April 30, 2025

National Parks Development Committee presents 'ADHIKA' on May 11


The National Parks Development Committee, as part of the Concert at the Park series, in celebration of the founding anniversary of the Department of Tourism proudly presents 'ADHIKA'  featuring the PHILIPPINE BARANGGAY FOLK DANCE TROUPE, Manila and the PARANGAL DANCE COMPANY, California, USA on May 11, 2025 Sunday 5:30 pm at the Open Air Auditorium, Rizal Park, Luneta, Manila. This is open to the public. Free Admission.

ADHIKA will also feature Culture Bearers - Kalinga: Ophelia Grace Addom; Karl Duane Cusay Bawer Maguindanaon: Faisal Monal Tausug: Airia Askalani Obeso

Co-directed by Ronnie del Barrio and Eric Solano, ADHIKA is a stirring, vibrant collaboration of Philippine indigenous and traditional dance bringing to life the rhythms, rituals, and stories that shape the Filipino spirit.

ADHIKA is a living tribute to the Philippines’ cultural roots. From Luzon’s festive movements to the sacred traditions of Mindanao and Sulu, each piece invites you to journey through the diverse landscapes of Filipino identity.

More than a performance, ADHIKA is a call to remember and celebrate. It honors cultural bearers, inspires new generations, and keeps the legacy of indigenous traditions alive — vibrant, relevant, and proudly Filipino.

The Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe (PB) began as a mixed dance class in the 1940s at Philippine Normal College (now Philippine Normal University) under founder and creative director Dr. Paz Cielo Angeles-Belmonte – and thus the longest-running Philippine cultural performance troupe of its kind. With a rich history of training generations of dance educators and performers, the troupe honors Philippine tribal and traditional dance through music, song, and dance. 

Now led by Creative Director Ronnie del Barrio, PB has performed extensively in the Philippines, ASEAN, and worldwide over the past seven decades. The troupe offers annual workshops, events, and stage productions, continuing its mission to celebrate and preserve Filipino cultural heritage.

The Parangal Dance Company is a non-profit, Filipino Folk Dance & Music Company based in the unceded Ramaytush Ohlone Territory, also known as San Francisco in California, USA. Parangal’s mission is to give tribute to Philippine heritage by preserving and promoting ethnic attire, music, and dance through research, workshops, and performances.

Parangal aims to serve as a bridge, inspiring and connecting Filipinos in diaspora to their roots to give them a sense of pride and identity, while educating diverse communities to foster awareness and appreciation of Philippine culture.

#ADHIKA2025
#ADHIKADance
#ADHIKAPerformance
#NationalParksDevelopmentCommittee
#PhilippineBaranggayFolkDanceTroupe
#PBFDTSince1946
#ParangalDanceCompany




For further inquiries contact: Ronnie del Barrio +639455572161

April 28, 2025

Enjoy an uninterrupted summer with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

In a busy summer season where you are almost always on the go, you need a smartphone like the OPPO A5 Pro 5G to keep up with all your activities in life. The most durable and strongest A Series from OPPO is built for the unpredictable and everything in between.

Strong for the summer and all season

Life moves fast and sometimes your phone takes a hit for it. Whether it slips out of your pocket while rushing to get on a jeepney or gets run over by a motorcycle, its reinforced interior keeps it protected. Built with Military-Grade Shock Resistance, the OPPO A5 Pro 5G can survive drops from up to five meters.

Power that keeps you going, no matter the grind

For those long days that blend work, study, and play, a smartphone with a battery that gets drained halfway through isn’t an option. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G’s massive 5,800mAh battery will keep you powered for as long as 35.7 hours, enabling you to study on-the-go or scroll mindlessly between breaks without hunting for a charger.

And when you do need to juice up, its 45W SUPERVOOCTM fast charging gets you back to 100% in just 83 minutes. With a 4-year battery lifespan and 1,600 charge cycles, it's in it for the long haul—just like you.

Built to survive splashy moments


Between juggling attending classes and other activities, accidents are bound to happen. The OPPO A5 Pro 5G is built with IP66, IP68, and IP69 dust and water resistance, so it can shrug off steam during quick lunch breaks, splashes from sudden downpours on the way to work, and even accidental drops during a hectic commute.

Elevate your smartphone experience with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Choose the most durable and reliable OPPO A5 Pro device—built to keep up with your everyday hustle.

    The OPPO A5 Pro (8GB+128GB) is available for Php 10,999 and is available in Mocha Brown and Olive Green colorways.

   The OPPO A5 Pro (8GB+256GB) is priced at Php 13,999 and is available in Olive Green and Mocha Brown colorways.

   The OPPO A5 Pro 5G (8GB+256GB) is priced at Php 15,999 and is available in Bloom Pink and Mocha Brown colorways.

Ready to level up your summer? Find your perfect OPPO A5 Pro match and make it yours—available now on OPPO Stores and Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop platforms.

Getting your hands on the powerful OPPO A5 Pro is now easier than ever! With Home Credit’s flexible 6- to 18-month installment plans at 0% interest, you can upgrade without the upfront stress. Prefer using your credit card? Enjoy the same worry-free experience with 6- or 12-month 0% interest installment options at OPPO Stores.

Dance your way to a million pesos at the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge!

Get your dance moves on and join the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge for a chance to win 1 Million Pesos by following these easy steps:

  Film your best dance moves using the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge’s official audio for a minimum of 15 seconds while creatively incorporating different weather elements like heavy rains, hot weather, or windy days. Check out OPPO’s how-to post or posts from Jackie Gonzaga, Ken San Jose, Joshua Decena, Aira Casim, and Sesable for the official track and inspo!

