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June 8, 2024

Alex Bruce returns with another inescapable jam that best describes the feeling of laid-back summer afternoons and beach vibes.

The Filipina recording star channels her idyllic youthful phase in the new single “SUMFLING,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

With suave vocals coasting through laid-back R&B beats and reggae-infused production, “SUMFLING” showcases another side of Bruce: warm and chill on the inside, but effortlessly catching our attention with her distinct brand of charm.

According to Bruce, “SUMFLING” allowed her to experiment with a variety of genres and confront her fears of going against the current.

“It was my decision to embrace that shift in sound and vibe,” Alex Bruce shares. “I’ve always wanted to explore new musical landscapes for every project that I work on, and I’m glad that in SUMFLING, I get to bring a fresh, laid-back energy to my music. It sounds chill but danceable at the same time. It was a refreshing change that challenged me as an artist.”

“SUMFLING is an expression that I made up by combining the words summer and fling,” recalls the 17-year-old hip-hop sensation. “I was in Australia when I wrote this track. Life was very peaceful there, and somehow it inspired me to go on a writing spree.”

The tropical track revisits a memorable romantic encounter with someone during a holiday break.

Its release comes with a music video directed by David Olson. The MV follows Alex Bruce and her friends on a trip to La Union while enjoying nature hangouts, surfing sessions, and summertime conversations.

The visual narrative also shows Bruce meeting a random person on a bonfire, with the two romantically hitting it off for a few days straight and getting confused with their feelings for each other.

Bruce reveals, “We wanted the music video to reflect the overall vibe of the song. Summer is supposed to be about being outdoors, having fun, and feeling great about yourself, and this song perfectly captures that. I’m also happy that I’ve worked with my friends syd, Aira, Violet, and Thomas for the MV shoot. This will always have a special place in my heart.”

Alex Bruce’s “SUMFLING” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. The music video is out on Friday, June 7, 2024, at 6 p.m. Watch it here.

Bag of Dreams: The joy of getting brand new school supplies as a kid

Remember the excitement of getting brand new school supplies as a kid? The thrill of unwrapping fresh notebooks, sharpening new pencils, and organizing colorful crayons in your backpack? Sadly, not every child gets to experience this joy.


In the quiet town of Guinayangan in Quezon Province, the start of a new school year is a bittersweet time for many children. While some students eagerly unpack their new school supplies, many others can only watch from afar. The children of coconut farmers, who often face significant economic challenges, know this reality all too well.

For families who rely on coconut farming as their primary source of income, purchasing new school supplies is often a luxury they cannot afford. The cost of living and farming expenses leaves little room for extras, making it difficult for parents to prioritize their children's educational needs.

Recognizing this need, a community initiative has been launched to bring joy and hope to these young learners. The program aims to provide backpacks filled with essential school supplies to the children of Guinayangan’s coconut farmers. Each backpack, carefully packed with 10 notebooks, pens, crayons, and other necessities, represents more than just stationery—it symbolizes the promise of a brighter future

The impact of this initiative goes beyond the physical items. It is about showing these children that they are seen, valued, and supported in their educational journey. By providing them with the tools they need, we are helping to foster an environment where they can dream big and strive for success.

For more information on how you can support this initiative and bring a bag of dreams to a child in need, please reach out to Beejay Castillo at beejayacastillo@gmail.com.

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Bag of Dreams is a community initiative dedicated to equipping underprivileged children with essential school supplies, empowering them to achieve their dreams, one school year at a time.

For more information, contact Beejay A. Castillo at beejayacastillo@gmail.com or through his Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beejay.castillo

A Creative Designer's guide to nightography feat. vivo V30 Series

Living in the modern world often involves creating and preserving memories of your day using smartphones. This includes taking photos, particularly at night. Night shots provide a therapeutic experience for those passionate about mobile photography.

City lights and heartwarming nighttime views bring a sense of delight to many individuals, including Gab Mirandilla.

Gab is currently a Creative Designer. In addition to his professional work that involves photography, he also enjoys capturing breathtaking views during the nighttime.

A representative from vivo asked Gab for tips on how to take the best night photos using a mobile phone. Thankfully, vivo released the Aura Portrait Master 3.0 with the vivo V30e as the latest phone in the lineup.

The vivo V30 Pro co-engineered with ZEISS, V30, and V30e are all equipped with powerful cameras that can capture the beauty of the night.




