users will have ultimate flexibility anywhere ― all at an affordable price of only PHP 69,995, complete with the ASUS 4A Quality and Service warranty.
Pru Life UK is tapping into the dynamic growth of the global tech industry with its exciting new offer, the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund. This innovative, Peso-denominated Fund gives customers access to the ATRAM Global Technology Feeder Fund of ATRAM Trust Corporation (“ATRAM”) whose target fund is Fidelity International’s Fidelity Funds – Global Technology Fund (the “Target Fund”).
The Target Fund is one of the largest in the world with USD23.9 billion in assets as of July 2024. ATRAM is the leading digitally-powered asset and wealth management firm in the Philippines with over PHP360 Billion in assets under management as of June 2024.
With the tech sector outperforming other industries, the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund offers a gateway to investing in stocks of some of the world’s most influential tech-driven companies, including Alphabet Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Microsoft Corp, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. These companies are not just at the forefront of technology but are also shaping the future of various industries worldwide.
The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is ideal for new and existing Pru Life UK customers with an aggressive investment risk appetite. It allows customers to invest in dollar-denominated equity assets while using Philippine Peso, providing the potential for additional returns through favorable foreign exchange rate movements (while there may be potential returns, note that there may be potential losses, too, depending on the performance of Philippine Peso against US dollar).
The current short-term volatility in the global tech market presents a prime buying opportunity (see related story here). By investing in the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund now, customers can maximise long-term potential capital gains by acquiring high-quality tech stocks while prices are relatively low.
“The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is proof of our purpose to help Filipinos achieve their financial goals. Through our investment-linked insurance products, we want our customers to have access to the growth of tech-driven companies worldwide with a fund that largely invests through ATRAM in the Fidelity Funds – Global Technology Fund of Fidelity International,” Pru Life UK vice president and chief product officer Garen Dee shares.
The ATRAM Global Technology Feeder Fund, which the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund invests in, was recently awarded the 2024 Best Managed Fund of the Year under the Peso-Denominated Global Equity Feeder Funds category by the CFA Society of the Philippines.
Since its inception, the Feeder Fund has shown a strong annual growth return of 21% as of July 2024, making the PRULink Global Navigator Fund a compelling choice for investors seeking exposure to the global tech sector.
“ATRAM is proud to partner with Pru Life UK on the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund, offering Filipino investors a way to benefit from the global tech sector’s growth. We are committed to delivering a fund that not only meets the highest standards of excellence but also offers clients exceptional growth opportunities and strategic advantages in an ever-evolving market,” shares Andrew Caw, ATRAM’s chief marketing officer.
The PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund is a strategic opportunity to participate in the future of global technology. With expert fund management, exposure to leading tech giants, and the potential for added earnings through currency movements, this fund is designed to help you secure your financial future.
This new fund comes hot on the heels of Pru Life UK securing the top spot in terms of New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) and Total Premium Income for Variable Life Insurance Products, based on the latest industry performance report for the second quarter of 2024 by the Insurance Commission. See the full story here.
Learn more about the PRULink Global Tech Navigator Fund at https://bit.ly/PRULinkGTNF or contact your Pru Life UK agent today.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.has announced the expansion of One UI 6.1.1, which will bring the latest Galaxy AI features to more Galaxy devices through a new update. With the rollout beginning in September, the update will extend the AI features of Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 to previous models, including the Galaxy S24 series, S23 series, S23 FE, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, and Tab S9 series. With the latest advanced features across communication, productivity and creativity, the updated OS will elevate every mobile experience for users to deliver greater intelligence and convenience.
Intuitive Communication Without Barriers
Communicating with someone in another language is simple and easy with Galaxy AI. Interpreter offers Listening Mode which will now be available on all expanded devices, and one-way translation — whether listening to a presentation. With Chat Assist, users can easily draft emails, social media posts, and more using Composer. Users can simply input a few keywords, and Galaxy AI will generate a full message based on tone and personal style for review. Suggested replies, previously only available on Galaxy Z Flip6, will now be available on Galaxy S24 series devices — offering quick replies from the wrist when connected to Galaxy Watch7 or Galaxy Watch Ultra.
