THE SCRIPT is coming back to Manila and bringing their SATELLITES WORLD TOUR on February 11, 2025!

 With over 10 billion streams, 12 million album sales, six UK #1 albums and two Platinum-certified US singles, the multi-awarded and platinum-selling Irish band, THE SCRIPT is coming back to Manila and bringing their SATELLITES WORLD TOUR on February 11, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum. Presented by Midas Promotions and Wilbros Live. Tickets go on-sale on August 10, 10AM via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. 

After reuniting for select shows with The Script family in 2023, the band is ready to hit the road and head out to big stages of their own. This will see them play to over 2 million fans around the world this year and more next year. The Script will be performing their biggest hits and fan favourites from their six studio albums like “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved”, “Breakeven”, “For The First Time”, “Hall of Fame”, “Superheroes”, and songs from their highly anticipated new album ‘Satellites’ featuring the new hit song “Both Ways”.

 

Glen Power says, “.. we’re The Script, and now we have something to prove: that there is life and light after the darkness.” Vowing to pay tribute to their friend (Mark Sheehan) by continuing the band they had built together, vocalist Danny O’Donoghue returned to the studio and experimented in a number of ways. What emerged is ‘Satellites’, an utterly uplifting collection of songs that forges a new future for The Script while remembering that although Mark may no longer be here, he remains a vital part of everything that they do.

 

Danny explains, “The album cover is silhouettes of me, Glen and Ben Sargeant, our bassist.. Then we have a hooded silhouette, because the air of Mark is still there. He always will be, but it's also giving a tip of the hat to the future. It'll never be the same Script. We're just trying to get on and do what it is that we all feel is the next right thing to do and that’s to keep making more great music.”

PLDT Home's Reliable Fiber Connection Transforms Bantayan Island, Enhancing Quality of Life and Economic Growth

 Bantayan Island, a pristine gem in the Visayas, has transformed from a tranquil escape into a thriving hub attracting tourists, remote workers, and digital nomads alike, providing a perfect blend of productivity and relaxation.

Internet connectivity has been pivotal to this development in Bantayan Island. Now powered by PLDT Home’s most reliable fiber connection, Bantayan Island is primed to further enhance the quality of life of its locals and boost its economic growth. Fast and stable internet connection enable businesses in the Island to operate efficiently, empower residents to access essential online services, and allow visitors to enjoy seamless work and leisure experiences.

Living the Dream: Tourism and Micro-EntrepreneursThriving in Bantayan

Bantayan’s pristine beaches, rich culture, and warm hospitality have always drawn tourists. Now, with PLDT Home’s high-speed internet, the island is an ideal destination for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a blend of productivity and relaxation. The stunning natural beauty, combined with reliable connectivity, creates a perfect environment for inspiration and work.

Madelle Tibay, Manager of Myrna’s Pension House (left) and Belvin Fariolen (right), a home-based mom-preneur in Bantayan Island 

“Internet is one of the necessities of our tourists. Before they book, they ask if the area has a good internet connection. Here at Myrna’s Pension House, we have two [fiber plan] accounts with PLDT Home. For as long as tourism is booming here, I can say that I’m stable here,” says Madelle Tibay, a Pension House Manager in Bantayan Island. 

For home-based entrepreneur and virtual assistant BelvicFariolen, a reliable home internet helps their family thrive in the Island. She’s grateful for having access to digital opportunitiesso that she can work and earn from home while also being a full-time mom.“My home business is online selling of bags, perfumes, and clothes. I’m also a virtual assistant. I like the work set up I have now because I’m just at home and I don’t have to spend a lot. The most important thing is that I can also focus on my children.”

Enhancing Island Life

Beyond economic advantages, PLDT Home’s connectivity empowers the local community, significantly enhancing life in three (3) municipalities of the island: Bantayan, Madridejos, and Santa Fe. Residents now have better access to online education, healthcare services, and government programs. This digital transformation has improved the overall well-being of the island’s population, ensuring that everyone can thrive in this connected environment.

