As portions of the country revert to stricter quarantine measures, Delivery riders can #ScanToPay for safer and more rewarding transactions with PayMaya

With stricter quarantine measures set to be imposed in parts of the country once again, many will be relying on delivery services for their everyday essential needs. To help ensure the safety of delivery riders, PayMaya is encouraging them to use contactless payments via PayMaya QR in partner merchants, which will also give them additional benefits and rewards as well.

By using PayMaya QR for their purchases, delivery riders are able to enjoy a safer payment experience which reduces the risk of transmitting the virus through cash handling - thereby adding a layer of protection for themselves and their customers.

Apart from the safety that PayMaya offers delivery riders, they are also rewarded each time they #ScanToPay for their customers' orders or when they fill up their tanks at partner establishments because they can get up to 100% cashback (maximum of P500), which can easily add to their savings and income.

“Since the start of the quarantine, riders have become our 'delivery heroes' – braving the frontlines and bringing daily essentials straight to our doorstep so we can stay safe at home. We’re honored to offer our contactless payment solutions to these essential service personnel so they can remain safe and even get rewarded as they fulfill their customers' transactions around the metro,” said Raymund Villanueva, Head of PayMaya QR Ecosystems

To make their payment experience even more rewarding, delivery riders also have a chance to score a brand new Honda ADV 150 motorcycle whenever they #ScanToPay via PayMaya QR. All they have to do is spend a minimum of P200 when they pay at any of PayMaya’s partner merchants until September 15, 2020 to earn raffle entries. The more they use PayMaya QR, the more chances they have of winning!

Scan to Pay for maximum safety and rewards

Paying via PayMaya QR has been made quick and simple for delivery riders. All they have to do is scan the PayMaya QR code displayed at the counter or at the One by PayMaya device in partner merchants, key in the amount they need to pay and hit confirm. With this payment method, there is no need to exchange cash or card at the counter, which also helps protect the service crew of partner merchants and establishments.

PayMaya QR is available at the biggest restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies and gasoline stations all over the country – including Jollibee, McDonald’s, KFC, Mang Inasal, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Goldilocks, Landers, Robinsons Supermarket, Rustans Supermaket, Shopwise, Super8, Mercury Drug, Watsons, Petron, and so much more. 

For riders who don’t have a PayMaya account yet, they can easily download and register for free and even receive perks for it. When they register using the promo code RIDER, they get a P50 reward, which they can receive after they upgrade and add money to their PayMaya account. 

Getting PayMaya for cashless transactions is real easy. Simply download the PayMaya app for Android or iOS (https://official.paymaya.com/CAK1/425eb133), register for an account, and start shopping safely and conveniently for anything online and in stores. Remember, for everything you need in your daily trips, don’t pay cash, PayMaya! 

To find out more about all the exclusive deals you can avail of with your PayMaya account, visit www.paymaya.com/deals or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

PayMaya is the only end-to-end digital payments ecosystem enabler in the Philippines with platforms and services that cut across consumers, merchants, and government. Aside from providing payments acceptance for the largest e-Commerce, food, retail and gas merchants in the Philippines, PayMaya enables national and social services agencies as well as local government units with digital payments and disbursement services. 

Through its app and wallet, PayMaya provides millions of Filipinos with the fastest way to own a financial account with over 40,000 Add Money touchpoints nationwide, more than double the total number of traditional bank branches in the Philippines combined. Its Smart Padala by PayMaya network of over 30,000 partner touchpoints nationwide serves as last mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing the unbanked and underserved with access to services. To know more about PayMaya's products and services, visit www.PayMaya.com or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB 102031, Series of 2020.

Santé, to provide job opportunities amid COVID-19

Philippines - Santé, one of the active global players in the direct selling and wellness industry, announced recently that it is looking to provide job opportunities for those whose livelihood is affected by the current global health crisis. 

Despite the pandemic, the company continues to receive a steady demand for its premier organic health and wellness products and services, Santé CEO Joey Marcelo noted. 

Known for its flagship product, Santé Barley, the company has developed a comprehensive selection of everyday barley-based products. They are made, specifically with organic barley grass, as certified by BioGro, New Zealand’s leading organic certification agency. 