Tips to achieve the best night shots from Gab Mirandilla

Gab listed six (6) simple tips to follow when taking photos during the nighttime. Outdoor photography may seem complicated, especially during the night, but these tips can help you with creative nightography outputs:

  1. Keep your phone camera lens clean.

It’s important to keep your lenses clean and free from moisture to achieve vivid shots. Whether you are using your vivo V30 Pro, V30, or V30e, you can get clear night shots as long as they are free from dirt. Clean your lenses from unnecessary dirt and particles by using a microfiber cloth, so they won’t be harmed by scratches.

  1. Enable gridlines to improve composition.

Make sure to turn on the grid lines to help you take photos proportionally. The grids can help align your subjects to get balanced shots, especially during the night. To turn the grid using the vivo V30 5G, when you open your camera, you can check the upper right corner of your phone. Then you can see the Grid lines # in the third row. Check if the button turns yellow to make sure it’s on.

  1. Adjust exposure using your camera settings before taking a photo.

The vivo V30 Series 5G’s exposure can be adjusted before taking photos to ensure that your pictures are neither too bright nor too dark. To do this, you can simply tap your screen and adjust the brightness by pulling the sun symbol upwards or downwards to check how much light enters your phone camera before clicking the shutter. Adjusting exposure during the night plays a significant role in capturing views and portraits.

Grid Lines


Exposure


Built-in Photo Editor

  1. Seek out good lighting, preferably natural and diffused.

It’s important to always find good lighting, especially during the night. But when you are in areas with minimal lights, you can use the Aura Light 3.0 feature of the vivo V30 Series. To turn on Aura Light 3.0, click the flash button on top of your camera on the screen. You can adjust the tone of the light by simply gliding the color palette button below.

  1. Experiment with various angles for unique shots.

Angles are crucial when it comes to taking the best shots. Think out of the box, use your creativity, or utilize the vivo V30 Series' 0.6x, 1x, 2x, or 4x to focus on your subjects or if you want to take wide shots. You can check the buttons above the photo to try all angles that suit your perspective to get unique night shots that are worth sharing.

  1. Utilize the built-in photo editor.

Edit your night shots right away. You can use the vivo V30 Series' built-in photo editor. Just simply check your shots in your gallery and click the edit button below to modify the framing, adjust the exposure and brightness, add filters, erase unwanted objects, add light effects, or put on bokeh effects. By doing this, you don’t have to go online or download editing apps to make minor adjustments to your night shots.

 

The vivo V30 Series promises exceptional performance, especially in photography. Capturing stunning night photos is effortlessly achievable with this series.

The V30 Series offers three options:

       vivo V30 Pro with 12GB RAM and 512GB storage for Php 34,999

       vivo V30 with 12GB RAM and up to 512GB storage at the starting price of Php 24,999

       vivo V30e with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage for Php 17,999

You can purchase the vivo V30 Series at vivo concept stores and kiosks nationwide, or through e-commerce platforms like Shopee, TikTok, and Lazada.

Stay updated on the latest vivo smartphone releases by visiting vivo’s official website.

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ATEEZ dominates global charts with tenth mini-album, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1]


South Korean boyband ATEEZ dominates this week’s cultural conversations with the release of their tenth mini-album, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1].

The powerhouse group’s new record has reached No. 1 in more than 30 countries on iTunes, making it one of the best-selling K-Pop releases of 2024, globally.

With a stylistic range that embraces new sonic flavors and exciting production approaches, [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1] opens a new saga for the eight-member pop act to explore in terms of conceptual direction.

As presented in the ideation for the latest era, ATEEZ begs the question, “What are we doing in the final moments of daylight right before the sun sets,” and interprets in a multitude of ways how everyone would feel experiencing the “golden hour” of their lives with a picture-perfect moment or lack of it.

ATEEZ’s tenth studio album features the lead single “WORK,” which intuitively expresses the award-winning group’s continuous commitment to striving and facing challenges. Other standout tracks on the record include the energetic dance anthem “Blind,” the reggae-meets-EDM banger “Shaboom” and the bombastic upbeat song “Siren.”

Track list:
1. Golden Hour
2. Blind
3. WORK
4. Empty Box
5. Shaboom
6. Siren
ATEEZ's global impact is undeniable. They made history as the first K-pop boy group to grace the stage of ‘Coachella,’ the largest music festival in the U.S. They’re also set to perform at Japan’s largest music festival, Summer Sonic, this August 2024. With their shining performances around the world, ATEEZ continues to be unbeatable in the game.

