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September 28, 2024

HONOR PayDay Deals: Up to 50% off gadgets and 0% interest on installment

Wake up when September ends! Vouchers worth up to Php 14,000 await on Shopee, Lazada, and Tiktok Shop this coming Payday Sale!

The leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, has started the festive season with vouchers for huge discounts and savings on PayDay Sale from September 28 to October 2. Worry less on installments because HONOR is still offering 0% interest on Shopee, Lazada, and Tiktok Shop!

"The holidays are fast-approaching and as early as now, we offer promos and vouchers to kickstart the festive season! So, what are you waiting for? Check out all the HONOR Official stores to get first dibs on discounted HONOR devices on PayDay Sale." said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

For affordable budget options, the HONOR X6b is available for as low as Php 5,699 from its original price of Php 5,999. The HONOR X5 Plus is also a good catch for only Php 3,986 from its original price of Php 5,990.

The crowd’s durable phone favorites are the HONOR X9b and HONOR X9a with FREE Earbuds II on PayDay Sale. The HONOR X9b is priced at Php 16,000 from Php 16,999 and the HONOR X9a is equally affordable for as low as Php 11,790 from Php 16,990.

Finally, for HONOR Pad X9 fans, the tablet is available for as low as Php 9,990 from original price of Php 11,990. For the complete list of HONOR items with FREEBIES and discounts, check the cheat sheet below.

Don’t miss out on PayDay Sale and head on to Shopee https://bit.ly/ShopeeHONORPayDaySale, Lazada https://bit.ly/LazadaHONORPayDaySale, and Tiktok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTokHONORPayDaySale

Stay tuned on the latest updates and make sure to follow through HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Stay Fit, Connected, and Stylish with the TechLife Smart Watch L1


This new smartwatch from TechLife is the device of choice for any hobby and lifestyle

Everyone has different hobbies and lifestyles. Whether they're an athlete, a busy professional, or someone who enjoys a laid-back routine, one thing's for sure—they need a tech companion that can keep up with the demand.

Designed to seamlessly fit into any lifestyle, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 offers a range of features that will keep users in sync, whether working out, taking office calls, or simply enjoying a chill day with friends.

It has three key features that the TechLife Fam will surely enjoy and make use of: a 1.96” Curved AMOLED Display that provides stunning clarity, Bluetooth Calling Support for staying connected on the go, and comprehensive Health and Fitness Tracking that makes monitoring wellness effortless.

For the fitness enthusiast

For those who enjoy lacing up their sneakers for an early morning run or squeezing in workouts after a long day, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 is an ideal fitness buddy.

Its 1.96” Curved AMOLED Display and 370 Nits of brightness offer vibrant colors and sharp detail, making it easy to see that even when mid-sprint.

More importantly, the built-in Health and Fitness Tracking features are a must-have. With Heart Rate Monitoring, Blood Oxygen Monitoring, and Sleep Monitoring, users can stay on top of their health and ensure they're performing at their best.

There are also over 110+ fitness modes to give more accurate data when exercising. This includes running, cycling, yoga, or even more specialized workouts like rowing or hiking. And because the watch is IP68 Dust and Water Resistant, users don’t have to worry about it getting damaged from sweat or accidental splashes.

For the office chic

Conquer meetings and presentations and catch up with colleagues in style because the TechLife Smart Watch L1 can keep up with productivity and match everyday OOTDs.

The Bluetooth Calling Support allows users to answer calls directly from the smartwatch thanks to the built-in microphone and speakers – no more scrambling to grab the phone during a busy meeting.

Office workers will also appreciate receiving notifications from work and social apps on the watch. This means they're always in the loop, whether it’s a reminder for the next Zoom call or a message from a colleague.

At the same time, the smartwatch has over 200 customizable watch faces, so users can easily change the watch's look to fit their mood or match their style. The swappable straps, available in black and silver, let users further personalize the watch to their outfit for the day.

For the casual weekender

The TechLife Smart Watch still shines when it's time to unwind on the weekends.

