Xiaomi Unveils Stylish and Sleek Xiaomi Band 9

Xiaomi, a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an Internet of Things (IoT) platform at its core, proudly unveils Xiaomi Smart Band 9 in the Philippines, a groundbreaking device that redefines personal wellness and style in wearable technology.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 boasts a sleek design, offering an extensive suite of wellness features. With a 16% improvement in heart rate monitoring accuracy³, the band provides reliable all-day heart rate and SpO₂ tracking, as well as a 7-day resting heart rate monitoring¹. Users can also get to know their stress levels and vitality scores to help manage daily wellness. In addition, its sophisticated sleep tracking capabilities provide an in-depth sleep insight report after 7-night above-wear, covering sleep schedule, sleep continuity, naps, all-day stress, and exercise before bed, providing personalized recommendations for enhanced sleep quality¹.

Powered by a robust 233mAh battery, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 delivers up to 21 days of continuous usage², making it an ideal companion for active lifestyles. Its vibrant 1.62" AMOLED display boasts a 50% increase in peak brightness³, reaching up to 1,200 nits, which guarantees clear visibility even in bright outdoor environments. Supporting over 150 sports modes, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is equipped with specialized features for running and cycling, including 10 on-wrist running courses and metrics such as VO₂ max and recovery time, all designed to enhance training efficiency and optimize performance.

Blending fashion with functionality, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 is available in five body colors: Glacier Silver, Midnight Black, Arctic Blue, and Mystic Rose, with the new Titan Gray joining soon. These are complemented by a frosted aluminum alloy frame, offering a sophisticated look that can be paired with a range of versatile accessories to suit any occasion.

Xiaomi Smart Band 9 will be available on Xiaomi’s official Shopee store for an SRP of P1,999 and a special early-bird price of P1,699 until August 21, and in all authorized Xiaomi stores nationwide starting August 29, 2024.

Xiaomi Pop Run 2024: Empowering Filipino Runners with Professional Races and Fun Runs at SM Mall of Asia

 Xiaomi continues to empower Filipinos’ running eras with this year’s edition of its much-awaited Xiaomi Pop Run on August 31 at the SM Mall of Asia complex in Pasay City.

The Xiaomi Pop Run 2024 is split into two categories: a Professional Race for those serious about running and competing, and a Fun Run for those who just want a casual and stress-free run testing themselves. 

The Professional Race is a ranked 10-km run to see who the fastest is. Not only will runners in the Professional Race compete to set the quickest time, but they’ll also be racing to win gadgets and devices from the smartphone brand. The champion will win a Xiaomi 13T smartphone, while second and third place will win a Xiaomi Watch S2 and Xiaomi OpenWear Stereo, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Fun Run is a 5-km race with no time rankings — runners will only compete against themselves to try and set a new personal record.

Due to overwhelming demand, runner kits for the Xiaomi Pop Run are limited. We’ve reached our initial registration cap but will open additional slots soon. The first group of registrants will receive an exclusive race t-shirt, a finisher bag, a fascia ball, and a finisher’s medal upon completing any category.

To ensure all participants can join the fun, we encourage subsequent registrants to wear something orange during the race. 

Stay tuned for updates on the release of new registration slots on the Official Xiaomi Facebook Page.

The Xiaomi Pop Run 2024 is also best enjoyed and experienced with a fitness wearable, such as the upcoming Xiaomi Smart Band 9. With the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, they can track important vitals such as heart rate, calories burned, steps made, and blood pressure to maximize their runs. Stay tuned for more updates on the Xiaomi Smart Band 9.

Challenge yourself and win special prizes from Xiaomi along the way by joining when you register through this link!

#XiaomiPOPRun2024 #PassionBeyondLimits 

Ballet Manila will present a stunning restaging of 'Giselle

 World-renowned ballet superstars from the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet, Renata Shakirova and Alexei Timofeyev, will be coming to Manila for a rare Philippine performance in the restaging of Ballet Manila’s Giselle set to happen at the Aliw Theater on August 31, 2024 at 8pm and September 1, 2024 at 5 pm.

