vivo, UA&P inspire young athletes in Quezon City

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The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) Community Outreach Program, with the invaluable support of vivo and the Quezon City local government unit and Councilor Vito Sotto Generoso’s office, hosted a heartwarming Football Champions League that showcased the talents and enthusiasm of young athletes from the local community.

On November 30, 2024, children from 10 barangays in Quezon City participated in a mini-tournament featuring mixed teams, as well as age divisions from under 10 to under 14 years old.

UA&P Men's Futsal Team Coach Christian Dominguez, who initiated the outreach, shared that the program began before the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We gathered the kids from our neighborhood so they could have fun, meet each other, and eventually, I suggested that we turn it into a community outreach program. After the pandemic, we resumed the program and were fortunate enough to partner with an LGU to help fund and support our efforts,” Dominguez shared.

https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7443994863923760385

Dominguez added that the program’s long-term goal is to build a competitive team in Culiat that could eventually represent the city at the Palarong Pambansa. He also expressed gratitude for vivo’s ongoing support as vivo has played an instrumental role in the program's growth by providing the necessary resources and support.

Glenn Chiu, Assistant Brand Marketing Director at vivo Philippines, said, “At vivo, we’re proud to support programs like this that nurture young talent and promote active lifestyles. Our partnership with UA&P allows us to inspire the next generation of athletes.”

The success of the event highlighted the power of community and sports in shaping the future of young athletes. With vivo’s continued support, the program will no doubt inspire even more local youth to engage in sports, foster teamwork, and pursue excellence in all aspects of their lives.

Follow vivo on its Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to learn more about its ongoing commitment to empowering communities and promoting an active lifestyle.

The Secret to Being A Pro: Unahin ang Matibay na Immune System

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Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) helps strengthen your immune system through its ZincPlus Technology

There are a lot more factors to consider when it comes to the regression of our immune system than previously thought. While it was established that those with chronic illnesses1 like diabetes and hypertension are considered immunocompromised, or more susceptible to infections, it turns out that everyone can experience a natural decline in immunity after around age 20.

T cells are a type of white blood cells that help your immune system fight infection and protect you from diseases. Studies show that the body releases significantly fewer T cells after teenage years2, leading to a weaker immune response. Couple this with many bad lifestyle habits of some young adults, such as the lack of sleep3 for the overworked, and the factors start to compound. 

To help some young adults, the immunocompromised, and everyone in between to keep powering through, researchers found ways to help bolster the immune system4. In one study, they circled back to the essential functions of Vitamin C and Zinc in immune response. The researchers underscored that a combination of both works as an effective measure5, which Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) provides.

With proper diet, regular exercise, and at least seven hours of sleep every night6, Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) helps strengthen the immune system and may help the body against sickness. It is the only vitamin supplement for adults with ZincPlus® Technology, designed to ensure the stabilized combination and absorption of Vitamin C and Zinc.

While Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals and Zinc is crucial for properly functioning immune cells, combining the two can be tricky. Zinc reduces the potency of Vitamin C as its presence degrades Ascorbic Acid, reducing efficacy even before consumption. Through ZincPlus® Technology, however, Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) helps deliver the best of both worlds.

According to R&D organization Synapse, Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) is the first and only stable Vitamin C plus Zinc swallow tablet that consistently passes United States Pharmacopeia (USP) dissolution tests, ensuring optimal absorption and efficacy of Vitamin C and Zinc. It also features no discoloration, no bloating, low sodium content, and is packed in single-serve flex foil for stability. A pro packaging and efficacy that befits a true pro.

Remember that being young does not put you above infections and being immunocompromised should not stop you from living your best life. Para sa malakas na immune system at overall health mo, #MagtiwalaSaPRO—magtiwala sa #ImmunPro®!

For more information, visit https://www.unilab.com.ph/products/ImmunPro. Follow Sodium Ascorbate + Zinc (ImmunPro®) on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/UnilabPHImmunPro and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/immunproofficial/.