It offers Music Control that syncs seamlessly with third-party apps like Spotify and YouTube. This allows users to easily play, pause, or skip tracks right from the smartwatch, ensuring they always have the perfect soundtrack with just a tap on their wrists when they're out and about in town.

For easy selfies done in just a snap, the watch can also connect to smartphones and serve as a camera clicker when taking photos and videos. Compatibility isn't an issue here, as the TechLife Smart Watch L1 is designed to work seamlessly with both Android 6 and iOS 12 devices and above.

With a 7-day battery life, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 is built to last from Monday blues through Sunday brunch.

Priced at just P1,999, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 is available at TechLife stores nationwide and on TechLife's e-commerce platforms. During the upcoming Payday Sale from September 28 to October 2, the TechLife Fam can purchase the watch on TikTok Shop, Shopee, and Lazada for a discounted price:

Platform

Checkout Price

Freebie

TikTok Shop

P1,399

Watch Strap

Shopee

P1,279

Lazada

P1,199

n/a



So whether it’s keeping track of fitness goals, staying connected during the workday, or simply adding a stylish accessory to an everyday look, the TechLife Smart Watch L1 fits into any lifestyle.

To stay updated on promos about the TechLife Smart Watch L1 and other announcements, follow TechLife’s Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.


PepsiCo Announces Alternō as 2024 APAC Greenhouse Accelerator Winner; Program Helps Promote Sustainable Innovation in the Region


PepsiCo, today, unveiled Alternō as the winner of its 2024 Greenhouse Accelerator Program - APAC edition, highlighting the company's ongoing desire to help foster next-generation solutions for a more sustainable future. The Greenhouse Accelerator is an important initiative within PepsiCo’s pep+ strategy, which seeks to promote sustainability across the company’s operations. By supporting entrepreneurs across APAC, including the Philippines, who focus on reducing waste, improving food security, and addressing climate change, PepsiCo is reinforcing its efforts to work towards a sustainable food system that benefits both people and the planet.
  • The program - in its second year in the region - aligns with PepsiCo’s sustainability strategy (pep+) and aims to inspire change in the F&B industry through collaboration and innovation.
  • Alternō demonstrated its low-cost thermal energy storage solution that champions one of the three key focus areas of the Greenhouse Accelerator program - sustainable agriculture.

This year, one of the finalists of the program was Takachar, a Filipino startup which was chosen for its innovative approach to transforming crop and forest residues into high-value, carbon-negative products like fertilizers, chemicals, and biofuels—helping to advance climate justice. By developing small, low-cost, portable systems that attach to tractors and pick-up trucks, Takachar enables deployment to remote rural areas, empowering local bioeconomies while helping to reduce the air pollution and carbon emissions caused by open-air biomass burning.


Selected from a group of 10 finalists across APAC, including the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and China, the 2024 Greenhouse Accelerator Program winner, Alternō, was selected for its pioneering approach to reducing carbon emissions across agriculture, industry, and residential heating through thermal energy. 


As part of their win, Alternō will receive an additional USD 100,000 grant to further develop its solution. This grant will be instrumental in helping them to scale their sand-based battery, which was recently piloted at PepsiCo’s food plant in Vietnam, completing a pellet drying project with a view to trial heating oil next. 


“Winning PepsiCo’s APAC Greenhouse Accelerator Program 2024 is a pivotal moment for our startup,” said Hai Ho, Co-Founder and COO of Alternō. “PepsiCo’s mentorship and resources have helped us sharpen our strategy and accelerate our growth. We look forward to further collaborating with PepsiCo to expand the reach of our solution and contribute to a more sustainable future.”


The Greenhouse Accelerator Program is designed to be a launchpad for startups that are reimagining the future of business through sustainability. Participants received personalized mentorship from PepsiCo executives, a USD 20,000 grant, and access to PepsiCo’s extensive industry network, positioning them to bring their innovative solutions to market faster.


