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    Sun Life Philippines named finalist in HR Excellence Awards 2024

    Sun Life Philippines was recently selected as a finalist in the prestigious HR Excellence Awards 2024 for its achievements in two categories: Excellence in Employee Engagement and Excellence in CSR Strategy.

    This recognition underscores Sun Life’s commitment to fostering an engaged workplace for its employees while creating a positive impact on the community.

    Sun Life’s dedication to employee well-being and engagement has led it to implement innovative programs and initiatives that aims to empower its employees to shine together, make life brighter, and shape the future. Fostering a culture of collaboration and growth, the company enables its employees to be their authentic selves at work.

    Meanwhile, the company’s philanthropic arm, the Sun Life Foundation, has consistently demonstrated a strong focus on addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. More than short-term projects, Sun Life Foundation mounts sustainable initiatives focused on education and financial literacy, community health, and environment conservation. This empowers the communities to take the reins themselves for a deeper sense of ownership and fulfillment.

    “We are honored to be named a finalist in the HR Excellence Awards,” said Michelle Garcia, chief human resources officer at Sun Life Philippines. “We strive to create a positive impact both internally and externally, and this will inspire us to continue building a sustainable future for our employees and the communities we serve.”

    The HR Excellence Awards is a highly respected platform that recognizes outstanding human resources practices and achievements. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on August 16, 2024.

    Always incredible AI: ASUS PH officially launches ASUS Vivobook S 15, its first Copilot+ PC

    Experience Next-Gen AI with the first-ever ASUS Copilot+ PC in the country, packed with incredible AI power and portability!

    ASUS Philippines has launched a new era in AI-powered computing with the debut of the ASUS Vivobook S 15 (S5507). Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite, the device is the company’s first Copilot+ PC, with Windows AI features and a collection of exclusive ASUS AI apps.

    ASUS Philippines Business Development Manager Harrison Cheng shares, “As leaders of innovation, we are excited to introduce to our Filipino audience our first Copilot+ PC, the ASUS Vivobook S 15, designed in collaboration with Qualcomm and Microsoft. This AI PC aims to take users’ lives to the next level, making them more secure, efficient, and personalized. AI connects users to endless possibilities, opening a new incredible way to work, study, play, and create, ultimately giving back valuable personal time to its users.”

    The Vivobook S 15 is equipped with the efficient power and built-in AI engine of the Snapdragon X Elite Platform. Users can also enjoy incredible performance and efficiency as a result of the custom-integrated Qualcomm Oryon CPU. With up to 18 hours of battery life, enjoy uninterrupted productivity. It has a stunning 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display, Harman Kardon-certified audio, and a sleek 14.7 mm-thin, 1.42 kg-light body, so it’s built for effortless mobility.

    The Vivobook S 15 is backed up with the ASUS 4A Quality & Service – a two-year international warranty, a free Office Home & Student 2021 lifetime license, and a one-year Microsoft 365 Basic subscription.

    Vivobook S 15

    All-new next-gen AI experience

    Packed with the latest Windows AI tools and powered by the Snapdragon X Elite with built-in Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, the Vivobook S 15 boasts up to a 45 TOPS Neural engine for swift on-device AI processing. An ultrafast 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and 16 GB of 8448 MHz LPDDR5X RAM are included for ample storage and memory.

    Next-gen AI-powered enhancements include Windows Studio Effects and an ASUS AiSense IR camera. The camera’s presence-detection capabilities enable Adaptive Dimming, which dims the screen when the user looks away, and Adaptive Lock, which locks the laptop when the user moves away and unlocks it upon return. The Vivobook S 15 is the first device to feature the exclusive AI app StoryCube, which uses AI to sort, edit, manage, and export digital assets.

    Additional features include Windows Studio Effects for enhanced lighting and noise removal during video calls, Live Captions for real-time subtitles, and Cocreator to transform sketches into finished artwork(1). These technologies enhance security, privacy, and creativity.

    By leveraging these advanced AI capabilities, the Vivobook S 15 not only enhances productivity and efficiency but also frees up valuable personal time. The AI-driven features streamline tasks and automate mundane activities, allowing users to focus on what truly matters to them, ensuring personal time is reclaimed and maximized.

    Vivobook S 15

    Incredible AI on-the-go

    Built for effortless portability, the Vivobook S 15 features a 14.7 mm ultra-slim and 1.42 kg all-metal design, blending minimalist aesthetics with strength and stability. The CNC-engraved logo adds a touch of class, while the 70 Wh battery provides up to 18 hours of productivity or entertainment, support for fast charging, and ASUS USB-C Easy Charge.

    The premium styling includes a single-zone RGB backlit keyboard for personalized styles and a dedicated Copilot key for instant access to Windows AI tools. The large, smart touchpad offers effortless navigation and intuitive control for various tasks, enhancing the user experience.

    Seamless connectivity

    Equipped with a comprehensive set of I/O ports, the Vivobook S 15 ensures seamless on-the-go connectivity. It includes two USB4 Type-C ports supporting fast charging, 4K displays, and up to 40 Gbps data transfers, plus two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a microSD card reader, and an audio combo jack.

    With WiFi 7 enabled by the Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 system, the Vivobook S 15 delivers speeds up to 5.8 Gbps, outpacing WiFi 6 by 4.8 times. This ensures seamless streaming, effortless multitasking, and lightning-fast downloads.

