Metrobank waives InstaPay fees for transactions worth PHP1,000 and below until June 30, 2024

Christmas is right around the corner and what better way to celebrate it than by giving aguinaldo to your loved ones!

 

Sending aguinaldos to your inaanaks, or even giving daily allowance for the next school year is now lighter on your pocket as Metrobank waives InstaPay fees for transactions worth PHP1,000 and below until June 30, 2024. All you have to do is complete your transactions with the NEW Metrobank App.

There are two ways to enjoy this deal: 

Via Send Money feature:

 

1. Open the NEW Metrobank App and tap the Send Money icon in the bottom tab. 
2. Enter details such as the source account, transfer amount, recipient. Please note that PHP 1,000 and below transactions are eligible to avail of the waived InstaPay fee. 
3. Tap the ‘Immediate’ button. 
4. Enter Purpose. This is applicable for transfers to other banks as mandated by BSP.
5. Tap ‘Next’.
6. Review details, then tap ‘Confirm’. An OTP will be sent to your registered number. Do not share this to anyone. 
7. Input the OTP, and you’re done! You should see that the PHP 0.00 InstaPay fee is reflected in the transaction details page. 
   
   

You’ll also receive an SMS notification about your transaction. 

 

Via QR Code feature:

 

1. On the NEW Metrobank App’s dashboard, tap “QR” at the bottom navigation menu.
2. Scan or upload the QR code of your recipient.
3. After scanning the QR code, fill in the required details for your fund transfer. PHP 0.00 transfer fee should reflect in the confirmation page for transactions worth PHP 1,000 and below.     

Now, it really is Happy Holidays for you and your loved ones because Metrobank has made Instapay transfers worry-free with waived fees in the NEW Metrobank App.

 

To enjoy a smart, simple, and secure banking experience anytime, anywhere – make sure to download the NEW Metrobank App from the Apple App Store, Google Play, and the Huawei AppGallery.

OPPO is spreading cheers to its valued customers with the 12 Days of Christmas Promo

As the tradition of giving continues during this holiday season, OPPO, the leading global smart device brand, is spreading cheers to its valued customers all throughout the country with the 12 Days of Christmas Promo.

 

The 12 Days of Christmas Promo offers a variety of rewards to all onsite or walk-in OPPO users who have availed and completed screen and motherboard repair services in OPPO Service Center branches across the country from December 15 to December 30, 2023.

 

Candy giveaways and OPPO items such as notebooks and mouse pads will be given to onsite participants during the promo period, including in warranty and out of warranty customers.

 

To add excitement to the promo, all qualified OPPO users will automatically be included in the online e-roulette raffle draw which will be announced on January 5, 2024 through OPPO Care-PH Facebook page.

Ten (10) lucky winners who will have their phone repaired in any OPPO Service Center until December 30 will have a chance to win an exclusive gift pack which includes one (1) wired headphones, one (1) Ollie figurine, one (1) keychain and a neck pillow.

 

Winners will be notified via call and will be instructed to claim their items in their chosen 

OPPO Service Center branch for convenience.

 

The “12 Days of Christmas” Promo is part of OPPO’s way of encouraging its loyal fans to Enjoy the Present and celebrate this festive season by rewarding their loyalty and support.

 

Enjoy the Present with OPPO Philippines

Spread holiday cheer and enjoy exclusive promos when you purchase OPPO smartphones this Christmas. Make the most out of special discounts and freebies, exclusive benefits and gifts, and exciting festivities until January 7, 2024 for a merrier, more meaningful celebration.

 

To know more about OPPO’s 12 Days of Christmas Campaign, visit the official website https://www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

 

Xiaomi Unveils Unbeatable Tech Deals for the Perfect Christmas Gifts

 

The Xiaomi Holiday Sale is back this Yuletide season to spread holiday cheer! From December 1 to 31, 2023, you can get the best deals on Xiaomi’s top smartphones, tablets, and AIoT devices. Whether you want to treat yourself or your loved ones, you can find the best gadgets and gizmos at jaw-dropping discounts. 

 

No matter what you're looking for or how much you're willing to spend, the Xiaomi Holiday Sale has something for everyone. You’re sure to find the perfect gift for your go-getter partner, fitness-fanatic sibling, gaming enthusiast niece, or health-conscious parent.

To make things easy, you can just shop online on Xiaomi's official Lazada, Shopee, or TikTok pages. Or, if you want to see and try the products in person, you can visit any of Xiaomi's authorized stores and kiosks nationwide.

