Celebrate Happy Living’s 30th anniversary and join its upcoming wine festival

Join Happy Living as it celebrates its 30th anniversary with "A Continuing Journey Across the World's Most Famous Wine Regions and Wineries", a wine festival featuring over 150 celebrated wines, beers and spirits from all over the globe. This special event will take place on June 15, 2024, at The Tent at Enderun, McKinley Hill, Taguig. 

Tickets are now on sale on Happy Living website's Shop page. Interested participants who purchase their tickets until May 31, 2024 can take advantage of the early bird tickets priced at P1,500 each, while from June 1 to June 15, 2024, they can get tickets at their regular price of P2,500. 

Looking to master the art of tasting and understanding wine regions? Connoisseurs looking to take their craft a step further are in for a treat, as Happy Living’s wine festival also features a slew of masterclasses with partner brands Jackson Family Wines of Sta. Rosa, California; Lionel Osmin & Cie and Château Croix de Labrie of France, and Lolea Mediterranean Apéritif from  Spain 

Aside from tasting some of the world’s best wines and taking part in the masterclasses, wine festival participants also get the chance to bring home exciting raffle prizes, including special premium boxes of Loire Valley White Wines or the seductive Burgundy Experience set of reds, a complimentary overnight stay at Acro Residences, and even a European high-end designer chair from Edia. 

30 Years of Happy Living 

Since it was established in 1994, Happy Living has always remained true to its commitment to provide “what makes you happy”. It became the exclusive distributor of Beringer, its flagship brand, as well as French classic varietal pioneers de France and Robert Skalli, and prime Chilean wine Vina Valdivieso in the 2000s. Since then, it grew its extensive wine list to include the world’s most notable labels from the fine wine regions of Australia, Chile, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, and the United States. The business is also the trusted distributor of the country’s well-loved restaurants, hotels, malls, and other establishments. 

To provide the full experience to wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, Happy Living also set up its very own Tasting Room, tucked away in the middle of Chino Roces in Makati. The intimate and cozy space showcases Happy Living’s portfolio of celebrated Old World and New World wine labels, offered at friendly prices. Perfect for oenophiles seeking their next favorite wines as well as wine novices out to discover new experiences, the Tasting Room sets the perfect ambience for curated tastings and wine classes, as well as food and wine pairing sessions. 

 

Don’t miss Happy Living’s wine festival, pouring soon on June 15, 2024, at The Tent at Enderun. Get your tickets now to get early-bird rates via www.tinyurl.com/HLPC30TH-ANNIVTIX 

 

Pouring soon on June 15, 2024, at The Tent at Enderun, McKinley Hill, Taguig. Get your tickets now via the Happy Living website's Shop page.

Pokeverse Expo: Experience the ultimate fan gathering!

 

I can't contain my excitement as my favorite Pokémon is coming to Manila! Meeting the voice of Ash Ketchum and the singer of the iconic Pokémon theme song is a dream come true. Plus all things Pokemon!

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the Pokeverse Expo, the first of its kind, arrives in Manila. This unique event, in partnership with Hobby Stadium, Arken and more, promises to bring Pokémon fans together like never before. With a diverse range of activities, guests, and exhibits, the expo is set to be the ultimate celebration of the beloved Pokémon franchise.

Catch the Excitement – Special Ticket Offers!

Don't miss out on this unique fan experience! Secure your spot now and take advantage of our special offers, including up to 50% off for students. Grab your tickets along with exclusive family and 'barkada' deals, ensuring a fun-filled weekend for everyone at https://pokeverse.ph/. Follow our official Facebook fan page at https://www.facebook.com/PokeverseOfficial for the latest updates and exclusive content.

 

Kirck Allen, one of the lead producers of the Pokeverse Expo, shared his excitement: "We've had brilliant Pokémon-themed events in the country before, but Pokeverse is the first Pokémon-themed expo of its kind. It distinguishes itself from previous conventions and meet-ups by its unprecedented scale, design, and comprehensive offerings. We’re also thrilled to have Veronica Taylor, the beloved original voice actress of Ash Ketchum, and Jason Paige, the original singer of the Pokémon theme song "The Voice of a Generation as guests for our event—something that is a dream come true for most fans."

