Category: Tech

  • GoTyme Bank and PayMongo partner to provide fast,frictionless, flexible financing for SMEs

    GoTyme Bank and PayMongo Philippines, Inc. have inked a pioneering partnership to expand financial inclusion among SMEs by making business loans more accessible to thousands of SMEs under PayMongo’s merchant ecosystem. Through the partnership, businesses may avail of loans of up to P500,000 through GoTyme’s banking services.

    Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank CEO, says: “As GoTyme Bank expands to offer more banking products to our customers, we also continue to build meaningful relationships and foster financial inclusion. Through PayMongo Capital powered by GoTyme Bank, we hope to make loans and banking in general more accessible to SMEs and give them the preferred banking experience they deserve.”

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    A fully digital financial program, PayMongo Capital powered by GoTyme Bank marks both companies’ initial product offering in its expansion efforts. The streamlined and efficient application process eliminates the lengthy paperwork traditionally associated with financial services, providing a seamless, two-minute, two-screen journey. The first screen prompts users to input the desired amount and tenor, while the second screen requires confirmation and verification.

    PayMongo merchants who qualify will enjoy seamless disbursement and receive the loaned amount in one (1) banking day, depending on the receiving bank’s processing. Eligible merchants will receive instant approval, and a cash advance offer complete with flexible repayment options—no collaterals required. To track payments, merchants have access to a fully transparent view of loan transactions through the PayMongo merchant dashboard. Other notable features include:

    • Flexible term of the loan – Instead of fixed tenor or term, GoTyme Bank offers tailor-fit financing options for businesses, such as flexible tenor options that align with their unique preference.
    • Transparent pricing – Unlike traditional loans, PayMongo Capital powered by GoTyme Bank does not include hidden fees, processing fees, penalty fees, or interests. Businesses are only required to pay a competitive flat fee, simplifying the financial landscape for borrowers.
    • Flexible pay schedule based on your daily sales and unfixed monthly amount – With PayMongo Capital powered by GoTyme Bank, you can pay more or less than your monthly fee through PayMongo’s easy repayment channel that automatically deducts from a portion of your sales. So merchants can go about their business as usual without worrying about repayments.
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    Albert Tinio, GoTyme Bank co-CEO says: “Going into loans is a big step for GoTyme Bank and we are optimistic that with the partnership with PayMongo, we will be able to give SMEs the best customer service and peace of mind.

    By making the process easier and less intimidating, merchants are better empowered to make the best choices for their business.”

    “At PayMongo, our unwavering commitment to support the growth of small and medium-sized businesses takes a groundbreaking leap with our partnership with GoTyme Bank. This collaboration is a game-changer for PayMongo merchants, unlocking additional capital to propel their online enterprises toward unparalleled success,” Jojo Malolos, PayMongo CEO, says.

    “Together with GoTyme, we capitalize on our shared vision for financial inclusion, leveraging our familiarity with each other to simplify financial solutions. Our streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective approach ensures our valued merchants get the resources they need to make a meaningful impact in their ecosystems. We couldn’t be more excited about the opportunities this partnership creates for the business community. This is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, efficiency, and the success of the SMEs we serve.”

  • Xiaomi’s 11.11 Sale is Here! Get Ready for up to 60% Discounts on Xiaomi Smartphones, Wearables, and AIoT Products

    This coming 11.11, Xiaomi has something special for you. From November 11 to 15, 2023, you can enjoy up to 60% discounts on amazing Xiaomi products on Shopee and Lazada. It’s your golden opportunity to elevate your tech game, so make sure to mark your calendars and prepare for a shopping experience like no other!

    More than just a sale, the Xiaomi 11.11 Mega Sale is an opportunity for Xiaomi fans to enjoy life better by getting their hands on amazing Xiaomi products at incredible prices. Whether you need a new smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, or a pair of wireless earbuds, Xiaomi has it all.

    Discover The Xiaomi 11.11 Lineup

    With over 80 products on sale during the 11.11 event, Xiaomi is offering unbeatable prices that are too good to pass up. Here’s a glimpse of some of the incredible deals:

    Xiaomi 12 8+256GB:a flagship phone with a 6.81-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888 processor, 108MP quad-camera setup, and 4600mAh battery with 55W fast charging. Get it at a whopping 50% discount for only PhP 19,999.

    Xiaomi 12 Pro 12+256GB:a premium phone with a 6.81-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 888+ processor, 108MP quad-camera setup, 5000mAh battery, and 120W fast charging. You can also get it for 50% off, at PhP 24,599.

    Mi Smart Band 7:a fitness tracker with a 1.56-inch AMOLED screen, heart rate, SpO2, sleep tracking, and 30 sports modes. It’s now 60% off at PhP 990 – that’s a steal!

    Xiaomi Buds 3T PRO:high-quality wireless earbuds with noise cancellation, now 63% off at PhP 2,599.