With the release of their second studio album, [THE WORLD EP.FIN: WILL], in December last year, they topped the U.S. Billboard main chart, 'Billboard 200,' and ranked second on the UK 'Official Album Chart,' setting a career-high in the world's two major charts.

ATEEZ’s [GOLDEN HOUR Part. 1] is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via KQ Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment.

Celebrating Father’s Day with love and gratitude at Solaire Resort Entertainment City

Oasis Garden Café’s Father’s Day Afternoon Tea

It’s all about dad at Solaire Resort Entertainment City. Honor the most important man in your life and celebrate Father’s Day with a wide selection of exquisite culinary delights from an elegant brunch buffet, special set menus, succulent steaks, buffet spreads, or a relaxing afternoon tea with the family. Let dad indulge and enjoy a feast for his senses and celebrate a day filled with laughter and cherished memories at Solaire.

Enjoy a sumptuous Italian Sunday brunch at Finestra, where dad can feast on sophisticated dishes such as traditional beef tartare, succulent roasted leg of lamb, red wine-braised flat iron steak, and authentic carbonara. Sweeten the experience with a decadent hazelnut cake and rich chocolate pudding. This festive event features free-flowing champagne, a selection of fine Italian wines, signature cocktails, and a roving prosecco trolley. To make the day even more special, dads dining at Finestra will receive a surprise gift.

For a delightful family feast, head to Red Lantern for their Eat-All-You-Can dim sum buffet and try their new set of ala carte specialties. Pamper dad with his favorite dim sum treats like pan-fried black pepper wagyu beef bun, crystal skin lobster dumplings, baked barbecue pork puff, or deep-fried cheese and prawn spring rolls. Enjoy a lavish spread of family-style dishes including “dong po” style braised pork belly, wok-fried diced Angus beef with shallots and black pepper sauce, deep-fried butter prawns with salted egg yolk, or “Shanghai Style” braised green garoupa with soya chili sauce. Complete the feast with desserts like black glutinous rice with coconut ice cream or deep-fried kataifi roll with avocado paste.

Treat dad for a surprise brunch at Yakumi, where he can savor an array of authentic Japanese dishes from 8 live stations. Indulge in seafood teppanyaki dishes like the Boston lobster, tiger prawns, sake-steamed mussels, Blue Marlin, and Red Snapper Papillote. Create your own hotpot dish such as sukiyaki or shabu-shabu, and try the Tai sakemushi, a Japanese sake steamed seabream with seasonal vegetables. Dads can also enjoy unlimited drinks, including Japanese shochu, sake, and a special Father’s Day cocktail featuring Japanese whisky Iwai and Horodoke Peach sake served in Highball.

Miso baked Hokkaido scallop and marinated soya grilled salmon, 
Ikura with edamame purée from Yakumi’s Father’s Day set menu

For a one-of-a-kind BBQ brunch experience with dad, delve into grilled favorites with tempting choices like chicken, pork tenderloin, and the flavorful jalapeño and fennel sausages. Explore the Butcher's Block for a premium selection of meats, then visit the carving station for Cebu lechon or pork belly and whole roasted prime rib, perfectly paired with Waterside’s signature paella. Add fun to the family brunch and customize your own milkshakes with a variety of toppings, from whimsical sprinkles to pastel-hued cotton candy, and mouthwatering doughnuts. Plus, every dad receives a special gift to brighten his day.
Pan-fried duck liver, dry apricots, pickled asparagus from
 Finestra’s Father’s Day set menu

Try luxurious dishes from Fresh, with a variety of buffet stations showcasing the finest seafood and meats from Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese cuisines. Treat dad to exclusive dishes like succulent beef brisket, creamy lengua estofado with mushrooms, pork and chicken sisig, blue crabs, oysters, clams, and curacha. Indulge in unlimited lobster featuring Boston lobster prepared in Homard Tom Yum sauce by Chef Goh Fukuyama of La Maison de la Nature Goh, a culinary haven in Fukuoka that boasts a Michelin Star. Share quality time with dad as you enjoy a walking photo booth and a caricaturist, while being serenaded by a live band and entertained by a captivating magic show. Kids can join in the fun with games, arts & crafts, and visits to various food booths, including a popcorn and hotdog stand.