“We’ve seen the change in the buying behavior of our customers. People are buying online and are also shifting their focus to preventive care. Since Santé’s products fall under the wellness category, we continue to receive a growing demand,” added Marcelo. 

In March, the demand for Santé’s Daily-C, a non-acidic Vitamin C, has increased by more than 1000 percent. 

This steady growth urged the company to strengthen its online presence. It also utilized technology to transform quickly and cater to the demands of the “new normal.” The move also aims to attract more distributors, called Santé Business Owners, to put up their own direct selling business. 

“We reacted fast, making sure that our online systems are working, from our customer services to online ordering systems. Most importantly, we made sure that the top management was visible. Virtual meetings were done daily with our teams and business owners,” Marcelo added. 

Present in 10 key cities worldwide, there are thousands of independent Santé business owners. Marcelo said, only half of them were active last year. “We are expecting more than 50 percent increase in the number of our business owners in the next couple of months,” he noted. 

Santé makes it even safer and easier for potential business owners to jumpstart their business. With Santé’s Engage system, its business owners are easily plugged into a series of leadership, product, and business training aimed to help equip and aid in their growth both as a person and as a businessman. 

Fastly adapting to the Covid-19 situation, Santé’s Engage webinars are all done online and are given for free.

Santé also developed a mobile app (IOS, Android), which helps its business owners to conveniently order products and have them shipped. They can also transact everything through the company’s website. 

“Our Business Owners are glad to have a business that is, in a way, pandemic-proof. The global health crisis may have minimized person-to-person interactions, but we have helped them to shift to online selling. They are now all back on track,” Marcelo said. “Santé will remain wide open for those who want to jumpstart their direct-selling business.” 

To learn more about Santé, visit its website at santebarley.com. 

Smart launches new Giga Study data pack for learning

As the world continues to deal with the pandemic, many schools have resorted to online classes as a safe and innovative way for students to continue learning new knowledge and skills.

  

To help students adapt to this new normal, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. has launched Giga Study, a prepaid data pack aimed at giving students simpler access to a selection of learning apps and productivity tools.

  

Register via *123# or the new Smart App

Available to all Smart Prepaid and TNT subscribers, Giga Study 99 comes with 1 GB of data for specific study apps every day for 7 days, plus 2 GB of open-access data for only P99. To register, simply dial *123# and choose Giga and select Study. Subscribers can also avail of the promo conveniently via the new Smart App.

  

Giga Study offers access to Google Suite, which includes Google Classroom, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Meet, and Drive. Learning via video is also an option with YouTube and YouTube Kids. The data pack also offers access to Microsoft 365, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Teams, and OneDrive. 

  

Giga Study adds to Smart and TNT's line of Giga offers, which are designed to cater to the various lifestyle needs and passions of customers. Recently, Smart also introduced Giga Work for those who need access to work and productivity apps.

Country’s fastest mobile data network

  

Smart and TNT subscribers can enjoy all these Giga offers powered by Smart LTE, the country’s fastest mobile network, as certified by third-party mobile analytics firms such as Ookla and Opensignal.

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, recently named Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network in the first half of 2020 after it achieved a Speed Score™ of 18.33, with average speeds of 15.94 Mbps for download, and 7.57 Mbps for upload, based on 2,810,963 user-initiated tests taken with Speedtest®.

On the other hand, Opensignal, an independent mobile analytics firm, reported in its April 2020 Mobile Network Experience Report for the Philippines that Smart remained ahead of the competition in terms of Video Experience, Upload and Download Speed Experience, Voice App Experience, Games Experience, and 4G Availability.

For more details on Smart’s products and services, follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook at www.fb.com/SmartCommunications and Twitter and Instagram at @LiveSmart.

foodpanda, Globe Business help riders go the extra mile with new KaPanda plan

foodpanda - the leading global online food delivery platform that operates in more than 40 countries and partner to over 1,000 restaurants nationwide—collaborated with Globe Business to come up with a solution to aid KaPanda riders in connecting to the brand’s delivery app, communicating with customers, and boosting their daily operations.

The partnership introduced the special postpaid line, KaPanda Plan 500 which provides foodpanda riders access to unlimited calls and texts to all networks and sizable data allocation. The plan lets them access Roadrunner, the foodpanda delivery app⁠ used to receive customer requests; pandariders, the company’s website; Facebook community and Telegram channels for fleet updates; and Waze for easier GPS navigation.

