Beko PH launches innovative appliances with smart solutions

Beko Philippines, one of the largest home appliance brands in Europe, recently announced the launch of its innovative products suited to the culture and lifestyle of Filipinos.

With the brand’s equity of creating meaningful solutions, the appliances are developed to aid consumers with products that make daily lives better and more convenient. Among Beko’s products are refrigerators, washing machines, and cookers, which all feature useful smart solutions.

NeoFrost technology: preserving better for fresher, healthier food

Keeping food fresh to preserve its nutritive value for a much longer time is one of the common challenges households contend with. To address this problem; Beko innovated the NeoFrost technology for its refrigerators.

NeoFrost Technology creates two independent cooling systems for both the fridge and freezer compartments. The Active Dual Cooling System delivers two times faster and more stable cooling effect. Also, the New No-Frost Cooling System maximizes the space of the freezer compartment as it prevents ice formation on the freezer wall.

The fridge and freezer compartments also have separate airflow, providing balanced circulation between its shelves. This ensures that the foods are stored in the most ideal condition with the right airflow rate and temperature level. This means that the freshness and nutritional value of foods stored last for up to 50 times longer than usual. This also prevents air transfer from freezer to fridge compartment thus, food is safe from cross-contamination.

ProSmart Inverter Motor: saving energy, maximum washing performance

Washing machines have always been one of the energy-hogging appliances. The reason behind this problem is the inefficient flow of energy that runs the motor system. Beko leveraged on improving this by innovating the ProSmart Inverter Motor.

With this technology, the motor systems eliminate the friction between its small parts allowing for better washing performance at maximum silence. As compare to standard motors, it not only lasts three times longer but saves 60 percent more energy than the other A+++ washing machines.

Apart from its durable inverter motor, it also has Baby Protect Wash program that eliminates unwanted bacteria and viruses on your baby’s clothes thus, making it allergy and germ free.

IndyFlex+ Technology: cooking made easier

A standard electric cooker usually has limited coils to generate heat for its entire surface. However, since the heat is not distributed evenly, cooking multiple dishes are arduous and slow.

To help consumers to cook better, Beko integrated IndyFlex+ Technology to its cookers. It uses eight accurately arranged separate coils, to allow consumers configure the size and the number of pans that they use, all at the same time.
IndyFlex+ Technology also creates eight different cooking zones that can either be combined or independently managed for all pan sizes.

“Beko Philippines understands the underlying needs of modern Filipinos. As we now live in a fast-paced environment, people need efficiency and reliability to overcome the demands of their day to day living. With that breathes Beko’s drive to be the Official Partner of the Everyday,” said Dyeun Zapanta, Beko Philippines Sales and Marketing Head.

Since 2015, Beko Philippines already doubled its distribution in SM Appliance Center, the company’s exclusive retailer. The company has also tripled its sales through its improved and aggressive product line that continuously meets the need of the Filipino market.

Beko Philippines will soon open its door to other business partners as it aims to reach more Filipinos and become their Official Partner of the Everyday.

To know more about Beko and Beko Philippines, like the Beko Philippines fan page (@BekoPH) or visit the website at www.beko.ph.

HANEP Buhay: Entrepreneurship Made Easy

One of the buzzwords that emerged out of 2016 is the “side hustle”, referring to income one earns outside one’s regular job. That the first world has lent mainstream credence relatively recently to this term may be amusing to entrepreneurial Pinoys who have long practiced or recognized the need for a side hustle, or what we’ve called it for years before the modern lexicon wanted to make it hipper, the “sideline”.

Still for many, taking a full head-on plunge into entrepreneurship is intimidating, but Best Value Factory Food Outlet’s HANEP Negosyo program makes it easier for anyone trying to venture into a side business and even grow it enough to become a full-fledged entrepreneur.



What the HANEP (informally short for HanepBuhay) program does is package small food businesses, consisting of a machine and free initial supply of goods to get you started. You can choose from a different array of machines and price points. The cheapest is the fryer, where for Php2,900, you can already start selling fries, squid balls, and snacks of that variety in your neighborhood/school, provided, of course, zoning laws allow it and you have already obtained the proper permits.

