Jack Ma graces the launch of GCash that leads future of payments in Philippines at Ayala Malls

Tweet

Alibaba Group Founder and Executive Chairman Jack Ma graces the launch of Globe Telecom's GCash - cashless payment system for Ayala Malls on Wednesday, October 25 at Glorietta 4, Makati City. 

In photo: Alibaba Founder and Executive Chairman Jack Ma (center, left) joins GCat, the GCash Mascot as it shows a sample of the QR code that is set to change the landscape of payments in the country. Together with him are (from L-R): Mynt President and CEO Anthony Thomas, Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu, Ant Financial Services Group CEO Eric Jing, Ayala Corporation President and CEO Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Land President and CEO Bobby Dy, and Ant Financial SVP and Head of International Operations Douglas Feagin.

GCash is poised to lead the future of payments in the Philippines following the recent joint venture of Ant Financial, Globe Telecom, and Ayala Corporation which is seen to speed up the country’s digitization to make the lives of Filipinos much easier.

Jack Ma buys taho using GCash with Globe Presiden & CEO Ernest Cu
(Photo by Jocel de Guzman) 

This developed as Chinese tech billionaire Jack Ma graced the opening of the Philippine retail industry to electronic payments through GCash. Ma was joined by Ant Financial Services Group CEO Eric Jing, Ayala Corporation President and COO Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu, Ayala Land President and CEO Bobby Dy, and Mynt President and CEO Anthony Thomas.

Jack Ma 

“Imagine a day when you can shop and buy cinema, bus and train tickets with a simple scan of your personal GCash QR code in your smart phone. The convenient daily life of 520 million Alipay users are enjoying will soon be realized in the Philippines. In the past months, Ant Financial has worked closely with GCash product of Mynt, as we are dedicated to bringing digital financial services to our friends in the Philippines.

Technology is helping more people to enjoy the benefits of digital financial services in a cost-effective, efficient and safe way. I hope we may share our technologies and experiences with our partner, helping them to better serve more local users," said Ant Financial Services Group CEO Eric Jing.

“We are thrilled to mark this special milestone with Mr. Jack Ma, and Mr. Eric Jing of Ant Financial — it goes without saying that we are very pleased to partner with Ant Financial, given their level of experience and expertise in this field. We look forward to innovating and evolving with the Filipino consumer, together. This day marks a special moment in the history of technology and payments in the Philippines — this launches the first broad application of such technology, and marks GCash as the leader in this space,” said Zobel de Ayala said.

Ayala seeks to promote financial inclusion for the underserved Filipinos. In doing so, it continuously invests in creating new channels and access points that broaden payment and lending options for all.

The partnership with Globe and Ant Financial Services Group, one of the world’s leading digital financial services providers and parent company of Alipay is aligned with Ayala’s recent strategic investments to meet the people’s changing needs, and accelerate the development of the Philippines’ digital economy.

Meanwhile, Cu noted that the partnership is now bearing fruit. 

“We are happy to share the initial successes that will disrupt payment methods in the Philippines. In this country, only 5% of the population have credit cards, leaving almost everybody to carry cash all the time to pay for something. Today, we are introducing the 3rd method of payment -- GCash. We found the right partner and the right time to really scale up the business and change the way we use financial services.”

“Now that more people are using data on their smartphones, the time is ripe to enable digital payments using the smartphone and let this go mainstream. Our challenge today is to make digital payments the preferred choice among our customers instead of cash or credit cards,” he added.

 

Through GCash, particularly the scan to pay feature of the GCash App, Filipinos can now experience the convenient cashless lifestyle.

The new payment option is a game changer for both consumers and merchants. It allows customers to pay for goods and services by simply using their smartphones to scan QR codes displayed by merchants and establishments.

On the other hand, business owners also benefit from not having to install expensive machines as they are provided with a QR code sticker which buyers can scan to pay. Customers pay the exact amount, removing the need for coins or change. GCash sees this solution working not just for organized trade but even for the ambulant vendors.