Wern-Yuen Tan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), APAC and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of PepsiCo, remarked, “The APAC Greenhouse Accelerator Program goes beyond celebrating a single winner; it highlights the growing momentum behind sustainable innovation. Through our pep+ strategy, PepsiCo is proud to support visionary entrepreneurs who are helping to build a future where businesses and the planet can thrive. By fostering collaboration, mentorship, and access to resources, we’re helping to scale innovative ideas that seek to address critical environmental and social challenges. This program represents an investment in the future of our planet, and we look forward to continuing this journey, ensuring these solutions can continue to grow and benefit generations to come.”

A diverse panel of judges evaluated the startups based on their innovation, feasibility, scalability, and alignment with PepsiCo’s sustainability goals. The panel included Pariwat Wongsamran, Deputy Executive Director of the Innovation System at National Innovation Agency; Yosavee Niranvichaiya, Senior Investment Manager for Thailand at Circulate Capital; Oranuch Lerdsuwankij, CEO and Co-Founder of Techsauce Investor; Alan Choi, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at PepsiCo APAC; Ashley Brown, Vice President of Supply Chain ANZ and Chief Sustainability Officer at PepsiCo APAC; and Sudipto Mozumdar, GM, IndoChina Foods and CCO for APAC at PepsiCo.

In just four months, the 2024 Greenhouse Accelerator Program has launched seven startup pilots within PepsiCo’s value chain, focusing on Climate Action, Sustainable Agriculture, and Circular Economy, which are tackling challenges like reducing carbon emissions, improving resource efficiency, and fostering circular supply chains. Building on the success of the 2023 cohort, which now has four pilots running at various stages, the 2024 pilots are setting the stage for improved environmental and operational impact.

Among last year’s participants, TURN, a finalist, has successfully partnered with Gatorade to launch the Gatorade x TURN reusable cup, which is currently being piloted with AFLW and AFL clubs in Australia. The initiative is expected to replace approximately 200,000 single-use cups, exemplifying the impact that Greenhouse startups can have on sustainability. Adiona - a startup that brings real-time data visibility to delivery operations - is already in a second-phase pilot with wheels on the ground, analyzing PepsiCo’s delivery data and proposing efficiency improvements at its Tingalpa plant. These enhancements can potentially reduce the distance travelled and, consequently, help to lower CO2 emissions.


Last year’s GHAC winner, Powered Carbon, has reached multiple business milestones since participation. Powered Carbon has, to date, provided its low-carbon bio-fertilizer to PepsiCo's potato fields across Guangdong, Shandong, Gansu, and Inner Mongolia. Since participating in the Greenhouse Accelerator program, Powered Carbon has not only raised market awareness and attracted the attention of investors but has also enjoyed a six-fold surge in income since August 2023.


PepsiCo is exploring a third edition of the Greenhouse Accelerator Program in APAC, set for 2025. To date, startups across the previous 11 editions worldwide have generated a total of USD 200 million in annual revenue, showcasing the program’s ability to fuel growth and support the launch of sustainable solutions.

Breeze through your daily grind with the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G


For young Filipinos who have to endure the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still taking care of themselves, having a constant and reliable entertainment partner such as the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is a must.

From preparing to go to work to the commute in the busy city streets to unwinding in between breaks and at home, the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is an ideal device to destress with, mainly for its immersive entertainment features, versatile camera, and powerful battery.

A powerful battery and fast charging to keep up with your day-to-day needs

You can rely on the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G as it boasts a robust 5500 mAh battery which can even last up to 2.1 days of use in just a single charge. Worrying about long trips and being on the go won’t be necessary as the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is fitted with the largest battery on a OnePlus device yet!

And when you need to recharge your device, you won’t have to wait for long because the 80W SUPERVOOCTM Fast Charging feature of the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G can re-up your power to a full 100% in just 50 minutes, making it an ideal device if you are someone who are always on the go for meetings or night out with friends.


A device that can get you in the mood for work and fun

Your routine as you prepare to go to work is leveled up with the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G’s dual stereo speakers and 300% Ultra Volume Mode. Listening to your favorite song or podcast to perk you up and power you through the day is made better with immersive and high-quality audio, setting you up perfectly for whatever comes your way.

