Metrobank Kicks Off the Season with #EarlyGIFT Challenge and Happy Holideals

 For a lot of Filipinos, owning or upgrading their home and car count among their biggest life goals and the best holiday gift they can give to themselves and their loved ones. This August, Metrobank begins the celebration of the holiday season early with a call to jumpstart Filipinos’ journey to financial mindfulness, as well as great deals to help them finally make these dreams a reality, and achieve it even earlier.

A month before the –ber months, one of the world’s longest holiday season, the bank launched its early holiday season advocacy and offers at a media event on August 8 at One Ayala Malls. The event was made more meaningful and underscored the pre-holiday call to act early, as Jose Mari Chan, the country’s holiday season icon, serenaded the audience with the earliest carols of the year, to help spread the message of early planning and joyful, purposeful spending.

Your guide to turning your dreams into reality

Last year, Metrobank introduced G.I.F.T., a pre-holiday tradition that encourages Filipinos to plan ahead of the holidays using four practical financial principles: Get guided by goals, Invest your bonus wisely, Follow a budget plan, and Take advantage of deals --- all before the holiday season rolls in. With international studies showing that 8 out of 10 people are not able to achieve their new year resolutions made in January, taking up Metrobank’s challenge to start planning their financial goals in August gives them the clearer headspace before the biggest spending or saving season of the year, and increases their chances of fulfilling their goals. The bank aims to make more Filipinos be more financially mindful and help them avoid the so-called financial hangover often experienced post-holidays.

This year, Metrobank is taking the next step with the introduction of the #EarlyGIFT Challenge – encouraging Filipinos to take concrete action towards their dreams. This is an invitation for every Filipino to jumpstart their journey to financial mindfulness this August.

The challenge is simple: participants only need to write down one goal they truly want to achieve in the next 12 months. Ensure that this goal is meaningful, specific enough to track, and realistic enough to reach within a year. Then, share it on social media with the hashtag #EarlyGIFT, and invite their family and friends to do the same. 

Chief Marketing Officer Digs Dimagiba said the #EarlyGIFT Challenge will help start a change in mindset for individuals to be more financially purposeful which then creates a ripple effect towards better decision making.

“We encourage all Filipinos to become more financially mindful and resilient by redefining our usual holiday traditions when it comes to financial planning. Let us all start making our resolutions early in August – take the time to reflect, make just 1 specific and realistic goal that you can publicly commit to doing for the next 12 months, and inspire others to join you so you have a support system and this time, you as well as your family and friends can all finally accomplish your resolutions and grow together,” he added.

Your partner to achieving the car and home of your dreams 

To help Filipinos get started early in achieving their biggest life dreams in August, Metrobank also announced the bank’s Happy Holideals promo. 

Metrobank Consumer Lending Group Head Peaches Cuenco shared “Metrobank believes that your dreams of moving into a new home or driving a new car should not wait until the holiday season. With our Happy Holideals promo that offers low rates, waived fees, and more, you can start working on your goals today and we will be your financial growth partner every step of the way.”

The Happy Holideals promo lets borrowers who will apply and have their car or home loan approved before October 15, 2025, and booked by October 31, 2025 will enjoy exclusive rewards, competitive loan rates, and so much more: 

• Waived fees of up to PHP100,000 on both home and car loan applications. This includes mortgage registration fees, documentary stamp tax, and notarial fees. 
• Low interest rates, starting at 8.70% interest rate per annum (p.a.) for car loans and 6.50% interest rate p.a. for home loans with a minimum term of three years. 
• Free car insurance from AXA Philippines for the first year on car loans.  
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Clients can conveniently apply online through Metrobank's website or visit the nearest Metrobank branch.  

By rolling out these offers ahead of the traditional holiday rush, Metrobank brings the joy of the season earlier than expected. 

To learn more about the Happy Holideals promo or how to join the #EarlyGIFT Challenge, visit www.metrobank.com.ph or follow Metrobank on its official social media channels. 

