PLDT Home makes Christmas more meaningful with exclusive Holideals gifts

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PLDT Home is playing Santa this Christmas with overflowing gifts for families. The PLDT Home Holideals promo is back with a trove of rewards including exclusive deals, treats, and chances to win smart entertainment and appliance packages.

If you haven’t completed shopping for your Christmas gifts yet, PLDT Home’s Holideals got you! PLDT Home enables you to get the most value out of your gift purchases by giving you more rewarding experiences that you can share with the whole family at home this holiday season.

A Rewarding Christmas for loyal subscribers

Of course, gift shopping remains a huge part of the Filipino holidays. It’s ingrained in our culture to shop for gifts for our loved ones even when we’re tightening our belt. Now you don’t have to miss out on the joys of shopping for gifts and groceries for the season. PLDT Home gives away up to P250,000 worth SM gift certificates to lucky subscribers who upgrade their plan or avail any device or entertainment add-ons.

Level up your home entertainment system with these two prizes that the whole family will enjoy beyond the holidays. Five winners will get the Smart Entertainment Set worth P40,000 each. The set comes with a 50" Crystal UHD 4K Samsung Smart TV, Samsung C-Series Soundbar, Philips Hue Play White & Color Smart Light, Google Nest Mini (2 pieces), and a one-year subscription to HBO Go to complete the package.

Five winners will also be chosen for the Smart Home Appliance Set worth P40,000 each. The set will raise your cooking game and enhance your home network as it comes with Instantpot Vortex 4-in-1 Smart Air Fryer, Eufy RoboVac G30, Google Nest Hub Max, and Essenza Mini Nespresso Machine.

Christmas is all about giving and togetherness. Beyond the overflowing gifts and prizes, PLDT Home, the most reliable broadband internet in the Philippines and Ookla’s Fastest Internet for five consecutive years, is making sure that families and friends stay connected through the holidays, enabling them to strengthen their bonds with loved ones.

To learn more about PLDT Home’s Holideals, visit www.pldthome.com.

OPPO Zero-Power Tag is Named to TIME’s List of Best Inventions of 2023 for Envisioning a More Sustainable Future

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OPPO’s Zero-Power Tag was announced to have landed on TIME’s list of Best Inventions for 2023 in the Experimental category, putting OPPO among the likes of Apple, Samsung, and Sony with a highly prestigious international accolade for invention.

Every year, TIME recognizes products, software, and services that are solving compelling problems in creative ways. The result is a list of 200 groundbreaking inventions changing how we live, work, play, and think about what’s possible. In the Experimental category, TIME’s recognition of the OPPO Zero-Power Tag adds to OPPO’s international reputation for technical expertise and novel thinking, and highlights a new approach to a sustainable world where IoT devices won’t generate polluting batteries.

“We are honored to be included in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2023 list for the OPPO Zero-Power Tag in recognition of our achievements in innovation and sustainability, ” said Elvis Zhou, OPPO Overseas CMO. “As the shift to B5G/6G accelerates, there's a pressing challenge to expand IoT connectivity without exacerbating our world's e-waste problem. Born from OPPO's vision to blend convenience and environmental responsibility, OPPO Zero-Power Tag is an eco-friendly IoT device that communicates with phones using ambient energy instead of a battery. With object tracking, environmental monitoring and other smart features, we are very excited about the possibilities it will unlock in the IoT space. Moving forward, OPPO will continue to make contributions to sustainability and develop innovative initiatives that positively impact the environment.”

At MWC 2023, OPPO unveiled the company’s first battery-free IoT prototype device — OPPO Zero-Power Tag — powered by Zero-power Communication technology. Leveraging key technologies such as RF power harvesting, backscattering, and low-power computing, the Tag is able to harvest energy directly from Bluetooth, WiFi, and cellphone signals, resulting in surprising advantages such as smaller size, better durability, greater signal distance, and lower cost.

OPPO is now in the process of refining the device's design, technology, and industry standards while introducing more features, such as health monitoring, to expand the device's application to more fields. The company believes that OPPO Zero-Power Tag could one day prevent millions of batteries from going to landfills while making life both smarter and easier for consumers and businesses alike.