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G’s 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate also offers stunning visuals even in bright sunlight, perfect when you want to scroll through your social media feed or read the latest news while commuting to work. Every detail on the screen is sharp, clear, and vivid, helping you kill time while in pesky traffic jams or during your down time.

A powerful camera system to capture everyday milestones

As you continue to live out the “work hard, play hard” mantra in your life, you’ll definitely need the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G to document precious memories. Equipped with a 50MP Sony LYT-600 Camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a feature typically reserved for higher-end smartphones, you can snap career milestones, personal wins, and even the most random moments that would be worthy of sharing on your social media profiles.

An absurdly entertaining device made for the hard-working, fun-seeking yuppie

Consider the OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G as more than just a smartphone, but more as an essential tool for you to thrive in your career and personal life. Its combination of long battery life, immersive entertainment, and reliable camera make it a good investment that you’ll maximize in no time.

The OnePlus Nord CE4 Lite 5G is priced at PHP 17,999 and comes in two cool and chic colorways - Super Silver and Mega Blue. You can purchase it from authorized OnePlus kiosks and OPPO stores nationwide, or via Shopee and Lazada where you can enjoy 0% interest installment via SPayLater and LazPayLater.

For more information, visit OnePlus Philippines’ official website or OnePlus Philippines’ official Facebook page.

Simplifying success: PSBank celebrates 64 years of excellence by helping Filipinos realize their financial goals


Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) marks its 64th anniversary with a continued commitment to delivering simple, reliable, and innovative banking services that help Filipinos achieve their financial goals, from growing their hard-earned money, to homeownership, vehicle financing, and more.

A Legacy of Financial Growth

PSBank’s sustained financial growth is fueled by strong loan demand and a customer-focused approach. In 2023, the bank achieved a record-high net income of PhP 4.53 billion, a 23% increase from the previous year. The first half of 2024 saw continued success, with net income reaching PhP 2.56 billion.[1] PSBank stands as the leading thrift bank in the Philippines in terms of total assets as of end-March 2024[2], further cementing its strong position in the consumer banking sector and maintaining leadership in the auto loan market among local thrift banks[3].

Simple Lang, Maaasahan: Simple and Fast Loan Approval Process

PSBank has been making strides in simplifying the loan application process, offering quick and easy approvals to customers looking to invest in homes and vehicles. PSBank aims to help Filipinos move forward with their financial goals without delay.

The Bank’s total gross loan portfolio registered a 10% growth or PhP 132 billion by the end of June 2024 versus last year's PhP 120 billion, with auto loan as its driver for growth. With its commitment to making loan approvals fast and easy, PSBank ensures that Filipinos can access their financial needs with minimal hassle. It also has a wide variety of home loan accredited developers and auto loan partners that aspiring homeowners and car buyers can choose from.

Simplified Banking Experience Through Innovation

Throughout its 64-year history, PSBank has consistently embraced innovation to meet the evolving needs of its customers. With the commitment to being always forward, over the years the Bank introduces products and services to make Filipinos banking transactions more straightforward and seamless.

PSBank Mobile app enables customers to manage accounts and make transactions anytime, anywhere. Its online account opening only requires one valid ID, a selfie, and a few taps on the app, one can open a Peso Savings account. Mobile Time Deposit placement, meanwhile, allows opening a time deposit via the app for a minimum placement of PhP10,000 and it can earn within 30, 60, or 90 days. No need to take a bank errand when depositing checks to have it cleared. Simply take a photo using PSBank Mobile and the check will automatically be deposited (for clients with at least PhP50,000 average balance).

Apart from the Bank’s mobile app bills payment service, in 2023, PSBank allowed payments via quick response (QR) code for billings issued by participating merchants using QR Ph, the country’s QR code standard. This enhancement not only leads to better and more effortless customer and merchant experiences, but also to greater usage of digital payments aligned with the BSP’s push for a cashless society.