Joining GCash in showcasing the future of payments in the Philippines is Ayala Malls. Known as a retail innovator, Ayala Malls is a perfect catapult for GCash to reach thousands of consumers while also improving the customer experience for Ayala Malls shoppers.

Glorietta is the first Ayala Mall to offer the GCash payment system in many of its shops and restaurants, as well as its cinemas. GCash will be rolled out very soon to other Ayala Malls such as Greenbelt, TriNoma, Market! Market!, Alabang Town Center, Ayala Center Cebu, Bonifacio High Street, UP Town Center, Ayala Malls The 30th, Ayala Malls Vertis North, and Ayala Malls South Park.

With the GCash scan to pay feature, Ayala Malls customers can catch up with the cashless experience of shoppers in other countries.

GCash is an internationally-acclaimed mobile wallet service of Mynt which can be used to buy load, pay bills, send money, and pay for goods and services whether online or offline.

Be #BerryBrave As Jollibee Launches New Surprisingly Delicious Products: Strawberry Tea Float And Fries

Tweet

Jollibee, the Philippines’ #1 fast-food brand, launches new surprisingly delicious products: Strawberry Tea Float And Fries, exciting products that deliver the joy of strawberry goodness with every sip and bite!

A surprising treat that perfectly complements Jollibee’s best-selling meals, the Strawberry Tea Float is unlike any beverage in the fast-food scene. The strawberry tea base is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, and plays up the creaminess of the vanilla soft-serve on top.

The Strawberry Fries, on the other hand, is definitely a unique way to enjoy strawberry. The crispy fries packs a savory, strawberry-flavored punch that serves as an interesting snack and the ideal partner for the Yumburger, Jolly Hotdog, or even Chickenjoy!

“With these new products, Jollibee diners will definitely get to enjoy strawberry goodness beyond their imagination. Exciting innovations on our beloved products are proof of Jollibee’s commitment to deliver memorable dining experiences to our customers.” said Kay Segismundo, Jollibee Marketing Manager for Complementary Products.

Now you can make every strawberry lover’s dream come true with these exciting new products at Jollibee starting October 30, 2017. 

The Strawberry Tea Float is available solo for only P29.00, or as an upgrade to a value meal for only P20.00. The Strawberry Fries are available in Regular (P40.00), Large (P65.00), Jumbo (P80.00) and can also be enjoyed with your favorite value meal as an upgrade for only P7.00.

For more information, visit Jollibee Philippines on Facebook (facebook.com/JollibeePhilippines)

Prices may vary across different locations

Atlantis Announces Full Cast For MATILDA The Musical

Tweet

Atlantis Theatrical Entertainment Group (ATEG) is excited to announce the full cast for the internationally-acclaimed musical, MATILDA, inspired by Roald Dahl's beloved book.

Composed of some of the finest musical theater talents of the country, the cast is currently deep into rehearsals gearing up for a November 10th opening night at Meralco Theater in Ortigas Center.

Playing the title role are three of theater's small miracles: Telesa Marie "Esang" De Torres, whose most notable works include ABS-CBN's "The Voice," and the "Les Miserables" Asian tour; Uma Naomi Martin, who has made her theater debut in "A Little Princess," and Felicity Kyle Napuli, who has been recognized as Outstanding Child Performerat the Gawad Musika Awards. They are accompanied by a team of incredible performers who will appear as Matilda's wacky and charming classmates, namely Gabrielle Aerin Ong and Maria Ericka Peralejo as Lavander; Denise Fidel Arteta and Chi Chi Tan as Amanda; Nicole Chien and Ella Gonzalez as Alice; Alba Berenguer-Testa and Chantel Marie Guinid as Hortensia; Josh Nubla and Miguel Suarez as Bruce; Rhythm Alexander and Ian Albert Magallona as Eric; Gabo Tiongson and Pablo Miguel Palacpac as Nigel, and John Joseph Miraflores and Teddy Velasco as Tommy.

But it would not be a "Matilda" story if not for the adults who give these kids many a reason to be naughty. 

