Gabbi Garcia is the new face of LazBeauty

Your go-to beauty bestie LazBeauty taps one of today’s most influential actresses, performer, and content creator, Gabbi Garcia, as the new face of the brand, where you can get the widest assortment of trendy products from trusted beauty brands.

Gabbi serves as a certified beauty icon with her stunning, classic-Filipina looks. A proud morena, she takes pride in embracing her insecurities and looks forward to her partnership with LazBeauty, especially with how the brand’s values align with hers. “Gabbi is the perfect personification of everything that LazBeauty stands for. She's authentic, confident, and she really continues to redefine how Filipina beauty is viewed today,” Lazada PH Head of Marketing, Kitty Calderon, shares. “With Gabbi, we at Lazada hope that we continue to inspire Filipinos, especially the younger generations, to embrace their most authentic selves.”

"As part of Lazada's goal to be the leading online destination for quality and trendy beauty products, we personally curate what goes into LazBeauty, and provide choices to our consumers that help them feel more confident everyday. We partner with local and international brands at every price point, some of which are exclusively offered on our platform. We want to be the go-to for all beauty lovers, where they can buy every beauty must-have at just one shop," Lazada PH CEO Carlos Barrera said. On top of having an incredible amount of choices, at LazBeauty, you can also connect with a community comprised of Beauty Besties where you get real stories and reviews to find what best fits your skin and budget.

“Being the newest LazBeauty ambassador is such an honor because the brand’s goal is to redefine Filipina beauty, and I’m super game for it,” Gabbi says. “LazBeauty supports us Filipinas by giving us access to these beauty products in such an easy way. They have so many choices and deals, so you can easily find the perfect match to help you be your truest self. Plus, fast and free shipping, which is so convenient. It’s beauty for everybody.”

The actress, despite being one of the most beautiful faces in the industry, has shared how she too advocates for everyone to overcome insecurities. “There are good days when I feel confident. But there are also days when I don’t feel okay. I overcome them by learning to just be comfortable with myself and not let my insecurities get the best of me.” When asked what she would advise to her younger self, the actress-performer says, “To my younger self, don’t change anything about yourself. It will be better soon.”

Gabbi confessed that her LazBeauty budol as of late has been stick-on nails. “Because of the continuity of my shows, I can’t really put on gel or acrylic nails,” she says. “So I’ve been recently checking out stick-on nails on Lazada for variety (laughs).

In terms of make-up, Gabbi’s number one must-have is a good lip and cheek tint. She also makes sure to carry a good hand cream and facial mist to keep herself fresh and hydrated.

Her tip on being more confident? “I have to make sure I’m comfortable with whatever I’m wearing and with the make-up I’m using in order for me to feel confident,” Gabbi says. Like Gabbi, you too can feel confident in your own skin at the upcoming #LazBeautyRoom – the first ever interactive beauty room that glows up as you transform into a LazBeauty bestie, on display at the SM Mega Fashion Hall from February 22-25!

LazBeauty presents the widest assortment of trendy and quality items that can help support you in embracing your own beauty. The brand offers up to 80% off branded LazFlash deals, fast and free shipping (as quick as three days in Metro Manila with ₱0 minimum spend, no cap), as well exclusive deals when you sign up as a #LazBeautyClub member.

Whatever it is you need to feel confident and beautiful, remember that #LazBeautyPH is your go-to beauty bestie that’s by your side with everything you need and more, dahil sobrang daming choices with LazBeauty! Shop now and like #LazBeautyBestieGabbiGarcia, add to cart your beauty needs by visiting https://www.lazada.com.ph/. For exclusive beauty deals, benefits, and a chance to connect with a community that’s as passionate about all things beauty as you are, don’t forget to sign up as a #LazBeautyClub member.

