Beat the Heat and Make Memorable Summer Moments with AirAsia Philippines

The average daily temperature of 35°C and Heat Index of up to 43°C across the Philippines, and its neighboring countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam didn’t  stop guests from getting into the travel vibe. .  

As of 8 April, more than 1.5 million AirAsia guests have already booked their seats for domestic and international summer travel. Most of the preferred destinations of choice include beach and island resorts, heritage and cultural destinations where travelers embrace  the warmth  of the sun.  

To help travelers make the most out of their trips, AirAsia Philippines is sharing some essential  travel hacks on how to beat the heat while making memorable summer moments: 1. Wear loose clothing that is made of lightweight materials to allow better air circulation around your body.

1. Avoid doing strenuous outdoor activities between 10AM to 4PM. If you are going on a walking tour, always bring protection such as sunblock, sunvisor, and umbrella.

2. Consider traveling at night to  enjoy the night markets and other attractions. 

3. Drink more water than usual.  Practice sustainable travel by bringing your own  water container. 

4. Be aware of the following symptoms of heat exhaustion: extreme fatigue

• dizziness and vomiting

• headache

• cold sweat; and

• rapid heart rate

5.  Travel insurance is always recommended which covers medical expenses.

“Everyone loves to have fun in the sun. Adequate planning will save you a lot of stress. To make lasting memories together with your loved ones, it is important to travel safely and responsibly. We know how much  travel means to you. Let us all take care and enjoy the best deals on flights and hotels via airasia Move. Any amount you save on your flights and hotels goes a long way to allow you to spend more at the destination, AirAsia Head of Communications and Public Affairs and First Officer Steve Dailisan shares.

Traveling responsibly is always a shared commitment among guests and airline staff, including  the cleanliness inside and outside the airport premises as well as the aircraft.

“Being a responsible tourist also includes  keeping the aircraft clean which  contributes to our commitment to delivering the best affordable and  on time air travel as it  saves extra time for any additional cleaning between flights”, Dailisan added.  

MAIN Advocates for Empowering Filipina Entrepreneurs through Advocacy

Navigating the capital-raising environment is especially challenging for women. But the investing community and the startup ecosystem can benefit from a two-pronged approach: advocacy and intentionality.

 

This was the statement of Tina Nepomuceno-Di Cicco, the Gender Lens Investing Committee Chairperson of Manila Angel Investors Network (MAIN), the Philippine’s largest network of angel investors, in the recently concluded FoundHer Forum, organized by a Filipino-based women-led inclusion studio, Imaginable Impact at KMC One Ayala in line with Women’s Month.

 

In her keynote speech, Di Cicco highlighted that advocating for and intentionally supporting women-led businesses will encourage more women to succeed and attract and grow investments.

 

“Through advocacy, we communicate our vision and goals, as well as promote and support each other’s businesses. Intentionality, on the other hand, is when we turn our advocacy into action–it's when we put our resources into investing in women and helping make women-led businesses succeed,” Di Cicco said, sharing tips on how women can appear more investible. 

 

In addition, she noted that while the gender gap remains a pressing issue with only 2% of global venture capital funds going to women-led businesses, investments on women entrepreneurs are in fact growing in Southeast Asia with data indicating that female-led startups raised $1.41 billion in equity funding in 2023, which accounts for 18 percent of capital raised in the region. This is a 12.6 percent increase from the previous year.

 

Di Cicco also pointed out that the current trend indicates that more investors and networks are using Gender Lens Investing when considering startups to invest in and support. Gender Lens Investing (GLI) is a strategy that MAIN employs, through the support of the Australian Aid’s Investing in Women program, to maximize investment potential in women-led businesses. Through the GLI, MAIN provides extensive support to women-led startups, especially those at the early stage, in terms of capital allocation, training, and mentorship. To date, more than 40% of the startups that MAIN members have invested in are female-led.

 

“We are hearing investors prioritizing portfolio diversity, with many incorporating gender lens investing strategies. What we see across the board is a slow but steady increase in gender lens investing,” Di Cicco said, underscoring investors’ intent to address gender disparity through their investment choices.

