Author: Press Release

  • Bring smiles and spread the cheer with Watsons Holiday gift sets

    Bring smiles and spread the cheer with Watsons Holiday gift sets

    Looking for gifts that will bring smiles this holiday season?

    Gift-giving is the love language during Christmas, and it’s the most wonderful time to shower your loved ones with thoughtful gifts that spark joy. Watsons, the most loved health and beauty retailer in the Philippines, is here to spread the cheer and share the gift of health and wellness with Watsons Holiday gift sets!

    MAINBANNER

    Starting at just P99, you can choose from a wide selection of curated gift bundles and limited-edition sets that will dazzle under the Christmas tree. Watsons Holiday gift sets are practical, beautifully packaged in festive designs, and allow you to add a personal touch to your gifts. 

    Shop with glee with exciting deals and promos on a wide variety of health and beauty products, including luxurious body care sets, beauty and personal care essentials, and enchanting scents from Bath and Bliss, Glamworks, Silk Secrets, Mirame, Dr. Sensitive, and FRESH Oralab.

    You can Mix & Match your gift bundles or buy more to enjoy great discounts such as Any 3 for P279, Any 3 for P399, Any 3 for P549, and Any 6 for P1,099. 

    Fill your Christmas carts with Buy 1 Take 1 deals on festive Holiday-themed products, such as pampering Vanilla Peppermint, Cherry Almond, and Crispy Apple hand soaps from Body Treats.

    Show your sweet side with Vanilla Sugar Pie, Raspberry Shea Shake, and Candy Apple Bouquet limited edition body wash variants from Glamworks, also available at Buy 1, Take 1 deals.

    Don’t forget to use your Watsons Club membership to unlock members-exclusive deals. Get a free duffle bag with a minimum purchase of P8,000, or spend a minimum of P20,000 for a duffle bag and stuffed toy, or P26,000 for a duffle bag and 2 stuffed toys. 

    ADDITIONAL BANNER 1

    Members get level-up perks as every single minimum receipt of P1,500 is a ticket away to win a brand new Lexus car or 10,000 Watsons points! Double up your entries and shop online using the Watsons app.

    Head over to 1,100+ Watsons stores nationwide or shop conveniently through the app or website. Choose the Click & Collect feature to pick up your order in 30 minutes or the Express Delivery option to receive your orders in 3 hours or less.

    Not yet a Watsons Club Member? Download the app, sign up, and start shopping to access more exclusive promos and benefits. 

  • Best of the Philippines at CCA Manila; CCA Manila hones culinary aspirations of students from all over the regions

    Best of the Philippines at CCA Manila; CCA Manila hones culinary aspirations of students from all over the regions

    Celebrating 28 years as the Philippines’ top culinary school, the Center for Culinary Arts (CCA Manila) continues to set the benchmark for culinary education and innovation, with a strong emphasis on Filipino cuisine. 

    Through its new Fundamentals of Filipino Cuisine Program (FFCP), a comprehensive 16-day short course, CCA Manila immerses students in the art of Filipino gastronomy, culinary heritage, and technique.

    “This innovative program not only aligns with the government’s efforts to promote Filipino cuisine but also solidifies CCA Manila’s commitment to showcasing the potential of our local ingredients and traditions on a global scale,” says Dr. Ma. Veritas F. Luna, Chancellor of CCA Manila. “We are proud to say that we have consistently celebrated and elevated Filipino food culture.”

    The FFCP offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning with a daily one-hour lecture followed by five hours of hands-on kitchen experience. Students are also given two field trips for real-world immersion, allowing them to experience firsthand the essence of Filipino culinary culture. 

    “Students gain insight into the diverse flavors across our 17 regions, learning ingredient selection, preparation, and the intricacies of cooking and plating regional dishes,” adds Dr. Luna. “With students from across the Philippines, CCA Manila continues to cultivate culinary talent that will thrive both locally and internationally.”