1 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8428766/ 

2 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24630-t-cells

3 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/356352778_Role_of_sleep_deprivation_in_immune-related_disease_risk_and_outcomes 

4 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17922955/ 

5 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22429343/ 

6 https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/how-much-sleep 

Need Ideas? Here’s the Ultimate Techie Gift Guide for the Holiday Season

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As the holiday season rolls around, the dilemma of gift-giving is once again upon us. But fear not, this year you can “wow” your techie loved ones with gifts that will upgrade their connected lifestyle. We’ve rounded up the ultimate gift ideas to suit every tech-lover’s taste.

Snag any of these perfect gift picks for your tech-loving friends and family this season of giving.

1. For the Gamer: Supercharged Gaming

Serious gamers know that a strong network connection can be the difference between victory and defeat. Gift your gaming loved ones the gift of lag-free gaming with TP-Link’s TRI-BAND Archer GE800 router. This gaming router features Wi-Fi 7 technology, reaching speeds of up to 19Gbps perfect for intense gaming. It features two 10G WAN/LAN ports and four 2.5Gbps LAN ports for ultra-fast wired connections, while game acceleration minimizes lag and boosts speed. The intuitive game panel offers real-time network insights and customizable RGB settings.

TP-Link Archer GE800

Not only does this router provide insane speeds, its high-performance launch pad appearance, seamless multicolor lighting, and optimized 8-antenna layout ensures secure connection and vibrant atmosphere.

WHERE TO GET IT: The Archer GE800 (PHP 35,990) is available on Shopee and Lazada.

2. For the Household Professional: Powerful, Uninterrupted Connection

This holiday season, help work-from-home professionals enhance their network connection with Wi-Fi routers from TP-Link. The Wi-Fi 7 QUAD-BAND Archer BE900 router comes with advanced features and delivers speeds of up to 24.4 Gbps, ideal for 4K or 8K streaming and rapid downloads. It boasts two 10G ports to ensure flexibility and improved throughput. The router has 12 antennas and beamforming technology to optimize signal strength and coverage, reducing interference and providing reliable connections even across large homes. The router is designed with an LED display for managing settings and displaying visual information.

TP-Link Archer BE900

Two other impressive router options are the Archer NX200 and the Archer AX12 routers. The Archer NX200 is a 5G router that optimized mobile network speeds, offering up to 4.67Gbps on 5G for smooth streaming, file downloads, and video conferencing. It provides AX1800 Wi-Fi 6 dual-band speeds, suitable for most modern households. The “plug-and-play” setup allows users to get started quickly with just a SIM card. The Archer AX12, also equipped with Wi-Fi 6 technology, targets greater capacity, reduces network congestion, and delivers 1.5Gbps speeds for faster downloads and streaming. It also supports OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology for better network performance across multiple devices. Its beamforming technology ensures reliable signal coverage, while the Target Wake Time feature extends device battery life.

TP-Link Archer NX200

TP-Link Archer AX12

The three routers may differ in strengths and features, but all three deliver faster speeds, better coverage, and superior network performance.

WHERE TO GET IT: The Archer BE900 is available for PHP 41,990 on Shopee and Lazada. The Archer NX200 is available for PHP 19,990 on Shopee and Lazada, while the Archer AX12 is available for PHP 1,990 on Shopee and Lazada.

3. For the Whole Family: Unstoppable Wi-Fi Coverage in Every Corner

Treat your loved ones in a techie household to the ultimate network upgrade with mesh systems. Now, friends and family living in large houses or multi-story spaces can say goodbye to dead zones with TP-Link’s mesh systems, the Deco BE85 and the Deco X50, designed to deliver seamless coverage across the home.

The Wi-Fi 7 Deco BE85 mesh offers an exceptional 22Gbps total throughput on 6GHz, 5GHz, and 2.4GHz bands. Perfect for large households or offices, it ensures that every device, from streaming services to gaming consoles gets ultra-fast internet without slowdowns. The system features Wireless and Wired Combined Backhaul and Multi-Link Operation (MLO) technology for improved data throughput, reduced latency, and enhanced reliability by enabling simultaneous transmissions across multiple bands and channels. The 320MHz channels double its bandwidth for more simultaneous transmissions at top speeds.