The Bank’s ongoing digital transformation also includes cutting-edge services like cardless withdrawal wherein PSBank ATM cardholders can withdraw at any PSBank ATMs even without their cards; Queue Anywhere service allows clients to create a queue ticket for their bank transaction online to skip the wait time at lining up during their branch visit. For those traveling to the North or South of Luzon, one can load Autosweep and Easytrip Toll RFIDs real-time with PSBank’s Toll RFID reload feature.

In continuously stepping up its efforts to assure clients that there are systems in place in securing their accounts, clients can lock access to their accounts on platforms they don’t usually use, ensuring that access to their PSBank accounts is restricted to their preferred and regularly utilized channels. They also have the option to lock or unlock their ATM card, an extra layer of security against unauthorized transactions.

PSBank is always forward to simplifying every Filipino’s banking experience and to push it further, PSBank launched the "Ito Simple" campaign, reinforcing its commitment to simplicity and reliability. This campaign depicts the rawness of the daily routine and usual life struggles of most Filipinos--there may be the hard way of doing things, but there is also the PSBank way– providing accessible and straightforward financial solutions that meet their everyday needs.

For more information on PSBank’s products and services, visit psbank.com.ph or follow PSBank on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.


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[1] Philippine Savings Bank, PSBank hit record PhP2.56B Net Income in 1H2024, up 18%. https://www.psbank.com.ph/whats-new/

[2] Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Thrift Bank Total Assets as of 31 March 2024. https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Statistics/Financial%20Statements/Thrift/assets.aspx

[3] Philippine Savings Bank, 2023 Annual Report, p. 3 https://www.psbank.com.ph/media/7891/2023-psbank-annual-report.pdf

Remove unwanted elements with vivo V40's AI Erase feature


The newly launched vivo V40 has an AI Eraser feature that can easily eliminate unwanted objects or photobombers.

The feature was demonstrated at the vivo V40 Grand Launch held at Okada Manila with National Basketball Association (NBA) seven-time champion Robert Horry.

As a part of vivo’s partnership with the NBA, Horry was the event's star guest. At the AI Erase photowall, Horry posed for a picture and effortlessly removed a distracting blue platform from the shot using the feature.


To use vivo V40's AI Erase tool, simply encircle or tap on the elements you wish to remove. The feature ensures that every photo is flawless, putting the focus entirely on the subject.


The AI Erase is a game-changer for those who value picture-perfect moments, whether they’re capturing memories or sharing them on social media.

It takes convenience and creativity to the next level, helping users achieve a professional look in just a few taps.

Before vivo V40's AI Erase | Image courtesy of Christian Peña


After vivo V40's AI Erase | Image courtesy of Christian Peña

Pre-orders for the vivo V40 are available until September 27, offering customers an exclusive Php 2,000 discount when they reserve their phone with a Php 500 deposit.

Starting at Php 26,999, the vivo V40 will be ready for claiming from September 28 to October 6. Customers who pre-order will also receive a free vivo TWS 3e worth Php 1,999.

Visit any vivo store or shop online through the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada to secure your vivo V40 today.

Experience the power of pro-level portrait photography with vivo V40's ZEISS All Main Camera and the innovative AI Erase feature!


September 27, 2024

No Crying Wolfie: Grab Books and Goods Before Big Bad Wolf Bids Bacolod “Bye-bye!”

Calling all Wolfies of Bacolod! 

Big Bad Wolf is packing up and leaving town in a few days, so run now and get ready for one last feast at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod until September 29, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Don’t miss the chance to fill up on amazing finds and great deals!

Still on our spread are unbelievable discounts and special promos that you just can’t pass up! Over two million titles are still at 95% off, and attendees who will participate in Wolfie’s Challenge of the Day get a chance to win a P500 Book Voucher. What’s more is that Metrobank credit cardholders can take advantage of a 3-month 0% installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth a minimum of P3,000, as well as a free 1-pc Chicken McDo meal for purchases of the same minimum amount. Returning Wolfies can still get a 5% discount on purchases when they bring their old Big Bad Wolf tote bag from last year. Plus, there’s a chance to win over P50,000 worth of furnishings from Swedish furnishing brand IKEA.