This much-awaited collaboration with the Russian superstars of ballet once again highlights Ballet Manila’s artistry and keen eye for excellence in every production, by working with world-class performers – this time for Giselle. This very special collaboration was made possible by Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s artistic director and chief executive officer, and her close ties with the Mariinsky Ballet (formerly Kirov Ballet) where she also trained and became the first foreign soloist in the mid-80s. She shared, “The fact that we are collaborating with guest artists and star performers Renata Shakirova and Alexsei Timofeyev will always bring out the best in the company.”

With their star power, Macuja Elizalde couldn’t be more excited for their rendition of the well-loved Giselle. “I think that Renata’s true romantic style of dancing and the fact that she is dancing with her real-life prince Alexei is going to transform Ballet Manila’s Giselle to a Giselle of another level,” she adds. The world-renowned Russian dancers, incidentally, are married to each other in real life. 

Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Renata joined Mariinsky Ballet, one of the leading dance companies in the world, upon her graduation in 2015 and was immediately given her first principal role as Kitri in Don Quixote. That same year, she was listed among the 25 to Watch by Dance Magazine. And in 2016, she competed in the Bolshoi Ballet Competition, where she won first prize. 

Meanwhile, Leningrad-born Alexei joined Mariinsky Ballet in 2004 and is currently the soloist of the dance company. As a soloist, he managed to secure various awards under his belt, including prize-winner at the VII International Ballet Competition in Seoul in 2010; diploma-recipient at the XVI International Rudolf Nureyev Ballet Festival in 2010 where he was cited for his superb levels of professionalism and contribution to the development of ballet in the Republic of Bashkortostan; and diploma-recipient at the XI International Ballet Dancers’ and Choreographers’ Competition in Moscow in 2009.

While it is their first time to perform on the Philippine stage, Renata is looking forward to connecting  with the Filipino audience through her performance. “What’s important to be able to connect with the audience, wherever they are, but especially with a Filipino audience, is to highlight the small nuances that are included in the performance, like the turn of the head or the eye-to-eye contact with your partner, so that the emotions in the story can be conveyed and that the audience can enjoy the show.”

Meanwhile, Alexei excitedly looks forward to performing in front of a new audience, as he noted, “We are feeling the good kind of vibes with the Filipino audience, and we want them to live the story of Giselle with us on stage. It’s going to be our first time, and we hope to share that special experience with all of them.”

The third offering of Ballet Manila’s 26th performance season, dubbed Ballet Masterpieces, Giselle is a classic love story of a village girl (Giselle) who falls in love with Albrecht, not knowing he is already engaged. When she finds out, she dies of a broken heart and becomes a wili, joining the souls of girls who are also wronged by their men. Meanwhile, Albrecht visits the grave of Giselle, who protects him from Myrtha, the vengeful queen of the wilis. 

Complementing their performances is a dynamic ensemble made up of young and veteran dancers from Ballet Manila, which, according to Macuja Elizalde, is the main change for the restaging of Giselle. “Ballet Manila Corps de Ballet is made up of more young members who have just joined the company post-pandemic - standing side by side with Ballet Manila dancers who are "veterans" and have performed the ballet many times before.”

The two-act ballet will interestingly showcase the talents of real-life couples both on and off stage. Ballet Manila's principal dancers Abigail Oliveiro and Mark Sumaylo will headline the performance on August 31 at 1pm while the world-renowned duo Renata and Alexei will take on the title roles  on August 31 at 8pm and September 1 at 5pm.

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. To know more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph 

RLC Residences Hosts IRONKIDS Davao 2024 and Clinches 3rd Place in IRONMAN Davao

It was a full-packed yet highly successful weekend for RLC Residences as the real estate developer and Sunrise Events, a part of IRONMAN Group, hosted the Davao leg of IRONKIDS 2024 while their IRONMAN female relay team became a podium finisher of IRONMAN 70.3.

RLC Residences IRONKIDS Davao 2024

The RLC Residences IRONKIDS team during the duathlon race at Davao City

More than just a competition, RLC Residences IRONKIDS Davao is also a celebration of young talent, determination, and sportsmanship. Held on the picturesque coast of Davao, the event brought together almost 300 young athletes aged 6 to 14, all eager to test their mettle in a series of run-bike-run challenges. For many participants, IRONKIDS is their first taste of competitive sports, making it a critical stepping stone in their athletic journey.