    Vivobook S 15

    Stunning audiovisuals

    The Vivobook S 15 offers a premium audiovisual experience with a 15.6-inch 3K 120 Hz ASUS Lumina OLED display, providing vivid, true-to-life color, refined highlights, and extraordinary shadow detail. This display features an 89% screen-to-body ratio, 0.2 ms response time, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification. It also includes TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue-light levels for eye care and the ASUS OLED Care system to reduce burn-in risk. Complementing the display is a Harman Kardon-certified audio system with immersive Dolby Atmos sound.

    Availability

    The all-new ASUS Vivobook S 15 retails for PHP 84,995. Buy one today until August 15, 2024, to score fantastic bundles through the ASUS Cool for School Promo. Buyers can also avail of Home Credit’s 0% interest financing for up to 12 months. Visit the nearest store and experience next-level AI computing by ASUS.

    ModelSpecificationsSRP
    Vivobook S 15
    S5507QA-MA032WSM
    Snapdragon X Elite X1E 78 100 Processor 3.4GHz / 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED 16:9 aspect ratio / 16GB LPDDR5X on board / 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD / Qualcomm Adreno GPU / Qualcomm Hexagon NPU 45 TOPS / Windows 11 Home / Microsoft Office Home & Student 2021 + Microsoft 365 Basic One-Year Subscription / Cool SilverPHP 84,995.00

    Get the latest news on the new Vivobook and Zenbook series and other remarkable ASUS devices via the official ASUS Philippines Facebook page.

    (1) Cocreator feature is only available with Copilot Pro subscription.

    Hyundai Stargazer promo celebrates 75th anniversary of PH-South Korean ties

    Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) continues to celebrate the 75th anniversary of ties between the Philippines and South Korea with a special promo for the Hyundai Stargazer.

    The brand has previously commemorated this milestone through showcases of Korean-Filipino fusions of food, fashion, and music. Starting with a fashion showcase of works by Leeroy New and various local designers, a camping food trip video by Jessica Lee and chef JP Anglo featuring the IONIQ 5, and a concert headlined by Hyundai brand ambassador Sarah Geronimo and other local artists.

    HMPH now offers several payment options and discounts for the Hyundai Stargazer when customers make a purchase through any of the brand’s bank partners, namely BDO, BPI, and EastWest. On top of that, a new Ph-Kor anniversary treat of free 2-Year Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) is offered to all customers who purchase any variant of the Hyundai Stargazer from any authorized Hyundai dealership nationwide. All Hyundai Stargazer units purchased until December 31, 2024, will get free PMS for 2 years or 30,000km, whichever comes first. Customers will be given a Free 2-Year PMS Certificate upon purchasing a Stargazer, which can be presented at any authorized Hyundai dealership.

    “Hyundai Motor Philippines is happy to be commemorating this historical milestone alongside our customers. After our momentous celebrations at the Hyundai Mobility Experience in Megamall and TriNoma, we are proud to now be offering this special promo for the Hyundai Stargazer just for you. This not only highlights the prevailing ties between South Korea and the Philippines, but also reflects our commitment to be your partner in every journey and milestone. We look forward to sharing many more years of growth and innovation with all our customers.”, says HMPH managing director Cecil Capacete.

    For the full terms and conditions, visit https://www.hyundai.com/ph/en/build-a-car/promotion/run-the-next-mile-with-hyundai. To get other news and updates, follow @HyundaiMotorPhilippines on Facebook and Instagram.

    *The free PMS Package is non-convertible to cash, nor can be used in conjunction with any other PMS Promotions which involve discounts for PMS parts, labor, and materials.

    MOVE IT promises commuters ‘Aabot Ka Sa Ganap’

    In the hustle and bustle of metro cities, the ceaseless ebb and flow of heavy traffic is the norm. Amid this challenge, a single question persistently stands: “Will I punctually make my appointment?”

    The central character in MOVE IT’s latest whimsical video experiences this urban predicament. The character’s tension — arriving at an unusual scene where his family is being interviewed by a winged TV reporter, underscores the impact of transportation challenges on commuters’ ability to attend critical events. The lack of context only amplifies the surreal nature of the situation.

    To end the suspense from watching the original video, MOVE IT invites the viewers to book a MOVE IT ride and uncover the true unfolding of events. In the alternate rendition of the video, the storyline diverges, underscoring MOVE IT’s commitment to helping every passenger reach their crucial engagements.

    The online video showcases MOVE IT’s pledge to every passenger: “Aabot Ka Sa Ganap.” This promise primarily stands on the platform’s efficient booking time. According to records, compared to the previous year, passengers can now secure a MOVE IT booking in as little as two minutes.

    A Reliable Transportation Option

    MOVE IT’s confidence in promising “Aabot Ka Sa Ganap” stems from its many efforts to improve the efficiency and productivity of its fleet of rider-partners — ensuring its supply of professional moto-taxi service providers meets the demand of Filipino commuters. 

