Friday, May 30, 2025

PCPPI, PepsiCo partner with MESA to elevate the Filipino F&B experience

Photo shows: Tommy Mangosing, AVP, National Key Accounts, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc.; Raymond Federigan, Vice President for Operations of Mesa Philippines; Eric Dee, Chief Operating Officer of FooDee Global Concepts; Lyndon Cuadra, Chief Commercial Officer of PCPPI; and Katrina Suarez, Marketing Manager for Carbonated Soft Drinks (CSD) of PepsiCo Ph


Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI), the country's exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages, has officially teamed with MESA, one of the Philippines' most popular Filipino restaurant chains, to provide Filipino consumers with a more elevated and delightful dining experience. 







This collaboration, titled "Mas MESA-rap Maiba with Pepsi," combines MESA's modern version of traditional Filipino cuisine with PepsiCo's extensive and refreshing beverage line.  Together, they hope to provide a well-rounded dining experience that honors Filipino culinary tradition while also catering to today's evolving tastes.

Thursday, May 29, 2025

Bigger Screen, Sharper Vision: TCL Teases Launch of C7K QD-Mini LED TV That Redefines Clarity



For many people, watching TV is a daily ritual—a way to unwind after a hard day, catch up on beloved shows, or get into an intensive gaming session.  A huge screen can significantly improve your viewing experience.  It expands your field of vision, drawing you deeper into films, television shows, and games.  It provides a cinematic ambiance that transports you right into the action, whether you're exploring fantasy worlds in games or watching the latest blockbuster film from the comfort of your own home.

There's no need to visualize a larger-than-life screen anymore.  TCL, the Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand and a trusted leader in home appliances, is reinventing clarity and ushering in a new era of home entertainment.  Introducing the TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV, a revolutionary product that combines the best of QLED technology to produce remarkable precision, unrivaled brightness, and outstanding color depth.

"We're excited to bring you the cutting-edge QD-Mini LED TV technology. Expect a viewing experience that is truly leveled up. Engineered to deliver cinematic picture quality, this TV integrates advanced features that you have always wanted, all in the comfort of your own home.” ~Joseph Cernitchez, TCL Brand Manager

Watching a favorite movie on the TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV brings the screen to life with vibrant colors and sharp details that make each scene stand out.  Whether in a tranquil moment or an action-packed sequence, the TV's excellent contrast and lifelike colors engage viewers, making them feel as if they are a part of the tale.  It provides a cinematic experience by converting any living room into a personal movie theater.


Redefine Clarity With The All-Out Premium TV

TCL's QD-Mini LED technology is a significant advancement, flawlessly merging the power of Premium 4K QD-Mini LED Display.  It transforms typical backlighting into a system with near-pixel-level precision, giving you incredible control over light.  By utilizing modern QLED technology, it delivers OLED-like contrast and color gamut while providing better peak brightness and a longer lifespan.  This invention is more than just an improvement; it represents the future of large-screen display technology.

With hundreds of small dimming zones, it offers very accurate brightness adjustment and deep contrast.  Combined with Quantum Dot technology for extraordinarily brilliant, genuine colors, its ultra-bright backlight outperforms standard LED TVs in peak brightness, resulting in a totally immersive viewing experience.

Another plus is that the music quality matches the excellent graphics.  TCL QD Mini LED TVs have Audio by Bang & Olufsen technology, which delivers remarkable sound quality that defies convention and exceeds expectations.  The soundtrack is delivered with unparalleled purity and depth, improving your home cinema experience.  As a result, your TV will only receive the clearest sound.

Prepare to experience the future of home entertainment.  The TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV will soon be available from all TCL authorized dealers.  Prepare for a visual revolution!

Stay tuned for more updates on TCL C7K Premium QD-Mini LED TV, visit the TCL website at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.














