Building Future Innovators: BingoPlus Foundation Empowers Youth with Robotics, Programming, and Holistic Support

Robotics and Programming Workshop Inspires Young Innovators

BingoPlus Foundation, the social development arm of Digiplus Interactive Corp, gave the students Cadiz City, Negros Occidental, a significant boost in their robotics and programming aspirations by organizing a workshopthat will develop their skills and deepen their knowledge in the robotics and programming field.

Almost 5,000 students of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental will benefit and receive a big boost in their robotics and programming skills because of the training hosted by BingoPlus Foundation last November.

Held last November, celebrating Children’s Month, the training brought together elementary to senior high school students from Dr. Vicente F. Gustillo Memorial National High School, Sped High School, Cadiz West Elementary School I and II, Cadiz East Elementary School I and II, Caduha-An National High School, Villacin National High School, Tiglawigan National High School, Sped Training Center and, DepEd Cadizoffering them hands-on experience in building and programming robots.

 

An estimated 4,853 students will benefit from the robotics and programming initiatives to be implemented at the different schools led by the students who took part in the initial seminar.

Students from 10 schools and DepEd across Cadiz City enthusiastically dive into learning at the Robotics and Programming workshop, showcasing their curiosity and passion for innovation.

"At BingoPlus Foundation, we believe in empowering the youth with skills that prepare them for the future. By providing access to robotics and programming training, we’re sparking their curiosity and equipping them with tools to innovate and lead in a technology-driven world,"said Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation.

Roxan Cosico, founder of the Robotics and Programming Guild of the Philippines, led the robotics discussion, providing participants with the skills to create robots and program them for specific tasks. In addition to students, 213 teachers also gained valuable knowledge to guide future generations. 

 

Aside from the robotics and programming training, the city also received robotics kits which will be housed at the Cadiz Public Library, one of the adopted PLUS centers of BingoPlus Foundation.

Going the Extra Mile for Youth

BingoPlus Foundation’s initiatives reached further, providing 50 students from the Carol-an IP Community in Kabankalan with tablets to enhance their learning experience. Meanwhile, 60 scholars attended the second session of the FutureSmart Leadership Assembly last November 30 at the DigiPlusheadquarters.

The session, titled The Power of Habits, focused on helping students develop positive routines to improve academic and personal growth. With a hybrid format, the assembly brought together scholars onsite and virtually, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and actionable plans for success.

Robotics and Programming Guild of the Philippines founder, Roxan Cosico passionately inspires the next generation of innovators through hands-on teaching.

Holistic Support for Health and Welfare

BingoPlus Foundation also extended aid to children’s health and basic needs. In Kalaklan, Olongapo, 350 kids received free medical checkups, vitamins, and essential medicines. Additionally, orphans at Saint Rita Orphanage in Parañaque City were provided with food and baby essentials, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing the nation’s youth through education, health, and care.

 

Smart empowers subscribers via the Smart 5G Max Experience

Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc., (Smart) is pulling out all the stops as it showcases how it empowers subscribers via the Smart 5G Max Experience, happening on Dec. 14, Saturday, on 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

 

Catch Bamboo, Belle Mariano, Moira Dela Torre, AC Bonifacio, and Arthur Nery as Smart puts the spotlight on the many amazing ways Filipinos can harness the power of 5G—from streaming ultra-high-definition movies and shows, sharing content on social media in real time, to playing high-bandwidth mobile games without lag.

“Everyone is talking about 5G and its impressive speed, but the true value of 5G lies in its ability to enhance experiences— whether it's gaming, streaming, or sharing content. With Smart 5G Max, we’ve made 5G seamless in Bonifacio Global City (BGC),  and we plan to expand this coverage across the country in the coming months,” said Kristine A. Go, Senior Vice President for Smart Wireless Consumer Business.

 

“Gone are the days of fluctuating connections from 5G to 4G and even 3G. With Smart 5G Max, you can enjoy, fast download speeds for streaming, instant uplink for sharing, and  low-latency for gaming — all without interruption and on-the-go,” she added. 