Post your video on TikTok using the hashtag #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay, tag @oppophilippines, and ask your friends to hype up your entry by engaging on your post.

   Secure your entry by filling out this Google Form (https://bit.ly/4k5CoXX) and manifest your success!

 

New HONOR Experience Store Opens at SM Puerto Princesa with Magic7 Pro First Day Sale

Bringing cutting-edge innovation to Palawan’s Ecotourism Capital

Puerto Princesa, Philippines - HONOR Philippines continues to redefine the tech experience as it proudly unveiled its latest Experience Store at SM City Puerto Princesa today, bringing cutting-edge technology closer to the Ecotourism Capital of the Philippines. This momentous occasion was marked by the launch of the brand’s newest flagship smartphone, the HONOR Magic7 Pro.

From L-R: HONOR Philippines’ Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman, National Sales Director Tom Yuan, Puerto Electronico’s Managing Director Edwin “Eli” Tan Jr., Executive Assistant Jesus “Jess” Canizares, SM City Puerto Princesa’s Assistant Mall Manager Martin Domingo S. De Leon, and HONOR Philippines’ Regional Sales Director for Northern Iloilo Nixon John Iquina.

“We are committed to expanding our reach and making HONOR’s cutting-edge technology more accessible to Filipinos across the country. The opening of our SM Puerto Princesa Experience Store reflects our dedication to innovation and service,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of HONOR fans, local media partners, and tech enthusiasts, all eager to witness this milestone. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including HONOR Philippines’ Digital Marketing Manager and Content Lead Eason De Guzman, National Sales Director Tom Yuan, Puerto Electronico’s Managing Director Edwin “Eli” Tan Jr., Executive Assistant Jesus “Jess” Canizares, SM City Puerto Princesa’s Assistant Mall Manager Martin Domingo S. De Leon, and HONOR Philippines’ Regional Sales Director for Northern Iloilo Nixon John Iquina.

An Unforgettable Celebration

Guests were treated to an engaging program hosted by Alvin Sia, with interactive games such as the “Guess the Phone Challenge” and “Don’t Touch the Color,” showcasing the innovative features of the HONOR Magic7 Pro and HONOR X9c. Exciting prizes, including cash rewards and exclusive freebies, heightened the energy of the event.


“The opening of our newest Experience Store in SM Puerto Princesa symbolizes our dedication to reaching more Filipinos with our powerful and stylish smart devices,” shared Eason de Guzman during his welcoming remarks.

Innovation meets Tourism Capital

The HONOR Magic7 Pro took center stage, impressing attendees with its groundbreaking AI-powered photography capabilities. Featuring advanced AI technology, the Magic7 Pro delivers stunning, cinema-quality photos and videos in diverse lighting conditions. With its 100x Super Zoom, users can capture intricate details from afar, while its ultra-clear night photography ensures vivid, sharp images even in low light.

Equipped with the flagship Snapdragon Gen 8 Elite processor, the Magic7 Pro guarantees a seamless and lightning-fast performance. Its immersive display, designed for vibrant visuals and smooth interactions, makes it an ideal device for gaming, multitasking, and content creation. These cutting-edge features position the Magic7 Pro as a must-have device for travelers, creators, and smartphone enthusiasts seeking unparalleled performance and style.

A Testament to Growth

This milestone reflects HONOR’s commitment to expanding its reach and empowering communities through innovation. Guests explored the newly opened store, designed to offer a personalized and immersive retail experience, solidifying HONOR’s presence in Palawan.

Looking Ahead


As HONOR continues its expansion across the country, more Experience Stores are set to open, ensuring wider access to the brand’s offerings. The SM Puerto Princesa store joins the growing network of HONOR retail outlets designed to bring convenience and innovation closer to customers.

Color, Price, and Availability

Available in Lunar Shadow Grey and Black, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is now officially available nationwide! Order now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_M7Pro_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/M7ProLaunch_PR, and TiktokShop https://bit.ly/TikTok_M7Pro_PR.

For more affordable offers, the HONOR Magic7 Pro is also available at Home Credit for as low as Php 2,484/month with 0% interest and payable up to 18 months.

To know more about HONOR Magic7 Pro, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_M7Pro_PR. For more exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or 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/.

April 27, 2025

SB19 drops two music videos for “DUNGKA!” and “Time” in bold, creative move

From revolutionary street movements to intimate family moments, the P-Pop powerhouse delivers a double feature packed with heart and meaning


Music fans are in for a compelling audio-visual experience as SB19 drops the official music video for their two singles “DUNGKA!” and “Time,” released under Sony Music Entertainment and 1Z Entertainment.

Both tracks are part of their third EP, Simula at Wakas, which marks the final chapter in a trilogy that began with 2021’s pagsibol and continued with 2023’s PAGTATAG!.

Helmed by Kerbs Balagtas of YouMeUs MNL, the music video of DUNGKA!” reflects the chaotic but vibrant world of urban Manila. It’s a dynamic tribute to individuality, community, and the unfiltered beauty of everyday life, where people of diverse classes and backgrounds come together to raise their voices and stand up for something bigger than themselves.

Released with no teaser and fanfare, the song’s MV was a surprise drop for the fans.


In conceptualizing the video, SB19 set out to mirror the track’s chaotic energy through a visual celebration of diversity and self-expression. The five-piece group explains, “That energy really stood out to us. Our idea was to highlight our group’s diversity and showcase each member’s unique personality. From there, it grew into something bigger, bringing in people from all walks of life to reflect the extraordinariness in our differences.”