    Mi 360° Home Security Camera 2K Pro: a smart camera that delivers 2K resolution, AI human detection, and a physical privacy shield. It’s now 39% off, for PhP 1,799.

    Mi Smart Speaker: a smart speaker that plays your favorite music, answers your questions, and controls your smart devices with Google Assistant. Get it at 40% off, for PhP 1,499.

    Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar: a stylish, glare-free monitor light with a remote control for brightness and color temperature, now 24% off, for PhP 1,449.

    11.11 EventKV

    These are just a few highlights of the incredible deals waiting for you. Make sure to explore the full list below to find the perfect Xiaomi product for your needs:

    Xiaomi Smartphones & TabletsDiscounted 11.11 Price
    Redmi A2+ 3+64GBPhP 3,099 (from 3,999)
    Xiaomi 12 8+256GBPhP 19,999 (from 39,999)
    Xiaomi 12 pro 12+256GBPhP 24,599 (from 48,999)
    Xiaomi 12 lite 6+128GBPhP 13,999 (from 20,999)
    Redmi 12C 6+128GBPhP 4,999 (from 7,499)
    Redmi 10 2022 4+128GBPhP 5,299 (from 8,590)
    MI PAD 5 6+128GBPhP 12,999 (from 18,999)
    MI PAD 5 6+256GBPhP 17,999 (from 21,999)
    Redmi Pad 4+128GBPhP 8,599 (from 13,999)
    Redmi Pad 6+128GBPhP 9,599 (from 14,999)
    PAD 6 8+128GBPhP 16,999 (from 20,999)
    PAD 6 8+256GBPhP 19,999 (from 21,999)
    Redmi 12 8+128PhP 6,999 (from 7,999)
    Redmi Note 12 8+256GBPhP 7,999 (from 10,999)
    Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G 8+128GBPhP 14,999 (from 16,999)
    Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G 8+256GBPhP 15,999 (from 17,999)
    Redmi Note 12 Pro + 8+256GBPhP 20,999 (from 21,999)
    Redmi Note 12 Pro 8+256GBPhP 11,999 (from 14,999)
    Redmi Note 12S 8+256GBPhP 11,999 (from 12,999 )
    Xiaomi WearablesDiscounted 11.11 Price
    Redmi Smart Band 2PhP 1,259 (from 1,499)
    Mi Smart Band 7PhP 990 (from 2,499)
    Mi Band 7 ProPhP 2,999 (from 4,599)
    Redmi Watch 3 Global Version 【in 1-year warranty】PhP 4,499 (from 4,999)
    Redmi Watch 3 ActivePhP 1,899 (from 1,999)
    Xiaomi Watch S1PhP 6,999 (from 10,999)
    S1 activePhP 4,999 (from 8,999)
    Xiaomi Smart Band 8PhP 1,899 (from 1,999)
    Xiaomi Smart Kids WatchPhP 4,899 (from 4,999)
    Redmi buds 4PhP 2,093 (from 2,499)
    Redmi buds 4 litePhP 959 (from 1,099)
    Redmi Buds 4 ActivePhP 649 (from 999)
    Redmi buds 4 proPhP 3,199 (from 3,999)
    Xiaomi Buds 3T PROPhP 2,599 (from 6,999)
    Xiaomi AIoT ProductsDiscounted 11.11 Price
    Mi In-Ear Headphones BasicPhP 179 (from 299)
    Xiaomi Compact Bluetooth Speaker 2 Global Version – WhitePhP 369 (from 888)
    Xiaomi Portable Bluetooth Speaker (Grey)PhP 999 (from 1,699)
    Xiaomi Smart SpeakerPhP 1,499 (from 1,899)
    Mi Camera 2K (Magnetic Mount)PhP 1,199 (from 1,599)
    Mi 360° Home Security Camera 2K ProPhP 1,799 (from 2,990)
    Xiaomi Smart C200PhP 1,549 (from 1,799)
    Xiaomi Smart C300PhP 2,199 (from 2,299)
    Xiaomi Smart C400PhP 2,899 (from 2,999)
    TV stick 4kPhP 2,299 (from 3,599)
    TV STICK 2KPhP 1,699 (from 2,099)
    Xiaomi TV Box S (2nd Gen) M25E MPPhP 3,199 (from 3,399)
    WIFI-PROPhP 349 (from 599)
    Mi Router 4CPhP 399 (from 699)
    Mi Router AX9000 EUPhP 13,599 (from 13,999)
    Xiaomi Mesh System AX3000(2-pack)PhP 6,599 (from 6,699)
    Mi Type-C to Lightning Cable 1mPhP 499 (from 699)
    Xiaomi Braided USB Type-C Cable 100cmPhP 99 (from 299)
    Xiaomi USB-C Cable 1m WhitePhP 99 (from 299)
    Mi 2-in-1 USB Cable (Micro USB to Type C) 100cmPhP 199 (from 299)
    Xiaomi USB Type-C to Type-C Cable 150cmPhP 259 (from 499)
    Xiaomi 20W charger (Type-C)PhP 299 (from 345)
    Mi 37 W Dual-Port Car ChargerPhP 379 (from 599)
    Xiaomi 65W GaN Charger (Type-A + Type-C) EUPhP 1,249 (from 1,699)
    Xiaomi 20W Wireless Charging Stand Global VersionPhP 799 (from 995)
    Mi 20W Wireless Car ChargerPhP 1,829 (from 2,499)
    Xiaomi 120W Charging Combo (Type-A)PhP 1,899 (from 2,299)
    Xiaomi 67W Charging Combo (Type-A)PhP 959 (from 1,199)
    Mi Dual Mode Wireless MousePhP 539 (from 699)
    Xiaomi Wireless Mouse LitePhP 439 (from 599)
    Xiaomi Wireless Keyboard and Mouse ComboPhP 1,259 (from 1,399)
    Mi Computer Monitor Light BarPhP 1,449 (from 1,899)
    Xiaomi Body Composition Scale 2 Bluetooth 5.0 RangePhP 1,199 (from 1,999)
    Mi Smart Scale 2 Global VersionPhP 599 (from 899)
    Xiaomi Vacuum Cleaner MiniPhP 1,499 (from 1,990)
    Mi Smart Electric Toothbrush T500PhP 1,299 (from 1,699)
    Xiaomi Electric Shaver S500 Global VersionPhP 1,299 (from 1,699)
    Xiaomi Electric Shaver S700PhP 4,999 (from 5,399)
    Xiaomi lonic Hair Dryer H300PhP 1,259 (from 1,799)
    Xiaomi Electric Toothbrush T700PhP 4,899 (from 4,999)
    Mi Door and Window Sensor 2PhP 499 (from 599)
    Xiaomi Smart Home Hub 2PhP 1,199 (from 1,299)
    Xiaomi Massage Gun MiniPhP 5,599 (from 5,799)
    Xiaomi Smart Plug 2 EUPhP 599 (from 689)
    Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4PhP 7,699 (from 9,999)
    Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 LitePhP 5,499 (from 7,999)
    Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 CompactPhP 4,699 (from 4,799)
    Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L EUPhP 2,899 (from 3,699)

