PLDT Home Uncaps 5G+ Experience with Home WiFi

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PLDT Home ushers a new era of 5G technology in the country with the new PLDT Home WiFi 5G+, capable of delivering uncapped speeds of up to 1.5Gbps at the ground-breaking introductory price of only P1,495.

“PLDT Home has always been at the forefront of driving innovations in broadband technologies in the country. Backed by our robust network, our fixed wireless access (FWA) has the capability to deliver up to 1.5 Gbps. With an advanced device that connects to the 5G and 4G network, our PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ is changing the game in the wireless segment,” says Jeremiah de la Cruz, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Home Group.

PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ is leading the next wave of fixed wireless evolution for Filipinos. "As we continue to expand our network nationwide, our customers on 4G can already enjoy its benefits now and look forward to the 5G experience with our continuous 5G roll-out. With the continued demand for fixed wireless solutions in the country, our focus remains – to deliver reliable connectivity for our customers’ better digital experiences at home,” he adds.

Delivering Gigabit speeds with 5G+

In today’s digital world, a strong internet connection is essential for work, school, and staying connected with loved ones. PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ features WiFi 6 technology that addresses these needs head-on, capable of speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps.

WiFi 6 offers dual band, built-in antenna and connects up to 15 devices at home, ensuring that everyone in the family can stay connected. This technology supports faster data transfer and higher bandwidth compared to earlier standards other internet providers still use. This enhances speed, range, and performance, ensuring seamless 4K streaming, smooth online gaming, and uninterrupted video calls for remote work or online classes.

Offering flexible connectivity

PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ stands out for its affordability and flexibility. The reloadable prepaid model allows families to manage their internet expenses effectively, avoiding installation fees and giving them control over their usage—perfect for those on a budget.

Its plug-and-play setup is user-friendly, requiring no complex installation, and customers can easily top up their data with options like FamLoad All Access, Unlifam, and Magic Data. With load prices starting at just ₱99, families can tailor their WiFi access to fit their daily needs.

To kickstart the real 5G experience, PLDT Home WiFi 5G+ offers unlimited WiFi for 15 days without any speed cap, available upon successful registration of the SIM that comes with the device.

Widest network in PH

The PLDT Group’s continued investments in enhancing its integrated network and in innovating its products and services are aligned with the group’s commitment to democratize access to the latest technologies like 5G, enable 5G for all, and deliver leveled-up customer experience across the country. Its mobile network Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) covers 97% of the population and is part of the Philippines’ largest integrated network that includes PLDT’s most extensive fiber infrastructure.

This initiative contributes to the PLDT Group’s endeavors to narrow the digital divide, provide connectivity to all, and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. These also reinforce the Group’s support for the Government's overall digitalization thrust.

For more information on PLDT Home WiFi, visit PLDT Home WiFi 5G+.

Big Bad Wolf Books’ Guide to Finding the Perfect Gift

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As the holiday season approaches and the joy of giving fills the air, it's time to think about gifts that are meaningful, thoughtful, and long-lasting. Big Bad Wolf Books believes that books are the ultimate timeless gift, one that holds infinite value for both the giver and the recipient.

1.    Meaningful and Thoughtful

A book is more than just a gift—it’s a reflection of thoughtfulness. Choosing a book that speaks to your loved one’s needs or interests makes your gift feel extra special. Do they need a good laugh? A little inspiration? Or maybe a thrilling adventure? A well-chosen book shows that you truly know and care about them and that you’ve put real thought into their gift, making it that much more special.

Furthermore, when you give someone a book, you’re not just giving them an object—you’re offering them an experience, a journey, and a chance to connect with the stories and lessons inside. Books allow you to share something meaningful, whether it’s a childhood favorite that shaped who you are or a powerful story that touched your heart. The joy of giving a book comes from knowing that you're giving more than a present—you’re giving the gift of imagination, knowledge, and adventure.

2. Timeless Eco-friendly Treasure

Books have a timeless quality, never losing their value or relevance. They aren’t disposable items; instead, they are treasures to collect, or share. Always ready to be picked up, revisited, and appreciated, they leave lasting imprints on our hearts and minds.

For both children and adults, books are gifts that become cherished treasures, offering knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration that last for years. Whether it’s an epic adventure, an inspiring biography, or a guide to personal growth., books open up endless possibilities. When you give a book, you give a gift that never stops giving.

3. Universal Appeal

With so many genres to choose from, books are a gift for all ages and tastes. From young readers to adults, books are a gift that spans generations. For kids, books spark imagination and teach valuable lessons. For young professionals, they can offer career inspiration, while adults can find wisdom and joy in books that help improve their lives and relationships. Imaginative stories for children, swoon-worthy romances for your besties, empowering self-help books for your go-getter friends—there’s a book for everyone on your list! Plus, Big Bad Wolf Books has over two million titles, so you’re bound to find the perfect match.