(Left to Right) foodpanda rider and Bearbro vlogger, Jemar Villocillo and foodpanda Community & Communications Manager, Jao Manahan

“Food delivery riders have displayed true heroism throughout the pandemic. Amid the risks, our KaPanda riders have relentlessly worked hard to provide communities with safe and convenient access to food, while ensuring their own families are taken care of,” shared Jao Manahan, foodpanda Community & Communications Manager. “We wanted to ease their burdens by providing them with affordable customized postpaid plans that allow them to easily communicate and connect. We’re grateful for Globe’s commitment to helping us serve our fleet.”

Jemar Villocillo, who’s been working with foodpanda as a loyal KaPanda food rider for almost two years, shared his excitement over the new special postpaid plan: “Malaki ang maitutulong ng KaPanda Plan sa aming mga delivery riders. Kaysa sa magpa-load kami bawat buwan para maka-connect sa mga customers, mas pinadali at ginawang abot kaya ng foodpanda at Globe ang magkaroon ng Postpaid lines. Gamit ang KaPanda Plan, maari na kaming makatawag at gumamit ng data nang hindi nag-aalala ukol sa load.”

The enterprise arm of Globe Telecom strives to bridge the gap between businesses and customers through the proliferation of digitalization in the country.  “Teaming up with companies such as foodpanda always brings us back to what matters⁠—empowering people,” explained Raymond Policarpio, Globe Business Vice President for Product Management and Marketing. “Similar to their mission of changing the way people see and experience food delivery, we seek to transform the experiences of our clients through our growing portfolio of digital solutions and services. We hope that with our products and partnerships, we’ll be able to help businesses scale, propel their digital transformation, and create a positive effect on the lives of people.”

In addition to its customized postpaid plans, Globe Business also offers large corporations a wide selection of ICT solutions—ranging from the Cloud, cybersecurity, voice, business applications, managed services, to connectivity. The telco giant believes that as more companies digitally transform their operations, communications, and security, more Filipinos will be able to benefit from the possibilities brought about by technology.

Streamline your operations with solutions that allow you and your team to communicate and connect with ease. Consult with your dedicated Globe Business Account Manager to find out how you can customize Postpaid Plans suited to your needs. Check out our website to learn more!

Say hello to RIA, Red Ribbon’s smart and friendly Messenger-based ordering service crew

As families mark special moments from the comfort of their homes these days—birthdays, anniversaries, graduations—one thing remains constant: a Red Ribbon cake or pastry! 

Knowing how much these celebrations mean the world to everyone, and in their desire to fulfill their commitment towards customer safety and satisfaction, Red Ribbon proudly introduces RIA –the brand’s smart and friendly online service crew who will assist customers in ordering their favorite Red Ribbon cakes and pastries via Facebook Messenger.

“At Red Ribbon, we are constantly seeking ways for our customers to conveniently and safely enjoy our products especially during these times,” says Red Ribbon Marketing Head Kent Mariano. “In introducing RIA, we immediately thought of making her available on Messenger, which is widely-used and easy to access. What’s more, our customers can chat with RIA wherever they may be through their mobile device.”

So, who is RIA, you may ask? RIA is a contemporary and young take on a popular Filipina name, “Maria.” She is sweet – caring, thoughtful, genuine; vibrant – charming and light-hearted; and not to mention smart – highly knowledgeable and intuitive when it comes to customer’s needs. As your friendly online crew, when you interact with RIA, you can expect a respectful, concise, sweet and easy to understand response that makes ordering a thoroughly pleasant and enjoyable experience.

And when you think of RIA, who should she remind you of in real life?

None other than popular television host, social media maven and advocate Bianca Gonzalez-Intal. Everyone knows Bianca as intelligent and no-nonsense, a caring mother, and a devoted wife—who better then to serve as the inspiration behind RIA?

Now, how does one order through RIA? It’s mobile-friendly and easy as 1-2-3, just take note of these simple steps:

1. Go to Messenger and search Red Ribbon Bakeshop. 

2. Type "order" or click "Order Now" then choose how you would like to receive your order. 

3. Choose your product from the menu, and then proceed to checkout.

Watch Bianca Gonzalez-Intal herself in a how-to video that introduces RIA and the simple and easy to follow steps to order via Messenger here.