Powerful Productivity From Anywhere
The latest expansion of Galaxy AI features can transform any Galaxy device into a powerful productivity tool. Note Assist makes time-consuming meeting notes a thing of the past, enabling translation and note summaries, while the newly added transcript feature can quickly create notes based on voice recordings. For added convenience, PDF Overlay Translation can effortlessly translate and overlay text in PDF files or even translate text in images and graphs.
Sketch to Image helps enhance photos by generating a selection of image options that perfectly complement the original image based on simple sketches. Also, the advanced search capabilities of Circle to Search with Google quickly generate search results and now offer step-by-step instructions for solving complex math problems, as well as newly added Sound Search feature.
Advanced Creativity Made Easy
Galaxy AI is enabling everyday users to create professional-grade content, whether they’re an amateur photographer or aspiring content creator. Instantly create portraits in a variety of styles such as 3D cartoon or watercolor with Portrait Studio. Plus, Instant Slow-mo users can seamlessly slow a video down while maintaining smooth image quality before quickly saving and sharing in just a few simple steps.
Availability
The software update for the Samsung Galaxy S24 series will begin rolling out in Korea on September 5, followed by North America and Europe on September 9. Software updates for additional Galaxy devices and countries will be available in the coming weeks.
Visually appealing — this best describes the vibrant and energetic gleaming orange look of the vivo Y28. Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Y27, this smartphone comes with several upgrades that are worth checking out.
Design: 4/5
Vivo has significantly upgraded its mid-range smartphone with vivo Y28’s premium look, featuring a metallic high-gloss frame that adds a touch of sophistication to its vibrant color. Weighing only 199g and measuring 8.09mm thick, it’s remarkably slim and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The back of the smartphone is a composite plastic material decorated with glitter particles that shimmer under light, creating a dynamic flow pattern that I had fun playing with. Vivo also retains its signature small logo at the bottom left corner.
Looking closely at the camera module, I noticed a subtle yet elegant 3D diamond pattern on the sides, making the camera look even better. Also, the dynamic light feature (the small circle beside the second camera lens) is reminiscent of a small “aura light” design, enhancing its visual appeal.
The front camera design of the vivo Y28 has been upgraded to a hole-punch style, providing more screen space for a better viewing and editing experience. The vivo Y28 boasts an eye-catching overall design, and its gleaming orange finish adds a touch of satisfying vibrancy. But if this color is not your style, the vivo Y28 also comes in agate green, giving off a forest vibe.
The power and volume buttons are on the right, while the dual micro SIM card slot with microSD is on the left. The bottom edge houses the earphone jack, USB Type-C port, and speakers. Additional speakers are located at the top.
Hardware: 4/5
Powered by a MediaTek Helio G85 processor with an 8-core CPU running at 2.0GHz, the vivo Y28 efficiently handles daily activities and light gaming. On Geekbench 6, it achieved 396 in single-core, 1229 in multi-core, and 577 for GPU OpenCL score performance.
Complementing these performance scores, the vivo Y28 features 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, expandable with an additional 8GB RAM and up to 1TB ROM, making it fully equipped to enhance its performance capabilities. Its operating system is Funtouch OS 14 overlaid on Android 14, offering a user-friendly and customizable interface that ensures a seamless and personalized experience.
The vivo Y28 features a 6.68-inch screen display with a 1608×720 resolution, perfect for enjoying videos and gaming. Combined with a 90Hz refresh rate and a high-brightness eye protection display, reaching up to 1000nits of brightness, it ensures a clear, vivid visual and smooth performance for all work and play needs. Moreover, it has an IP64 rating for protection against dust and water splashes, thus minimizing the need for frequent cleaning while ensuring durability.
