Kickstart 2025 with Action and Drama: Lionsgate Play’s Thrilling January Lineup

 Hello, 2025! The new year is off to an electrifying start, and Lionsgate Play is here to keep you entertained like never before. Whether you’re craving high-stakes action or gripping drama, this month’s second half lineup has it all - promising an unforgettable January. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to binge watch with Lionsgate Play! 

The 355 

When a top-secret weapon falls into the wrong hands, CIA wild card Mason "Mace" Brown (Jessica Chastain) teams up with three unlikely allies to save the world from chaos. Alongside the relentless German agent Marie (Diane Kruger), tech-savvy MI6 specialist Khadijah (Lupita Nyong'o), and the level-headed Colombian psychologist Graciela (Penélope Cruz), she engages in a pulse-pounding race across the globe -- from the elegant streets of Paris to the bustling markets of Morocco and the high-stakes auction houses of Shanghai. But there's a twist at every turn as a shadowy figure, Lin Mi Sheng (Fan Bingbing), seems always one step ahead, forcing the team to build a shaky trust that might secure the weapon or destroy them all.

The Young Pope

After a shocking rise to power, Lenny Belardo (Jude Law) becomes the first American pope, adopting the name Pius XIII. His unexpected election is seen as a calculated gamble by the College of Cardinals, but Lenny quickly proves to be anything but predictable. Aloof and enigmatic, he defies Vatican traditions, relying solely on Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), as his trusted confidante. While Sister Mary encourages him to connect with his billion-strong flock, the young pope remains distant, stirring tension and intrigue within the Holy See.

The New Pope 

Looking for a follow-up? "The New Pope" picks up where "The Young Pope" left off, blending biting satire with gripping drama to peel back the gilded facade of the Vatican. When Sir John Brannox (John Malkovich), a refined and charismatic English aristocrat, rises to the papal throne as John Paul III, the Vatican is thrust into a new chapter of leadership.

Madam 

When Mack Leigh (Rachel Griffiths) discovers her husband’s infidelity and is drowning in debt, she takes an unexpected and bold step to secure her family’s future -- launching an ethical brothel. Madam follows Mack’s daring attempt to challenge societal norms, redefine the meaning of sex work, and tackle the stigma surrounding her unconventional business.

With Lionsgate Play’s stellar January lineup, your screen time is about to skyrocket (in the best way possible). Don't miss out on these fresh releases and subscribe today!

 

Sun Life Grepa Extends Healthcare Support to Ahon sa Hirap Members in Kalibo, Aklan

Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), one of the major insurers in the country, recently conducted a medical and dental mission in Kalibo, Aklan, for members of Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI), an organization committed to uplifting underprivileged communities across the Philippines.

This initiative, held as part supporting Life Insurance Consciousness Week, offered a full day of healthcare services to ASHI members, including medical check-ups, dental consultations, and the distribution of essential medications.

“Our goal has always been to uplift the lives of Filipinos in line with our purpose of enabling financial security and healthier lives," said Peter Miranda, Sun Life Grepa's Vice President for Group Marketing Operations. "By providing support to ASHI members, we’re not only addressing immediate health needs but also empowering them with knowledge and resources for their well-being. We are honored to bring this service to Kalibo, Aklan, as part of our ongoing commitment to serve and help build more resilient communities.” 

This medical mission was conducted in collaboration with Stronghold Insurance, which generously provided meals for both attendees and volunteers.

This latest medical and dental mission reaffirms Sun Life Grepa’s sustained commitment to ASHI members. Previous missions have been conducted in communities across the country, including Dasmarinas, Cavite; Mauban, Quezon; San Jose, Antique; and Pililla, Rizal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HUAWEI Unveils the Mate X6: A Groundbreaking Leap in Foldable Technology

HUAWEI has officially launched the HUAWEI Mate X6. The newest flagship foldable phone from HUAWEI represents the pinnacle of foldable technology with AI-powered photography, offering users advanced features to meet the demands of their fast-paced lifestyles. The HUAWEI Mate X6 is available for pre-order beginning January 17, 2025 until January 30, 2025. 