    Students from the regions flock to CCA Manila

    CCA Manila’s flagship program, the Diploma in Culinary Arts and Technology Management (DCATM), shapes students into future culinary leaders, equipping them with hands-on culinary skills and food service management expertise. Through this holistic program, students develop entrepreneurial skills alongside culinary craftsmanship, setting them up for success in the global food industry.

    Bianca Llanes 1

    Among the current batch of students are talented individuals from various regions. For example, Bianca Llanes from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, now in level 3 of the DCATM program, shares her pride in being mentored by industry-renowned chefs at CCA. “I’m excited for my growth in culinary skills under the guidance of top chefs. Their support gives me confidence as I advance in my studies.” 

    Meinhard Godoy from Brooke’s Point, Palawan, a first-year DCATM student, expresses his gratitude for CCA’s supportive environment during his adjustment to life away from home. “I am proud to be part of this world. Culinary education demands hard work, but CCA Manila’s mentors have shown me incredible support and inspired me to embrace the challenges.”

    Excel McCouley Salazar

    Another first-year DCATM student, Excel Mc Couley Salazar, also from Palawan, aspires to make an impact in the culinary field. “I want my food to not only bring joy but also convey culture and history. My education at CCA will help me achieve this vision as I explore my personal and professional culinary journey.” 

    Meanwhile, level 10 student Vince Caabay, from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, values the hands-on experiences he has gained at CCA. “Being a CCA student has given me the opportunity to work alongside professional chefs, and that exposure inspires me to strive for excellence. 

    Vince Caabay

    In the future, Vince plans to work at a fine dining restaurant or hotel: “I look forward to the many doors this education will open for me, both locally and abroad. I know my CCA Manila education will help me achieve my goal to be a renowned chef someday.”

    “CCA Manila continues to welcome culinary aspirants from all over the country. We are committed to transforming dreams into reality through a hands-on, industry-relevant education. With guidance from seasoned chef-instructors, students are prepared to make their mark in the culinary world,” said Dr. Luna. 

    For inquiries about the DCATM program and FFCP course, call 0917.840.8400, or email talktous@cca-manila.edu.ph. Visit the website: www.cca-manila.edu.ph.

  • Your next fitness activity may be filled with goodness!

    Your next fitness activity may be filled with goodness!

    If you have an active lifestyle, you’ve probably switched between different fitness activities. You may try yoga this week, then pilates the next, then maybe a couple rounds of padel in between. There’s nothing wrong with this. This is how you keep yourself fit and healthy. 

    Almond Koka

    This is why Almond Koka partnered with three of Manila’s most exciting fitness establishments to create the Goodness Everywhere Roadshow. From November to January 2025, you can now discover the goodness of Almond Koka at Soulspace Yoga, Onelife Studio, and Play Padel Philippines. 

    With the Goodness Everywhere Roadshow, you can get a taste of Almond Koka at these establishments and get exciting prizes when you complete their challenges.

    Soulspace Yoga started with their 30-Day Goodness Program last November 11, 2024 where goodness awaits those who can complete 30 consecutive yoga sessions.

    On November 23-24, 2024, Play Padel Philippines and Almond Koka has a lot in store for players who will do the Almond Koka Padel Pose.

    Finally, by December, Onelife Studio will also have its Almond Koka Goodness Rewards Program. The first 10 clients that can complete 8 sessions in 30 days are up for a surprise. This program is available in all its 5 branches. 

    It’s time to end the year with goodness. Try your next fitness activities at Soulspace Yoga, Play Padel Philippines and Onelife Studio, and experience the goodness of Almond Koka for yourself. 

  • Miss Saigon Stars Laurence Mossman and Kiara Dario Headline ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ One-Night-Only Concert in Manila

    Miss Saigon Stars Laurence Mossman and Kiara Dario Headline ‘Stars of Tomorrow’ One-Night-Only Concert in Manila

    Fresh from the internationally acclaimed Miss Saigon tour, celebrated theatre stars Laurence Mossman and Kiara Dario will captivate Manila audiences in a one-night-only concert, “Stars of Tomorrow,” on December 1, 2024, at Pardon My French in Makati. This exclusive evening promises an unforgettable experience, blending live music, fine dining, and world-class performances, with a lineup of Broadway, OPM, and Miss Saigon favourites.