Sustainability has long been a central component of OPPO’s business operation and product design. In February 2023, OPPO released the OPPO Climate Action Report with support from global consultancy Deloitte. In the report, OPPO pledges for the first time to achieve carbon neutrality across its global operations by 2050, and outlines five key areas in achieving this goal: low-carbon manufacturing, reducing the carbon footprint of products, investing in options that generate less carbon, utilizing digital technology to manage carbon emissions, and collaborating on industry standards to address climate change.

This year, OPPO Battery Health Engine received the 2023 SEAL Business Sustainability Award, and thanks to its innovations, OPPO was also named one of the 10 Most Innovative Asia-Pacific Companies in 2023 by influential business media Fast Company. In the 2023 OPPO Inspiration Challenge, OPPO added a new category, “Inspiration for the Planet,” to recognize innovations for sustainability and attract more than 280 proposals from worldwide startups, covering from biomimetic materials to sustainable and safe energy storage.

Aspiring for a greener future for all, OPPO will continue to prioritize sustainability in its operations to achieve its carbon neutrality goal, and strive to deliver more environmentally friendly technologies and products through constant innovations.

Christmas Deal: Give Love This Holiday with HONOR X8a’s Big Price Drop, now at Php 8,990 Only!

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The holidays just got merrier as HONOR Philippines announces HONOR X8a 2,000-Peso Price Drop

The leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines is truly a gift that keeps on giving. After announcing its back-to-back Amazing Holideals and 12.12 Mega Pamasko Sale promo, comes the price drop that all has been waiting for! HONOR X8a, introduced at Php 10,990, is getting a price slash of Php 2,000 and will be available for only Php 8,990 until December 25! Hurry to any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores or online via Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop!

“The Holiday Season can be a bit overwhelming, so we give you this reference of HONOR best deals tailored for your needs and most importantly, budget appropriate. That said, the DSLR-like smartphone just got its much-awaited price drop. What are you waiting for, buy now,” said Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines Vice President.

HONOR X8a’s Top-notch Camera and Display Technology

DSLR-like shots from the smartphone were made possible by its 100MP Main Rear Camera, supported by both a 5MP Wide & Depth Camera and a Macro Camera. With HONOR X8a, users can capture high-definition images in vivid details and clarity. It also features a 16MP Front Camera, perfect for your captivating selfies.

The device’s HONOR Display Color Calibration technology, paired with its 6.7-inch FullView Display, allows for a better viewing experience on a large screen, with a screen-to-body ratio of 93.6%. Certified by TÜV Rheinland, HONOR X8a is also equipped with low blue light technology, ideal for people who spend long hours in front of their screens. It also has a 4500 mAh battery, and on a single charge, can deliver up to 13 hours of music streaming, or 16 hours of uninterrupted social media browsing.

This DLSR-like smartphone will be available for only Php 8,990 starting now until Christmas day! Buyers may now run to the nearest HONOR kiosks, or buy via our Partner Online Stores – Lazada (http://bit.ly/40iFPjB), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3mNbds1), and Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3ZYbqqy).

For more information and 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/.

ARTBOX returns with ARTBOX AVENUE, uniting cultures and creativity in a tapestry of Urban Expression

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Largest Indoor All-Day Night Festival marks its comeback this January 2024

Singapore’s Largest Indoor All-Day Night Festival, ARTBOX, marks its comeback this January 2024 with ARTBOX AVENUE. Covering 105,000 sqft at Singapore Expo Hall 6, the event ingeniously recreates an immersive tapestry of bustling streets, showcasing an explosive fusion of global street culture.

Kicking off 2024 as one of the first events of the year, ARTBOX emerges as a beacon of cultural celebration and artistic innovation. Spanning two consecutive weekends from January 26th to 28th and February 2nd to 4th, this year's instalment promises an even grander spectacle – ARTBOX AVENUE will be 50% bigger as compared to its 2023 edition.

Visitors are treated to a slew of F&B and shopping options available at ARTBOX AVENUE 2024

Having garnered immense acclaim last year with over 60,000 enthusiastic visitors, ARTBOX is amplifying next year's iteration with Singapore's wackiest content publisher, SGAG, as its co-organiser for the second consecutive year, ensuring a seamless fusion of vibrant creativity and engaging experiences for attendees.

