Visa expands consumer choice with e-wallet partnerships in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

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Visa, a global leader in digital payments, is actively supporting Southeast Asia's journey into becoming a cashless society. As mobile wallet usage grows in the region, Visa enhances consumer options by enabling cardholders to use their cards directly with merchants or e-wallets such as Maya and GrabPay in the Philippines.

Jeff Navarro, Visa Country Manager for the Philippines, said: “Visa’s research found that in the Philippines, 87% of surveyed respondents have used their mobile wallets in the last 12 months[1]. Our partnerships with e-wallets in the Philippines enable Visa cardholders to cash in their wallets using their cards issued in the Philippines, which is in alignment with the growing preference for cashless transactions in the Philippines. These partnerships provide consumers with more choices and support small businesses by enhancing their ability to accept payments, keeping pace with the expanding use of digital payment methods like cards and mobile wallets. At Visa, we're committed to broadening access to diverse digital payment options that are seamless and secure, to promote financial and digital inclusion."

In the Philippines, Visa cardholders can cash in their Maya wallets for free as part of the “Cash-In for Free” program, effective starting May 1, 2024. This offer is available during the promotional period to all Maya wallet users with a mobile number from any local telco provider who is currently residing in the Philippines.

Additionally, GrabPay users can continue to cash into their wallets for free with their Visa debit, credit, or prepaid cards, benefiting consumers and small businesses through the wider acceptance of mobile wallets. GrabPay users also have the option to set up automatic reloads, which replenish their wallet balances once they drop below a specific amount, creating a seamless payment experience.

Coexistence of cards and digital wallets, a rising trend in SEA

Across the region, Visa has likewise forged partnerships with Vietnam’s MoMo, VNPAY, and ZaloPay, alongside Indonesia’s DANA to provide Southeast Asia with seamless digital wallet funding options as Visa’s latest Consumer Payment Attitudes study shows that more than a quarter of cash-ins to e-wallets come from either bank accounts or credit and debit cards. This trend simplifies transactions by eliminating the need for repeated credential entry.

Previous Visa research supports this trend revealing that during the first half of 2023, one in three respondents applied for a new card, with 43% motivated by the desire to integrate these cards into mobile wallets, thus highlighting the growing convergence and coexistence of cards and digital wallets.

While the majority of payments are made from existing e-wallet balances, Visa's latest Green Shoots Radar survey[2] found that consumers use their cards as a source of mobile wallet funding at 29% for Indonesia, 24% in the Philippines, and 39% of surveyed consumers in Vietnam. Respondents cited convenience, the ability to track expenses, seamlessness, and security as some of the top factors for topping up their wallets using cards.

Poojyata Khattar, Head of Products and Solutions, Southeast Asia, said: “Innovation and strategic alliances are vital to advancing the payments system. Visa is broadening consumer options by partnering with leading e-wallets in the region to allow consumers to use their choice of funding methods, including their Visa cards. By collaborating with Southeast Asian e-wallets, Visa is set to revolutionize payment methods, creating a future for the payments industry focused on convenience, reliability, and security”

As Southeast Asia continues to embrace the integration of cards and digital wallets, Visa empowers individuals and businesses by providing access and fostering a more open and inclusive economy.

[1] Visa’s Consumer Payment Attitudes 2024 study, surveying more than 6,550 consumers across Southeast Asia.

[2] Green Shoots Radar survey survey with 9,900 respondents across 17 markets in Asia Pacific, survey period in Jun 2024.

ArenaPlus gifts P5 Million to brand ambassador and double Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo

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Carlos Yulo’s hard work and dedication resulted in the historic win of two gold medals in 

men’s artistic gymnastics.

ArenaPlus joins the rest of the nation by celebrating the momentous double gold medal victory of Carlos “Golden Boy” Yulo in the 2024 Olympic Games. To honor Yulo’s historic achievement, ArenaPlus is awarding the Olympian an “Astig Hero Bonus” of ₱5,000,000 in cash. This gesture of ArenaPlus’ pride and gratitude to Yulo for representing the country in the most prestigious sporting event in the world.

DigiPlus, the parent company of sports betting platform ArenaPlus, has been proudly championing Carlos Yulo since the start of the Olympic games. As one of ArenaPlus’ official brand ambassadors, Yulo has had the company’s full support throughout the entirety of his Olympic campaign.