Its camera system includes a 50MP main camera and a 2MP bokeh camera, while the front camera has 8MP. As for battery life, the vivo Y28 has a 6000mAh battery that lasts for days and a 44W charger that quickly recharges, keeping up with any tasks and games.
User Experience: 4/5
Vivo’s ability to create eye-catching devices is undeniable. The vivo Y28’s design is so sophisticated that I initially mistook it for a flagship smartphone. Its fresh appearance caught my eye immediately because of its major glow-up over its predecessor. A minor complaint is that its back cover material could be prone to fingerprint smudges during prolonged use. Happily, it is bundled with a clear jelly case that can help protect against smudging and maintain a pristine appearance.
Beyond its impressive color and design, the vivo Y28 also delivers solid performance. As a mid-range smartphone, the main camera takes decent photos, but image quality may be inconsistent. With good lighting, image colors are vibrant and details are sharp. However, in low light or when zooming in, image quality can deteriorate (same with the front camera). As for shooting videos, the main and front cameras can capture videos in 1080p and 720p at 30 frames per second. However, the videos can be slightly grainy and shaky due to the low frame rate and lack of stabilization.
The miniature dynamic light feature of the vivo Y28 isn’t just for a show; it serves a practical purpose that is convenient for busy individuals. For example, it can alert you to notifications, count down during selfies, and even dance to your music. You can customize its blinking behavior with three settings: dynamic for rapid blinking, rhythm for normal blinking, and soft for slow blinking. So, even when placed face it down, the smartphone can still alert you through this additional feature. The 90Hz responsive display of the vivo Y28 is able to deliver smooth scrolling and animations.
In the realm of gaming and entertainment, the vivo Y28 may not be a powerhouse, but it delivers solid performance for casual gamers and entertainment enthusiasts. I was able to play Mobile Legends: Bang Bang with a high frame rate and medium graphics for clear visuals and responsive controls, allowing me to easily navigate and engage with the action. For Call of Duty, I set the graphics to low and the frame rate to medium. Although this means the visuals aren’t as crisp, the game remains playable and runs without major issues.
In addition, the vivo Y28’s Ultra Game Mode provided helpful customization options to optimize the gaming experience. While the vivo Y28 performs well with less demanding games, it may heat up and lag when running more graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves.
Overall, the vivo Y28 is an excellent entertainment companion. Its vibrant 1080p display, dual stereo speakers, and powerful volume booster that reaches up to 300% make it ideal for movies, games, and music. Even at maximum volume, the audio quality remains impressive, with clear vocals and distinct melodies. Although the bass may be subtle when playing music, it’s still noticeable and adding depth to the sound.
With all of these upgraded features, the vivo Y28 still manages to deliver impressive battery life. Even with regular use, including streaming, browsing, and gaming, the battery often lasts well into the next day with 30-40% still remaining by the time you’re ready to recharge. However, as with any smartphone, your actual battery life may vary depending on how intensively you use power-hungry features like in gaming. But overall, the Y28 strikes an excellent balance between performance and battery longevity, making it a dependable companion for day-to-day tasks.
Value: 4/5
Priced at PHP7,999 for the 8GB+128GB model and PHP9,999 for the 8GB+256GB version, the vivo Y28 offers options to suit different needs. The higher price of the 256GB version may raise some eyebrows, but the extra storage could be worth the investment for those who need it. Meanwhile, the 128GB version offers excellent value, providing a solid balance of features and performance.