Xiaomi's Prime Holiday Selection

Here's a rundown of some of the products that are on sale during the Xiaomi Holiday Sale, along with their features and prices, to help you make a decision about what to buy:

The new Redmi 13C - Play like a pro with up to 256GB storage, MediaTek Helio G85 processor, and 50MP AI triple camera. Grab the 8GB+256GB variant for only PHP 6,499, or the 6GB+128GB variant for only PHP 5,499.

 

Xiaomi 13T Pro - Unleash your creativity and productivity with 12GB+512GB storage. Snatch this beast for only PHP 35,999, down from the regular price of PHP 37,999.

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G - Enjoy lightning-fast 5G connectivity, stunning photography, and a powerful processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Score this beauty for only PHP 19,999, down from PHP 21,000.

 

Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G - Enjoy fast and reliable 5G performance and capture every moment. Get the 8GB+256GB variant for only PHP 16,999, or the 8GB+128GB variant for only PHP 15,999, both down from their original prices.

 

Redmi Note 12 Pro - Do it all with smooth and versatile performance with 8GB+256GB storage. Available for only PHP 13,999, down from PHP 14,999.

 

Redmi Note 12 - A bestseller that never disappoints. Pick the 8GB+256GB variant for only PHP 9,999, the 8GB+128GB variant for only PHP 8,999, or the 6GB+128GB variant for only PHP 7,999, all down from their original prices.

 

Redmi Note 12S - Stand out with sleek and elegant design, with the performance to match. Take this phone for only PHP 10,999, down from PHP 12,999.

Redmi 12 - The budget phone that lets you get things done with more storage, more speed, and more fun. It has 8GB+256GB storage, MediaTek Helio G35 processor, and a 13MP AI dual camera – for only PHP 7,999, down from PHP 8,999.

 

Redmi 12C - This entry-level phone meets your needs with basic and essential features and functions. Own the 4GB+128GB variant for only PHP 5,499, the 4GB+64GB variant for only PHP 4,499, or the 3GB+32GB variant for only PHP 3,499, all down from their original prices.

 

Redmi A2+ - Keep going with simple and smooth performance and photography with 3GB+64GB storage. Claim this phone for only PHP 3,499, down from PHP 3,999.

 

Xiaomi Pad 6 - Do more with a large and vivid display, a fast and powerful performance, and a great camera with 8GB+256GB storage – for only PHP 21,999.

 

Redmi Pad - A mid-range tablet that can handle your daily tasks and entertainment. Get the 6GB+128GB variant for only PHP 14,999, or the 4GB+128GB variant for only PHP 13,999.

 

Redmi Pad SE - An 11-inch tablet powered great for watching movies, playing games, or just browsing the web. Catch the 8GB+256GB variant for only PHP 12,999, or the 4GB+128GB variant for only PHP 9,999.

 

Xiaomi Smart Band 8 - Stay healthy with a crystal-clear 1.62" AMOLED display, up to 16 days battery life with fast charging, and 30 sports modes. Snag this smart band for only PHP 1,999.

 

Your Ultimate Holiday Upgrade Awaits!

As a bonus, the promo also offers a 3-month VIU Premium subscription on all Xiaomi smartphone and tablet devices. Plus, you can also get limited-edition Xiaomi merchandise on selected smartphone models. 

 

Don't miss this once-in-a-year to treat yourself or your loved ones with the perfect gift this Christmas. To shop online, check out Xiaomi's official Lazada, Shopee, or TikTok pages. For more information, visit the Xiaomi website here.

Life Insurance: A Vital Safeguard for Every Filipino Family's Future

In the face of life's uncertainties, life insurance emerges as an essential shield for every Filipino family, ensuring a secure future and protecting the aspirations of generations to come.

Life insurance Annual Premium Equivalent (APE) sales during the initial half of 2023 surged by nearly 10%, showcasing a robust trajectory for the industry, which appears poised to surpass its pre-pandemic annual sales levels for the first time. APE represents the aggregate annual value of both single and recurring premium policies.

 

Traditionally reliant on in-person interactions for marketing, the life insurance sector faced substantial challenges during the pandemic. However, within the current economic landscape, Filipino households increasingly prioritize insurance as a protective measure for themselves and their families against unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, there's a growing inclination towards securing financial stability through various means, bolstering the demand for insurance products. 

There are five critical assets a person should consider to achieve financial security:

 

·      Emergency Funds: Emergency funds are savings for unanticipated expenses like medical incidents and house repairs. This fund would prevent someone from relying on high interest lenders when unexpected events occur.

 

·      Investments: Investing money in assets like real estate and stocks can grow wealth over time, providing investors with a financial cushion for long-term goals such as retirement. The underlying assumption here is that one’s income exceeds one’s expenses, thereby creating savings that can be channeled to investments.