    • Improved Supply: The MOVE IT team has expanded its capacity to assess and upskill a larger number of rider partners. After undergoing professional training and assessment, these partners are seamlessly integrated into the ride-hailing platform. This year, rider-onboarding caravans were launched in diverse areas across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro, optimizing the allocation of slots for its services in these regions.
    • Auto-Accept Booking: The Auto-Accept Booking feature is an opt-in tool designed for rider-partners. It intelligently assigns passengers who are located within a specific radius of the rider-partner’s current passenger’s drop-off point. This feature facilitates back-to-back bookings for rider-partners, thereby enhancing their productivity and enabling them to serve a larger number of passengers.
    • Set Destination: Rider-partners’ productivity is enhanced by effectively assigning them passengers who are headed towards their final destination, even while they are on their way home. This efficient allocation ensures that no trip is wasted and maximizes the use of their time and resources effectively. 
    • Heatmap: This feature strategically directs MOVE IT rider-participants towards areas of high demand, effectively aligning the supply of moto-taxi service providers with locations where a substantial number of passengers are seeking rides.

    MOVE IT general manager Wayne Jacinto shares, “Ang pangunahing layunin namin sa MOVE IT ay tanggalin ang alinlangan ng mga komyuter kung mayroon ba silang masasakyan na maghahatid sa kanila sa kanilang mga destinasyon. Kaya ang simple naming pangako ay aabot ka, kahit ano pa ‘yang inyong ganap.  Ang kumpiyansa na maipangako ito ay bunga ng sipag at dedikasyon ng aming libo-libong rider-partners. Mula noong aming relaunch noong 2023, kami ay patuloy na nagtitiyak sa aming mga pasahero na ang MOVE IT ay maghahatid ng serbisyong maasahan, ligtas, at tapat.”

    Major tournament upgrades mark the return of MPL PH on August 16 

    Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Professional League (MPL) Philippines officially kicks off its 14th iteration with major tournament changes. MPL PH Season 14 starts from 16 August to 6 October 2024, and will be held in the new venue Green Sun, Makati. Matches on Fridays and Sundays start at 5 pm, while matches on Saturdays start at 2:30 pm. 

    With the theme, “Heroes Within,” MPL PH Season 14 aims to embark on a journey of self-discovery to focus back on the competition in the biggest MLBB esports tournament and what it means to win in arguably the most competitive league in the world, and the community and their contributions to the growth of the MLBB esports in the country. 

    Never-before-seen competition 

    MPL PH Season 14 is the most exciting iteration yet, with the entry of Serbian esports organization Aurora. The latest iteration also welcomes the return of Filipino imports such as MP The King and Dlar, who were part of the teams in MPL Cambodia and MPL Indonesia, respectively. 

    The tournament also introduced a new scoring system to shake up the competition further. Each team will play two best-of-three (BO3) matches with the seven other teams. The competition’s ranking will be determined by points, wherein the winning team by 2:0 will get 1 point; the winning team by 2:1 will get 1 point; the losing team by 1:2 receives no point; and the losing team by 0:2 gets no point.

    MPL PH

    Creating the importance of the Regular Season placement, Season 14 gives top teams to get the highest advantages. MPL Philippines Season 14 Playoffs – Lower Bracket Finals will now have changes to the Lower Bracket Finals (Match 7), from best of 5 (BO5) to best of 7 (BO7), finding the best opponent to secure the final slot to the Grand Finals.

    Moreover, the league launched a global open transfer system allowing mid-season transfers, not just between MPL and MDL teams, but within the whole MLBB Esports ecosystem. This means that based on the rules, MPL PH teams are free to recruit, release, or trade players with one another during the transfer window. This also applies to overseas players and free agents. 

    Lastly, Alamat Awards, the seasonal awards program to commemorate the best players and key figures in the MLBB esports scene, has been revamped to improve its award categories. Starting this season, the league will recognize the whole coaching staff, not just the head coach, and their outstanding leadership, strategies, and impact on their team’s performance throughout the season. 

    New award categories have also been added namely the ALL-STAR Team 1 & 2, Fans’ Choice, and Most Improved Player of the Season awards. The Most Valuable Player (MVP) award will be divided into three categories namely the MVP of the Game, MVP of the Match, and MVP of the Week. 

    Bringing MPL PH Community Closer

    MPL PH brings back the MPL Smart Battle Trips, an initiative where MLBB communities from cities, schools, or workplaces will be invited to visit the MPL PH arena and experience the action first-hand. In partnership with MLBB Community Heroes and Student Leaders (CHSL), the league will invite around 40 students and community members from Luzon to watch the tournament offline. Workshops will be held to show participants the available opportunities in the esports and gaming industry. 

    The league will also be hosting the first-ever MPL Infinix FANSiklaban, where the fans can represent their teams in their mini-MPL league, while also fighting for a good cause. More details will be shared soon. 

    This season, Infinix GT20 Pro is the official tournament phone. With its stable frame rate engine, the phone will provide players with perfect gameplay and superior network performance. 

    MPL Philippines Season 14 is supported by Smart Communications, Inc. and Infinix as its official sponsors. Meanwhile, Index Salon and EMC Asia are this season’s Official Suppliers.

    Get to know more about MPL PH by visiting its official platforms below:

    PH Veterans Bank celebrates 32nd anniversary with unveiling of WWII History Wall

    Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), on its 32nd anniversary, unveiled a new WWII History Wall at its main office in Makati City. Mayor Abby Binay led the unveiling, which was recently held at the branch. 

    The WWII History Wall is designed to pay tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Filipino veterans of World War II, who are also the original shareholders of the bank. This feature will be a standard addition to all PVB branches nationwide. 

    The Makati branch, situated in an area historically significant for being a strategic target during the war, will reflect local WWII history through this installation.

    “As we celebrate this important milestone, we honor the enduring spirit and immense contributions of our nation’s heroes to our society,” said Mike Villa-Real, first vice president of Philippine Veterans Bank. 