Sharing his enthusiasm for the launch of ARTBOX AVENUE 2024, Kent Teo, Founder and CEO of Invade said, “ARTBOX 2024 is a celebration of creativity, connection, and community. Building on our collaboration with SGAG for the second year, it gives us the opportunity to bring diverse cultures together on an unprecedented scale. Beyond a marketplace, this year’s ARTBOX is a cultural expression of the multicultural experiences that serves as a catalyst for the creative economy. The electric programming not only fuels the next generation of content creators but also creates a dynamic space that fosters collaborations between local and international merchants, empowering them and elevating creative retail in the region,”

What to see

ARTBOX & SGAG Stage

Singer Alfred Sim takes on the stage in ARTBOX 2023 to serenade the crowd. This year, ARTBOX AVENUE continues to captivate visitors with more talented homegrown bands.

At the ARTBOX stage, be prepared for an array of captivating programmes from captivating live performances by our talented homegrown bands as well as overseas acts, the vibrant setting provides a platform for participants to display their skills and engage in lively exchanges, enhancing the festival's energetic vibe.

HEPMIL Media Group Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Adrian Ang (@sgagxiaoming) takes on the Beam of Pain in ARTBOX 2023

At the SGAG stage, visitors will be treated to a riot of fun and pain with the all-new electrifying Hopscotch of Pain challenge where participants hop on one leg, across a beam covered in acupuncture mats, channelling the classic hopscotch game but with a hilarious, painful twist.

But that's not all – brace for the adrenaline rush with two fresh competitions: the National Piak Cockroach Championship and the National Water Bottle Tornado Championship, where the best contenders will pocket $888 in cash prizes in each thrilling event.

“Co-organising ARTBOX for the second time running is still as exhilarating as the first – on top of merging diverse cultures, we are also aiming to elevate the experience by infusing the festival with our unique brand of wit and fun, showcasing our pride in Singaporean humour. SGAG is thrilled to celebrate and engage audiences with laughter, making memories that resonate with everyone who joins us at ARTBOX AVENUE." said Adrian Ang (also known as @sgagxiaoming), Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of HEPMIL Media Group, setting the stage for an ARTBOX AVENUE 2024 that promises to be nothing short of sensational.

Central Avenue

Central Plaza featuring larger-than-life traffic lights and psychedelic neon lights

This year, ARTBOX introduces two exciting new zones: Central Avenue and Open Plaza, offering enhanced experiences for visitors.

Central Avenue, the innovative experiential structure, boasts a captivating three-level display of vibrantly decorated shipping containers. Its striking features include colossal traffic lights adorned with psychedelic neon lights, graffiti, and street signs. Along this avenue, visitors can immerse themselves in thrilling roving live performances, creating an energetic atmosphere. Additionally, the Open Plaza emerges as the novel art and culture zone, offering a diverse array of engaging activities and exhibits.

Adding to the excitement, the Central Avenue will also feature larger-than-life photo spots like the ARTBOX Street Press. These containers will boast interiors adorned from floor to ceiling with dynamic designs, expressing vivid personalities, offering an array of memorable photo opportunities for visitors.

Open Plaza - The Melting Pot of Cultures

At ARTBOX AVENUE's Open Plaza, cultures converge in a vibrant space pulsating with interactive and immersive activities spreading across two weekends. Visitors are encouraged to try out Street Chess hosted by Aliwal Chess Club in the first week, where the traditional game transforms into an urban spectacle, inviting passersby to test their strategic skills in an unconventional setting. Visitors who are seeking relaxation are in for a treat in the second week with massage sessions that offer a serene escape amidst the bustling ambiance, providing a rejuvenating break.

Workshops at the Open Plaza cater to creative enthusiasts, offering opportunities to personalise items like sneakers, T-shirts, phone charms, etc. These hands-on activities encourage self-expression and artistic exploration. Additionally, look out for Teo Heng KTV Containers that provide a platform for visitors to showcase their singing prowess while the Complimentary VR and Nintendo Switch games offer a casual yet entertaining space for friends to unwind and enjoy gaming experiences together. This dynamic blend of activities ensures there's something for everyone at the Open Plaza, fostering an inclusive and engaging environment.

Non-Stop, Fun-Filled Activities

Shoppers immersing themselves within the huge selection of shopping outlets

Indulge in a world of diverse global offerings of retail outlets for an unparalleled shopping adventure and delve into an exquisite culinary journey featuring an extensive selection of F&B choices, from bold Southeast Asian flavours to timeless traditional tastes.

At the heart of the retail zone lies an array of retro arcade machines by TAP (The Arcade People), inviting visitors to immerse themselves in classic gaming experiences. To further elevate the excitement, daily challenges will be available, providing opportunities for visitors to showcase their skills and compete for enticing prizes. Whether it's reliving fond memories or embarking on thrilling gaming challenges, TAP at ARTBOX promises an exhilarating journey into the world of retro gaming fun.