    SOT Poster

    As they prepare for an exciting new chapter in London, Laurence and Kiara are thrilled to bring their passion for theatre back to Manila in a meaningful way. Proceeds from this event will directly support their transition to London and their pursuit of international theatre careers.

    “Manila has been the heart of our journey, and we couldn’t imagine a better way to celebrate our dreams with the community that has lifted us every step of the way,” shares Dario. “This concert is our way of sharing the magic of theatre and thanking everyone who’s been part of this adventure,” adds Mossman.

    Both artists began their theatre careers in Manila but only crossed paths during the Miss Saigon Australia tour. Their shared passion soon blossomed into a partnership both on and off the stage. Now, as they prepare to move to London together, they celebrate their newfound love with Miss Saigon classics and a heartfelt tribute to Manila, where it all began.

    IG Story Guest Artists

    The concert will feature musical direction by renowned director Rony Fortich, with special guest appearances by Filipino music icon Martin Nievera and award-winning theatre actress Gab Pangilinan. Audiences can expect a vibrant mix of theatre classics, OPM hits, and iconic songs central to Laurence and Kiara’s careers.

    In addition to the performances, attendees can show further support by purchasing limited-edition StageFit t-shirts. Recently launched, StageFit is an apparel line created to fundraise for Laurence and Kiara’s London journey, with future plans to grow into an activewear brand for artists and the theatre community. All proceeds from merchandise sales will go directly toward their transition.

    Event Details:

    Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024
    Venue: Pardon My French, 110 Jupiter Street, Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City
    Doors Open: 7:00 PM, with dinner service
    Concert Starts: 8:30 PM

    Ticket Packages:

    • Premium Ticket – PHP 4,400
      • Includes a 3-course meal + drink, premium table with full stage view
    • Standard Ticket – PHP 3,300
      • Includes bar bites + drink, standard table (may have partial view)

    Tickets: Limited seats available. For reservations, please contact +63 917 823 0091 or email pardonmyfrenchph@gmail.com.

    Join Laurence Mossman and Kiara Dario for this heartfelt farewell and celebration, showcasing the magic of live theatre and the power of dreams.

  • nubia V70 Design Launches in the Philippines: Your Perfect Partner for Capturing Life’s Best Moments

    nubia V70 Design Launches in the Philippines: Your Perfect Partner for Capturing Life’s Best Moments

    Life’s greatest moments deserve to be documented and shared with others. From photos of casual barkada hangouts to videos of lively nights out, it is essential to bring the perfect mobile phone to help capture snapshots to preserve memories forever.

    nubia Philippines recognizes this need and brings the newly launched nubia V70 Design smartphone, the latest device that blends style, functionality, and affordability—now available in the Philippines. Designed for today’s fast-paced lifestyle, the nubia V70 Design empowers you to live in the moment while capturing it beautifully, making it the perfect companion for both everyday life and special occasions.

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    A Camera That’s Always Ready

    When it comes to creating lasting memories, a great camera is non-negotiable. The nubia V70 Design is equipped with a 50MP AI Camera that delivers stunning, high-quality photos and videos. Whether it’s vibrant portraits with artistic background blur or sharp night shots with RAW Super Night Shot, this phone ensures you’re always photo-ready.

    Need to refine your images? The AI Magic Photos feature makes editing a breeze. Clean up backgrounds with the Magic Eraser, and keep your memories perfectly organized in the Smart Gallery, which even suggests captions for your snaps.

    Bringing Your Memories to Life

    Reliving your favorite moments has never looked better. The nubia V70 Design features a 6.7-inch HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smooth visuals and vibrant colors for all your photos and videos. From scrolling through your gallery to streaming your favorite content, the experience is seamless and immersive.

