Megan Young on why protecting your health and finances is key to living a happy, healthy, and vibrant life

Being the first Filipino to win the Ms. World crown, Megan Young has license to lead an ultra-glam life, but people will actually be surprised to know that she is “matipid.” In fact, she and husband Mikael “Fofo” Daez has a finance system in place where they have two bank accounts—one for expenses and one for savings. 

 

“I plan it out with my husband kung ano yung gusto ko, trips I wanna go on, K-pop merch na I wanna buy or new experiences na we both wanna try,” says Megan in her latest Instagram video post about living a vibrant life. That means sticking to the budget despite the “wants”. “If I know I can’t afford [the designer bag], bakit ko bibilhin?”

Megan Young inspires everyone to live a happy, healthy, and vibrant life with FWD Life Insurance.  

For Megan, planning your finances is one way to stay happy, healthy and vibrant because “you can enjoy and have peace of mind.” Why would you overcomplicate your life with unnecessary spends that’s not part of the budget?

 

Aside from being matipid and taking care of your finances, the actress and TV host on GMA’s The Best Ka! also included nutrition, exercise, self-care, and relaxing via traveling in her tips to lead a vibrant life in her video collaboration with FWD Life Insurance.

 

Megan Young puts great focus on living a healthy lifestyle. 

Nutrition and physical fitness

 

While the rest of the world do no-carb diets, Megan considers a meal incomplete without bread or rice and dessert! (Hallelujah!). For her, we should not be depriving ourselves with the food we want to eat. “I love having carbs, carbs, carbs! And also meat and dessert. We want to make sure we treat our bodies well. We can eat 80% healthy food and 20% kung anong gusto nating kainin.” 

 

Rather than focusing on diets, people should focus on creating a healthy lifestyle.  A diet puts her in a mindset that she needs to eat less, which should not be the case. It all comes down to moderation. Plus, exercise. (The secret to her smashing body, perhaps?)

 

That’s why even if she finds it hard—often second guessing herself like the rest of us why she is even doing it—she always makes sure she works out. 

 

Financial planning 

 

When you want to experience more out of life, she says, plan accordingly. (For additional health and financial tips, check out FWD’s blog). And she did not mean just the luxuries and the “wants”. 

 

Plans should also include the things that are important to you and your family like your health and your future coz we can never really be sure of what can happen. “Health protection…kailangan na ring i-budget ‘yan dahil mataas na rin ngayon ang medical expenses so we make sure that we have insurance para less worries.”

 

And it’s important that all bases are covered. A product like FWD Vibrant Critical Illness Insurance does that, protecting you from wellness to treatment to recovery. You’re covered from before you get a health problem up to when you get diagnosed and all the way to your treatment and recovery. 

 

Quite impressed, Megan enumerates every benefit you’ll get from it. “With FWD Vibrant, you can get cash for health screening so that you can monitor your health; you’ll also receive cash for medicines to support your recovery in case you get sick; and for your peace of mind, you can claim up to 6x for major critical illnesses; and on top of that, you get minor critical illness coverage worth 25% of the benefit amount. So, you can focus more on your health and celebrate living!”

Megan Young on why protecting your health and finances is key to living a happy, healthy, and vibrant life.

 Travel 

 

While planning is very important, there are times when we just need to let go and enjoy and appreciate life. As Megan advises: “Pause and take a breather!”

 

Taking trips abroad is when Megan gets to do this. This is the time when she and her husband can just relax and go with the flow. In her trips for instance, Megan likes to go to places that lets her get out of her comfort zone. There was even a time when they just went on a trip in Japan with no prior plans beyond the airport. After all, where they go and where they stay while abroad are not half as important as how they enjoy it. “Enjoy your time with your family and loved ones. Or even if you’re going solo, just pause and enjoy the view.” 

 

But don’t get her wrong. For Megan, planning is essential and is the precursor to living a vibrant life. Knowing you’re all covered—your health, finance, your family’s needs—gives you the freedom to just enjoy and let go. “We save up and take care of our health para ma-enjoy talaga namin these things. To do that, we always make sure that we work out and take care of our finances.” 

 

How about you? What are your secrets? Here’s a tip: start doing it! In the words of Megan, “we all deserve to be happy, healthy, and vibrant!”

Want to live a happy, healthy, and vibrant life like Megan? Set up a meeting with an FWD financial advisor to know more about FWD Vibrant and start planning for your health and finances. 