    He adds, “The WWII History Wall embodies Veteran’s Bank’s continued commitment to remember our veterans and learn from the profound impact of their bravery.”

    As an Authorized Government Depository Bank, PVB continues to serve government-owned and controlled corporations, government agencies, and local government units, aligning its operations with the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people.

    Philippine Veterans Bank is a commercial bank owned by Filipino World War II veterans, established in 1992. The bank serves as a tribute to the veterans who fought for the country’s freedom and now plays a crucial role in providing financial services to both the public and private sectors. 

    As it marks its 32nd year, PVB continues to uphold its mission of contributing to the nation’s economic development while preserving the heroic tales of its founding shareholders.

    For more information, visit www.veteransbank.com.ph or contact PVB at (632) 7902-1600.

    Collaborative partnerships for climate resilience 

    The Philippines tops the list of countries with the highest disaster risk; thus, climate resilience, or building our capacity to respond, bounce back, and adapt to intensifying climate impacts, is a nationwide priority and shared responsibility.

    “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors,” said World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-PH) executive director, Katherine Custodio at the breakout session of the 7th Annual Conference of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024). 

     “There is definite opportunity for platforms or networks to come together and bring to life our national policies and our commitments, but for these to succeed, there needs to be sincere effort and openness to work across different sectors and disciplines,” said Custodio. The session on creating connections and partnerships was hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, senior consultant and sustainability service lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch.

    “Finding the right champions within the company – that’s very important. It helps to engage the leaders from the top,” said Custodio, who has seen the history of the shared goals between the NGO and its many corporate partners over the years.

    climate resilience
    Jonas Dumdum of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila and World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines Executive Director Katherine Custodio on Collaborative Partnerships for Climate Resilience, at the breakout session of the 7th Annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024) Conference on Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities through Science, Technology, and Innovations, is hosted and organized this year by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).

    WWF-Philippines and SM Prime Holdings, Inc., (SM Prime) have partnered on successful programs such as the YOUth are the Future, the annual Earth Hour campaign with SM Supermalls, SM Hotel’s Sustainable Diner, and the Hamilo Coast Sustainable Development project that’s now in its 14th year. 

    “At SM Prime, we dream big for our shared future. True prosperity transcends financial success. Our commitment to developing sustainable integrated properties is matched by our efforts to foster vibrant, inclusive communities wherever we build legacy properties that weather the challenges of time and that last for generations,” said Jessica Bianca Sy, lead executive for design, innovation, and strategy for SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC), during the event.

    As one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, SM Prime believes that taking the right climate action must be grounded in science and endeavor to transition to a net-zero economy. SM Prime’s partnership with WWF-PH ensures that its near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040, align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050.

    “WWF-PH is pleased to work with SM Prime on their decarbonization efforts through our Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.  Companies such as SM Prime are guided in identifying climate-related risks, working on a roadmap, and publicly committing to their science-based targets,” said Custodio.  

    “Change does not happen overnight. This is something we have learned in our work with communities all over the country. True partners are willing to work together for a long time, and actively listen to each other,” said Custodio, when asked by Dumdum about climate partnerships and shared purpose. “When your project positively impacts people’s livelihood and wellbeing – when people’s lives improve in a durable way, that’s when you know you’ve created an impact,” she said. 

    SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future. 

    The 7th APRU-SCL 2024 is hosted and organized this year by the University of the Philippines Los Baňos, at the SMX Aura Convention Center, from August 6-8, 2024. For more information, email: [email protected] or visit the website: dcerp.che.uplb.edu.ph/ichspd.

    SM Malls in Cebu begin sustainable waste management practices with SM GUUN

    GUUN Environmental Company Inc., headquartered in Yokohama City, Japan, and with a facility in Consolacion, Cebu, has started to collect non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle wastes from SM City Cebu, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM City Consolacion, following the joint venture agreement signed by SM Prime and GUUN Japan earlier this year. 

    Guun
    SM City Cebu on August 9. In this photo are (L-R): Jasper Joseph Y. Ouano, building administration officer – Mall Operations, Richard D. Amores, assistant mall manager – mall operations, Hiroshi Hiraki, GUUN PH branch deputy general manager, Prettie Acop-Jalang, GUUN PH branch HR/ general affairs/ PCO/ sales & marketing officer, Jay B. Evangelio, building administration manager – mall operations.

    The initiative involves sorting, curating, and formulation to meet chemical limits. This will serve as an alternative to solid fossil fuels like coal, fueling cement kilns, and industrial boilers in paper manufacturing and power plants.

    GUUN’s innovative production of “fluff fuel” from non-recyclable waste materials aligns with its mission to “maintain harmony between the earth and society by creating a happy environment for the future.”

    Guun

    SM Prime’s partnership with GUUN aims to implement systematic waste management and resource recovery infrastructure. The joint venture seeks to minimize the landfill impact from both SM Prime and non-SM Prime managed properties, enhancing the material recovery facility operations of the local government units.

    SM Prime Holdings chairman of the executive committee Hans Sy, emphasizing a commitment to a positive impact on local communities, shared, “It is exciting for SM Prime to partner with GUUN Japan with a joint mission to bridge the gap between society and the environment in the Philippines through investing in their pioneering solid waste management technology, which will eventually benefit all the communities that SM Prime serves.”

