Popeyes Boosts Operational Efficiency with Paywatch’s EWA Program

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Popeyes Philippines, a global fast-food brand renowned for its Southern-style fried chicken and Cajun-inspired cuisine, has partnered with Paywatch to offer Earned Wage Access (EWA) as a new employee benefit. This initiative represents a new-generation approach to enhancing financial support for its workforce.

 Executives and team members from Paywatch and Popeyes Philippines gathered to celebrate their new partnership, which aims to empower Popeyes employees with on-demand Earned Wage Access (EWA)

This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing financial wellness for the Filipino workforce in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.

Popeyes returned to the Philippines in 2019 and has quickly expanded to over 50 outlets nationwide. With a focus on modernization and digital transformation, the company’s commitment to innovation extends to employee welfare. In an industry characterized by rapid growth and high employee turnover, Popeyes aims to improve workforce well-being with EWA—a program that enables employees to access a portion of their wages before payday. This service provides greater financial flexibility for daily expenses and emergencies, helping to reduce reliance on short-term loans.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency Amid Industry Growth

As the demand for convenience food continues to surge, the Philippines' quick service restaurant (QSR) market is projected to reach $7.9 billion by 2026, driven by the fast-paced lifestyle and evolving preferences of Filipino consumers, according to Allied Market Research.[1] To keep up with this anticipated growth, Popeyes is investing in operational efficiency through a workforce empowered by financial stability. With EWA, employees can access a portion of their earnings before payday without incurring debt or hidden fees. This immediate financial support reduces financial stress, translating to improved attendance, higher retention rates, and significant cost savings on retraining and rehiring, ultimately enhancing operational efficiency.

Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines Ed Kintanar—emphasizes the strategic importance of employee well-being in Popeyes’ operations.

"Retaining employees effectively helps our company avoid productivity setbacks. We believe that implementing EWA will enhance our employees’ well-being, leading to improved productivity and higher retention rates.," said Ed Kintanar, Chief Finance Officer of Popeyes Philippines. "Paywatch’s expertise makes them the ideal partner to help us introduce this innovative benefit."

Empowering Employees Through Financial Flexibility

Globally, Paywatch’s EWA solution has been adopted by leading brands, including well-known food service companies. By partnering with Paywatch, Popeyes Philippines demonstrates its leadership in employee welfare within the local QSR sector. The initiative not only aims to boost employee satisfaction but also to optimize business operations by fostering a more resilient and engaged workforce.

Popeyes staff have started using the Paywatch app, easing the burden of unexpected financial challenges and empowering them to focus on delivering exceptional service to customers.

"Paywatch is committed to advancing financial wellness across diverse sectors, including food service and retail," said Rowell Del Fierro, President of Paywatch Philippines. "We are excited to see the positive impact that EWA will bring to both employees and businesses, knowing it can enhance financial well-being while also improving overall operations."

By implementing Paywatch’s EWA program, Popeyes is setting a new benchmark for employee care in the fast-moving QSR industry, ensuring that its team is not only financially secure but also highly motivated to deliver exceptional service.

For more information about Paywatch, please visit https://www.paywatchglobal.com/

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About Paywatch

Founded by brothers Richard and Alex Kim, Paywatch is Asia's leading Earned Wage Access (EWA) service provider, committed to fostering holistic financial wellness for employees. By partnering with leading enterprises and top banks across Asia, we enable employees to secure brighter financial futures through safe and flexible financial access. Our mission is to empower people to live better lives. Currently, Paywatch operates in Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with support from Citi, UOB, Hana Bank, and Hong Leong Bank.

[1] https://qsrmedia.asia/videos/demand-convenient-food-drives-ph-qsr-market

#iPhoneforEveryONE: Home Credit makes it easy for Filipinos to own the iPhone 16 series

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Country’s leading consumer finance company unveils affordable

installment options at Digimap's Apple iPhone 16 midnight launch

Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), the country’s leading consumer finance company, collaborated with Digimap for the launch of the highly anticipated Apple iPhone 16 Series in the Philippines.