The best thing about getting your HanepNegosyo package from Best Value is the quality of the products and the support they provide their customers. “The original intention is for us to penetrate the market with our products,” explains Princess Guia, Sales and Operations Supervisor of Best Value. “We deliberately priced it low because the goal is not the one time purchase of the machine itself, but for the repeat purchase of consumables.” And customers have done just that. Best Value has seen the demand for their products rise with the introduction of the HanepNegosyo program.

Customers who have contracts with other suppliers often switch to Best Value’s products once contracts with their previous suppliers have ended because of the quality. “Even if our soft serve mixes are not as cheap as our competitors, I have talked to customers who switched to us because they preferred the taste and texture of our soft serve mixes,” says Guia.

That Best Value gets most of their supplies from their mother company, Oleo-Fats, a specialty food manufacturer, means these products are sold at factory prices. It is significant to note that however, that Best Value also carries an entire array of products and not just those manufactured by their company. Best Value has come to evolve from being a selling arm of the Oleo-Fats, into a full-fledged store, that sources their products from various companies to service their customers.

The convenience for entrepreneurs of not having to source products from multiple suppliers cannot be overemphasized. Best Value is a one stop shop that carries everything their customers could possibly need. For instance, the store does not only carry popcorn kernels, but also popcorn oil (there is a special oil to best pop corn kernels, also for color and butter scent), flavoring powder, and the various-sized holders as well. For the soft serve ice-cream machines, Best Value carries not just the powder mixes, butalso dips, hard shell coating, syrups, and a whole variety of toppings, as well as cones, cups, even spoons.  

The Hanep brand currently carries seven packages: Fryer, Popcorn Maker, Soft Serve Ice Cream, Juice, Granita, 3-in-1 Vendo, and the Waffle Maker, that comes in both conventional square waffle and hotdog size. The machines range in price from Php2,900 for the fryer; the waffle maker is Php8,500; the juice dispensers are around Php18,000, at the top of the range are soft serve machines at P100,000+, and Guia adds the mixes, other related ingredients and materials, all for free, “Basically everything they need to start.” And it’s not a paltry amount.

The soft serve package comes with 10 kilos of mixes, “which amounts to 30 cones with 2.5 regular twirls,” recites Guia, as well as dips, fudge and sprinkles. And yes, you will be taught to twirl because not twirling the right amount will cost you. Hanep also keeps an eye on business trends. More recently, the rise in kiosks serving churros has seen the company develop a churros package.  “Our goal is to come up with more Negosyo packages,” Guia offers.

What Best Value offers that other companies may not is machine warranty and continuing customer support. Some of the machines, like the Granita dispenser come from Italy, and the care and maintenance of the machine is a major consideration. But the Hanep program really encourages entrepreneurial ventures, with low risk outlays and even offering HANEP packages on installment. They even have refurbished machines at cheaper prices. The demand for machines is so high, that they sometimes ran out of machines. Hanep offers one year warranties on their machines, and you can still take the machine to Best Value for repairs after the warranty has ended.

If you happen to be near their office in the Libis area, the company is willing to send their repairman to your place of business. “We’re very flexible with our customers,” says Guia. They service clients all over the country and will ship machines out to their provincial clients.There are no franchise fees or royalty fees, which really gives the control of the business to the entrepreneur.

“The margins are small, but the goal is for the customer to see the value of our products. We want their trust. And it’s not just the products, what we really give them is the service,” says Guia. “I once read,‘The customer doesn’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.’” – a dictum Best Value has certainly taken to heart.

(Check out the various HANEP Negosyo packages at Best Value Factory Food Outlet at 62 Calle Industria, Bagumbayan, Quezon City, (02) 635 4437 or (02) 635 0680 loc 386, 0918-903-9328.Store Hours: 9AM-7PM daily).

Meditate Towards Lasting Happiness

Think of the human mind as a hard drive where all your life experiences are stored like pictures. We’re all familiar with the phrase, “I just can’t shake that picture out of my mind”, and this is also true in the metaphorical sense. We just can’t let go of certain experiences, and this affects how we go about the world. Often, this holds us back from achieving our true potential self because we are bogged down by the emotions and memories that our minds have held on to for so long.


We tend to look outside ourselves for the answers to life’s pressing problems, but to practitioners of meditation the answer always lies within ourselves.  Makati Meditation and Ortigas Meditation are two groups in the Philippines that encourage the practice of subtraction meditation as a method towards lasting happiness.

