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Saturday, February 12, 2022

HUAWEI launches the most anticipated flagship smartphone of 2022, the HUAWEI P50 Pro


The long wait is over as HUAWEI launched the most anticipated flagship smartphone of 2022, the HUAWEI P50 Pro. With its strong imaging capabilities, blazing charging speeds, and state-of-the-art design, the legendary HUAWEI P50 Pro should be in everyone’s must-have list. And after its successful pre-order sale, more consumers can now purchase this powerful product. The HUAWEI P50 Pro retails at Php52,999 and is available in two color variants, Cocoa Gold and Golden Black. 

 


#1 High-end Camera Performance

The HUAWEI P50 Pro brings high-end photography with its True-Form Dual-Matrix Camera which comprises a powerful Main Camera Matrix and SuperZoom Matrix. And equipped with advanced imaging processors, HUAWEI XD Optics and XD Fusion Pro Image Engine that results in high-resolution images that are brighter and cleaner with more details.

 

The True-Chroma Image Engine and Super HDR technology color filter system enhance colors and dynamic range. With the True-Form Dual-Matrix Camera, HUAWEI P50 Pro is capable of 4K video recording on both the front and rear modes. The cameras also boast an unprecedented periscope lens. This allows users to take clear photos of objects at a maximum zoom range of up to 200 times. 

 

Unique Dual-Matrix Camera design

HUAWEI P50 Pro introduces Dual-Matrix Camera design, a notable feature that cannot be found on any other smartphone. The double-ring camera structure is an instant classic, symbolizing the infinite possibilities of the smartphone’s camera. 

 

This smartphone also has a 3D True-Chroma 6.6-inch curved glass display with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. Moreover, it is also IP68 certified for dust and water resistance and has dual stereo speakers that bring an immersive entertainment experience. 

 

Unprecedented Performance 

HUAWEI P50 pro highlights its capability to balance a perfect balance of battery life and fast-charging speed. It packs a huge 4,360 mAh battery into its slim body that only measures 8.5 mm, while also supporting 66W Huawei SuperCharge and 50W Wireless Huawei SuperCharge. 

 

Powered by EMUI 12, this smartphone brings an innovative UI. Controlling multiple devices at once can be achieved because of the Super Device features. Users can set up multi-device collaboration with other devices, such as the Huawei Vision, FreeBuds, MatePad and MateBook. HUAWEI P50 Pro can also function as a wirelessly connected external storage and transfer MeeTime calls from your other Huawei gadgets. 

 

HUAWEI P50 Pro users can expect convenience by getting the most essential and trendy apps. From food delivery, mobile banking, cashless payment, entertainment, travel, and books to games, AppGallery, the app market by Huawei, is ever ready with a diverse and growing variety of local apps that cater to most users’ everyday life needs. 

Live life with HUAWEI AppGallery 

Huawei users can expect unprecedented levels of convenience by getting the most essential and trendy apps. From food delivery, mobile banking, cashless payment, entertainment, travel, and booking to games, AppGallery, the app market by Huawei, is ever ready with a diverse and growing variety of local apps that cater to the vast majority of users’ everyday life needs. 

 

·       Tap and pay contactless payment 
Most-used e-wallets in the Philipines including PayMaya, GrabPay (via the Grab app), Shopee Pay (via the Shopee app), and more are ready for download from AppGallery. Besides, a contactless payment app for special needs such as GCash is also available to serve users. 

 

·       Shop everything via apps 
E-commerce trend is here to stay, as it provides an efficient and convenient shopping experience for users. Besides the “shop for everything” e-commerce apps in AppGallery such as Lazada and Shopee, users can also restock groceries using WalterMart DeliveryMetroDeal: Shopping Discounts or purchase health and beauty care products from Watsons Philippines. For preloved items, Carousell is a useful app for users to dispose of or explore hidden gems. 

 

Huawei has also partnered with Whaleboy, a renowned and multi-awarded Filipino artist, muralist, photographer and environmental activist. He is known for his well-loved paintings, large-scale murals of dolphins and other ecological issues in public places. Now, Huawei users can use some of his works everyday simply by downloading it through Huawei Themes.

 

Purchase the HUAWEI P50 Pro at the HUAWEI Experience Store near you, at the Huawei Online Store or in any flagship stores on Lazada or Shopee.  