Customers are given the option to choose how they’d like to receive their order, whether it’s through Red Ribbon Delivery, Self-Pick-up, or Pick-up thru Grab. You can pay with cash or select among the available cashless payment options such as credit card including Visa, Mastercard and JCB, Paymaya, or Happy Plus (the last payment mode is for self pick-up orders only).

Through RIA, customers can order bestsellers such as Black Forest, Chocolate Dedication Cake, Rainbow Dedication Cake and Triple Chocolate Roll and favorites such as Mocha Dedication Cake, Cheesy Ensaimada, Butter Mamon, and Moist Choco Slice plus many more! One can also specify their personal message on their dedication cake order and add extra candles or fun theme toppers!

So, the next time you and your family have something special to celebrate at home, or if you’re simply craving for your Red Ribbon favorites, chat with RIA on Messenger now and have these delivered to your home safely and conveniently or picked up from your favorite Red Ribbon store. 

Take it from Bianca who knows that life is sweeter with a little bit of help from #RIAofRedRibbon!

The world of 5G is within your reach with Globe’s 5G-ready sims

As more Filipinos embrace fully the fast-paced digital life, Globe continues to introduce breakthrough innovations to impact the lives of its customers 

In 2019, Globe was the first to launch 5G for broadband in South East Asia. This also positioned the Philippines as the third country in Asia to offer 5G connectivity, after South Korea and Japan. With broadband Airfiber, Globe at Home customers stay connected with the world right at home, with lightning-fast internet connection. In February 2020, Globe unveiled the first 5G service for mobile and introduced the first 5G device in the country, followed by more affordable 5G-capable smartphones.

Globe is yet again making another stride to make 5G more accessible to Filipinos by making its current LTE SIM cards future-proof to automatically work with 5G and receive 5G signal. Globe and TM customers won’t have to pay any additional fees or go to a Globe Store and change their SIM cards to enjoy lightning-fast connections.

To make the most of this cutting-edge and highly-anticipated technology, subscribers must upgrade to a 5G capable device. Globe is offering a suite of 5G-ready devices bundled with a postpaid plan at different price points, so everyone can enjoy the benefits of this upgraded connection.

Customers can experience the future of mobile technology in select locations. Now, faster and more reliable speeds can be enjoyed in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Valero Street in Makati, Rockwell Center, and Gen. Malvar in Ortigas. It will then be progressively rolled out to more areas in the country and to Prepaid customers.

5G is the next generation of wireless internet connectivity. With the technology, users can stream movies and TV shows with fewer lags, play immersive online games at the highest-quality, and provide the clearest resolution for video chats.

The new 5G SIMs will replace the LTE SIMs that are available across all Globe stores, the online shop, and official dealers and resellers. 

For more information, visit the website at https://www.globe.com.ph/5g.

Maxicare gives free COVID-19 testing for thousands of members

To provide continuity of care and to ensure their members’ safety and well-being, Maxicare successfully recently hosted a 4-day free SARS COV2 Antibody Testing activities for 4,061 Maxicare members. 

With a simple and convenient process, members simply had to register and fill out a risk assessment form online. This was a quick and easy screening process that determined their risk category. Instructions were then given based on their respective categories. 

The initiative was met with much appreciation and gratitude from members and their families, both during the event and after. “Maxicare was very efficient. You will get a 1-hour window to show up and take the test in a large, events-purposed building in Bridgetowne, Quezon City. There were testing stations with proper queuing, social-distancing etc. The whole process took only about 30 mins,” Attorney Butch Dado narrated of his experience. 

Benjunar Barcoma, a sales engineer from Rohde & Shwarz (Philippines) Inc., was grateful for the peace of mind it afforded him. Another member, Dr. Kenneth Y. Hartigan-Go, an Associate Professor and Head of the Stephen Zuellig School of Development Management at the Asian Institute of Management, commended Maxicare’s integration of science and heart in this time of uncertainty. “It was a well-organized COVID-19 testing one Sunday morning, offering myself peace of mind.” 

Aside from the free tests, Maxicare continues to cover members infected with COVID-19. A total of 631 cases were confirmed, and 592 already recovered as of July 11, 2020. Amidst the lockdown, Maxicare clinics remained open, while strictly adhering to appropriate health protocols. Maxicare members who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and other health concerns are encouraged to call in through the 24/7 TeleConsult service to verify with licensed physicians whether or not they need to head to the hospital to avoid unnecessary exposure.