Unwind at Oasis Garden Café and catch up with dad over tea and delightful sandwiches like the Reuben sandwich, buffalo chicken subway, or mini beef slider. Treat yourselves to sweet indulgences such as Macallan smoked pecan cigars, Jack Daniel’s apple tarts, or a Jameson crème chocolate stout mousse. For savory delights, dads can try the beef kare-kare croquettes or beef morcone with purple cabbage slaw. Watch out for the Whisky pop-up bar for a special toast to dad’s day.

Satisfy dad’s appetite and heart with a memorable celebration at Solaire. Reserve your seats now by calling 8888-8888 or email restaurantevents@solaireresort.com.



realme’s New Flagship Killer GT 6 Launches in PH alongside Global


realme, the fastest-growing smartphone brand globally, has announced that the global debut of the flagship GT 6 will commence on June 20 during a product launch event in Milan, Italy.

In the local landscape, realme Philippines confirmed that it will be launching the GT 6 simultaneously with global on the same day at 4PM Philippine Standard Time.

Following a two-year hiatus, this global product launch marks a significant milestone for realme. The realme GT product line gained widespread acclaim from users and tech enthusiasts from all over the world.

realme introduces the upcoming GT series as the "New Flagship Killer Powered by AI," positioned to surpass or outshine its predecessors. Slated to continue the momentum of the GT lineup that first debuted back in March 2021, the GT 6 is hailed as the “Premium Flagship Killer” that captivates the high-end smartphone market. It is designed to deliver exceptional performance and a myriad of innovative features and is poised to redefine the smartphone landscape as the next-generation game-changers.

The Squad can look forward to experiencing seamless state-of-the-art AI capabilities with the upcoming realme GT 6. Furthermore, the realme GT 6 harnesses the power of AI to remarkably enhance image quality, user interaction, and productivity to remarkable levels, with the ambitious goal of popularizing AI technology for youthful audiences worldwide.

Tune in to the local launch of the realme GT 6 on June 20 at 4PM (PHT) via livestream on realme Philippines’ official YouTube and Facebook pages.

Personal Collection wins big at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, listed among PH best employers


Personal Collection (PC), one of the leading direct selling and consumer goods company, has earned recognitions at the recent 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices and continued product innovation to better the lives of Filipinos.

Chairman of Environment, Social & Governance Committee Leejay Evangelista

PC bagged a Gold Stevie Award in the Social Impact Company category for its #GreenLifeGreatLife movement, serving as the anchor for its sustainable operations. These practices entail a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and strategic innovations in manufacturing and logistics.

Aside from transitioning to biodegradable packaging, PC has been implementing initiatives such as minimizing electricity and water consumption, enhancing distribution efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and lessening carbon emissions, among others. Moreover, the company has been taking significant steps to manage plastic waste, surpassing its 2023 goal by co-processing over 98 tons of plastic, in compliance with the Philippines’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

Additionally, PC continuously delivers groundbreaking solutions for Filipino families through innovation. This dedication inspired its Bronze Stevie Award for Excellence in Innovation in Consumer Products for its White Dove with DreamScentz™ Technology, its Baby Care Line.

Proven to provide HIMBING-BANGO for babies, the DreamScentz™ Technology incorporated in White Dove is a revolutionary fragrance that is clinically proven to help give longer and more restful sleep.

“We're deeply honored to receive awards for White Dove with DreamScentzTM Technology and our #GreenLifeGreatLife Movement. These recognitions belong to our employees, dealers, partners, and customers. Thank you for believing in our innovative efforts and our mission to make a difference now and for future generations,” Chairman of Environment, Social & Governance Committee Leejay Evangelista said during his acceptance speech at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards Night at the Shangri-La The Fort.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ best employers

As the company advances its eco-friendly practices and innovation, PC simultaneously fosters an inclusive and empowering workplace for every Filipino worker. Recently, PC entered the list of The Philippines’ Best Employers in 2024, conducted by Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista.

"Part of our values here at PC is people development. We are passionate about helping our employees grow and reach their fullest potential. Because we want them to also reach the "Great Life,” Senior Vice President of HROD and Chief People Officer Ruby Jaucian emphasized.