TP-Link Deco BE85

The Dual-Band Wi-Fi 6 Deco X50 mesh system, on the other hand, is a more accessible yet high-performance option. It delivers speeds of up to 3,0Gbps and covers up to 6,500 sq. ft. (3-pack). With Wi-Fi 6 technology, it reduces network congestion and boosts efficiency. It has 4 streams, providing faster speeds with less lag, especially on the 5GHz band and the 2.4GHz band. This mesh system is perfect for households with moderate internet usage, providing gigabit wired speeds through its three Gigabit ports for high-speed online activities. Both mesh systems support the TP-Link HomeShield feature for an added layer of network security and parental controls. These mesh systems are easily set-up, making it a great gift for techie loved ones looking for a hassle-free, customizable Wi-Fi experience.

TP-Link Deco X50

WHERE TO GET IT: The Deco BE85 (2-pack)  is available for PHP 59,990 on Shopee and Lazada. The Deco X50 is available for PHP 4,990 on Shopee and Lazada.

4. For Security Buffs: Watch Over What Matters Most

Help techie loved ones keep their homes secure with Tapo C200C and C500 Wi-Fi cameras, which offer powerful features designed to enhance home security and provide peace of mind for tech-loving, security buffs in the family. The Tapo C200C delivers 1080p high-definition video, with 9x digital zoom, allowing users to capture detailed footage. It offers 360° horizontal and 114° vertical pan-and-tilt capabilities for complete coverage of any indoor space. With advanced night vision reaching up to 40ft., it ensures round-the-clock monitoring even in low-light conditions. Its motion detection technology sends instant alerts when movement is detected, while the two-way audio allows users to communicate with household members or deter intruders.

Tapo C200C

On the other hand, the Tapo C500 delivers 1080p full HD video.nIt supports a color night vision up to 30 meters away, displaying more details even in low-light settings. With smart mode, the live feed turns on color night vision once a person is detected on the camera. The C500 features 360° horizontal and 130° vertical coverage with the smart AI detection, which accurately identifies people, reducing false alerts and sending real-time notification through the Tapo app. Perfect for outdoor use, the C500 comes with IP65 weatherproofing, ensuring it performs well in rain, dust, and heat.

Tapo C500

For those looking for an outdoor security camera solution, the Tapo C425 KIT is another ideal option. Designed for long-term performance in outdoor settings, this features 2K QHD live view for clear, sharp images, and color night vision to ensure vivid details even at night. This comes with an uninterrupted power supply, which is supported by 45 minutes of daily sunlight from the solar panel. This eliminates the need for constant battery charging. The C425 KIT also offers AI detection, weather proof IP66 rating, secure local and cloud storage, and long-lasting battery life that lasts up to 300 days on a single charge. Whether it’s for indoor or outdoor use, these Wi-Fi cameras ensure enhanced safety and easy integration into smart homes, making them a thoughtful and practical gift this holiday season.

Tapo C425 KIT

WHERE TO GET IT: The Tapo C200C is available for PHP 899 on Shopee and Lazada. The C500 is available for PHP 2,090 on Shopee and Lazada. The C425 KIT is available for PHP 6,490 on Shopee and Lazada.

5. For the Smart-Home Enthusiast: Seamless, Smart Control

Give techie loved ones the gift of smart automation with the Tapo P110M Smart Plug and the Tapo L530E Multi-Color Light Bulb. These smart-home devices make any home more efficient and stylish. The Tapo P110M smart plug offers advanced features such as energy monitoring, which tracks power usage and estimates electricity bills, perfect for the energy-conscious user. Its compact design ensures it doesn’t block adjacent outlets, while features like remorse control, voice compatibility, and scheduling enable effortless management of connected devices. Additional features like auto-off and Away Mode add convenience and security by automatically turning devices on or off, creating the appearance of someone being home to deter home intruders.