About TCL Philippines:
TCL Electronics (HKG:1070) is a fast-growing consumer electronics company and a leading player in the global TV industry. Founded in 1981, it now operates in over 160 markets worldwide. TCL specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products, including TVs, audio, and smart home appliances. Visit the TCL home page at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en

Tuesday, May 27, 2025

A Force of Four in Year 4: Vermosa Green Run champions fitness, sustainability, youth sports, and animal welfare in 2025



The Green Run at Vermosa returns for the fourth time this June, with a renewed focus on fitness, environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and child sports development.

The Vermosa Green Run 2025: A Force of Four in Year 4 will go out on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the Vermosa Estate in Imus, Cavite.  This year, Ayala Land's flagship multi-level running event will include a Plastic Donation and Collection Drive in addition to its 3K, 5K, 10K, and 21K road races.




All attendees are urged to donate discarded plastics, which will be recovered and utilized by Ayala Land Estates Inc. and the Makati Development Corporation.  Plastic garbage will be converted into sustainable construction materials, concrete aggregates, and other tools for building sidewalks and fences, which will help Ayala Land's green development projects.  Those who donate receive a discount on their Green Run registration.

The popular 1K Dog Run, which promotes Ayala Land's animal welfare activism, will return for the third time.  This unique aspect of the Green Run was introduced in 2023 to give individuals a fun and meaningful chance to engage in physical activity while bonding with their furry companions, as well as to promote awareness about animal welfare.





Takbo Kabitenyo, a 200-strong club of young athletes who run for health and compete in marathons across the country, will participate in the Green Run.  As part of Ayala Land's commitment to supporting young athletes, these young runners receive training, guidance, and access to Vermosa's sports facilities.

The event's proceeds will assist key advocacy partners such as the Pawssion Project, which promotes animal welfare, the Haribon Foundation, which leads forestry initiatives, and Takbo Kabitenyo, a local organization that trains and coaches young athletes.

"Each step you take at the Vermosa Green Run supports a bigger cause; combining fitness, sustainability, and community support into one meaningful event." ~Chrissy Roa, Ayala Land Estates’ Marketing and Communications Group Head



Now an established benchmark for purpose-driven lifestyle events, the Vermosa Green Run reinforces Ayala Land’s long-term vision for sustainability, proving that fitness can be a powerful catalyst for environmental and social impact.




For registration, more information and updates on Vermosa Green Run 2025, visit https://ayalaland.myruntime.com.

Monday, May 26, 2025

Pru Life UK is recognized for thought leadership and innovative CSR initiatives at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards

Pru Life UK is recognized for thought leadership and innovative CSR initiatives at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards.


Pru Life UK received Gold and Silver distinctions at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards for its excellent thought leadership and creative corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects that benefit impoverished Filipinos and promote youth financial education.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards recognize business innovation in 29 countries, honoring organizations and individuals for thought leadership, business development, and corporate social responsibility.

Pru Life UK won the Gold Stevie® for Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year for its Takaful Journey, which takes a holistic approach to Islamic finance through stakeholder and community involvement, capacity building seminars, and educational initiatives.  Pru Life UK became the first insurer in the Philippines to get a Takaful license, and the company plans to introduce a Shari'ah-compliant policy to meet the financial needs of approximately seven million Muslim Filipinos.

The company was also awarded the Silver Stevie® for Innovative Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility for its Cha-Ching's Million-Step Journey: Transforming Filipino Lives Through Financial Education. Developed by the Prudence Foundation in collaboration with Pru Life UK and JA Philippines, the program reached over one million Filipino children last year through a collaboration with the Department of Education, addressing financial illiteracy at the grassroots level by educating students on the fundamental financial concepts of Cha-Ching: earning, saving, spending, and donating.

“We are honoured to receive these recognitions that affirm the impact of our efforts in empowering underserved Filipino communities. We remain committed to helping Filipinos from all walks of life secure a better future.” ~Mr. Paul Mandal, Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer at Pru Life UK

Pru Life UK was previously recognized at the 2024Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards with two Silver and three Bronze awards for its activities that benefit Filipino families.  The organization is committed to its purpose of becoming the most trustworthy partner and protector for today's Filipinos and future generations.