 

What Wednesday Addams Teaches Us About True Friendship

 Expect more twists and turns (and life lessons!) with hit mystery-thriller Wednesday Season 2 now on Netflix, best streamed with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan 1599!

Photo credit: Jonathan Hession/ Netflix

 

Have you ever noticed how the shows we stream often reflect the way we live? Whether you're deep into a solo binge-watch or sharing gasp-worthy moments with family on the couch, the best stories stick with us. And with the seamless connection of PLDT Home Fiber, these cinematic worlds come to life without interruption, making it even easier to find powerful life lessons from our favorite shows. It shouldn’t be surprising then that Netflix’s hit series Wednesday offers more than thrills and mystery – it’s packed with insights that resonate with both ourselves and the people around us.

 

You see, Nevermore Academy might be full of monsters and mayhem, but it also gave us one of the most unexpected – and heartwarming – friendships on TV: Wednesday Addams and werewolf Enid Sinclair. While one is a macabre mystery-solver and the other a colorful, social butterfly, their dynamic throughout the first season revealed a surprising amount about what it truly means to be a friend. Here are the five most important friendship lessons you can pick up from Wednesday and Enid:

 

1. Opposites attract – and make the best duo

You don't have to be two peas in a pod or birds of a feather to be best friends. Sometimes, it’s the differences that make a bond even stronger.

 

Wednesday's cynicism was often balanced by Enid's unwavering optimism, and Enid's social skills occasionally dragged Wednesday into situations that (begrudgingly) would help her grow. Their contrasting personalities, perfectly showcased in their dorm room, proved that embracing each other’s uniqueness can lead into a deeper, more vibrant connection.

 

2. Patience pays off (especially with a Wednesday-type friend)

Not all friendships spark instantly – some take time, effort, and a whole lot of patience. 

 

Enid faced numerous eyerolls, sarcastic remarks, and flat-out rejections from Wednesday, yet she never gave up. Her steady kindness and genuine desire to connect eventually chipped away at Wednesday's notoriously thick walls, proving that true friendship is often a marathon, not a sprint.

 

 

Photo credit: Helen Sloan/ Netflix

 

3. Great besties challenge each other to grow

The best friends aren't just "yes-men." They're also the ones who aren't afraid to call you out when needed and push you to become a better version of yourself.

 

Enid wasn't afraid to tell Wednesday when she was being selfish or manipulative. In turn, Wednesday's independent spirit subtly pushed Enid to stand up for herself, especially when dealing with her mother's expectations. Growth happens when someone genuinely cares enough to challenge you – and sticks around to see you through it.

 

4. Loyalty trumps (almost) everything

When push comes to shove, true friends show up. While Wednesday might express her affection in unconventional ways (like, you know, not smiling), she fiercely protected Enid (and Eugene!). 

Enid, for her part, stood by Wednesday through monster hunts, murder mysteries, and near-death experiences. Their unwavering support for each other, even in the face of danger, is a testament to the power of loyalty in any lasting friendship.

 

5. Just one hug can speak volumes (especially from a friend like Wednesday)

Sometimes, the simplest gestures are the most powerful, especially if they’re from someone you least expect.

 

After an entire (first) season of Wednesday avoiding physical contact and emotional expression – specifically, Enid’s attempts at hugging – Wednesday’s final, unprompted hug with Enid was a monumental moment. It symbolized the depth of their bond, the trust they had built, and how even the most emotionally reserved person can find comfort and connection with the right friend. It was a moment that made fans everywhere collectively swoon – and cry!

 

The best part about Enid and Wednesday’s friendship? There’s definitely more to come, with Wednesday Season 2 now on Netflix. If you’re not yet subscribed to Netflix, the best way to get it is with PLDT Home’s Fiber Netflix Plans. Enjoy high-speed fiber internet with speeds of up to 150 Mbps, bundled with a complimentary Netflix subscription. It’s the best way to enjoy unli-entertainment just in time for the new season of Wednesday, so sign up or upgrade your plan now!