Veronica Taylor, the iconic voice of Ash Ketchum, shares her journey:

 

“I was working on another anime called Slayers in English, and it just happens that the people who cast me in that were doing the casting for Pokémon. So, I auditioned for it, and there were many callbacks, and I happened to get the role. Even when I got it, I wasn't sure if I was going to keep it, and it just kind of went on and on.

 

And I have to say, it's one of the most challenging and joyful roles I've ever had. I love playing Ash; he was this ten-year-old normal boy who's full of just courage and positivity. I think it changed my life because I think I took positivity for granted before this. But now I realized how important it is.

 

I mean, it changed my life. I get to travel now, Comic-Cons all over the world because people love, there's something about Pokémon that people just love and identify with, and luckily, I can kind of be the bridge between their childhood and their memories, and their now. And then, you know, I can show up and they can tell me all about when they were watching the show, and it's just a lovely exchange. It's such an honor to be a part of people's lives in this way.” Watch Veronica’s interview here : https://fb.watch/s9sMQIXEnq/

Jason Paige, the voice behind the unforgettable Pokémon theme song, reflects on his journey:

 

“Yeah. I, I can't wait to meet you all and sing for you all and catch the Pokémon love. I’ve been hearing good things about the Pokémon scene in the Philippines for many years now. So, it's a long time coming for me to get there and meet everyone.

 

Well, it's changed my life more specifically in 2016 when Pokémon Go came out. I popped out of the Pokéball and greeted the adults (who were still children when it first came out). The children that grew up on Pokémon didn't really know who sang the song. It wasn't important who sang the song; it was only important that the song moved them. It's like a great piece of art that you see on the wall. You don't think about who painted that piece of art, you just see the art and experience the art, and that's the beauty of it. So, these children then grow up and now as adults they realize somebody sang the song, and that was about in 2016 when they came of age and they started playing the song again on all these streaming services like Spotify and YouTube and Amazon music.

 

And then the media wanted to know who I was, and they looked me up because it's not obvious. Look on the inside of the 2B Master CD and the tiny little spread at the end of the lyrics, who I was. And that's when my life basically started being changed by the Pokémon love. It started being directed at me from the adults who lived wonderful childhoods inspired by Pokémon.” Invitation from Jason Paige himself on this like: https://www.facebook.com/reel/457311913503492

 

Get ready to be thrilled as Veronica Taylor, the beloved original voice actress of Ash Ketchum, and Jason Paige, the original singer of the Pokémon theme song "The Voice of a Generation," join us at the Pokeverse Expo. Their presence adds an extra layer of excitement to this already thrilling event, alongside our cherished celebrities Myrtle Sarrosa, Robi Domingo, and Tim Yap.

 

Save the dates from May 31 to June 2, 2024, as the Pokeverse Expo lands at SM Megamall, Megatrade Hall, for a three-day Pokémon-themed extravaganza. Secure your tickets now at https://pokeverse.ph/.

 

While Pokeverse maintains no official affiliation with The Pokémon Company and its subsidiaries, this event is made possible through partnerships with licensed Pokémon distributors in the country. This expo is co Presented by Philippine airlines along with major sponsors including leading hobby shops, Pokémon collectors, exhibitors, and sponsors such as Philippine Airlines, MINISO, Serenitea, The Manila Times, Business Insight, XOVOX Labs, DIY Bakery, Frigga Charmed Life, Kaloscope, and many more.

 

The Pokeverse team is excited to host this event with the support of some of the most respected individuals in the Pokémon community.