 

HUAWEI P50 Pro

Huawei Online Store

Lazada

Shopee   

 

 

Vouchers (limited supply on a first-come, first-serve basis) and Worry-Free Services

HUAWEI app vouchers:

      1-month HUAWEI Video plus VIP and 2 HUAWEI Video Movie Pass worth PHP 310

      3-month HUAWEI Music Premium worth PHP 387

      HUAWEI Books book credit worth PHP 50

      3-month HUAWEI Themes redemption voucher worth PHP 150

      1-month HUAWEI Mobile Cloud 2TB storage worth PHP 499

The HUAWEI P50 Pro Worry-Free Service

      1 to 1 VIP Hotline

      Free Pick Up and Delivery

      Free repair under warranty

      1-time screen replacement with first 3-month of purchase

      Extend 1 year warranty at 20% discount 

 

*Visit Huawei Philippines’ official pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to stay updated on the latest promos and devices or to learn more about the app offerings on AppGallery.

AirAsia Philippines is celebrating all forms of love this Heart Month and easing of travel protocols with a base fare of Php 144 pesos



The world’s best low-cost airline, AirAsia is inviting Filipinos to celebrate their love this Valentine’s Day at various romantic spots – dropping its base fare to as low as Php 144 to key destinations. 

 

In light of the relaxed travel protocols in the country, AirAsia Philippines rolls out its #LoveIsInTheFare promo to enable everyone celebrating their love to have their much-deserved vacay. Those flying between Manila, Clark, Cebu; and Caticlan, Tagbilaran, Puerto Princesa, Davao and Iloilo, and many more AirAsia destinations may avail of a one-way base fare as low as  Php 144. The booking period for this promo is from February 14 to February 20, 2022 with a travel period between February 14 to September 20 of the same year. 

 

AirAsia Philippines Spokesperson Steve Dailisan shares:

“We are expecting that with the good progress of our pandemic situation, 2022 will be the year when Filipinos satisfy their pent-up demand for travel. We have been isolated from the world and our own destinations for too long. The P144 promo is believed to be timely as the Philippines, following its improving pandemic situation, have been relaxing protocols for both domestic and international travel since the start of February.”

 

Top Philippines tourist destinations are easing border restrictions, especially for fully vaccinated individuals. Puerto Princesa, Iloilo, Boracay, Cebu City and Davao City, for instance, are no longer requiring those with complete jabs to take an RT-PCR test. Tourists are still required to present either a Vaccination Certificate generated from vaxcert.doh.gov.ph or their vaccination card. Some destinations also require a negative antigen result. Starting February 10, 2022, the country is also opening its borders to tourists who are fully vaccinated from non-visa-required countries, provided they have a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 48 hours prior to their flight.

 

AirAsia Philippines also mounted a very special and romantic photo spot for life partners traveling via NAIA Terminal 3. Located at the check-in counters, couples taking photos in the AirAsia-sponsored area are encouraged to post their snaps online with the #LoveIsInTheAir for a chance to win two round-trip domestic flights. Installation is up from February 11 to 14. 

“AirAsia has always celebrated all forms of love as part of its commitment to inclusive flying. We believe that love – may it be for a lifelong partner or a friend – is worth cherishing. We are glad to be part of new memories made and more travel plans actualized,” Dailisan adds.

 

The world’s best low-cost airline, as it advocates for the rebound of safe travel, ensures all its guests that its multi-layered safety plan is effective in safeguarding their health and wellness. Measures like the full-vaccination of the flight crew, deep and thorough aircraft sanitation, and the presence of HEPA filters across the entire fleet are undertaken by the budget air carrier. AirAsia Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand recently received a 7/7 rating from the experts at airlineratings.com for their robust and comprehensive Covid-19 mitigation plans.

Friday, February 11, 2022

Ninja Van Philippines pushed for a customer-first agenda to support the growth and recovery of small and medium enterprises (SMEs)


Despite operational challenges, strict lockdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened the Philippines’ digital economy performance in the past year. According to the e-Conomy SEA 2021 Report, the country is expected to have a 93% year-on-year surge in gross merchandise volume (GMV). 

 

Capitalizing on a strong local digital economy, tech-enabled express logistics company Ninja Van Philippines pushed for a customer-first agenda to support the growth and recovery of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in its first-ever digital summit, DIGeCONOMY 2022.


“As the needs of SMEs continue to evolve, we, along with other players in the digital ecosystem, need to evolve alongside them. To do this, a customer-centric approach must be employed to be attuned to the changes in the landscape and consumer behavior, and assess how these can affect SMEs,” Ninja Van Philippines Country Head Martin Cu said.

The recently held event aims to plant the seeds in cultivating a community of e-commerce movers and shakers. Key speakers from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Go Negosyo, and GCash discuss operationalizing customer-focused services for SMEs and their customers. 