 

The latest wireless technology, 5G or fifth generation brings four things to the table: super-fast speeds for downloads and uploads, ultra-low latency for gaming and responsiveness, greater bandwidth for more devices, and a much better quality of service.

 

Everyone can experience these first-hand at the Creator’s Lab, Game Arena, Stream Theater, and 5G-powered Stage and Store.

 

Explore Smart 5G at the Creator’s Lab

 

Get the chance to explore the Creator’s Lab, an interactive area where you can experiment on creating content and upload it on TikTok in a snap.  

 

The Creator’s Lab has a complete livestream set-up, and green screen backdrop dance challenge floor, and duet singing booth for your instant TikTok content.

 

Level up your gameplay with Smart Omega 

 

Take your gameplay to a whole new level at the Game Arena, where you can get a chance to go up against the Smart Omega team on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang to win a prize!

The Game Arena will feature a 5v5 set-up with high end gaming smartphones to maximize the power of Smart 5G Max.

 

Watch your favorite shows at the Stream Theater

 

If you are into binge-watching, the Stream Theater is the best place to catch up on the latest shows on MAX and Netflix!

 

Expect surprise celebrities to drop by while you watch Max’s Dune and Netflix’s Squid Game in glorious 4K – complete with exclusive swag!

 

Generate your Avatar, interact with robots

 

The event will also have a generate-your-own-avatar section, where you can simply take a selfie, generate a digital image, and get a QR code for easy download.

 

You can also interact with a Service Delivery Robot and Robot Dog at the event. 

 

Bamboo banners FREE concert

 

The must-not-miss live performances of Bamboo, Belle Mariano, Moira, AC Bonifacio, and Arthur Nery will cap the event with a free concert.

 

Lucky fans will get the chance to meet and greet AC and Belle and take their photos with them to share on social media.

 

Mark your calendars and experience the power of Smart 5G Max on Dec. 14, starting at 2 p.m., on 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. To know more, follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook, X, TikTok and IG.

Metrobank GIFT: Your Head Start to a Stronger Financial Future

 The holiday season is indeed the most wonderful time of the year for many Filipinos. The -ber months usher in heartwarming reunions with loved ones, fun gift-giving, and of course, the anticipated Christmas bonus.

For Metrobank, one should plan for the holidays even before the –ber months start. The holiday season is a time of joy, but it can also be financially stressful for many Filipinos. Overspending during the -ber months often leads to a January financial hangover – which is why as early as August this year, Metrobank introduced a new financial guide called G.I.F.T. so you can enjoy the festivities without the stress of financial worries and get ahead of your goals in the coming year. G.I.F.T stands for: 

 

● Get guided with goals: Starting the holiday season early means you have more time to strategically plan your finances even before the new year starts. Set or revisit your short-term goals like going on a holiday trip, and long-term goals such as setting aside emergency funds or purchasing your dream home. With this, it’s easier to plan how you can achieve them in the next year.   

 

● Invest a portion of your bonus: As you receive your bonus during the holidays, commit to reserving a portion for investments that grow in value. Consult a trusted financial advisor on appropriate investments for your life stage. Making meaningful investments can help grow your money instead of spending it all now.  

 

● Follow a budget: The holiday season is a great time to treat yourself and your loved ones with meaningful gifts. As you find the perfect present for those who are close to your heart, it is important that you still follow a budget plan. Discipline in tracking your income and essential and non-essential expenses is key.  

 

● Take advantage of deals: Avoid the tendency of overspending by maximizing opportunities to save – including keeping an eye out for value-based offers. Smart shoppers are always aware of deals and discounts that will give them the best value for their money.  

 

To help Filipinos easily remember these four tips, Metrobank turned this into The GIFT Song, a catchy holiday carol that’s fit for the season. Watch and listen to the GIFT Song music video on the Metrobank Facebook and YouTube pages. You can also catch it on various radio stations. 

