Miss Universe PH 2024 Chelsea Manalo Unveils Her Journey as PLDT Home Ambassador in Metro.Style Cover

Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and PLDT Home Ambassador Chelsea Manalo talks about staying connected with her loved ones and being her best self in Metro.Style’s latest digital cover story.

Chelsea impressed the whole nation with her performance in Miss Universe Philippines’ swimwear and eveningwear segments. But it was her Q&A about overcoming restrictive beauty standards that captured the hearts of Filipinos and ultimately secured her the win.

 

Speaking to Metro.Style, Chelsea candidly talks about being away from her family in Bulacan, especially now that her Miss Universe journey is running at full speed. A lesson that she learned from her Miss Universe Philippines stint is the importance of maintaining connections with loved ones.

 

“(I always) value the time with the people who are really close to my heart,” she tells Metro.Style. When away from home, Chelsea makes sure to keep in touch with loved ones via landline, mobile, or the internet with reliable connection powered by PLDT Home. The new PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399 with speeds of up to 100 Mbps and unlimited landline and mobile calls covering 5 Smart/TNT numbers in the family allows her to go all out with stories and updates for her loved ones – providing her no limits as she inches closer to her dream.

 

During her Q&A at Miss Universe Philippines 2024 most especially, Chelsea mentioned her mom to be instrumental in building her self-confidence – with constant reminders to believe in herself. Being the first Filipina of African descent to represent the Philippines, Chelsea not only aims to bring representation and diversity to the international pageant, but also to inspire women as her mom did.

 

Chelsea shows that staying connected with people who lift you up will bring out your best self. It’s also proof that your best self starts at home – with family and friends who have always been there since the beginning. Now, it’s her turn to use this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to empower women not just in the Philippines but from around the world.

 

Photo by Dookie Ducay for Metro

 

Read Metro.Style’s cover story on Chelsea Manalo here. Know more on who have always been there for her through her journey — and how she relies on PLDT Home to connect with her loved ones, fulfill her advocacies, and ultimately conquer her dreams here:

 

Photo credit: PLDT Home

Just like Miss Universe Philippines 2024 and PLDT Home Ambassador Chelsea Manalo, you too can be your best self at home by subscribing to PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, designed to give customers the best value for their money. Go super charged as you enjoy unlimited Fiber connection with speeds of up to 100Mbps, unlimited entertainment with Cignal, and unlimited calls to Smart/TNT all in one plan!

 

Never miss a connection with your friends and family. To know more about the PLDT Home Fiber Unli All Plan 1399, visit pldthome.com/fiber for more details.

realme 12 4G: UNBOXING AND FIRST IMPRESSIONS

How much are you willing to pay for a smartphone that boasts a gorgeous display, an impressive camera, and a sleek design that turns heads? With the Realme 12 4G, you don't have to stretch your wallet to enjoy these premium features.  

Let's dive into the unboxing and see what makes this phone a standout choice for anyone looking to combine style and functionality.

What's in the Box

The excitement of unboxing a new gadget is unparalleled, and the Realme 12 4G doesn't disappoint. As you lift the lid, you're greeted with the phone itself, nestled securely in protective packaging. Beneath the device, you’ll find the essentials:

• 67W SUPERVOOC Charging Adapter
• Type A to Type C USB Cable
• SIM Ejector Pin
• Protective Case
• Quick Guide and Warranty Card

 

realme ensures that you have everything you need right out of the box. The inclusion of a protective case is a nice touch, especially for those who want to keep their phone safe from day one.

DESIGN

The realme 12 4G is designed to impress. Available in two stunning colors, Pioneer Green and Skyline Blue, this phone is a fashion statement in itself and would go well with any of your OOTDs. The device feels premium in hand, with its 7.92mm thickness and lightweight design making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.

 

Just like the rest of the series, the design is inspired by sleek and fashionable timepieces, realme integrated trending color palettes into the Realme 12's design while capturing the intricate details of high-end watches. This results in a stylish fashion choice that doubles as a fashion statement. Unlike the previous number series, the realme 12 4G carries the same design principles as its more expensive siblings in the realme 12 series, ensuring a consistent and premium look across the lineup. The back panel's subtle gradient finish catches the light beautifully, giving it a sophisticated look that stands out from the crowd. This minimalistic yet chic design is perfect for those who value aesthetics and functionality in their tech accessories.

 

DISPLAY

One of the standout features of the realme 12 4G is its 6.67” E4 AMOLED display. The screen-to-body ratio of 92.65% ensures an immersive viewing experience, whether you're watching videos, playing games, or browsing social media. The Full HD+ resolution delivers sharp and vibrant visuals, making every image pop with clarity.