About Pru Life UK
Pru Life UK is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.   

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of almost 40,000 licensed agents.   
Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.   

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* and Total Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products** as of FY 2024, according to the Insurance Commission.   

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a 175-year legacy of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.  
 
Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer center is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer center contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: contact.us@prulifeuk.com.ph

The PRU customer center processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/contact-us/ for the list of its branches and more information. 

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission. 

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery,  Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit www.insurance.gov.ph/contact-us/ for more information. 

Notes: 
*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year  
*Renewal Premium Income from Variable Life Insurance Products – premium collected for existing policies  
 
Please use "Pru Life UK" when referring to the company.

HOPE Launches Generation HOPE with Filipino Brands to Build Classrooms for the Next Generation



HOPE, the Philippines' first recognized B Corp and a pioneering impact organization, has launched Generation HOPE, a collaboration with the country's most renowned brands to solve the pressing need for more public school classrooms statewide.



This campaign brings together the country's most beloved businesses, including BDO, Carmen's Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies, to allow every Filipino to vote with their pesos to support nation-building by constructing public school classrooms.  These purpose-driven firms and their customers share a mission of closing the education gap and providing a safe, comfortable learning environment for every Filipino child.




Generation HOPE, launched in conjunction with the Philippines' Department of Education (DepEd), was unveiled with the assistance of HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, and representatives from DepEd and all brand partners.

“Filipinos always come together in times of need. In a world that is increasingly divided, let's harness that power every day to support something we can all agree on: investing in the youth of this country to build a nation and ensure a brighter future.” ~Ms. Nanette Medved-Po, HOPE Founder



To bring this vision to life, HOPE and its partner brands have created unique ways for Filipinos to enjoy being part of this movement.

BDO customers will soon be able to own a BDO “HOPE in Every Spend” credit card, and a portion of their spend using the credit card will automatically be donated to building public schools. More than that, they can convert their Rewards points into donations, and a portion of the annual membership fee will also be donated to HOPE.



Carmen’s Best is preparing limited-edition offerings—Hope in a Scoop and Hope in a Pint—that blend indulgence with impact. 



Grab users will have the option to use GrabRewards points to support classroom construction and make donations. 



Aivee Clinic will introduce the Aivee x HOPE collection, featuring limited edition items like bags and tags, along with specially designed Skin Bank cards for the cause.



Penshoppe is launching an exclusive line of HOPE-themed t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and bags. 



SM Supermalls will donate a portion of sales from SM-branded water bottles sold at partner food merchants. 



Sunnies will unveil a clean lens kit and specially designed Sunnies Flask for this collaboration.



Each product from the partnership offers a simple, tangible way to help build a better future through education. 

Working closely with DepEd, HOPE ensures that every classroom built directly addresses the most urgent needs of public schools across the country. 

“Education is not just a duty, it’s a solemn responsibility we all share. When the government and the private sector unite through partnerships like Generation HOPE, we break down barriers and pave the way for every Filipino child to learn in a safe and inspiring environment. Education is how we secure the future of our nation.” ~DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, highlights the importance of collaboration in this cause

For more information, please visit https://www.generationhope.ph/ or follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or @generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates.


Sunday, May 25, 2025

Youth study prompts top brands to collab on new marketing campaign



According to a recent market survey titled "PhilLife Meter: Feeling the Insurance Pulse of Pinoy Gen Y and Z," 78% of young Filipinos prioritize family security, with 77% ranking emergency preparedness as the most significant benefit when selecting insurance coverage.

The Philippines First Insurance Group (PFI Group) conducted the study for PhilLife, which highlights the changing priorities of young Filipinos in terms of safety and planning.  It also presents a clear picture of a new generation that is intentional, family-oriented, and eager to take ownership of their future when solutions meet them exactly where they are.