Madridejos Vice Mayor Vincent Y. Villacrusis welcomes PLDT Home representatives 

during a courtesy visit in Bantayan Island

Madridejos Vice Mayor Vincent Y. Villacrucis enthusiastically supports PLDT Home’s initiatives for Bantayan Island’s digital transformation. “Thank you for providing fast internet solutionsin our province and providing a grassroot program through volleyball.” 

 

PLDT High Speed Hitters Shiela Kiseo, Mika Reyes, and Iza Viray graced PLDT Home’s Beach Volleyball Clinic in Bantayan Island

Bantayan Island represented Cebu Province, winning bronze at the Palarong Pambansa, a highly anticipated national sports event. To also support Cebu’s initiatives to encourage tourism through sports development in the province, PLDT Home brought PLDT High Speed Hitters Mika Reyes, Iza Viray, and Cebu’s very own Shiela Kiseo for an afternoon of Beach Volleyball Clinic at Santa Fe, Bantayan Island. 

As Bantayan Island continues to become more popular as a tourist destination, PLDT Home provides the digital infrastructure needed for its growth. By connecting and empowering more communities, PLDT Home is here with every Filipino family inmaking life better at home.

Know more about how PLDT Home is enhancing the island life in Bantayan, watch this video.

Get Your Zing On and Swing by the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel

Hey friends! Ready to ditch the daily grind and dive into an experience that’ll totally boost your mood? Swing by the Del Monte Fruity Zing Tunnel at C1 Park, Bonifacio High Street Central (right in front of Shake Shack) from August 2-4, 2024, 2-10 PM. This is the ultimate escape from life's little annoyances—whether it’s being ghosted by your crush, dealing with office drama, or facing that cringe-worthy credit card bill. 

Here’s What’s Poppin’ Inside the Tunnel:

Refresh-Zing Area: Kick off with FREE ice-cold samples of Fruity Zing’s bomb Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors. Perfect for a sweet pick-me-up or a zesty burst!

Zing Zone: Dive into epic games and interactive experiences that’ll lift your vibe. Show off your zest at the Just Zing corner—say “Ziiiing” in 25 seconds and win free Fruity Zing bottles! Plus, flex those memory skills at the MemoriZing activity to score more Fruity Zing freebies!

Gen Zing Photo Booth: Capture your refreshed and ZING-ed self with a free printed photo and share your Zing-tastic moments!

Cool Vibes: Chill out with strategically placed fans and misters keeping things cool and comfy while you explore.

Fruity Zing: Not just a drink, it’s your go-to mood booster! With real fruit juices and only PHP 25 SRP, enjoy the epic Apple-Lychee and Calamansi-Lemon flavors that keep you fresh and motivated to crush your goals. 

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Share your adventure on social media with #FruityZing and #ExperienZINGnow to spread the good vibes. If you can’t make it, catch us next at Hydro Manila on August 24, 2024! 

Find the Del Monte Fruity Zing at nearby convenience stores and supermarkets! No time to shop? No problem—grab it online on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop! Ditch the boring and level up your vibe with Del Monte Fruity Zing!

AirAsia is expanding in Japan by introducing Nagoya

*More than 3,000 seats to Nagoya on sale from only PHP888 one-way base fare! 

© NAGOYA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

AirAsia Philippines is further expanding in  Japan  by introducing Nagoya as its 3rd destination. One of the  largest cities in Japan, Nagoya is home to over two  million residents, 57,000 of which are Filipinos. 

To celebrate this milestone, the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline is offering a PHP 888 one-way base fare to Nagoya for bookings made at the AirAsia MOVE app and airasia.com until 11 August 2024 for travel from its maiden flight on 29 October 2024 to 29 March 2025.

“Japan is one of the strongest regional markets for  AirAsia Philippines. In fact, we’ve already flown 210,000 guests for the first half of 2024. We are confident we will double the 270,000 guests flown in 2023 with our competitive airfares, more services, better flight timings and world leading  service”, AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla shares.