Dedicated to enhancing the overall employee experience, PC has been implementing initiatives with its people's well-being and growth in mind. These include extending health benefits and group life insurance to employees (including LGBTQIA+), as well as streamlining internal processes for increased efficiency.

The Best Employers list of the Philippine Daily Inquirer in partnership with Statista, assesses employer attractiveness based on tens of thousands of evaluations, opinions from thousands of employees, and scores from hundreds of companies.

To learn more about Personal Collection Direct Selling Inc., visit their:

June 7, 2024

The soon-to-launch realme C65 is certified future-proof

Its well-rounded features prove that the realme C65 is the only phone you’ll need for years to come


The highly anticipated realme C65 will hit Philippine shelves on June 13.

A standout among other devices in its segment, the realme C65 has a 48-month Fluency Rating and Low Blue Light Certification granted by TÜV Rheinland, a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification services.

realme has gone the extra mile with the realme C65, so it's not just an average smartphone - it's a device the Squad can rely on for its solid build quality, innovative features, and sustainable use. Here's why:



It feels brand new even after four years

The realme C65 has completed a series of comprehensive tests to determine its peak capacity. As a result, the TÜV SÜD 48-Month Fluency Rating is a game-changer for those who depend heavily on their devices.

This certification ensures that the realme C65 will maintain its performance when properly cared for, ensuring a smooth user experience for at least four years, even as newer models enter the market.

The Squad can look forward to an enjoyable smartphone experience with fewer crashes and less frequent upgrades, making it a sustainable choice that doesn't compromise performance.


It has Low Blue Light for better eye care

Screen time is virtually unavoidable, exposing individuals to blue light emitted by various devices. According to experts, prolonged exposure can lead to eye strain, disrupted sleep, and visual discomfort.

Luckily, the realme C65 provides a simple solution with its TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light Certification. Compared to standard devices, the realme C65 emits lower levels of blue light, reducing the adverse effects of screen time and making it safer and more comfortable.

It has all the Real Essentials

Real Essentials are realme's latest features that optimize the user experience. These dedicated functions on the realme C65 are tailor-made to enhance and streamline users' ability to maximize their device's capabilities.

The Real Essentials include hands-free Air Gestures controls, a customizable Dynamic Button, interactive Mini Capsule 2.0, Rainwater Smart Touch, a quick and easy Smart Code Scan, Customized Lowest Brightness, AI Boost for performance, and an easy UI interface during Riding Mode.

Together, these innovative features make the realme C65 a versatile smartphone that adapts to any lifestyle, making everyday tasks simpler and more efficient.

A wise investment

The realme C65 is expertly crafted to deliver top-tier, high-quality performance. With its versatile features, this smartphone offers exceptional value for money compared to other devices in its segment.

For savvy shoppers such as Millennials and Gen Zs who prioritize value in every purchase, the realme C65 is a wise investment. It offers the best value for their money and assures a reliable, long-lasting companion for years.

To learn more about realme’s latest updates, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.


Lifebuoy with Multivitamins+ is your New Bigating Champion!


As people go out more often, one may be exposed to different germs that may affect one’s health. Thus, proper hygiene is essential in maintaining health and well-being. For one, taking a bath not only cleanses the body but also promotes healthy skin and fights against germs.
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With the risks of stronger germs, Lifebuoy with Multivitamins+ helps boost skin immunity with regular use and provides bigating germ kill action (based on lab test).
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Lifebuoy, a trusted name in hygiene and germ protection, is proud to introduce Lifebuoy with Multivitamins+, their new and improved range of bar soap, body wash, and hand wash formulated to become every Filipino family's bigating champion against germs, even stronger germs. With regular use, it helps boost skin immunity with its multivitamin formula including Vitamins B3, C, and E for bigating germ kill action (based on lab test), all at an affordable price.

“Using ordinary soap may no longer be enough to help protect yourself against today’s evolving germs,” said Lifebuoy Brand Manager Anthony Chiang. “Lifebuoy with Multivitamins+ is your bigatin champion that not only helps you stay clean and fresh, but helps to enhance your skin immunity and helps to protect it from germs.”

Lifebuoy aims to help families experience their new bigatin champion against germs. Lifebuoy with Multivitamins+ 100g Antibacterial Soap bars is now available in supermarkets nationwide at SRP Php 42 for singles and Php 108.35 for triple packs. 

For more information, visit Lifebuoy’s official Facebook Page.