    Stay on top of your day with Live Island 2.0, which lets you navigate notifications and multitask effortlessly. Plus, with DTS audio processing, your favorite music, movies, and videos sound better than ever.

    nubia V70 Design

    Built to Keep Up With You

    Life in the Philippines is busy, and the nubia V70 Design is built to handle it all. With a 5000mAh battery, you’ll have enough power for long days out and endless photo sessions. When you need to recharge, its 22.5W fast-charging system gets you back in action quickly.

    Under the hood, the phone’s 14GB (4GB + 10GB) Dynamic RAM, 256GB storage, and Octa-core processor ensure smooth multitasking and enough space for all your apps, photos, and videos.

    Stylish, Affordable, and Ready for Gifting

    The nubia V70 Design doesn’t just perform well—it looks great, too. Its premium leather-textured finish and glassback available in Stone Gray and Jade Green, adds a touch of sophistication to your everyday style. And at just Php 5,299.00, it’s an incredible value for a smartphone that does it all.

    Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? The nubia V70 Design is thoughtful, practical, and stylish—ideal for loved ones who enjoy capturing and sharing their best moments. Whether it’s for a friend, sibling, or even yourself, it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

    Exclusive Shopee Payday Sale: November 28-30

    To celebrate its launch, nubia Philippines is offering exciting deals during the Shopee Payday Sale this November 30. Shoppers can enjoy up to Php 795 off using Shopee vouchers and get a FREE speaker with every purchase—available only while supplies last!

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    A Celebration of Innovation for Filipinos

    The launch of the nubia V70 Design is a milestone for nubia Philippines, reflecting the brand’s commitment to offering innovative, budget-friendly devices that fit perfectly into the lives of Filipino users. With its balance of style, performance, and price, the nubia V70 Design is set to make waves this holiday season and beyond.

    Experience the nubia V70 Design today! Visit any nubia concept store or shop online on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok.

    For more details, check out nubia Philippines’ official social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

  • MI KIDS CAN! Eco-Bazaar and Thrift Market comes to Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center on December 1

    MI KIDS CAN! Eco-Bazaar and Thrift Market comes to Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center on December 1

    Multiple Intelligence International School (MIIS) invites parents, kids and the general public to the exciting  “MI Kids Can! #4GreenPH: Eco-Bazaar and Thrift Market.”  The event will be held on December 1 from 10AM to 6 PM at the Activity Center of Ayala Malls U.P. Town Center.  Admission is free.  It is being held in partnership with Ayala Malls and UP Town Center.

    MIIS KIDS BAZAAR a

    The MI Kids Can! For Kids, By Kids Bazaar started in 2000 as the FIRST Entrepreneurship Bazaar in the Philippines that was run by kids. The MI Kids Can! Bazaar is a unique opportunity for students to gain entrepreneurial skills and use their intelligences to make a difference. This year’s MI Kids Can! Bazaar showcases a diverse range of student-led businesses, each championing a meaningful cause. The public can find different products from beeswax wrapping cloth and handwoven clothing using weaves from indigenous communities to a bayong-all-you-can experience where shoppers can purchase a locally woven bayong (handcrafted by women weavers) and fill it with as much fresh, locally sourced produce as it can hold! All the products will be sold by students and benefit their future and the different communities that they impact. The Bazaar will also feature a thrift market which is a great opportunity to breathe new life into pre-loved clothes and items.  Shop sustainably for clothes, bags, toys, gifts, and more this holiday season!

    Students participate actively at the MIIS Kids Can Bazaar copy

    MIIS encourages its students to be youth entrepreneurs at an early age, honing their skills and talents for sustainable causes. The school was awarded the Go Negosyo Youth Entrepreneurship Award, a testament to their commitment to implementing entrepreneurship in the education of the next generation. Over the past 28 years, the MI Kids Can! Bazaars have encouraged the youth to support reforestation and greening initiatives, indigent children and communities, and promote sustainability.