Tapo P110M

The Tapo L530E multi-color light bulb adds a splash of personality and ambiance to any space. With 16 million color hue options, adjustable brightness, and a 60-watt equivalent LED output, users can customize lighting to fit any mood or activity. Its features include schedule and timer settings, Sunrise and Sunset modes, and the ability to save favorite lighting configurations for quick use. It can be accessed remotely through the Tapo app, and features an Away Mode for added security. It can also restore the last light state after power interruptions. Both the smart plug and the multi-color light bulb integrate seamlessly with home ecosystems, offering voice control via Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, or Google Assistant.

Tapo L530E

These smart home devices make practical holiday gifts, combining advanced technology with user-friendly functionality. They fit seamlessly into any home, delighting anyone who unwraps them this season.

WHERE TO GET IT: The Tapo P110M is available for PHP 539 on Shopee and Lazada. The Tapo L530E is available for PHP 429 on Shopee and Lazada.

Wrap It Up

From fast gaming routers to smart home upgrades and home security systems, these tech gifts are the perfect way to level up your loved ones’ holiday season. These devices will delight any tech enthusiast. Best of all, these TP-Link and Tapo devices are available on Shopee and Lazada for easy holiday shopping. Get your techie loved ones a special treat this holiday season!

Visit TP-Link’s website to find out more about these devices. Follow TP-Link on social media (Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok)  page to stay updated on the latest developments and product launches.

COCONUTPhilippines: Empowering Coconut Farmers and Entrepreneurs Through the CFIDP

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The Department of Trade and Industry-Bureau of Marketing and Development Promotions Office (DTI-BMDPO), in collaboration with key government agencies, proudly presents the first-ever COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair (CTF), scheduled from December 2 to 4, 2024, at Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

This landmark event is a vital component of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), guided by Republic Act (RA) 11524, also known as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund Act. The CFIDP reaffirms the government’s dedication to supporting coconut farmers, especially the marginalized, by creating income opportunities, reducing poverty, and fostering social equity. Serving as a blueprint for sustainable development, the CFIDP emphasizes improving the coconut industry’s competitiveness, driving inclusive growth, and expanding market potential for Philippine coconut products.

A Platform for Growth and Innovation

The COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair is designed to be a premier platform for showcasing the vast potential of Philippine coconut-based products while exploring innovative industry directions. The event will gather farmers, MSMEs, institutional buyers, and key stakeholders for sourcing opportunities, order-taking, and collaborative discussions. It will also feature product launches, market testing, benchmarking, business matching, negotiations, and direct selling.

Notable highlights include the launch of the COCONUTPhilippines brand and the unveiling of the COCOMania mascots.

Strengthening the Coconut Industry

The DTI demonstrates its commitment to the CFIDP through the implementation of research, marketing, and market promotion sub-programs. With the support of the BMDPO, the agency has successfully integrated coconut-based products through special settings in flagship trade shows such as the National Food Fair and National Trade Fair, creating opportunities for coconut farmers to connect with consumers and business partners while enhancing public awareness of these products in the domestic market.

The COCONUT Philippines Trade Fair, the first stand-alone event of its kind, was developed in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and 14 inter-agency stakeholders. The fair celebrates and empowers coconut farmers across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, showcasing the efforts of 90 exhibitors who will present a diverse array of food and non-food coconut products for both local and international markets.

In line with the ongoing promotional campaign, a domestic market research initiative is also underway. This initiative aims to assess demand and consumption trends for coconut-based products, particularly in the food and beverage sectors. It also seeks to provide insights into economic factors driving consumer behavior and identify growth opportunities that directly benefit program beneficiaries.

Creating Awareness Through Collaboration

The CFIDP is a collaborative effort led by 14 government agencies, each playing a critical role in the development of the coconut industry:

·      Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA): Lead agency for program implementation.