At ARTBOX AVENUE, welcome to the world of eclectic mix of activities that fosters a vibrant environment that supports local and global merchants. With over 100 F&B stores and 140 retail outlets, this vibrant space is poised to be a cultural hub, blending entertainment and diversity for people from all walks of life.

Ticket Prices (inclusive of booking fee):

Pre-Event (from now until 25 January 2024)

General single-admission tickets are from $6 on weekdays and $7 on weekends per person

Event (26 January to 4 February 2024)

General single-admission tickets are from $7 on weekdays and $8 on weekends per person

Early Risers 4-pax Bundle (For entries on Fridays, 12PM slots) are available at $16 (U.P. $23)

For more information, please visit https://www.artbox.sg/

Unlock Holiday Success: Discover How Pawning Can Be a Game-Changer for Small Business Owners!

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Small business owners shouldn’t brush off the financial advantages of pawning this Christmas.

With the holidays just around the corner, many small business owners are looking forward to seeing a rise in their revenue. In fact, in the US, there has been a clear trend of people turning to pawnshops at the end of the year to get extra cash for their Christmas spending. However, even small business owners must deal with seasonal financing challenges to cope with increased demand and costs.

In the Philippines, businesses are required to provide 13th month pay, which means small business owners must manage their cash flow well and find immediate financing to succeed. For small businesses that need money quickly, owners can turn to pawning for quick and flexible financing during this time. Here are some reasons why pawning can be a viable financing option for small business owners this holiday season:

Pawning provides quick access to cash. Unlike bank loans that may take weeks to get approval for, pawnshops can offer fast and easy access to cash, with most even getting approved within the day. Such quick timing can be crucial for small businesses that need immediate funds to keep up with the increased demand and costs of the busy holiday season.

Pawning does not require a credit history. Credit history is an important part of most banks' loan application process. Without a credit history, a borrower has little to no chance of getting approved for a bank loan. PawnHero — a BSP-regulated online pawn shop — takes a different approach. With PawnHero, all you need is proof of income to use their services. As for the loan amount, it’s based on the value of the item to be pawned. This makes it easier for borrowers, especially small business owners, to have cash on hand instantly.

Pawning has lower interest rates than bank loans. In contrast to banks’ interest rates, pawnshop interest rates are often lower and friendlier to borrowers, making them a more affordable option for small businesses. In April 2023, the average interest rate for bank loans was 7.29%. On the other hand, PawnHero, an online pawnshop in the Philippines, provides one of the lowest interest rates in the country, starting as low as 3.5% per month

Pawning offers flexible loan terms. Pawnshops offer a variety of loan terms from short- to long-term, which lets business owners choose a repayment plan according to their needs and budget. For example, pawning tickets typically have a duration of 30 to 120 days, but they may be renewed if needed. Combined with lower interest rates, pawning is definitely a more practical financing option for small business owners.

Pawning has no prepayment penalties. When banks offer loans, their payment terms are often set in stone, which means borrowers can’t pay in advance, even if they wish to, because they might incur prepayment penalty fees. In contrast, pawnshops do not charge such penalties, so business owners can repay their loans early without any penalty fees. So if revenue surges and investment returns quickly during the holiday season, small business owners can also pay off their loans immediately if they want to.

You don’t have to leave the comfort of your home to pawn. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar pawnshops, PawnHero offers an online platform that allows customers to pawn their items from home. The convenience of accessing PawnHero's services anywhere, anytime, makes it a pawn shop like no other.

During the busy holiday season, every minute counts when it comes to managing your small business. That's why PawnHero is here to help you save valuable time and effort. With PawnHero, you just need to take photos of your items, have them appraised online, wait for quick approval, and schedule your item for free pickup. Once PawnHero receives your item, you can instantly receive your cash through your bank account — ready for your small business’s needs this holiday season!

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About PawnHero

PawnHero (PawnHero.ph) is the first online pawnshop in the Philippines and is leading the modernization of the pawnbroking industry in the country. PawnHero's mission is to provide the most convenient and reliable financial service to all Filipinos in need of quick cash loans. Through the use of advanced technology, PawnHero is able to provide instant cash loans to its customers in a hassle-free and discreet manner.