A recent study from Statista revealed that 48.8% of Filipinos choose  Japan as a preferred  holiday destination. AirAsia data  shows 65% of travelers who went to Japan in the past six  months were Filipinos in the 30 - 50 year  age bracket, most of whom  booked their flights for immediate travel within two months.

Located at the “Heart of Japan”, travelers can  enjoy Nagoya’s rich culture and flourishing industries. Some of Nagoya’s best destinations include the Nagoya Castle, Shirakawago National Heritage Site, Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and the famous Osu Shopping Street.  Nagoya is also a gateway to other destinations in Japan such as the Chubu Region, which also offers a great scenery of Mt. Fuji.    

AirAsia Philippines  is preparing  to fly to Nagoya beginning 29 October, in time for autumn offering an unforgettable sightseeing experience with  a combination of sunny and cooler  weather, perfect for exploring the city and surroundings.

Lalamove Launches Typhoon Relief Operations for Farmers in New Baguio City Service Area

 After recently launching its on-demand delivery services in Baguio City, Lalamove has been in talks with the local government to aid over 80 farmers during times of typhoon and produce oversupply. With the support of City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong, the leading on-demand delivery platform aims to ensure farmers’ earnings are secured in times of crisis and to reduce produce waste. 

As a critical hub for the distribution of vegetables from the Cordillera Administrative Region, Baguio City’s farmers are vulnerable to oversupply issues especially during typhoon season and “Ber” months.

Lalamove’s aid comes during crucial times when farmers’ produce areleft unsold, spoiled, and thrown away, resulting to the farmers’ loss of earnings. According to Djon Nacario, Lalamove Philippines Managing Director, the platform is working hand-in-hand with the Baguio local government to support the farmers’ needs during such incidents.

 

“The agricultural sector is vital to the Philippines. Amid the typhoon season, we have discussed with Mayor Magalong that should the farmers need assistance, Lalamove is ready to rescue-buy their produce, which will be donated to repository markets and communities in need,” explained Nacario.

 

Magalong expressed his support, saying, “Lalamove’s support to the Baguio City farmers cultivates hope and growth for our community, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural sector in the region.”

 

Lalamove is determined to extend this initiative to more farmers and markets across Metro Manila in collaboration with LGUs and other parties interested to serve as repository markets for the rescued produce.

 

“Lalamove is not just about moving goods; it’s about moving lives forward,” said Nacario, adding, “As a testament to our commitment to continuously empower communities, this is just the beginning of the support we aim to provide to Baguio City and to the agricultural sector.”

Enjoy the Olympics experience online with Google

Got the Olympics fever? With nearly two more weeks’ worth of games and festivities to happen in Paris, there’s still a lot to catch. For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the most prestigious athletic competition in the world, you can live and breathe the games thanks to Google’s different tools bringing more than just the action.

 

Here’s how to enjoy the full scope of the Olympics using Google tools:

 

●      Stay updated anytime with Google Search: When you Google Search for a specific country, sport, athlete or the Games in general, you’ll see up-to-the-minute schedules, results, medal counts, top video highlights and daily recaps, as well as the latest top stories and social media perspectives. All of this info will be in Manila time, as well as performance updates and trending events in the Philippines.

●      Explore Paris at home with Maps: Just because you’re not in France, doesn’t mean you can’t go around Paris. Google Maps’ features help you navigate the city with ease, explore attractions, and find the best local spots — and Street View makes it feel like you’re walking its storied streets.

●      Stream all the action and more on YouTube: There’s no more scrambling to find broadcasts. Enjoy live streams and highlights from the games, as well as special exclusive Team Philippines content on the One Sports and Smart Sports YouTube channels. 

●      Learn more about anything and everything Olympics with Gemini: For all fans, especially new followers, it’s easier than ever to learn everything you need to know about the games. Get AI-powered answers to Olympic questions, from athletes to history to more niche sports. Also need ideas for Olympics parties and occasions? Gemini can help you brainstorm plans, too.

●      Get the official Olympics app and more on Google Play: Did you know that there’s an official Olympics app? Download it to get all the latest updates in one place. You can also download the Smart LiveStream app for another place to stream the games live for free.