 

 “Financial empowerment has always been a part of Metrobank’s advocacy. G.I.F.T. is more than a holiday song or message—it’s a call to action for Filipinos to take charge of their financial future. Let’s shift from surviving the holidays, to thriving financially, not just this season but all year long. Let's create our G.I.F.T. resolutions today and inspire others to do the same,” said Digs Dimagiba, Metrobank Chief Marketing Officer.   

 

With Metrobank’s G.I.F.T, you can definitely make better financial decisions this holiday season and step into the new year with confidence. Learn more about the G.I.F.T. Resolutions here: https://earnest.metrobank.com.ph/gift-of-financial-wellness/    

 

AirAsia Philippines Closes 2024 with Record-Breaking Growth and Service Milestones

AirAsia Philippines is set to close 2024 on a high note, marking a year of significant growth and achievements that have shaped the airline’s journey toward sustainability and excellence in the aviation industry.

SMALL WINS, BIG GAINS FOR THE PUBLIC WE SERVE

This year, AirAsia Philippines flew over 7 million guests, surpassing the 6.6 million recorded in 2023 and showcasing its steady recovery and growth. Nearly 500,000 passengers are projected for December 2024, with an additional 250,000 expected in January 2025.

Key factors driving this success include a 77% increase in fleet size compared to 2023, with 16 serviceable aircraft. The airline also rolled out 11 double-digit promotional offers and its popular P1SO deals, staying true to its mission of democratising air travel across Asean and beyond.

This surge in capacity allowed AirAsia Philippines to strengthen its presence in key leisure destinations such as Caticlan (Boracay) Cebu and Tagbilaran (Panglao), and Narita, Osaka, Incheon and Bangkok  for international, ensuring the airline is a top choice for travellers seeking to explore new horizons.

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, echoed optimism, emphasing the airline’s pivotal role in supporting Philippine tourism. “Our goal is to bring more tourists into the Philippines in 2025 and continue to strengthen our domestic operations. We plan to add more aircraft, launch new routes, and possibly surprise destinations in the coming year,” he shared.

The World’s Best Low-Cost Airline’s footprint in the Philippines continues to expand with the introduction of new offline AirAsia Travel and Service Centers to 34 this 2024 from 29 last year , while AirAsia MOVE continues to record strong growth, ensuring seamless access for guests booking their flights, hotels and activities with 19.3 million total online visits.

Meanwhile, Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE, highlighted the importance of enhancing the traveller experience, “We are excited for 2025 as it will be a defining year for AirAsia MOVE. Our focus is on delivering seamless travel experiences and connecting travellers across the globe while offering a wide range of options that suit their needs,” she added.

SAFETY IS A TOP PRIORITY

AirAsia Philippines remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers. AirAsia Philippines under the AirAsia Aviation Group Limited have again been awarded for upholding the highest levels of safety and operational integrity with a perfect 7/7 rating from the experts at airlineratings.com. This achievement is driven by key initiatives such as extensive employee training, a highly experienced engineering team with more than 20 years of expertise, and rigorous maintenance procedures.

AirAsia has also shifted to revolutionise its presence across the region through strategic partnership with Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) subsidiary of Capital A.

“At AirAsia, we put a premium on the safety and wellbeing of our guests. AirAsia continues to push the boundaries on what it means to be a low cost carrier because low cost doesn’t mean low service for our airlines”, said AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla.

WE ARE WINNING FOR YOU

By staying true to its brand promise of democratising air travel and making it accessible to everyone, AirAsia achieved remarkable recognition this year. It was named the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax for the 15th consecutive year. Recently, the World Travel Awards also honored the airline as the World's Leading Low-Cost Airline for the 12th year in a row. Additionally, its cabin crew received accolades for excellence, being named the World's Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew for the eighth consecutive year. These prestigious awards are a testament to AirAsia’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service and best value travel experiences, making them key highlights of 2024.