Arming SMEs with digital know-how and accessibility

 

The same report showed that while the Philippines gained 12 million new digital users, the country has the lowest internet users transacting online in the region at only 68%. 

 

To raise internet penetration and usage of digital services, both the private and public sectors have made great strides in allowing better digitization and opportunities for Filipinos through capacity-building efforts and internet accessibility. 

 

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) vowed to continue pursuing its mandate to promote SME growth through capacity building efforts and information dissemination. “We are still on the path towards economic recovery, and our MSMEs need all the assistance they can get to pivot in the new normal,” DTI Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona shared. 

 

Since the pandemic started, Lantayona shared that the DTI has conducted over 200 sessions attended by over 42,000 participants under its Jobs Training Pathway where participants learn more about e-commerce, e-payment, and digital marketing. It has also opened the Negosyo Center portal that aims to support digital transition among entrepreneurs.


GoNegosyo Executive Director Thermina Akram shared that their main focus in their capacity building efforts is to educate the SME network and encourage a change in mindset to embrace digital practices. “The pandemic gave us a picture of the level of readiness in the Philippines. There is no other time to transition but now,” Akram stressed.

 

“A healthy and vibrant ICT ecosystem creates a level-playing field for businesses, and gives consumers choices and quality service,” Advocacy group Democracy.net.ph Co-Founder and Co-Convenor Engineer Pierre Tito Galla emphasized. Promoting ICT rights, governance, development, and security, Democracy.net.ph pushes for legislative solutions such as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, which further opens the country’s digital market and grows its ICT ecosystem; the Rural Wired Connectivity Development Act, which augments wired services, particularly in the rural last mile; and the Spectrum Management Act, which encourages growth of wireless services.

 

Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Assistant Secretary Alvin Navarro disclosed that talent development, digital infrastructure, and information security risks are the agency’s top priorities to push for digital transformation.

 

Customer-first mindset

 

The report also revealed that the majority of surveyed digital consumers use digital services because of convenience. SMEs need to adopt an ecosystem that enhances the convenience of transacting with them by partnering with companies that anticipate and adjust to business needs.

 

“With the majority of the businesses under the SME category, we are on a mission to supercharge the SME growth of the country by building hyper-awareness to customer trends and needs,” Ninja Van Philippines Chief Commercial Officer Sabina Lopez-Vergara shared."

The logistics company has organized capacity-building efforts for SMEs as well as continuously cultivated relationships with communities and formed valuable partnerships with key stakeholders to provide support in digital transition and adoption.

 

Among its capacity-building efforts are the blog.ninjavan.co, a free business resource center that provides actionable content ranging from bite-sized tips to in-depth business insights for aspiring and established entrepreneurs; and the Ninja Van Masterclass, a series of webinars that provides lessons on how to shape and improve brands to increase sales. 

 

To increase connectivity and strengthen presence through relationship-building, the company engages with regional and provincial partners through the Ninja Van Caravan, which currently targets key areas in Bicol Region, Central Luzon, South Luzon, and the Ilocos Region. Ninja Van also has conducted roadshows with key shippers from different provinces and educated them about pricing benefits. Just recently, the company expanded in Cebu after Typhoon Odette affected the livelihoods of residents to help businesses recover.

 

The DTI-Philippine Trade and Training Center (DTI-PTTC) acknowledged the need for the organization to adapt to stay relevant to local businesses. “If we want to be relevant, our customers have to be persistent and continue to demand our products,” DTI-PTTC Executive Director Nelly Dillera shared. To achieve this, the organization continues to listen to the needs of SMEs and align their capacity building programs to address challenges.

 

In the financial technology sector, Mynt-GCash Chief Customer Officer Winsley Bangit shared the company’s enthusiasm in understanding the Filipino consumer. “We are always grounded on improving their everyday lives. In GCash, it means we need to be very agile and very responsive,” Bangit quipped. 

 

GCash currently has more than a whopping 50 million users, and to further enhance customer experience, the company studies consumer pain points and solves them through simple solutions with fail-safe products like the creation of personal QR codes and GCash Padala, which allows users to send money to non-GCash users.

 

Ninja Van Philippines Chief Operating Officer Vin Perez added that Ninja Van has also amplified customer experience further with its Hassle-free Service Resolution where shippers can resolve parcel issues faster and with ease. The company has put multiple touchpoints for shippers; increased its response time to just within 24 hours and resolution of non-delivery issues such as refund, damaged items, and pick-ups within 72 hours; and set up an email status notifications to notify shippers of every step of the escalation and resolution process.