Humans take pictures of all experiences through the five senses – eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and body- and store those pictures in the mind. Pictures of our family, our childhood, fighting with friends, even memories of our first love, we have taken pictures of them and stored them in our mind. Stress, worries and all the moments of hardships are pictures in our mind. These pictures trouble us and we cannot escape from this for the rest of our lives. Throwing away these pictures in the mind is the Subtraction Meditation method.

The Subtraction Meditation is a meditation method that is composed of seven levels which is about throwing away the false mind or pictures in the human mind. The meditation helper guides students in each level. As one goes through the levels, practitioners eventually enlighten by themselves.

The first step is letting go. For stand-up comedian Tim Tayag, this has been key, “Now I can let go of my past, my mistakes, my false minds, and even meditation itself. As a result, I have a better disposition, and I am much happier.”

The change towards lasting happiness starts with self-reflection. Through the practice of meditation, the time and energy spent on useless thoughts are lessened, allowing one’s self to focus on the most important things in life. Before we start new things we should take time to look back to the past and assess ourselves. This also applies to our workplace, school and community. We examine our success and failures; we learn from our past mistakes and prepare to do better in the future.

For Emil Capino, a Chief Technology Officer, this came in the form of a more efficient work performance that has also spread to other areas in his life. “I can break-free from all the stress, worries and anxieties coming from my job,” says Capino. “Now I can do and accomplish more with a peace of mind and real happiness that no amount of money can provide.”

Meditation is the process of reflecting on one’s inner self to deeply understand ourselves. When we know ourselves completely, we can live the life that we want. Through meditation, we can find wise and practical solutions to all the root cause of our problems and complex situations that we face in our daily lives. “I have realized many benefits including mental clarity and greater patience,” says Reggie Ofrin, a Mechanical Engineer by profession. “Now I can smile even on the road during blood-curdling traffic jams.”

As much as we empty our mind, the more our inner strength takes root. When we empty our minds, the human mind transforms. Through meditation, one can have a broad and caring mind, being considerate of others, smiling more often, being calm and becoming more focused coming from inner peace. Having a clear mind, one can make wiser decisions in every moment. “I can find my inner peace without self-defeating talk or having to worry about judgement or criticism from other people,” says practitioner Gerilyn Baltan, who is a marketing manager by profession. The benefits of meditation bleed onto every aspect of your life. The normal tendency is to fix problems at hand which may not necessarily address to root cause of those problems, meditation is a holistic approach that everyone can do if they just take the time.

At Makati Meditation practitioners come to the center usually after work. Some of them come around lunch time or before work so they can make use of their time meditating in the center instead of being stuck in traffic.

They cannot emphasize enough that anyone can do meditation. Practitioners range from businessmen, employees, students, housewives etc.  People from all walks of life with diverse religious beliefs and nationalities come to meditate. While the language that surrounds meditation can be a heady concept, the objectives are very grounded. Increasing self-confidence, overcoming traumatic experiences, eliminating stress are just some of the main ones. So for people who hesitate with the jargon and find that inner peace is a little too abstract, there’s still a takeaway for them here.

At Makati Meditation and Ortigas Meditation, they often start with a lecture before meditation, which includes achieving the proper posture and participants are guided through the session accordingly. For beginners, this is a helpful process to orient oneself to the practice. Even longtime practitioners find guided meditations helpful when they’re finding it particularly difficult to quiet the mind.

At Makati Meditation they encourage participants to meditate twice a week. At first, a one on one session with an instructor is advised, but after two weeks, practitioners can choose to join the group class. Studies show that group meditations are an even more powerful force for peace.

Entrepreneur Catherine Dy credits meditation as a practice that helped her live a happier life, “I am free from stress, fear and anxiety. I am living a life full of joy, peace and gratitude.” 

Book your free introductory seminar at Makati Meditation Center or at Ortigas Meditation center now. 

Kim Soo Hyun graces Samsung PH “The Next Frontier” QLED TV launch

Kim Soo Hyun, your cute Oppa from South Korea, best known for his roles in the television dramas "Dream High", "Moon Embracing the Sun", and "My Love from the Star", as well as the movies "The Thieves" and "Secretly, Greatly" graces Samsung PH launch of QLED TV on May 26 at Okada Manila.