"Contrary to a qualitative study released a few years back, young Filipinos now prioritize their health and families over investment growth. The changed priorities perhaps resulted from the effects of the pandemic. It's no longer just about growing your money, but growing your peace of mind." ~Dr. Fernando Paragas, PhilLife Market Study Lead Researcher


In response to the study's findings, the PFI Group has developed an umbrella project including its four brands: PhilLife, PhilCare, PhilPlans, and PhilFirst.  It's called Smarter.  Bolder.  Fuller, the project marks the first time these industry-leading brands have collaborated on a campaign focused at young Filipinos.

"As the PhilLife Meter study has revealed, young Filipinos are making serious life decisions earlier-whether it's securing their family, investing in health, or planning for the future. We want to be their partner that understands them, protects them, and grows with them. The Smarter. Bolder. Fuller. drive aims to meet today's millennial Filipinos where they are in life and provide them with the tools to enable their needs, dreams, and aspirations for themselves and their families. It's more than just a campaign-it's a mindset. A declaration of who we are and who we want to be for every Filipino. Through simplified insurance products, tech-enabled customer service, and value-driven financial planning, we are set to make protection more personal, more relevant, and more feasible for the young generation. Whether it's an entrepreneur thinking of getting a healthcare plan, a millennial parent investing in their child's future, or a creative freelancer wanting to protect his online assets, we want to be there for them every step of the way." ~Jaeger L. Tanco, PFI Group President and CEO


A Century of Service

PhilFirst, founded in 1906, was the country's first insurance business and the first to provide domestic non-life insurance coverage for unexpected catastrophes such as natural disasters and personal injuries.  This set the path for the development of PFI Group's other major brands, which expanded the company's protection and security ecosystem.




PhilLife protects families and goals through life insurance and savings products.  PhilCare improves healthcare accessibility, proactiveness, and responsiveness.  PhilPlans celebrates life's milestones through its many plan options. 

These businesses have moved with the times, adopting digital technologies, offering prepaid choices, and improving customer experience to meet the changing needs of a technologically proficient and value-conscious Filipino market.

"Findings from the PhilLife study are more than just numbers, they are a call to action for businesses. Young Filipinos are telling us what they value: protection, preparedness, and purpose. Companies that listen to them won't just earn their trust, they'll earn their loyalty. At PFI Group, this is exactly the kind of insight that drives innovation." ~Monico Jacob, PhilCare and PhilLife Chairman of the Board


Championing the next generation

With the advent of digital lifestyles and flexible work arrangements, PFI Group's campaign has a clear focus: service the modern Filipino, particularly Gen Zs and millennials, who now make up a sizable portion of the workforce. 

The campaign follows Tanco's recent double triumph at the renowned Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards 2025.  He received a Silver Stevie Award for Most Innovative Leader of the Year at PhilCare and a Gold Stevie Award for Most Innovative Creative Person of the Year for his work at Comm&Sense.

The organization is widely recognized as the region's leading prizes for commercial innovation.  The PFI Group's Smarter.  Bolder.  Fuller.  Tanco's imaginative leadership is demonstrated once again through the campaign.






Dianne Medina, an actress and television personality, has joined Smarter as a brand advocate.  Bolder.  Fuller, to assist bring to life PFI Group's united theme of encouraging Filipinos to live wiser, braver, and more fulfilled lives.

Friday, May 23, 2025

Acer Unveils Creator-Worthy Swift X Duo with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs

 

Acer today introduced two new models in its Swift X laptop series: the Swift X 14 AI and Swift X 14, which are aimed to provide professionals and content producers with dependable performance as well as a package of AI technologies to assist their creative pursuits.

Powered by AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 Series processors, the Swift 14 X AI enables seamless on-device rendering, modeling, and real-time visualization. This new Copilot+ PC is equipped to handle demanding AI workloads and offers exclusive AI experiences such as Recall (preview), Click to Do (preview), and improved Windows search, Cocreator, Live Captions, Image Creator, and Windows Studio Effects. The new Swift X 14 creator laptop ensures responsive performance for demanding creative workflows and all-day battery life powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra Processors (Series 2). 