●      Make it easier to watch the Olympics with Google TV: If you’ve got Google TV, then it’s even easier to stay updated with the games. Google TV has a dedicated Olympics hub for seamless viewing, which is active until August 11 on the “For You” tab.

 

The best time to start catching the 2024 Paris Olympics is now — immerse yourself in the action with Google today.

Palawan Express Pera Padala Expands Digital Payment Solutions for AFPMBAI Members with PalawanPay E-Wallet

 The Palawan Group of Companies, through its Palawan Express Pera Padala (PEPP) service, has expanded its collaboration with the Armed Forces & Police Mutual Benefit Association, Inc. (AFPMBAI) to include digital payment solutions. AFPMBAI members can now conveniently settle their insurance and loan payments through the PalawanPay e-wallet, allowing them to manage their transactions anytime, anywhere. They can also go to any of the over 50,000 PEPP branches, authorized agents, and outlets nationwide.

Members

From left: Missy Baldemor,Head of B2B Department Palawan Group of Companies;Third Librea, President of PalawanPay; Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Chief Development Officer of Palawan Group of Companies; BGen Bienvenido Regondola JR PA (Ret); MGen Nathaniel Y Casem PN (M)(Ret), Head of SOG and COO; MGeneral Henry Doyaoen PA (Ret), Head of CSG and CCSO

The AFPMBAI is a mutual benefit association that offers financial security and protection to members of the Philippines' uniformed services. These include the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Philippine Coast Guard, and the Bureau of Corrections, among others.

This new agreement reinforces the existing partnership between the Palawan Group of Companies and AFPMBAI. In May 2019, AFPMBAI members gained access to over-the-counter payments at any Palawan Express branches nationwide. In 2021, AFPMBAI utilized PEPP’s Disbursement Facility to streamline the processing of member loan proceeds, claims, refunds, dividends, and other benefits across its regional branches and extension offices.

 

“These initiatives have significantly improved payment convenience and accessibility for our members, as evidenced by the steady increase in our collection rates. From 2019 to 2023, our collections have significantly improved through direct payment accounts, demonstrating that our members find the convenience of over-the-counter payments a valuable alternative to visiting AFPMBAI branches,” said Brigadier General Bienvenido Y Regondola Jr PA (Ret), President and CEO of AFPMBAI.

Representing the Palawan Group of Companies at the signing of the agreement were Chief Business Development Officer Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, B2B Department Head Missy Baldemor, and PalawanPay Business Executive Officer Third Librea. From AFPMBAI, the signatories included Head of CSG and CCSO Major General Henry Doyaoen PA (Ret), and Head of SOG and COO Major General Nathaniel Y Casem PN (M)(Ret). “The expansion of Palawan Group of Companies’ partnership with AFPMBAI demonstrates our steadfast commitment to always finding ways to provide our sukis with the best financial transaction experiences,” said Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado.

The Palawan Group of Companies and  AFPMBAI partnership underscores their shared commitment to prioritizing customers and members, leveraging innovative technologies, and upholding integrity and compliance with all applicable laws. Both organizations are dedicated to continuously improving and providing the best products and services, ensuring financial inclusivity and win-win scenarios that meet the needs of their customers and members.

Lenovo is excited to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Back-to-School Promo Wave 2

As the new school year approaches, Lenovo remains committed to delivering smarter technology for all, providing students across the Philippines with the tools they need to succeed. Whether it's for writing comprehensive and compelling essays, creating dynamic presentations, or simply managing day-to-day school tasks, Lenovo has the perfect device for every student.

And to equip these students with the devices they need for a more enhanced learning experience, Lenovo is excited to announce the launch of its highly anticipated Back-to-School Promo Wave 2, "School’s In: Grab Your Lenovo Device & Save."  

 

This special promotion, running from August 1 to September 30, 2024, offers students and educators unbeatable deals on Lenovo's top-of-the-line devices, designed to elevate learning and productivity for the coming school year. 