Samsung PH “The Next Frontier,” launches  a new era of television viewing with QLED TV. The event was hosted by TV Personality Sam Oh and attended by Samsung PH executives led by President Kevin Lee and media.

With its exclusive Quantum Dot technology, the Samsung QLED TV turns light into perfect color, making a powerful combination that revolutionizes picture quality. The new television line also offers HDR 1500 brightness and 100% color volume expression, enabling viewers to watch scenes just as how the creator intended them to be. It can also reproduce almost any color known to man, making HDR content more vibrant and natural-looking.

Beauty and functionality work hand-in-hand in the Samsung QLED TV. Its revolutionary design uses an Invisible Connection cable for other TV connected devices, removing the pain point of dealing with unsightly and tangled cables, and making it a great addition to any room. To further add to the clean design, users have the option to avail of the no-gap wall mount, which allows the TV to sit flush against the wall. Also available are an array of stands, such as gravity and studio stands, that can blend in with any living space.

A smart TV needs an equally smart remote, and with the QLED TV’s One Remote Control that covers all connected devices, users will have an easier time navigating whether they want to play games, watch sports, or stream their favorite TV shows.  Users can also turn their mobile phones into a personal remote through the Smart View app. More entertainment options are provided by the Samsung QLED TV as it comes equipped with apps, services, and other content through the Smart Hub.

To bring to life the qualities of the product that define the future of TV—superior picture quality, freedom in design, and smart interactivity—artists performed a dramatic and breathtaking dance supported by an integrated play of visuals. Experience zones were also set up during the event, allowing curious guests to get a first-hand viewing experience of the QLED TV.

“Each year we challenge ourselves into coming up with upgrades and innovations, but this year’s QLED TV really is the pinnacle of high-quality viewing,” shared Samsung Product Marketing Head for AV Jun Guevara. “From pure lifelike colors, to the easy-to-use One Remote Control, to attention to design inside and out—the QLED TV ends the debate and is undoubtedly the next innovation in TV.”

Samsung also welcomed two local ambassadors for the QLED TV campaign—award-winning filmmaker Paul Soriano and tastemaker Tessa Prieto-Valdes—creative industry movers and shakers whose unapologetic taste, individual style, and uncompromising standards match that of Samsung’s new line.

“We’re happy to formally introduce Paul and Tessa as our local ambassadors, who are industry leaders in their own realm. We believe that they are instrumental in showcasing the benefits of the QLED TV through their different fields and passion points," said Samsung Marketing Director Chad Sotelo.

The new line-up of the QLED TV is available in authorized Samsung dealers nationwide. For more details, visit the Samsung Facebook page or log on to samsung.com/ph.

Starbucks introduces Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino, Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino and more!

The summer break is over and its back to more hectic days, tight deadlines, and endless tasks.

Its a good thing that there's a lot of new Starbucks to look forward to.

Guaranteed to satisfy and please the most discerning of palates, these new Starbucks treats will help you take a break from the hassles of daily life.

Start off with the new Starbucks Frappuccino flavors that will surely make you fall in love with these classic favorites  with a new twist.

Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino

Starbucks introduces Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino and Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino, two indulgent flavors that are directly inspired by some of our most favorite desserts.

The Banana Split Mocha Frappuccino is a rich mixture of Mocha Frappuccino blended with banana puree which is then layered on top of strawberry whipped cream.

This concoction is then finished with regular whipped cream, a drizzle of rich chocolate, and crunchy waffle cone pieces.

Meanwhile, coffee aficionados will surely be pleased with the new Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino, handcrafted with Starbucks signature Coffee Frappuccino poured on top of creamy coffee pudding and then made even more delectable by espresso whipped cream and Turkish ground coffee sprinkles.

 Irish Cream Coffee Pudding Frappuccino

Coffee connoisseurs who are on a constant search for rare one-lot coffee will undoubtedly enjoy Starbucks Reserve Rwanda Musasa and Starbucks Reserve Nicaragua Maracaturra. But for those who are looking for the perfect cold brew experience at home, Starbucks has also released its Cold Brew Pitcher Packs. This is a perfect blend of Latin American and African beans that are roasted to bring out their rich and dense flavor when brewed cold. Its flavor is balanced, smooth, and rich with subtle sweet chocolatey notes.

To brew a perfect pitcher, simply steep the pitcher packs in your refrigerator overnight.