 

What truly sets this display apart is its brightness. With a peak brightness of 2,000 nits in Sunlight Mode, you can easily view your screen even under direct sunlight. This is a game-changer for those who usually work outdoors, and will prove useful when taking photos outdoors as you don’t have to find a shade to see what’s on screen.

CAMERA

For photography enthusiasts, the realme 12 4G offers an impressive camera setup. The 50MP Sony LYT600 sensor, combined with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), ensures that your photos are sharp and detailed, even in low-light conditions. The camera's Master Filters and optimized Portrait Mode let you capture stunning portraits with beautiful bokeh effects.

The NightEye Engine is particularly noteworthy, allowing you to take clear and detailed photos at night. The front-facing 16MP camera also impresses, perfect for selfies and video calls with friends and family.

 

PROCESSOR AND BATTERY

Under the hood, the Realme 12 4G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 processor, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and more demanding applications. Whether you're multitasking, streaming videos, or playing games, this phone handles it all with ease.

Battery life is another strong point. The 5000mAh battery provides ample power to get you through the day, and with the 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging, you can go from 0% to 50% in just 19 minutes. This means less time tethered to a charger and more time enjoying your phone.

 

So far here are the features I’m really excited to test out for our full review. 

Gorgeous Display: The 6.67” AMOLED display is perfect for media consumption, offering vibrant colors and exceptional brightness.

Cameras: Its been dubbed as the Portrait Master so the 50MP main camera, with its advanced features and filters, should be fun to use during my trips and coverages.

Fast Charging: The 67W SUPERVOOC charging ensures that your phone is always ready to go, making it ideal for busy schedules.

So far I’ve been able to try almost every realme 12 series phone, and despite being the most affordable of the series, the realme 12 4G offers a similar experience with all the essential features I need to do my work as a blogger and content creator. 

 

Be sure to follow me on my FB page @lemongreenteaph, TikTok @lemongreenteaph, FB @lou sv  to get updates see our sample photos and our full review which will be out next week! 

 

Forest Lake’s 10th National Sales Convention Celebrates PHP 3.2 Billion Milestone and Honoring a Committed Sales Force

 

Big milestones call for grand celebrations, and Forest Lake Development Inc., the Philippines' leading memorial park developer, commemorated its remarkable achievement of surpassing PHP 3.2 billion in sales in 2023 with a spectacular gala at its 10th National Sales Convention. The celebration, held at the Grand Ballroom of City of Dreams Manila last April, paid tribute to Forest Lake’s top-performing sellers whose tireless efforts have propelled the company to new heights.

Forest Lake’s President’s Circle with President & CEO, Alfred Xerez-Burgos III (8th from left) 

With CEO Alfred Xerez-Burgos III and the President’s Circle.

 

The event not only highlighted Forest Lake’s impressive sales figures but also marked its expansion to over 37 sites nationwide, solidifying its extensive network of memorial parks. Most importantly, the convention served as a platform to honor Forest Lake’s over 5,000 active sellers, whom the company regards as indispensable to its success and sustained market leadership.

Forest Lake’s Vice Chairman Alfred Xerez-Burgos, Jr. Welcomes NSC Delegates Vice Chairman Alfred Xerez-Burgos, Jr. delivering warm welcome remarks to the 10th NSC awardees and delegates.

“Our sales team's exceptional performance in achieving PHP 3.2 billion in sales is a true testament to their dedication and hard work,” said Alfred Xerez-Burgos III, Forest Lake’s President and CEO. “Their relentless pursuit of excellence has been the cornerstone of our success."

The convention, themed "Unstoppable Icons," also announced an all-expenses-paid trip to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, for top-performing agents, sales leaders, and park managers. This reward underscored Forest Lake’s commitment to recognizing and incentivizing its sellers' exceptional efforts.

 

Carlos Miguel V. Locsin, Forest Lake’s National Sales & Marketing Head, emphasized the significance of the company’s sales-driven growth: “We are proud to announce that Forest Lake has achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing PHP 3.2 billion in sales revenue. This accomplishment reflects our stature as the strongest sales force in the industry.”

In praising its sellers, Forest Lake ensures that their efforts are rewarded with substantial benefits, including commissions, bonuses, recognition programs, and significant career development opportunities. These incentives are designed to foster excellence and motivate sellers to reach their full potential.

 

Editha Basa, Forest Lake’s top agency manager, affirms this, saying, “Being part of Forest Lake has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The incentives and support we receive motivate us to achieve our best, and seeing our efforts contribute to the company's growth is truly fulfilling."

As Forest Lake continues to pursue sales-driven growth throughout the year, the developer remains confident that its dedicated sales team will continue to expand, living up to this year’s battle-cry: “United We Soar, 4 for 2024.”

