From Manila to Aklan in just a minute: GCash Send Money feature addresses need for faster, more reliable domestic remittance service

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It is no secret that sending money from urban centers to the provinces is a massive part of the Filipino culture. People send money for various reasons, but majority of them are for allowances and their families’ daily needs. 

Due to their popularity and the lack of banking facilities in the provinces, people flock domestic remittance centers such as pawnshops to send money to their loved ones in their hometowns. And with the demand for local remittance steadily growing, the lines in remittance centers likewise continue to become longer.

The 2019 Consumer Expectations Survey of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas revealed that cashing out from remittance centers remain to be a pain point for most Filipinos due to very stringent processes and documentation needed that cause long lines that are often very inconvenient for many Filipinos. 

But the days of physically going to a money remittance center, waiting in line for hours, and filling out paperwork may soon be over, as more and more Filipinos adapt to the digital lifestyle.

Today, leading the domestic e-money remittance market is GCash, the leading mobile wallet in the Philippines operated by Globe Fintech Innovations Inc. (Mynt). 

“We are mindful of the pain points in the domestic remittance market. We see this as an opportunity for us to offer our game-changing products that provide greater value and convenience to Filipinos. With the GCash Send Money feature, we are providing our users with a simpler and faster alternative for transferring money,” GCash’s Chief Commercial Officer for Transfers Frederic Levy said. 

Through the GCash app, Filipinos now have the option to transfer money for free to anyone, anywhere, and anytime. By simply downloading the GCash app, registering and funding the GCash wallet, an Aklanon local living in Metro Manila can now send money to his family in Aklan in just a minute. 

There will be no need to fill out forms or line up in kilometric queues to send money. The transfer is done in real time through a secure and safe GCash platform. 

GCash not only enables fast and free remittance, but it also allows the recipients to participate in the digital economy. Aside from sending and receiving money, GCash account holders can also create a savings account through GSave, or invest in a trust fund through Invest Money, or shop online, or top up their mobile accounts. 

They can also use their GCash wallets or use their e-wallets to pay for physical transactions -- for shopping for clothes, buying groceries, and purchasing movie tickets, among others. 

“GCash believes that leveraging in our technological capacities is key to serving our purpose -- our commitment to bring financial services to the underserved and unserved,” Levy said.

Duck Day Manila: Exquisitely DALEEcious Duck Meat is coming to PH

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Thinking of biting into a rich, good kind of fatty, and simply delicious piece of meat? You know you deserve it—and you’re now about to experience it! 

A fun-filled, historic event is going to happen this September 10, 2019, as Donny’s Fresh Seafood Company, together with the BR Group of companies, are set to launch Dalee duck in the Philippines in celebration of the first ever Duck Day Manila! Dalee ducks are known for their consistently high and tender quality and it is now time for Filipinos to get a taste of its exquisitely delicious meat. 

To be held at Conrad Hotel & Resorts, Duck Day Manila promises an exciting array of live cooking demos by Pinoy celebrity chefs Boy Logro, Gene Gonzales, Rosebud Benitez, Willment Leong, and Choi. Entertainment is also on the list as Tawag ng Tanghalan Grand Winner Janine Berdin will grace the event with an amazing performance along with Philippine Barangay Folk Dance Troupe.

Ultimately, the event aims to make September 10 as National Duck Day in the Philippines with the official declaration of Office of the President and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). 

BR Group and Donny’s Choice will also sponsor the Itik Festival in Victoria, Laguna and Balut Festival in Pateros, Manila. 

Alex Gonzaga as JAG Jeans newest brand Ambassador

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The Philippines’ denim brand has found its newest denim girl and she’s social media’s Most Influential local personality. 

Joining JAG Jeans’ roster of style stars is actress, singer, host and social media phenomenon Alex Gonzaga.With her witty Instagram posts and funny Youtube

 videos,Alex has won the hearts of millions of followers on social media, while her engaging personality is what caught JAG’s attention. 

As one of the country’s most popular content creators, the brand finds Alex’s personality synonymous to what JAG stands for – authentic, original, vibrant, stylish, and values its customers like family.

With her youthful energy, genuine wit and humor, and sense of style, JAG sees Alex as the perfect brand ambassador and denim girl for its newest product line, JAG. 

“I have always just wanted to be myself, to be comfortable with who I truly am… with my own brand of humor, my infinite energy and sense of style. JAG allows me to be all the things that I am,” shared Alex.

JAG Jeans especially created the J AG line for its younger market segment, featuring the latest in denim technology to keep up with today’s generation’s fun, active and creative lifestyles. The line will feature some of Alex’s favorite pieces such as the non-stretch/ comfort stretch boyfriend jeans, the 360 flex jeans made of 4-way stretch fabric, the JAG hoodie, along with a collection of shirts and jackets bearing the line’s special logo. This particular JAG selection gave special attention to comfort and unique styling.