4. Big Bad Wolf’s Mission to Spread the Joy of Reading

Driven by a strong belief in the power of books, Big Bad Wolf Books is committed to spreading the joy of reading to as many people as possible. Beyond selling books, the organization aspires to make books accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or economic status.

The goal is to promote literacy and foster a love of reading in communities around the world. Big Bad Wolf Books seeks to create a world where books open doors to new opportunities, learning, and growth for all. By partnering with various organizations, Big Bad Wolf Books supports educational programs, donates books to schools and libraries, and empowers readers of all ages.

5. A Gift with Purpose: Books That Change Lives

Shopping at Big Bad Wolf Books means more than just buying a gift, it’s supporting a movement to make reading accessible for all. Every purchase helps further their mission to provide books to underprivileged communities, promote literacy, and encourage lifelong learning. It’s a gift that delights your loved ones while contributing to a larger cause: nurturing a new generation of readers.

6. Celebrate the Season of Giving with Big Bad Wolf Books

This Christmas, give gifts that last a lifetime. With Big Bad Wolf’s amazing book sales, finding the perfect gift has never been easier. Whether it’s a magical tale for a child, a motivational read for a friend, or a timeless classic for a family member, there’s a book waiting to make this holiday season truly special. Fill this season of giving with purpose, joy, and the magic of books.

This Christmas, don’t hesitate! Fill your totes with books that will bring joy, wonder, and lasting memories to everyone on your nice list.

Not sure what books to get your loved ones? Check out our list below!

Disney Storybook Collection ADVENT CALENDAR

The Wish by Nicholas Sparks

Badass Habits by Jen Sincero

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

The Nutcracker Illustrated by Margarida Esteves

Drop by the Big Bad Wolf’s Book Sale at the Veranza Activity Center, KCC Mall of GenSan, until October 26. Doors open at 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. As always, admission is free!

Happy gifting from Big Bad Wolf Books!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)

vivo launches V40 Lite with 5000mAh battery covered by 50-month warranty, starts at Php 13,999

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Get ready to take your tech experience to the next level! vivo launches the V40 Lite TODAY, October 19, 2024 (Saturday) at the vivo concept store in One Ayala Mall, Makati City.

The brand's newest release packs a punch with standout specs including the 50MP AI Aura Portrait camera system and trendy colorways. The ultimate clincher? Its powerful 5000mAh battery is covered by an incredible 50-month warranty.

Perfect for multi-hyphenates, from peak professionals and budding creators to everyday users, the vivo V40 Lite comes with powerhouse features to satisfy these dynamic roles.

Stay powered up all day with its 5000mAh battery

Living life at full speed and managing multiple tasks? This device is a reliable partner to power through the 

The vivo V40 Lite's impressive 5000mAh battery guarantees day-to-night performance without hassle. When a power boost is required, its 80W fast-charging technology enables users to attain 80% battery in 30 minutes and fully charge in as fast as 43 minutes.

Enjoy the pre-order perk starting TODAY

A special 4-year battery warranty is offered exclusively to those who pre-order a unit from today until October 31, 2024.

Those eligible can activate the warranty if the battery capacity is below 80% within four years of purchase. Once assessed at an authorized vivo service center, the battery can be replaced once without costs using the issued coupon code.

These users can ensure their V40 Lite battery protection by following these easy instructions. Open the "vivo store" application, go to "Support" Tab, go to "E-Warranty Card", then press "Activate Now". The VIP Card must also be presented when redeeming this benefit.

With its supreme battery capacity, combined with this exclusive warranty, the vivo V40 Lite is undoubtedly the most durable smartphone in its price range.

And there’s even more! Discover the other features of this high-performance smartphone:

Resistance to dust and moisture. The vivo V40 Lite is equipped with a strong IP64 rating, providing excellent protection for outdoor use. This allows users to navigate the device seamlessly in challenging conditions, be it rainy or dusty, making it the ideal smartphone for all heavy users.

Advanced camera technology. With its 50MP AI Aura Portrait, users can create stunning portraits featuring exceptional detail and vibrant hues, and the 32MP Selfie Camera lets them showcase their personalities in sharp, clear quality.

Cutting-edge AI capabilities. The best creative tool for social media savvies and aspiring photographers alike. This smartphone comes with AI Photo Enhance and AI Erase features that automatically optimize images to achieve visually appealing and polished results without heavy editing.

Versatile colorways. The vivo V40 Lite is available in three classic color options: Titanium Silver, Dynamic Black, and Dreamy Violet, each designed to complement the user's fashion choices seamlessly.

With a starting price of Php 13,999, the vivo V40 Lite, in 4G and 5G variants, certainly showcases an extensive range of outstanding features, positioning itself as a competitive alternative to high-end smartphones, all without the hefty price tag!