 

Perez noted that continuous collaboration between the private and public sectors can further augment growth as the continuous enhancement of customer experience entails building an ecosystem that enables easier access to quality services. 

 

“Customer-centricity needs to be front and center now as we grow the digital economy. In order to build trust, we have to be able to resolve the concerns of our consumers. Making them happy and trusting is a big part of how we can drive forward this digital ecosystem,” Perez concluded.

Spotlight shares 5 makeup looks you can try this Valentine's Day

 

Preparing for a romantic dinner with your boo on Valentine’s Day? Or perhaps you plan on spending it with your gals? Regardless of your dating status, the occasion is the perfect opportunity to show-off your swoon-worthy make-up look. In the spirit of Valentine, 

Spotlight shares 5 makeup looks you can try as you celebrate the season when love is truly in the air!


The head-turner. Create the ultimate power look this Valentine's Day with Spotlight Scene Stealer Liquid Eyeshadow. This versatile, long-wearing, and budge-proof eyeshadow has a spreadable and creamy formula that can also be used as a highlighter. Perfect for when you want to steal the scene and make everyone around you stunned!


Bold beauty. Eyeshadows indeed add glamour and spice to your look– and the Spotlight Scene Stealer Gel Eyeshadow lets you do just that. This eyeshadow is smooth and blendable and transforms from gel to powder once applied. It produces high-impact pigmentation without creasing or fading, so its intensely metallic finish will definitely make your bold beauty stay on throughout the day!


Soft glam. A subtle yet jaw-dropping style of makeup might just be the perfect look for an unforgettable Valentine's Day. Flaunt that smooth and radiant filter-finish skin with Spotlight 2-Way Powder Foundation! It comes in four shades – the Radiant Porcelain, Radiant Sand, Radiant Oat, and the Radiant Taupe to perfectly suit your skin tone.


Natural beauty. A natural skin finish with a hint of an airbrush-like texture using the Spotlight Primetime Liquid Foundation is proof that you don’t need over-the-top makeup to make the right statement. This liquid foundation has a lightweight, long-wearing formulation that glides onto the skin for a natural, and flawless look. It comes in four shades – the Perfect Ecru, Perfect Vanilla, Perfect Suede, and the Perfect Nude – to complement your complexion and bring your whole look together.

 

The perfect pout. Your glam wouldn’t be complete without a perfectly puckered lip! Smooch it up with Spotlight Creamy and Matte Lipstick this holiday of love. This creamy lipstick is a moisturizing lip color with medium to heavy pigmentation. Its formula gives the right amount of moisture without being runny and sticky. While the matte lipstick has a smooth, buttery consistency and soft matte finish with high pigment not only to make your lips smooch ready but to also give you a perfect smile and make everyone go heart eyes for you!


Embrace the inner cupid in you this Valentine’s Day with these glam ideas! Checkout Spotlight Cosmetics’ Buy 1 Take 1 sale this February in Watsons and SM Beauty Store and Spotlight Cosmetics’ official page on Lazada (lazada.com.ph/shop/spotlight-cosmetics/) and Shopee (shopee.ph/spotlightofficialstore). For more updates, visit and like Spotlight Cosmetics on Facebook (@SpotlightCosmeticsPH) and Instagram (@spotlightcosmetics.ph).

 

Gigi de Lana, Markus Paterson and Kaori Oinuma headline PLDT Home’s new music anthology #SpeedThatMovesYou


This Valentine’s Day, the country’s hottest stars Gigi de Lana, Markus Paterson and Kaori Oinuma headline PLDT Home’s new music anthology #SpeedThatMovesYou that celebrates the power of connections in forming meaningful relationships and discovering love in all forms. 

 

The two-episode mini-series dives deep into different kinds of love and how the internet allows people to find communities, friends, even that special someone despite the physical distance. The series drops on February 11 on the PLDT Home YouTube channel.

 

The Duet

Gigi de Lana and Markus Paterson

 

PLDT Home’s first episode tackles the relatable journey between Markus and Gigi whose unexpected love story highlights the power of online connections to find love and support in the most challenging moments. 

 

In the episode dubbed as “Duet,” Markus portrays a popular singer-songwriter experiencing an artist’s block–struggling and under extreme pressure to create a successful music record. He finds solace in writing music for himself and posting it under an anonymous account on TikTok. Meanwhile, a young college student Arlisa (portrayed by Gigi) is a talented artist who sings covers and duets under an anonymous account as she prefers to be low-key and away from the spotlight. Arlisa discovers Markus’ song on social media and creates a duet cover which started their online friendship and a budding romance. With both of their characters living drastically different lives, will the connection that they built last?