    Guun
    SM Seaside City Cebu, August 9, 2024. In this photo are (L-R) Eric Mar Valenzuela – AMM, Belle Tanjay – OA, Hiroshi Haraki, general manager – Cebu Plant, Prettie Jalang, general affairs/sales & marketing officer, Kacyleen Jabe Abellana – MO, Radock Kyle Navales – BAO

    This initiative aligns with the SM Waste-Free Future campaign, SM Prime’s segregation program, which aims to reduce generated waste overall and increase the rate of recovery and diversion for a waste-free world. 

    Metrobank rings in the holiday season this August with the Happy Holideals promo! 

    The “ber” months are still a month away, but Metrobank is bringing the joy of the holiday season earlier for aspiring car and homeowners with the launch of its Happy Holideals promo, along with holiday financial tips for Filipinos.  
     
    This year, Metrobank is ringing in the holiday season in August by spreading joy by gifting clients with competitive loan rates, waived fees, and more when they apply for a car or home loan until October 31, 2024. 
     
    The launch of the Happy Holideals promo, held at One Ayala on August 9, 2024, was bannered by performances of the King of Philippine Christmas Carols, renowned singer Jose Mari Chan, and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, who serenaded the audience with iconic and timeless musical pieces that filled the air with the holiday spirit. 
     
    The bank’s early holiday treat is in line with its goal to help Filipinos realize their dreams. And what better way to do this than to present great deals and useful financial tips that would help them achieve their big life milestones—such as owning a car or building a new home. 
     
    Metrobank chief marketing officer Digs Dimagiba emphasized the importance of being financially aware and educated early on, so Filipinos can better budget their money. He encouraged people to start a new tradition of planning before the holiday rush and making financial resolutions as early as August when they can still act, instead of starting it post-holiday season in January. 
     
    “Instead of doing it in January, we invite everyone to start a new tradition of making our financial resolutions early in August so that we can truly have a meaningful holiday season ahead. By making our holiday plans and budget before the biggest season for saving and spending, we can put them into action for a smoother holiday season that sets us up for a more stable financial start to the new year,” Dimagiba said during the event as he introduced the financial tips for Filipinos.
     
    He shared an early holiday GIFT from Earnest Learning, Metrobank’s personal finance education program that aims to provide financial resolutions to help Filipinos manage money better. GIFT stands for G – Get ahead with your holiday goals; I – Invest your bonus wisely; F – Follow a budget plan; T – Take advantage of opportunities to save.
     
    To make the holidays more meaningful for Filipinos, Metrobank consumer lending group head Peaches D. Cuenco shared Metrobank’s biggest holiday offer this year for aspiring car and home loan owners: “Filipinos love the holidays that is why in the Philippines it starts as soon as the –ber months come. This time, Metrobank is starting the holiday season even earlier to help our clients manage their funds better for the big move of buying a car or building their dream home that they have been planning for. Through our offers under the Metrobank Happy Holideals promo, we look forward to enabling them as we gift them with competitively low rates, waived fees, and a lot more to achieve their big goals this year.”
     
    “With our Happy Holideals offer, we’re giving Filipinos the gift of G.R.O.W.ing their family’s lifestyle because we are here to help our clients as their families’ needs grow, and their dreams evolve,” she said, explaining that G.R.O.W. means G – Get the best holiday deals to make your home and car loan more budget-friendly; R – Receive additional perks when you avail of the Metrobank credit card which you’re pre-qualified for; O – Opt for a convenient way to complete your loan application; W – Work with the bank you trust, that ensures that your money, and your dreams are in good hands.
     
    Metrobank Happy Holideals is open to all qualified car and home loan clients who submit their complete loan application documents from August 1 to October 31, 2024. Qualified car and home loan applications must also be approved and subsequently booked on or before December 27, 2024 to enjoy the Happy Holideals offers. 

    Metrobank

    Buying a new car for yourself or for your growing family is now made more affordable with Metrobank’s Happy Holideals promo, as it offers the following: 

    • Waived fees to give you more savings for your other holiday spends. Metrobank is waiving up to PHP100,000 on fees, covering Chattel Mortgage Registration Fee, Documentary Stamp Tax (DST), and Notarial Fee.
    • Competitively low rates to give you more wiggle room on your monthly budget. Interest rate of your car loan can be as low as 8.70% p.a. 
    • Bonus gift! Once your loan is approved, you will be pre-qualified for a Metrobank Toyota Mastercard to enjoy more savings! Get a 3% rebate on fuel at Petron stations nationwide and a 10% discount on parts, accessories, and labor at Toyota dealers. Plus, earn rewards points on all your transactions, which you can redeem for eGCs and more. 

    With these deals, now is the best time to finally purchase the car you’ve been eyeing. To apply for a Metrobank car loan, visit https://mcola.metrobank.com.ph/car-loan.  

    Metrobank

    Your dream family home is also within reach through Metrobank’s Happy Holideals promo as it gives you access to these exclusive benefits: 

    • Waived fees so you have more budget for the holidays. Metrobank is waiving up to PHP 100,000 covering Mortgage Registration Fees, Documentary Stamp Tax (DST), and Notarial Fee. 
    • Exceptionally low rates to help you build your new home. Your Metrobank home loan interest rate can be as low as 6.75% p.a for a 5-year fixed term.
    • Bonus gift! With your approved home loan, you are one step closer to enjoying discounts and rebates as you pre-qualify for a Metrobank Credit Card.  