·      Department of Agriculture (DA): Focuses on intercropping, livestock integration, and farm diversification.

·      Department of Trade and Industry (DTI): Promotes enterprises, product development, and market access.

·      Department of Science and Technology (DOST): Provides research and technology support for improved coconut varieties and innovations.

·      Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH): Enhances farm-to-market infrastructure.

·      Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA): Offers skills training for farmers and industry workers.

·      Commission on Higher Education (CHED): Supports educational programs related to coconut agriculture.

·      Cooperative Development Authority (CDA): Strengthens coconut farmer cooperatives.

·      Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP): Provides credit and financial support.

·      Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP): Finances industry projects.

·      Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC): Protects farmers with crop insurance.

·      Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech): Promotes post-harvest technologies.

·      Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI): Supports livestock integration and animal health.

·      Agricultural Training Institute (ATI): Conducts training on good agricultural practices.

 

Event Details

·      Dates: December 2–4, 2024

·      Venue: Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City

·      Admission: Free and open to the public

Be part of the movement to elevate the Philippine coconut industry at the 1st COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair and experience the future of coconut innovation.

For more information about DTI initiatives supporting MSMEs, follow DTI-BMDPO on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For inquiries, email BMDPO Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.

Abbott Continues its Fight Against Malnutrition in the Philippines by Partnering with Rotary Club of Manila

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•  Abbott and Rotary Club of Manila (RCM) collaborate to help address malnutrition in underserved children
•  Abbott will provide screening tools, educational resources and training to RCM volunteers to help identify, address and prevent malnutrition risk in children

Abbott announced a collaboration with Rotary Club of Manila (RCM) to continue its fight against malnutrition in the Philippines. Through the collaboration with RCM, Abbott will contribute tools and trainings to help RCM volunteers—including high school and college students, social workers and teachers — better respond to the critical nutrition needs in their communities and connect children at risk of stunting to resources in the healthcare system.

Abbott and the Rotary Club of Manila joined forces during the MOA signing event held at the Manila Polo Club to solidify their partnership to beat malnutrition. The event was led by RCM President Jujut Enriquez (seated left) and Abbott General Manager Mike Escobar (seated right). Also present were (standing, left to right) Jason Bogovich, Co-chairman of the disease prevention and treatment committee and sergeant at Arms, Dr John Cutter, Co-chairman of the disease prevention and treatment committee and deputy sergeant at Arms, Dr. Jose Dimaano, nutrition medical director for Asia Pacific at Abbott, and Sharon Mak, director of public Affairs for Asia Pacific at Abbott. Through this collaboration, Abbott will train RCM volunteers on how screening can address malnutrition and childhood stunting.

In the Philippines, 1 in 4 children under five years of age are stunted or short for their age.1 Stunting – a prevalent form of malnutrition – can have long-term effects on cognitive development, school achievement and economic productivity in adulthood. Addressing malnutrition starts with regular screening and early identification of children at risk.

''Fighting malnutrition requires joint efforts between the public and private sectors, and local institutions that support the communities, such as the alliance that we have signed today,'' said Eduardo 'Jujut' V. Enriquez III, president of Rotary Club of Manila. ''By leveraging our collective resources, we can foster healthier communities and help detect children at risk for malnutrition early so they can get access to important nutrition care.''

Taking a different approach

This partnership, a part of the Abbott Center for Malnutrition Solutions (ACMS) initiative, empowers communities in the Philippines to improve children's health through early malnutrition detection and timely nutrition intervention, with a focus on reducing and preventing childhood stunting.

Dr. Jose Dimaano, nutrition medical director for Asia Pacific at Abbott, and Sharon Mak, director of public affairs for Asia Pacific at Abbott, led the Rotary Club of Manila Volunteer's Training on Malnutrition Screening & Education. The training, which included student and teacher volunteers, focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively screen for malnutrition and how to educate their communities.