 

·      Multiple Income Streams: Creating various revenue streams, such as side gigs and freelance work, can help boost financial stability. Besides lessening one’s susceptibility to volatility in the economy, additional income provides surplus earnings that can be used to increase savings and investments.

 

·      Insurance Coverage: Good insurance protection, which safeguards other insurance types, including health, life, and property, is a cushion against unforeseen economic fluctuations that can impact one’s investments. Life insurance in particular is seen to protect one’s potential future earnings in the unlikely event of premature death.

 

·      Financial Education: Through financial literacy, individuals can make well-informed decisions regarding investments, budgeting, and debt management. This development of financial resources contributes to long-term security.

 

Renato A. Vergel De Dios, an insurance industry expert and President and CEO of BDO Life Assurance Company (BDO Life), said it is now crucial for individuals to seriously consider insurance and start acquiring the four essential assets, given the robust financial performance of insurance providers.

 

“The industry’s growth directly translates into enhanced benefits and security for our valued policyholders, reinforcing our commitment to their financial well-being. Just as now is an opportune time to invest and acquire other personal assets, it is equally timely that our future income is preserved, in the event of untimely death, and its value passed on to our loved ones,” said Vergel De Dios.

 

He added that, “Only life insurance has the power to transfer future income otherwise foregone, to those who rely on us for financial support. This is the peace of mind that only life insurance can provide so that our loved ones need not worry should anything happen to their financial provider or breadwinner.”

 

Vergel De Dios further explained that securing oneself with life insurance and other assets ensures genuine financial security. The primary purpose of life insurance is to act as a safety net for losses due to death, illness, or disability. It is a viable financial Plan B when a person’s program of savings and investments, his Plan A, fails.

 

Learn more about how life insurance can protect you and your loved ones by visiting a nearby BDO branch and speaking with a BDO Life Financial Advisor or at www.bdo.com.ph/bdo-life.

Leyte MSMEs Thrive with the Negosyante Loan

The Negosyante Loan, crafted by BDO Network Bank, is tailored to assist entrepreneurs seeking additional funds for expansion, acquiring extra inventory or equipment, and establishing new outlets.

 

Numerous micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Leyte have experienced business expansion and market diversification, thanks to the financial backing provided by BDO Network Bank.

 

Carlo Romano, Chairman of Palo Livelihood Cooperative Center, revealed that cooperative members seized the opportunity offered by the Negosyante Loan from BDO Network Bank to augment their capital when their existing funds fell short.

 

"For instance, the producer of Moron and Binagol (rice-made desserts) took a loan from BDO Network Bank to add to their capital. Now, their business has a license to operate from the Food and Drugs Administration. It means their products are eligible for export. Even during the pandemic, their business is still thriving," explained Romano.

A member of Palo Cooperative Livelihood Center shared how BDO Network Bank empowered her to become an exporter of Moron and Binagol. (Photo courtesy of Palo LGU and Carlo Romano)

 

For her part, Zenaida Subang, a hardware and construction supply owner, admitted that the additional funds from BDO Network Bank helped her purchase materials in wholesale. Now, besides having many loyal customers, she has also provided employment to residents in her community.

 

BDO Network Bank designed the Negosyante Loan to support entrepreneurs who need extra funds to expand, purchase additional inventory or equipment, and open another outlet.

 

The loan amount ranges from PHP 30,000 to PHP 1 million, which can be repaid within one to three years.

 

For more information about BDO Network Bank's products and services, visit the nearest BDO Network Bank branch, check the BDO Network Bank website (https://www.bdonetworkbank.com.ph), or send a direct message to the BDO Network Bank Official Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/BDONetworkBankPH).

Empowering the QC Community: Learning Hub Provides Free Internet Access and Digital Tools

In line with its commitment to make digital services accessible for Filipinos and to help uplift lives across the country, PLDT Home, together with Zone V Camera Club and the Virlanie Foundation, launched The Learning Hub in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City. This initiative aims to empower Filipino students and their communities through reliable broadband internet connectivity, linking them with the rest of the world, and providing much-needed access to quality learning resources. 

PLDT and Smart Communications Director, President, and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio and Zone V Camera Club President Angela Panlilio with beneficiaries of the Virlanie Foundation

The Learning Hub seeks to provide Filipino children with a free-to-use learning space, powered by fast internet connection from PLDT Home and learning tools such as computers with digital applications. This initiative was likewise designed to unlock livelihood opportunities to benefit low-income families, while also offering communities with a safe entertainment hub.