 

Stream Wednesday Season 2 on Netflix and enjoy more unli-entertainment only with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix – the most value-packed internet & entertainment plan with a complimentary Netflix Basic subscription. To learn more and apply for a PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan, visit pldthome.com/fiber-netflix.

How Filipino Households Are Navigating Rising Grocery Prices

 Filipino households are rethinking the way they shop for groceries, finding smarter, more cost-conscious ways to stock their pantries.

Recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reveals that while overall food inflation saw a decrease, headline inflation in the Philippines still grew slightly to 1.4% in June 2025. Despite this low overall inflation compared to other Southeast Asian countries, the cost of essential grocery items like canned goods and cooking oil remains elevated. In fact, prices for some basic commodities have seen hikes of over 20% in recent years, putting significant pressure on everyday household budgets.

Buying Smarter, Not Less

The economic climate has triggered subtle but significant behavioral changes in how Filipino households spend. Instead of buying less, many are prioritizing value and restructuring how they purchase them.

Filipino consumers are becoming more intentional, carefully weighing necessity, cost-efficiency, and long-term benefit before making purchases. This shift reflects a broader, sulit mindset where quality and practicality often outweigh brand loyalty or impulse buying.

This behavior is especially evident in grocery shopping. Consumers are increasingly buying in bulk not just to save on unit costs, but also to reduce the frequency of shopping trips and to secure better deals. 

The Digital Grocery Game

Another major shift is happening behind screens. As Filipino households rethink their purchasing habits, many are also changing where they shop, with grocery buying becoming increasingly digital. While digital grocery adoption surged during the pandemic out of necessity, it has remained strong post-lockdown. Today, digital grocery shopping has evolved into a convenient, value-driven habit for many Filipinos. 

Several enablers can help point to why digital grocery shopping continues to thrive. As of last year, over 75% of Filipinos own smartphones. Having a mobile-savvy population also means that Filipinos – especially those belonging to the younger generations – are increasingly comfortable with application usage and digital transactions. At the same time, continued improvements in delivery reliability, platform safeguards, and payment security have increased trust in online transactions, helping erase early skepticism around e-grocery fulfillment. 

Digital platforms have also transformed how people shop. Consumers now compare prices across multiple apps, looking for the best price per unit, checking bundle deals, and strategically stacking vouchers or coins. 

On digital platforms, groceries are no longer limited to dry goods and canned items as apps like Lazada now deliver fresh produce, frozen meat, dairy, and specialty items straight to consumers’ doorsteps. Lazada also provides consumers with easier access to supermarket items, bridging traditional retail with digital convenience. 

Tipid Tactics on the Rise

As more Filipinos embrace the convenience of digital grocery shopping, their behaviors within these platforms are also evolving. From simple online transactions, consumers have moved towards strategic, savings-focused habits. 

At the heart of this grocery evolution is the rise of tipid solutions such as innovative mechanics and promotions designed to help shoppers save without sacrificing quality. Digital platforms like Lazada’s grocery channel, LazMart, have responded to these pain points by offering “buy more, save more” deals that maximize savings, curating bundles that group high-frequency items into cost-efficient packs, and providing loyalty vouchers and stackable promos that reward regular purchases and help users make the most of every Peso. Ongoing deals such as discounts of up to 30% off on mother and baby essentials, “Buy 8, Get 8” grocery offers, and weekly promos with 10% of more in savings make LazMart a go-to online destination for practical, everyday value. 

These tactics are proving effective in attracting price-sensitive shoppers and fostering brand loyalty in a landscape where consumers are always on the hunt for the best value.

“LazMart was built to make online grocery shopping simpler for Filipinos,” says Emil Sobremonte, Lazada Philippines' Head of Retail. “We empower them to optimize budgets with stackable discounts, free shipping, and a wide assortment of high-demand and niche products, all delivered in one go.”