''Good nutrition plays a critical role in addressing malnutrition, which is why Abbott has focused on improving nutrition for decades through our innovations and by applying our science and expertise in collaboration with others,'' said Dr Jose Dimaano, nutrition medical director for Asia Pacific at Abbott. ''Through this partnership, we are empowering RCM volunteers with simple tools to solve one of the world’s biggest health challenges.''

Abbott will equip and train RCM volunteers to use screening tools, including height charts and the Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) z-score tape, to help identify malnutrition risk in children starting with two barangays in Metro Manila. The MUAC z-score tape is a simple device that resembles a traditional tape measure and includes age-specific, color-coded indicators that indicate if a child is at risk of malnutrition.

During the training, volunteers had the opportunity to try hands-on use of MUAC (mid-upper arm circumference) tape, a key tool in malnutrition screening. This session highlighted the importance of using simple tools like height charts and MUAC z-score tape to identify children at risk of stunting and malnutrition, marking a crucial first step in addressing this critical health issue.

Through training RCM volunteers, Abbott is building the capacity to screen for and identify malnutrition at the community or household level, helping to ease some of the burden on healthcare systems. This initiative empowers families to identify children at risk so they can connect with healthcare professionals for appropriate support.

Abbott and RCM will also educate families and children about the nutritional value of common foods and guide them toward making healthier choices. The curriculum will include practical lessons on meal planning, understanding food labels, and preparing affordable, nutritious meals using locally available ingredients.

Dr. Jose Rodolfo Dimaano, Jr., nutrition medical director for Asia Pacific at Abbott, demonstrates how to properly use a growth chart. As part of the Rotary Club of Manila (RCM) and Abbott’s partnership to fight malnutrition, Abbott will provide tools, materials, and training to RCM volunteers to help identify children at risk of malnutrition and stunting, as well as deliver appropriate nutrition interventions.

This collaboration builds on Abbott’s Growth Watch initiative, which aims to identify childhood malnutrition and stunting early through growth monitoring and nutrition education. Since 2021, the Growth Watch initiative has measured and educated more than 161,000 children and families. This work will also contribute to Abbott’s 2030 Sustainability Plan ambition to transform care for malnutrition, chronic disease and infectious diseases, with a goal to improve the lives of 3 billion people a year by decade’s end.

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About Rotary Club of Manila

Rotary is a global network of more than 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. The Rotary Club of Manila is the first and oldest Rotary Club in Asia.

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 114,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com and on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Discovery Resorts Brightens the Holidays with Enchanting Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

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The Discovery Resorts marked the start of its festive season with captivating Christmas tree lighting ceremonies across its properties. With unique themes and heartfelt celebrations, each event showcased the joy and togetherness that define the holidays.

Under the theme "Whimsical Holidays," Discovery Boracay and Discovery Coron brought to life a Polynesian-inspired celebration filled with vibrant performances and heartfelt community-driven initiatives. Infused with the spirit of the sea, the warmth of the islands, and the magic of the holidays, the Tree Lighting ceremony began with a captivating tale. The storytelling wove a narrative of how all things return to nature, celebrating the timeless cycle of life. This enchanting theme was reflected in the Christmas tree itself, adorned with delicate blooms and vibrant flowers that symbolized growth, renewal, and the beauty of nature's resilience. It stood as a radiant centerpiece, blooming with the magic, wonder, and joy of the season.

Tree Lighting Ceremony at Discovery Boracay with Bogart and Bella, the resort mascots.

Discovery Boracay Christmas Tree.

Ati Choir.

As we lit the tree of Discovery Boracay, the air was filled with heartwarming performances from the employees and the Boracay Ati Choir. Established in 2005, the Boracay Ati Choir was born from a shared passion for music and faith. Encouraged to join the choir of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish in Balabag, young members of the Ati community—ranging from primary students to high schoolers—have carried on this heartfelt tradition ever since. The choir has become a symbol of cultural pride and youthful artistry showcasing their vibrant spirit.