This season, the JAG line pays tribute to the modern denim girl – unafraid, true to herself, knows what she wants, and inspires the same in others, just like Alex Gonzaga. The campaign theme exudes the 50’s diner denim chic vibe, featuring vintage Americana and bright neon lights.

At the recent JAG launch in Robinson’s Manila, Alex gamely mingled and conversed with her fans and members of the media, treating them to a number of fun and games. In line with Alex inspiring people to flaunt their own unique style, special guests were invited to decorate their JAG denim jackets with special limited edition patches. The activity kicked off JAG’s special promowhere customers, for a minimum additional amount, may avail of special JAG patches that they can use to DIY their JAG jeans and jackets.

The JAG collection is available in all leading department stores and JAG boutiques nationwide. 

LIKE and follow JAG Philippines on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jagjeans to find out more!

The secret treasure of natural beauty : Ruby Gems Collection

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Filipino-made skincare products, Ruby Gems Collection was launch on September 7, 2019 in ADB Avenue Tower, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. The unveiling was held by Fig Wellness and Products Distribution Center.

Ruby Gems Collection is named after Ms. Ruby Pacis, the CEO and Founding President of Faith in GOD RPM Professional and Technical Services Corporation, the mother company of FIG Wellness and Products Distribution Services.

The recently awarded 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by the Filipina Women's Network, Ms. Ruby C. Pacis, launched a new product line named after herself. Culled from years of trial-and-error, endless travel around the world, and numerous product purchases, Ms. Ruby finally discovered the perfect skincare suitable for the Asian skin.

On her birthday itself, Ms. Ruby unveiled the Ruby Gems Collection to the public which was attended by several press people and well-known individuals. The event was hosted by FIG Wellness and Products Distribution Services, a sub-business of Ms. Ruby's core company, Faith in GOD RPM Professional and Technical Services Corporation.

Ruby Gems Collection is a proudly Filipino-made skincare with natural organic ingredients formulated for the Asian skin. Ruby Gems has three individual collections:

First on the list is the "DIAMOND COLLECTION", perfect for skin whitening and anti-aging for individuals 30 years old and above. This collection includes a cleansing gel, balancing toner, whitening cream, exfoliating lotion, daily moisturizer and sunscreen cream SPF 35

The second collection is the "PINK TOURMALINE COLLECTION", excellent for skin brightening for individuals 20 years old and above. This set includes a brightening soap, brightening toner and a brightening cream.

Lastly is the "BLUE SAPPHIRE COLLECTION" which is recommended for individuals 25 years old and above who are concerned to maintain their youthful skin. This collection includes an exfoliant and revitalizer.

Apart from the proven-quality products, these collections come in very elegant pouches made after the color of its gem. These collections are to be distributed through our partner physicians, dermatologists, beauty clinics and soonest via online platforms.

Representing the Diamond Collection is Ms. Cristina Alejo-Gabriel, a wellness-advocate, cancer survivor and a gemologist. She was selected because of her clean living and good advocacy, embodying the beauty of a true natural Filipina. On the other hand, the face behind the Pink Tourmaline Collection is a self-supporting single mom, Ms. Shena Nava. She was selected for her dedication to maintain her beautiful skin despite being an on-the-go working mom. Lastly, the Blue Sapphire Collection is represented by a Filipino-Japanese young professional, Mr. Haru Lim, who greatly values the importance of maintaining a youthful look despite the stressing demands of the corporate environment.

“I am endorsing Ruby Gems because I believe in it, I believe in what Ruby Pacis creates because I know her so much. She places excellence and integrity in everything she does and I know this product will do the same in everyone who will trust to use it. You will not pick and try several different products to maintain your skin because all the skincare routine you need is here in this pouch of beauty”, said Ms. Cristina Gabriel.

"Ruby Gems is a result of my lifelong research to find a product that would complement my skin and most Asians like me. I am a cancer survivor that is why I ensures that my skin care products are not chemical-based and not harmful. Also, my past health treatment burned my skin causing dark blemishes to come out. These reasons compelled me to travel around the world and spend so much to find the perfect product that will be helpful to me. Ruby Gems helped me lighten my dark marks, reduces my fine lines and made my skin whiter. This Ruby Gems Collection is an answered prayer for me and this will be one of the frontline products of FIG Wellness and Products Distribution Center", said Ruby C. Pacis.