Keep posted on the latest updates by following https://www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines and https://www.instagram.com/LazadaPH/.

j-hope of BTS brings it all and does it all in j-hope IN THE BOX

From today, viewers across the world are invited to watch in wonder on Disney+ as j-hope of BTS brings it all and does it all in j-hope IN THE BOX, a behind the scenes documentary special showcasing the creation of his first solo album.

Starring j-hope of the 21^st century pop icons BTS, the newly released j-hope IN THE BOX follows the international music sensation every step of the way as he works to release his first solo album - Jack In The Box. Viewers will be given a close look at the creative process of the artist during the album’s preparation, as well as front row seats to j-hope’s 2022 Lollapalooza performance.

Also available on Disney+, viewers can enjoy BTS: PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA, an exclusive cinematic 4K concert film featuring BTS’ live performance at Los Angeles’ Sofi Stadium in November 2021; and IN THE SOOP : Friendcation – an original travel reality show with a star-studded cast including V of BTS, Itaewon Class’ Park Seojun, Parasite star Choi Wooshik, Soundtrack #1’s Park Hyungsik, and Peakboy, as the five friends venture off on a surprise trip and enjoy a variety of fun leisure activities together.

Stream j-hope IN THE BOX on Disney+ today.

Twitter: @DisneyPlusPH

Instagram: @DisneyPlusPH

Facebook: @DisneyPlusPH

TikTok: @DisneyPlusPH

Hashtag: #DisneyPlusPH, #jhope

 

Smart is still the Philippines’ Fastest and Best Mobile Network Award, according to the latest report by Ookla

PLDT's wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is still the Philippines’ Fastest and Best Mobile Network Award, according to the latest report by Ookla®, the global leader in mobile and broadband network intelligence. 

After making history as the first and only Philippine mobile operator to win Ookla’s Best Mobile Network award for the Q1-Q2 2022 reporting period, Smart set another record for clinching the award in the firm's report covering Q3-Q4 2022*.

To clinch this rare and prestigious citation, Smart won both the Fastest Mobile Network and Best Mobile Coverage awards within the same reporting periods of Ookla.

"These awards continue to inspire us to innovate and deliver leveled-up services to our customers across the country, in our quest to power their increasingly digital lifestyles, foster meaningful connections, and become the telco that our subscribers can truly count on," said Emmanuel C. Lorenzana, PLDT Chief Transformation & Customer Advisor.

The Philippines' Fastest Mobile Network

Ookla's latest report showed Smart ahead of competitors in terms of Speed and Coverage Scores. 

Smart bagged the ‘Fastest Mobile Network’ with a Speed Score of 62.3, while its closest competitor posted a Speed Score of 36.36. 

To win this category, Smart posted a median download speed of 31.04 Mbps and a median upload speed of 6.8 Mbps, while its closest competitors posted a median download speed of 20.22 Mbps and a median upload speed of 5.13 Mbps.   

The Philippines' Widest LTE Coverage

Smart also dominated the ‘Best Mobile Coverage’ category with a Coverage 795, surpassing its closest competitor’s Coverage Score of 757. The Coverage Score captures both the number of locations in which an operator offers service (its footprint) and the quality of service in each location, according to Ookla.   

The Fastest Mobile Network award is based on more than 2.9 million user-initiated tests, whereas the Coverage Award is based on over 3.4 million scan counts. 

Elite designation for operators around the world

Ookla's report also showed that Smart outpaced competitors in key cities across the country, being the Fastest Mobile Network in Quezon City, Cebu City and Davao City. 

“Speedtest Awards, presented by Ookla, are an elite designation reserved for the fastest and top-performing fixed broadband and mobile operators around the world." It is our pleasure to present Smart with the award for Fastest Mobile Network, Best Coverage which gives Smart a high accolade of Best Mobile Network in the Philippines. This recognition is testament to their exceptional performance in Q3-Q4 2022 based on Ookla's rigorous analysis of consumer-initiated tests taken with Speedtest” said Doug Suttles, CEO at Ookla. 