    MIIS is the pioneer multiple intelligence school in the Philippines whose practice is based on the theory of Harvard psychologist Dr. Howard Gardner. MIIS believes every child is SMART and the school nurtures the 8 intelligences of each child for a successful feature: Linguistic, Logical-mathematical, Spatial, Body-kinesthetic, Musical, Naturalist, Interpersonal, and Intrapersonal.  Here, students will discover and develop their multiple intelligences through personalized learning and opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global exposure.  

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    The mission of MIIS, an accredited school by the Council of International Schools, is to foster the holistic development of students and their multiple intelligences, through meaningful learning and a culture of respect, to enable them to be leaders in the 21st century and global citizens who will use their intelligences to make a difference. 

    From its original site in Loyola Heights, Quezon City, MIIS is set to move soon into its “School of the Future” campus in Parklinks by Ayala Land and Eton Properties in what is called Metro Manila’s Greenest Urban Estate. Bordering Quezon City and Pasig, the MIIS Parklinks campus will have state-of-the-art facilities that will allow Filipino families to benefit from a globally competitive, progressive, and internationally-accredited education at an accessible price point. MIIS is excited to be the anchor school at the said estate that embodies a sustainable, healthier way to live, work, and play.  

    To know more about MIIS and the MI Kids Can! Eco-Bazaar and Thrift Market, follow MIIS’ official Facebook Page and Instagram account or contact marketing@mischool.edu.ph . 

  • Stress-Free Holiday Feasts with TGI Fridays and Watami Platters

    Stress-Free Holiday Feasts with TGI Fridays and Watami Platters

    The holiday season is here, and while it brings joy and reunions, it also comes with the inevitable hustle and bustle of preparations. But this year can be different—stress-free, fuss-free, and filled with delicious moments. Thanks to TGI Fridays and Watami, hosting your Christmas parties, reunions, and Noche Buena gatherings just got a whole lot easier!

    TGI Fridays and Watami Holiday Platters

    Celebrate with TGI Fridays’ Hearty To-Go Platters

    TGI Fridays has created a lineup of festive platters that combine their signature flavors with the convenience of ready-to-serve dishes. Perfect for potlucks, office parties, or family feasts, these platters are hearty enough to serve 5-6 people each. Here’s what’s on the menu:

    TGIFridays TO GO PLATTERS

    Starters and Salads

    • Oriental Sesame Salad (₱1,090): A refreshing mix of romaine, red radish, cashews, mandarin oranges, and crispy vermicelli, tossed in roasted sesame dressing.
    • Classic Caesar Salad (₱1,325): A timeless favorite with romaine, parmesan, bacon, and croutons, drizzled with creamy Caesar dressing.

    Appetizers

    • Fridays Mozzarella (₱1,535): Indulge in gooey, melty mozzarella coated in golden crispiness—a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

    Pasta

    • Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta (₱1,590): Spaghetti in a spicy Alfredo sauce, paired with tender chicken, shrimp, and red bell peppers, topped with parmesan cheese.

    Main Dishes

    • Baby Back Ribs (₱3,495): Fall-off-the-bone goodness with a sweet and tangy glaze—perfect for meat lovers.
    • Filipino Pork Liempo (₱2,135): A sweet-savory delight cooked to perfection.

    Kid-Friendly Favorites

    • Chicken Fingers Platter (₱1,835): Hand-battered, fried to a crisp, and served with honey mustard dressing, potato chips, or fries—loved by kids and adults alike.
    TGI Fridays Platters

    TGI Fridays’ platters are just a click away via Grab or Bistro Delivers. Perfect for last-minute party prep. Just order, serve, and enjoy the festivities! Follow tgifridaysph for updates.