    Make sure to visit the official Xiaomi store on Shopee and Lazada to enjoy Xiaomi’s exclusive 11.11 discounts and promotions. Your next Xiaomi device is just a click away!

  • 5 Ways to maximize your savings this 11.11

    It’s sale season once again and we are all looking forward to the best deals from our favorite brands! With Christmas around the corner – we are also on the lookout for gifts! So I’m sure we all have our alarms ready for 11.11 midnight. 

    It does not have to be all about spending though – you can also save so that you can shop more! And that is possible with ShopBack – where you can get cashback for every purchase. And with 11.11 being the biggest sale of the year – you can be assured these are the best deals that you can get thus the hashtag #PinakaExtraaa!

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    Here are our tips on how you can maximize your shopping experience with ShopBack: 

    Double Your Cashback 

    For 11.11 – users can get a chance to double their cashback when they join the challenge in the ShopBack app. Winners are picked daily and in fact there are some winners already! You can see below that some users got P400 cashback from Nike which would now be P800! That is a lot of savings. The one who shopped from Klook gets an even bigger one with now P1,500+ cashback. That is enough additional pocket money for your next trip!

    Double your cashback

    P11 New User Guarantee + P11,000 referral bonus 

    Users who sign up and make a purchase via Shopback from November 3-13 would also get a minimum guarantee of P11 cashback! For these users – if they get lower than P11 cashback on their first purchase – they would be given the remaining amount within 7 days. 

    Moreover, referring friends on ShopBack would also give you even more savings. On top of the P100 referral bonus – users also get a chance to win P11K by participating in the referral challenge. 

    P11 new user guarantee

    Higher cashback from your favorite brands 

    This is where it gets exciting – the cashback rates for your favorite brands. For example – Uniqlo is giving up to 15% cashback this 11.11. That means for a P10,000 purchase you get P1,500! That is enough for another outfit! You can maximize your savings further with travel – where you can get cashback deals from Agoda and Booking.com – for a P10,000 hotel stay you get P750 back!

    Higher cashback from your favorite brands

    Join the Shopback challenges 

    On top of the cashback you get from purchasing from brands – you can also get cashback by joining other challenges in the ShopBack app! Challenges give you bonus cashback when you complete certain actions. For instance – you can get up to P100 by just visiting stores! Another challenge also gives rewards for every purchase in a category like travel, fashion, or sports. Challenges may be accessed by tapping EARN MORE on the Shopback homescreen.

    Join the Shopback challenges

    There are also exciting challenges that you asked for! A couple of weeks ago – users were asked what deals they want and that is being given! Some of these include a 50% cashback challenge on Nike, Adidas, and more, a chance to win an P11K shopping spree with Lazada, and even a chance to win hotel stays with Expedia. 