If you’re wondering about what best goes with the two new Frappuccino flavors or your perfectly brewed cup of coffee, well, Starbucks has that covered too! The new Lime Torte Cake is a symphony of flavors and texture with its sweet and tangy flavor partnered with crunchy and crumbly cake. For those looking for traditional Filipino flavors, the Mango Crunch Cake will surely delight you with smooth and creamy mousse with Philippine mangoes layered with crumbly and buttery graham and crunchy white almond. Chocolate lovers will surely fall for the Chocolate Marshmallow Cake, a moist chocolate layer cake with smooth and creamy chocolate truffle and then frosted with marshmallow icing.

Starbucks also has two new Greek Yogurt Parfaits that will entice anyone looking for a delectable and healthy treat. The Blueberry Greek Yogurt Parfait is made with creamy Greek yogurt layered with a sweet and tart blueberry compote and then topped with crunchy oat granola. Meanwhile the Mango Greek Yogurt Parfait is made with sweet mango compote and Greek yogurt finished with a sprinkling of crunchy oat granola.

Another perfect complement to your coffee is the Whole Wheat Bagel made with linseeds, rye and soy grits, corn semolina, and oats. A more savory option is also available with the Bagel Bites filled with Cream Cheese, the mini herbed bagels are generously stuffed with cream cheese that will surely satisfy you with every bite.



Visit the nearest Starbucks store to experience these new treats and log on to http://www.starbucks.ph/ for more information.

Watsons launches #GetActive campaign to inspire everyone to be healthy

Back in the day when I was 40lbs overweight. I had difficulty of breathing and walking. Each time I climbed the stairs, I would hear popping sounds from both knees. I got scared I consulted an Ortho. The doctor told me that I should exercise and gave me diet plan to lose weight. I was 140lbs back then. I got those unwanted pounds from eating pork, drinking sodas and indulging in too much dairy (read: ice cream).

I enrolled myself in a gym for 2 years. My trainer told that I should be fit in about a year. I got results for just 5 months of religiously exercising, eating healthy food and taking the right vitamins. I got my ideal weight of 108 for my height. I am 5'2 tall and managed to keep it for about a decade.

 Sam Ajdani

I cut my rice intake to 1/2 cup each meal, no sodas, no dairy, no pork and fatty food, no chichirya or chips. Those were trying times but I got used to it. With my regular exercise, it helps me manage my weight and reduce my risk of developing diseases.

Watsons PH launches Get Active campaign on May 23 at Square One BGC. The event was attended by media and hosted by Samantha Purvor. It was a fun event as Sexy Chef Barni Rennebeck  prepared healthy chocolate oats snack to the media.  Dr. Mitzi Reodica gave some lecture on what right Vitamins to take.  Sam Ajdani demonstrated some good exercise to be done at home.

Sexy Chef Barni Rennebeck

Dr. Mitzi Reodica

In a research  conducted by Watsons Insights on Shoppers Experience (WISE), a research division of the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer A.S. Watson Group, 66 percent of Filipinos believe they have good knowledge on health, however surprisingly, 57 percent do not exercise regularly to stay healthy.

This shows majority of Filipinos are interested on health. But, there are so many things that get in their way from staying healthy. Either they get too busy or get too tired from a hectic work schedule, family duties, household chores and long hours of traffic.

That’s why Watsons, the leading health and beauty chain in the country, launches #GetActive campaign to inspire Filipinos to be healthy through small, everyday active changes in their routine to improve their health. To be healthy doesn’t necessarily mean doing major changes and adjustments in our lives like starting to train as a tri-athlete, spend 2 hours in the gym 3 to 5 times a week, own a fancy health equipment at home, spend thousands of pesos on healthy meals or cook difficult or time-consuming healthy recipes.

Watsons Marketing Director Viki Encarnacion

“Watsons #GetActive campaign is one of our continuous efforts and part of our commitment to improve the lives and health of Filipinos by inspiring them to take small steps to improve their health,” says Watsons Marketing Director Viki Encarnacion. “Small steps such as drinking more water, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, taking deep breaths in between work e-mails, walking from one building to another instead of riding a car or taxi if it’s just in the same area, walking your dog during weekends, and smiling more often can go a long way for our health. The list of small steps which we can do is endless, our days are full of opportunities to do these and Watsons can be their partner to improve their health” adds Encarnacion.