Specifications:
Color: Agate Green, Gleaming Orange
Operating System: Funtouch OS 14
Ingress Protection Rating: IP64
Android Version: 14
Platform:
Processor: Helio G85
CPU Core Count: 8
Process Node: 12nm
CPU Clock Speed: 2 × 2.0 GHz + 6 × 1.8 GHz
Storage:
RAM & ROM: 8 GB + 128 GB, 8 GB + 256 GB
RAM Type: LPDDR4X
ROM Type: eMMC 5.1
Expandable RAM Capacity: 8 GB
Expandable ROM Capacity: 1 TB
Battery:
Battery: 6000 mAh (TYP)
Charging Power: 44W
Battery Type: Li-ion battery
Design:
Dimensions: 165.70 × 76.00 × 7.99 mm (Agate Green), 165.70 × 76.00 × 8.09 mm (Gleaming Orange)
vivo is excited to announce that the much-anticipated vivo V40 will bring something big to the table, a camera technology co-engineered with ZEISS, the global leader in optics.
ZEISS, known worldwide for its high-precision lenses used in professional cameras and scientific instruments, has brought its decades of expertise to the vivo V40.
The partnership allows vivo to integrate professional-grade optics into the V40’s camera system, raising the bar for mobile photography in the Philippines.
The continued collaboration from the vivo V30 Pro to the V40 has pushed the boundaries of what smartphone cameras can achieve. The vivo V40 will be packed with ZEISS-powered features that make it easy for users to capture professional-quality photos and videos.
Click HERE to watch vivo’s official video announcement about its partnership with ZEISS for the V40.
One standout feature is the new ZEISS Multifocal Portrait, which brings professional portrait focal lengths to mobile photography. The vivo V40 also offers a variety of ZEISS Style Portraits with various bokeh options, ensuring that every shot has that creative, artistic touch.
In addition to photography, the vivo V40 excels in videography, featuring ZEISS Cinematic Video Bokeh for a film-like feel in videos. The AI-driven depth calculation ensures that the subject stays in focus while creating a natural blur in the background, giving videos a polished, cinematic look.
If you want to know more about vivo V40’s ZEISS-powered features, stay tuned for the grand launch on September 18, 2024. Get ready to experience the next level of mobile photography and videography with vivo and ZEISS.
Digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top five most searched destinations by Pinoys for a brief yet fulfilling weekend getaway or staycation. For those who are craving a quick escape but unable to commit to a longer vacation abroad, weekend breaks in the archipelago offer the perfect solution.
With the “ber-month” holidays on the horizon, Pinoys are setting their sights on the short weekend, domestic getaways. These short trips provide a refreshing mix of relaxation and adventure without the pre-planning required for travel to faraway destinations.
Agoda looked at searches made by Pinoy travelers for overnight stays between late August to September. Manila, the second most populous city of the Philippines, emerged as the top choice, followed by Cebu, Tagaytay, Boracay Island, and Batangas respectively.
Mike Hwang, country director, Philippines at Agoda shared, “Weekend getaways or staycations are an excellent way to recharge without the need for extensive planning. The Philippines offers such a diverse landscape where travelers can enjoy the cityscape, the beach or even the mountains without needing to travel too far. Each location also offers unique experiences that cater to different interests.”
Here are Pinoy’s top destination choices for a weekend break:
Manila: the bustling capital of the Philippines, offers a mix of iconic landmarks and modern attractions. Visitors can do anything from exploring Intramuros, the historic walled city, to enjoying a shopping spree at numerous malls. The city’s vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene make it an ideal spot for a quick urban escape.
Cebu: Known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is famous for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. Travelers can visit the iconic Magellan’s Cross, dive in the crystal-clear waters of Moalboal, or take a scenic drive to the highlands of Busay for a panoramic view of the city.
Tagaytay: Just a short drive from Manila, Tagaytay is a popular destination for its cool climate and stunning views of Taal Volcano. Here, visitors can enjoy a leisurely day at Picnic Grove, savor local delicacies at Mahogany Market, or simply relax in one of the many cozy cafes overlooking lake Taal.
Boracay Island: Remains a top choice for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Activities such as kite surfing, island hopping, and sunset sailing are just a few of the many attractions travelers can enjoy here.
Batangas: This is a favorite for its accessibility and diverse attractions. From the pristine beaches of Laiya to the diving spots in Anilao, Batangas caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The province is also home to historical sites like the Taal Heritage Town, making it a well-rounded destination.