    For Cashback fanatics

    Avail this exclusive offer

    You can get P110 bonus cashback when you sign up with this link below: 

    https://app.shopback.com/phl/partner/SBPH1111PR

    If you are an existing user – go to EARN MORE, click code, and input SB11PR to get an extra P50 cashback when you purchase at least P500.

    So what are you all waiting for, shop now!

  • Planning for Your Next Trip Abroad? Go Cashless and Travel Worry-Free with GCash Global Pay

    Everybody has their travel bucket lists – whether that’s exploring the world’s most popular sites, experiencing heart-pounding extreme adventure sports, immersing in rich cultural sites, or simply savoring the wonders of nature. But the question that lingers with these goals is how to achieve them without breaking the bank.

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    Thankfully, GCash now offers Global Pay, an excellent solution that lets you go cashless and helps you get the most out of your international trips without overspending. 

    Pay with GCash around the world with GCash Global Pay

    Building on the successful Pay via QR launch in Japan in 2021 in collaboration with Alipay+, GCash, the country’s leading finance super app, unveiled GCash Global Pay in early 2023 at its Futurecast event, expanding its availability in several new markets, including South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and exciting European destinations like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. 

    According to Paul Albano, VP General Manager for GCash International,”With the holidays approaching, we’re anticipating many Filipino travelers will soon be planning their vacations with their family and friends. With GCash Global Pay, we aim to make the travel experiences for Filipinos more enjoyable and stress-free. We’re excited to continue our partnership with Alipay+ and expand the capabilities of GCash to more destinations in Asia and beyond.”

    GCash Global Pay offers users a hassle-free and rewarding travel experience abroad through a seamless and secure payment experience across various merchants through Scan to Pay. It also eliminates the inconveniences of high exchange rates, carrying around too much cash in an unfamiliar currency, or withdrawing at ATMs with additional charges. 

    Some travelers also bring their credit cards with them on international trips, but there’s always a looming concern over surprise fees or bill shock when they get back. With GCash Global Pay, budget-conscious travelers gain better control over their finances and empower them to stay on top of their expenses throughout their trip with features like low forex and no service fees. 

    Additionally, GCash Global Pay opens the door to a broader network of international merchants who offer exclusive deals and promotions when using GCash to pay through its partnership with Alipay+. 

    How to claim voucher

    Whether you’re on your shopping spree at Japan’s Don Quijote and Mitsui Shopping Park, trying out local delights from 7-Eleven or Lawson, exploring local transportation, or buying  everyday essentials at various department stores, just look for the Alipay+ sign to know if you can use Global Pay with GCash. 

    To Scan to Pay with GCash abroad, simply look for the Alipay+ and GCash logo at the checkout counter. Open your GCash app, tap Pay Abroad with Alipay+ and let the merchant scan your unique QR or you can scan the merchant’s QR code.  Verify the amount and click “Pay” to receive your receipt.

    How to pay abroad

    This November, GCash will unveil a range of new features to enhance the GCash Global Pay experience for travelers, providing them with user-friendly access to real-time conversion rates to the local currency of their current location. The app will also display converted balances within their GCash wallets, ultimately helping users track their budget better.

    For all your upcoming travels, use GCash so that you enjoy smooth payments and get the most out of your trip all in just a few taps of your phone via the app. Learn more about GCash Global Pay www.new.gcash.com/services/pay-qr/global-pay.

  • Revolutionizing Travel Experiences Worldwide via Travereel – Book, Travel, Connect, and Earn!

    Today marks a remarkable occasion in the world of travel with the official launch of Travereel, a groundbreaking and revolutionary travel mobile application that promises to transform how people explore and experience the world. 

    Selcouth’s Travereel mobile app is set to change the way you plan and enjoy your travel experiences, providing a seamless, one-stop solution for all your travel needs.

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    This game-changing travel app lets you book your stay or destination seamlessly by just clicking and watching the reels shared by fellow travelers. Travel offers you an incredible variety of options, whether you wish to stay in a stylish metropolitan apartment, an opulent beach resort, or a cozy B&B in the countryside. “Travereel was born out of a passion for exploring the world and the belief that travel should be accessible, personalized, and unforgettable for everyone,” said Debbie Nebaya, Travereel CEO. “Our team has poured their hearts into creating this app, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to life and empower travelers to embark on journeys that leave a lasting imprint on their hearts.”

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    Enjoy a fun, engaging, reliable display of hotel properties through short vertical videos from our travel community, and imagine how your next day’s vacation will look like.

    Travereel is more than just a travel app; it’s your personalized travel concierge, offering a wide range of features to enhance your journeys. Here are some notable key features of the app:

    Discover Hidden Gems: Find off-the-beaten-path attractions, local eateries, and cultural experiences with our curated recommendations and user-generated content. Get a taste of authentic travel with Travereel.

    Travel Social Network: Connect with fellow travelers, share your experiences, and get real-time advice from the Travereel community. Discover travel buddies and create lasting memories through your own travel experiences.