Empowering subscribers to live more today

“Our relentless efforts at improving our network have enabled Smart to receive these accolades once again. This year, we will continue to empower Filipinos with Smart's fastest speeds and widest coverage, and at the same time provide our Smart and TNT subscribers with value-packed offers and awesome experiences. We want to enable our subscribers to live more today and make the most of the moments that matter to them," said Francis E. Flores, SVP and Head of Consumer Business Group - Individual at Smart.   

Underpinning this level of performance is PLDT and Smart's integrated fixed and wireless networks.  As of end-September, Smart had deployed 77,200 base stations nationwide, including 7,300 5G base stations and close to 40,000 4G/LTE base stations. Smart’s network covers about 97% of the population with 3G, LTE, and 5G. It is supported by the country's most extensive fiber network, which spanned more than 1.09 million kilometers in international and domestic fiber as of end-September. 

To continue enjoying Smart's fastest speeds and widest coverage, subscribers are encouraged to register their SIMs, in line with the newly enacted SIM Registration Law. Aside from launching its online SIM Registration portal at http://www.smart.com.ph/simreg, Smart has also ramped up its rollout of assisted SIM Registration booths and touchpoints across the country, including in government-identified remote areas. 

For more information about SIM Registration, visit http://www.smart.com.ph/Pages/simreg-faqs

for Smart subscribers, and http://www.tntph.com/sim-reg for TNT subscribers.

  

*Disclaimer: Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q3–Q4 2022. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission. 

Metrobank introduces the Metrobank Home Loan's Free Appraisal Fee promo

As you start on your big property investment this year, Metrobank gives you one less thing to worry about!

 

Metrobank is making the Php5,500 appraisal fee FREE for Metrobank Home Loan borrowers who will submit their complete application today until March 31, 2023.

 

With this, Metrobank helps you on the first step to move in to your dream home

 

“We keep on seeking meaningful ways to help our clients achieve their goals. By waiving our appraisal fee, they have one less thing to worry about as they build their dream house,” said Ramon Jaime Del Rosario, Metrobank SVP and Consumer Business Sector Head.

 

Apply for your home loan now at the nearest Metrobank Branch or through the Metrobank website, https://www.metrobank.com.ph/upgrade/home-loan.

Metrobank is the country’s second largest private universal bank with an extensive consolidated network that spans over 2,300 ATMs nationwide, over 940 domestic branches, and above 30 foreign branches, subsidiaries, and representative offices.

 

 

Sony is redefining the standard zoom category of lenses with the introduction of the FE 20-70mm F4 G

Known as the SEL2070G that boasts an ultra-wide 20-70mm zoom range in a remarkably compact, lightweight full-frame lens, with a constant F4 aperture throughout the zoom range. 

 

With impressive G Lens^TM image quality, high-speed accuracy and tracking AF, and a smart design for maximum mobility and operability, this new lens is designed for a wide range of creators. The FE 20-70mm F4 G is the perfect choice for vlogging, movie production, and still portrait and landscape shots. 

The Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G (SEL2070G)

According to professional photographer and Sony Philippines Product Expert Nicco Valenzuela, the FE 20-70mm F4 G is comparably lighter and more compact than most standard zoom lenses with a constant aperture. As a photographer himself, this lens will be of significant help when packing camera equipment for shoots. There are also instances when photographers do not want to carry a separate ultra-wide angle lens with them, so the capability of the FE 20-70mm F4 G to go all the way to 20mm wide is really handy and offers significant versatility.

 

“The introduction of the FE 20-70mm F4 G sees the standard zoom category of lenses redefined”, said Yasufumi Machitani, General Manager, Digital Imaging Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific. “The new concept lens has an incredible, ultra-wide zoom range from 20mm through to 70mm to ensure true versatility – perfectly designed for both still and video creators with its sophisticated imagery and high-level operability”, he added.