During a midnight salubong event held on Oct 17 at One Ayala mall, Home Credit unveiled exclusive deals and promos, and flexible installment plans that make purchasing and experiencing the Apple’s newest devices easier for Filipinos.

“Our goal at Home Credit is to help Filipinos enhance their everyday experiences. By providing easier access to the latest devices, like the iPhone 16 Series, we enable individuals to easily upgrade from entry-level to top-tier devices that suit their needs. We are excited to offer these flexible installment options and great deals at Digimap, ensuring that more Filipinos can enjoy these devices without worrying about their budgets, making the #iPhoneforEveryONE a reality,” said Sheila Paul, Chief Marketing Officer of HCPH.

With just a 30% downpayment, customers can own the iPhone 16 with 0% interest on up to 12-month installment plans or 1% interest per month for up to 24-month installment options.

“At Digimap, we are dedicated to bringing the latest Apple technology closer to Filipinos. Our partnership with Home Credit makes it even easier for more people to experience the newest iPhone 16 Series, thanks to their financing services that are easy on the wallet. This enables Filipinos to live, play and connect—integrating the best technology into their daily lives, especially as we continue to embrace an increasingly digital lifestyle,” remarked Jill Baysa, Head of Marketing of Digimap.

The midnight launch featured an engaging Home Credit booth filled with interactive activities, graced by the Home Credit Salubong Squad: Miss Universe Philippines 2024 Chelsea Manalo, Mr. Manhunt International 2024 Kevin Dasom, and TikTok stars Ms. Deliciousness and Poca, with Sean Ortega and Patsy Reyes as hosts.

Additionally, the first 16 customers who purchased the iPhone 16 through Home Credit won exclusive Apple products—ranging from MacBooks and iPads to Apple Watches and AirPods—along with photo opportunities with the Home Credit Salubong Squad.

Acquiring the iPhone 16 through Home Credit is quick and hassle-free. With just one valid ID, eligible customers can get approval in as quick as one minute. To secure fast pre-approval for product installments, customers can download the Home Credit App from Google Play or the App Store or speak with a Home Credit sales representative at any Digimap branch for assistance.

“With minimal requirements and a fast approval process, we are making our financing offers accessible to more Filipinos. We will continue to ensure a seamless experience for our customers, making Home Credit’s products and services readily available to meet their needs,” Paul concluded.

The iPhone 16 Series is available in the following variants: the iPhone 16 in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB; the iPhone 16 Plus in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB; the iPhone 16 Pro in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB; and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

Customers can visit any Digimap branch to purchase the iPhone 16 with Home Credit’s installment options. For availability, they can check their preferred Digimap location here.

Home Credit’s iPhone 16 Series promos are also available through its partner stores nationwide, such as Abenson, Aerophone, Beyond the Box, Cellboy, Digimap, Digiplanet, Digital Walker, Fone Style, Gadget Headz, Greentelcom, Guanzon, In-box Personal Phone and Accessories, JI Telecom, Octagon, Power Mac, Silicon Valley, The Loop, Wiltelcom, and 8telcom, or at over 5000 Apple resellers nationwide.

To learn more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph, or follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

Relive Your Best Years with the Samsung Y2K 4eva Collection

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Unique mobile accessories launched in partnership with Paul Frank and MILO, as well as Samsung original designs, inspiring youth in the Philippines to express themselves in their Y2K aesthetic

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd unlocks a blast from the past with the launch of its Y2K 4eva collection of mobile accessories in the Southeast Asia and Oceania (SEAO) region, which aims to bring Y2K style roaring into the present. A nod to trends in the 2000s, the new Y2K 4eva collection features bold, playful and nostalgic accessories exclusively designed for the Galaxy Z Flip6 and Galaxy Buds 3 series, including special designs in collaboration with Paul Frank and MILO.