    Add a Japanese Flair with Watami’s Party Platters

    If you’re looking for a Japanese twist this holiday season, Watami’s Party Platters are here to elevate your celebrations. Infused with authentic umami flavors, these dishes are perfect for potluck socials or Christmas feasts. With options good for 5-6 people, these dishes are perfect for potluck socials or year-end celebrations. Here’s what Watami has in store:

    Watami Party Platter

    Appetizers

    • Watami Salad (₱1,175): A fresh, healthy mix of greens that’s a perfect starter.
    • Shrimp Tempura Platter (₱1,475): Crispy, light-battered shrimp tempura that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

    Main Courses

    • Chicken Teriyaki (₱1,320): Sweet and savory perfection that’s a staple of any Japanese spread.
    • Assorted Chicken Skewers Party Platter (₱1,325): Skewered delights with bold flavors, grilled to perfection.
    Watami Platters

    Rice and Noodle Dishes

    • Pepper Beef Rice Party Platter (₱1,375): A hearty dish filled with tender beef and peppery goodness.
    • Chahan Rice Party Platter (₱1,045): Classic fried rice with a flavorful twist.
    • Yakisoba Platter (₱1,705): Stir-fried noodles bursting with umami flavor.
    • Stir-Fried Udon Platter (₱1,425): Thick, chewy noodles coated in a savory sauce.
    Watami Tempura Platter

    Sushi Selections

    • Sushi Platter (₱1,425 small, ₱1,995 large): Assorted sushi rolls for every taste.
    • Sushi in a Box (₱1,295 small, ₱2,095 large): Convenient, delicious, and perfect for sharing.
    • Nigiri Platter (₱1,295): A variety of fresh nigiri for sushi lovers.

    Watami’s platters are available for a limited time. Bring the essence of Japanese cuisine to your celebrations by ordering now! Follow watamiph for more updates.

    With TGI Fridays and Watami taking care of the cooking, holiday hosting becomes a breeze. These platters ensure that your celebrations are not just stress-free but filled with flavors everyone will love. Whether you’re craving hearty classics or a Japanese-inspired feast, these offerings are guaranteed to make your holiday season even more special.

  • Have Tickets, Will Travel: Filipino Concert Tourism Takes Flight with Seamless Travel Tools

    Have Tickets, Will Travel: Filipino Concert Tourism Takes Flight with Seamless Travel Tools

    From Swifties who flocked to The Eras Tour to KPop stans chasing their biases, Filipinos are increasingly willing to travel overseas to see their favorite music acts.

    Many combine these trips with vacations to fuel the growing trend of music tourism. A study by Expedia notes that 44% of the respondents would travel to take in a concert as an excuse to visit a new destination.

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    However, music tourism is an investment in itself. The costs of flights, accommodations, tickets, merchandise, and daily expenses add up, and concertgoers save for months, even years, to make it happen. 

    To protect this investment and allow Pinoys to focus on the experience of watching their idols live, finance superapp GCash offers a one-stop shop for Filipino travelers to simplify their journey. Within a single app, GCash enables users to purchase comprehensive and affordable travel insurance through GInsure and enables seamless overseas payments using the GCash card and Scan to Pay with Alipay+. 

    “Concerts are a once-in-a-lifetime experience and scoring tickets already takes a huge amount of effort and a significant budget,” said Wilfrido de Ocampo, General Manager of GInsure. “With comprehensive travel insurance and convenient payment options available in one app, we hope we can enhance their music journey by enabling them to focus on the experience, and not on worries.”

    More Music, Less Mayhem

    The influx of tourists at popular music venues and destinations can lead to challenges like jam packed flights and operational delays. GCash has partnered with trusted insurance providers Oona and Standard Insurance to protect unexpected travel expenses resulting from trip delays and cancellations, loss and damage to baggage, accidents, and illnesses. 

    “While securing tickets, flights, and accommodations are the top priorities, insurance might be an afterthought for some, until they run into issues and they end up regretting not having insurance to cover for all these hiccups,” said de Ocampo. “We’ve made it easy for Filipinos to purchase travel insurance in as little as 5 minutes, even 2 hours before your flight, through GInsure.” 

    Oona Smart Flight Delay Insurance offers instant lounge access for international flights delayed by more than 60 minutes, starting at just PHP 149. Standard Insurance Travel Protect International provides coverage for accidents, emergencies, and travel inconveniences for both domestic and international travel, starting at PHP 350.