A Future That’s Cost-Effective and Digital is Here to Stay

What began as a pandemic-driven pivot has become a permanent mindset. Even as inflation shows signs of easing in the months ahead, experts agree that Filipinos’ value-first approach to spending is here to stay. More than just affordability, shoppers today demand convenience, price transparency, and smarter ways to stretch every Peso. 

This shift has redefined what grocery shopping looks like. As the experience becomes even more digital, platforms that empower consumers to evaluate, plan, and save will continue to shape the future of retail in the country. 

For LazMart, this means embracing its role as a digital grocery ally built for budget-savvy living. With accessible tools, curated value bundles, and customer-first features, it’s helping create a new standard of smart, digital grocery shopping that fits not only with today’s economy, but in the future as well. 

SB19 Bites into Pinoy Flavor as the Newest Mang Juan Ambassadors

 Everyday we try to find that extra burst of energy to push through. Sometimes, it’s those unexpected “Huwow” moments that give you the boost you didn’t know you needed.

Mang Juan, known for its asim-anghang taste and Pinoy-sarap flavors, is turning up the excitement with its newest endorsers, P-pop sensation SB19, whose electrifying performances and fun-loving personalities perfectly embody the snack brand’s ‘Huwow’ energy.

 

“We’re glad to know that Mang Juan is a proudly Filipino brand that represents the youthful Pinoy spirit—full of energy and passion that shines through despite any hardship,” said Pablo, who’s looking forward to enjoying both new and classic Mang Juan flavors. “It’ll level up our snack time as we continue to tour and perform.”

SB19 Enjoys Mang Juan

 

Whether they’re rehearsing or on the move, Mang Juan has become SB19’s go-to bite to stay energized despite their hectic schedules. “Nakakapagod ang training at rehearsals namin, pero worth it para sa mga A’TIN,” said Stell. “That’s why it’s nice to have a snack like Mang Juan that gives us that energy boost! Nakakawala talaga ng pagod, and it’s motivating too.”

 

Ken also emphasized the importance of supporting local wherever they go. “As a group that proudly represents Filipino talent, we always do our best to support local brands like Mang Juan. It tastes great and brings back flavors we all grew up loving,” he said.

 

“Huwow” Moments with SB19 and Mang Juan

Mang Juan brings out a variety of asim-anghang flavors—perfect for those exciting “Huwow” moments. For SB19, these moments have come often throughout their journey from being humble trainees to global P-pop icons. Despite their massive fanbase and growing success, the group remains in awe of how far they’ve come.

 

“We don’t really expect results immediately, but our fans never fail to amaze us. Their power and support always make us say, ‘Huwow!’” shared Josh. He also reflected on a recent milestone that their fandom, A’TIN, made possible: “We know we have loyal supporters, but we didn’t expect the reach we have now. Our shows are selling out so fast—like Day 1 of our Simula at Wakas World Tour Kickoff at the Philippine Arena, which sold out in less than seven hours!”

 

Beyond live performances, SB19 continues to shine on the charts. Justin expressed his amazement at their expanding reach: “Even when we check the rankings, we’re like, ‘Huwow!’ tracks from our Simula at Wakas EP are not only charting locally, but also making it onto international charts, even Billboard!”

 

Despite the massive success they experience, SB19 always makes sure to have time to sit back, relax, and enjoy delicious Mang Juan snacks with their favorite flavors – Chicharron ni Mang Juan Sukang Paombong, Espesyal Suka’t Sili, Chik’n Skin ni Mang Juan, Kropek ni Mang Juan Spicy Pusit and Kropek ni Mang Juan Sweet Chili Hipon. 

 

Check out Mang Juan’s latest offerings and updates from their newest ambassadors SB19 on Facebook.

Swipe, Earn, Travel: Maya Black is Built for the Way You Live Now

There was a time when black cards seemed out of reach—reserved for a select few with inherited privilege or elite access. But that era is over.