 

“Our ultimate goal has always been to establish a nationwide reach, where we can serve every Filipino through our developments,” said Carlos Miguel Locsin. “This can only be achieved through the efforts of our top-notch sales team, who have been with us on every step to success.”

Forest Lake invites those interested in joining its dynamic sales force to explore available career opportunities on its official website, forestlakeparks.com. Aspiring sellers and interested clients can also visit Forest Lake’s official Facebook page at facebook.com/ForestLakeMemorialParks and Instagram at @forestlakememorialparks.

 

 

For over 27 years, Forest Lake has established itself as a leader in providing thoughtfully designed, family-friendly memorial parks throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. These parks are more than places of remembrance; they are vibrant spaces where families gather, connect, and celebrate their loved ones' memories.

 

As the foremost memorial park developer in the Philippines, with over 37 parks nationwide, Forest Lake is committed to expanding its offerings to include total memorial care services such as chapels, columbariums, and cremation. This expansion underscores the company's dedication to meeting the evolving needs of Filipino families.

 

Guided by its mission to create "A Better Place," Forest Lake upholds values of innovation, creativity, teamwork, personalized service, value creation, and professionalism. The company integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance service delivery and foster a seamless, personalized experience for every client. Forest Lake’s collaborative approach ensures that each park is a testament to thoughtful design and professional excellence, offering significant value to both clients and investors through low-risk, high-yield opportunities.

 

Forest Lake Memorial Parks is headquartered on the third floor of Alexcy One Building, 51 President’s Avenue, 1718, Parañaque City. For more information, email info@forestlakeparks.com or visit forestlakeparks.com. Follow Forest Lake on Facebook @ForestLakeMemorialParks and Instagram @forestlakememorialparks.

 

Join Forest Lake in its vision to provide spaces where the memories of loved ones are celebrated and immortalized, and where families can create new, lasting memories together.

 

Catch the world’s biggest book sale at Trinoma until Aug 15

Heads up, Manila wolfies! Big Bad Wolf TriNoma Book Sale is wrapping up soon! It’s your last chance to catch the world’s biggest book sale at Ayala Malls TriNoma, open until August 15 from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Run, don’t walk! Fill up your totes with crazy good reads before the Wolf leaves the city.

Don’t miss the awesome deals and promos, still up for grabs! Metrobank is still offering credit cardholders a special 0% 3-month installment promo for single-receipt purchases worth at least P3,000. Plus for every purchase worth P3,000, Swedish furnishing brand IKEA is giving customers one raffle coupon for a chance to win P50,000 worth of furnishings! IKEA Family Members who are also BBW Members can avail exclusive 10% Weekday Discounts for a minimum spend of P2,000 by presenting both their BBW Membership and their IKEA Family Membership. Discount is valid for english books in the book sale.

Want to add to your reading list? Check out these amazing books at budget-friendly prices, only at the Big Bad Wolf Trinoma Book Sale:

Discover more good reads from Big Bad Wolf’s collection of over two million books. Celebrate “Buwan ng Wika” with amazing Filipino titles from local and independent book publishers, including Filipino children’s literature, adult fiction, and graphic novels, at the book sale.

With only a few days left, Big Bad Wolf still has lots of surprises under their sleeve for the Trinoma book sale! Last August 11, guests were treated to appearances from their favorite villains and superheroes with a chance to meet and greet their favorite characters. Missed out on the fun? Worry not, there’s more in store as Big Bad Wolf gets ready to head to their next destination! To stay up to date with the latest news and updates, be sure to check out Big Bad Wolf Philippines’ social media pages.

What are you waiting for? Visit the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale at Ayala Malls, TriNoma, happening until August 15. Doors open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Gather your pack and catch the Big Bad Wolf before it goes! We’ll see you there!

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  

Shop LG’s Online Brand Store Today!

LG launches its very own Online Brand Shop (LG OBS) – your go-to destination for a seamless and convenient shopping experience! This one-stop platform allows you to browse, purchase, and receive LG products directly at your doorstep, making it easier than ever to access the latest in electronics and home appliances.

The LG OBS (www.lg.com/ph) offers an extensive range of LG products, from state-of-the-art electronics to essential home appliances. Designed for user-friendliness, the website allows you to easily explore product features, compare options, and make well-informed decisions, all from the comfort of your home. With LG OBS, your purchase, delivery, and installation can be completed in just 3-5 days. LG provides full care from end-to-end, so you can enjoy your LG purchase and experience Life’s Good instantly.

Limited-Time offers from LG.com

Experience exceptional value with exclusive discounts and deals on the LG OBS website. LG.com customers can take advantage of exclusive freebies from the LG products and services team. Keep an eye out for special offers, limited-time promotions, and bundle deals that you won't find elsewhere, guaranteeing the best prices on your purchases.