    Seamless booking: Book your preferred hotel in just click and tap. Travereel gives you seamless booking experience by clicking the ‘Book’ button on the reel.

    Flexible payment terms: Payment convenience via different payment options from Paymonggo: Debit and Credit Card, GCash, Maya, and Billease. Users can also opt for the Buy Now, Pay Later payment terms.

    Earn Commission: Be a content creator and post your own travel experiences. Post videos and receive an affiliate commission for bookings from your shared travel reels and vlogs.

    Safety Features: Stay informed about travel advisories and emergency contact information, and receive safety tips to ensure your well-being while exploring new destinations.

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    Travereel is now available  for both iOS and Android, ensuring that no matter your device, you can experience the world at your fingertips. Our commitment to providing a user-friendly, accessible platform is at the heart of Travereel’s development.

    For more information, visit Traveleers’ website www.traveleer.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/TRAVEREEL2022), (Instagram.com/travereel.app), TikTok (TikTok.com/@travereel), and YouTube (YouTube.com/@Travereel).

  • Ghosts, Zombies, Energy Vampires, and Green-Eyed Monsters: Bumble unmasks dating monsters to help you date fearlessly this Halloween

    The spooky season is upon us, and while the ghosts and monsters might send shivers down your spine, there’s something even scarier lurking in the world of dating—investing your time in the wrong person! No doubt, nothing can be more terrifying than finding yourself with someone who might not be right for you.

    As we approach Halloween, it’s important to be aware of these common dating monsters – be it a Ghost that suddenly disappears without a trace, a Zombie that comes back from the dead and back into your life, an Energy Vampire who drains your emotions, or a Green-Eyed monster who displays unhealthy jealousy. Fear not, because Bumble, the women-first dating app, is here to help you navigate around these dating monsters and enrich your dating life.Bumble’s research on these dating monsters* sheds light on the Filipino dating experience and sentiments around dating scaries, allowing those looking for love to navigate the world of romance fearlessly. Here’s a rundown of these monsters, their tactics, and what you can do to escape them unscathed.

    Monster 1

    Ghosts: Masters of the Disappearing Act

    Ghosts have perfected the dreaded act of disappearing without a trace in someone’s life, leaving the other person utterly confused, bewildered, and hurt. According to the popular dating app, half (51%) of the Filipinos surveyed have experienced ghosting someone, and 49% of them indicated that they had the haunting experience of being ghosted. 

    Monster 2

    At Bumble, communication is key, and ghosting is no match for the platform’s commitment to respectful and healthy conversation. The dating app has rolled out new Community Guidelines that take action against no-shows, identifying this behaviour as bullying and abusive conduct. In fact, Bumble is the first dating platform to take a stance on members for this offense, ensuring a more respectful dating environment.  

    Zombies: The Return of the Past

    Zombies are people you thought have long been gone who suddenly reappear in your life, often causing confusion and mixed emotions. Bumble’s survey revealed that 1 in 5 Filipino singles surveyed have zombied someone before,with 19% stating that they did it because they had a change of heart. When further asked why they zombied someone, 34% reconnected with past acquaintances out of a genuine desire to revive connections, while 32% of them did so to avoid uncomfortable conversations, and 29% of those surveyed believed the timing was better for a second chance at the relationship. However, 38% of Filipino singles will not allow Zombies to come back into their lives, while 31% are willing to give a Zombie another chance. 

    Monster 3 Large

    Energy Vampires: The Emotional Drainers

    Energy Vampires are potential romantic interests or partners who drain your emotional energy by constantly needing your attention and care, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed. Bumble’s research indicates that 45% of Filipinos surveyed said that they have met an energy vampire in their lives while 21% of them have been energy vampires themselves. After dating an energy vampire, respondents are now prioritising qualities such as open communication (69%), kindness and empathy (60%), and accountability (55%), which are qualities crucial for maintaining a healthy and nurturing relationship.

    Monster 4 Large

    Green-Eyed Monsters: The Overly Jealous

    Green-Eyed Monsters are partners who are always jealous or envious of the other partner, often due to perceived threats or insecurities. The research found that in the experience of the people we surveyed, common triggers for jealousy include partners flirting with others (55%), maintaining contact with previous lovers (43%), and not receiving enough attention (40%). Interestingly, more than half of Filipinos (55%) communicate openly with their partners when they experience jealousy. This shows that while having feelings of jealousy is normal, couples will need to have open and honest communication when it comes to addressing these feelings to continue to foster trust and build healthy relationships. 