Capturing Moments, Connecting Communities: HUAWEI Holds XMAGE Exhibit Featuring Photos Shot by the HUAWEI Pura 70 Series


After much anticipation on its latest line of smartphones, as well as taking the number 1 spot in DXOMark’s 2024 rankings*HUAWEI Philippines has kicked things off with a bang with the first sales of its newest Pura 70 Series.

To celebrate this milestone, HUAWEI is hosting nationwide mall exhibits, giving customers the opportunity to experience the imaging prowess of the HUAWEI Pura 70 Series firsthand.

Be transformed through Pura

HUAWEI's Pura 70 Series stands out in the mobile industry with cutting-edge camera technology, offering features like Ultra Speed Snapshot and Ultra Lighting Macro Telephoto camera modules for professional-grade portraits. The minimalist triangular frame design and bold aesthetic choices, including the new pink color of the Pura 70 and the starry pattern of the Pura 70 Ultra, reflect HUAWEI's commitment to innovation and style. The series guarantees bright, crisp, and vivid photos, embodying both tech innovation and sophistication.

Three malls celebrating one smartphone icon

The SM Megamall exhibition will be held at the Fashion Hall from June 7-9, 2024. This event will offer an interactive experience to its guests, as they’ll receive a special passport with tasks and will be rewarded with exciting freebies and prizes upon completion. In Visayas, the exhibition at SM Cebu, located at the lower ground main hall, will run for two weeks beginning June 1, 2024, and focuses on showcasing the Pura 70 Series' stylish designs, customizable interface, and industry-leading camera technology. Similarly, Davao’s exhibit at the ground floor of SM Davao’s Annex building features the same program as in Cebu’s event, but also gives a 5% discount on cash purchases along with a complimentary gift.

An exhibit filled with “moments”


As a prominent and highly-marketed feature of the phones, the exhibits in each of the three malls will showcase the diverse collection of photographs captured using the Pura 70 Series lineup. The exhibit, titled “Heartwarming Moments”, features shots from landscapes captured from far away to portraits shot up close, and highlighted different “moments” promoted by the Pura narrative, namely moments of time, smile, beauty, and discovery. The photos being featured were carefully selected from different entities like Fotomoto, Manila Bulletin, Vogue Philippines, and even from HUAWEI’s community of tech enthusiasts, photographers, and avid fans.

Thanks to XMAGE technology, when combined together, each of the moments weave together a unique and heartwarming story, commonly found in everyday life, and to capture the world in its most stunning version. It encourages Pura users to go beyond exploration and instead find discovery through stories and connections. To kickstart their Pura journey, they can start by dropping by any of the mall exhibits to check out all of the phone series’ functional and aesthetic features.

Witness the power of Pura



The Pura 70 Series is now available nationwide through HUAWEI’s physical and online stores, and users are encouraged to act now if they want to experience firsthand what these phones have to offer. To learn more about the Huawei Pura 70, the Huawei Pura 70 Pro, and the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

20 years of BDO ShopMore Mastercard: MORE Rewards, MORE Fun!


BDO Unibank celebrates the 20th anniversary of BDO ShopMore Mastercard by relaunching it with exciting new benefits and three new vibrant card designs, which applicants can choose from when they sign up.

Made from 100% recycled plastic, the new and improved BDO ShopMore Mastercard offers more rewards for more fun, such as:
  • · FREE Membership Fee on the first year
  • · 250 Welcome Bonus Peso Points after the first purchase
  • · 2x Peso Points from everyday everywhere purchases
  • · Extra Cashback instant savings, and year-round exclusive deals from in-store and online purchases from select partners*
  • · Discounts on dining and food deliveries from select partners*
  • · Buy Now, Pay Later deals from over 20,000 stores with 0% interest
*Terms and Conditions apply

“Enhancing BDO ShopMore Mastercard is our way of thanking our loyal clients and inviting new ones to enjoy its benefits,” said Ma. Nannette R. Regala, BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Banking Group Marketing. “For two decades, BDO ShopMore Mastercard has been an indispensable shopping partner for many Filipinos. With a simple dip, tap, or using BDO Pay scan-to-pay, it has allowed users to bring home essential items that make their lives more convenient and rewarding.”