If you think that’s all, you’re wrong! Big Bad Wolf also has a special treat that is  exclusively for students and teachers! Registered Big Bad Wolf members who are part of the academe get 5% off on English books when they wear their uniform or present their school ID at the cashier. No minimum spend needed. Details of the promo will be released on Big Bad Wolf’s social media pages, so keep an eye out!

Adding to the excitement are limited edition tote bags that you can get only until the last day of the Bacolod book sale, September 29. Grab one for yourself, bring along a friend, and check out the other awesome merch too!  

Are you searching for something that will renew your zest for life? Perhaps a guide to finding “the one”? Or maybe a storybook that will take the young ones on an incredible adventure? All these and more are treasures waiting for you. But wait! While you’re at it, you can share your well-loved treasures with someone else too. Donate a book or two at the Book Sale! Books will be donated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development for a farther reach to different communities.

In the spirit of giving, let’s not forget that it’s “-ber” season already and the holidays are fast approaching! Kick off your holiday gift shopping at the Big Bad Wolf Bacolod Book Sale! With amazing deals and a wide selection, you’re sure to bring home a perfect book for you.  

No, we’re not crying “wolf” with our deals and discounts, but you’re a Wolfie who might just cry if you miss the last few days of the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale. Hurry now because the books and the goods are hot and ready for the taking. Explore genres, hunt down the titles on your wishlist, and make the most out of our deals before they’re all gobbled up!

What are you waiting for? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at the Ground Floor, North Wing, SM City Bacolod, happening until September 29. Doors open from 10 AM to 10 PM. Gather your pack and catch the Big Bad Wolf before it goes! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram) 

IVO and Ace Hardware step up sustainability efforts


A leading name in water purification and a popular retail brand are renewing their commitment to a sustainable future by rolling out more eco-friendly water filters nationwide.

 Shaina Magdayao,  IVO’s ambassadress

IVO is expanding its availability to more than 100 Ace Hardware stores by the end of the year. This new partnership seeks to offer a simple and effective way to use less plastic.


What IVO offers

Good things really do come in small packages, like a water filter. IVO may be tiny, but it is packed with benefits. Backed by Japanese technology, IVO ensures that the tap water you drink is safe and fresh. It uses advanced technology such as the hollow membrane, used in dialysis to purify blood, to catch even the smallest contaminants.

In addition to its technology, IVO helps address plastic pollution, one of the largest contributors to climate change. According to Oceana, a marine protection group, two garbage trucks’ worth of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute. This staggering amount highlights the urgent need for sustainable products like IVO.

Each IVO filter can purify up to 1,500 liters, equivalent to 79 large water jugs or 5,000 small plastic bottles. IVO simplifies life by removing the need to constantly purchase water stored in bulky containers.

Additionally, IVO is practical for everyday use. It eliminates the need to buy and carry bulky water containers. By simply attaching the filter to their faucet, users enjoy a continuous supply of clean water.


Shared commitment

“The wider availability of our products is part of our ongoing commitment to provide alternative solutions for a sustainable future,” said Donna Yan, President of IVO Philippines. “Through our partnership with Ace Hardware, we hope to empower more households and businesses to take steps in minimizing their plastic footprint,” she added.

IVO and Ace Hardware launch at the SM Megamall, September 26, 2024.
From left: Ivan Manzo- Product Manager, IVO Joan Diego- Toray; Adrian Tan- Toray; Inna Alonso- Business Development Manager, IVO; Hiroyuki Iwaki- Toray; Donna Yan- President, IVO; Shaina Magdayao- IVO Ambassador; Mon Albert- Head of In-store Marketing, Ace Hardware; Jeremy Techico- Merchandising Division Head, Ace Hardware; Ronald Roldan- Head of Marketing, Ace Hardware; Edwin Ting - SVP Operations, Ace Hardware; Nicolas Dy - Deputy General Manager, Ace Hardware


ACE Hardware shares IVO’s passion for sustainable practices, as shown by its consistent support of green initiatives over the years.