Agoda’s extensive offerings include over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. This makes planning a weekend getaway easier and more convenient. For more information on these destinations and to book a trip, visit Agoda’s website.
Bridging the gap between education and employment, leading online job portal Jobstreet by SEEK has recently partnered with WorldSkills Philippines by Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in line with the 2024 Philippine National Skills Competition held at the World Trade Center in Pasay. This collaboration aims to provide Senior High School (SHS) and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) learners with valuable insights into job-seeking skills.
The partnership led by Jobstreet by SEEK and TESDA seeks to expand digital empowerment to SHS and TVET learners, equipping them with career counseling and exploration activities to help them discover their passions and strengths by providing guidance to enhance employability skills such as resume writing and interview strategies, especially in an increasingly digital job landscape.
“I believe that this partnership with WorldSkills Philippines by TESDA serves as a crucial stepping stone for SHS and TVET learners who will eventually become the country’s future workforce,” shared Dannah Majarocon, managing director of Jobstreet by SEEK in the Philippines.
“By equipping SHS and TVET learners with the necessary job-seeking and upskilling skills to navigate the country’s increasingly digital job market, we believe that job security in the Philippines can be improved for the years to come. This starts with partnerships with organizations like TESDA, which serve as a primary platform for equipping the necessary skills and knowledge for our future workforce, the youth.”
This collaboration also highlights Jobstreet by SEEK’s Career Hub, which is a platform within the Jobstreet app that offers guide content for job-seekers, touching on tips regarding upskilling, reskilling, and improving employability in the job search market. This underscores Jobstreet by SEEK’s unique position not just as a job search platform, but also as a career partner for job-seekers.
The partnership recently came to fruition with a career talk during the 2024 Philippine National Skills competition for SHS and TVET students. The talk featured a variety of topics aimed at empowering SHS and TVET learners with necessary job-seeking skills in the face of a digitalizing job market. This included a resume-building and job interview panel with speaker Anni Basinga, country HR manager of Jobstreet by SEEK in the Philippines; a panel on remote work with a mock interview for participants facilitated by Mia Juan, a popular social media content “edu-creator”, and a talk on overseas work by Product Specialist of WorkAbroad and host, Marc Paredes.
“With Jobstreet by SEEK’s platform, we are using the power of AI for better talent matches. We use AI to check your resumes which will then be matched to job ads, making sure that the jobs you can apply for are jobs that thoroughly match your skill sets. This is what we mean when we say AI enhancement, that we use the power of technology to help you find the jobs that are right for you. This is the type of digital empowerment that future jobseekers need,” explained Basinga.
Jobstreet by SEEK continues to uphold its commitment to equipping future job-seekers and employees like SHS and TVET students with the necessary skills to improve their employability as job searching continues to be more competitive in the country. Jobstreet by SEEK further supports this with its state-of-the-art digital platforms such as Career Hub, and SEEK’s AI-driven job matching platform that opens opportunities for potential employees to match their skill set to a career they want to pursue in the future.
Ford Motor Company has announced the appointment of Pedro Simoes as managing director, Ford Group Philippines, effective December 1, 2024. Pedro is currently marketing, commercial vehicle and fleet director, Ford Middle East. He will succeed Michael “Mike” Breen who will be repatriating back to the US.
Pedro will relocate to Manila and will report directly to Yukontorn ‘Vickie’ Wisadkosin, president, Ford ASEAN and Asia Pacific Distributor Markets.
In his new role, Pedro will be responsible for continuing to drive Ford’s growth in the Philippines, including sustaining the strong momentum for Ford brand, further enhancing the ownership and aftersales experience, and fostering strong relationships with dealer partners to better serve our Ford customers.
“With proven track record of success in driving brand growth, market expansion, and collaborative leadership style, I am confident that Pedro will be able to lead the team and work together with our dealer partners to further strengthen our presence in the Philippines,” said Wisadkosin.