 

 

The Confession

Kaori Oinuma

 

It’s been said that people need to be “true to themselves” in order to attain happiness but that is often easier said than done as Abbie (portrayed by Kaori) discovers in the 2nd episode dubbedThe Confession

 

The second episode of the musical mini-series talks about the importance of following your heart and being true to oneself. Abbie is a professional gamer and streamer who has amassed a considerable following online and whose dream is to be successful in eSports player. Her mother is an overseas Filipino worker who wants Abbie to have a stable job as an Accountant. Eager to gain her mother’s approval, Abbie juggles both her studies and her passion for eSports – a side of her that she hides from her mother. With a major eSports competition coming up, her class responsibilities piling up, plus the emotional strain of hiding her dream career from her mother, how will Abbie be able to have real connection within herself and continue to make her mother proud? 

 

Watch and discover how the fastest connections can help form lasting love and meaningful relationships in this musical series on PLDT Home’s YouTube page. You can also listen to the new original song “Speed of Love” performed by Gigi de Lana, Markus Paterson and Kaori Oinuma and written by the award-winning songwriter Jonathan Manalo on Spotify

TikTok celebrates Valentine's day with the launch of #BeCyberSmart global tool kit


TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile video,  is excited to celebrate this year's Valentine's Day.


With more than 225B video views about #love, the world is buzzing with feelings this season.  As more people turn online to find companionship, TikTok is committed to educating our community about the dangers of cybercriminals posing as a potential love interest online.  Follow these security tips:


• Take it slow - Ask questions and pay attention to inconsistencies that might reveal your online romantic interest is an impostor.

• Do your homework - Conduct a reverse image search of your online partner's profile photo (you can use images.google.com). If the results show the same profile photo on another site or with a different name attached, a scammer may have stolen it. 

• Don't play games - Don't give away too much personal information to someone you only know online, and be extra cautious of people who make repeated attempts to meet up with you in person.

• Never show 'em the money - You should never send payment or agree to accept money from someone you've only met online or by phone. 

• Listen to your heart, follow your head - If something seems amiss or you suspect someone you met online isn't who they say they are, cut off all contact immediately and report to the relevant authorities.

 

Download TikTok on your iOS and Android devices today.

Love is in the air at Ortigas Malls!

 

Love is in the air at Ortigas Malls! Visit Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia to enjoy exciting activities and win sweet prizes with your loved ones from February 10-14, 2022.

Unsent Letters

Can’t find the right time to tell someone you love them? Send your special love letter through https://bit.ly/OMUnsentLetters and get a chance to claim a FREE dried flower bouquet from Amor Blooms at the mall concierges of Greenhills and Estancia.

 

Sweet Snap

Strike your best and most creative pose at our Photo Nook and get FREE Goya Chocolates! Just present your photo and OC Card Membership ID at the mall concierge to claim.

 

You Complete Me

Try to complete the puzzle heart for a chance to win a Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken and Sauce Bar Gift Certificate! Just present your OC Card Membership ID at the mall concierge to claim a puzzle piece.

 

Not yet a member? Download the Ortigas Malls mobile app for exclusive perks and privileges when you join the Ortigas Community Card, Elite Pet Society, and Ortigas Malls Toy Club.

Available on Android and iOS.

Communitreats Exclusive! OC Card Members get a Php 100 Gift Voucher from The SM Store Estancia when they purchase two (2) Ortigas Cinemas Tickets from February 14-28, 2022.

 

Ortigas Malls are open daily and are now welcoming children! Mall hours are as follows:

Greenhills Mall: 10AM to 8PM

Tiendesitas: Monday – Friday 11AM to 8PM; Saturday – Sunday 10AM to 8PM

Estancia: Monday – Friday 11AM to 8PM; Saturday – Sunday 10AM to 8PM

 

Visitors can be assured that safety remains the main priority for both customers and employees. Ortigas Malls have been given Safety Seals by their respective LGUs which is a declaration that they have complied with each city’s precautionary measures set by the DOH and IATF to help prevent the spread of the virus.

 

Visit the Greenhills Mall, Tiendesitas, Estancia at Capitol Commons, and Ortigas Cinemas social media pages for more details!

 

John Hay Hotels Introduce New Service Charge Policy Aimed at Supporting Long-Term Employees

    In a major shift aimed at improving staff welfare  at the iconic accommodations in the Philippine summer capital of Baguio , John Hay Ho...