    With your savings, you can now set aside additional funds for home furnishings, or other home improvement projects. Apply for a Metrobank home loan now at https://www.metrobank.com.ph/application-form.  

    What are you waiting for? Celebrate the holiday spirit early, by planning your holiday budget ahead, and taking advantage of Metrobank’s sweet Happy Holideals offers for your big-ticket purchases! For more information, visit the nearest Metrobank branch or go to https://www.metrobank.com.ph/articles/happy-holideals-promo-2024.
     

    Get a productivity boost with the newly launched realme C61

    realme Philippines has announced that the realme C61 is now officially available in the local market. Similar to its predecessors, the new addition to the crowd-favorite C Series guarantees a Quality Champion Experience at an entry-level price point. 

    The realme C61 boasts impressive features that simplify the users’ daily tasks, eventually helping them enhance their lifestyle and boost their productivity and creativity. Here are three features of the realme C61 that make it a bang-for-the-buck smartphone.

    Massive storage for smoother multitasking

    Never worry about keeping multiple apps in the background, as the realme C61 is engineered with realme’s innovative DRE (Dynamic RAM Expansion) technology. This intelligently converts unused storage into virtual RAM, allowing users to enjoy smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and an enhanced performance experience.

    The realme C61 comes in two storage variants where the 6GB+128GB supports either 4GB, 6GB, or 12GB full DRE, while the 8GB+256GB variant can be expanded to 6GB, 8GB, or 16GB full DRE. This breakthrough technology empowers users to unleash the full potential of their smartphones without compromising on storage space.

    Intelligent software optimizations for an intuitive smartphone experience

    Enjoy a seamless visual experience with the 90Hz Eye Comfort Display of realme C61. This technology goes beyond a more responsive transition when using the smartphone. It incorporates Dual Light Sensors, one on the front and one on the back, to allow adaptive screen dimming according to surrounding light conditions. This means that the display on the 6.74” screen remains consistently easy on the eyes, regardless of changes in ambient lighting.

    In terms of brightness level, the realme C61 features a remarkably low minimum of 1 Nit and can reach up to 450 Nits (typ) or 560 Nits of peak brightness.

    Convenient and accessible user interface

    The realme C61 is equipped with Real Essentials, a suite of advanced features that allow touchless interactions and support functions for a customized user experience. The Real Essentials include Air Gestures, AI Noise Reduction, AI Boost, Dynamic Button, Mini Capsule 2.0, Riding Mode, and Rainwater Smart Touch.

    First-selling offers and availability

    The realme C61 in 6GB+128GB storage variant officially retails for PHP6,999 and is available nationwide in all realme physical stores. Fans who will purchase until September 30 can enjoy a FREE 2-year realme Care worth PHP999. Additionally, realme offers a flexible installment option via Home Credit with 0% interest for the first month when the purchase is made until August 31.

    On the other hand, the realme C61 in 8GB+256GB is available on realme TikTok Shop and Shopee Flagship Store at PHP7,999 SRP. Early-bird customers who will purchase until September 30 can also get a FREE 2-year realme Care.

    Fans can avail of the realme C61 (8GB+256GB) on realme TikTok Shop at an introductory price of PHP6,299 until August 18 only. Each purchase within this duration comes with a FREE TechLife Power Bank S101 10000mAh worth PHP799 while stocks last.





    5 top video game consoles for gaming

    Whether you are a pro console gamer or just need to upgrade your gaming console, choosing the right one can be tricky with so many available options. You can find various gaming consoles, from the Microsoft Xbox series to Sony PlayStation. However, for the best gaming experience, you must choose the one that aligns with your gaming needs.

    Here, we will discuss the top 5 video gaming consoles to help you select the best one. Let’s have a look!

    Microsoft Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S

    The top video game consoles on our list are Microsoft Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. These are the two best gaming consoles that provide high performance, 4k resolution, and smooth gameplay at 60 frames per second.

    The Xbox Series X is best for gamers who want high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay. On the other hand, the Xbox Series S is one of the most affordable options available. However, series S is less powerful and smaller than series X.

    Nintendo Switch OLED

    Nintendo Switch OLED video gaming console is the best option for those who want to play both in-house and on-the-go gaming. This video gaming console has a 7-inch screen and amazing graphics to enhance your gaming experience. The Switch OLED has 64GB internal storage, 4GB RAM, and great battery timing. However, this gaming console is slower than Series X.

    If you need a break from intense gaming, you can relax with a solitaire game, which you can easily download on the Nintendo Switch OLED. This console is also perfect for playing casual games like solitaire.

    Steam Deck OLED

    The next gaming console on our list is Steam Deck. This gaming console has a 7.4-inch display and a storage capacity of 512GB. It provides smooth, vibrant gameplay, and you can easily enjoy your video games for 3 to 12 hours. You can also run other PC games and applications on Steam Deck OLED. However, this gaming console is slightly bulkier than other options.

    Sony PlayStation 5

    Sony PlayStation 5 is one of the latest and most powerful video game consoles. With a storage capacity of 825GB and a RAM of 16GB, this console provides an unstoppable gaming experience. It has amazing visuals and high-quality graphics to take your video gaming to another level. However, it does not have the Xbox’s quick resume feature.

    For a calm change from the intense gaming sessions on your PS5, you can play classic card games like FreeCell. You can Play FreeCell Now on your PS5’s web browser for a relaxing experience.