Watsons Group Marketing Manager Karen Fabres

Watsons also recognizes the importance of a holistic approach to health. Aside from healthy diet and exercise, taking vitamins is also important. Vitamins bridges the nutrient gap people don’t get in their regular diet and lifestyle, and can help prevent illnesses.

There are different types of vitamins available and formulated to fulfill different nutritional needs. Some of them are:
• Vitamin A for immunity, vision and healthy skin
• Vitamin B complex for energy production
• Vitamin C for immunity and protection against diseases
• Vitamin E for cell damage repair or prevention and for healthy skin.
At Watsons, there are different brands and products available to fulfill every individual’s nutritional needs depending on age, gender and preferred form – such as Enervon, Conzace, Ceelin, Revicon, Myra E, Centrum, Stresstabs, Berocca, Rogin E, Fern C and Watsons Generics.

To further encourage its shoppers, Watsons is offering up to 20 percent off on select vitamins for select period of time in stores. And for its loyal members, Watsons is offering customers a chance to win trips to Bali, Guam or Sydney, or win an iPhone 7 or iPad for a min P500 single-receipt purchase of select vitamins and health products. Promo runs until June 28, 2017 and is exclusive to SM Advantage, SM Prestige, PRiMO and BDO Rewards Card holders. Promo is in partnership with Hutchgo.com and Philippine Airlines. (DOH-FDA-CDRR Permit No. 127 s. 2017)

So what are you waiting for? Start doing the small changes in your routine – perhaps on your next meal or next day at work or school!

Start to #GetActive and be healthy with Watsons! Visit any Watsons store nationwide. Visit www.watsonshealth.com.ph or www.facebook.com/WatsonsPH.

Technolux Business Series gets more people interested to start ice cream business

Budding foodpreneurs and business owners turned out at the recently concluded Technolux Business Series featuring Taylor Soft Serve Machines and Comprital Italian Gelato and Soft Serve Mixes held last May 19, at the Mall of Kitchens (MOK)  to learn more about the essentials of starting an ice cream business.

The event was part of Technolux’s ongoing Business Series rolled out earlier this year and brings product demos, seminars and client trainings among other activities in key cities across the country.
Participants in the recent event were treated to a highly informative presentation by Aaron Patrick Cezar, Sales Manager of Culinary Best Source Inc., who discussed the ins and outs of the lucrative ice cream business including keys to profitability using the right kind of equipment and ice cream mixes.

The talk also focused on the many features of Taylor machines such as achieving the correct twirl of soft serve ice cream to maximize profitability. USA-brand Taylor is the top choice of many establishments because of its track record for reliability. A worry free and smooth operation, very important in every business.

The event also highlighted the convenience, consistency, versatility and profitability of using Comprital which guarantee quick return on investments with its range of high quality, easy-to-use gelato and soft serve ice cream mixes imported from Italy.

Aaron Patrick Cezar, Sales Manager of Culinary Best Source Inc., discusses the advantages of Taylor machine, highlighting its reliability which is very important in business as this gives you the peace of mind and could focus on the business itself, not if the machine will breakdown.

“In any business, appearance of product, high yield or output and variation are keys to achieving a winning product and ultimately profitability. All these were discussed during the event as well as costings and ROI,” added Cezar.
Cezar said Technolux was very pleased with the positive feedback from the audience, most of whom have scheduled individual demos and R&D to help them get started.

The next Business Series by Technolux is scheduled on June 9, at the Mall of Kitchens featuring Vittore Italian Coffee Machines and Monin Coffee Syrups and Sauces.

isit MOK located at 9703 Kamagong St.,Corner Lawaan St., San Antonio Village, Makati, call Technolux (896-4941 / 899-5012 / 890-6758), check Technolux.net & Cbsiph.com to know more about a wide range of equipment suitable for your business needs.

Smart launches ‘Wonder Woman’ Greece fly-off promo

Smart Communications’ Smart Giga Movies treats subscribers with goddess superhero perks like never before with a special blocked screening of this season’s most anticipated superhero movie, “Wonder Woman,” happening today, June 1 at the Power Plant Mall in Rockwell, Makati.