AirAsia’s commitment to inclusivity and meaningful partnerships also stood out this year. By positioning the Philippines as a Halal tourist destination, the airline introduced Halal-certified inflight meals under its Santan menu, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its travellers while adding value to their travel experiences.

LOOKING TO 2025 AND BEYOND: STABILITY AND GROWTH

AirAsia Philippines is poised to support tourism growth in 2025, actively participating in festivals and further developing both domestic and international markets.

The airline is focused on forging meaningful collaborations with the government through the Department of Transportation and its attached agencies, CAAP, CAB and MIAA. It is likewise excited to open the new year by bringing customer journey to a new level at Manila’s gateway with the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC).

“This year has been a transformative one for AirAsia Philippines. As we look back, this year was one of recovery, resilience, and above all, optimism. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. But through it all, we have stayed committed. And it is your ongoing support that has helped keep our spirits sky high and our focus laser sharp.”

“We take pride in our achievements, which highlight the airline’s steady recovery. Looking beyond 2025, we are committed to sustainable growth and stability, ensuring we consistently deliver excellence and reliability to our guests,” Isla added.

Step into Your Independent Era: 3 Tips for Living Solo in 2025

 Have you been dreaming of finally carving out a space you can call your own? As 2024 wraps up, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your aspirations and take that leap into independence. With more millennials and young professionals seeking to live solo, this represents freedom, growth, and self-discovery.

Whether you’re envisioning a home that mirrors your personality or planning a strategic investment for your future, these three steps will help you make the transition to solo living seamlessly. 

 

Step 1: Secure Your First Investment

Owning your first property is a life-changing milestone that builds long-term financial security. It’s not just about having a home—it’s about investing in your future.

 

Take Sierra Valley Gardens as an example. With a 42% price appreciation since launch, it’s a smart move for financial growth. This property offers units tailored to various needs, whether you’re starting with a studio or opting for a 1- or 2-bedroom flat with balcony options. Flexible payment terms make property ownership accessible.

 

Tip: Start researching properties and consult real estate experts to explore financing options. Sierra Valley Garden’s growth potential makes it ideal for young, independent homeowners.

Artist's Perspective of Sierra Valley Gardens

 

 

Step 2: Create a Space That Reflects You

Solo living is your chance to design a space that’s uniquely yours – a haven for creativity, relaxation, and productivity.

 

Sierra Valley Gardens offers modern layouts and energy-efficient features, perfect for personalizing your home. Incorporating smart home technology like smart locks, lighting, and audio-video intercoms will elevate your living experience, offering convenience while amenities like the residence lounge, pools, and pet park enhance your lifestyle.

 

Tip: Plan your setup with decor ideas that maximize space and reflect your personality. Minimalist designs are great for smaller areas and for those who aim to live a more productive life.

Artist's Perspective of Sierra Valley Gardens' one-bedroom unit

 

Step 3: Prioritize Location for Growth

Location is key to maintaining a balance of independence and accessibility. Your ideal home should connect you to career opportunities, social hubs, and daily conveniences.

 

Sierra Valley Gardens ticks all these boxes! Located along Ortigas Avenue Extension, it provides access to Metro Manila’s key establishments. With the upcoming MRT Line 4, commuting will soon be even more convenient.

 

For young professionals and first-time homeowners, this property’s strategic location offers the best of both worlds: staying close to people and places that matter while enjoying the freedom of having your own space. 

 

Tip: Look for properties near infrastructure, lifestyle hubs, and future developments to boost your investment’s value and enhance daily living.

 

 Sierra Valley Gardens is strategically located in Rizal and near key business districts in Metro Manila

 

 

Your solo living journey begins with one bold step—take it now and redefine independence on your own terms as you step into 2025 with confidence.

 

Visit rlcresidences.com or contact our sales team to learn more about Sierra Valley Gardens and begin your journey today.