In a pre-Olympics send off with representatives from ArenaPlus, Yulo even spoke on the value of his partnership with the company. “Maraming maraming salamat po na recognize niyo po ako at gusto niyo ko supportahan,” he said. “Ibubuhos ko lahat at tatapatan ko po yung mga suportahan at salamat sa suporta niyong lahat at ipagdasal natin ang mga kasaling atleta sa Olympics.”

Yulo’s hard work and dedication resulted in the historic win of two gold medals in men’s artistic gymnastics in the men’s floor and men’s vault exercises. The victory makes him only the second ever Filipino Olympic gold medalist, and the most awarded one in history.

DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio H. Tanco spoke on the hopes for Yulo’s future after these Olympic games. “Carlos Yulo truly embodies the ‘astig’ Pinoy spirit,” said Tanco. “We coudn’t be prouder of how he has represented both our country and DigiPlus. Our warmest congratulations to him!”

ArenaPlus is awarding the Olympian an “Astig Hero Bonus” of ₱5,000,000 in cash.

Yulo’s success in the Olympics also aligns with ArenaPlus’ vision of a thriving and diverse interest in sports here in the Philippines. With the money provided by ArenaPlus, Yulo now has the means and funding to further hone his skills and improve his training conditions. This will only aid him in his athletic career moving forward, setting him up for greater success down the line.

As one of ArenaPlus’ official brand ambassadors, Yulo has had the company’s full support throughout the entirety of his Olympic campaign.

 Yulo is only the second ever Filipino Olympic gold medalist, and the most awarded one in history.

ArenaPlus joins the rest of the nation by celebrating the momentous double gold medal victory of Carlos “Golden Boy” Yulo in the 2024 Olympic Games

At the same time, ArenaPlus hopes Yulo’s victory turns eyes to the wide variety of athletic endeavors that can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Young athletes should consider a wide variety of sports, and their interest should be nurtured. It’s only through young people exploring the diverse options of various sports that the country can achieve the highest potential of the Filipino athlete.

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. ArenaPlus, the leading sports betting app that provides various sports live streaming in the Philippines, serving as the leading sports entertainment gateway of Filipinos. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph or www.arenaplus.ph.

Travel solo, pose confidently: vivo Y28's selfie hack for perfect shots using Dynamic Light

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In recent years, solo traveling has gained immense popularity among Filipinos seeking adventure, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with the world.

Whether just exploring the vibrant streets of Manila, lounging on the pristine beaches of Palawan, or trekking the majestic mountains of Banaue, solo travel offers the perfect opportunity for personal growth and unforgettable experiences.

Capturing these moments through selfies has become essential for immortalizing memories and sharing stories with family and friends back home.

One of the best ways to capture your solo travel adventures is by taking selfies with your smartphone. While front cameras are great for quick snaps, the rear camera usually provides better quality and can capture wider shots of the breathtaking scenery around you.

Challenge of using the rear camera for selfies

Using the rear camera for selfies can be challenging because you can't see the screen, making it difficult to know when to pose.

Timing your shots perfectly without a clear view can often lead to missed moments and awkward angles.

Fortunately, there's a solution to this problem that will elevate your selfie game while traveling solo.

Selfie countdown hack using vivo Y28's exclusive Dynamic Light

Enter the vivo Y28, a smartphone designed with features that cater to the needs of solo travelers.

The vivo Y28 offers an exclusive feature called Dynamic Light, which synchronizes with the camera’s countdown timer. This feature flashes until the photo is taken, ensuring you know exactly when to strike a pose.

No more guessing when the photo will be captured as the vivo Y28 makes it effortless to capture picture-perfect selfies with the rear camera. To ensure you get the best shot, using a portable tripod with your phone is recommended.

How to use the Dynamic Light feature

Using the Dynamic Light feature on your vivo Y28 is simple:

1. Open the Camera app on your vivo Y28.
2. Click on the Settings icon.
3. Navigate to More Settings.
4. Turn on Countdown Flash.

Now, you’re ready to capture stunning selfies without the guesswork, making your solo travel experience even more enjoyable and hassle-free.

In addition, the vivo Y28 boasts a powerful 50MP HD main camera, capable of capturing crystal-clear images from every angle. Want proof? Check these out:

Whether you're snapping a photo of the scenic Chocolate Hills in Bohol or capturing the sunset at Boracay, you can trust the vivo Y28 to deliver vibrant, high-quality photos that preserve every detail of your travel experiences.