Based on a study by GWI, Y2K era pop culture has been making a resurgence in recent years as Millennials and Generation Z (Gen Zs) feel particularly nostalgic for media in the 2000s[1]. Millennials and Gen Zs are adding their own twist by infusing 21st century kitsch and digital retrofuturism into their day to day, such as thrifting and the use of film filter effects for digital photography, which have become a trend among this specific demographic.

Innovative Design Meets Iconic Style

The launch of the Y2K 4eva collection is not just about accessories, but also a time capsule that reminds of the simple and fun years of our youth, when our love affair with technology was still new, at the dawn of the early internet heralded by the buzz of dial-up connections. The collection will feature Samsung original Y2K 4eva designs that are bold, playful and nostalgic, sporting disco motifs and a back-to-school vibe many will love.

Paul Frank Galaxy Z Flip6 Case with Animated Wallpaper, Sticker Sheet and Griptok

As part of this year’s Y2K 4eva collection, Samsung has collaborated with Paul Frank to feature designs set in Planned Pines, a utopian universe that is a reminder of fun, playful and fearless times before the complexities of adulthood set in, adorned with Paul Frank’s beloved Julius the Monkey.

Paul Frank sits at the intersection between nostalgia and fashion, embracing fun, light-hearted moments that reflect the next generations’ individuality while promoting inclusivity and community.

MILO Galaxy Z Flip6 Case with Animated Wallpaper and Sticker Sheet

Samsung has also collaborated with MILO to create a uniquely designed phone case that is reminiscent of a recess favorite and a generational household staple that many have. For many, the love for MILO often begins at childhood – the iconic cocoa malt beverage for a school morning breakfast, or an energizing pick-me-up during sports days and recess. This collaboration celebrates the timeless joy that MILO brings, connecting with fans who grew up loving MILO. The iconic MILO tin featured in the phone design pays homage to the heritage that remains a staple in many SEAO homes, igniting fond memories of growing up.

Accessories in the Y2K 4eva collection range from phone cases with animated cover screen wallpapers for the Galaxy Z Flip6, Buds case for the Galaxy Buds 3 series, Griptoks, and sticker sheets. They will be up for grabs across the SEAO region through social contests, giveaways, and purchase redemptions[2].

“The Y2K movement has grown in popularity among Millennials and Gen Zs today. At Samsung, we are excited to bring a fresh and playful twist to our latest Galaxy devices through this movement by empowering our fans and users to explore the styles that resonate with who they are and what they like,” said ChonHong Ng, VP, Head of Regional Marketing, Samsung Electronics Southeast Asia and Oceania. “Our Y2K 4eva collection, in collaboration with iconic brands like Paul Frank and MILO, reflects our efforts as a distinctive brand that continues to innovate, offering our customers unique accessories that are functional and also serve as a form of self-expression.”

“Together with Samsung, we are excited to bring new ways for Paul Frank fans to have meaningful engagements with Julius and his friends. We are delighted to collaborate on this exciting Y2K 4eva collection with the Samsung team and bring together playful and fun accessories that both our customers will be sure to enjoy” said Michael Puglisi, Brand Director & Global Licensing, Futurity Brands.

“We are delighted to partner with Samsung to bring something fresh to MILO fans from across SEAO. As a generationally well-loved brand, this Y2K interpretation would be especially special for those who started loving MILO as kids-back in this era. It is an homage to the timeless joy and nutritious energy that MILO brings to families across the region,” said Michelle Marie Avarillo, Global Category Business Head - Kids & Teens Nutrition at Nestlé.

Hone your style in retrograde in the Philippines

These accessories are now available via the Samsung Shop App and Samsung Experience Stores’ Live Space sessions. Calling on Millennials and Gen Zs to show off your take on these eras -- to know more about the Samsung Y2K 4eva Collection, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/samsung-x-you/.

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[1] Based on a study conducted by GWI, a consumer research agency, where 6,390 internet users aged 16-64 were asked about media from the past that they feel nostalgic for.