The music video features an impressive roster of guest stars, including Mimiyuuuh, Maymay Entrata, Alodia Gosiengfiao, Sassa Gurl, Jayat, Kween Yasmin, Malupiton, Ghost Wrecker, Shehyee, Smugglaz, Pat Lasaten, Agnes Reoma and Vice Ganda, whose presence added a deeper layer of impact to the project.

“When someone brought up Ate Vice, it just made perfect sense,” shares SB19 in a collective statement. “Her personality and connection to the public really aligned with the message we were trying to send.”

Beyond the music, “DUNGKA!” serves as a statement, one that mirrors current realities and encourages collective action. In the video, SB19 leads a symbolic movement, echoing calls for change and empowerment from the streets, where real transformation often begins.

“We brought in artists and personalities who we felt matched the spirit of what we wanted to say,” SB19 adds. “They’re people who also want to speak up, who want change, who want to be part of a movement that challenges a flawed system. Everything just fell into place. The concept, the message—it all aligned. It felt like the right time to show people that we can do this now—that this is where SB19 is. We also wanted to share that power, that message, with everyone: that movements and revolutions aren’t just for celebrities or people in certain positions. No matter who you are or where you’re from, you can take part in change. That’s really the heart of the idea.”


Complementing the bold energy of “DUNGKA!” is the more reflective and heartfelt “Time,” which arrives with its own music video—this time under the creative direction of 1032 Lab. The visual narrative focuses on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing meaningful moments with loved ones.

Stripped of ornate visuals, the “Time” video leans into emotional authenticity. It was deliberately kept simple, allowing the message to resonate with clarity and sincerity.

“More than just creating a visually appealing music video, our main goal was to clearly deliver the message—about time,” SB19 explains. “It’s a universal concern. Everyone, no matter who you are or where you’re from, is affected by how we use time. And while we all have time, not everyone uses it wisely mostly because of different priorities or distractions.”

The music video captures everyday moments that hit close to home, making its message universally accessible to all. “The core message is this: we’re all running out of time one way or another,” the group adds. “Let’s use it wisely, before it slips away.”

With these two new releases, SB19 once again proves their commitment not just to sonic evolution, but also to storytelling the resonates deeply with the Filipino people.

Watch the music video here:


Time


Follow SB19 on their socials:





The Communications Olympiad Announces the Schools Advancing to the Qualifying Round


The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, the country chapter of the leading worldwide network of communication professionals, and COMCO School of Communications, the communication training and professional development arm of global award-winning communications group COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, announce the qualifying teams for The Communications Olympiad.

This initiative is a communications training program and competition for collegiate students which aims to empower the next generation of communicators by equipping them with transformative knowledge with real-world applications. The Communications Olympiad provides a learning journey with practical exercises through an Olympiad-level competition for the participants to advance their skills as the next communications professionals.

Each team participated in the Qualifier Phase of the competition, where they formed teams of five and created position papers in line with the theme “Rewrite Climate Change.” The qualifiers will be part of The Communications Olympiad Training Camp where contenders will undergo rigorous training to fully equip them in the competition.

The first session, "Best Practices in Communications," is designed to provide participants with essential skills to develop, implement, and manage successful communications campaigns, covering Elements of a Communications Plan, Writing 101 for Business Communications, CSR Communications, and a discussion on the IABC Rubrics.

The second session, “The Role of Communication in Environment Conservation,” aims to identify the pivotal contributions of communications in amplifying environmental conservation efforts. The session will cover Climate Change and Other Environment Concerns, Sustainability Practices Among Businesses, Environmental Communication, and Environmental Education.

Lastly, the third session, “Innovations in Communications,” will examine the different tools communicators can use to adapt to the ever-evolving industry. The session will cover New PR, Digital and Social Media, Responsible Use of AI, and Video Storytelling.

After going through the Training Camp, the teams will take part in a 24-hour hackathon challenge, where each team will be tasked to create a communications plan based on an actual case.

This challenge will determine the top 15 teams eligible to take their place in The Communications Olympiad Grand Championship.

Ferdinand L. Bondoy, Corporate Secretary and Lead for Youth and Education of IABC Philippines, as well as Group Chief Executive Director and Lead Counsel for Strategic Communications / Partner and Co-Founder of COMCO Mundo shared, “Being the best at what we do isn’t just about standing out but mostly about standing for something. To our Communication Olympians, showing excellence is to use your skills to uplift people and protect the planet, where success transforms into significance. Strive not just to win, but to make a difference.”

For updates, visit our Facebook at facebook.com/communicationsolympiad, Instagram at @communicationsolympiad, and official page at comcomundo.com/the-communications-olympiad.

The Communications Olympiad is organized by IABC Philippines and the COMCO School of Communications, and sponsored by COMCO Mundo League of Enterprises, Globe Telecom Inc., Teleperformance Philippines, Jollibee Foods Corp., Personal Collection Direct Selling Inc., and Sony Philippines. Its official media partners include Malaya Business Insight, SEA Wave Pilipinas, SEAWaveMag.com, The Philippine STAR, and WhenInManila.com. The official student organization partners are the Arts and Sciences Society of English Majors from West Visayas State University, Kapunungan sa mga Mass Communicators – Silliman University, PLM Mass Communication Students’ League from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Team Communication from De La Salle University, University of the Philippines - Baguio On MIC, and the West Visayas State University Communication Student Council.