“We want to also express our sincere appreciation for Mike’s exceptional contributions to the growth of the Ford brand in the Philippines, having led the team to deliver exceptional business results. His personal commitment and engaging leadership have strengthened dealer relations significantly. We wish him the very best of luck in his new role in the US,” added Wisadkosin.
Pedro joined the Ford Middle East team in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2016 and brings extensive experience in leading and growing businesses. He has most recently served as marketing, commercial vehicle and fleet director for the Middle East where he established new department, team and processes for the region in 2021. Prior to that, Pedro was retail marketing & revenue management director for the region, working with markets in Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific to deliver incremental net profit forecast and 40% volume increase in the first year.
Throughout his career, he has held key leadership roles in marketing, brand, products, and sales functions for various automotive brands, resulting in his deep understanding of the automotive industry.
Pedro earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BESc) and Master of Science (MS) in Material Science Engineering from Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal in 2007, and Executive Advance Marketing Program from Universidade Catolica Portuguesa in 2012.
Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has announced the extension of its ‘Drive in Style’ promo with updated deals for the month of September. The Honda CR-V V Turbo CVT is more attainable than ever with a PHP150,000 markdown, bringing its price down to only PHP1,950,000. The City S 1.5 CVT also gets a special promo, with a special all-in down payment of PHP 18,000. Also discounted this month are the Civic RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING, HR-V V Turbo CVT Honda SENSING, BR-V 1.5 S CVT.
LATEST CASH PROMOS AND FINANCING OFFERS
Honda CR-V V Turbo CVT
The practical and versatile Honda CR-V was recently given the ‘Best Safety Performance in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)’ award by the 2024 ASEAN New Car Assessment Program.
The award-winning CR-V is one of the safest models in its class, keeping its occupants safe from any potential accidents on the road. Guided by Honda’s global safety target of zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles by 2050, Honda proudly promotes its Honda SENSING technology through the CR-V.
Honda SENSING is a driver-assist system that aims to make driving safer and more convenient too. Features of Honda SENSING available on the CR-V V Turbo CVT are Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning (RDM with LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Auto High Beam (AHB), and Lead Car Departure Warning (LCDN).
What makes the CR-V V Turbo CVT even more appealing is that it also has a Front Millimeter Radar System, which is only available on the CR-V. The radar, mounted behind the Honda emblem, increases the unit’s field of view to 120 degrees as opposed to the previous generation’s 50.
Owning a CR-V has also been made more convenient with the Honda CONNECT app. Owners can feel more at ease with the safety, security, and convenience provided by Honda CONNECT. The app can do things such as sending alerts if the car has been involved in an accident, locating it in a crowded parking lot, sending service reminders, and much more. It even comes with the latest updates on offers and news from HCPI.
To add to the CR-V’s practicality, it is the only 7-seater in the compact crossover segment. There is no slowing this car down though, because even with a full load, the power of the 1.5L VTEC Turbo Engine takes its driver where it needs to go, providing 190PS and 240Nm of torque.
Turn heads with the CR-V V Turbo’s four (4) colors now:
Canyon River Blue Metallic
Meteoroid Gray Metallic
Lunar Silver Metallic
Platinum White Pearl
This base model CR-V variant retails at PHP 2,100,000, but those interested are now PHP 150,000 closer to getting their own. With a low-monthly amortization rate of PHP 38,820, the 15% all-in downpayment goes as low as PHP 10,000.
Jam-packed with safety and convenience features, as well as its powerful engine, the CR-V checks all the boxes at any price point. Get the V variant now for only PHP 1,950,000 this September.
MORE DISCOUNTED MODELS
CIVIC RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING
Own the icon now; the iconic top-of-the-line Civic will have an PHP80,000 markdown with a PHP32,812 low monthly amortization rate.