The Learning Hub at Brgy. Bagong Silangan, Quezon City

 

“PLDT has long been committed to building a digitally-inclusive Philippines where communities are empowered through technology. Connectivity has become a human right, and we believe in the project’s goal of helping provide quality education to ensure that no learner is left behind,” said PLDT and Smart Communications Director, President, and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio. “We want kids in these communities to have access to the internet’s global databank and create a learning hub.”

 

"Witnessing the transformative impact that The Learning Hub will have on our beneficiary communities will be amazing. The potential for a graduating student to positively influence their family's life is profound, and we are honored to be part of such meaningful change,” said Angela Panlilio, President of the Zone V Camera Club which donated the gadgets for communities to use.

 

“The Learning Hub is a very helpful program, and it fits our foundation’s goals of providing quality education to children,” said Arlene Fernandez, Executive Director of Virlanie Foundation,  an organization that provides a safe space for children of abuse. 

 

The Learning Hub also aims to become a sustainable initiative, aligning the PLDT Group with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) by boosting the country’s overall digital inclusivity. It likewise supports PLDT and Smart's continuing contributions to the UN SDGs – particularly SDG 1: No Poverty and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – and reinforces the Group’s broader goal to promote technologies that foster educational and livelihood opportunities.

Porsche Design and HONOR Collaborate to Merge Cutting-Edge Technologies with Functional Design

Giant technology brand HONOR, and luxury lifestyle brand Porsche Design have announced a strategic partnership to create cutting-edge smart devices that combine exceptional design and advanced technology. The collaboration aims to deliver a range of high-end products, offering consumers a sophisticated and luxurious electronic experience that embodies the best of both brands. 

 

“HONOR’s human-centric design melds with Porsche Design’s brand philosophy to create intelligent luxury products that will accelerate the mobile lifestyle of tech enthusiasts and Porsche aficionados alike. This long-term collaboration between HONOR and Porsche Design opens exciting new opportunities to bolster our growth in markets around the world,” said George Zhao, Chief Executive Officer of HONOR. 

 

The excitement surrounding this limited-edition collaboration escalated with a teaser poster showcasing Professor Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, the original designer of the iconic Porsche 911, who also created the world’s first all-black wristwatch. The poster highlighted the goal of becoming a future classic, paying homage to Porsche's design legacy.

According to Stefan Buescher, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Lifestyle Group, the exclusive partnership with HONOR is a milestone for the further expansion of Porsche Design’s iconic electronics product portfolio as Porsche and HONOR share the same goal to become leaders in the modern luxury segment of smart devices. 

 

HONOR and Porsche Design will introduce their first jointly developed smart device in China in January 2024.

 

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/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

PLDT Global’s Special Christmas Display Lighting Ceremony at DMW

In a heartwarming event that marks the beginning of the festive season, PLDT Global Corporation (PGC), the international arm of the Philippines' leading telecommunications and digital services provider, PLDT, in collaboration with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), lights up the Christmas spirit with the unveiling of the TINBO Christmas display. This special event took place at the DMW Blas Ople Building, symbolizing a shared commitment to enrich the lives of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. 

The partnership between PLDT Global and DMW, signed last June 7, 2023, during National Migrant Workers Day, has seen PGC champion the one-stop digital gateway platform TINBO (Tindahan ni Bossing) to bolster the lives of OFWs by providing relevant digital products and services.

PLDT Global and the Department of Migrant Workers leaders illuminate the spirit of Christmas by unveiling the TINBO Christmas Display at the Blas Ople Building, a symbol of commitment to OFWs and their families. (L-R) Mr. Artemio Quiamas, PLDT Global VP Strategic Partnerships; Usec. Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones, DMW Undersecretary for Finance & Internal Affairs; Mr. Albert Villa-Real, President and CEO, PLDT Global; Usec. Bernard P. Olalia, DMW Undersecretary for Licensing & Adjudication Services; and Ms. Edith Gomez-Cudiamat, PLDT Global First Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

TINBO, accessible to Filipinos overseas through www.tinbo.ph, enables seamless transactions like sending load, paying Philippine bills, and purchasing e-gifts like Shopee, Lazada, mWell teleconsult, and Jollibee vouchers, as well as gaming PINs for their families in the Philippines.   

Through TINBO, Filipinos overseas can subscribe to a Smart Virtual Number or a SIM-less Philippine mobile number so they can receive one-time PINs (OTPs) to enable transactions on Maya and other digital bank apps or e-wallets in the Philippines. This is a testament to the PLDT Group’s commitment to creating relevant digital solutions that enhance the customer experience globally. 