 

Warm Up Your Holidays with 7-Eleven's City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate

 There’s nothing like Christmas in the Philippines. A truly Paskong Pinoy is about celebrating life’s simple joys with friends and family. Dedicated to always bringing a sense of comfort to the community, 7-Eleven is fostering that hearty feeling of togetherness this holiday season with sweet sips to make the yuletide merry and bright. 

As the air fills with the warmth of the season, 7-Eleven delights everyone with the arrival of a Filipino holiday staple, the hot chocolate. Serving this decadent drink is a long-held local tradition lovingly made by homemakers and shared with loved ones during Christmas. 

 

Now, everyone can soak in the magic of the season anytime and anywhere with the City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate. Starting at just P35, this warm and cozy drink is made to bring back memories of cheerful Christmas mornings while gathered at home. Creamy and chocolatey, it’s the perfect drink to wind down within the midst of the holiday rush; a complementary partner to their newly launched holiday classics, 7-Fresh Bibingka and Puto Bumbong; or an indulgent treat after simbang gabi with the family. 

 

To truly usher in December, this release is accompanied by the launch of 7-Eleven’s annual holiday cups. Each year, everyone’s paboritong kapitbahay ups the festive fun with special designs that embody the yuletide spirit. This 2024 is no different as the City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate and other City Cafe and City Prima drinks are wrapped in the scenes and colors of Christmas, so every purchase of their favorite beverage will remind them that the most wonderful time of the year is truly here. The holiday cups are available for a limited time only. 

The City Cafe Signature Hot Chocolate along with other City Cafe and City Prima drinks in their special holiday cups are now in stores nationwide. Visit one today and bond with loved ones to sip the season’s warmth at 7-Eleven.

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

 

Make Every Peso Count This Holiday Season with Maya Saves Xmas and a ₱1M Grand Prize!

Its  that time of year again! Whether you’re treating yourself to festive goodies or gifting your loved ones what they truly deserve, Maya Saves Xmas by giving your holiday gastos back with up to a whopping ₱1 million grand prize. As the #1 Digital Bank app in the Philippines, Maya is making this season extra special with holiday perks that help you make every peso count. 

Spend Big & Celebrate Bigger 

From Noche Buena spreads to surprise gifts, spend it all with Maya! Every time you pay with Maya Wallet, QRPh, Maya Card, or the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card from November 4 to December 31, 2024, you get closer to the ultimate holiday treat: a ₱1million grand prize or one of five monthly cash prizes worth ₱100,000 each. 

Boost your Holiday Budget 

Short on cash? Don’t let your budget hold you back from memorable celebrations or ticking off your holiday goals! Unlock up to ₱30,000 with Maya Easy Credit or go big with a Maya Personal Loan of up to ₱250,000 in seconds! Now, you’ve got the freedom to spread joy without stressing over expenses—whether it’s decking the halls, loading up gift bags, or hosting the ultimate holiday party. 

Earn More on Your Savings 

With Maya Saves Xmas, it’s not just about winning big prizes. Every spend lets you boost your savings up to 15% p.a., too. Maya’s high-yield savings option earns you up to ₱1,200 per month in interest, so you’re maximizing every peso. And for those using the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, every swipe gives you up to 5% cashback—another reason to shop with confidence this season! 

From holiday shopping to paying bills or even treating yourself, every ₱1,000 you spend with Maya counts and brings you a step closer to being a millionaire!  

Let Maya be your holiday sidekick, making every spend count with a chance to win big, save more, and celebrate fully. This Christmas, get more bang for your buck with Maya and end the year with a bang! 

For more information about Maya Saves Xmas, Again swing by maya.ph/xmas. Stay in the loop with Maya's exciting offers by visiting maya.ph and mayabank.ph. For the latest updates and exclusive content, follow Maya on social media: @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. 

Holiday Glam Awaits: Exclusive SM Beauty Experiences You Can’t Miss!