 

“This is the time for women founders. We are being sought. We are more visible. There is no better time to be a woman than now,” Di Cicco added.

 

The FoundHer Forum is a signature event series elevating the conversation on investing in female founders, to bridge the capital gap for women in the startup ecosystem. Aside from MAIN, FoundHer Forum was made possible in partnership with KMC Solutions, a leading provider of flexible office space requirements and co-working space for emerging businesses in the Philippines.

 

Aside from supporting women-led businesses, MAIN, composed of more than 120 angel investors, aims to increase the number of female investors in the Philippines by diversifying their own membership. MAIN is also a member of the Gender Lens & Impact Investment Council (GIIC), a member-based industry body that seeks to build the gender lens and impact investment ecosystem in the Philippines.

Introducing Frontline Express: Ruth Cabal Anchors TV5's New Afternoon Newscast for Concise, Comprehensive Updates

 Get ready for a swift dive into the latest headlines as TV5 emerges as your ultimate destination for quick news updates this summer. The Kapatid network proudly introduces esteemed journalist Ruth Cabal as the anchor of their new afternoon newscast, Frontline Express, a concise yet comprehensive 15-minute live news update that airs every Monday to Friday at 3:15 PM.

With a distinguished career marked by widespread acclaim, Ruth Cabal stands as a stalwart figure in the world of journalism. Her previous endeavors include anchoring CNN Philippines’ daily Filipino newscast, Newsroom Ngayon, producing numerous audio-video packages and live reports. She also served as a trusted broadcasting part-time lecturer at a state university. Her fearless pursuit of truth and dedication to quality reporting have earned her respect and admiration from peers and viewers alike.

 

Renowned for her incisive reporting and insightful commentary, Ruth Cabal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as the newest anchor of Frontline Express. Her addition to the program not only strengthens TV5’s commitment to delivering accurate and engaging news but also symbolizes a full-circle moment as Ruth returns to her roots, having started her career with TV5, then ABC 5.

 

Frontline Express is designed to provide audiences with a quick and reliable source of information, allowing viewers to stay informed without the disruption of their daily routines. With Ruth Cabal at the helm, this marks another significant milestone for TV5 in strengthening the network’s news and information arm, News5. Ruth’s extensive experience as a seasoned and well-rounded journalist ensures that viewers will receive top-notch reporting and analysis.

 

Tune in for a dynamic and insightful 15-minute live news update with one of the country’s most reputable journalists. Don't miss Ruth Cabal as she navigates through the headlines on Frontline Express every Monday to Friday at 3:15PM, and soon in more of TV5’s news and current affair programs.

Xiaomi Fan Festival Sale is a treat to Xiaomi Fans

The month-long Xiaomi Fan Festival 2024 Sale has kicked off Xiaomi’s 14th anniversary celebration in an iconic way. Apart from fan-favorite smartphones, the sale also includes the best deals on Xiaomi AIoT products, available exclusively online until April 30, 2024.

The Xiaomi Fan Festival is the brand’s way of showing its gratitude for the fans’ unwavering support for its products. The month-long sale marks #OurIconicMoment in making technology more accessible to Filipinos. 

With up to 58% off on select Xiaomi AIoT products, from wearables to appliances, fans can unlock their iconic moments by upgrading their space with innovative technology that improves your lifestyle.

On-the-go companions

Whether you’re listening to music or tracking your steps, Xiaomi makes sure that you have access even while you’re on the go. Redmi Buds 4 Pro offers Hi-Fi sound quality and noise-canceling features for an immersive listening experience. 

For fitness enthusiasts, the Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro supports 110+ sports modes and can monitor your SpO2, heart rate, and sleep. You can also customize it with colorful straps. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi Watch S1 Active makes your fitness journey more stylish with its exquisite metal bezel frame, and customizable watch faces and straps. It supports 117+ sports modes, does advanced health monitoring, and even allows Mastercard cashless payments.

All AIoT wearables are compatible with Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones, making it easy to access your go-to apps.

● Redmi Buds 4 Pro: Get P400 off. Starts at P3,599.

● Xiaomi Smart Band 7 Pro: Get P1,600 off. Starts at P2,999.