The Christmas display lighting ceremony not only celebrates the season but also highlights the remarkable collective achievements of the PGC and DMW. Through their collaboration, free Wi-Fi has been installed at the Blas Ople Building lobby; upskilling certifications, learning gadgets, and farming grants have also been awarded to reintegrated overseas Filipinos and their families. On top of these, a registration booth has been set up at the DMW office to provide information support to TINBO registrants. PGC will also be supporting DMW’s social media etiquette training for OFWs.  

Speaking on the occasion, Albert Villa-Real, PLDT Global Corporation President and CEO and PLDT Enterprise Revenue Group Head, expressed, “This Christmas display is more than just a symbol for this holiday; it's a beacon of our commitment to OFWs. We strive to make their lives better every day, and this event is our shared vision for that pledge.”   

Usec. Bernard P. Olalia, DMW Undersecretary of Licensing and Adjudication Services also shared, “Our collaboration with PLDT Global has brought tangible benefits to our OFWs. This Christmas tree is a symbol of our continued commitment to their welfare and happiness.”   

The Christmas display, expected to draw a significant number of OFWs and their families, was graced by prominent officials from DMW and PLDT Global, reflecting the strong partnership between the two organizations.   

“With the continued support of the Department of Migrant Workers, PLDT Global has been able to reach more Filipinos and provide them with relevant tools that allow them to be digitally empowered at every phase of their global journey,” added Villa-Real.

Furthermore, Usec. Maria Anthonette Velasco-Allones, DMW Undersecretary for Finance & Internal Affairs said that she hopes the Christmas display will give a renewed sense of hope to Filipinos who visit the DMW office for their overseas employment transactions. Velasco-Allones said, “We hope that this Christmas display will give our countrymen a reason to smile even for just a moment so that they can be reminded that despite the challenges they face, there is always hope for a brighter future for them and their families.”

This Christmas tree lighting ceremony is not just an event but a reminder of the shared responsibility towards the welfare of OFWs. PLDT Global, through TINBO, continues to innovate and provide solutions that uplift and empower Filipinos worldwide. 

Unlocking Adventures: 5 Reasons Why the Maya Card Is Your Ultimate Travel Companion!

Explore your holiday destinations with the Maya Card, your ultimate travel companion that combines convenience, security, and rewards all in one. From booking flights, securing accommodations to indulging experiences, you can say goodbye to the hassles of multiple payment methods as this sleek card simplifies your travel payments while elevating your trip with unbeatable rewards, iron-clad security, and effortless style.  

 

As you gear up for your trip this holiday season, here are five reasons why you must bring your Maya card with you!  

1. Enjoy worldwide acceptance and ATM withdrawal.

When Maya says convenience, it means a hassle-free payment experience as you travel around the globe as you can use your Maya Card in over 130 million local and global merchant partners. What’s more, you can withdraw funds at any ATM machine so that you won’t run short of cash. 

 

2. No activation, no problem.  

Ever experienced the hassle of processing your payment card’s activation prior to traveling abroad? It’s a problem of the past with Maya Card, as you can instantly use it abroad without having to call customer support for activation. 
 

3. Get it for free! Plus enjoy exclusive perks & rewards while boosting your interest in Maya Savings.  

Get your first ever Maya Card and personalize it with your @username for free! All you need to do is open a savings account and deposit P250. By using your Maya Card for your travel expenses, you get up to boost your savings interest of up to 15% p.a. credited daily! Talk about saving while spending, no longer need to feel bad about rewarding yourself and splurging while you’re on a trip. Enjoy more rewards of up to P5,000 cashback for every P2,500 minimum spend and a raffle entry for a chance to win a brand new iPhone15. 

 

4. Track your travel expenses easily and in real-time.  

Rewarding yourself but still want to be the budget master of the trip? We get it, enjoying the trip and manually tracking your travel spendings on your phone doesn’t come hand in hand. This is a common struggle for today’s travelers, which Maya Card addresses by making tracking your travel expenses easy. With Maya Card, you can monitor all your spending in real time through the app, allowing you to have fun on your trip while staying within budget. 

 

5. Safe & secure.  

What’s a travel payment card without the assurance of safety and security? Certified and, thus, trusted, by card industry leaders Visa and BancNet, Maya Card is issued by Maya Philippines, Inc., a BSP-regulated financial institution. Aside from these credentials, Maya Card also presents tons of safety features, including anti-fraud technology, multi-factor authentication, and more.  

 

With Maya Card, you can travel in style without the worry of exhausting your savings. Enjoy the freedom to indulge and explore stunning destinations this holiday season and beyond, knowing that your spending is as boundless as your adventures. 

 

For more information about Maya, visit maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Stay updated on everything Maya by following @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.