Grab Philippines Celebrates Earth Day 2025, Kicks Off Mangrove Planting Project in La Union

DULAO, LA UNIONGrab Philippines has planted the first 1,000 of 80,000 pledged mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, marking an early milestone in its newly launched Green Programme. Done in celebration of Earth Day 2025, the initiative underscores the superapp’s broader push to embed environmental sustainability into the country’s ride-hailing and on-demand delivery industries.

Grab Philippines Director for Strategy Greg Camacho [1st from right] and Grab’s Head of Group Sustainability Iris Chang [2nd from right] spearheaded the planting of the initial batch of mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, together with volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, and employees

The Green Programme, which was launched in the Philippines in February 2025, empowers users to play an active role in environmental stewardship through tech. By enabling the Green Program toggle on the Grab App, users get to contribute PHP 2 for every GrabCar ride and PHP 1 for every GrabFood or GrabMart delivery transaction.

GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union

One of the flagship initiatives to emerge from the program is the GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union — a planned five-hectare mangrove enrichment site set to nurture thousands of mangrove seedlings. The initiative is a collaboration between Grab, the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer’s Cooperative, the Philippine-based sustainability NGO Fostering Education and Environment for Development (FEED), and the environmental tech platform EcoMatcher.

La Union's coastal village of Dulao is among the communities in the country that grapple with escalating water and food security threats driven by climate change, notably rising sea levels, and intensifying typhoons. Mangrove enrichment has become a pivotal strategy to fortify natural defenses. This initiative is a cornerstone of the "Ridge to Reef" (R2R) strategy, championed by FEED and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), alongside various private, public, academic, NGO, and community-led efforts in La Union. This collective endeavor fosters an enabling environment for inclusive, integrated, multi-stakeholder collaboration aimed at sustainable development. Mangrove forests are crucial habitats for marine biodiversity and enhance the livelihoods of Dulao’s fishing community.
The Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative is at the forefront of sustainability efforts in their community, emphasizing the critical role of environmental action and conservation in supporting their livelihood and daily lives.

The project kicked off with the community mangrove-planting event led by volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, employees, representatives from partner organizations, and the local community — a grassroots push to anchor long-term resilience. FEED and the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Cooperative took an active role in facilitating the orientation, providing a comprehensive introduction on proper mangrove planting techniques, and explaining the positive impact of this initiative on the community. 

Delailah Lacadue, Head of Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative, notes, “We wish to express our gratitude to Grab, FEED, DMMMSU, the local government of Aringay, EcoMatcher, and to all stakeholders for this mangrove enrichment project. This will surely help us in terms of environmental protection and livelihood as well. Kami po ay kasama ninyo sa pangangalaga ng Kalikasan para sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. We, the local community, commit to being your active partner for sustainability.”

“This is just the beginning — a pivotal first step in our long-term commitment to environmental sustainability,” said Greg Camacho, Director for Strategy at Grab Philippines. “The Green Programme is grounded in a simple yet powerful idea: when eco-friendly choices are made easy, inclusive, and accessible, they can inspire real positive impact for communities like Dulao. The planting of this first wave of mangroves, made possible by initial contributions via the Green Programme, proves that climate action doesn’t have to be distant or difficult—it can be seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of millions.”

The partnership with EcoMatcher enables tree tracking, ensuring transparency in where contributions are directed. “For sustainability-minded consumers, transparency is key,” said Bas Fransen, CEO of EcoMatcher. “Partnering with Grab Philippines through the Green Programme allows us to bring our advocacy for transparency-driven sustainability closer to Filipino consumers in a meaningful way.”


With growing participation among users, the leading superapp is geared to scale the environmental impact of the Green Programme and turn individual contributions into lasting, collective change in more areas across the country.



###

April 26, 2025

PH represented by Filipina tech leaders at the 2025 Mobile World Congress

Filipina tech leaders share perspectives on financial inclusion and how tech can be used to empower unserved and underserved communities in the Philippines

(L-R) Groupe Spéciale Mobile Association fintech vertical lead Brian Gorman, GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon, e& Money CEO Melike Kara Tanrikulu, and Axian Group CEO Erwan Gelebart.

Two Filipina tech leaders from Mynt, the holding company of GCash, the #1 finance super app in the Philippines—Martha Sazon, president & CEO, and Pebbles Sy, chief technology and operations officer—represented the country’s transformative adoption of connectivity, mobile tech, and the digital economy during the prestigious Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain

Sazon and Sy once again brought GCash’s mission of “Finance For All” to a global audience, who highlighted how fintech innovations can be used for social good—from increasing access to essential financial services within historically underserved communities to leveraging cutting-edge fintech developments to drive meaningful change and economic empowerment.

Redefining the super app

Martha Sazon was part of the MWC CEO Panel, “Fintech and Mobile Commerce Summit: Powering Mobile First Commerce,” which explored how companies like GCash can enhance the leapfrog effect of tech and artificial intelligence to address barriers to financial inclusion.

Sazon discussed how GCash first set out to meet an increased demand for seamless, mobile-first solutions among Filipinos as a money transfer app—but then went on to elevate its services by establishing a diverse and wide-ranging financial ecosystem that actively caters to unbanked and traditionally underserved sectors.

“Our money transfer services were the gateway to a broader digital economy. Across the years, and in response to our users’ needs, GCash has broadened its functionalities into a comprehensive selection of financial services, including savings, investments, insurance, and banking," explained Sazon. "Our work has empowered individuals to take control of their financial well-being and pursue economic opportunities previously out of reach, all from the convenience of their mobile phones.”