Apart from the free movie tickets, #SmartGigaMovies is taking lucky subscribers to Greece via fly-off promo. To win an all-expense paid trip for two (2) to Greece for the ultimate goddess warrior experience or tickets to the Gal Gadot starrer, text SMARTGIGAMOVIES to 9999, then load up with any Giga Surf denomination to earn points and raffle entries.

Exclusive to subscribers, only Smart has been giving movie fans access to reed carpet events, perks and privileges via #SmartGigaMovies. Previous films included “Logan,” “Ghost in the Shell,” “Fast & Furious 8,” and “Alien Covenant.” #SmartGigaMovies lets you experience Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters like never before with free tickets and freebies exclusive to Smart subscribers.

“Wonder Woman” is the fourth installment in the DC Extended Universe series. Directed by Patty Jenkins, the film stars Gal Gadot in the title role alongside Chris Pine, Robin Wright, Danny Huston, David Thewlis, Connie Nielsen and Elena Anaya.

Set in the early 20th Century, Amazon princess Diana Prince (Gadot) meets American military pilot Steve Trevor (Pine) who was washed ashore on the island of Themyscira where Diana is an Amazon Princess. When she learns from Trevor about the ongoing events of World War I, she leaves for London to end the war herself and become Wonder Woman.

Track down #SmartGigaMovies and #SmartWonderWoman for more chances to win tickets to the movie and the all-expense paid fly-off to Greece. Don’t forget to text SMARTGIGAMOVIES to 9999 and load up on Giga Surf packages for more chances of winning.

Vivo V5s levels up selfie game, triumps rival OPPO F3 Plus

With a slew of smartphone brands vying for the patronage of tech-savvy Filipinos and inveterate selfie enthusiasts, top five premium global brand1 Vivo has sprinted past the competition with its “perfect selfie” V5 line, the latest of which is the Vivo V5s. Priced at only P14,990 but loaded with features that are not found in its competitors, the V5s is turning out to be the best smartphone deal vis-à-vis other brands in the same price range.

The newly launched Vivo V5s is equipped with advanced selfie tools, including an improved Selfie Softlight with an enhanced night mode, and the Face Beauty mode 6.0.



First, the V5s is equipped with a 20-megapixel front camera with f2.0 aperture, which trumps the OPPO F3 Plus’ 16-MP front camera. The V5s’ superior front camera is complemented by its 13-megapixel rear camera with f2.2 aperture and an ultra-high-definition mode that renders stunning HD images of up to 52 megapixels.

Second, the V5s’ 20-MP sensor ensures that the tiniest of details are captured in your selfies. The light-sensing area, at 1/2.78 of an inch, is larger than average, allowing more light to come in, which, in turn, enhances photo brightness.

Third, the V5s boasts of an updated Selfie Soflight that allows users to take crystal-clear selfies in any lighting condition—even at night.

Selfies have never been clearer and more vibrant with the newest and more impressive member yet of the V5 line, the Vivo V5s, which brandishes a 20-megapixel front camera and high-end selfie-tools for the tech-savvy Filipino



Fourth, the Vivo V5s has a Face Beauty 6.0, decidedly superior to the OPPO F3 Plus’ Face Beauty 4.0. The V5s’ Face Beauty 6.0, which works as a skincare tool, has three new functions: buffing, whitening, and enhancing one’s skin tone.

Fifth, the V5s touts still another cutting-edge feature—the Group Selfie technology, which supports both portrait and panorama-oriented photos. This means everyone gets into the act; no one is left out in the ‘groupfie’. 

Sixth, the V5s offers its App Clone, a feature that lets users run two accounts with the same app. With the App Clone, multi-tasking professionals and highly mobile millennials can compartmentalize their personal and social lives online.
Seventh, the V5s’ slimmer bezels make it smaller than the average 5.5-inch smartphones, and therefore easier and more comfortable to grip. 

No more excuses not to come up with that perfect, natural, and radiant-looking selfies as Vivo launches its most impressive smartphone yet, the V5s, which boasts of a 20-megapixel front camera and more advanced selfie tools.



Aesthetics and function likewise combine in the V5s. Its 2.5D Corning Gorilla glass cover renders it practically shatter proof and endows it with a minimalistic but elegant look.

The new Vivo V5s trumps its competitors within the same price range in terms of photo quality and camera specifications, improved selfie tools, and new features like the Groufie or Group Selfie technology.