The New Galaxy S23 Series: Designed for a Premium Experience Today and Beyond

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today unveiled the Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23, marking a new era of Samsung Galaxy’s ultimate premium phone experience. Samsung Galaxy's epic camera gives users more freedom to explore their creativity, like capturing truly cinematic Nightography videos with transformative AI. The Snapdragon^® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy” unleashes premium experiences, including groundbreaking AI, future-ready mobile gaming feature and powerfully sustained game play with the world’s fastest mobile graphics.[i]  On the Galaxy S23 Ultra, an embedded S Pen[ii] that many long-time Samsung Galaxy users know and love offers more possibilities for productivity, notetaking, hobbies and more. All the Galaxy S23 series’ new standard-setting innovations are housed within a striking design that advances the company’s sustainability commitment with more components made using recycled materials than any other Samsung Galaxy smartphone.³

 

“The value of impactful technology is measured, not just by what it enables for people today, but also how it contributes to a better future,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “The entire Galaxy S series lineup is the new standard-bearer of trustworthy premium smartphone experiences. We’re on a mission to redefine peak performance by bringing together powerful, lasting innovations and sustainability."

 

A Samsung Galaxy Camera with More Megapixels and Extensive Creative Controls, From Day to Night

Galaxy S23 Ultra makes it easier for any level of photographer to capture phenomenal content. It offers Samsung Galaxy’s most advanced camera system, tailored for nearly any lighting conditions and engineered to render incredible detail. Improved Nightography capabilities transform how the Galaxy S series optimizes photos and videos in a wide range of ambient conditions. Filming a favorite song at a concert, snapping a selfie at the aquarium, or grabbing a group shot of friends at dinner — users can get sharper images and videos4. Visual noise that usually ruins low-light images is corrected by a new AI-powered image signal processing (ISP) algorithm that enhances object details and color tone. 

 

In a Samsung Galaxy-first, Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a new 200MP Adaptive Pixel sensor that captures epic moments with incredible precision. It uses pixel binning to support multiple levels of high-resolution processing at once.5 And because selfie cameras are more important than ever to how we communicate today, the Galaxy S23 series introduces fast autofocus and our first Super HDR selfie camera, jumping from 30fps to 60fps, for noticeably better front-facing images and videos.

For users who want the ultimate creative control and customization, the Galaxy S23 series offers a suite of tools that differentiate any photography experience. The Expert RAW app,⁶ available exclusively on Samsung Galaxy, enables DSLR-style image shooting and editing in RAW and JPEG — no bulky camera equipment is required. Users can experiment with Multiple exposures photo art or capture a clear view of the Milky Way with Astrophoto settings, and now, after being downloaded on Galaxy S23, Expert RAW features can be accessed within Samsung’s native Camera app7. Meanwhile, the new zoom capabilities on Galaxy Watch5 series’ Camera Controller app8empower users to capture a perfectly framed shot right from their wrist.

 

Additional camera advancements include:

·      Low-light or in situations that would normally create a blur, videos are stable with doubled optical image stabilizer (OIS) angles in all directions on Galaxy S23 Ultra.9

·        Recording videos feel more cinematic with enhanced 8K video1⁰ at 30 frames per second with a wider angle.

·       Advanced, object-based AI analyzes each detail in the frame, even down to minute facial features such as hair and eyes, to carefully reflect a person's dynamic characteristics.

·       For an even more enhanced video experience, the new 360 Audio Recording feature1¹ on Galaxy Buds2 Pro creates multi-dimensional sound.

 

On Galaxy S23+ and Galaxy S23, the iconic Samsung Galaxy camera also gets an upgraded look. The contour housing has been removed, marking a new era of essential Galaxy design that makes the entire series stand out.

 

Premium Performance Makes Way for the Future of Mobile Gaming 

For creators and gamers alike, the desire to push limits and constantly reimagine what’s possible requires technology that outpaces expectations. Together, Samsung and Qualcomm optimized the Samsung Galaxy experience with the brand new “Snapdragon^® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy”, the most powerful and efficient platform ever in a Samsung Galaxy smartphone and the fastest¹² Snapdragon available today. Meanwhile, on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, a 5000mAh battery¹³ powers a larger camera than Galaxy S22 Ultra without increasing the device’s size. 

 

A newly designed CPU micro architecture boosts the processing abilities of the Galaxy S23 series by about 30 percent compared to the Galaxy S22 series.¹⁸ Capturing stunning photos in low light requires trillions of calculations per second, so Samsung Galaxy’s highly efficient NPU architecture has been optimized by 49 percent to balance performance and power while using an AI algorithm to help users take epic photos and videos.12 One of the most significant improvements to the Galaxy S23 series is the optimized GPU, which is approximately 41 percent faster compared to Galaxy 22 series and designed especially for power users.12

 

In anticipation of the future of ultimate digital realism, Galaxy S23 Ultra comes ready to support real-time ray tracing as it comes to the mobile gaming mainstream. Users will be able to see noticeably more lifelike renderings of scenes, thanks to technology that simulates and tracks every ray of light. Plus, Samsung Galaxy’s vapor chamber, now bigger¹⁹ and on every Galaxy S23 series model, keeps your gaming marathon going. 