During these uncertain times, a sense of shared responsibility has seen the country coming together, while staying apart. The free test is “consistent with Maxicare’s mission of helping people achieve peace of mind through quality healthcare so they may live their best lives,” added Christian Argos, Maxicare President & CEO. 

Catch the Shopee 8.8 Play & Win TV Special on Wowowin and Win a Total of ₱1.2 Million Worth of Prizes

Tune in on August 8 and stand a chance to be one of the lucky winners. 

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, is inviting everyone to tune in to Wowowin on August 8 to stand a chance to win a total of ₱1.2 million worth of prizes. From 5:30 PM to 6:10 PM, the audience can anticipate fun games, non-stop prizes and giveaways, 8-peso deals, and up to 90% off on leading brands. 

Joining Wowowin’s main host Willie Revillame are Kapuso stars Sanya Lopez and Andrea Torres as co-host and performer. 

Key highlights of Shopee 8.8 Fashion Sale: 

On August 8, viewers can look forward to fun Shopee games, low-priced deals, and big cash prizes. Key highlights include: 

● Shopee Shake: One player can win ₱300,000 on Shopee Shake. They should tune in to Wowowin at 5:45 PM for a chance to play and win. 

● Watch & Win: Four viewers can each win ₱80,000 cash prize plus ₱10,000 worth of groceries. To join, users should pre-register on the Watch & Win microsite and tune in to Wowowin. Registration is from August 1, 12 midnight to August 8, 12 noon.

● Shopee Catch: One viewer can win ₱500,000 cash on Shopee Catch. Viewers have to catch items with a box or a bag, and the player with the most items is the winner. 

● ₱8 deals: On August 8, viewers can score ₱8-deals such as an eco-friendly t-shirt, a Nintendo Switch Labo, and a Platinum KS-10 Plus Junior 2 Karaoke Player. 

● Exclusive promos from leading brands: Users can also enjoy exclusive offers and discounts of up to 30% off on leading brands such as Silver Kingdom, Hanford, Maybelline, Primer Group, Penshoppe, and iTrends. Shoppers can also avail of fantastic deals on jewelry, electronics, and eyewear on Shopee’s TV Special on Wowowin.

To find out more about the Shopee 8.8 Fashion Sale, head over to https://shopee.ph/m/double-double. 

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

With BDO Foundation and Go Negosyo, Makati pooled PCR testing this month

Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship and Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion announces that the city of Makati led by Mayor Abigail Binay will pilot the Go Negosyo’s pooled PCR testing this month. ARK PCR Chief Private Implementor Cong. Janette Garin, Tessie Sy-Coson, Chairwoman of BDO Unibank, Philippine Children’s Medical Center’s Dr. Julius Lecciones, and Dr. Raymond Lo were also present during the virtual MOA signing.

“The private sector will fund a pooled PCR testing pilot for 16 cities and one municipality in NCR this month. That represents about P160,000 pooled PCR tests that will be done for this part of the research. This will be a game-changer for our country. It could speed up testing, increase the capacity, and make it cheaper. Testing will create greater visibility,” said Concepcion.

Concepcion also highlighted the significance of the partnership between the private sector and the local government units in winning the war against COVID-19 and thanked both BDO and Makati for their participation.

“We are making the best out of this two-weeks. The challenge is how to co-exist with COVID-19. The objective is to save lives, jobs, and livelihoods. I’d like to thank Tessie for her untiring support. They have been supportive of every effort that is needed to help the health situation which is needed to help the economy. We cannot have a vibrant economy if we cannot control the health situation.”

“I’d like to thank PCE Go Negosyo, PSP, BDO Foundation, and PCMC. It is an honor that you chose Makati to do pooled testing. We are very honored to pilot pooled testing. Until we are able to get a vaccine, we will have to live with the virus,” Mayor Abby Binay said. 

“Pooled testing will be helpful not just to our constituents but also to our business community who are unable to afford the P3500 PCR test. Hopefully, this will encourage our companies to open up, our employees will be assured that they are not spreading the virus as well. Hopefully eto na po ang sagot na hinihintay nating lahat so we can all move forward, living with COVID.”