“Witnessing the children’s perseverance and sportsmanship at an early age are two of the many things we love about IRONKIDS. We are grateful to have this opportunity because it inspires us to continuously support young athletes like them in their quest to become great in their chosen sport,” shares Karen Cesario, RLC Residences Marketing Head and Chief Integration Officer.

Prior to the day of the event, RLC Residences hosted a special family affair with the kids and their parents in attendance, including the brand’s IRONKIDS team who happily participated in the different activities. Cesario also shared that one of the kids is currently preparing to try out for the upcoming SEA Games for his age group.

“When we learn about stories like these, it makes us more motivated to extend whatever support we can give these kids. We wish to help them achieve these goals and sincerely hope that they qualify. But overall, what we really aim for is to be with them as they start this journey and help them win in life,” says Cesario.

RLC Residences Triathlon Team in IRONMAN Davao 70.3

Alessandra Silerio, Maicee Quejada, and Tricia Cruz from RLC Residences Triathlon Team are podium finishers in the all-female relay at IRONMAN Davao 2024.

In addition to RLC Residences IRONKIDS Davao, the brand also had a personal stake in the prestigious IRONMAN Davao, with one of their own athletes securing a remarkable 3rd place podium finish. Composed of Alessandra Silerio, Maicee Quejada, and Tricia Cruz, the power trio finished the entire swim-bike-run course in a span of 5 hours and 18 minutes. 

The rest of the team, who also competed in both individual and relays, successfully finished the race and reached the finish line. 

“Racing for IRONMAN 70.3 is no easy feat, that’s why I’m always proud of the team for continuously breaking records for all of us. This is the first time that our all-female relay unit made it to podium finish since we established the team in 2022, and I’m thankful to them for this historic win,” says Dan Carlo Torres, RLC Residences’ Brand Management and Operations Head and Team Lead of the brand’s triathlon team. Torres also competed in the race and finished the course in 5 hours and 45 minutes.

The IRONMAN Davao is known for its grueling course, which challenges even the most seasoned athletes. Competing against some of the best in the world, RLC Residences’ representatives showcased not only physical endurance but also the mental toughness required to excel in such a demanding event. 

RLC Residences has been a staunch supporter of IRONMAN and IRONKIDS, and their involvement in both races is part of a broader strategy for community building and celebration of wellness and sportsmanship. The brand believes that supporting events like this serves as a reminder that with determination, dedication, and a supportive community, anything is possible for aspiring athletes.

To know more about RLC Residences and its properties, visit rlcresidences.com or follow them on their official Facebook and Instagram pages.

 

Grab PH launches a series of online videos "Sorry, Di Mo Na Kami Pwedeng Gawing Excuse"

Grab Philippines is taking a humorous approach to highlighting its improved booking reliability, launching a series of online videos that poke fun at extreme excuses people may give for being late or canceling plans – with GrabCar no longer being a viable excuse as it is now more reliable. 

The campaign, titled "Sorry, 'Di Mo Na Kami Pwedeng Gawing Excuse," is a direct response to the company's improved driver allocation for passengers and a more reliable booking experience.

The leading superapp reports that in the first half of 2024, GrabCar has seen a significant improvement in passenger experience, with nine out of 10 passengers trying to book a Grab ride being successfully allocated a driver. 

To emphasize this message, Grab partnered with Gigil, a multi-awarded creative agency, to produce three humorous videos showcasing absurd excuses people might use to avoid commitments now that booking on GrabCar is more reliable. From faking a dog attack, teasingly breaking the law, to accidentally dropping their phone in the toilet, the videos are designed to resonate with viewers and reinforce the idea that GrabCar is no longer a convenient excuse for being late.

The campaign has been a social media hit, garnering 20 million views in just three days and a warm reception among the online audience. 