 

Soon Aik Ng, an avid Pokémon enthusiast with huge experiences dealing with the Pokémon franchise lends his expertise to ensure that our event provides the most authentic enjoyable experience for all participants. He has this to say:

 

"The Philippines is very fortunate to have organizers of Pokéverse, who have shown great enthusiasm for Pokémon, to bring the greatest and most authentic experience for all levels of Pokémon fans. I was touched by their burning passion, and I am more than happy to lend my experience with Pokémon to guide the organizers to brainstorm ways to bring positive energy and a sense of community to Pokémon fans at Pokéverse."

 

Likewise, Filip Monakil, a well-respected head judge for the Trading Card Game (TCG) and also with experience in dealing with the Pokémon franchise shares his thoughts:

 

“I’m very thankful to the organizers of Pokeverse. They have opened the door that would bring all the Pokémon fans together and experience a one-of-a-kind event. Fans from different generations will have a chance to share their love and passion for the franchise, as well as fulfill all their dreams of having an event like this in our country. I'm glad to be a part of this event as I get to share my love and passion towards Pokémon as well. So once again, to the organizers of Pokeverse, thank you for bringing in this kind of event and may you continue to inspire and set an example for future events like this. It’s great to be a Pokémon fan in 2024!”

 

Godfrey C. Murillo, known as "Pika Frey," a master collector and certified Pokémon Professor, shares his perspective:

 

"Pokeverse is a game-changer for Pokémon fans in the Philippines, especially collectors. It's the place where connections happen, and passions ignite. Going to Pokeverse isn't just about having fun; it's about reigniting that Pokémon spark, whether you're a seasoned collector or a fan coming back for more."

 

Pokeverse Advisors also include:

Devan Kyle Timbol, an avid Pokémon player and another master collector. Known for his charismatic personality, he has voiced for several TCG Championships around Asia as a caster. He will also come in as an official caster for the Pokeverse to give fans an exciting breakdown for the major competitions happening during the event.

 

Joshua Doctolero, a Pokémon TCG Master and 2 National Champion, known for his stellar history and expertise in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, now sharing his knowledge and wisdom in order to say what it takes to be the very best like no one ever was.

 

Kirck Allen, one of the lead producers of the Pokeverse Expo also adds, "From our innovative map and business model to our partnerships with official licensed distributors and the themed activities we have in store, we aim to produce an event like no other. Unlike typical conventions, which might focus on specific aspects like community, fan art, and cosplay, Pokeverse spans three days, encompassing these elements while capturing the childhood essence every Pokémon fan, from children to adults, is looking for."

 

"The event will feature a comprehensive museum with vintage Pokémon products, competitive competitions themed towards the Pokémon IP, and a line-up of local celebrities reigniting their passion and sharing their journey with the brand. Our goal is to create an inclusive environment where true Pokémon fans can fully immerse themselves in the world of their favorite brand in real life.

 

Join us at Pokeverse for a memorable weekend where you can meet your favorite Pokémon icons, participate in engaging activities, and celebrate your love for Pokémon with fellow enthusiasts. This event is a tribute to the nostalgic childhood memories of Pokémon, generously organized by the Philippine Feng Shui queen herself, Marites Allen, and her son Kirck Allen and the whole Pokeverse team.

 

Further studies online reveal that beyond video games, the Pokémon Trading Card Game has sold over 52.9 billion cards, solidifying its position as the best-selling trading card game of all time, surpassing even Yu-Gi-Oh! Additionally, the Pokémon anime series has amassed a massive following, with over 2 billion viewers across 183 countries. The film adaptations have also been incredibly successful, selling more than 190 million tickets and grossing over $1.8 billion at the worldwide box office. In fact, the Pokémon franchise's reach surpasses that of Harry Potter, Star Wars, Mickey Mouse, Marvel, Barbie and Mario combined. From video games and TV shows to trading cards and movies, Pokémon has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate fans across the globe.

 

Ticket Information:

 

The entrance fee is essential to cover the substantial costs associated with organizing the event, including venue rental, international headliner fees, flights, hotels, transport, setup, and logistics. The freebies, gifts, and opportunities that a ticket holder will receive during the expo will provide value that far exceeds the ticket cost. Additionally, the fee helps manage crowd control, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for families and children, who are a significant target audience of the event. Join us at Pokeverse and be part of this exciting event. For inquiries, contact hello@pokeverse.ph or call 0920 9281288 / 0925 1279023. Catch your tickets online at https://pokeverse.ph/.