 

All this power underpins Galaxy S23 Ultra’s expansive 6.8-inch2⁰ edge display with a reduced curvature to create a larger and flatter surface area²¹ for the best visual experience on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Samsung Galaxy’s unique Enhanced comfort feature allows users to adjust color tones and contrast levels, lessening eye strain from screen time at night. Vision booster now adjusts at three levels of lighting²² instead of two to combat brightness and glare in daylight. 

 

Designed with the Planet in Mind

The Galaxy S23 series raises the bar for premium technology that can enrich people’s lives and help contribute to a healthier planet. Since the Galaxy S22 series, Samsung Galaxy increases its use of recycled materials from six internal components in Galaxy S22 Ultra to 12 internal and external components in Galaxy S23 Ultra. Galaxy S23 series also has a wider variety of recycled materials than any other Galaxy smartphone, including pre-consumer recycled aluminum and glass and post-consumer recycled plastics sourced from discarded fishing nets, PET bottles and water barrels. 

 

The new S series is the first to market Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2, offering durability for long-term use and consisting of an average of 22 percent pre-consumer recycled content2⁵. Plus, every Galaxy S23 smartphone comes in a redesigned packaging box which applied paper made with 100 percent recycled paper. 

With the Galaxy S23 series, Samsung Galaxy is doing more to minimize its impact on the environment without compromising quality and aesthetic. The Galaxy S23 series is UL ECOLOGO® certified²⁶, meaning that the product has been certified for reduced environmental impact. 

 

For users who want to extend the life of their device, the Galaxy S23 series’ premium experience can be sustained through the years with four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates2⁷. To enhance its longevity, users can also leverage programs such as Samsung Care28, a support service for accidental damages, repairs and more. 

 

User-Friendly Security and Privacy Enable a Transparent Experience without Compromise

Secure and private experiences are the foundation of the Galaxy S23 series. Every smartphone comes with Samsung's end-to-end Samsung Knox protection, which has received more government and industry certifications than any other mobile device, platform, or solution on the market. The Security and Privacy Dashboard on Samsung Galaxy gives users full visibility over who has access to their data and how it’s being used. With just a glance, it’s easy to see if personal data is at risk and receive simple prompts to change settings for a more secure experience. Users can also decide exactly which applications and programs get access to their data and how it can be used.

 

For an added layer of security, Knox Vault, which was first introduced on the Galaxy S21 series, protects critical information on the Galaxy S23 series by isolating it from the rest of the device, including the OS, for added protection against vulnerabilities. 

 

More Freedom and Flexibility for Connected Lifestyles

At the core of the Samsung Galaxy S series’ premium experience is the uncompromising innovation of Samsung Galaxy Ultra. But the power and creative capabilities of Samsung Galaxy Ultra don’t stop at smartphones. With the brand new, first-ever Galaxy Book3 Ultra, and the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, users can now enjoy an ultimate Samsung Galaxy’s ecosystem.

 

Across every Galaxy S series model, connected experiences get added benefits. Samsung Multi Control29, which connects mouse and keyboard functionality between a Samsung Galaxy PC and tablet, now extends to Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S23+, and Galaxy S23 for the ultimate flexibility between devices. Plus, enhanced text usability makes it easy to copy and paste text, like URLs, from one device to another to pick up an activity on another device. On Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Meet paired with Samsung Notes and the embedded S Pen now make video calls even more collaborative. With Google Meet live sharing, participants can simultaneously co-edit³⁰ a document from each of their Android devices, rather than viewing a shared screen^.31

 

Pricing and Availability 

The Galaxy S23 series comes in four nature-inspired matte hues: Phantom Black, Cream, Green and Lavender3². The Galaxy S23 retails for PHP 53,990 for the 128GB variant, and PHP 57,990 for the 256GB variant. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23+ starts at PHP 68,990 for 256GB variant, and PHP 76,990 for the 512GB variant. Lastly, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is available at PHP 81,990 and PHP 89,990 for the 256GB and 512GB variants respectively. A samsung.com-exclusive 1TB Galaxy S23 Ultra is also available at PHP 103,990.

 

From February 2 until February 23, 2023, customers who pre-order the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+ , or the Galaxy S23 Ultra through samsung.com will enjoy discounts of up to PHP 76,000, including a FREE Memory Upgradeworth up to PHP 8,000. They will instantly get the higher memory variant for the price of the lower variant within the same model lineup. Those who will trade-in their old devices can also enjoy savings of up to PHP 13,000 on top of their old phone’s residual value.  In addition, they will get an e-voucher worth up to PHP 5,000, a 50% discount on the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, and 30% off on the Galaxy Watch5 Series. On top of this, they will also get a FREE 1-year Samsung Care+ coverage worth PHP 5,999, and earn double Samsung Rewards points.