For example, if you buy a window-type air conditioner from July 23 to August 23, 2024, you can receive a free window air conditioner cleaning service.[1] The complimentary service can be claimed within 6 months after purchase for every air conditioner purchased. This offer is valid for customers within GMA (Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, and Rizal).

Additionally, you can get a free air filter[2] when you purchase a PuriCare 360° Air Purifier from July 23 to August 23, 2024. This promotion is valid only for the following models: AS60GHWG0, AS10GDWH0. The freebie will be delivered along with your air purifier purchase.

Lastly, enhance your laundry experience with our new washer-dryer sets, which are best completed with stacking kits. From August 8 to September 8, 2024, when you purchase from LG.com, you can receive a FREE stacking kit[3]  with your washer-dryer set. The stacking kit will be included with your delivery. This promotion applies to select models only.

 

 

 

Payment flexibility is a key feature of LG OBS. You can choose from a variety of payment options, including credit cards, e-wallets like GCash and Maya, and financing plans such as BDO’s 3-month 0% interest installment or Home Credit. Secure online bank transfers are also available for added convenience.

 

By signing up for an LG Membership, you can enjoy perks like a 5% welcome coupon, free delivery, and complimentary installation services for eligible products. Visit the LG Online Brand Shop to explore the full range of products and benefits, and experience a smarter, more connected lifestyle with LG.

RLC Residences Opens Tower 2 of MIRA

Riding on the fast-moving success of the first tower, RLC Residences announced the launch of MIRA's second tower this July, as part of Phase 1 of the development. 

 

In a remarkable achievement, MIRA by RLC Residences has swiftly become one of the most sought-after residential developments. Launched earlier this year, the first tower of MIRA reached an impressive 80% sales since it was first introduced last April.

 

“We are thrilled to see such an overwhelming response to MIRA. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to designing homes with your family's future in mind. Our focus has always been to create living spaces that cater to the evolving needs of modern families, blending comfort, connectivity, and technology seamlessly,” said RLC Residences’ Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer Karen Cesario. 

 

Convertible Flexible Units for a Future-Ready Home 

 

MIRA aims to support families in every stage of their journey and so offers convertible flexible units, a unique innovation that allows families to adapt their living spaces to their changing needs, providing both versatility and functionality. For example, buyers with big families can choose to combine two 1-bedroom with balcony units. On the other hand, a 2-bedroom with balcony unit can also be split into a studio and 1-bedroom with balcony 

Two-bedroom with balcony unit at MIRA by RLC Residences. Artist’s Perspective.

 

Moreover, each MIRA unit is equipped with smart home upgrades, such as fiber optic technology and automation systems for lighting, locks, and sockets, ensuring a future-ready living experience. Buyers and future residents will also have access to the myRLC Home app, an all-in-one home management solution that enables users to conveniently manage condo-related transactions, including online payments, permit and pass requests, and more, anytime and anywhere.

 

Beyond its growth-empowering units, MIRA also offers amenities designed to foster growth and connectivity among its residents.  With over 8,000 sqm. in amenities, 73% is dedicated to outdoor amenities, offering families ample space to enjoy and bond, while other amenities include The Playground - a multi-purpose court and an indoor running track, wellness zone, and various recreational facilities, ensuring that families have a wide array of options to enjoy and engage in an active lifestyle.

 

Promise of Intensified Connectivity 

 

MIRA's prime location in Quezon City can be considered a key driver of its recent success. Its location places it near essential conveniences and major business districts like Araneta City, Eastwood City, Ortigas Center, and Makati. This strategic positioning ensures that residents have easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and key transport hubs, enhancing the overall living experience. 

 

MIRA by RLC Residences is strategically located in Quezon City 

 

Moreover, Quezon City is set to greatly benefit from significant transportation developments such as the Metro Manila Subway, Unified Grand Central Station, and Skyway C6. The Metro Manila Subway is expected to be partially operational by 2025, providing faster and more convenient travel across the city. The Unified Grand Central Station, now 83% completed, will link various urban transit systems. offering seamless connectivity. Meanwhile, Skyway C6, still under construction, will soon be a 34-km expressway bridging Skyway/FTI to Batasan Complex in Quezon City.

 

These infrastructure advancements will not only enhance the connectivity and convenience for MIRA residents but also significantly uplift the overall appeal and accessibility of the community.

 

“MIRA reflects our vision of creating homes that are not only beautiful and functional but also nurturing environments where families can thrive. We are proud to launch the second tower and continue our journey of providing exceptional living spaces for Filipino families,” adds Cesario

 

For more information about MIRA by RLC Residences, visit rlcresidences.com.