This generation isn’t chasing legacy. They’re choosing experiences, travelling more than ever, spending on what matters, and building a life on their own terms.

Maya understands this shift. As the #1 Fintech Ecosystem and Digital Bank in the Philippines, Maya introduces Maya Black, a credit card made for how this generation moves. It’s intentional, ambitious, and built for those always on the go.

 

Premium without the gatekeeping

Maya Black is a bold reimagining of what a credit card should be – not just inclusive, but elevated. Whether you’re building your credit or leveling up your lifestyle, Maya Black gives you access to the kind of rewards and perks that once felt out of reach. And people are getting it, with over 40,000 Maya Black credit cards activated during the soft launch alone reporting very high satisfaction scores.

It’s sleek. It’s numberless. It’s fully controlled in-app. And it turns your spending into Maya Miles. Earn 1 Maya Mile for every ₱40 you spend and rack up to 10x Miles at Maya Black Preferred merchants. Soon, your Maya Miles will take you even further – use them like real money, convert them to PAL Mabuhay Miles, or book your next escape straight from the app. You can even get 3,000 Maya Miles when you spend ₱5,000 within 60 days.

 

Still building your credit score? There’s Maya Black Express!

It’s everything you love about Maya Black—instant approval, full control in-app, and all the perks from day one. Just open an Express Deposit, and we’ll set your credit limit based on it.

Your lifestyle, elevated

Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges in the Philippines and around the world. With global Visa acceptance and an auto-refreshing CVV, it’s security and flexibility wherever your plans take you.

“Maya Black was built for today’s generation—those building careers on their own terms, traveling the world, and shaping culture while they’re at it. If the old system didn’t see you, Maya does. And everyone’s invited,” says Shailesh Baidwan, Maya Group President and Maya Bank Co-Founder.

 

This Generation gets the life they want—with Maya Black

Leading the way to the Black Card life are three icons who live boldly and shape culture in real time: Julia Barretto, Maris Racal, and Jericho Rosales.

“I’ve always been that person with a long list of places I want to see,” shares Julia. “With Maya Black, I don’t just dream it—I book it.”

“This card is for people like me,” adds Maris. “Anyone working hard, building dreams, and finally ready to enjoy the rewards.”

“I’m choosing what really counts these days, and for me, it’s all about experiences that matter. Maya Black keeps it simple, but elevated,” Jericho shares.

More than just endorsers, Julia, Maris, and Jericho represent the exact spirit Maya Black was made for: those who create their own path, chase their goals, and live life on their terms.

 

See how Julia, Maris, and Echo are living the Maya Black life—watch the video here:https://youtu.be/QHOKEEL8WHo?si=td9_AVwLoBHUPaH0

 

Ready to unlock the lifestyle you’ve always wanted? This is your sign! Apply for Maya Black now, only on the Maya app.

 

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated.Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor.

“ It’s More Fun Together’: M&M’S® x ILLIT Delivers Colorful Moments Across Asia

 Things just got a whole lot sweeter! Global chocolate brand M&M’S® has officially announced rising K-pop sensation ILLIT as its Asia ambassadors—fondly introduced as ‘Friends of M&M’S®’. Marking the first time a K-pop group has partnered with the iconic colorful bite-sized chocolate brand. The collaboration launches a major regional campaign under the brand’s refreshed tagline, It’s More Fun Together.

 

If “Magnetic” has been living rent-free in your playlist since 2024, you’re not alone. ILLIT’s debut single went viral, hit the Billboard Hot 100, and instantly captivated Gen Zs with its famed dance choreography. Fast forward to 2025, they’ve dropped their third mini album bomb—bringing back joyful beats, fresh looks, and energy levels that match a handful of M&M’S.

 

“ILLIT’s vibrant music, captivating performances, and their ability to spread positivity mirror M&M’S mission of bringing people together through the power of fun. Each member brings a unique personality that syncs with the colorful cast of M&M’S Spokescandies—Red, Yellow, Green, Blue, Orange, Brown, and Purple—perfectly aligning with our brand message,” Catherine Yap, Mars Wrigley Asia, Chocolate Marketing Director shared.