HR-V V Turbo CVT Honda SENSING
Stun with the HR-Vs combination of a premium, sporty look and essential utility features. Enjoy an PHP80,000 markdown for the month of September.
BR-V 1.5 S CVT
The powerful 7-seater BR-V gets the job done at its S variant SRP of PHP1,150,000 but is available for as low as PHP1,110,000 for a limited time only.
CITY 1.5 S CVT
The City’s spacious cargo and Honda SENSING features will check all your boxes for your next daily car. Pay as low as PHP18,000 for a special all-in downpayment for this month.*
*Based on 10% downpayment with 36 to 60 months payment terms, only applicable to BPI, RCBC, Bank of Commerce. Subject to bank approval.
*With 36 to 60 months payment terms, only applicable to BPI, RCBC, Bank of Commerce. Subject to bank approval.
**Exclusive offer from BPI Auto Loan at 20% down payment. Subject to bank approval.
FREE INSURANCE PACKAGE
A free insurance package from RCBC, China Bank Savings, Maybank, and BDO is available this month. The customer must have a minimum amount of PHP 500,000 financed to claim this deal.
HONDA GENUINE ACCESSORIES
Tailor your Honda vehicle just the way you like it. Honda Genuine Accessories go up to PHP 14,511.38 off this September.
HONDA UPGRADE PROGRAM
Deciding if it’s time to replace your current Honda with a newer one? The Honda Upgrade Program (HUP) is here to make the choice easier. This month, the upgrade to a Civic RS Turbo Honda SENSING is made lighter with a combined PHP 110,000 discount*. All HUP offers can be combined with other existing offers for the month.
*On top of all other available offers available for the month.
Around 2,000 runners came together at the SM Mall of Asia grounds early in the morning last August 31 to test themselves and their fitness at the 2024 Xiaomi Pop Run.
A sea of orange dances with Zin Jason Cunan at the Xiaomi Pop Run village to warm up before the race
Both hardcore and casual runners got to put themselves through their paces at the run, with a 10km Professional Race category that saw participants compete for the top spot and Xiaomi prizes, which include a Xiaomi 13T, Xiaomi Watch S2, and Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo earbuds. Mark Anthony Octimar won the 10km with a time of 36:05, followed by Jose Fabito, Jr. (37:10) and Ronald Salgado (38:26).
First place finisher Mark Anthony Octimar celebrates his victory at the 10k race, crossing the line in just 36.05 minutes
Meanwhile, those who wanted to challenge their personal records in a shorter distance ran in the 5km Fun Run category. Coach and trainer Jason Cunanan was present to warm up and cool down the runners at the event.
The 2024 Xiaomi Pop Run also saw the debut of the new Xiaomi Smart Band 9. The new compact fitness band can track vitals and workouts in a 15.8g package, lasting up to 21 days on a full charge.
“Xiaomi devices let Filipinos live their best lives, no matter the lifestyle – and especially if you have an active and healthy lifestyle like our participants at the 2024 Xiaomi Pop Run,” said Tomi Adrias, Xiaomi Philippines Head of Marketing. “It’s our pleasure to give people avenues like these to enjoy their hobbies and interests, as well as put their favorite Xiaomi devices to the test.”
5k and 10k winners celebrate their victories on the Xiaomi Pop Run village podium.
The 2024 Xiaomi Pop Run was made possible by partners Red Bull, Salonpas, Gourmet Farms, Dermplus, Fast Aid Kit, SunCoast Brands, Viu, Fitbar, and Yogorino.
The Xiaomi Smart Band 9 and other devices are now available at authorized Xiaomi stores, as well as the brand’s official Lazada and Shopee stores. To learn more about them, visit http://mi.com/ph.
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is encouraging Filipinos to maximize the bank’s Mobile Check Deposit feature on the BPI app, which allows clients to deposit checks in five minutes.