Both laptops are powered by NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPUs with NVIDIA Blackwell architecture. They also have Calman-verified 3K OLED touch panels calibrated to offer compelling and accurate colors out of the box.


Acer Swift X 14 AI and Swift X 14: NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPUs, Plus OLED Displays




Creators now have two new model options from the award-winning Swift X line, ideal for creative professionals such as graphic designers, video editors, and photographers who need a powerful system in a portable form factor. The Swift X 14 AI (SFX14-61G) is powered by up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor with advanced “Zen 5” cores to provide fast responsiveness and endurance to run heavy AI workloads, while the Swift X 14 (SFX14-73G) is powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 285H to handle multitasking and demanding applications smoothly. Both devices have plenty of storage space for saving work files and content with up to 32 GB LPDDR5X system memory and up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 storage.

These premium creator laptops both feature NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPUs, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, to drive AI-accelerated workflows for live streaming, video editing, and 3D rendering, enabling new experiences and next-level graphics fidelity. Both systems are NVIDIA Studio-validated and optimized with pre-installed NVIDIA Studio Drivers for out-of-the-box performance. Additionally, the Swift X laptops support NVIDIA DLSS 4 technology to multiply performance and provide access to NVIDIA NIM Microservices – state-of-the-art AI models that let enthusiasts and developers build AI assistants, agents, and workflows with peak performance.  

Creators and professionals can visualize their designs in lifelike color and stunning clarity on the Swift X 14 AI and Swift X 14’s Calman-verified 14.5-inch 3K OLED displays. With full DCI-P3 color range support, creators will experience impressive color accuracy in animation, photos, and video. The 16:10 displays deliver an immersive experience with edge-to-edge glass and VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 500 certification. Acer Light Sensing technology vividly adapts color temperature and brightness to reflect lighting conditions. Both laptops’ displays are protected by smudge-resistant Corning® Gorilla™ Glass and are available with touch-screen options for intuitive controls. 




The new Swift X models are designed for makers, with extra-large haptic touchpads that provide highly precise feedback and smooth navigation.  Support for an MPP 2.5 tilt-enabled stylus[] improves the device's usability by allowing users to easily sketch, design, edit, and take notes.  Their elegant and versatile design may be put flat, giving you more options for creative endeavors and teamwork. 

Two TwinAir stereo ring fans, twin copper heat pipes, and dedicated air inlet keyboards are among the advanced thermal technology used to efficiently drain heat and keep both new laptops cool.


Ready to Connect, Sustainable Design 

The new Swift X models are designed for makers, with extra-large haptic touchpads that provide highly precise feedback and smooth navigation.  Support for an MPP 2.5 tilt-enabled stylus[] improves the device's usability by allowing users to easily sketch, design, edit, and take notes.  Their elegant and versatile design may be put flat, giving you more options for creative endeavors and teamwork. 

Two TwinAir stereo ring fans, twin copper heat pipes, and dedicated air inlet keyboards are among the advanced thermal technology used to efficiently drain heat and keep both new laptops cool.


Pricing and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.














About Acer
Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 9,000 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Thursday, May 22, 2025

Stronger Together: Palawan Group of Companies (PGC) and RAFI Microfinance Announce Expanded Partnership

PGC’s partnership with RAFI Microfinance Inc. bridges the gap in financial access for underserved MSMEs by combining nationwide reach with inclusive financial services to empower grassroots entrepreneurs.


The Palawan Group of Companies (PGC), owner and operator of the Philippines' leading and most trusted pawnshop and remittance brands, Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala (PEPP), is strengthening its commitment to grassroots entrepreneurship by forming a stronger partnership with RAFI Microfinance, Inc.  The contract was signed in the PGC Head Office in Puerto Princesa, indicating a concerted commitment to empower and support micro-entrepreneurs around the country.

With this collaboration, RAFI Microfinance's services will be available through PGC's extensive network of over 3,500 PEPP branches nationally.  As both organizations are committed to promoting financial inclusion among Filipinos, particularly those living in distant or underserved areas, this enhanced cooperation intends to improve the reliability and accessibility of critical financial services while lowering associated travel time and expenses.