Sazon stressed that the key to the digital financial ecosystem’s success is how it focused on addressing systemic issues and the limits of traditional financial institutions: GCash aimed to break down fundamental barriers to inclusion, which included lack of infrastructure, lack of avenues for boosting financial literacy, and the lack of progressive solutions that allow for widespread access to services.

Today, GCash has accelerated financial inclusion in the Philippines, helping raise the number of customers with access to a bank account from 29% to 65%, those with access to formal credit from 2% to 8%, and those with access to insurance from 23% to 51%, all in four years.

The features of GCash range from payments and transfers that make online and offline commerce easier to lending solutions that utilize AI. A groundbreaking example of the latter is GCash’s in-house credit scoring model, GScore, which uses transactional behavior as a proxy for measuring a user’s creditworthiness and has ultimately changed the landscape of microlending.

GScore, in particular, has allowed GCash to disburse roughly $3.2 billion by 2024 to over seven million Filipinos, most of whom are women from underserved sectors. Its suite of solutions also includes tools for wealth management, with the company introducing bite-sized financial offerings to match the “sachet economy” of the Philippines.

“The conventional super app is defined as having multiple features in a single platform, but for us, a super app means being an everyday companion,” said Sazon. “It’s about constant innovation: We look at our daily use cases and find ways to make things better.”

Using fintech for empowerment

In addition to opening doors for the underbanked and underserved, GCash invests in innovations, such as APIs (application programming interfaces), which allowed it to connect and collaborate with service partners to deliver personalized solutions. These, in turn, have boosted the super app's capabilities in catering to a multitude of diverse, and personalized needs of its users.

During the "Platform Economy" MWC panel, which focused on increasing access to financial services through everyday apps and fintech ecosystems, Pebbles Sy shared how GCash's API integration has been a key factor in expanding reach and improving user experience.

She also noted how this approach has necessitated the continuous adoption and development of modular and reusable features that must work well with other app components: “Today, we’re connecting thousands of microservices on our platform through APIs. We also use APIs to connect with external partners like merchants and other service providers.”

According to Sy, when financial services are seamlessly integrated, they become second nature for its users. Thanks to APIs, GCash connects users with 1,200 billers and 17 insurers within the app, as well as with four partner banks for savings accounts and to a platform that enables Filipinos to invest with the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Sy added, “This is where embedded finance goes beyond just inclusion. It’s not just about providing access to financial services; it’s about making them work for people [as they] build better financial habits, protect what they earn, and plan for the future.

The future is now for fintech

Meanwhile, during the MWC's "The Currency of Change" session—which discussed how mobile money contributes to GDP growth and how financial innovations drive economic development—Sy emphasized the importance of aligning the future of fintech with strategies for ensuring the security and sustainability of innovations.

Citing Google’s e-Conomy Southeast Asia Report in collaboration with Temasek and Bain & Company, she shared that the Philippines emerged as the fastest-growing digital economy in the ASEAN region, where mobile money penetration more than quadrupled in the two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. These advancements highlight the profound economic impact of mobile money in the Philippines, which GCash is ready to safeguard and facilitate further.

She added, “At the end of the day, the goal is clear: We must make financial services accessible, safe, and empowering. We want to go beyond inclusion and see financial progress in Filipinos, which hopefully can [translate into] financial health and freedom.”

Filipina tech leaders share perspectives on financial inclusion and how tech can be used to empower unserved and underserved communities in the Philippines

Two Filipina tech leaders from Mynt, the holding company of GCash, the #1 finance super app in the Philippines—Martha Sazon, president & CEO, and Pebbles Sy, chief technology and operations officer—represented the country’s transformative adoption of connectivity, mobile tech, and the digital economy during the prestigious Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain

Sazon and Sy once again brought GCash’s mission of “Finance For All” to a global audience, who highlighted how fintech innovations can be used for social good—from increasing access to essential financial services within historically underserved communities to leveraging cutting-edge fintech developments to drive meaningful change and economic empowerment.

Redefining the super app

Martha Sazon was part of the MWC CEO Panel, “Fintech and Mobile Commerce Summit: Powering Mobile First Commerce,” which explored how companies like GCash can enhance the leapfrog effect of tech and artificial intelligence to address barriers to financial inclusion.

Sazon discussed how GCash first set out to meet an increased demand for seamless, mobile-first solutions among Filipinos as a money transfer app—but then went on to elevate its services by establishing a diverse and wide-ranging financial ecosystem that actively caters to unbanked and traditionally underserved sectors.

“Our money transfer services were the gateway to a broader digital economy. Across the years, and in response to our users’ needs, GCash has broadened its functionalities into a comprehensive selection of financial services, including savings, investments, insurance, and banking," explained Sazon. "Our work has empowered individuals to take control of their financial well-being and pursue economic opportunities previously out of reach, all from the convenience of their mobile phones.”

Sazon stressed that the key to the digital financial ecosystem’s success is how it focused on addressing systemic issues and the limits of traditional financial institutions: GCash aimed to break down fundamental barriers to inclusion, which included lack of infrastructure, lack of avenues for boosting financial literacy, and the lack of progressive solutions that allow for widespread access to services.

Today, GCash has accelerated financial inclusion in the Philippines, helping raise the number of customers with access to a bank account from 29% to 65%, those with access to formal credit from 2% to 8%, and those with access to insurance from 23% to 51%, all in four years.

The features of GCash range from payments and transfers that make online and offline commerce easier to lending solutions that utilize AI. A groundbreaking example of the latter is GCash’s in-house credit scoring model, GScore, which uses transactional behavior as a proxy for measuring a user’s creditworthiness and has ultimately changed the landscape of microlending.