    Miyoo Mini Plus+

    Last but not least, Miyoo Mini Plus+ has 64GB storage and 128MB RAM, providing a good video gaming time of up to 7 hours. This gaming console has a 3.5-inch display and also provides wireless Wi-Fi connectivity. However, the only drawback is that lacks Bluetooth connectivity.

    What are some essential gadgets for better WiFi connectivity

    Reliable WiFi connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity for almost every one of us because our lives are heavily reliant on a stable and working internet connection. From remote work and online education to online shopping and smart home systems, a reliable WiFi connection is essential for everything. However, most people around the world face several WiFi issues, including slow speeds, unreliable connections, dead zones, and unstable connections.

    Most of these problems can be fixed easily and the good news is that there are various gadgets available in the market that can improve WiFi connection performance and provide seamless connectivity. So, below we have discussed some essential gadgets for better WiFi connectivity.

    WiFi Router

    The most important gadget for any WiFi network is a WiFi router. A WiFi router is the cornerstone of any wireless network and it allows your devices to connect to the internet by distributing signals throughout a space. A high-quality WiFi router can make a significant difference in improving WiFi connectivity.

    While choosing a WiFi router, look for a router that has dual-band or tri-band capabilities along with support for the latest WiFi standards and beamforming technology to get the best value for your money. Even if you are a business owner using Lpb.wifi for commercial purposes, make sure that you choose a high-quality WiFi router and hotspot to provide the best connectivity.

    WiFi Extender or Repeater

    If you are struggling with dead zones or poor connectivity in some areas of your house, then a WiFi Extender or Repeater might be a good option to improve WiFi connectivity. WiFi extenders or repeaters are devices that can extend the coverage of your WiFi network and eliminate dead zones in your house by amplifying your WiFi signal.

    Most of these devices are budget-friendly and can cover areas in your home where the signal is weak. WiFi Extenders and Repeaters are quite easy to install and set up through 10.0.0.1/admin or the default gateway address pre-defined by the manufacturer.

    Powerline Adapters

    Another gadget that can improve WiFi connectivity is powerline adapters. Powerline adapters use your home’s electrical wiring to extend your network’s range. If your WiFi router is struggling to penetrate walls and the signals are weak or your home has thick walls or multiple floors where WiFi extenders are ineffective, then a powerline adapter is the gadget that can help save the day for you.

    Network Switch

    Although network switches don’t improve the connectivity of WiFi connections per-se, these gadgets can help you connect multiple wired devices to your network. If you want a fast and stable internet connection for certain devices such as gaming consoles, PC, or smart TVs, then a network switch might be a good choice. While choosing a network switch for your network, choose a switch that has enough ports to accommodate all your devices and has support for gigabit speeds for fast data transfer.

    Mesh WiFi System

    If you want to have a large home or apartment with multiple floors in which your WiFi router and WiFi Repeater are unable to resolve the issue of WiFi connectivity, then you need to ditch your WiFi router and go for a Mesh WiFi system. A mesh WiFi system consists of a main router and multiple satellite nodes placed around your home to create a single seamless network with no connectivity issues.

    A mesh WiFi system is superior to a traditional WiFi router in multiple ways including the ability to expand the network at any time to improve coverage, dead zone elimination, a strong signal throughout your home, and easy network management.

    6 must-have computer accessories to enhance productivity

    Computers and laptops have become indispensable companions for many of us in this digital age. Whether it is a university assignment, work-related tasks, connecting with others, or buying something, our computers and laptops allow us to achieve almost everything. Although the computer itself is equipped with the right technology to pave through to a world of endless possibilities, having the right set of computer accessories can make things even better.

    If you are someone who wants to boost their productivity on their computer, then you have come to the right place. Below we have discussed some essential and important computer accessories that can boost your productivity.

    1. Ergonomic Keyboard

    Typing has become a part of almost everyone’s routine and typing for extended periods can lead to discomfort and strain on wrists. With the help of ergonomic keyboards, you can avoid the discomfort and wrist strains that come with excessive periods of typing. These keyboards are designed to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries as they promote a natural hand position while typing.

    Ergonomic keyboards are designed in such a way that they allow you to have a more natural and relaxed posture while typing so that you can type for longer periods and take a typing test on TypingTest.Co without any discomfort.

    2. Wireless Mouse

    We are living in an age where there is a wireless alternative available for everything and computer mice are no different. It is time that you say goodbye to wired mice and welcome a wireless mouse. These wireless mice can not only declutter your workspace but also provide you with greater freedom and flexibility in terms of movement. With a wireless mouse, you no longer have to worry about tangled cables and limited movement, as these provide seamless navigation and precision that can boost your productivity.

    3. Noise-Canceling Headphones

    Having a pair of good headphones with noise-cancellation features can really boost your productivity. Whether you are a professional or a gamer, a noise-canceling headset can make all the difference in the world and can be a game changer for you. If you find yourself getting distracted too much while working, then this gadget can make things easier for you by blocking out all external noises and distractions so that you can focus and immerse yourself in work.

    4. Cable Management System

    Having a cable management system is very important to have an organized and decluttered workspace. Tangled cables not only look bad but can also hamper your productivity by giving disorganized vibes. A cable management system can help in this regard by organizing the cable and tidying up your workspace to have a clutter-free area. Not only will it give your workplace a more professional and organized look but it will also prevent accidental cable disconnection that might hamper your productivity.