 

Compact and lightweight new standard zoom covers ultra-wide 20-70mm​, the FE 20-70mm F4 G just weighs only 488g but offers outstanding optical performance in a remarkably compact, lightweight size thanks to Sony’s latest lens design and XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors technology.​ 

 

What’s more, the ultra-wide 20mm end of the zoom range makes it possible to maintain a wide angle of view when shooting video with a 16:9 or 2.35:1 aspect ratio.

Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela using the Sony α7R V Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela using the Sony α7R V

 

Outstanding image quality consistent with the G Lens logo

The new lens boasts unique G Lens image quality that produces a state-of-the-art optical design that simultaneously corrects chromatic and spherical aberration for extremely high optical performance across the whole zoom range. Optimized coatings add high flare and ghost resistance to this superior optical design, for extraordinary contrast and clarity.​ Furthermore, beautiful bokeh is achieved with full-frame image sensors and is further enhanced by a 9-blade circular aperture and optimally tuned spherical aberration.

 

“The implications of this in landscape and nature photography is that it focuses closer. By closer, I mean this can focus at 0.25 meters close, and this is significant because most standard zoom lenses can focus at around 0.32 to 0.38 at most. This can focus on details much closer, such as flowers and medium-sized insects which counts as near-macro capabilities. At the same time, focusing closer can help landscape photographers do focus-stacked wide images of vistas that create the most detailed output possible. Even more conveniently, this close focusing capability can be used in tandem with the new Sony α7R V’s automated focus bracketing mode that greatly simplifies the focus stacking workflow,” said Valenzuela.

Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela using the Sony A7RV camera with the Sony FE 20-70mm F4 G lens

 

Maximises camera AF performance for stills and video

The lens’s focus group is driven by two of Sony’s latest XD Linear Motors, providing high thrust for a fast, quiet, low-vibration focus drive. Thrust efficiency has been significantly improved over previous models[i], resulting in up to a 60% increase in AF speed[ii].

 

Video performance designed for refined imagery

The FE 20-70mm F4 G reduces focus breathing as well as focus and axial shift when zooming to ensure that the highest quality images are captured. 

 

Alpha^TM series cameras’ Active Mode[iii] image stabilization is highly effective at the ultra-wide 20 mm end of the FE 20-70mm F4 G zoom range, providing excellent image stabilization performance, whilst maintaining a wide angle of view. This can be particularly useful for shooting smooth, stable handheld footage whilst walking.

 

Focus is especially critical when shooting high-resolution 4K or 8K movies. The FE 20-70mm F4 G works with Alpha^TM series camera bodies to easily acquire accurate focus and smoothly track fast-moving subjects.

 

High-level operability and reliability for any environment

The new FE 20-70mm F4 G’s independent focus, zoom, and aperture rings feature optimized diameter, width, and positioning for full control when shooting stills as well as maximum versatility when recording video. ​

Photographed by Nicco Valenzuela 

 

The new FE 20-70mm F4 G is priced at P75,000 and will be available in select Sony Authorized Dealers nationwide starting February 17, 2023. Find out more information about the SEL2070G here: https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/camera-lenses/sel2070g.

 

Development of New G Master™ 300mm F2.8 Telephoto Full-Frame E-mount Lens

In addition to this stunning new lens, Sony also announced the development of the long-awaited FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Telephoto lens that is set to launch in early 2024.  

 

Large-aperture super-telephoto lenses like the FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS and FE 600mm F4 GM OSS are highly acclaimed by sports and wildlife photographers around the world for their outstanding resolution and AF performance. As such, the new lens will feature the incredible high-resolution and spectacularly beautiful bokeh of Sony's acclaimed line of flagship G Master™ series lenses, whilst also offering a far-reaching 300 mm focal length and F2.8 large aperture.  

 

Follow /SonyPhilippines on Facebook and @sonyphinc on Instagram to stay updated on FE 300mm F2.8 GM OSS Telephoto lens announcements.