GScore, in particular, has allowed GCash to disburse roughly $3.2 billion by 2024 to over seven million Filipinos, most of whom are women from underserved sectors. Its suite of solutions also includes tools for wealth management, with the company introducing bite-sized financial offerings to match the “sachet economy” of the Philippines.

“The conventional super app is defined as having multiple features in a single platform, but for us, a super app means being an everyday companion,” said Sazon. “It’s about constant innovation: We look at our daily use cases and find ways to make things better.”

Using fintech for empowerment

In addition to opening doors for the underbanked and underserved, GCash invests in innovations, such as APIs (application programming interfaces), which allowed it to connect and collaborate with service partners to deliver personalized solutions. These, in turn, have boosted the super app's capabilities in catering to a multitude of diverse, and personalized needs of its users.

During the "Platform Economy" MWC panel, which focused on increasing access to financial services through everyday apps and fintech ecosystems, Pebbles Sy shared how GCash's API integration has been a key factor in expanding reach and improving user experience.

She also noted how this approach has necessitated the continuous adoption and development of modular and reusable features that must work well with other app components: “Today, we’re connecting thousands of microservices on our platform through APIs. We also use APIs to connect with external partners like merchants and other service providers.”

According to Sy, when financial services are seamlessly integrated, they become second nature for its users. Thanks to APIs, GCash connects users with 1,200 billers and 17 insurers within the app, as well as with four partner banks for savings accounts and to a platform that enables Filipinos to invest with the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Sy added, “This is where embedded finance goes beyond just inclusion. It’s not just about providing access to financial services; it’s about making them work for people [as they] build better financial habits, protect what they earn, and plan for the future.”

The future is now for fintech

Meanwhile, during the MWC's "The Currency of Change" session—which discussed how mobile money contributes to GDP growth and how financial innovations drive economic development—Sy emphasized the importance of aligning the future of fintech with strategies for ensuring the security and sustainability of innovations.

Citing Google’s e-Conomy Southeast Asia Report in collaboration with Temasek and Bain & Company, she shared that the Philippines emerged as the fastest-growing digital economy in the ASEAN region, where mobile money penetration more than quadrupled in the two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. These advancements highlight the profound economic impact of mobile money in the Philippines, which GCash is ready to safeguard and facilitate further.

She added, “At the end of the day, the goal is clear: We must make financial services accessible, safe, and empowering. We want to go beyond inclusion and see financial progress in Filipinos, which hopefully can [translate into] financial health and freedom.”

YouTube Shopping launches in the Philippines, expanding partnership with Shopee in Southeast Asia

YouTube, in partnership with Shopee, launches YouTube Shopping in the Philippines. With this launch, the YouTube Shopping affiliate program is now available in six countries across Southeast Asia, further fueling the burgeoning video commerce in the region. YouTube Shopping seeks to elevate the purchase experience and create more opportunities for viewers, content creators, and even advertisers.

Camille Co, Vincent Lee,Sapna Chadha,Tyron Syling,Mond Salem

Viewers can now seamlessly find and buy the things they love while watching content from their favorite creators. The YouTube Shopping affiliate program transforms video e-commerce from links in the description box to actual and direct product tagging – no more extra clicking, endless searching, or switching between websites. All they have to do is check out!

The launch of the YouTube Shopping Affiliate Program in the Philippines offers exciting opportunities for both Shopee sellers and content creators. Shopee sellers can now expand their reach by collaborating with an even broader network of content creators through this partnership, giving them the opportunity to tap into a highly engaged, incremental audience and drive sales like never before. This seamless connection between creators and sellers accelerates product discovery, amplifies brand reach, and ultimately enhances conversion rates.

For eligible local creators, this partnership unlocks new business opportunities, enabling them to monetize their influence by promoting products to an audience they have already built connections with. As consumers in the Philippines increasingly seek engaging, content-driven shopping experiences, this collaboration meets their evolving expectations.

Tapping on the rise of video commerce and creator economy in the Philippines

Southeast Asia is one of the world's fastest-growing e-commerce markets, with video commerce having surged to 20% of the region’s e-commerce gross merchandise value in 2024–a fourfold increase since 2022[1]. At the same time the Philippine creator economy is thriving, with over 450 channels with more than one million subscribers, and over 6,000 channels with more than 100,000 subscribers[2].

Driving this growth is a shift from traditional discovery to a video-first shopping experience, with consumers looking to online content with creators they trust for information and entertainment. On YouTube, creators are more than just entrepreneurs and cultural influencers – they are trusted advisors on behalf of brands. A global study reveals that online users are 98% more likely to trust recommendations from YouTube creators compared to other social platforms. This trust translates directly into purchase confidence. In fact, YouTube drives 3.8 times greater purchase intent than other social platforms on averages[3].

This underscores viewers’ trust in creators' recommendations and their desire for authentic product reviews and demonstrations ultimately leading to conversion. Consumers are looking to search- and video-led entertainment to enrich their shopping experience, and this deep engagement with trusted creators on YouTube underscores the platform’s unique position to power this.

According to a Kantar study on shopping behaviors among Southeast Asian Gen Zs, eight in ten Gen Z respondents desire entertaining shopping experiences reinforcing the importance of content in their shopping journey. Furthermore, despite exploring alternative channels for product discovery, 63% of Filipino Gen Z respondents still prefer to complete their purchases on e-commerce platforms, making this partnership between YouTube and Shopee highly synergistic in creating an integrated, seamless shopping experience.