Finally, the V5s’ other notable features include a 4G RAM and 64GB internal memory, Hi-Fi music technology, and 0.2-second fingerprint unlocking mode.
Whichever way you look at it, the new Vivo V5s gives more bang for your buck and is decidedly the best smartphone deal—in its price range—for all selfie-loving Filipinos.

For inquiries about Vivo V5s, visit the Vivo website at vivoglobal.ph, or check out their Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/VivoPhil), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vivophil/), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivophil) accounts. 

1according to International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Mobile Phone Tracker (http://www.idc.com/promo/smartphone-market-share/vendor;jsessionid=7595C1498F4F0FBF496CC767E273121B)

Actor-model Tony Labrusca, Hashtag dancer Mccoy de Leon to woo Vivo fans, selfie lovers at SM Valenzuela, Robinsons Iloilo

Superb product offerings come with great entertainment fare as top five premium global brand1 Vivo brings back actor-model Tony Labrusca and Hashtag dancer Mccoy de Leon to regale fans and selfie lovers on the second day of upcoming mall tours in SM Valenzuela and Robinsons Iloilo on June 3 and 4.

Labrusca, who rose to fame following his successful stint at ABS-CBN’s “Pin oy Boyband Superstar,” will serenade Vivo fans and selfie enthusiasts at SM Valenzuela, while de Leon will charm mall goers at Robinson’s Iloilo with his hip and rad dance moves.

Labrusca and de Leon will promote the newest and most impressive member yet of the V5 line, the Vivo V5s, as they bring the Vivo brand and its perfect selfie experience closer to mall goers and potential consumers. Lucky audience members will get a chance to bring home brand new units of the new V5s smartphones, among other special prizes and merchandise.

The newly launched V5s boasts of a 20-megapixel front camera with f2.0 aperture which allows capturing crystal clear and high-resolution selfies. It is complemented by a 13-megapixel rear camera with an ultra-high-definition mode that can render stunning images of up to 52 megapixels.

Actor-model Tony Labrusca commended the V5s’ 20-megapixel front camera and how it captures even the smallest of details. “The V5s’ high-resolution selfies are unlike anything that I’ve seen before. No need for me to adjust my selfie’s sharpness because every detail is crystal clear,” he said.

The V5s also touts the new Groufie technology, which allows landscape-panning effects in ‘groufies’ or group shots. It also supports both portrait and landscape orientations so that no one is left behind in barkada shots.

“Wala nang iwanan at siksikan sa barkada shots! Pwedeng-pwede na rin ang one big groufie with fans, salamat sa bagong Groufie technology ng Vivo V5s!” de Leon said. This new feature allows up-close panoramic landscape panning effects in capturing a group without squeezing in or missing anyone. 

The nationwide mall tour kicked off at SM Bicutan and SM Megamall last May 7, and continued at SM North Edsa last May 14, SM. Sta Mesa and SM Taytay last May 21, and SM Cauayan in Isabela last May 27, with young actor Paul Salas as the latest celebrity guest.

US team wins $125,000 in PH’s biggest DOTA 2 tournament

After a spectacular show of skill, team work, and determination, the US-based powerhouse team of Evil Geniuses (EG) emerged as the grand champion of the first ever Manila Masters, the country’s biggest eSports event presented by PLDT Home Fibr and Smart Communications.

Composed of Artour Babaev (Arteezy), Sumail Hassan (Suma1L), Saahil Arora (UNiVeRsE), Ludwig Wåhlberg (zai), Andreas Nielsen (Cr1t), EC edged out the formidable China-based Team Newbee with a 3-1 score in the best of five grand finals to win USD125,000 – the lion’s share of the USD250,000 prize pool.

Thousands of gamers, fans and enthusiasts showed up for the three-day tournament at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, to witness eight of the world’s best DOTA 2 teams battle it out for prestige and glory. EG and Newbee were joined by OG, Team Secret, Invictus Gaming, Team NP, Faceless, and the Philippines’ very own representative, Clutch Gamers.

As presenters of the country’s biggest eSports event, both PLDT Home Fibr and Smart pulled out all the stops to give subscribers a gaming experience like never before – from giving away tickets, streaming the games online, to raffling off awesome prizes at the event.

Relive Manila Masters 2017 with Smart’s official coverage and exclusive photos on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SmartCommunications), Twitter and Instagram (@LiveSmart).