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[i] Compared to the SEL2470Z.

[ii] Compared to the SEL2470Z. Sony test conditions.

[iii] With a compatible camera. Active Mode causes a slight reduction in angle of view.

ANT-MAN EPISODES OF “MARVEL STUDIOS LEGENDS” NOW ON YOUTUBE

 

 

“Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” launches Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but before diving into the Quantum Realm, fans can catch up with Marvel Super Heroes Ant-Man (Scott Lang), The Wasp (Hope Van Dyne), Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne with three episodes of the Disney+ Original Series “Marvel Studios LEGENDS,” now available for the first time on Marvel YouTube.

Launched in 2021, the Disney+ Original Series “Marvel Studios LEGENDS” explores and celebrates the epic heroes and villains of the MCU, and the moments that made them. All 29 episodes of “Marvel Studios LEGENDS” are streaming now on Disney+.

Episodes available on YouTube:

Episode 1: Ant-Man

LEGENDS traces those moments big and small that transformed Scott Lang into the tiniest of Earth’s mightiest heroes. Scott faces off against powerful adversaries, meets the love of his life and becomes the dad he was destined to be. Oh, and it’s Ant-Man who winds up providing the key to defeating Thanos and saving the universe. He’s kind of a huge deal. 

Episode 2: The Wasp

All her life, Hope was shielded from the action by her overprotective father, inventor Hank Pym. But when the Pym Particles fell into the wrong hands, Hope reluctantly trained a thief named Scott Lang to become Ant-Man. In time, Hope donned a suit and wings herself, and was transformed into The Wasp. LEGENDS follows Hope’s journey, one that leads to her fighting alongside the Avengers.

Episode 3: Hank & Janet

Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyne were the original Ant-Man and The Wasp, but after an epic show of bravery, Janet was lost forever… or so Hank thought. LEGENDS chronicles Hank’s journey, as he goes from dedicated scientist to overprotective father. Eventually, with the help of burglar-turned-hero Scott Lang, Hank and his daughter rescued Janet from the Quantum Realm, and the remarkable family was reunited. 

Watch now on YouTube or Disney+, and don’t miss “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” in theaters now.

Super Heroes Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) and Hope Van Dyne (Evangeline Lilly) return to continue their adventures as Ant-Man and The Wasp. Together, with Hope’s parents Janet Van Dyne (Michelle Pfeiffer) and Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), and Scott’s daughter Cassie Lang (Kathryn Newton), the family finds themselves exploring the Quantum Realm, interacting with strange new creatures and embarking on an adventure that will push them beyond the limits of what they thought possible. Directed by Peyton Reed and produced by Kevin Feige, p.g.a. and Stephen Broussard, p.g.a., “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” also stars Jonathan Majors as Kang, David Dastmalchian as Veb, Katy O'Brian as Jentorra, William Jackson Harper as Quaz and Bill Murray as Lord Krylar.

Twitter: @DisneyPlusPH; @MarvelStudiosPH 

Instagram: @DisneyPlusPH; @MarvelPhilippines 

Facebook: @DisneyPlusPH; @MarvelPhilippines

TikTok: @DisneyPlusPH

Hashtag: #DisneyPlusPH, #AntManAndTheWaspPH, #QuantumaniaPH

Every Juan can fly now to their dream vacations with CEB Fare Bundles

Cebu Pacific (PSE:CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, encourages every Juan to fly now to their dream vacations with CEB Fare Bundles, allowing them to save up to 28% on their baggage, seat, and CEB Flexi fees when booking their flights across the airline’s widest domestic and international network. 

CEB is giving every Juan more opportunities to reach their destination of choice by offering three kinds of Fare Bundles, depending on their travel needs: Go Basic, Go Easy, and Go Flexi.