To learn more about the vivo V40 Lite, visit the official vivo website and social media accounts Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Holiday Escapes: How Filipinos Travel, Shop, and Pay During the Season

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Survey by Visa shows Filipinos' shift toward contactless payments, experience-driven travel; Singapore and Japan preferred holiday destinations

It’s the holiday season—at least for Filipinos—and with it comes a surge in holiday shopping, travel, get-togethers, and festive activities. With the season being a peak time for getaways, Filipinos prioritize experience-driven travel, with Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan being top destinations. Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar survey[1] reveals a significant shift in how Filipinos plan and pay for their travels, showing a growing preference for contactless payments alongside the continued use of cash.

Travelling for new experiences, shopping

For Filipino travelers, the holiday season is an opportunity to explore new experiences and create lasting memories as travel peaks in December, with 32% of surveyed respondents planning domestic trips and 23% choosing international destinations.

The survey found that most Filipinos travel to relax (80%) and seek new experiences (43%). While sightseeing remains the top activity (82%), experiencing local cuisine and dining (67%) and shopping (67%) are also key priorities. This shows that Filipinos are looking for destinations that offer a blend of leisure, entertainment, and adventure.

Singapore, a long-time favorite, emerged as the top destination for Filipino travelers over the past 12 months, with 38% of respondents visiting the city-state. Singapore continues to draw Filipino tourists with its vibrant blend of urban attractions and rich cultural experiences. Its close proximity to the Philippines, ease of access, and wide range of activities makes it an ideal choice, especially during the holiday season.

Hong Kong remains a favorite at 31%, particularly for travelers who enjoy combining shopping with festive celebrations. Its expansive retail scene and diverse culinary offerings make it appealing to Filipino families seeking both luxury and bargain shopping experiences.

Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes, festive markets and shopping districts alongside its deep cultural heritage, is another popular destination, with 30% of Filipinos visiting to experience the Land of the Rising Sun.

As Filipinos head overseas, many are also drawn to the Philippines as a tourist destination. Inbound travel to the Philippines is also on the rise, with the country welcoming 3.66 million international visitors from January to August 2024—a 10.14% increase from the same period last year, according to the Department of Tourism.[2] Additionally, data from the World Travel and Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR) forecasts that international and domestic tourism spending will reach P715.6 billion and P3.7 trillion, respectively, surpassing 2019 figures by 5.7% and 1.8%.[3]

Jeff Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “At Visa, we are committed to ensuring a seamless, secure, and convenient experience for Filipino travelers heading abroad and for inbound visitors to the Philippines. We recognize that tourism plays a vital role in the economy, contributing to job creation and overall growth. We’re working to support the Filipino government's efforts to enhance tourism by improving digital payment methods and providing tourists with an enjoyable experience, which will help to further drive economic development and strengthen the tourism industry.”

Visa helps drive the growth of tourism in the Philippines by leveraging its global network and collaborating with local markets to promote the acceptance of Visa cards, creating a more enjoyable payments experience for tourists. In the Philippines, Visa supports small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by providing tools and knowledge for cashless transactions such as the SME Online Toolkit. Post-COVID, Visa launched the POSM Visibility Initiative to enhance marketing materials in tourist hotspots. Additionally, Visa partnered with the Pacific Asia Travel Association to conduct finance and digital skills workshops for tourism SMEs and Department of Tourism officials, benefiting 120 participants across Southeast Asia including Laguna in the Philippines.

Shift in Payment Preferences: Contactless and Cash

A key trend emerging in Filipino travel habits is the shift toward contactless payments. In a survey commissioned by Visa done by YouGov[4] in Aug 2024 reveals that 66% of Filipino travelers now prefer using contactless methods like mobile wallets and tap-to-pay cards, while 67% said they will likely get cards with contactless features.

"As cross-border travel continues to grow, Visa sees a tremendous opportunity to remain a key part of the traveler’s journey. The convenience and security of digital payment options give travelers greater confidence when making transactions abroad—whether they are booking accommodation, dining, or shopping. Our goal is to continue supporting travelers at every stage, from planning and booking to the entirety of their trip, by encouraging the use of Visa for a seamless, secure, and hassle-free payment experience," Navarro added.

Despite the rise in contactless payments, 71% of holiday travelers still carry cash as a backup, particularly in areas where digital payment infrastructure may not be as widely available. The continued use of cash illustrates that there is some way to go towards full contactless payments, especially for holiday destinations that have not fully shifted to cashless payments.

As the holiday season approaches, the preference for more experience-driven travel, combined with evolving payment methods, reflects the changing dynamics of how Filipinos shop, pay, and explore the world. Whether through cash or contactless payments, the essence of Filipino travel remains centered around creating memories and sharing moments with loved ones—values that are as enduring as the destinations themselves.