● Xiaomi Watch S1 Active: P3,999 (from P8,999)

● Xiaomi Smart Band 8: P1,999 (from P2,099)

● Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Active: P1,049 (from P1,189)

● Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro: P3,399 (from P3,699)

● Xiaomi Watch 2: P9,199 (from P9,699)

● Xiaomi Watch S3: P6,499 (from P6,999)

A smarter & fulfilling home life

Xiaomi’s AIoT appliances are meant to make your home life more comfortable. The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 and Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite, for example, can help filter out dust, pollen, and disease-causing microorganisms, making your home’s air quality cleaner and healthier. These can be controlled with the Mi Home mobile app, so it’s more convenient to personalize your settings and check your device’s status wherever you are. For the foodies, you can also whip up delicious meals with the Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L, which lets you cook food quickly and with less oil.

Lastly, the Xiaomi TV A Pro 65 upgrades your viewing experience with its 4K UHD display and Dolby Audio sound quality. The device also has Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube pre-installed so that you can access your favorite shows and movies with just a few clicks on the remote.

● Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4: Get P1,000 off P8,999.

● Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite: Get P1,000 off. Starts at P6,999.

● Mi Smart Air Fryer 3.5L: Get P1,000 off. Starts at P2,699.

● Xiaomi TV A Pro 65: P31,190 (from P32,490)

● Xiaomi TV A Pro 55: P22,190 (from P22,990)

● Xiaomi TV A Pro 50: P20,290 (from P20,990)

● Xiaomi TV A Pro 43: P16,490 (from P16,990)

● Xiaomi TV A Pro 32: P8,490 (from P8,990)

● Xiaomi Smart Camera C400: P1,799 (from P2,999)

● Xiaomi Outdoor Camera AW300: P2,199

The Xiaomi Fan Festival 2024 Sale is running until April 30, 2024. All Xiaomi AIoT products are available exclusively online via Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok. Xiaomi and Redmi phones, including the special edition Xiaomi Fan Festival Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G, are also available online and in authorized Xiaomi stores.

For more information, visit the Xiaomi Fan Festival 2024 Sale microsite.

Metrobank: Top Choice for Retail Banking in the Philippines, as Recognized by The Asian Banker

 

Metrobank is hailed as the Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines by The Asian Banker in the publication’s recently held Global Excellence in Retail Finance Awards. 

 

The recognition was given based on the results of The Asian Banker’s Annual BankQuality™ Consumer Survey, which gathered feedback from over 12,000 customers across Asia in January 2024. The survey measured the participants’ engagement, and satisfaction with retail financial services institutions based on their experience with services, channels and products. 

According to The Asian Banker, Metrobank has earned a strong reputation among its clients for its trusted financial services, and hassle-free banking experience. These served as the main drivers for Metrobank’s BankQuality score of 101.48 - the highest among the participating banks in the Philippines, and the 6thamong the banks in Asia. 

This positive feedback among the Bank’s clients is supported by a study conducted by NielsenIQ in 2023*, where Metrobank emerged as one of the Top Recommended Banks in the Philippines. About a thousand respondents were asked how likely they would recommend each bank cited in the survey to their peers. According to the results, Metrobank edged out all the other local major banks, and has held this position since 2022.

For Metrobank, these recognitions serve as a strong vote of confidence that the Bank is on the right track in fulfilling its promise to clients as their trusted financial partner in every life stage. 

Metrobank constantly aims to provide clients with reliable and relevant banking services to help them achieve their goals – whether the client is an individual growing his savings, an aspiring entrepreneur starting a new business venture, or an established individual looking to manage the growth and distribution of their wealth.

“For decades, fulfilling our promise of keeping Filipinos in good hands has been Metrobank’s north star. Every product and service we have, was developed to address our clients’ needs. We are strongly committed to help Filipinos achieve their dreams, and foster growth in the communities we are a part of,” said Digs Dimagiba, Metrobank’s Chief Marketing Officer. 

 

“This mission is what fuels our drive to deliver an exceptional brand of service, and we are grateful that this is being recognized both by clients across the country, and by global banking experts such as The Asian Banker. Metrobank is the Most Recommended Retail Bank in the Philippines, because each Metrobanker is dedicated to helping our clients, and our communities grow,” he added.