The RAF Microfinance Team was given a tour of the PGC headquarters, including the rooftop where views of Palawan beaches can be enjoyed.


According to the Department of Trade and Industry, small firms account for 99.59% of all registered enterprises in the Philippines as of 2023, employing more than 65% of the total workforce.  Despite their critical role in the economy, many of them, particularly those in rural or low-income areas, continue to face restricted access to formal credit, business development assistance, and scalable financial tools.

“We’ve always believed that inclusive finance is a foundation for social progress. This partnership ensures that even micro-entrepreneurs in the most remote barangays can access the resources they need to build better futures for their families and communities.” ~Bobby L. Castro, PGC Chairman

The collaboration between PGC and RAFI Microfinance is an important response to this gap, as it uses PGC's large physical reach and digital infrastructure to bring RAFI Microfinance's inclusive services closer to underserved entrepreneurs.  The partnership plays a critical role in accomplishing PGC's main goal of supporting equitable growth and establishing a more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem across the country by improving grassroots financial service access.

“Since day one, our mission has been to make financial services more accessible to Filipinos from all walks of life. This partnership with RAFi strengthens that mission by extending meaningful support to our micro-entrepreneurs, especially those working hard in underserved areas.” ~Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, PGC Chief Business Development Officer

PGC's strong leadership in both physical and digital financial services allows it to continue expanding its position in providing millions of Filipinos with reliable, inclusive, and trustworthy solutions.  

“At RAFI Microfinance, we are committed to breaking barriers that limit the growth of micro-entrepreneurs. Partnering with PGC allows us to deliver our services more efficiently and reach more Filipinos who deserve access to financial opportunities and security. And since our companies share the same values, I can say that this partnership is both strategic and virtuous.” ~Thomas Kocsis, Representing RAFI Microfinance, President and CEO

This collaboration expands PGC's ability to reach more customers, particularly in rural and underserved communities, by assisting micro-entrepreneurs on their journey to greater financial stability and independence, all while providing services that are “mura, mabilis, at walang kuskos balungos” (affordable, fast, and hassle-free).













ABOUT PALAWAN GROUP OF COMPANIES:
The Palawan Group of Companies includes products and services such as Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express Pera Padala, Palawan ProtekTODO, Palawan Credit, and PalawanPay. A brand trusted by Filipinos for almost four decades, PGC is one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country. With its strength in remittance and pawning services, the company is the market leader in the industry and as over 70,000 branches, Pera Padala outlets, and PalawanPay Money Shops nationwide.

The Palawan Group of Companies offers a wide range of services, including pawning, domestic and international remittances, microinsurance, bills payment, electronic mobile phone loading, cash-in and cash-out of e-wallets, money exchange, ATM withdrawal, and cash disbursements. Additionally, the company sells jewelry and gold bars, catering to customers looking to invest in valuable assets.

Palawan Group of Companies introduced PalawanPay, an e-wallet app that allows users to send and receive remittances anytime, anywhere. PalawanPay is the company’s latest digital solution, offering faster, safer, and more convenient transactions. In addition to remittances, the app provides access to other financial services, including bills payments, mobile load top-ups, and scan-to-pay QR Ph codes. The app also features integrated functionality for pawn renewal, purchasing jewelry and gold items, ProtekTODO personal insurance, and claiming international remittances.

Palawan Group of Companies is supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites.

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Chowking Cools Down SM MoA with the Grand Finale of Halo-Halo Land



Chowking gave SM Mall of Asia the ultimate summer send-off with the grand finale of Halo-Halo Land, a two-day celebration packed with nonstop entertainment, kumpletong lamig-sarap, and a crowd-pleasing live appearance from one of the country's most talked-about loveteams, Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino (KimPau).




Hundreds of people came at the SM Mall of Asia Main Atrium to enjoy the brand's most refreshing event of the year.  Guests waited up for servings of the legendary Halo-Halo Supreme, which is prepared with SuperSangkap ingredients such as ube halaya, leche flan, red sago, and more.  From Instagram-worthy installations to all-in games and awards, every area of Halo-Halo Land exuded peak summer feelings.