Sapna Chadha, Vice President for Google Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier said, “Southeast Asia is shaping the future of shopping with its powerful combination of a deeply engaged video-first audience, a profitable digital economy, and a vibrant creator community. We’re thrilled to bring YouTube Shopping to the Philippines—making Southeast Asia home to six out of nine countries globally that have it. Just seven months since our regional debut, we’re seeing strong traction across creators, sellers, and advertisers already. Building on this early momentum, YouTube Shopping will continue to grow, unlocking new opportunities for viewers, creators, brands, and partners across this dynamic region.”

Vincent Lee, Head of Shopee Philippines shared, At Shopee, we are committed to delivering engaging shopping experiences that integrate content, community, and commerce. Our partnership with YouTube Shopping is a significant milestone for our brands and sellers, allowing them to connect with creators and harness their influence to drive sales effectively. This collaboration also opens up exciting opportunities for the growing number of Filipino content creators to monetize their creativity while promoting products that resonate with their audiences. As the digital economy continues to expand, our commitment is to support sellers and creators alike, helping them thrive in this evolving landscape."

Earn more with YouTube Shopping affiliate program for creators

With the YouTube Shopping affiliate program, creators can tag products in existing and new videos, as well as pin them during live streams. The full list of tagged products and information about each product is made available at a glance in the description section and ‘Product’ section of the video. Clicking on a product will lead viewers directly to an external sales page on Shopee, for a seamless purchase.

The YouTube Shopping affiliate program complements existing monetization options that empower Filipino creators to engage their audience and build deeper connections beyond immediate sales. These include tools such as Ads Revenue, YouTube Premium Revenue, Channel Memberships, Super Thanks, Super Chat and Super Stickers.

In just seven months since YouTube launched the YouTube Shopping affiliate program in Southeast Asia, the program has delivered impressive results and fantastic momentum.

For example, Mai Trinh Hồ, a beauty and fashion creator known for her honest reviews, joined the YouTube Shopping affiliate program in the last quarter of 2024 and has already seen her revenue increase by almost five times. Another case is that of Jagat Review, a tech creator from Indonesia, shared that his earnings from the YouTube Shopping affiliate program made up a whopping 50% of his channel's total earnings between July and October of last year.

Now that YouTube Shopping is launched in the Philippines, creators like Camille Co are excited – she is already sharing her favorite makeup products by tagging them on her videos.

“I always get asked where I got this and that makeup or clothing or home stuff on my vlogs and for a long time, it’s been challenging to share them all.” Co said. “Now with YouTube Shopping, it’s so much easier to share these products that I love and truly believe in. A huge plus also for me because I get to earn on the side while doing so!”

Mond Salem of Hardware Voyage, a Filipino tech channel, is also optimistic about the feature. “I’m so excited about YouTube Shopping finally being in the Philippines! I’m looking forward to me and my fellow creators earning more with featured product sale commissions,” he said.

Reach and engagement opportunities for brands and advertisers

For advertisers, YouTube Shopping opens new doors to reach and engage more consumers, driving better business outcomes.

By enabling advertisers to directly connect partnership ads with relevant creator content, it will shorten the customer journey from discovery to sale. Brands can also use creator videos both long and short with product feeds in campaigns to expand reach to new customers across YouTube. For example, L’Oréal Thailand combined its campaign with the YouTube Shopping affiliate programme and achieved 10X more high-intent views, with a cost-per-visit twice as efficient as previous campaigns.

Since launching the YouTube Shopping affiliate program across the region, YouTube and Shopee have witnessed active usage and purchase across different categories such as Beauty, Mobile & Gadgets, and Home & Living. This shows the diverse product range and significant potential for creators to influence consumer purchasing decisions. As YouTube Shopping continues to gain momentum in Southeast Asia, it strengthens its position as a transformative force in the video commerce and creator economies.

To learn more about enabling YouTube Shopping on your channel, click here.

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About YouTube

Launched in May 2005, YouTube’s mission is to give everyone a voice and show them the world. We believe that everyone deserves to have a voice, and that the world is a better place when we listen, share and build community through our stories. YouTube is a Google company.

About Shopee
Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities. Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce. Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a leading global consumer internet company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena and SeaMoney.  

[1] eConomy SEA Report 2024

[2] YouTube Internal Data

[3] Commissioned Kantar Context Lab Meta Analysis- 2018-2023.




Atasha Muhlach shares how she enjoys capturing core memories using the OPPO Reno13 5G

Atasha Muhlach shares how she enjoys capturing core memories using the OPPO Reno13 5G


Known for her vibrant personality and unique perspective, multi hyphenate singer, dancer, and TV host Atasha Muhlach has quickly gained popularity on social media, especially on Instagram (@atashamuchlach_) where she shares moments of her life, fashion inspiration, travel adventures, and creative pursuits.

Now, with the OPPO Reno13 5G in hand, Atasha is stepping up her content game, offering her followers an even more immersive experience.

"The OPPO Reno13 5G has completely transformed how I approach content creation,” she says. “The camera quality is incredible, and the 5G connectivity makes everything seamless, allowing me to upload, share, and engage with my audience in real-time. Whether it's capturing moments on the go or editing my photos and videos with ease, this phone is my new go-to tool for creating content."