 

Celebrating partnerships that lead to growth 

As Metrobank celebrates meaningful partnerships with clients through these awards, the Bank also reaffirms its commitment to become its clients’ partner in success with the launch of a new film, entitled “Grow with Metrobank.” 

The film represents the millions of Filipinos whose journey to growth and success was aided by the Bank, in the past 60 years. These stories are seen through the eyes of mother-and-son bakers Gigi and Andy who are successful Metrobank clients. 

There is the character of Mrs. Bueno, a pharmacist, who is celebrating because Metrobank approved her business loan. Then, there is Charlie, who owns a chain of computer repair shops that have been modernized to allow cashless payments. And of course, single delivery van owner Ben, who now owns a new fleet of delivery vehicles, thanks to Metrobank. Finally, Sharon, a Relationship Manager from Metrobank, visits the bakeshop of Gigi and Andy to discuss potential investment opportunities for their family. 

By the end of the film, Metrobank underscores its belief that ‘where communities grow, we all grow.’

Watch the film here.

For over 60 years, Metrobank has been keeping Filipinos in good hands. Leading international financial institutions and publications including Asian Banker, Euromoney, and AsiaMoney have recognized the bank over the years for its strength and reliability for customers, businesses, and entire communities. 

Discover how Metrobank can cultivate success and growth in a community, making every step of your financial journey meaningful and rewarding. Check out our website at http://www.ingoodhands.com.ph or visit your nearest Metrobank branch to learn more.

Smart partners with Lionsgate Play: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Binge-Watch Deal for Subscribers

 Premium streaming platform Lionsgate Play has announced its groundbreaking partnership with mobile services provider Smart Communications,

Inc. (Smart) aimed at redefining the landscape of digital entertainment for Filipinos. Starting today, April 5, all Smart Prepaid and Smart Postpaid subscribers may enjoy the long weekend or escape to entertaining streaming breaks with affordable premium streaming subscriptions as they dive into Lionsgate Play’s expansive library of blockbuster franchises and innovative original series. Whether they’re movie enthusiasts or binge-watchers, Smart customers can take advantage of the best rates to access Lionsgate Play’s curated library.

Since it entered the Philippine market in June 2022, Lionsgate Play has been making waves with its entertainment offerings that lean toward the provocative, thrilling, and edgy. The official streaming platform of the renowned Hollywood studio Lionsgate, the platform offers blockbuster franchises (John Wick, The Hunger Games, Twilight, Step- Up, and Saw); award-winning Lionsgate feature films (La La Land and Wonder); original series that cut across multiple genres (Power, Gaslit, Party Down, The Serpent Queen, Ramy and Minx), and more.

Pocket-friendly prices for world-class entertainment 

“Our partnership with Smart is an integral part of our continued expansion efforts across Southeast Asia,” says Rohit Jain, President of Lionsgate Play Asia. “This collaboration aligns with our vision to distribute our content more broadly and to diversify our subscriber base, enabling audiences to ‘play more, browse less.’ We’re committed to strategic partnerships, and Smart is the perfect partner to help us achieve that goal.”

“This collaboration with Lionsgate Play solidifies our commitment to delivering the widest breadth of world-class entertainment to the fingertips of Filipinos. Through this partnership, we reinforce our mission to ensure that every Smart user has more options to enjoy the content they want to consume,” says Alex O. Caeg, Head of Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

“Powered by Smart, our customers can enjoy seamless streaming of their favorite movies and access their beloved series from Lionsgate Play’s phenomenal library. Whether at home or on the go, they have the option to indulge in uninterrupted entertainment and immerse themselves in top-notch streaming at their convenience,” adds Kristine A. Go, SVP for Consumer Wireless Business at Smart.

Smart subscribers will be able to enjoy these cinematic offerings at incredibly affordable rates. An LGP subscription is priced at just PHP 99/month for Smart subscribers, compared to the standard rate of PHP 129/month. Smart will also be rolling out an extra affordable 7-day subscription for a mere PHP 39, making LGP's exceptional entertainment available to everyone.