    Monster 5 Large
    Monster 6 Large

    Tips on How to Escape These Halloween Monsters

    To help Filipino singles deal with these dating monsters, Bumble shares some tips on how to escape them: 

    1. Take Your Time: Don’t rush into relationships. Take your time with figuring out what you want and get to know someone first before fully committing to them. Be intentional in looking for what you desire. Rushing into a relationship can make you more vulnerable to dating monsters.
    2. Communication is Key: Avoid dating monsters by establishing clear and consistent communication. If your match begins to ghost you, politely express your concerns and ask for clarity. Setting expectations for communication from the start can also help prevent ghosting. 
    3. Set Healthy Boundaries: To fend off these dating monsters, establish firm but healthy boundaries. If someone you’ve previously dated reappears and you’re not interested, kindly but firmly express your feelings and set boundaries to prevent them from returning. If your partner is draining your positivity or showing unreasonable jealousy, don’t be afraid to express your feelings and boundaries in a relationship. Honest communication is the foundation of a healthy partnership.
    4. Use Interest Badges and Profile Prompts: On Bumble, you can leverage Interest Badges to find like-minded individuals and use Profile Prompts to showcase your personality. This helps attract compatible matches and repel dating monsters who don’t align with your interests and values.
    5. Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right in a dating situation, trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to exit the situation. Your instincts can be a powerful tool in avoiding dating monsters and finding genuine connections.

    Lucille McCart, APAC Communications Director, said: “This spooky season, we want our community to enjoy the ultimate treat, which is fear-free dating. At Bumble, we believe that authentic connections are rooted in kindness and respect, and we want to create a space where everyone can be their true selves. While it is not likely that we can completely avoid these monsters in life, we can actively choose to pursue the connections that are kind, respectful and right for us. If you are struggling to move on from any of these monsters who may have entered your life, just proceed with the knowledge that they aren’t your best match, and there are lots of other people on Bumble who would love to get to know you!”

    *Figures from Bumble’s survey on Halloween Monsters, unless otherwise stated, are from Milieu Insight Pte Ltd commissioned by Bumble. The total sample size was 1,000 single Filipinos aged 18-42. Fieldwork was undertaken between 15 – 21 September 2023 across the Philippines. The survey was carried out online.

    About Bumble app:Bumble, the women-first social networking app, was founded by CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd in 2014. Bumble connects people across dating (Bumble Date), friendship (Bumble BFF), and professional networking (Bumble Bizz). No matter the type of relationship, women make the first move on Bumble. Bumble is built on the importance of equitable relationships and how crucial they are to a healthy, happy life. They’ve built their platform around kindness, respect, and equality – and their community plays an important part in that. Bumble holds its users accountable for their actions and has zero tolerance for hate, aggression, or bullying. Bumble is free to download and available worldwide in the App Store and Google Play.

     

  • Xiaomi 13T Series captures the beauty of Bacolod’s Masskara Festival

    Bacolod’s Masskara Festival is a celebration that Filipinos should experience at least once in their lifetime. The annual fiesta is known locally and internationally for its showcase of vibrant smiling masks, which gave Bacolod the moniker “City of Smiles.” 

    Photo 1 Aeson Baldevia
    Photo by Aeson Baldevia

    For this year’s Masskara Festival, Xiaomi gave fans and media guests an awesome experience to rediscover the vibrancy of Bacolod during its recent Xiaomi 13T Series Photowalk from October 20 to 22, 2023. Guests were encouraged to capture Masterpieces in Sight using the Xiaomi 13T Series.

    Kyle Sevilla
    Photo by Kyle Sevilla

    They were able to explore popular sites in Bacolod and got to watch the lively Street Dance Competition and Street Party happening during the festival. These were the ideal locations to take artistic shots and vlogs in full vibrance using the Xiaomi 13T, equipped with a 50MP rear camera that can shoot photos and videos for up to 2160p resolution. Its 20MP front camera is equally impressive as it captures high-definition photos and 1080p resolution videos.

    Photo 2 Hersely casero
    Photo by Hersley Casero

    Powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 8200 Ultra chipset and a 5000mAh battery, users can maximize the Xiaomi 13T’s pro-level camera features and browse apps smoothly wherever they go.

    Bacolod’s Masskara Festival left fond memories for everyone who experienced it over the weekend. Xiaomi fans and guests also have a lot of photos and videos to look back at from the immersive Xiaomi 13T Series photowalk.

    Shop for the Xiaomi 13T starting at Php 26,999 and Xiaomi 13T Pro starting at P37,999 via Xiaomi’s online stores on Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok Store and authorized Xiaomi stores.

    For more information, visit Xiaomi’s official Facebook page and Xiaomi’s official website.

  • Starbucks Philippines Enhances Loyalty Rewards, Offering More Ways to Earn Stars

    Since its inception in 2013, the Starbucks Rewards program has consistently focused on cherishing and rewarding their most devoted patrons. Starbucks Philippines takes customer appreciation to the next level by revamping its Rewards program journey: an easier sign-up process and a more flexible Star-earning mechanism. Now, it’s even easier to join and earn Stars no matter how you pay!

    Starbucks Rewards

    Effortless Sign-Up: One Email Away!