The vivo Y28 is also an ideal travel companion for adventurers. With a robust 6000mAh battery, you won't have to worry about running out of power during your travels. Its IP64 rating ensures it can withstand dust and splashes, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

With 8GB RAM, 8GB extended RAM, and up to 256GB storage, the vivo Y28 ensures you have plenty of space to store all your travel photos, videos, and apps. No need to worry about running out of space while documenting your journey.

The vivo Y28 is available for as low as Php 7,999, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. You can purchase it at vivo concept stores and kiosks nationwide or shop online via the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada.

Embrace the freedom of solo travel and let vivo Y28 be your trusted companion in capturing every moment. With its Dynamic Light and other powerful features, have fun immortalizing your memories on your next solo travel journey with the vivo Y28!

Ascorbic acid (Poten-Cee) Is Fifty, Fortified, and Forging Forward

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The top adult plain vitamin C brand¹ pays it forward on its 50th

To celebrate 50 years of supporting Filipinos’ varying Vitamin C needs and to thank its customers for their continued support, the top Vitamin C brand (adult, plain category) Ascorbic acid (Poten-Cee) Vitamin C,¹ launches its milestone campaign, Fifty, Fortified, and Forging Forward. 

 

Poten-Cee Is Fifty 

Poten-Cee, proudly from PascualLab, one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines,¹ traces its humble beginnings to the post-war era, supporting the Vitamin C needs of Filipinos. Today, it has evolved into one of the top Vitamin C brands offering variants that help fulfill different needs and that support different lifestyles. 

From Poten-Cee's early ventures to its latest products, the brand consistently showcases a commitment to innovation. Poten-Cee Sugar-Coated which was launched in 1974, was designed with a shell coating to mask the sour taste of Ascorbic acid. This coating with its candy-like taste and appearance, also made the tablet smoother and easier to swallow. 

 

Through the years, Poten-Cee has also formulated adult to pedia variants to suit Filipinos’ diverse needs and preferences: 

• Ascorbic acid as Sodium Ascorbate (Poten-Cee NA)² and Poten-Cee Plus for adults and children who prefer a vitamin C in non-acidic format³  

• Ascorbic acid (Poten-Cee Chewable), a convenient format for those who are always on the go 

• Ascorbic acid (Poten-Cee Forte) 1000 mg with 8-hour time release for those who prefer a higher dose of Vitamin C        

• Ascorbic acid (Poten-Cee Sugar-Free) for those watching their blood sugar.   

Poten-Cee's Beauty of Immunity 

In 2016, Poten-Cee introduced the tagline “The Beauty of Immunity.”  Aside from Vitamin C helping to fortify immunity which is vital to good health, it is also essential in collagen production to help support healthy skin.  Still in line with this message, PascualLab’s flagship brand launched Poten-Cee + C in 2022.  Poten-Cee + C is a food supplement which combines Vitamin C and Hydrolyzed Collagen.  

 

Poten-Cee Is Fortified 

 

Among Poten-Cee's newer variants are Poten-Cee + Zn (Ascorbic acid + Zinc) and  Poten-Cee + Zn Advance (Ascorbic acid + Zinc + Cholecalciferol) which were both launched in 2021. Poten-Cee + ZN combines Vitamin C that supports immunity and Zinc that helps protect cells from viral infections, among other benefits.  Meanwhile Poten-Cee Zn Advance combines active ingredients that play critical roles in immune function, inflammatory response, and collagen synthesis.^4-9 

Poten-Cee Is Forging Forward 

This year, as part of the brand’s forging forward, Poten-Cee unveiled a new offering of Poten-Cee + C. Poten-Cee + C Marine Collagen has Sodium Ascorbate (Vitamin C in non-acidic format)³ and Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen sourced from fish. ¹⁰ With this introduction, Poten-Cee + C now has options that offer consumers type 1 collagen sourced from fish (marine collagen) and type 2 collagen, from bovine or animal sources (original variant). 

Poten-Cee is Paying Forward 

And to thank Filipino families for all the years of support, Poten-Cee is also paying it forward.  Through the years, Poten-Cee has been making sizeable donations to sectors in need including survivors of the recent Typhoon Carina.

As Poten-Cee celebrates 50 years of providing consumers with trusted Vitamin C products, it wishes to extend its deepest gratitude for the unwavering support given by Filipinos. This has been the cornerstone of its success, inspiring the brand to continually innovate and improve, more so in the years to come. 

 

Poten-Cee is available in all leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide and at PascualLab’s official TikTok, Shopee, & Lazada stores. Follow us on PotenCee_PH, FB & IG. 