[2] Paul Frank collaboration accessories are available in the

FEU Theater Guild's 'Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig' This November

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The FEU Theater Guild proudly announces that "Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig," adapted from Gabriel Garcia-Marquez’s “The Handsomest Drowned Man” by Teresa Lorena Jopson shall continue its performances beginning November 6, 2024 at the FEU Center of the Arts Studio, Ground Floor, Engineering Building, FEU Manila, Nica or Reyes Street, Sampaloc, Manila.

The musical play is composed by Jeff Hernandez along with musical direction by Jesus Singh III (IAS ‘17) with direction and choreography by Dudz Teraña.

Co-presented by the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA) and Alumni Relations Office (ARO), Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig," which is set on water returns to the uncanny coasts of Isla Esteban where a big mystery threatens to disturb its calm shores.

The play is accompanied by stirring musical compositions that move through this narrative tale brought to life by the skillful ensemble of actors and singers of the FTG.

There will be two sets of townspeople with an all-female and all-male principal cast with each character played by either current members of the FEU Theater Guild or its alumni.

Catch the FTG’s “Ang Pinakamakisig sa mga Nalunod sa Buong Daigdig” at 6 PM on the following dates: November 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 2024

Ticket prices are 200PHP for the FEU Community, 400PHP for Guests, and 600PHP for VIPs.

#FTGMakisig  #TaraSaEsteban  #FTGNobenta

Capture every moment with vivo V40 Lite 5G’s 50MP main camera and AI Aura Light

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For those who thrive on capturing life’s beautiful moments, the vivo V40 Lite 5G is a game-changer. This newest midrange device from vivo boasts a 50MP main camera with AI Aura Light, a 32MP portrait camera, and an 8MP 120° ultra wide-angle camera, all designed to make every shot exceptional.

With advanced tools like AI Aura Light, AI Erase, and AI Photo Enhance, the V40 Lite 5G allows users to capture vibrant, studio-quality photos anytime and anywhere, with enhanced control over each image’s details.

Unmatched camera setup for every photography style

The vivo V40 Lite 5G is equipped with a 50MP main camera for strikingly clear images, a 32MP portrait camera that excels in selfies, and an 8MP ultra wide-angle camera with a 120° field of view. The ultra-wide lens is ideal for capturing stunning group shots and panoramic landscapes, while vivo’s intelligent algorithms correct wide-angle distortion to deliver flawless images.

Without Flash or AI Aura Light

With Flash

With AI Aura Light

Adding to this is the innovative AI Aura Light feature. Offering 75 times softer and 8 times wider lighting coverage than a standard flash, the AI Aura Light provides a warm, even glow that complements all skin tones and smooths away imperfections. Even vivo ambassador Marian River can't get enough of it!

https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7432267240109542674?lang=en]

With this feature, portraits look more natural and professional, even in low light, making every shot look like it was taken in a studio.

Perfectly enhanced photos with AI Erase and AI Photo Enhance

The V40 Lite 5G brings powerful AI editing capabilities right to your fingertips. With AI Erase, users can easily remove unwanted objects or distractions from photos, ensuring that each image focuses on the best moments.

Before AI Erase

After AI Erase

On the other hand, the AI Photo Enhance feature automatically optimizes brightness, contrast, and sharpness, bringing out vibrant colors and fine details that make every shot look professionally edited with just a single tap.

The AI Erase and AI Photo Enhance features allow users to create photos that truly stand out, highlighting the beauty of each scene.

Low-light excellence with Super Night algorithms

Low-light conditions are no challenge for the V40 Lite 5G, thanks to its Night Mode with Super Night algorithms. This technology enhances brightness, clarity, and color accuracy, minimizing blur and noise for clear, vivid night shots. With nine unique night filters, users can add an artistic touch to their nighttime photos, unlocking endless creative possibilities

For those who love capturing every angle and moment with perfection, the vivo V40 Lite 5G is the ideal choice. With up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage (expandable up to 2TB), the vivo V40 Lite 5G starts at Php 15,999.

Visit vivo stores nationwide or shop online via the vivo website and Shopee to bring this powerful photography companion home today!