J-anne Aruta, Grab Philippines Country Marketing Head, states, "Through the intriguing paradox in 'Sorry, ‘Di Mo Na Kami Pwede Gawing Excuse', we aim to instill confidence in our passengers that GrabCar is now a more reliable transportation alternative – a safe and convenient way to get back home to their families or reach their intended destination.” The marketing leader emphasizes the film's resonance with an insight that is a shared truth among many Filipinos. Aruta humorously remarks, "We've all found ourselves in this situation – crafting the most plausible excuses to avoid commitments or justify delays; sometimes even blaming the unavailability or challenges in securing a ride. However, Grab persistently strives to put an end to this amusing habit of playing the 'I couldn't book a ride' card."

Grab attributes this to various efforts in keeping more driver-partners active; and to an array of technologies and new features like Advance Booking, Multi-Taxi Type Booking, and Group Rides that enhance and optimize every GrabCar’s reliability and utilization. 

Our Favorite Kontrabida is Back at Handa Na Siyang Lumaban Against a New Karibal

This kontrabida kween needs no introduction. One of Philippine teleserye’s most beloved kontrabidas is making a comeback—Maja Salvador. After recently giving birth to her first baby, she’s taking on a new role, arguably her biggest and most pivotal one yet—being a mother. 

As Maja steps into the world of motherhood for the first time, she finds that her priorities have drastically changed. Her family’s health and safety are now at the very top of her list. Yet no sooner than, a new karibal dares to threaten her growing family—germs.

This kontrabida is unfazed, however. After all, she’s not alone.  

Maja Finds a New Kakampi Against Germs

In one of her TikTok reels, Maja reveals her newfound ally against germs, and it is both expected and unexpected—Safeguard White Camellia. 

As Maja’s TikTok reel keeps rolling, however, her followers are met with a plot twist: Safeguard White Camellia doesn’t just provide Maja with germ protection but lets her experience healthy-looking and soft-feeling skin, too. (Pwede pala ‘yun?).

Her followers aren’t the only ones to be caught by surprise. Maja is also delighted to discover the “mas napakabango pa” floral scent of Safeguard White Camellia, which contains White Camellia extracts.

It seems Maja is having a ShowerSaya experience with Safeguard White Camellia and she can’t wait to share it with her family.

Together with Safeguard White Camellia, Maja feels “indestructible” and reigns supreme over germs, bringing #ShowerSaya to her family.

More and More Popular Content Creators are Joining Maja Salvador

She may be a kontrabida but Maja is not alone in her #ShowerSaya as popular content creators in the likes of Adam Domingo or known as @panginoonngkababawan, Devi Descartin (@devidescartin), Ciara Magallanes or @mommydiariesph on TikTok, Christine Lim (@limmchristineee), Christian Laurenz, commonly known as @ychanlaurenz and Bernie Batin or known as @berniecularvlogs on TikTok have also discovered and experienced the #SoftSkinProtection of the NEW Safeguard White Camellia. 

You, too, can join in on the #ShowerSaya. 

Get your hands on Safeguard White Camellia, available in all leading supermarkets and drugstores nationwide as well as on Shopee and Lazada. 

Foundever™ Triumphs as Best Employer Brand at the Philippines Leadership Awards 2024

 Foundever™, a global leader in the customer experience (CX) industry, won the Best Employer Brand award at the Philippines’ Leadership Awards 2024.  

The prestigious prize was conferred by organizers Advantage.ai and the World Human Resources Development (HRD) Congress to Foundever for beingone of the “top organizations from the Philippines that are exemplary in HR and effectively used Marketing and Communications for Human Resources Development.” The awarding ceremony was recently held at the Dust Thani Hotel in Makati.

 

BEST EMPLOYER BRAND. Foundever™, a global leader in the customer experience (CX) industry, recently won the Best Employer Brand Award at the Philippines Leadership Awards 2024. Foundever was recognized for its successful and effective programs for human resources development combined with the use of marketing and communications. The prestigious prize was conferred by organizers Advantage.ai and the World HRD Congress during the awards ceremony at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City.

“We are grateful to Advantage.ai and the World HRD Congress for this recognition.  We know that the criteria and parameters for this award is quite stringent and not easy to meet. We see this award as a validation of our organization’s focus on the wellbeing of our employees, and as a sign for us to continue our programs and policies that promote our associates’ effectiveness at both the professional and personal levels. 