HUAWEI has been at the forefront of foldable innovation, having worked on this technology long before the launch of the HUAWEI Mate X in 2019. Since then, the leading tech brand has consistently pushed the boundaries with new and diverse foldable designs, including the pocket-sized fold, the dual fold, and the groundbreaking HUAWEI Mate XT Triple Fold, which is the first of its kind. HUAWEI’s innovation goes beyond just form factors, tackling numerous technical challenges to ensure top-tier performance, all while maintaining slim, lightweight designs. This allows HUAWEI foldables to deliver an exceptional large-screen experience, setting the standard for the industry and challenging typical bar phones for convenience and performance.

HUAWEI Foldable: Reliability from the Inside Out

Today’s digital landscape demands reliability in smartphones. HUAWEI Mate X6 is designed to be reliable from the inside out, thanks to innovative engineering and materials that make it incredibly durable and dependable. These ensure that the HUAWEI Mate X6 handles both the bumps of daily life and the demands of advanced technology.

1. Exterior Screen with 2nd Gen KUNLUN Glass, 25 Times More Drop-Resistant

The HUAWEI Mate X6’s exterior screen is protected by 2nd Generation KUNLUN Glass, a game-changing innovation that significantly improves the phone’s durability. Unlike traditional glass, this next-generation material has a stronger glass network structure that prevents the screen from deforming or cracking under external pressure. This allows the HUAWEI Mate X6’s exterior screen to be up to 25 times more drop-resistant, so users can confidently use the phone daily without worrying about accidental drops.

2. Interior Screen with Carbon Fiber Inner Screen Plate for Superior Strength

The HUAWEI Mate X6 elevates durability with its advanced composite laminated structure, which features a carbon fiber inner screen plate that significantly boosts the screen's strength. Renowned for its exceptional toughness, carbon fiber reinforces the HUAWEI Mate X6 with a support layer boasting a deformation resistance of 380 GPa — 65% stiffer than the materials commonly used in smartphones. Remarkably, even a thin section of this material can lift a 150kg motorcycle. This innovative design ensures the inner screen is protected from the stress and pressure of frequent folding and unfolding, maintaining its integrity over time.

3. Aviation-Grade Aluminum Middle Frame to Survive Violent Collision Test Unscathed

The HUAWEI Mate X6 features an aviation-grade aluminum middle frame, which plays a crucial role in the phone’s durability. This high-strength material protects the device from impact during accidental drops, keeping the phone intact. Aviation-grade aluminum is stronger than standard aluminum and offers enhanced resistance to bending and compression. In a violent collision test, the HUAWEI Mate X6 withstood the impact without any noticeable damage, proving its exceptional resilience and reinforcing its reputation for durability. 

4. Advanced Multi-Dimensional Hinge with 1900MPa Ultra-High Strength Steel

A key feature of any foldable phone is the hinge, and HUAWEI’s advanced multi-dimensional hinge in the HUAWEI Mate X6 sets a new standard for durability and performance. The hinge is made from 1900MPa ultra-high strength steel, increasing its strength and ensuring it can endure frequent opening and closing without weakening over time. 

Efficient Cooling with Heat Source Separation and Innovative Materials

The HUAWEI Mate X6 uses an innovative cooling system that keeps the phone cool by separating heat sources, increasing heat dissipation for better performance. It features a smart heat dissipation design with graphene film and a 3D VC heat spreader to keep things running smoothly despite the phone’s heavy use. The phone also uses Ultra-High Thermal Conductivity Graphene, which is more efficient at transferring heat and helps to quickly cool down the phone while gaming or taking video calls.

HUAWEI Mate X6 also comes with a 2-meter IPX8 water resistance⁠. This ensures the device stays safe, whether users caught in a downpour or splashing around at the pool.