“We are beyond excited about this partnership,” says Lionsgate Play Philippines General Manager, Cecille Marino. "This collaboration will enable us to extend our reach, bringing our impressive library of original series and blockbuster franchises — like Normal People, Killing Eve, John Wick, and Saw — to a wider Filipino audience."

Check out Watsons’ April Great Hair Sale with up to 50% off and Buy 1!

Get ready for the April 11-15 Watsons Great Hair Sale to rejuvenate your hair and boost your confidence with fabulous hair days. Enjoy up to 50% off on hair essentials and Buy 1, Take 1 deals on selected items! Enjoy great savings on hair essentials.

 

But wait, there's more! Unlock exclusive discounts as a Watsons Club member!

Experience the ultimate hair pampering with deals like Buy 1, Take 1 promotions on Garnier Color Naturals Long Lasting Hair Color - 7.3 Golden Brown, Dove 1 Minute Serum Keratin Repair Conditioner, and Pantene 3-Minute Miracle Keratin Straight Intensive Conditioner. Buy 1, Get the 2nd at 50% off offers on Tresemme Shampoo Color Radiance and Tresemme Serum Conditioner Color Radiance. For those seeking vibrant locks, seize the opportunity with Don't miss out on these rare offers to replenish and stock up on your hair care goodies. 

 

Discover special deals on Watsons' most sought-after hair products, including L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Color 5 Light Brown, L’Oreal Everpure Brass Toning Purple Shampoo (Sulfate-Free), Zenutrients Gugo Strengthening Conditioner, and Creamsilk Treatment Keratin Damage Repair.

 

So what are you waiting for? Load up your Watsons App carts now and mark your calendars for the April Great Hair Sale, or visit your nearest Watsons store during the nationwide 5-Day Sale event. 

 

As a bonus, enjoy P100 off when you download the Watsons app through this link: http://bit.ly/WatsonsMobileApp. Terms and conditions apply.

 

With over 1000 Watsons stores nationwide, your hair care haven is always within reach. Opt for convenient Click & Collect to pick up your orders in 30 minutes or less, or choose Express Delivery* to have your products delivered within 3 hours (available in select cities only). Plus, enjoy a capped delivery fee of P50 or free delivery for a minimum spend of P500. Keep an eye out for your order confirmation from the app and via SMS to track your delivery status.

 

Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your hair game this April with Watsons' Great Hair Sale! Learn more about Click & Collect and Watsons Express Delivery by visiting www.watsons.com.ph/shipping-delivery.

 

TechLife x realme: Elevating Your Summer Hideout Experience at Clark Aurora Music Festival

Enjoy a music-filled weekend with the TechLife Fam at the Clark Aurora Music Festival this coming April 6-7. TechLife partnered with smartphone brand realme to bring the fun to the Summer Hideout through different activities, games, and mini programs. 

Celebrate Filipino music by singing along the popular hits of Adie, Juan Karlos, and SB19 among others on April 6. The TechLife fam can also jam to the all-time favorite OPM bands as Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, and artist Rico Blanco on April 7.

Aside from enjoying the Summer Hideout, the TechLife Fam is also in for more treats to make the weekend truly memorable.

Visit the TechLife x realme booth to join activities and win amazing prizes

The TechLife Fam can register at the booth to get an event activity passport for free, finish up all lined up activities and get instant freebies! On top of this, there will also be prizes that they can win when in the games prepared by TechLife.

To make the weekend more fun, the TechLife Fam can purchase devices at a discounted price. There will be an experience area at the booth where fans can try out the devices before purchasing. Expect big savings on TechLife 12W Charger and TechLife Buds Classic 2 as well as some realme smartphones such as the all-new realme 12+ 5G and crowd-favorite realme C67.

Exclusive Meet-and-Greets with TechLife and realme personalities

Drop by the booth to get a chance to meet a few gaming personalities like OSX and Odin on April 6. On the same day, TechLife ambassadors CK De Leon and Mikee Reyes will also be in attendance for a quick chat with the TechLife Fam. Meanwhile on April 7, realme esports ambassador AP Bren will be at the TechLife x realme booth as well for a Meet and Greet with fans.