SM Mall of Asia marked the final stop in Chowking’s nationwide Halo-Halo Land tour, which made waves across the country with successful runs in SM City Bacoor, SM City Pampanga, SM City Davao, and SM Seaside City Cebu. Each leg of the tour showcased the joy of summer with all-in fun, flavor, and Filipino flair.

Even after the final event, the lamig-sarap lives on. Chowking’s best-selling Halo-Halo Supreme remains available in all stores for dine-in, takeout, delivery, and online via chowkingdelivery.com, Chowking App, GrabFood, and foodpanda.




Summer may be ending, but when it comes to kumpletong lamig-sarap, walang tatalo sa Chowking Halo-Halo Supreme! 

Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri Captures the Easy, Effortless Lifestyle of the New Generation



With the advent of home drinking culture and a demand for convenience, ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails have gained popularity among today's youth.  Tanduay Flavored Mixes in Daiquiri taste are one of the most popular RTDs on the market today.

“Drinking culture is changing, and Millennials and GenZ are driving that change. They want something effortless without sacrificing taste, and Tanduay has responded to this demand with our RTD products like the Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri. They want something relaxing when catching up or celebrating. Their home becomes the new bar, and Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri blends with this new lifestyle. ~Janno Gironella, Jr., Tanduay R&D Head



Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri tastes like fresh, juicy lemonade, with overtones of cherry and almond cake.  It boasts tempting smells of juicy cherry, lemon, and candied almonds.

With a 15% ABV, it provides the perfect amount of refreshing kick.  Gironella stated that, while younger drinkers are more creative with flavors, they are also more conscious of their alcohol consumption.


From House Parties to Quiet Wind-Downs



RTDs are popular not only because they are convenient, but also because they reflect how people live today.  People would rather meet at home than in crowded settings.

Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri is also a cocktail that you may easily pack for a weekend break with close friends.  It's also an excellent choice for relaxing peacefully on your own.


Affordable Without Compromising on Taste



Tanduay Flavored Mixes Daiquiri provides the popular brand's signature sipping experience without costing extra.  It's ideal for those on a tight budget who want a tasty cocktail that takes little time to make.

It's as easy to enjoy as it is to buy. Simply visit www.shots.ph or Tanduay's official stores on Lazada and Shopee to browse the brand's extensive selection of rums, RTDs, and other items. You may also find them in major supermarkets and liquor stores.

Cebu Pacific Offers Surprise P88 Sale



Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines' leading carrier, is once again making travel more accessible for every Juan by offering over 750,000 seats on sale across its domestic and international networks—with some domestic one-way base fares starting at PHP 88, exclusive of fees and surcharges.

Sale Period: May 21 – 25, 2025
Travel Period: June 16 to December 15, 2025

Travelers will be able to visit a variety of Philippine locations via CEB's broad hub network in Manila, Clark, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao, including magnificent beaches and dynamic cities, as well as rich cultural and historical attractions.

Northern and central Luzon vacationers can travel directly from Clark to the country's main beach spots, including El Nido and Siargao. 

Passengers departing from Cebu can take direct flights to 30 locations, including San Vicente, Palawan, which has the country's longest white sand beach.

Travelers from Davao can travel directly to 12 domestic destinations and participate in a variety of activities, from cultural heritage excursions to water experiences.  These are Bacolod, Bohol, Boracay, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Clark, Iloilo, Manila, Puerto Princesa, Siargao, Tacloban, and Zamboanga.

Passengers can also take use of CEB's international network, with direct flights from its hubs to Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and Hong Kong.  CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 overseas locations throughout Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

CEB offers multiple payment options, including credit and debit cards, as well as e-wallets, for booking flights and purchasing add-ons.

Ready to book? Visit www.cebupacificair.com or book directly via the Cebu Pacific app to secure your seats now.








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