Premium Design with Lightweight Durability

The HUAWEI Mate X6 sets a new benchmark for foldable smartphones with its sophisticated craftsmanship, durability, and camera technology. Designed with a Space-Age Orbit camera layout and an exclusive vegan fiber finish, it symbolises both futuristic elegance and practicality. The HUAWEI Mate X6 is incredibly thin and light, while exuding a premium look and feel. More than its sleek design, the HUAWEI Mate X6 is built with durable technology and maintains both elegance and toughness. Weighing just 239g and measuring only 9.85mm thick when folded, the phone combines the convenience of a regular phone with the strength and resilience of a foldable device. When unfolded, the phone is just 4.6mm thick. The rounded, soft quad-curve frame with smooth corners enhances its premium appearance while providing a comfortable grip.

Revolutionising Multi-Tasking and The Best Foldable Photography

With its 50MP Ultra Aperture Camera, 40MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and 48MP telephoto micro camera, the HUAWEI Mate X6 allows users to capture life's moments effortlessly. Whether capturing wide landscapes during a hike or close-up shots at family gatherings, the camera system ensures every photo is stunning.

With Live Multi-Task, the HUAWEI Mate X6 enhances productivity by allowing users to run three applications simultaneously on the expansive unfolded display. Users on the go can be on a video call with colleagues, review a project presentation, and make notes all at once on the device’s expansive screen. Wherever users are, the HUAWEI Mate X6 seamlessly adapts to various multitasking needs, enhancing both work and leisure activities. 

Unfold the Classic with the HUAWEI Mate X6

Prepare to uncover the best flagship foldable phone with powerful chroma photography. The HUAWEI Mate X6 is now available for pre-order.  HUAWEI’s latest smartphone comes in Nebula Red and Black, retailing for PHP 114,999 on Shopee, Lazada, Tiktok, HUAWEI Online Store, and HUAWEI Experience Stores nationwide. 

HUAWEI will hold an exclusive VIP Preview for the HUAWEI Mate X6 and HUAWEI nova 13 Series at 35 select HUAWEI Experience Stores on January 18 to 19 at 3PM, and on January 25 to 26 at 3PM.

Pre-order the HUAWEI Mate X6 today and get freebies worth PHP 44,797 including a HUAWEI WATCH GT 4, DJI NEO, trade-in token worth PHP 10,000, and a 1-Year Accidental Screen Damage Protection good for one use. 

This exclusive offer is available from January 17 to January 30, 2025.

To learn more, visit Huawei’s official website or social media accounts (Facebook | Instagram).

Solaire Resort North Welcomes the Lunar New Year with the Philippines’ First Lunar Fiesta

Solaire Resort North celebrates the auspicious Lunar New Year by introducing the country's first Lunar Fiesta. The celebration embraces influences from various Asian cultures, infused with Filipino warmth and Solaire’s signature luxurious service.

Paying tribute to the rich tapestry of cultures that honor the Lunar New Year, Solaire Resort North welcomes the Year of the Snake with a vibrant celebration. Starting January 25, guests can participate in “salu-salo” feasts at Red Lantern and Fresh International Buffet, admire stunning installations, enjoy world-class entertainment, and enter lucky draws to attract prosperity and good fortune in 2025.

Red Lantern’s Lucky Lunar Feast features two individual set menus crafted to capture the spirit of the Lunar New Year with a selection of exquisite dishes that blend tradition with modern flavors.

Championing family togetherness and the tradition of reunions, Red Lantern presents the “Lucky Lunar Feast,” featuring two lavish set menus of exquisite dishes including Phoenix chicken, Teow Chew-style cod fish, dried oyster, and suckling pig with Prunier caviar available from January 25 to February 02, starting at Php 4,888++ per set. Spotlighting the flavorful dining options, an extensive dim sum selection including truffle shrimp dumplings and abalone siu mai will be available through the eat-all-you-can “Prosperity Feast” from January 25 to February 02, at Php2,688++ per person. Both offers come with a premium traditionalYu Sheng (Prosperity Toss) served at every table to ensure a festive start to every guest’s meal.