Our goal is always to create a workplace culture that is holistic, balanced, and promotes not only productivity but more importantly, the health, wellness, and happiness of our associates to help them nurture their passions and reach their potential. This is what human resource development is about,” said Rowell Villalobos, Director for Organizational Development.

The Best Employer Brand Award is given to organizations that successful and effectively implement the following: Translating and Combining Vision with Action with HR Strategy; Building line to mesh HR Strategy in view of Business Transformation; Cultivating competencies for the future to enable building the organization to be future-ready; Talent Management and Talent Development; Recruitment Strategies and Employee Engagement; Benefits & Recognition, Diversity & Inclusion, and Women Empowerment; and, Promoting & Managing Health at the Workplace; and CSR Initiatives. 

The World HRD Congress is a global platform that enables HR professionals to come together, learn, share, and network. It is a non-profit organization that works to promote the profession of HR and to help HR professionals develop their skills and knowledge. The World HRD Congress also hosts conferences; some of the important themes from past conferences include HR Tech, Diversity and Inclusion, and Women Leaders in HR.

Dengue Decoded: Dispelling Myths and Protecting Your Health

 As the rainy season persists, communities across the country are facing a surge in health concerns, with dengue fever emerging as a pressing issue. Recent data from the Department of Health (DOH) has reported a troubling 15% increase in dengue cases compared to the same period last year.1 This rise is a reminder of the urgent need for vigilance and accurate information to combat this rapidly spreading mosquito-borne illness.

Dengue fever, recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the fastest-spreading mosquito-borne illness globally, affects approximately 400 million people each year and is prevalent in over 100 countries.2 The increased incidence this year highlights the need for proactive measures and clear communication about the disease.

 

Despite the growing threat, many myths and misconceptions continue to cloud public understanding of dengue. Addressing these misconceptions is crucial for effective prevention and protection:

 

Myth #1: Dengue fever cannot be contracted more than once.

 

Fact: The dengue virus (DENV) has four distinct serotypes. Immunity from one serotype does not protect against the others, making subsequent infections possible and potentially more severe.

 

Myth #2: Dengue is contagious.

 

Fact: Dengue is transmitted through bites from infected female mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti3. It cannot be contracted through human contact or respiratory droplets, making mosquito control essential.

 

Myth #3: An infected mosquito only breeds in dirty stagnant water.

 

Fact: Aedes aegypti mosquitoes lay eggs in any stagnant water, whether clean or dirty. Common breeding sites include basins, pots, jars, and rain gutters. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent mosquito infestation.

 

Myth #4: Dengue fever is only a risk during the rainy season.

 

Fact: While the rainy season can increase mosquito breeding sites, dengue fever is a risk year-round due to mosquitoes being attracted to carbon dioxide and heat.

 

Myth #5: The body can naturally recover from dengue fever without medical intervention.

 

__________________________

1DOH: Dengue cases 15% higher in 2024 1H

2 World Health Organization: WHO & World Health Organization: WHO. (2024, April 23). Dengue & severe dengue

3 Dunkin, M. A. (2023, September 24). Dengue Fever

 

Fact: Dengue fever usually presents as a week-long episode of severe headache, vomiting, and muscle pain4. Immediate medical attention is crucial, as some individuals may require hospitalisation despite initial recovery with rest and hydration.

 

With no specific cure for dengue fever, the focus must remain on preventive measures and accurate information. In response to the increasing number of cases, Pru Life UK is stepping up to support affected individuals and families.

 

Both PRUDengue MedCare and PRUDengueMedCare Pro provide financial assistance upon diagnosis of dengue. Additionally, PRUMedCare – Select Infectious Diseases offers broader coverage, including protection against a range of infectious diseases namely Dengue, Typhoid, Measles, and Malaria. Both products are designed to help Filipino families manage the financial impacts of health risks, providing essential support during unforeseen events.

 

For more information on Pru Life UK's protection products, visit https://www.prulifeuk.com.ph/en/.