As the country’s business capital, Makati is one of the cities in NCR to pilot Go Negosyo’s pooled PCR testing for 10,000 individuals. The pilot will focus on public market vendors as well as tricycle, jeepney, and pedicab drivers, in addition to a community near Makati Coliseum. The city also pledges to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through massive targeted testing. The data and results that will be gathered during the tests will then be used as a guide in policy-making, program formulation in line with the LGU’s COVID-19 response.

One of the staunch supporters of Go Negosyo programs and big brother BDO Foundation led by Tessie Sy-Coson expressed her belief in the pooled testing program, “We always believe in this pooled testing program which is initiated by Go Negosyo under Joey Concepcion and Cong. Janette Garin. As a matter of fact, Nestor and I have been talking about it. When we learn that Mayor Abby Binay is going to start this program, we were excited to involve BDO to work along in this worthy program and I’m happy to know that we will be working together.”

“It’s very difficult to be in a pandemic. But what inspires everybody, especially the health workers, is that when the private sector and government come together… Pooled testing does not only deal with a drastically reduced price, but it also deals with protecting our healthcare workers, hastening the turn around time and making our laboratories the windows that can open and guide us where these viruses are. Go Negosyo and the partnership with BDO has made possible for us the circle with the entry of the city of Makati,” said Garin.

She also added that the desire of the city of Makati, BDO Foundation and Go Negosyo is not only to make testing affordable, “Basically it boils down to how we can put back confidence in the workplaces. We look forward that the outcome of this pilot implementation of pooled testing will be the replica that will be cascaded to all other LGUs where government, private sector, and LGU will become enlightened in crushing COVID and allowing us to co-exist with it.”

Pooled PCR testing is expected to optimize the availability of test kits, reduce the workload of laboratory staff, eliminates large groups of negative cases, makes PCR testing more affordable and available, provides LGUs and businesses with a better and clearer direction, and restores confidence in returning to work while sustaining the gains of the initial lockdown.

Garin explained that a proposed costing mechanism has already been developed which will bring down the cost of testing to PHP450 per person in pools of 5s; PHP350 per person in pools of 10s, and PHP250 per person in pools of 20s, inclusive of PHP150 swabbing fee with VTM. If the study is approved by the Department of Health, pooled testing can be piloted in 21 implementation sites namely 11 Go Negosyo supported laboratories and 5 each from San Miguel Foundation and Ayala Foundation.   

“I’m glad that we will be able to sign this MOA today. This will pave the way and accelerate all the things that we were talking about. The real challenge is how to put that into action. Today we will be doing that. Tomorrow and the next days to come, we commit to ourselves to show to everyone that this is the way to go. Our commitment and our dedication to this enterprise is something …. [that] you can be proud of,” Dr. Lecciones shared.

Dr. Lo, who is leading the PCMC COVID-19 Laboratory, also shared, “Our research is proceeding as we speak. Now, we’re beginning to test them with the pooling method. Initially, we will be testing them individually to establish a baseline and then we will do pooling so we can see… which pools of 5, 10, or 20 [is most effective]. That will be a function of the prevalence of the virus. We are going to be testing asymptomatic. We don't expect that many [asymptomatics] in the community but we do hope to catch them before they can spread the virus.”

Lo added that the first phase of the research shows promise for pools of 5 and 10 and that the second phase is ongoing. The second phase will focus on cascading further protocols that other labs, especially those under the Go Negosyo mantle, can adapt.

ARK Project Lead Josephine Romero,  Philippine Society of Pathologists, Inc. President Dr. Roberto Padua Jr., President, and CEO of BDO Unibank and trustee of BDO Foundation, Nestor V. Tan, BDO Foundation President Mario Deriquito were among the attendees.

Robinsons Bank rolls out new digital solution with its cardless ATM withdrawal for SAP beneficiaries

Robinsons Bank (RBANK) has rolled out a new digital solution that will provide ease and convenience for the thousands of Filipinos that are awaiting their financial aid from the government. 

In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), RBANK successfully started the digital disbursement of the Social Amelioration Program (SAP) subsidy in Laurel, Batangas. 

With RBANK’s new digital solution, beneficiaries were able to receive their SAP payouts through a cardless withdrawal process using RBANK ATMs instead of going through manual disbursement and risk exposure to the Covid virus. 