    As international artists fly to the Philippines, this is also replicated domestically, with Filipinos from all regions traveling to Metro Manila and other major cities. With premiums starting at PHP 103 for local travel, Standard Insurance Travel Protect Saver Plus provides coverage for accidents, emergencies, and travel inconveniences.

    “Unlike the painstaking experience of having to score a ticket for an in-demand show, purchasing insurance on GCash can be done with just a few taps” de Ocampo added. Users can buy  their travel insurance on GCash by accessing GInsure on the GCash dashboard and tapping ‘Travel.’ They can then choose their insurance product, read through the benefits and coverage, fill in the questionnaire and traveler details, and complete the payment using their GCash account – no need for physical documents.

    Going Cashless for the Concert Craze

    Concertgoers also deal with payments during the day of the event and their extended vacation. Long lines at concession stands, food establishments, and merchandise booths can be frustrating, especially when fumbling for cash, particularly foreign currency. 

    GCash makes this seamless as travelers can use GCash’s Scan-to-Pay feature in over 10 million stores powered by Alipay+, including retail stores, food establishments, groceries and convenience stores. One can scan the QR code or generate a code for the merchant to scan and once paid, have the option to view, download, and share the receipt, which shows the amount in both the Philippine Peso and the local currency. 

    Even without internet access, users can use GCash to tap and pay at groceries, restaurants, retail stores, and transportation. The GCash Visa card, connected to the user’s GCash wallet, doubles as a prepaid debit card, enabling concertgoers to pay at all 100 million merchants that accept Visa in the Philippines and overseas. The GCash Visa card can also be used to withdraw money from any Visa or BancNet ATM across 200 countries and territories. 

    To empower travelers to be on top of their expenses, GCash shows a user’s wallet balance in the local currency of their current country. Users will also receive real-time alerts after their transactions.

    “We design our services to provide budget-conscious travelers with transparency and real-time updates about their transactions. On top of that, our zero service fee and low foreign exchange rate helps ensure one’s travel budget goes directly to their experience.” noted de Ocampo.

    Unforgettable concerts, no matter the destination, are a combination of thorough preparation, excitement, and a financial app that offers peace of mind. GCash aims to be every Filipino’s travel buddy, so they can forget the concert bumps and fully embrace the moment. 

    Ready to go on your next concert trip? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

    About GCash

    GCash is the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and Largest Cashless Ecosystem. Through the GCash App, users can easily purchase prepaid airtime; pay bills via partner billers nationwide; send and receive money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts; purchase from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers; and get access to savings, credit, loans, insurance and invest money, and so much more, all at the convenience of their smartphones. Its mobile wallet operations are handled by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt, the first and only $5 billion unicorn in the Philippines.

    GCash is a staunch supporter of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly UN SDGs 5,8,10, and 13, which focus on safety & security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, respectively.

  • Unlock Next-Level Perks with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya

    Unlock Next-Level Perks with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya

    Ready to take your shopping game to the next-level? Say hello to the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card by Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines. In just three months, over 50,000 Filipinos have already snagged this card, enjoying a high-tech credit experience with unbeatable cashback rewards. It’s officially one of the fastest-growing credit cards around, and for many, it’s even their very first! 

    maya landerscashbackeverydaycreditcard

    If you’re looking to make your shopping trips more rewarding, this is the card you don’t want to miss. Here’s why you’d want in:

    More Bang for Your Buck

    Every spend with the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card enhances your shopping experience, letting you earn up to ₱200,000 in cashback annually, redeemable at Landers. Enjoy up to 5% cashback at Landers Superstore, 2% on dining, and 1% on nearly everything else. The best part? There are no annual fees, so you can maximize your savings. Plus, the Maya app makes it a breeze to track your cashback earnings and redeem vouchers, keeping your rewards always within reach!

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    Next-level Tech to Keep You in Control

    Tired of managing your card like a chore? Not anymore! Now, you can effortlessly track your spending, set limits, and even choose your billing date—all within the Maya app. 