Due to give some show-stopping performances are Jamie Wilson as Miss Trunchbull; Cris Villonco as Miss Honey; Joaquin Valdes as Mr. Wormwood; Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Mrs. Wormwood; Emeline Celis-Guinid as Mrs. Phelps; Nel Gomez as Michael Wormwood; Bibo Reyes as Rudolpho, and to complete an electrifying ensemble are Steven Conde, Tim Pavino, Rhenwyn Gabalonzo, Teetin Villanueva, Gerhard Krystoffer, Alex Reyes, Jim Andrew Ferrer, Gabby Padilla, and Mica Fajardo.

Jamie as the terrifying Miss Trunchbull has 37 years of experience as an actor to back him up. He has made the theater his home since the age of seven, appearing in numerous critically-acclaimed productions such as "Pippin," "Almost Maine," "Jersey Boys," and "Run For Your Wife." A fellow veteran to accompany him is Cris, who rose to stardom as a solo artist best known for her hit single "Crush ng Bayan," and since then has made a name for herself in the world of theater and film. She recently appeared as Alison in ATEG's "Fun Home."

Joaquin is not a stranger to the Philippine theater scene, he started as a performer at a very young age and took a break from it working in advertising for eight years. Now, he returns to the stage as Mr. Wormwood. Playing his wife, Mrs. Wormwood is Carla, who is a "Miss Saigon" alumna who has performed with ATEG in many productions including "Nine," "The Addams Family," "Saturday Night Fever," and "Avenue Q." Not to be outdone is Emeline who will be Mrs. Phelps. Emeline has started performing at seven years old and has been seen in ATEG musicals such as "Rock of Ages," "The Bridges of Madison County," "Jersey Boys," and "Saturday Night Fever."

Nel, who will be playing Michael Wormwood, has been acting for 10 years, was most recently seen in "Kinky Boots." Bibo as Rudolpho, who started his acting venture with the Ateneo Blue Repertory, was last seen on the ATEG musical stage as Bob Crowe in "Jersey Boys."

Together, they help tell the story of Matilda and her friends: a group of children who are determined to fight against the injustices of childhood and are inspired to start a revolution that will change their destinies forever.

MATILDA The Musical is directed by Bobby Garcia,  choreography is by Cecile Martinez; lighting design by Driscoll Otto; musical direction by Farley Asuncion; set design by Faust Peneyra; projection design by GA Fallarme; costume design by Raven Ong; sound design by Kevin Heard; vocal coaching by ManMan Angsico; assistant direction by Steven Conde; assistant choreography by Jim Ferrer, and assistant vocal coaching by Rhenwyn Gabalonzo.

Seen by over seven million people across more than 60 cities and playing more than 5,300 performances worldwide, MATILDA The Musical is now preparing for its first UK and Ireland tour, beginning in March 2018, and running alongside the continuing West End production. To date, the show has received 86 major international awards, including 16 for Best Musical.

Presented by Promil, together with Metrobank Card Corporation, MATILDA The Musical will make its Philippine debut at the Meralco Theater, Ortigas Center, Pasig City from the 10th of November to the 10th of December this year. Shows will be scheduled on Fridays at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays at 2:00 and 8:00 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. 

The show is recommended for children aged seven and above (children under the age of four will not be permitted inside the theater). 

Tickets ranging from P1,500 to P4,000 are now available at Ticketworld (call 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph). For more information, visithttp://atlantistheatrical.com/faq.

Kids Halloween Fun at the Cartoon Network Mad Science Scare-A-Torium

Tweet

Mojo Jojo, Vilgax, Ice King and other Cartoon Network villains had the last laugh at the Cartoon Network Mad Science Scare-A-Torium!

Cartoon Network Mad Science Scare-A-Torium was held at Samsung Hall at SM Aura Premier last Sunday, October 29, 2017.

The Halloween event organized by Cartoon Network, in partnership with Mad Science PH and Mystery Manila aims to help fledgling villains-in-training to become the best that they can be. Cartoon Network fans from all over the metro attended the event, where they participated in a number of fun and challenging activities divided into several stops.

They included the Villain Academy, the Villain Supply Depot and a practical exam by Mojo Jojo, where they were tasked to create the perfect plan to defeat The Powerpuff Girls. The participants collected stamps for their licenses through these activities, earning their place among Cartoon Network’s greatest bad guys.