 

 

ILLIT expressed their excitement, “We’ve loved M&M’S since we were kids and they’ve been part of our growing up, so we’re thrilled to be joining them as ambassadors now as ILLIT. We look forward to having lots of “fun together” through exciting collaborations in the upcoming campaign—M&M’S & ILLIT, FRIENDS FOREVER!”

At the heart of this newly formed friendship is the M Dance Challenge, inspired by ILLIT’s chart-topping debut track, “Magnetic.” Featuring a bespoke, fun, and catchy choreography curated to the song, the challenge invites fans to participate through music and movement. Keep your eyes peeled for tons of bite-sized content packed with sweet moments between ILLIT and our lovable M&M’S Spokescandies—because when chocolate and K-pop collide, it’s an undeniable burst of fun.

 

The M&M’S x ILLIT campaign will officially roll out from July 2025, across South Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore.

Samsung Inverter Window Air Conditioner: The Smart, Practical Choice for Everyday Cooling

 Should practicality always come before comfort, or are there instances when it’s possible to choose both? If staying comfortable often means keeping cool with an aircon, a steep electricity bill might point otherwise. However, as a leading innovator in air conditioners, Samsung creates a unique opportunity for consumers this August to choose both with its newest Inverter Window Air Conditioner.

The Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a window-type unit that comes as the latest addition to Samsung’s line of air conditionersthat delivers cost-efficient, premium experiences. And with its long-standing reputation in consumer-driven innovation, Samsung users can look forward to the many ways their new aircon lets them upgrade comfort without downsizing their budget. 

Comfortable cooling that is cost and energy-efficient

Air conditioning units are most valued for how fast and consistently they keep a home cool. But for modern users, staying cool is no longer their sole consideration. An aircon upgrade can be put off if it will take up too much space. And staying cool can wait when money must be tucked away for a rainy day. 

The Inverter Window Air Conditioner, however, challenges those notions as the lightest and trimmest unit in the market, all without skimping on performance. Despite its compact size, the 1.0hp and 1.5hp versions of the Inverter Window Air Conditioner boast cooling capacities of over 9,000 kj/h and 12,000 kj/h, respectively, promising fast and consistent cooling for every space.

Even with that power, Samsung’s Inverter Window Air Conditioner is far from demanding. A strong indicator of this is its cooling seasonal performance factor (CSPF) rating of 4.0, and it operates effectively with only 220 volts of power.

With a balance of low power demand and energy efficiency, users can keep homes cool without dreading the monthly bills.

Compact, tough, and built to last

For those eyeing an upgrade soon, fitting the Inverter Window Air Conditioner into your space and budget won’t be a worry, as it’s designed not just so it could squeeze and seamlessly blend into spaces.

Housed inside the tight and sleek casing of the Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a hydrophilic-coated fin that helps it endure hours of daily use. As integral as they are to an aircon, the fins are also the most prone to wearing out. But with this coating, it becomes more rust-resistant and durable. And the more durable it is, the more users save on sudden repairs or replacements.

Altogether, the Inverter Window Air Conditioner gives users what most units can’t: the best of both worlds of comfort and cost-efficiency. From a robust build to the blend of powerful cooling and energy efficiency, the Inverter Window Air Conditioner offers users the opportunity to enjoy worry-free comfort fully.

Sign up to express your interest in the Samsung Inverter Window Air Conditioner at https://www.samsung.com/ph/air-conditioners/window-type/ as early as now, and receive a purchase e-voucher worth PHP1,000 for free. You can also purchase e-vouchers worth PHP2,000 for only PHP500 when you reserve an Inverter Window Air Conditioner now until August 10, 2025.

Learn more about Samsung’s Inverter Window Air Conditioners on https://news.samsung.com/ph/