    5. Laptop Stand

    If you use a laptop instead of a desktop PC, then a laptop stand might be the gadget that will help elevate your productivity levels. People who use laptops are familiar with poor posture and neck strain; however, having a laptop stand can help you say goodbye to poor posture and neck strain. With the help of a laptop stand, you can elevate your laptop to your eye level without you having to bend or sit in an uncomfortable posture.

    A laptop stand provides an ergonomic and comfortable viewing angle that makes it easier for you to work and check your typing speed on TypingTest.co without feeling any sort of discomfort. If you want to try, then here’s the 3 min test to assess your typing speed. A laptop stand also promotes airflow and prevents your laptop from overheating.

    6. External Storage Drive

    Running out of storage space is a common issue that most people face and it can slow you down and hinder your productivity, as you spend time clearing up the storage space. Having an external storage drive provides a convenient and easy solution to this problem, as you can easily offload some files from your computer and free up space on your computer so that you can work with full focus without getting distracted.

    TeamViewer vs Skype—which is ideal for remote control?

    TeamViewer and Skype are two popular remote control tools. Both offer advanced features but serve different purposes. Skype is used to communicate with friends and family and to arrange professional meetings. TeamViewer is a professional tool for file sharing and online video meetings.

    To pick the right tool, you must know some key differences between TeamViewer and Skype. In this article, we will discuss some major differences between TeamViewer and Skype to help you choose the right tool. Let’s get in!

    Some Key Differences Between TeamViewer and Skype

    Here are some important differences between TeamViewer and Skype:

    Purpose

    TeamViewer is designed for remote access. It allows users to transfer files, control computers remotely, and host meetings. On the other hand, Skype is a communication app designed to stay connected with friends and family members and host online meetings.

    Security Features

    TeamViewer provides advanced security features such as controlled access, end-to-end encryption, and two-factor authentication. Skype also provides good security features, but they are less robust than TeamViewer.

    If you use Skype for macOS, you will find its security measures suitable for everyday communication but might not offer the same level of protection as TeamViewer’s advanced options.

    Accessibility

    TeamViewer is commonly used on desktops and laptops. In contrast, Skype can be used on smartphones, tablets, and computers. So, in terms of accessibility, Skype is better than TeamViewer.

    Cost

    Skype is a free-to-download tool that you can use to make free online video calls and messaging. On the other hand, TeamViewer is a paid tool used for remote access and online meetings.

    Collaboration Tools

    In terms of collaboration tools, TeamViewer is better than Skype. As designed for collaboration and remote access, TeamViewer offers a range of collaboration tools such as file sharing, whiteboarding, and recording meeting sessions. However, Skype may not provide such collaborative tools as it is designed for online connectivity.

    TeamViewer VS Skype: Which is Ideal for Remote Control?

    Deciding between TeamViewer and Skype depends on your needs. If you purely need a communication tool for messaging and video calls, you should choose Skype. But, if you need a tool with the best security features for remote access, file sharing, and managing computers remotely or arranging online meetings, TeamViewer is your go-to option.

    Moreover, if you need a free tool for video calling, Skype is best for you as TeamViewer is paid, and Skype is free. So, both TeamViewer and Skype have their own unique features, and to choose the best one, you must know your requirements.

    5 cybersecurity tips for small and medium business

    According to statistics, around 46% of cyber breaches impact small to medium businesses with less than 1,000 employees. This shows that small and medium businesses (SMBs) are a big target of cybercriminals because these businesses often lack the resources to implement effective security measures. However, it is important for SMBs to implement cybersecurity measures to protect their data and sensitive information from hacker attacks.

    Here, we will share the five simple yet effective cybersecurity tips for small and medium businesses. Let’s have a look!

    Backup your Data Regularly

    Data is the backbone of any business. Hackers can attack the data of SMBs to steal their sensitive information. This can result in heavy business loss and reputation damage. So, SMBs must always backup their data regularly to prevent data loss.

    Regular data backup makes sure that you do not lose any data, even if hackers attack it. SMBs should store their data at multiple locations and should use reliable storage solutions such as cloud storage.

    Training and Awareness

    Training and awareness are the key to protecting SMBs from cybersecurity threats. Small and medium businesses must train their staff about the latest security threats and how to deal with them.

    For this, they should conduct regular training programs and awareness sessions. SMBs should also teach their employees how to identify and handle phishing emails and other suspicious links.

    Secure Your Wi-Fi

    Unsecured Wi-Fi can be a route for many cybersecurity threats. Hackers can access your devices and data using Wi-Fi. Thus, it is important to have a secure internet connection. For this, SMBs should use a strong password for their Wi-Fi. Also, businesses should avoid using less secure versions such as WEP. Instead, they should use more secure versions such as WAP2.

    To ensure your Wi-Fi is secure, knowing your IP address and monitoring any suspicious activity is important. You can learn more at whatismyip.uno about your IP address and online security protocols.

    Use Antivirus Software

    Using antivirus software is a simple and effective measure to prevent cybersecurity threats. Antivirus software protects your system from any harmful viruses. SMBs should always invest in reliable antivirus software and schedule regular scans to automatically check for any viruses or threats.

    Keep your Software and System Up-to-date

    Keeping software and systems up-to-date is one of the effective ways to prevent cybersecurity threats. SMBs should always enable automatic updates on their systems to avoid security vulnerabilities. Moreover, they should update their applications, web browsers, and other security tools for better protection.