 

As an exclusive samsung.com offer, the Galaxy S23 Ultra 1TB will be offered as part of a limited-edition Samsung Galaxy VIP bundle with total savings of PHP 38,000. The VIP bundle includes the 1TB Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy Watch5 Pro 46mm, Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, Super Fast Wireless Duo Charger, Galaxy S23 Ultra Leather Cover, and 1-year Samsung Care+ coverage all for a discounted price of PHP 119,378. 

 

The Galaxy S23 series is also available for pre-order through Samsung Experience Stores, Authorized Samsung Stores, Lazada, Shopee, Abenson.com and MemoXpress Online. Customers who pre-order through these channels from February 2 to 23, 2023 will enjoy as much as PHP 65,000 worth of discounts. This also includes the FREE Memory Upgrade, additional savings for traded-in devices, 50% off on the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, and 30% off on the Galaxy Watch5 Series. 

 

For more information about Galaxy S23 series, please visit: www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s23/, https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-s23-ultra/, news.samsung.com/global or www.samsung.com/global/galaxy/.

  

The iconic Mojos are back!

 

Dining-in or ordering for carry-out and delivery from Shakey’s is never complete without the famous Mojos, those potato slices that are breaded with flavorful seasoning and spices and deep-fried to golden brown perfection.

 

When Shakey’s announced in January that they couldn’t serve Mojos due to a shortage of potatoes caused by global transportation limitations and supply constraints, loyal Shakey’s customers were heartbroken. 

To compensate for its absence, Shakey’s has been serving Mojo-flavored fries instead of Mojos in Luzon stores. People enjoyed the fries but they want their Mojos back.

 

And now the iconic Mojos are back!

 

In an announcement made by Shakey’s on their Facebook page, the pizza chain confirmed that Mojos are now available in all Shakey’s stores. Guests can order their favorite Mojos for dine-in, carry-out, or delivery! 

 

“Thank you for your patience as we built up more supply of your favorite Mojos. We’re thrilled to announce that ALL SHAKEY’S STORES HAVE MOJOS AGAIN and we can’t wait to serve them to you,” says Shakey’s Philippines .

 

Starting February 2, you can enjoy your beloved Mojos again! You can have the Mojos in different offerings such as Mojos ‘n’ Dip, Basket of Mojos, Mojos Supreme, and Chicken ‘n Mojos.

 

To know more, follow @shakeysph on Instagram and Shakey’s Philippines on Facebook.

HONOR X9a 5G top-up its stock for the ultra-tough HONOR smartphone due to the high traction of sales

After the huge buzz from the public and social media on the new HONOR X9a 5G, the leading global provider of smart devices, top-up its stock for the ultra-tough HONOR smartphone due to the high traction of sales and demand from customers.

 

The HONOR X9a 5G is the first-ever smartphone that was launched this year and successfully gained an overwhelming response from the public, especially the media, celebrity guests, and HONOR fans.

GMA artist and HONOR star Max Collins and other guests tried the toughness of the new HONOR X9a 5G in an experiential event held at Taal Vista Hotel, Tagaytay City.   

 

“We are overjoyed to the response from the public talking about our newly launched HONOR X9a 5G. Since we launched the phone last January 19, we are receiving an immensely positive response from our buyers highlighting the durability and premium design of the phone. We will be true to our mission that we will go beyond this year as we introduce more best-in-class products for our customers,” says Stephen Cheng, HONOR Philippines VP for Marketing.  

 

HONOR X9a 5G Pre-Order and Availability

 

Starting from January 20 to February 3, the HONOR X9a 5G will be available to purchase via all HONOR kiosks and partner online stores –  Lazada (http://bit.ly/3XHFPIC), Shopee (http://bit.ly/3XzEfrS), Tiktok Shop (http://bit.ly/3kfHhTS), and Home Credit.

 

HONOR fans can finally avail of the HONOR X9a 5G via Home Credit, for as low as Php 661 per month with insurance, Php 765 without insurance, and on a 0% interest installment payment.

 

Great news for HONOR fans who want to experience the wide array of HONOR products, the leading smart device provider is holding a week-long exhibit in SM Megamall and SM North EDSA – from February 2 to 8, 2023.

 

And on February 4, the much-awaited HONOR X9a 5G will officially hit the stores and during the pocket events that will be held during the day, interested shoppers can get to experience the viral phone and get FREE Premium HONOR Speaker if you buy from HONOR kiosks and dealer stores until February 5. . 

 

Catch HONOR’s exhibit at SM Megamall Upper Ground Floor, Building A and SM North EDSA 4/F The Annex, and get a chance to meet HONOR celebrities plus win exciting prizes.

 

For more information and announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorphilippines/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).