    Starbucks Rewards Join Now With Just Your Email

    Gone are the days of lengthy registration procedures. Now, all it takes to become a Starbucks Rewards member is a simple email sign-up. Whether through the Starbucks website or their user-friendly app, once registered, customers will instantly get a distinct 16-digit digital card. This virtual card is rechargeable at any time. Moreover, for those enamored with those captivating seasonal Starbucks Card designs, they can still obtain them in-store and link them effortlessly to their account later on.

    Earn Stars Your Way

    Starbucks Rewards Collect Stars Any Way You Pay

    In this new era of Starbucks Rewards, every member is a star! Whether you’re scanning your app at the counter or making a digital payment, every purchase earns you Stars. Here’s the gleaming breakdown:

    • Pay using cash, credit/debit cards, or even e-wallets in-store and collect one Star for every Php 50 spent.
    • Maintain the previous perks of receiving one Star for Php 25 spent via the Starbucks Card.
    • Earn one Star per Php 40 spent on GrabFood or Lazada when your account is linked.

    “We’re absolutely thrilled to introduce an easier online sign-up process, making our Starbucks Rewards program accessible to all, with Stars earned regardless of payment method,” said Jamie Silva, Senior Manager for Marketing, Digital Experience, and Loyalty. “Our loyal customers have always been the heart of Starbucks, and we are committed to enhancing their experience through this exciting innovation.”

    A Future-Forward App Experience

    Starbucks Rewards Stars for Everyone Tiering

    The Starbucks app is not just an application; it’s an essential part of the modern Starbucks journey. Lauded for its plethora of features – from locating stores to advance orders and facilitating touch-free payments – members can expect even more innovative payment and reward choices in the coming days.

    Discover More About Starbucks Rewards

    To delve deeper into the world of Starbucks Rewards and its myriad of offerings, head over to www.starbucks.ph/card. For the ultimate Starbucks Rewards journey, download the Starbucks app available for both iOS and Android platforms.

    Starbucks Philippines continues to innovate, keeping customer satisfaction and convenience at the forefront. This evolution of the Starbucks Rewards program is a testament to their commitment to continuously enhance the Starbucks Experience for all coffee lovers in the Philippines. So, why wait? Sign up, earn Stars, and enjoy the perks of being a Starbucks Rewards member today!

  • Power Mac Center Elevates the Game with Massive iPhone 15 Launch

    Power Mac Center (PMC) painted the town red with the electrifying debut of the iPhone 15 series at a midnight gala. It wasn’t just a launch; it was a grand celebration! Amplifying the festivity were games, OPM band performances, and starter kits worth a whopping P18 million, ensuring new iPhone 15 owners began their journey on a high.

    iPhone 15 x midnight launch at PMC APP GB3 7

    Apple’s Midnight Charm Across Five Venues

    The stars of the night? Apple Premium Partner stores sprinkled across Greenbelt 3, SM Mall of Asia, PMC Festival Mall Alabang, Eastwood Mall, and The Loop in Bonifacio High Street. But there’s more! Exclusive deals poured in from partner brands – Anessa, KMC Solutions, Ikea, Saddle Row, and Yardstick, for the lucky early birds.

    iPhone 15 x midnight launch at PMC APP GB3 11

    “Power Mac Center’s new iPhone midnight launch has become that special occasion we get to share with our most loyal customers. This year, we’re celebrating the arrival of iPhone 15 in five locations and in three more pocket events in the coming days. We’re excited to have onboard both new and existing partner brands that help us provide the premium Apple universe experience that customers keep coming back for,” said Joey Alvarez, PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management.

    Live Music and Midnight Glamour

    December Avenue’s melodies, Adie’s harmonies, and the high voltage rock by Lola Amour at Greenbelt 3 surely melted some hearts. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, the excitement soared to new heights. Gracing this starry event? The crème de la crème of the Philippines – renowned celebrities and influencers.

    And then, 12:01 struck on October 20th. The curtains were raised, ending the tantalizing wait, heralding the iPhone 15’s grand entry.

    iPhone 15 x midnight launch at PMC APP GB3 5 1

    Own the iPhone 15: Bank Offers Too Good to Miss

    PMC’s “iPhone for All” isn’t just a tagline; it’s a promise. Ensuring the iPhone isn’t just a dream but a reality, they’ve teamed up with premier banks. Massive deals and promos, from credit card discounts to gift certificates, are now up for grabs. Whether you’re with BDO, BPI, Citibank, UnionBank, or RCBC, there’s a deal waiting just for you.

    • BDO (October 20-22, 2023)
      • FREE P1,500 Power Mac Center Gift Certificate for every iPhone 15 installment purchase using your BDO Credit Card. 
    • BPI (October 12-31, 2023)
      • FREE P1,500 Power Mac Center Gift Certificate for every iPhone 15 installment purchase using your BPI Credit Card. 
    • Citibank (October 12-22, 2023)
      • Get 5% off for a minimum single-receipt PayLite spend of P50,000 for 24 months.
    • UnionBank (October 12-22, 2023)
      • Get 5% off for a minimum single-receipt 0% Installment spend of P50,000 for 24 months with your UnionBank Credit Card.
    • RCBC (October 20-December 31, 2023)
      • Get P1,000 worth of Power Mac Center Gift Certificates for a minimum spend of P30,000 using an RCBC Bankard at 12 and 24 months 0% installment and/or Buy Now, Pay Later.