RUBY C. PACIS

Ruby is the CEO and Founding President of Faith in GOD RPM Professional and Technical Services Corporation. Finished a degree of Psychology in Far Eastern University, Ruby established a legacy being an expert in the field of Human Resources. This woman defeated her battles with Throat Cancer and stroke, and currently advocating holistic wellness. She is a life coach and an expert in counseling, helping countless individuals regain their hopes in life. Kids, persons with disabilities, single moms, and the elderly are very close to her heart. In fact, her company FIGRPMPTSC conducts a yearly outreach activity and device several programs to help these individuals. Ruby is a strong-minded woman who raised two God-fearing and equally intelligent sons. Ms. Pacis is also a multi-awarded personality and in fact, she was awarded as One of the Most Influential Filipina Women in the World.

 What makes Ruby Gems different from its competitors in the skincare industtry

- Ruby Gems Collection is a proudly Philippine-made product. It is formulated to complement the Filipino and generally, Asian people. It is organic and natural which is not harmful to human skin. Ruby Gems Collection comes in a very elegant packaging. Should you need a hand bag for your social event, you may use this, too! Lastly, comparing to its competitors, this Collection is more economical considering all the benefits you can get from it.

- The Suggested Retail Price of Ruby Gems Collections are as follows: 

-Diamond Collection: Php 8,000

- Blue Sapphire Collection: Php 3,500

- Pink Tourmaline Collection: Php 3,000

Ruby Gems Collection is available at FIG Body and Wellness Center here at Unit 3 Ground Floor, ADB Avenue Tower, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Soon, it will be available on selected Derm Clinics, partner physicians, online selling platforms and website.

What should customers expect upon using Ruby Gems Collectiin 

A. The Diamond Collection can address the following:

a. Oily skin, acne, and skin breakouts

b. Reduce large pores and cleanses the skin

c. Lightens the skin, remove dark spots and melisma

d. Exfoliates dead skin cells revealing the skin’s radiance

e. Hydrates the skin and eliminates the skin’s dryness

f. Protects the skin from harmful sunrays

B. The Pink Tourmaline Collection benefits the users as follows:

a. Makes the skin lighter and brightens the skin complexion.

b. Eliminates oil and acne-causing bacteria.

c. Removes dark spots, melasma, and unwanted hyperpigmentation.

d. Prevents the appearance of age spots, sun spots, and freckles.

C. The Blue Sapphire Collection can do the following:

a. Allows the dead cells to be removed consistently.

b. Reveals a fresh and glowing complexion.

c. Improves the elasticity of the skin.

d. Delays photo-induced aging, reduce fine lines and firms up the skin.

Ruby Gems Collection is sold per set because each product is created to complement one another to attain the intended results. Should the customer want to purchase an individual item included in the set which they bought, they may buy it at our FIG Mind and Wellness Center.

Kyle Echarri with Singaporean singer-songwriter Haven for a new collab single “Imagine”

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Young multi-talented artist Kyle Echarri embarks on yet another electrifying adventure as he creates beautiful music with Singaporean singer-songwriter Haven for a new track titled “Imagine.”

Kyle’s team-up with his fellow 16-year-old artist breaks new ground as it is the first international collaboration between StarPOP Philippines, Academy of Rock Singapore, and Cornerstone Music.

"The song 'Imagine' talks about two total strangers who live different lives but have a certain connection. The concept actually is that Haven is from Singapore, Kyle is from the Philippines, so it's like they're from different places and haven't met each other yet but they have a message that they want to convey to each other," StarPOP head Rox Santos explained.

“I really, really liked the story that's why when I did it, I was ecstatic about it and how the finished track turned out to be," Kyle added.

The song, composed by Star Music artist Trisha Denise and StarPOP head Rox Santos, complements Kyle’s pop-infused sound and Haven’s distinct, dreamy style of singing.

Singaporean musician and vocalist Haven started out as a student of Academy of Rock. She joined her first singing competition when she was 13, where she finished third. This, along with the help of the Academy of Rock, propelled her to continue performing at various events like the Singapore Street Festival.

"I want to be an artist that everyone can relate to. I want everyone to be very comfortable with my music, I don't want them to feel intimidated so ‘haven’ means safe place," shared Haven on the meaning behind her name.

The exciting collaboration also comes after Kyle released his “Pangako” single last year and his breakthrough in acting as “Kristoff” in the top-rating Kapamilya teleserye “Kadenang Ginto.”

The StarPOP artist, who joined “The Voice Kids” in 2015, is now one of the Kapamilya artists bridging the gap between the local and international music scene as ABS-CBN continues its campaign to introduce the talent of Filipinos to the world stage.

Listen to Kyle and Haven’s song “Imagine” on digital streaming services and check out its music video on MYX and Star Music’s YouTube channel. For more details, like StarPOP PH on facebook.com/starpopph, and follow it on and Instagram @starpopph.