 

 Choose kindness. Choose Pokeverse. Get your tickets now at https://pokeverse.ph/.

 

Metrobank Offers Exclusive Perks for Booklovers at Big Bad Wolf Book Sale 2024

 For book lovers, it’s always a good time for a new read — which is why Metrobank is empowering your passion with exclusive benefits at this year’s Big Bad Wolf Book Sale from May 24 to June 2, 2024 at Parqal Mall, Aseana City, Parañaque.

Valued Metrobank customers can enjoy the following perks at the Sale: 

1.     Exclusive pre-sale access on May 23 for Metrobank cardholders and Metrobank App users 

Get first dibs on your favorite books during the exclusive pre-sale day for Metrobank credit and debit cardholders and Metrobank App users on May 23. All you need to do is present your Metrobank credit card, debit card, or your Metrobank App at the entrance. Doors open at 9:00 AM. 

 

2.     0% installment on your book haul!

Enjoy flexibility when you pay for your latest book haul! Avail 0% installment for 3 months for a minimum single-receipt purchase of P3,000 with your Metrobank credit card.

3.     Easier checkout with Metrobank Exclusive Payment Lanes

Metrobank cardholders are entitled to dedicated payment lanes for an easier checkout experience. Just look for the Metrobank logo as you approach the counters.

With Metrobank, you can feel like a complete VIP with a great shopping experience at one of the world’s biggest book sales. The Big Bad Wolf Book Sale offers a diverse collection of over a million books, ranging from timeless classics to modern bestsellers across various genres, catering to readers of all ages and interests.

So make sure to drop by at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale 2024 at the 3^rd level of Parqal Mall from May 24 to June 2! exclusive Metrobank benefits.

With the Metrobank App, you can view your transactions, check your credit card balances and pay your bills safely and in real-time. Download the latest version via the App Store, Google Playstore or Huawei AppGallery to experience smart, simple and secure banking.

Follow our social channels to learn more:

Website: https://www.metrobank.com.ph/promos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetrobankCardPH/

Instagram: @metrobankcardph

Don’t have a Metrobank Credit card yet? No need to worry, because Metrobank will be accepting applications at a special booth located at the Sale. You may also visit https://apply.metrobank.com.ph/creditcard before the event to possibly enjoy the 

Smart and TNT Sweep Five Medals for Creative Excellence at the 16th Kidlat Awards

PLDT mobile services arm Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) and its value brand TNT bagged five metals at the recent Kidlat Awards 2024, which recognizes the country’s most creative advertising campaigns and the minds behind them.

 

TNT and its partner agency GIGIL clinched a gold award under Classic Creativity for its SIM Registration film and a silver award under Creativity in Engagement for the same campaign’s public relations execution.  

On the other hand, Smart and GIGIL won a bronze award under Creativity in Engagement for its epic Smart MOA Ball installation for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup. 

 

Meanwhile, TNT’s world record-setting PetmaloopChallenge with partner agency Ace Saatchi & Saatchi snagged two bronze awards for Creativity in Engagement – Influencer and Creative in Engagement - Brand Experience.

 

“We are honored by all these awards, which result from the creativity, hard work, and collaboration of our internal teams and agency partners,” said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Head of Prepaid at Smart.

 

“We dedicate these to all our customers, who always inspire us to come up with meaningful and creative ways to engage them powered by our superior mobile network," said Erika Apostol, Head of TNT.

 

The Kidlat Awards are the latest in several local and international recognitions Smart and TNT received for their memorable and viral campaigns.

 

Smart’s MOA Ball campaign, which transformed the iconic landmark into a giant basketball with a hoop, bagged a bronze award in the prestigious 2023 CLIO Sports Awards, which honors the best in sports advertising and marketing worldwide. It was also handpicked as Best Outdoor Ad by the global ad industry website, Bestads.