“As part of BPI’s customer obsession culture, we have developed the Mobile Check Deposit feature on the BPI app, allowing customers to conveniently transact anytime, anywhere. While the channel to transact is new, the same rules on clearing remain the same. Thus, customers need not worry about any delays in crediting the deposits to their accounts,” said Fitzgerald Chee, Head of Consumer Platforms.
The Mobile Check Deposit feature is currently accessible to BPI Preferred, BPI Gold, and BPI Private Wealth clients without any fees. Local checks below PHP500,000 can be deposited via the app and clients can monitor deposit status as an added feature.
The following details must be written on the back of the check before depositing it through the BPI app:
“Bank of the Philippine Islands” or “BPI”
Date of the check deposit (MM/DD/YYYY)
BPI account number
Client’s signature
A physical copy of the check must also be kept for 12 months in case of dispute.
Clients may also deposit at any time. Checks deposited after 3PM (PHT) or on weekends and holidays will be processed the next banking day.
With this feature of the BPI app, BPI continues to digitalize transactions as part of its Phygital strategy. “As everyday transactions are migrated onto its digital platforms, branches can now take on a more advisory role — helping our clients do more and maximize opportunities to grow their funds,” Chee added.
Globe’s biggest customer loyalty event of the year, G Day, is back! This annual flagship campaign will run throughout the entire month and beyond, with September 17 highlighted as a special date in honor of Globe’s iconic 0917 prefix.
G Day 2024 is a big opportunity for Globe to connect deeply with its customers, understand their needs, and enrich their lives through meaningful experiences and exclusive rewards.
“G Day is our way of giving back to our loyal customers who have been with us through the years,” said Ernest Cu, Globe president and CEO. “This year, we’re taking it a step further by uplifting communities and supporting Filipino-owned businesses. G Day is our way of saying thank you, and we can’t wait to share these moments with you.”
“We’ve made G Day easily accessible for all our customers,’ said Darius Delgado, Globe’s chief commercial officer. “Through the GlobeOne app, customers can unlock delightful experiences, redeem rewards, and even support impactful initiatives.”
Here’s what Globe users can look forward to on G Day:
G-Gantic Goals: Starting September 1, Globe users can join the nationwide cause by contributing just 1 Rewards point. Once we reach the target of 100,000 customers redeeming points, 917 families or 3,668 individuals supported by the Hapag Movement will be given grocery packs and treated to cinema block screenings across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
G Raffle Rush: Also kicking off on September 1, customers can redeem raffle entries with their Rewards points for a chance to win big prizes, including EVs such as Gogoro Jego Smartscooters and a BYD Dolphin, travel packages, GCash credits, local grocery shopping sprees powered by ShareTreats, and even a one-bedroom condominium unit from Avida Land.
G Day Delighters: On September 17, Globe’s tenured and most loyal customers will receive free raffle entries for the G Raffle Rush. Those who have multiple mobile and/or broadband accounts will get additional raffle entries.
G Fair: Happening on September 20 and 21, 2024, at the BGC Amphitheater, G Fair aims to promote Filipino-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), highlight products from across the country, and connect them to a broader market.
Visitors can expect to discover the latest local finds from Filipino entrepreneurs, enjoy exciting activities and treats from Globe Enterprise partners, and experience innovative solutions at the Globe Business Hub.
Confirmed partners include fashion brands Yana’s Textile, Gratia Manila and Sewn Sandals; food vendors H Proper, Araro Gelato, and W Bakehouse; and lifestyle businesses Arete and Russ & Rose.
G Fest: This event will provide a curated experience of music and creativity, inspiring the Filipino Youth in their talents and passions. The youth will also get the opportunity to interact with their idols and even share the G Fest Courage Stage with them.
G Fest will take place on the following dates in these locations:
September 22, 2024 – SMX, MOA Complex, Pasay City
October 5, 2024 – Iloilo Convention Center
November 16, 2024 – SMX Davao
To join the G Day celebrations, customers are encouraged to download the GlobeOne app, available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery.