“We, at Robinsons Bank, were eager to partner with DSWD for this initiative. We believe that our efforts have always had the bigger purpose of uplifting the lives of our fellow Filipinos -- in line with our advocacy of financial inclusion. With this process, we also provided them with a bank account. We know that with our digital banking solutions, we can, and we want to do our part in helping our kababayan during these hard times,” RBANK Retail Banking Segment Head Salvador "Buddy" Paps shared.

After the success of the initial distribution, RBANK is set to roll out the cardless withdrawal of the SAP payout for the second batch of beneficiaries in Laurel, Batangas, and to more places in the NCR and Albay in the coming weeks. 

According to Mr. Paps, RBANK went through a lot of preparation to ensure that the service will be easy even for those unfamiliar with transacting via the ATM. 

Shifting to digital disbursement

Committed to providing ease and convenience in all its services, RBANK has also trained DSWD representatives so they can readily assist the beneficiaries in completing their cardless withdrawal process. This ensured that the payout will move swiftly and avoid instances that can hold back the queue.

“Sobrang dali lang po ng pagkuha ng subsidy kumpara sa ibang transaction. Kinailangan lang mag-reply sa text at sundin ang instructions. Wala akong naging problema, sobrang bilis ng processing. Maraming salamat po sa Robinsons Bank kasi mas pinadali niyo ang pagkuha ng SAP subsidy,” one of the beneficiaries expressed (identity withheld for safety). 

Furthermore, another beneficiary was also very happy with the outcome of the distribution, “Sobrang dali lang po. Wala pang isang minuto nakapagwithdraw na ako. Walang hassle.” 

The shift to a digitalized disbursement through RBank's E-Ayuda aims to speed up the distribution process to the beneficiaries. With E-Ayuda, RBank was able to provide the beneficiaries with a bank account that could store the government's cash assistance, making the withdrawal process easier. They can also choose to upgrade their accounts to a Simple Savings account, to widen the banking features that they can enjoy.

Securing a safe payout

As hundreds of beneficiaries were expected to flock the Municipal Hall of Laurel, DSWD and the LGU assisted in managing the crowd for a smooth flow from registration to payout . The presence of the local police helped in maintaining security and order in the premises. The SAP beneficiaries waited comfortably in the municipal gym while they underwent initial screening to ensure a faster process with their withdrawal. 

Additionally, in keeping with health and safety protocols, beneficiaries were ushered to the pay-out location in batches.

Through digital innovation and RBANK's coordination with the LGU and DSWD, the SAP payout in Laurel, Batangas proved to be a success.

RBank, with the help of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Legazpi Savings Bank (LSB) has also begun the distribution of the SAP payout in different municipalities in Albay. According to LSB President Mykel D. Abad, being tapped as a partner of DSWD is a “great opportunity as LSB has always aspired to be of help to those in need.”

Recognized as the Fastest Growing Commercial Bank in the Philippines for 2020, Robinsons Bank is the financial services arm of the JG Summit Group of Companies, one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines. It currently ranks 18th among universal and commercial banks in the country, with assets amounting to Php 131.088 Bn as of December 2019.

For inquiries and concerns, you may reach Robinsons Bank through its Customer Care Center at (02) 8637-CARE (2273) or domestic toll-free 1-800-10-637-CARE (2273); or visit its website at www.robinsonsbank.com.ph. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/robinsonsbank. 

Stay updated and join RBank’s Viber Community at https://bit.ly/RBankCommunity to know the latest announcements.

Globe keeps customers safe through use of digital channels: Shifts to electronic billing until Dec 31

With the shift to Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine, messengerial delivery services will once again be limited. Despite this, Globe assures its customers that they will continue to receive their updated monthly billing statements, this time through digital channels. This way, Globe can keep customers and even messengers safe, preventing risks of COVID-19 infection caused by person-to-person or surface transmission.

“We understand the need of our customers for updated billing information and we strive to serve them as best as we can. In view of the challenges that we are all facing, we deemed it necessary to shift to electronic billing for the health and safety of our customers. This will also ensure the on-time delivery of their monthly billing statements while messengerial services are hampered by the current situation,” said Rizza Maniego-Eala, Globe Chief Finance Officer. 