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[1]Green Shoots Radar survey survey with 9,900 respondents across 17 markets in Asia Pacific, including 500 Filipinos, survey period in Jun 2024.

[2] Department of Tourism. (2024). VISITOR ARRIVALS RANKING BY COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE. In Department of Tourism. Retrieved September 25, 2024, from http://www.tourism.gov.ph/files/2024/tourism_demand/09/09-04/JAN-AUG.pdf

[3] World Travel & Tourism Council. (2024, February 2). news-article. https://wttc.org/news-article/philippines-travel-and-tourism-sector-set-for-historic-year

[4] Visa’s AP Consumer Payment Preferences Survey conducted by YouGov surveying 16,308 from 14 markets (1,045 from the Philippines), survey period Aug-Sept 2024

Single largest contribution to date: SMAC donates Php 14.93M to Globe’s Hapag Movement

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Multi-year partnership contributes to uplifting Filipino lives

Reaffirming its commitment to addressing involuntary hunger, SMAC has donated Php 14.93 million to Globe’s Hapag Movement, marking a significant milestone in Globe’s drive to beat involuntary hunger and uplift communities across the country in time for World Food Day.

This is the largest single corporate donation to date for the Globe-led hunger alleviation program, which supports the supplemental feeding and livelihood training of 100,000 Filipino families.

Unite for Hapag this World Food Day. Globe and SMAC celebrate their joint effort that raised Php 14.93M to be donated to the Hapag Movement. IN PHOTO (L-R): Hapag Movement mobilization partners David Jo, Head of Partnerships, Communications and Reports, UN World Food Programme; Eduardo Jimenez, Vice Chairperson, World Vision Philippines; Jun Godornes, Director for Resource Development, World Vision Philippines; Cel Amores, Senior Director for Corporate Communications, Ayala Foundation; Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, Globe; Kevin Hartigan Go, Chief Operating Officer, SMAC; and Yara Macalindong, VP for Sales and Marketing, SMAC.

The funds were raised in the second round of SMAC’s partnership with the Hapag Movement, focusing on SMAC kits sold and members’ points donation through eligible purchases from SM Store and other SM retail partners from December 2023 to January 2024. The donation will be distributed to key mobilization and program implementation partners of the Hapag Movement, among them the Ayala Foundation, Tzu Chi Foundation, the United Nations World Food Programme, and World Vision.

The Hapag Movement has provided meals to over 154,000 family members, with 2,784 heads of households receiving livelihood training. Impressively, 2,361 of these individuals have successfully continued running their small businesses, highlighting the program’s role in fostering sustainable community growth.

"We are deeply grateful to our partners for closely working with us on this life-changing initiative. Together, we are creating a meaningful shift in consumer behavior, where Filipino shoppers are inspired to consider not only their personal needs but also the collective well-being,” said Yaracel S. Macalindong, VP for Sales and Marketing, SMAC.

The growing success of the partnership also reflects the importance of corporate collaboration in addressing social issues.

“Our partnership with SMAC is a testament to the power of collective action. Seeing the impact of the Hapag Movement firsthand among families we have supported so far is truly inspiring. We are incredibly grateful for this substantial donation from SMAC, which will help us expand our reach and provide vital support to families whose lives we have yet to touch,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

has created valuable opportunities for our members to engage in meaningful contributions. It enables them to actively give back to their communities and make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. This collaboration empowers members to be part of something greater, fostering a sense of purpose and social responsibility," said Kevin Hartigan-Go, Chief Operating Officer of Digital Advantage Corp (DAC).

“This partnership goes beyond seasonal efforts, providing sustainable support to families. By helping stave off involuntary hunger and enabling households to improve their livelihood, we’re building a foundation for lasting change. We are excited to continue this work and invite other organizations to collaborate with us so that together, we can make a difference,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe.

Looking ahead to their third fundraising round in December, SMAC and the Hapag Movement are creating more opportunities for Filipino shoppers to transform their purchases into acts of kindness and community support.

SMAC’s first partnership with the Hapag Movement in 2022 raised Php 5.5 million, benefiting 55,000 individuals and counting. Year 2 received a boost from the participation of 13 different brands apart from SMAC: SM Appliance Center, SM Beauty, SM Fashion, The Body Shop, Crate & Barrel, ECCO, Forever 21, Kultura, Levi's, Our Home, Simply Shoes, Sports Central, and Surplus. This alongside the doubled online engagement for last holiday’s campaign significantly increased the funds gathered for the cause.

Globe and SMAC encourage more companies to #UniteForHapag and work together to deliver impactful, long-term solutions for Filipino families in need, helping to create sustainable change that uplifts communities across the country. As it nears its multi-year target, the program will ramp up with expanded livelihood training initiatives and support for nutritious feeding in public schools through its partners to prevent child stunting.

Visit the Hapag Movement page on the Globe website to learn how to help.