Adding a personal touch to their performances, they even sing original songs composed by a talented member of their community, sharing stories and melodies unique to their heritage.

A Festive Light Display at Balay Discovery, the staff house of Discovery Boracay.

The celebration continued at Discovery Balay, the staff house grounds of Discovery Boracay, adorned with festive lights and vibrant Christmas elements for the Boracay community to enjoy. Special guests during the activity included Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista, Rev. Fr. Francis Bolivar, and Re. Fr. Jogie Esmeralda.

Timmy + George with Discovery Coron staff.

Meanwhile, guests at Discovery Coron experienced a magical evening of festive tunes, Polynesian-inspired dances, and a sumptuous buffet dinner at Firefish Restaurant. Celebrity guest Sam Pinto and her daughter Mia joined the celebration, adding a special touch to the tree-lighting festivities. Live music by the Center Stage Band carried the evening into an atmosphere of joyful cheer.

Discovery Samal’s Whimsical Dreamland.

In Davao, Discovery Samal invites you to step into a Whimsical Dreamland—a breathtaking transformation that turns the resort into a spectacular holiday escape filled with enchantment and joy.

The event kicked off with a grand parade led by a Drum and Lyre ensemble, with performers in colorful costumes bringing the carnival to life. Guests were treated to stirring musical performances by multi-gold medalists JETZ Tacsanan and Alexis Ritz Labaya by Muzic’sKool. At the heart of this magical celebration is a life-sized gingerbread castle, surrounded by dazzling installations that serve as the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable holiday memories.

The spirit of a carnival comes alive as Discovery Samal brings people together to share laughter, celebrate life, and bask in the joy of the holidays. With a sense of wonder and playfulness, Whimsical Dreamland is Discovery Samal’s way of embracing the festive season.

The lighting of the tree was accompanied with an array of delectable holiday treats and enchanting Christmas-inspired culinary delights, the evening unfolded like a dream. A spellbinding musical performance set the tone, culminating in a magical journey through Discovery Samal's Whimsical Dreamland. At its heart stood a breathtaking life-sized gingerbread castle, surrounded by festive installations that created the perfect backdrop for capturing the wonder of the holiday season.

The ceremonies celebrated not just the joy of the season but also the values of kindness and giving back. Each property featured unique entertainment, local partnerships, and opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas.

Discovery Boracay, Discovery Coron, and Discovery Samal are offering a variety of holiday packages to make this season even more special for you and your family.

For more information, visit each property’s websites: discoveryboracay.com for Discovery Boracay, discoverycoron.com for Discovery Coron, and discoverysamal.com for Discovery Samal.

Teleperformance advocates children’s rights, supports anti-child labor program in partnership with Philippine Labor Department

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As part of its firm commitment in upholding Human Rights across the communities where it operates, Teleperformance (TP), global leader in digital business services, partnered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to support over 50 families in northern Mindanao, Philippines as part of Project Angel Tree.

Teleperformance in the Philippines, in support of Project Angel Tree, contributed essential items to children and their families in Barangay Mambuaya, Cagayan de Oro City.

Project Angel Tree, an initiative dedicated to preventing and eliminating child labor, provides critical aid to families in Barangay Mambuaya, Cagayan de Oro City. TP contributed essential items, such as school supplies, hygiene kits, and food.

The recent community event also held discussions to raise awareness on the basic rights of children and the protection of minors from exploitative labor.

Chief Executive Officer Rahul Jolly continues to support the program’s goal to end child labor, stating, “We at Teleperformance recognize our role in combatting exploitation wherever it may be. Child labor is a persistent and devastating problem in society, and we each have a role to play in ending it. Teleperformance in the Philippines is proud to support programs that align with our values. We are honored to be part of Project Angel Tree.”

“Helping our communities goes a long way, even in our smallest gestures,” added Chief People Officer Jeffrey Johnson. “Efforts such as Project Angel Tree highlight the impact of these efforts on the lives of the future generation. We are thankful to DOLE for the opportunity to help the children, both in the long- and short-term.”