All Globe postpaid customers, including business and enterprise clients, will be automatically shifted to paperless billing and will be notified of their monthly bill via text and/or their registered email address. This is in compliance with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) guidelines on electronic billing.

For customers to get their up-to-date billing statement, Globe is encouraging customers to download and install the GlobeOne app (for mobile and broadband) and Globe At Home app (for broadband only) from Google Play or App Store or through their computer browser - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ph.com.globe.one&hl=en . 

Customers are requested to update their email address and other contact details using the same apps. "We really need to work together so that the impact of these changes will be minimal. We are making this appeal so we can reach all our customers and provide billing services in a timely manner," said Eala.

Globe Business and Globe myBusiness clients may update their contact details through their Account Managers. Globe myBusiness customers may also use the GlobeOne app.

To know more about the apps, Globe customers may visit: GlobeOne - https://www.globe.com.ph/apps-content/globeone.html#gref and/or Globe At Home - https://www.globe.com.ph/apps-content/globe-at-home.html#gref

Up to 40% Off on XTREME Appliances this Grandest 8.8 Online Sale Events!

Manila, Philippines - Get lucky this 8.8 as XTREME Appliances joins both massive online sale events on LAZADA and Shopee. Avail up to 40% discount on us from August 6-8, 2020 (Thursday - Saturday).

LAZADA Brand Mega Offer (August 8 | 12 AM - 2 AM)

The two of our top-selling and high definition XTREME TVs will be part of the Brand Mega Offer Sale. Perfect for family entertainment and informational use, the XTREME V Series Smart TV has music features and has Netflix and Youtube capabilities. On the other hand, the Classic LED TV has good picture quality with USB, HDMI, and VGA available ports. 

The Brand Mega Offer is scheduled from 12 AM - 2 AM.

SMART TV

● 40-inch XTREME V Series 11,995 10,995 PHP

LED TV

● 40-inch XTREME LED TV 10,495 9,995 PHP

LAZADA Bounce Back Sale (August 6 - 8)

Upgrade your music experience with 6 of XTREME speakers that features superior sound quality and classic retro design. Our amplifiers with speaker sets have Bluetooth, FM radio, USB, and LED display features that come with remote control. 

For your new normal kitchen needs, the XTREME gas range with 4 burners will be perfect in all types of cooking. Also part of the sale is our sophisticated XTREME Bottom Load Water Dispenser that keeps you cool and hydrated this humid season.

Speakers 

● SN-800 XTREME Amplified Speaker 7,194 5,495 PHP

● SG-10 XTREME Amplified Speaker 8,394 5,995 PHP

● AV-15SN XTREME Amplified Speaker 19,194 13,995 PHP

● AV-12SG XTREME Amplified Speaker 14,994 11,995 PHP

● XCS-850 XTREME Amplified Speaker Set 7,740 5,450 PHP

● XCS-800 XTREME Amplifier Speaker Set 6,450 3,995 PHP

Gas Range

● 60 cm XTREME Gas Range 17,995 14,995 PHP

Water Dispenser

● XTREME Bottom load water dispenser 7,495 6,995 PHP

LAZADA Free Shipping

Catch the limited free shipping on the following XTREME Appliances:

XTREME TV

● XTREME LED TV 

● XTREME “V” Series SMART TV

XTREME Speakers

● AV-12SG XTREME Amplified Speaker

● AV-15SN XTREME Amplified Speaker

● SG-10 XTREME Amplified Speaker

● SN-800 XTREME Amplified Speaker

● XCS-800 Amplifier w/ Speaker Set

● XCS-850 Amplifier w/ Speaker Set

XTREME Gas Range

● 60 cm Gas Range

XTREME Water Dispenser

● Bottom load water dispenser

SHOPEE 8.8 MEGA DEALS

But wait, there’s more! XTREME Appliances is also participating in the Shopee’s 8.8 Mega Deal from August 6-8, 2020. The items included with price markdown are the following:

XTREME Water Dispenser

● XTREME Top Load Water Dispenser 4,495 3,995 PHP

XTREME Speaker

● XTREME Amplifier with speaker set 4,450 3,995 PHP

● 200Wx2 Amplified Speaker 4,495 3,995 PHP

For more information please visit XTREME Appliances Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. For the full list of products, please visit XTREME Lazada and Shopee.