 

Empowering Education with Smarter Technology

During this promotional period, customers who purchase qualifying Lenovo devices from authorized resellers will be entitled to exclusive freebies. The lineup of participating devices includes the Yoga Book 9i, Yoga Slim 7i Pro X, Legion 7i, IdeaPad Slim 3i, and the LOQ series, among others.  

 

Freebies can go up to a total of PHP 15,000 worth, with a wide range of options encompassing high-quality, top-of-the-line accessories like the classy Lenovo 400 Wireless Mouse and the sleek Legion H200 Gaming Headset to practical items such as the Ark Desk Manual Standing Desk and Canon Pixma MG2570S printer. Students can even avail of a free Lenovo L22e-40 Monitor to level up their room set-up even further.

 

While these devices are primarily designed to boost students' academic performance, they also cater to the need for relaxation and entertainment. Lenovo's versatile devices and the accompanying freebies provide the perfect balance, offering students an enjoyable way to unwind and recharge after a long day of hard work, ensuring they are ready to tackle their studies with renewed energy.

 

Redeeming Freebies Made Easier Than Ever

To redeem the freebies, customers are required to register their purchase on the Lenovo promotions website (promotions.lenovo.com/ph). Please provide a valid ID, proof of purchase, and details of the purchased device upon redemption Once validated, customers will receive their selected freebies within 5-14 business days. Kindly note that shipping costs will be care of the customer.

 

Terms and Conditions

The promo is open to all legal residents of the Philippines aged 18 and above, excluding employees of Lenovo and their immediate families. Only purchases from authorized resellers are eligible, and corporate or wholesale purchases do not qualify for the promotion. 

 

For more information about the exclusive Back-to-School Promo and to view the complete list of participating products, you can visitpromotions.lenovo.com/ph.

Typhoon Carina (Gaemi) Relief: Maya Offers Payment Grace Period to Support Affected Borrowers

To assist customers affected by Typhoon Carina (Gaemi), Maya, the #1 Digital Bank in the Philippines, is extending a payment grace period to borrowers.  

Under this program, selected borrowers of Maya Easy Credit, Maya Personal Loan, and Maya Negosyo Loan will not be subjected to late payment fees for their outstanding credit until August 15, 2024. 

 

The grace period applies to borrowers in good credit standing from the affected areas whose due dates fall between July 21, 2024, and August 5, 2024. Areas covered include the NCR, Rizal, Bulacan, Tarlac, Zambales, Pampanga, Cavite, Bataan, and Batangas.   

   

"We understand the challenges faced by our customers in the aftermath of the calamity, and we want to stand by them during these difficult times," said Shailesh Baidwan, Group President at Maya and Co-Founder of Maya Bank. "This grace period is our way of providing relief and support so they can focus on their recovery."   

  

Eligible customers will receive notifications via SMS and the Maya app. Starting August 16, 2024, the regular charging of fees will resume for all customers. For more information, users are encouraged to visit the Help Center on the Maya app.   

   

Scan to Help Typhoon Relief Efforts 

To help raise funds for typhoon relief, Maya is also supporting various non-governmental organizations by equipping them with donation payment channels such as QR PH-enabled codes.   

Those able to donate are encouraged to scan the Maya QR Codes of partner organizations to extend help to affected communities during this time of need. These NGOs include Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Caritas Manila, JCI Manila, Oxfam Pilipinas, Philippine Red Cross, UNICEF, UNFPA, and Tzu Chi Foundation.    

To donate via Maya QR, follow these steps:   

• Scan the QR code of your chosen organization by clicking the ‘Scan to Pay’ button on your app  
• Make sure that the merchant's name appearing on the app after scanning is the name of the organization you are donating to.   
• Enter the amount you wish to donate.   
• Review your donation and proceed to pay.  

    

Maya is the #1 Fintech Ecosystem in the Philippines, with Maya, the #1 Digital Bank, and Maya Business, the #1 Omni-Channel Payment Processor. Maya Bank is a digital bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), with deposits insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to ₱500,000 per depositor. To learn more about Maya, check out maya.ph and mayabank.ph. Follow Maya at @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok and @mayaofficialph on Twitter.