 It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and SM Beauty is your ultimate destination for all things gifting! With a dazzling array of beauty brands, unbeatable holiday deals, and exciting experiential activities, there’s something for everyone on your list—and plenty to treat yourself too!

 

Here’s a sneak peek at the exclusive experiences you won’t want to miss at select SM Beauty Department Stores this holiday season:

 

Ever Bilena Makeup Bar

Where: SM North Edsa and SM Baguio Department Stores

When: December 6, 2024 – December 28, 2024

 

Get ready to build your dream goodie bag! At the Ever Bilena Makeup Bar, customers can grab a medium bag for just Php 499 or go all out with a large bag for Php 599—and fill it to the brim with fabulous Ever Bilena products.But the fun doesn’t stop there. Once you’ve checked out, swing by the booth to bedazzle and dress up your bag with charming stickers, making it as unique as you are.

Spotlight Advent Calendar Experience

Where: SM Mall of Asia and SM Megamall Department Stores

When: December 6, 2024 – December 28, 2024

 

Step into the magic of the holidays with Spotlight’s life-sized Advent Calendar Experience! Test your luck with their thrilling pachinko ball game to unveil a mystery gift from the calendar for just Php 999. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of surprise and luxury to your Christmas season.

 

Don’t wait—head to your nearest SM Beauty Department Store to shop, play, and make your holiday sparkle. These activities are available for a limited time only, so make your Christmas shopping extra magical with SM Beauty today!

Follow SM Beauty on social media for more updates and exclusive offers.

 

Let the countdown to Christmas begin!

 

Libby’s Corned Beef: The Ultimate Pantry Bestie for ’Pinas Sarap Mealtimes“

 Having grown up with the famous “blue can” Vienna Sausage, it’s safe to say that most Filipinos definitely have a lot of love for Libby’s. As a brand that’s been a breakfast staple for many people over the years, Libby’s came up with yet another must-try ulam that everyone’s bound to love to shreds too.

Meet the all-new Libby’s Corned Beef, a flavorful delight in every serving that’s sure to make mealtimes with loved ones ’Pinas Sarap. A 260 gram can comes with perfectly shredded meat, specially seasoned to distinctly capture the Pinoy palate. Best when pan-fried, have it with rice, as palaman to pandesal, or mix it up and experiment with your own creation—whatever style it’s eaten in, its versatility makes for the ultimate pantry bestie. Additionally, it’s also high in protein to help accompany and power up anyone’s day just like any reliable BFF.

 

Libby’s Corned Beef is certified masarap by top food content creator Abi Marquez and entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, who were both present at its official launch last December 5, 2024 atLevel 2 Concourse, One Ayala, Makati City. Dubbed Meat Your New Bestie, Libby’s Corned Beef, visitors who love all things food had the opportunity to “meat” their fellow foodies while learning a fresh and yummy way to whip up their corned beef during a cooking demo with Abi and Nico. Also in attendance were Conagra’s Country Manager for Asia Pacific, Bianca Rosal; Regional Marketing Manager for Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East and Africa, Cathy Castro; and Business Development Manager for Asia and Oceania, Marian Apun.

Other exciting activations at the event were a life-sized puzzle game booth. Guests also took note of new recipes to try at the free tasting spread that featured various corned beef dishes, which they can easily do on their own for breakfast, lunch, or merienda. This included yummy servings of the Corned Beef and Potato Skillet, Corned Beef Sisig, Corned Beef Sliders, and the Classic Corned Beef and Rice. 

 

Additionally, some guests even brought their besties along to capture warm moments beside a 6.5-feet tall replica of the Libby’s Corned Beef can. Exciting freebies like tote bags, aprons, and cans of Libby’s Corned Beef were given away too.

 

Enjoy the comfort of Filipino-style corned beef with Libby’s and make every bonding moment even more ’Pinas Sarap. Get a taste of it now and add it to your cart in select grocery stores nationwide.

 

Join us in spreading the Libby’s Love. For more information, follow @libbysphilippines on Instagram and Facebook.