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*IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR. 

**"MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG POTEN-CEE + C AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANO MANG URI NG SAKIT 

References: 

¹IQVIA 2022 Data 

²Per FDA-approved CPR DRP 8842 

³National Library of Medicine. Sodium Ascorbate. PubChem. In: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/com pound/sodium_ascorbate#section=Top. Accessed August 2020. 

⁴Aranow C. Vitamin D and the Immune System. J Investig Med. 2011; 59(6): 881–886. doi:10.231/JIM.0b013e31821b8755.  

⁵Pullar J, Carr A, Vissers M. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017; 9(8): 866. DOI: 10.3390/nu9080866  

⁶The Nutrition Source: Zinc. Harvard School of Public Health. In https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/ nutr itionsource/zinc/". accessed August 2020. 

⁷Wessels I, Rolles B, Rink L. The Potential Impact of Zinc Supplementation on COVID-19 Pathogenesis. Front Immunol. 2020; 11: 1712. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01712  

⁸Pugh, Nikki. Collagen-boosting effects of zinc. In https://organixx.com/benefits-of-zinc-collagen/ accessed May 2024 

⁹Bickle, Daniel. Vitamin D Regulation of Immune Function. In https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9065668/ Accessed July 2024 

¹⁰Campos P, Franco R, Kakuda L, et al. Oral Supplementation with Hydrolyzed Fish Cartilage Improves the Morphological and Structural Characteristics of the Skin: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Molecules. 2021; 26(4880): 1-15. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26164880 

“Ihain ang Saya” – Judy Ann Santos and daughter Luna show how everyday dishes can be made more exciting

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In many of today’s Filipino homes, the “joy” of serving some dishes has begun to fade. Beloved meals like the humble omelette sometimes becomes repetitive, boring, and joyless, no longer sparking excitement at the family table.

With Filipino culture being deeply intertwined with family meals—a space where stories are shared, laughter is abundant, and bonds are strengthened—uninspired or “paulit-ulit” meals lose their ability to bring joy and excitement, leading to “pagsasawa” (boredom) for both kids and their parents.

In their latest heartwarming TV commercial, Filipino actress Judy Ann Santos and her daughter, Luna, perfectly capture this all-too-familiar scenario. Judy Ann, as a concerned mom, serves daily dishes to Luna, who shows visible signs that she wants something else, something better. Judy Ann wonders what she could do to make Luna enjoy her meals more—an instance relatable to many of today’s moms.

Then, a spark of inspiration strikes. Judy Ann reaches for a block of Eden Cheese, and with a few simple steps, her dull dishes are transformed into mouthwatering creations. Luna’s eyes light up with delight, Judy Ann dances with energy, and the kitchen is once again filled with joy and excitement.

The mother-daughter duo exemplifies how, with Eden Cheese, happiness can be served once again, bringing smiles back to families’ faces. With Eden as a source of true inspiration, more Filipino moms can be empowered and encouraged to create more delicious meals that will surely be loved by those who matter most to them.

The video is more than just a commercial; it’s a heartwarming reminder of how Eden Cheese can enhance the flavors and versions of everyday dishes, empowering and inspiring moms to create meals that not only taste great but also helps nourish the body —with milk vitamins (A, B2, D), Calcium, and Zinc—and warm hearts.

“At Eden, we believe that through every dish there is an opportunity to serve joy,” says Mark Banawa, Marketing Manager of Eden Cheese. “Our collaboration with Judy Ann Santos and Luna perfectly captures this belief. By showing how the simple act of adding Eden Cheese can help transform a “paulit-ulit” meal into an exciting experience, we hope to empower moms across the Philippines to rediscover the inspiration of home dishes, helping them to win against the ‘sawa’ that’s likely being experienced.”

Judy Ann Santos, a dedicated mom, shares her excitement and perspective about the collaboration.

“As a mom, I always want to create meals that my family loves. Presenting this story with Eden Cheese and my daughter Luna has been a wonderful experience. We’re all reminded that with simple creativity and the right ingredients, we can make every meal special. Kaya ngayon, maghain tayo ng saya, lahat tayo mga moms ay ma-inspire na with Eden.”

Eden invites more moms to be inspired and join the movement of “serving joy” to their families. Whether it’s adding a creamy and “malinamnam” twist to an old favorite or experimenting with new versions of their daily recipes, Eden Cheese is their partner in creating joy in every bite.