Aside from learning all the tricks of being a villain, kids also showcased their most eye-catching ensemble through the costume parade and costume contest, had fun alongside mascots from their favorite Cartoon Network shows, and won amazing treats via games and a raffle draw!

Missed out on the fun? Follow Cartoon Network on Facebook.com/CartoonNetworkAsia to get the latest news about your favorite shows and characters!

Cartoon Network is available on SKYCable Channel 43, SKYCable HD Channel 178, Cignal Channel 35, Cignal HD Channel 110, Destiny Cable (Digital) Channel 43, Destiny Cable (Analog) Channel 51 and Cable Link Channel 26, Dream Satellite Channel 15.

About Cartoon Network Philippines

Cartoon Network is the leading kids’ brand in the Philippines. Its dedicated Philippine channel offers the best in original animated comedies including the multi-award-winning global hits Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, We Bare Bears, Mighty Magiswords, The Amazing World of Gumball and Adventure Time. Cartoon Network is available in 29 countries throughout Asia Pacific and is currently seen in more than 135 million pay-TV homes. Online, Cartoon Network reaches millions more via its websites and apps including Cartoon Network Watch and Play and Cartoon Network Anything. In Asia Pacific, Cartoon Network is created and distributed by Turner, a Time Warner company.

Filipina Singer Alisah Bonaobra Returns to The X Factor UK

Tweet

Twenty-two-year-old Alisah Bonaobra won UK’s heart and made it back to the live shows on The X Factor UK. Viewers were asked to vote for an eliminated act from the Judges’ House round whom they want to come back and compete in the live shows.

On Sunday’s episode, it was a battle between the Boys and the Girls categories with the theme “Express Yourself.” The X Factor UK hopefuls performed a song of their choice related to the theme.

While introducing her wildcard winner, Sharon Osbourne was very thankful to the public for bringing Alisah back.

Alisah performed This is My Now by Jordin Sparks, which greatly impressed the judges and the audience. After her performance, the judges were on their feet and had nothing but compliments for her.

“That song is absolutely perfect for you because this is your now and you deserve to be back on the show. You always should have been on the show!” said Louis Walsh. “It’s almost like a winner’s song, and I love a power ballad with a key change from a great singer and you are a great singer! You’re a great performer. You got great soul and I love the way you fight back!” he added.

Nicole Scherzinger agreed with Louis and referred to Alisah as her little Disney warrior princess. “You just hiya-d and karate chopped all through that song! But you did it with grace. You did it with poise. You did it with strength. I freakin’ adore you!” she expressed. “I look at you and I’m like that’s my little ninja Filipina sister up there! You were meant to be up there, like [what Louis] said, this is your now, because that’s your stage, and you just took it tonight, honey!” she added.

“Everybody says in this contest that they really want this, and they really need to be here. I know your story. I know what you’ve gone through. And you know what? With a voice like yours, you’re gonna be here ‘til the end, Miss! I am so happy for you, so, so happy!” said judge and Girls category mentor Sharon Osbourne.

On the taped interview, Alisah called herself the “comeback queen.” She looked back at her journey where she was let go but asked to come back and fight for her spot at the Six Chair Challenge. Now she is back again as the wildcard winner.

When host Dermot O’Leary asked the judges who they thought won the night, the lady judges Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne both favored Alisah.

Alisah survived week 1 of the live shows and will continue with her journey on the competition.

Watch out for Alisah’s next performances on The X Factor UK on RTL CBS Entertainment. 

For more updates follow RTL CBS Entertainment on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RTLCBSEntertainment, @RTLCBSEntertainment on Instagram and @RTLCBSEntertain on Twitter.

The X Factor UK airs first and exclusive on RTL CBS Entertainment same day as the UK on Sundays and Mondays at 10:30am with primetime encores Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00pm. 

RTL CBS Entertainment is available on SKYcable channels 53(SD) and 196(HD), SKYdirect channel 35, Destiny Cable channel 53, and Cablelink channels 37(SD) and 313(HD).