As the market also shifted to digital payments, ShopMore Mastercard cardholders have come to experience the safety and convenience of online shopping through trusted apps and websites. Cardholders can benefit from year-round offers from BDO’s partnerships with top eCommerce platforms such as Lazada, Shopee, GrabFood, and foodpanda to name a few, and enjoy discounts with restaurants offering as much as 50% off. It’s definitely a more colorful and more fun shopping experience as ShopMore Mastercard cardholders can also choose from different installment options that fit their budget and lifestyle.

They can also use it abroad; BDO ShopMore Mastercard is accepted in over 20 million locations in around 275 countries and territories.

In commemoration of its two decades in the market, BDO is setting up booths in SM Megamall (Mega Fashion Hall) on May 28, SM Seaside City Cebu (Mountain Wing) on June 21, and SM North Edsa (The Block Event Area) on August 8 for clients and mall-goers to rediscover and appreciate BDO ShopMore Mastercard’s benefits and rewards.

Experience More Rewards, More Fun with the all-new BDO ShopMore Mastercard. Get yours today! Visit the ShopMore booths or apply online at www.bdo.com.ph/mc-shopmore.

Amaia Steps Pasig nears completion with topping off ceremony of Clara Building

Amaia Steps Pasig recently held the topping off ceremony of the Clara Building, its fourth residential mid-rise in the complex, bringing the contemporary development closer to aspiring condo dwellers looking to settle down in the heart of Pasig City.

Amaia VIPs attend Amaia Steps Pasig Clara Building topping off ceremony. (L-R Jemelyn Manongsong, CSG GEO Head; Jasmin Espiritu, MetroSouth Inhs GEO Head; Jeanette Saturnino, MRT Head; Ramon Quiaoit, MDC Operations Head; Deedin Benig-Alulod, North Manila Project Development Manager)

The topping off is a traditional milestone in the construction industry when the final structural beam is raised into place, completing the building's frame. It is at this point that Amaia Steps Pasig—all 464 units of it, plus its amenities—may be fully appreciated by property seekers, and when its buyers and investors may look forward to moving into their dream abodes.

The fortunate lot who have invested in Amaia Steps Pasig’s Clara Building may expect the fulfillment of their aspirations as they create a vibrant community. Located in the bustling neighborhood of Eusebio Street in Barangay Miguel, Pasig City, the strikingly designed residential condominium touts a strategic location that blends urban convenience with suburban tranquility.

After all, Amaia Steps Pasig has easy access to major roads and highways, established schools, hospitals, and commercial centers. Likewise, the development is less than six kilometers away from Ortigas Central Business District, and just four kilometers from C5 Road.

Envisioned for the passion-driven generation, such as ambitious young professionals and students, enterprising individuals, and starting families, this four-hectare modern mid-rise residential project is also within a brief drive and commute to various government offices and hospitals.

Offering both accessibility and a serene retreat, Amaia Steps Pasig features retail spaces right at homeowners’ doorsteps, placing everyday essentials within reach. One can grab a quick bite or run important errands just steps away from their homes. Already functional amenities include a swimming pool, a basketball court, a playground, a multi-purpose hall, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

The Clara Building, the final structure in the Amaia Steps Pasig project, offers a variety of cozy unit options, including Studio, Deluxe, and Premier units, with sizes ranging from 23 to 42 square meters. Each is designed to cater to the needs of its residents and their fast-paced lifestyles.

With the near completion of Amaia Steps Pasig’s Clara Building, the turnover of its units to new homeowners looms in the horizon.

For inquiries about Amaia Steps Pasig or other Amaia properties, visit https://www.amaialand.com or contact our Amaia real estate salesperson.


A summer of awesome fun: Adie, DonBelle share what they love about the Samsung A55 5G and A35 5G

As summer turns up the heat, Samsung continues to dial up the awesome with its latest A-series phones and with new member of #TeamGalaxy – singer-songwriter Adie as well as Galaxy A Series ambassador– Gen Z love team Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano.

These celebrities flexed new ways to create awesome content, sharing their favorite features of the new Galaxy A55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G.

Capturing Awesome summer moments

As content creators, these GenZ stars love discovering tools to capture their awesome moments with the Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G. These features include Dual Recording that helps you record yourself and your POV, Stable HDR, for smooth on-the-go videos through optical image stabilization (OIS) and video digital image stabilization (VDIS) and Single Take, which uses AI to capture up to 14 photos and videos in just a few seconds, letting you pick the perfect shot.