Get the chance to win tickets to Clark Aurora Music Festival 

Missed the chance to get tickets to the Clark Aurora Music Festival? Worry not because TechLife is holding a giveaway of SVIP and Gold tickets worth up to P3,000. For complete mechanics, check out the giveaway announcement on the TechLife Facebook page. Winners will be announced on April 5 at 12PM (PHT).

 

For more updates on TechLife x realme Clark Aurora Music Festival Summer Hideout, follow the TechLife official Facebook page.

 

Why Professional Family Portraits Matter for Filipinos

In today's digital age, where snapping photos with smartphones has become the norm, there remains a timeless allure to capturing the essence of family love and connection in a professional studio setting. While smartphone snapshots are perfect for everyday moments, there's something special about preparing for a portrait shoot with your family. It's an opportunity to step into an environment where every detail is carefully crafted to immortalize the bonds you share. 

For Filipinos, family is at the core of their culture, and preserving memories through professionally captured portraits holds significant importance. Great Image, a renowned name in the photography industry, delves into why it's still crucial for Filipinos to have their family portraits professionally taken and the enduring benefits it brings. 

A way to honor family traditions 

Family reunions and celebrations are treasured customs in Filipino culture that have deep historical roots. From birthdays to reunions, these events provide opportunity for families to get together and deepen relationships. Professional family photographs taken during these gatherings honor these traditions by capturing the essence of familial love and unity for future generations. 

Celebrating milestones and achievements 

Filipinos love celebrations and they take pride in commemorating milestones and achievements, whether it's a graduation, a wedding, or a new addition to the family. Professional family portraits serve as visual commemorations of these significant moments, marking milestones in the family's journey. These portraits not only capture the joy and pride of the moment but also serve as reminders of the family's resilience and triumphs. 

Documenting family legacies 

It is important for Filipinos to pass down traditions from one generation to the next. These family portraits serve not only as a way to capture memories, but it also serves as a tangible record of family legacies and histories. Professional family portraits become treasured heirlooms, preserving memories of ancestors, and loved ones for future generations to cherish and reflect upon. 

A testament of embracing Filipino values 

Professional family portraits serve as visual representations of Filipino cultural values, including close-knit family ties, respect for elders, and love for one's heritage. These portraits capture the warmth and unity shared among family members, honoring the wisdom of elders and celebrating Filipino identity and heritage. Through these images, families feel a sense of pride, belonging, and unity, reinforcing the cultural values that define Filipino society. 

Capturing timeless memories 

While smartphone photos may capture fleeting moments, professional family portraits have a timeless quality that transcends trends and fads. Photographers skilled in their craft can capture the essence of each family member, freezing moments of joy, love, and connection in beautifully composed images. These portraits become cherished mementos, evoking emotions and memories that endure through the years. 

“Professional family portraits serve as more than just images; they are reflections of cherished traditions, celebrations of milestones, and legacies of love and resilience. By investing in professional family portraits, we can preserve our family bonds and create lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come,” Ms. Evelyn Palomo, Chief Executive Officer at Great Image.  

Fortunately, Great Image is here to assist Filipinos in immortalizing their family memories, capturing the essence of cherished traditions and values. Established in 1983, Great Image has been providing excellent, professional, and reliably fast and creative photography services for 40 years.  

Equipped with the latest photo equipment in the photography imaging industry, along with skilled photographers who are at the top of their field and proficient in the latest industry standards, Great Image ensures that every shot reflects the love, joy, and connection shared among family members. Whether it's multigenerational portraits or milestone celebrations, Great Image guarantees timeless images captured with love. 

But that's not all! Great Image presents some of the greatest deals in town. Avail the Collection of Love promo and receive five 5R frames for free with every purchase of five pieces of prints and soft copies. And don't miss out on the all-new Great Image Gratitude Card. Sign up for only PhP999 and unlock exclusive perks and freebies with every session. To even get the best out of your shoot, use this code GI3RPR to get a FREE 3R Print Copy in all Great Image branches nationwide. 

To explore more about Great Image and their photography services, visit their website at www.greatimage.com.ph or connect with them on their Facebook and Instagram pages.