    Immerse, Explore, Experience: The iPhone 15 Booths

    Robinsons Galleria Cebu, SM City Davao, and the Power Plant Mall in Makati City are hosting experiential booths from October 20 to 26. Take the iPhone 15 for a spin, discover its stellar features, and pick up some nifty tricks from PMC pros. To sweeten the deal, luxury brands will showcase accessories tailor-made for Apple aficionados. Don’t miss out on financial institutions providing special offers. So, ready to hop into these booths?

    iPhone 15 x midnight launch at PMC APP GB3 6

    The iPhone 15 series includes the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities, and in the colors Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, and Black; iPhone 15 Pro available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities; and iPhone 15 Pro Max available in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB capacities. Both iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max are available in Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium. Whether you’re eyeing the classic colors or the sophisticated titanium finishes, there’s something for everyone. Head over to Power Mac Center, The Loop stores, or online platforms like Lazada, Shopee, SM Malls Online, and the Viber Store. Get acquainted with the iPhone 15 further here: Power Mac Center iPhone 15 ROI.

    Tireless Teams Behind The Scenes

    Much applause to Power Mac Center’s partners like ADAM elements, Anker, Belkin, Cygnett, and PanzerGlass. Sponsors include LAUT, OtterBox, and QDOS, as well as AMAZINGTHING, Audio-Technica, AUKEY, Before Anything Else, Energea, InvisibleShield, iOttie, Jabra, JBL, and STM.

    For the latest buzz, stay tuned and follow Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, Viber, and YouTube.

  • Here are the top 10 holiday destinations Filipinos want to visit this year

    2023 will soon be over and everyone’s already looking forward to the holidays. Many have been raring to fly off somewhere to celebrate the end of the year, but there may be some who still need a little help planning and choosing where to go.

    What better way to figure out your year-end vacation destination than with the help of Google Flights? Whether you want to go where the people are or you want to know which spots to steer clear of in favor of the less-beaten path, Google Flights has the important data you need–namely, the top 10 places Filipinos have been searching for and booking trips to.

    Google Flights 2

    Here’s the list:

    Top 10 year-end destinations on Google Flights

    1. Tokyo, Japan
    2. Singapore
    3. Hong Kong
    4. Caticlan
    5. Osaka, Japan
    6. Bangkok, Thailand
    7. Seoul, South Korea
    8. Kalibo
    9. Taipei, Taiwan
    10. Cebu

    Once again, Japan tops the list of most-searched destinations, with travelers from the Philippines looking at choosing the country as their top choice. Within Japan, Tokyo leads the way, while Osaka takes the 5th spot. Looking at the list, it would suggest that on top of trips within the Philippines, most are thinking of traveling within Asian countries.

    Better, savvier traveling with Google

    Flights don’t come cheap, but if you want to save money this year-end season, or any time of the year, a little bit of planning can go a long way. Most of the time, it’s better to book early but flight prices can fluctuate, and often there are bargains to be found.

    On Google Flights, you can already see whether current prices for your destination are low, typical, or high compared to past averages for the same routes. It also takes it to the next level, having added a feature where it lets you know when it’s the cheapest time to book based on your chosen dates and destination.

    Google Flights 1

    Aside from Google Flights, there are other ways to get help with your travel planning. Here are a few more features you can use:

    ●        Bard: Google’s Bard AI is like talking to a virtual travel agent that’s personally helping you. You can ask it to help create an itinerary that’s uniquely yours, pulling data and info from all over the web. Just don’t forget to double-check things personally before you start booking.

    ●        Immersive Landmarks in Maps: If you’re going somewhere like Japan, you can learn more about the spots you’ll be visiting before you go. Search for a landmark like ‘Tokyo Tower’ in Google Maps, tap “immersive view” then get a sense of the surroundings, and use the handy slider to see when it will be raining or how crowded it is at different times of the day.

    ●        Google Lens: See something the locals are eating and want to find out more? You can snap a photo and use Lens in the Google app to search for it. Want to have a try? Multisearch can help – add ‘near me’ to your search and find nearby restaurants serving that dish.

    ●        My Ad Center: Here’s one you might not think of but buyers’ remorse is real. With airlines, hotels and credit card companies running promotions, avoid missing a deal by tuning your ad preferences. Choose to see more or fewer trending ad topics to surface relevant ads or for something specific, you can adjust your brand preferences.

    Now that you’ve got some inspiration, it’s not too late to make your travel plans. From Bard, to Flights and Maps, Google tools can help you on every step of the trip.