The event culminated with the awarding of a Certificate of Appreciation from DOLE Region X (Cagayan de Oro Field Office) to Teleperformance Philippines, recognizing the company’s contributions to supporting children and families in Barangay Mambuaya.

The initiative is part of Teleperformance Philippines’ broader commitment to corporate social responsibility through the Citizen of the World (COTW), its corporate social responsibility arm. Earlier this year, COTW Philippines supported Kythe Foundation’s Summer Nature Camp 2024 for children with chronic illnesses.

For more information about Teleperformance and its commitment to various initiatives, please visit www.teleperformance.com.

Smart rolls out TNT 5G Max in Taguig

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PLDT’s wireless subsidiary, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), is upgrading the 5G experience for ordinary Filipinos through its value mobile brand, TNT, with the launch of 5G Max—a boosted network experience that delivers faster speeds and more reliable connectivity for subscribers.

A big step toward TNT’s thrust to bring the many benefits of 5G technology to the masses, the TNT 5G Max experience is initially available at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig and its surrounding areas - a bustling area of people from all walks of life, including office workers, college students, entrepreneurs, and tourists, among others.

Powered by TNT 5G Max, subscribers can experience seamless connectivity as they go about their daily online activities like upload and download heavy files instantly, staying active on their productivity apps, streaming their favorite shows in ultra-high definition without interruption,and play high-bandwidth mobile games without lag.

“Ramdam ko talaga ang bilis ng TNT sa Taguig kasi di ako nag-la-lag sa app. Mahalaga ito sa trabaho ko bilang rider para tuluy-tuloy ang biyahe," said Aaron Blanquera, 39, a ride-hailing app driver who has been a TNT user for two years now.

"Mahilig talaga ako mag-FB at TikTok tuwing break, at napansin ko na mas mabilis nang mag-load ang videos sa phone ko," said Krissian Levi Sindico, 28, who works in a BPO company in Taguig and has been a TNT user for five years.

“TNT 5G Max strengthens our mission of bringing ‘saya’ to the masses powered by the latest innovations. We look forward to rolling this out to more areas across the country so more Filipinos can benefit from our superior 5G experience. It will be simply amazing,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, TNT Group Head.

TNT 5G Panalo Phone for only P3,990

To make the 5G Max experience even more accessible, TNT unveiled the new TNT 5G Panalo Phone, the most affordable 5G smartphone in the Philippines for only Php3,990.

Now available at accredited retailers nationwide, the TNT 5G Panalo Phone is compatible with 5G to provide users with faster speeds, more reliable connectivity, and better quality of service.

Built for everyday use, the TNT 5G Panalo Phone runs on Android 14 and is powered by an Octa-Core processor with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage, expandable up to 512GB, ensuring smooth multitasking for work, school, and entertainment. It also has a 13MP rear camera and 5MP front camera for taking sharp photos and clear video calls.

The TNT 5G Panalo Phone is perfect for Filipinos from all walks of life to enjoy a faster, smoother, and reliable mobile experience at a very affordable price. Young professionals, call center agents, riders, and college students can rely on it to stay productive and entertained - from streaming high-resolution movies and series on the go, navigating online maps in real time, or attending online classes and virtual meetings.

Best Paired with Saya All 99 and Unli 5G 75

Subscribers who plan to purchase the TNT 5G Panalo Phone can unlock its full potential by topping up with TNT’s Saya All 99 or Unli 5G 75 promos.

With TNT Saya All 99, users get 6GB of open access data, unlimited access to Facebook, Messenger, TikTok, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, as well as unlimited calls and texts to all networks, all valid for 7 days.

Subscribers can also rely on TNT Unli 5G 75, which offers unlimited 5G data for 1 day.

TNT is powered by Smart’s award-winning mobile network.To learn more about TNT’s affordable offers, follow TNT’s official accounts on Facebook, X, YouTube, and TikTok..#