By availing Go Basic, you can pay for your airfare and get one hand carry baggage weighing up to 7 kilograms for free. With Go Easy, you can choose your own standard seat and check-in one piece of baggage weighing up to 20 kilograms. 

Score the biggest discount on your seat and baggage fees and automatically get a CEB Flexi add-on with Go Flexi. This means you can voluntarily cancel your flight and store its amount in your Travel Fund and get all the benefits of the Go Easy bundle. 

To avail, simply choose any of these Fare Bundles when booking your flights through CEB’s website or mobile app. The bundles may also be purchased through CEB’s ticket offices and as well as third-party sales offices. 

Each Fare Bundle must be purchased at initial booking for the discount to apply. CEB Fare Bundles may not be refunded, transferred to another passenger, or stored in a Travel Fund without a purchased CEB Flexi add-on. To know more about this feature, visit this page. 

CEB is set to restore 100% of its pre-COVID network and capacity in March 2023. It now flies to 34 domestic destinations and is set to bring back all its 25 international destinations in the first quarter of the year. 

Book your seats now via www.cebupacificair.com.

Achieving fitness in a BIG way with Redmi Smart Band 2

 

Xiaomi released the brand-new Redmi Smart Band 2 this week. Achieving fitness in a BIG way, the brand-new smart band aims to keep users motivated and encouraged to stay fit and healthy. 

 

BIG Display, BIG Fun

Featuring the 1.47” vibrant TFT display, it offers a 10.5%^[1] larger viewing area, making it easier to read the information displayed on the screen. Whether you are checking your heart rate on the run or messages on the way to work, you can have everything under your view with the flick of your wrist. 

 

It also features more than 100+ band faces to match your mood and outfit of the day. Whether it’s a sports session or a romantic dinner, you have a range of stylish, cool and sleek band faces to choose from. 

Fitness in a BIG way 

Weighing at only 14.9 grams, it features an ultra-slim body at only 9.99mm, making it not just look good, but it feels good to wear on the wrist. Installed with over 30 fitness modes, such as outdoor running, yoga, and hiking, it can help you achieve your fitness goals easily. Exercise duration, calories burned and heart rate are clearly visible at a glance.

 

Fancy a swimming session? Fret not, Redmi Smart Band 2 features the 5ATM water resistance rating^[2] down to 50 meters, which means you do not need to take off your smart band in any wet environment. Its built-in high-precision PPG sensor is enabled to track your heart rate 24 hours a day. It even sends an alert when it detects an abnormal heart rate^[3] so that you can always stay on top of your health conditions. 

 

For health-conscious users, Redmi Smart Band 2 features the blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) level, which will show you the amount of oxygen in the blood. Not to forget it monitors your extended sleep quality as well as naps, and it provides detailed reports on your sleep patterns to help you understand your sleeping patterns and how to improve your sleep quality. 

 

For the convenience of our users, it is equipped with magnetic charging technology with 14 days of extra-long battery life^[4] on typical use. For heavy users, it can last more than 6 days. 

 

Pricing and Availability 

Redmi Smart Band 2 retails at only Php 1,499 and is available for purchase at Shopee and Lazada as well as Xiaomi Authorized stores, Xiaomi Official Store on Shopee and Lazada, and participating dealers across the country.

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^[1] The display of the Redmi Smart Band 2 is approximately 10.5% larger than the Xiaomi Smart Band 7. Dimensions measured without the heart rate sensor. Data obtained from Xiaomi Internal Labs.

^[2] 5ATM water resistance rating means you can wear the band in swimming pools, shallow waters and other sports in shallow waters, but not suitable for hot showers, saunas and diving, and should avoid high velocity water; water resistance is not permanent and may decrease over time.

^[3] This product is not designed as a medical device, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All data and measured values are for personal reference only.

^[4] Battery life data is based on Typical Usage mode and was obtained from Xiaomi Internal Labs. The actual results may vary. More information please refer to https://www.mi.com/global/product/redmi-smart-band-2/.