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    Need to change your PIN? Done. Want to set daily spending limits? Easy. You can even turn foreign transactions on or off with just a tap—no bank calls necessary! And with its dynamic CVV (aka fresh security every time), your online shopping is more secure than ever.

    Getting Started? Too Easy!

    Wave goodbye to lengthy applications! Once you’re approved, your virtual card is instantly available in the app for immediate online shopping. When your physical card arrives, activating it takes just a tap, and you’ll be ready to shop at over 130 million merchants worldwide, thanks to Visa’s extensive network.

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    “With this card, we’re giving Filipinos the power to control their credit and enjoy the rich rewards they earn, in an intuitive way. It’s designed to make managing your money seamless and take your credit card experience to the next level,” shared Shailesh Baidwan, Maya Group President and Maya Bank Co-Founder.

    Lowell Yu, Chairman of SoutheastAsia Retail, added, “Our members deserve more from their shopping experience, and this card maximizes the premium perks of their membership. The cashback rewards combined with Maya’s digital banking platform enhances every shopping experience.”

    A7B07770 EDIT

    “Visa is excited to support this innovative credit card, bringing new ways to make everyday payments even more rewarding. It’s a game-changer for daily transactions, big or small,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines. 

    So, whether you’re diving into your first credit card or seeking a powerful upgrade, this is it! For more details, visit https://www.mayabank.ph/creditcard/landers/. Stay updated by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @mayaofficialph on Twitter for more details.

  • Smart powers Stray Kids World Tour for the Ultimate K-Pop Fan Experience

    Smart powers Stray Kids World Tour for the Ultimate K-Pop Fan Experience

    Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), in partnership with Viu, is bringing subscribers an unforgettable K-Pop experience with the highly anticipated Philippine leg of the Stray Kids World Tour <dominATE BULACAN> on Nov. 23, Saturday at the Philippine Arena.

    Smart x Stray Kids

    As an exclusive perk, Smart has delighted lucky subscribers with the chance to redeem concert tickets by simply exchanging their points on the Smart App.

    Fan experiences at the Smart Live booth

    To make the event even more memorable for Stray Kids’ fandom known as “STAY”, 

    Smart is also mounting a Smart Live booth inside the arena filled with exciting activities that allow them to take home premium items.

    Fans can also hang out at the booth and make the most of its Instagram-worthy corners for instant photo souvenirs, or charge their smartphones for free to ensure they have enough battery throughout the concert.

    Moreover, subscribers can rely on Smart’s beefed-up network coverage in the arena, enabling them to post and share photos and videos of their favorite concert moments in real time.

    To cover all their connectivity needs, Smart Prepaid customers can also register to the upgraded Power All 99, which now includes 10 GB of open-access data, unlimited access to their choice of apps, and unlimited calls and texts to all networks.

    To avail of Power All 99, subscribers can log into the Smart App or their preferred mobile wallet app, dial*123# on their smartphone, or top up at convenience stores and accredited retailers nationwide.

    Self-Made K-Pop Icons

    Formed by JYP Entertainment through a survival show, Stray Kids is composed of eight members—Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, HAN, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N — who officially debuted on March 25, 2018 with their mini album, I am NOT.

    The group drew global attention with their powerful and original sound, which blends hip-hop, EDM, and lyrics that express rebellion and freedom.

    Stray Kids received numerous accolades, including Album of the Year at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards, Most Popular Group at the 2022 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), Best K-Pop at the 2023 Video Music Awards (VMA), Top K-Pop Album at the 2023 Billboard Music Awards, and K-POP Album of the Year at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards.

    Albums like NOEASY, ODDINARY, MAXIDENT, 5-STAR, ROCK-STAR, and ATE have achieved top positions on global charts, including the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard 200.

    As such, fans attending the concert can look forward to an extraordinary showcase of Stray Kids’ biggest hits and new tracks from their latest album, paired with stunning visuals and captivating performances.

    Catch Stray Kids live!

    Tickets are still available at https://qrco.de/SKZ-PH.

    Stay updated on Smart Live promos and concert news by following Smart’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.