Ace Hardware recently won two awards at the Retail Asia Awards 2024 for its best practices. The company was named ‘Retailer of the Year – Philippines’ and received ‘Customer Service Initiative of the Year.’

In 2022, the Retail Asia also recognized Ace Hardware for promoting sustainable products through the “Green Finds” program. The Retail Asia Awards recognize top innovations in the region's retail industry.

Impact of partnership


The collaboration goes beyond increased market visibility. Because of Ace Hardware’s wide reach, more Filipinos can benefit from high-quality, eco-friendly filter. The more Filipinos switch to sustainable solutions, the better it is for the Earth. The partnership is also a call to action – so that other businesses may follow suit and minimize their environmental footprint.




September 25, 2024

Global Award-winning HONOR Magic V3 is confirmed to arrive in PH!


HONOR is on top of the world, literally – participating in a Guinness World Record, HONOR Magic V3 is coming soon in PH

The leading global smart devices provider, HONOR, is launching the HONOR Magic V3 in the Philippines which is the brand’s thinnest foldable phone to date.

"We are excited to introduce the slimmer and stronger foldable phone of HONOR. Its premium look has more than meets the eye which we can’t wait to unveil soon," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines

In the recent Guinness world-breaking record of the American architect and card-stacking extraordinaire Bryan Berg, the HONOR Magic V3 successfully sat on top of the tallest house of cards in 8 hours, and at 54 levels high.

Official Photos of Bryan Berg from the Guinness World Records


The HONOR Magic V3 is built with AI, backed up by Google and has the highest water durability rating. It has an improved processor compared to HONOR Magic V2 and is ever stronger with titanium hinge for seamless folds.

The eagerly awaited HONOR Magic V3 will be fully unveiled soon, presenting its industry-leading specifications. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting launch!

For more updates on the spectacular specs of the HONOR Magic V3, follow through HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Pru Life UK wins Four Golden Arrow award for corporate governance excellence


Strengthening leadership in the insurance sector by upholding regulatory standards

Demonstrating its steadfast commitment to transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance, Pru Life UK received the coveted Four Golden Arrow award from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) at the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) Golden Arrow Awards recognition ceremony held on 19 September in Pasay City. The leading life insurer earned 119 points in the 2023 ACGS assessment, a marked improvement from the company’s scores in previous years.

In photo: Atty. Paul Mandal, Pru Life UK Senior Vice President & Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer (1st from right), together with independent board member Ida Tiongson (3rd from left), received the four Golden Arrows recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors during the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard Golden Arrow Awards.

To encourage companies to exceed local regulatory requirements and adopt higher standards of corporate governance, the ACGS evaluates companies on key governance aspects, including shareholder rights, fair treatment, stakeholder engagement, transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of the board, while benchmarking against international best practices.

Accepting the award for the company is Chief Legal, Government Relations, and Sustainability Officer, Atty. Paul Mandal, who called the recognition “a proud moment” for Pru Life UK.

“[This recognition] reflects our unwavering commitment to corporate governance,” Atty. Mandal explained. “As we continue to align with regulatory standards, we are excited to lead the way in promoting transparency and inclusivity in the Philippine insurance sector, ensuring we deliver the best possible service to our customers,” he added.

Additionally, Pru Life UK strives to make insurance more inclusive by constantly innovating and developing new products to serve the financial protection needs of all Filipinos. A new area that the company is currently exploring is Takaful or Islamic insurance, which is aligned with the priorities of the Insurance Commission (IC) and the national government. Pru Life UK targets to become the first insurer to launch Takaful in the country, reinforcing its commitment to address the diverse needs of Muslim and non-Muslim Filipinos alike.

Pru Life UK has been a consistent Golden Arrow awardee for eight consecutive years. This achievement underscores the company’s proactive response to evolving regulatory standards set by the IC.

As Pru Life UK celebrates this recognition, the company reaffirms its pledge to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance and regulatory compliance, ensuring it remains a trusted and responsible partner for its policyholders, shareholders, and the communities it serves.