1. Step Up Your Photography Game and Maximize AI

Whether she’s documenting the streets of a new city, capturing a candid laugh with friends, or filming a breathtaking sunset Atasha is able to turn everyday moments into share-worthy masterpieces with the OPPO Reno13 5G.
Photo taken by Atasha Muhlach using the OPPO Reno13 5G

One of her favorite features? The incredible 50MP Ultra-Clear Camera System that lets her snap crisp, vibrant photos without all the heavy gear. “I’ve seen content creators with huge teams and lots of equipment just to capture photos. But with this phone, it’s so easy—pocket-friendly and with no bulky cameras!”

For Atasha, content creation isn’t just about clicking a button—it’s about capturing a feeling, a moment, a story. And the OPPO Reno13 5G makes that easier than ever.

Photo taken by Atasha Muhlach using the OPPO Reno13 5G

One of her go-to features is the AI Livephoto. This is a game-changer for capturing the essence of a moment. Instead of just freezing time in a single frame, AI Livephoto records 1.5 seconds before and after a shot, transforming still images into dynamic, moving snippets of life. “It’s like having a tiny movie for every photo I take,” Atasha explains. “I can see the waves crashing, the wind playing with my hair, or that priceless laugh I just had with my family or friends —it’s so much more than just a single static photo.”

With the AI Livephoto, Atasha is able to relive the energy and emotion behind each moment. “It makes my gallery feel alive. Every time I scroll through my photos, it’s like I’m back in that exact moment, experiencing it all over again,” she adds.

2. Be Creative with AI Editing Tools

For Atasha, efficiency is key. The OPPO Reno13 5G’s AI-powered editing tools make it easy to enhance photos and videos on the fly. “Editing is such a huge part of content creation, and the OPPO Reno13 5G makes it so much easier,” Atasha shares. “I don’t even need third-party apps most of the time because everything I need is already built into the phone.”

Photobombers and crowded places sometimes disrupt the beauty of attraction or the photo you’re taking. But Atasha doesn’t worry about that anymore with the OPPO Reno13 5G’s AI Eraser 2.0 that removes any unwanted element with a simple tap. If she needs to get rid of glare from a shop window or water reflection from her snaps, the AI Reflection Remover has her covered making each photo clear without a hint of any distractions.

And when it comes to capturing the best angles, AI Portrait Mode ensures a professional, depth-enhanced shot—perfect for both solo and group selfies. “It makes every photo look like it was taken on a high-end camera,” Atasha gushes.

3. Choose the AI That Works for You

It’s always a struggle trying to capture the perfect selfie, with most of the time ending with a blurry shot or an awkward angle. With AI Unblur and AI Best Face, Atasha never has to second-guess her selfies. “I love how I can snap a quick selfie on the go, and AI Best Face makes sure I look my best every single time. It’s like having a built-in glam team!” she laughs.

No more retaking dozens of photos to get the right one. Every selfie can be crisp and clear in just one snap.

The AI Clarity Enhancer also ensures that Atasha’s night shots shine just as bright as it is at daytime. With the AI Clarity Enhance of the OPPO Reno13 5G, every detail is enhanced without losing the ambiance. “Taking photos at night or with poor lighting used to be tricky, but now, I don’t have to worry about grainy, dark photos. The AI does all the work, and I get high-quality shots every time.” Atasha says.

With the OPPO Reno13 5G, Atasha knows that no moment—day or night—will ever be missed. “It’s all about capturing real moments, and this phone makes it so easy. I can focus on enjoying the experience while my camera ensures I have the perfect shot to remember it by.”

Your Turn to Create!

For Atasha, content creation is all about having fun, letting your creativity flow, and telling your story. And with the OPPO Reno13 5G, she believes anyone can jump in and bring their ideas to life. “If you’re thinking of starting your content creation journey, just go for it! And make sure you have the right phone to back you up. The OPPO Reno13 5G has everything you need—awesome camera quality, powerful AI tools, and amazing battery life. It’s my creative partner, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Ready to kickstart your own content journey? The OPPO Reno13 Series 5G is now available in all authorized OPPO stores nationwide.

Choose the perfect partner for your discovery and exploration:

● The OPPO Reno13 F is priced at Php 17,999 and comes in Graphite Grey, Skyline Blue, and Plume Purple.

● The OPPO Reno13 F 5G is available for Php 22,999 (12+256GB) or PHP 25,999 (12+512GB) and comes in Plume Purple, Luminous Blue, and Graphite Grey.

● The OPPO Reno13 5G is priced at Php 34,999 in Plume White and Luminous Blue.

● The OPPO Reno13 Pro 5G is available for Php 43,999 in Plume Purple and Graphite Grey.


My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration Promo

OPPO has reached over seven million registered members on the My OPPO App, marking a milestone for its growing community.

To make the celebration even more exciting, OPPO is hosting the My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration Promo until April 30, 2025, offering exciting rewards to registered users.

How to Join:
  • Open the My OPPO App and log in.
  • Click on the 7M Celebration campaign banner on the homepage.
  • Access the 7M Capsule Carnival and tap the "Click & Win" button to enter the raffle.
  • Get three free plays per day or redeem 30 OPPOints per extra attempt.
Prizes include:
  • E-gift vouchers from Zalora, Jollibee, KFC, Chatime, and VIU.
  • OPPO devices, including the OPPO Find X8, OPPO Reno13 Pro 5G, OPPO Reno13 F 5G, OPPO A5 Pro 5G, OPPO Enco Air 3, and OPPO Watch Free.

The My OPPO App is a loyalty platform designed for OPPO users, offering exclusive rewards, OPPOints, and special services. This promo gives members a chance to win prizes while staying engaged with the OPPO community.

To know more about the OPPO Reno13 Series 5G, visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.



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