 

On the other hand, TNT’s SIM Registration campaign, which consists of a series of public service reminders encouraging subscribers to register their SIM, not only racked up millions of views and viral engagement, but also bagged awards at AdFest 2024, Boomerang 2023 Awards, and Korea’s MAD Stars 2023, among others.

 

Meanwhile, TNT’s Petmaloop Challenge set the Guinness World Record for the longest travel livestream, which lasted over 26 hours and covered 75 kilometers from Bustos, Bulacan to Rizal Park in Manila.

 

The Kidlat Awards is spearheaded by 4A’s Philippines, a non-stock, non-profit organization composed of various advertising agencies that aim to promote the development of the advertising agency business and industry in the country. #

UnlockProductivity with the Expansive Capabilities of the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro

Bring your ideas to life in vivid detail with its crystal-clear 12.4-inch display, six speakers, and seamless Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.

The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro is rapidly carving out a niche as an indispensable tool for professionals, thanks to its expansive screen and multitasking features that cater to a high-efficiency lifestyle. This tablet isn't just fulfilling expectations, it's creating new benchmarks for what a professional tablet should offer.

Symphony of Vision and Sound

 

Imagine a device that keeps up with your dynamic lifestyle and enhances it. The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro does just that with its 12.4-inch crystal-clear display that brings your ideas to life. With a display that showcases vibrant colors and true blacks, every presentation, movie, and game looks as good as it sounds. Whether you are planning your next big project, organizing your day, or doing post-production work, the sheer size and clarity of the screen provide plenty of space and inspiration.

 

The auditory experience is just as compelling. The tablet's six speakers produce a sound as rich and detailed in a professional setting as in the comfort of your home. The audio quality enhances every interaction, whether you’re participating in a virtual meeting or enjoying your favoritefilm.

 

Performance That Exceeds Expectations

 

The heart of the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro is its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, which delivers a seamless and efficient workflow. This powerhouse chipset ensures the tablet performs without a hitch, whether editing high-resolution videos or toggling between demanding applications. The advanced processor also means creative professionals can expect a device that keeps pace with their ideas and execution.

 

The touch interface of the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro is meticulously calibrated for precision, making it an ideal tool for professionals who value detail and accuracy. Every interaction is intuitive and responsive, ensuring that whether you’re annotating documents or crafting designs, the experience is as natural as it is precise.

 

When it’s time to power up, the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro’s 120W HyperCharge technology ensures you’re ready to go in no time. This rapid charging feature is more than just convenient; it’s a lifeline for professionals who can’t afford to be tethered to a charger, offering a quick boost to keep you productive throughout the day.

 

Pricing and Availability

 

The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro comes in two variants and is available in two color options, black and white. The premium 12+512GB model is set at Php 39,999, while the 8+256GB version is priced at Php 33,999. 

 

The Xiaomi Stylus and Xiaomi Keyboard are sold separately for Php 3,499 and Php 6,499, respectively.

 

A special promo awaits customers at authorized Xiaomi stores across the Philippines from May 10 to 19, 2024. Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro will be available with a Php 2,000 discount during this period. Moreover, the Xiaomi stylus will be available for Php2,449, while the Xiaomi keyboard will be available for Php4,549.

 

Home Credit offers 0% interest on the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro if you wish to buy on an installment basis. The 12+512GB variant can be had for as low as Php 2,549 per month for 12 months, while the 8+256GB version can be had for as low as Php 2,349 a month for 12 months.

Your New Favorite Workmate

The Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro doesn’t just keep up with your active lifestyle—it elevates it. It’s for the go-getters, the dreamers, the doers who demand excellence from their gadgets. With the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro, you can bring your best ideas to life wherever and whenever inspiration strikes.

 

For additional details on the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro, visit Xiaomi’s official website or connect with us on Facebook. Online purchases can be made through Xiaomi’s official stores on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop @XiaomiPhilippines.