Singer-songwriter Adie, for instance, raved about the Dual Recording feature on the Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G. “Ang cool lang nung idea while using the front camera you pwede mo ding gamitin yung back camera at the same time,” (The idea is just cool, while using the front camera, you can also use the back camera at the same time.) Adie said.

Donny and Belle, on the other hand, love the Single Take feature of their phones. Belle shares, “I love the Single Take. Kasi you can take multiple photos and videos sa Single Take. So ang ganda lang na you have so many choices.” (I love the Single Take feature. Because you can take multiple photos and videos with Single Take. So it's great that you have so many choices.)

“And it’s not blurry,” Donny chimed in.


Getting Creative with Content

These Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G come with an awesome suite of content creation tools, enhanced by One UI 6.1. Enjoy Remaster Tools for better photos and GIFs, Eraser Tools to remove unwanted objects, and a built-in Studio Video Editor for easy, on-the-go editing.

Donny’s favorite One UI 6.1 feature is the Photo Remaster. He shared, “The moment you take a photo, you put on the Photo Remaster mode, you could see the photo literally become so much more HD when you swipe it that way. Super nice to have, super convenient.”

Meanwhile, Belle loves the ease of using Object Eraser to help her get the cleanest shot, “I think it’s really convenient. Ang hirap humanap ng ganon, like, na phone na aalisin talaga yung unwanted objects.” (I think it's really convenient. It's hard to find something like that, like, a phone that really removes unwanted objects.)

The Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G also come in vibrant colors that perfectly suit these GenZ artists' vibes. Belle adores how the Awesome Lilac is so elegant, saying, "It's so Belle," while Donny shared that Ice Blue was his hue of choice.

For Adie, he loves the timeless look of the phone, with the Navy Blue being his favorite. “Wala parang si Paraluman, ang timeless talaga eh. So ayun, kahuma-humaling,” (It's like Paraluman, really timeless. So there, it's captivating), he shared.

Built for Awesome Summer Adventures

The Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G are packed with top-notch security and durability, making them the awesome buddies for your summer adventures!

Samsung Knox Vault is a trusted multi-layered security system that keeps your entire Galaxy ecosystem safe, with secure hardware, real-time threat detection, and collaborative vulnerability defense. Plus, the phones feature a Splash-Resistant Camera with an IP67 rating, making them dust and water-resistant—they can even handle being submerged in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes!

Donny shared how the phone being dust-proof was one of his favorite features. “When I go outdoors to try new hobbies like hiking and camping, it’s like a requirement that your phone is dustproof so it can be as efficient as possible! In terms of content, we can shoot anywhere. We can shoot outdoors, you can shoot indoors, when it’s raining or something or like when we’re gonna go out for a swim, a road trip, the mountains or whatever. Any type of content you want, it’s built for it!”

This summer is also full of all-day endeavors for these GenZ stars, that’s why they need phones that can keep up with their busy pace. Belle loves the long battery life, especially crucial during long shooting days. “The battery life is so long, especially pag nasa taping kami– it really helps,” (The battery life is so long, especially when we're on set – it really helps), she said.

Adie echoed this sentiment, saying, “Yung [long] battery life niya, very helpful yun sa mga artist na katulad ko, Let’s say may naisip na idea or lyrics, kailangan ma-sulat siya agad kasi minsan nagfa-fade yun eh. And at the same time yung melodies na naiisip mo for that song, yun din kailangan mo i-record.” (The long battery life is very helpful for artists like me. Let's say you have a sudden idea or lyrics, you need to write it down quickly because sometimes it fades away. And at the same time, you also need to record the melodies you think of for that song.)

Donny, Belle and Adie are all loving these awesome phones, and now it's your opportunity to #CreateAwesome like your favorite #TeamGalaxy stars! The Galaxy A55 5G is available for ₱24,990 (8+256GB), while the Galaxy A35 5G is ₱20,990 (8+256GB). A 128GB variant is only available through Globe Telecom and Smart Communications.

Buy now and enjoy a Free Travel Adapter worth ₱1,190. You can get these phones with 0% interest for up to 18 months on Home Credit and 0% for up to 12 months on credit card, with an additional P5,000 off when you trade in your existing handset for a new Galaxy A55 or A35 5G.

To learn more about the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A35 5G, and other Galaxy smartphones simply visit the Samsung Newsroom, Samsung Mobile Press, and Samsung.com.