 

PLDT Home enhances customer protection against cyberthreats by offering all Fiber subscribers two years of Kaspersky Premium Security

Numbers show that the more time spent online, the more one becomes vulnerable. Filipinos spend an average of nine hoursa day on the internet with 3.75 hours scrolling through social media. Every time someone is online, their information can be left exposed to cybercriminals bent on accessing and misusing data for their own gain.

 

According to a study, 3.4 billion phishing emails are sent daily (1 in every 4,200 emails is a phishing scam). In 2022 alone, there were 5.7 million reports of fraud and identity theft worldwide – with consumers losing $8.8 billion to identity theft.

Men on a mission (L-R): Questronix President Mike Dionisio, PLDT SVP and Head of Consumer Business Home, and Kaspersky Co-Founder and CEO

 

When people click on links – even those that seem legit, most especially when sent by friends – malware can find its way into their laptops and their information may be exploited. This can result in data breaches that compromise personal information, including usernames, passwords, bank accounts, medical records, and other sensitive data – further leading to identity theft, financial fraud, and other damages once malicious hackers take control over anyone’s accounts.

 

The PLDT Group doesn’t treat this as new information, in fact, it has been investing billions of pesos to safeguard its customers from cyberthreats. As a result, in 2023, the company prevented 478 million SMShing messages from reaching PLDT and Smart customers and blocked more than 28 billion attempts at accessing malicious domains.

This year, the Philippines’ leading digital services provider PLDT Home levels up its cybersecurity efforts as it partners with premier global cybersecurity company Kaspersky. Starting June 2024, PLDT Home will grant a complimentary 24-month Kaspersky Premium Security license good for three (3) personal devices per active Fiber subscriber.

“When cybercriminals attack individuals, the inconvenience, financial loss, and potential embarrassment can be endless. That is why we believe that cybersecurity education and protection should start at home,” said Jeremiah de la Cruz, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business - Home. “This partnership with Kaspersky allows our customers to gain another level of protection at home while enjoying the benefits of fast and reliable connectivity to enrich their lifestyle.”

Strengthened commitment to cybersecurity

Sixty-seven percent of Filipinos know about the importance of installing endpoint security apps, but only two out of every 10 Filipinos have one installed. Through this partnership with PLDT Home, customers will now have access to Kaspersky Premium Security, the brand’s “ultimate plan” – designed with award-winning antivirus, privacy and identity protection, performance boost, and other benefits such as unlimited VPN and password manager.

 

Kaspersky Premium Security employs a multilayered approach to cybersecurity, combining signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, behavioral monitoring, web protection, and automatic updates to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of malware threats, helping secure customers’ devices from cyber threats. In 2022, Kaspersky blocked 52,914 financial phishing incidents in the Philippines.

 

Kaspersky Premium Security also provides real-time protection while devices are connected to the internet 24/7. It scans all files that are opened, saved, or launched on the computer and all connected drives, as well as incoming and outgoing email messages. It also intercepts and blocks the execution of scripts on websites if they pose a threat; and monitors all web traffic and blocks access to dangerous websites. It also protects the customers’ data when connected to unsecured Wi-Fi networks. It also enables users to remotely manage their computer from the My Kaspersky website.

 

Eugene Kaspersky, CEO of Kaspersky added: “The Philippines has been one of the countries with the highest number of online attacks detected and blocked by our experts since 2021. Our partnership with PLDT Home is a new step toward the Philippines’ cybersecurity, combining the expertise of a trusted and leading digital provider with our experience and advanced security solutions. Together, we are committed to enhancing digital safety and helping Filipinos navigate the online world with confidence, bringing on a safer future for their homes."

 

With the availability of Kaspersky Premium Security to all Fiber customers, PLDT Home helps Filipino homes mitigate online risks and fight against cybercriminals while enjoying the online world. 

 

To know more about Kaspersky Premium Security available through PLDT Home, visit https://pldthome.com/.