Red lantern’s Prosperity Feast is an expanded Dim Sum lunch with 49 dishes to choose from including truffle shrimp dumplings and abalone siu mai as shown in the photo.

With the tradition of sharing blessings with loved ones, Red Lantern thoughtfully curates Lunar Fortune Boxes, filled with symbolic foods and premium treats such as a God of Wealth-shaped Tikoy, Bird's Nest Sugar Rock, Black Truffle Abalone, and Kwei Chow Mou Tai, available from Php 6,888 to Php 88,888.

For bountiful winnings for the year, families may also gather to enjoy a remarkable selection of Chinese and global cuisines during lunch and dinner at Fresh International Buffet’s “Flavorful Fortunes” on January 29 for Php 3,388++ per person. Lucky diners are invited to savor the flavors of prosperity through traditional dishes such as Yu Sheng (prosperity toss), dim sum, taro, and lotus seed paste.

Master Harry Gu delights the diners at Red Lantern with a traditional performance art, the Chinese Kung Fu TeaCeremony.

Embracing the customs, Solaire Resort North will feature cultural entertainment and ceremonies at the lobby starting with the renowned Long De Chuan Ren (LDCR) Dragon & Lion Dance Association from Myanmar and our very own Pagoda Khuan Loke Dragon and Lion Dance Association performing the traditional lion and dragon dance to ward off negative energy and welcome prosperous times between 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on January 30. Meanwhile, renowned feng shui expert Master Clement Chan Ting Bong offers his exceptional fortune-reading prowess to guide patrons towards balance and harmony this yearon February 8 from 12:00 NN to 6:00 PM.

The Grand Fortune Box, one of Red Lantern’s Lunar Fortune Boxes, contains opulent treats like a God of wealth-shaped Tikoy, Kwei Chow Mou Tai, Black Truffle Abalone, and many more.

Further gracing the Solaire Resort North lobby is a special Lunar New Year installation featuring a golden Tree of Prosperity. A manifold of orange ang baos adorn the property’s very own Prosperity Tree, perfect for capturing the essence of the Lunar Fiesta in photos. Solaire Rewards members are invited to spin the roulette wheel next to this attraction for a chance to earn up to 100,000 bonus peso points from Monday to Thursday throughout January, between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

For more details, reservations, and inquiries, visit the Solaire Resort North website at sn.solaireresort.com, or contact them at +632 8888 8888 or via email at sn.reservations@solaireresort.com to discover the perfect way to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

HONOR PH just dropped HONOR X9c 5G with an irresistible price of Php 16,999 and an equally irresistible pre-order promo of a FREE ROLEX DATEJUST Watch!

 

HONOR Philippines PR Manager Pao Oga, Digital Marketing Manager and Content Head Eason De Guzman, Vice President Stephen Cheng, Country Manager Sean Yuan, GTM Director Steven Yan, Brand Marketing Manager Joepy Libo-on, and National Training Head Jaynard Lamarca with Gentry Timepieces Owner and Co-founder Hayb Anzures 

 

Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just dropped HONOR X9c 5G with an irresistible price of Php 16,999 and an equally irresistible pre-order promo of a FREE ROLEX DATEJUST Watch to when you secure your own HONOR X9c 5G from January 10 to 24, 2025. For only Php 16,999, the latest HONOR X9c 5G has set a benchmark with an All-Angle Triple Defense, the toughest phone of 2025. 

 

"HONOR consistently leads the way in developing innovative technologies that address user challenges. The latest HONOR X9c 5G features the next generation of the HONOR Anti-drop Display, providing impressive resistance to drops from heights and IP65M rating that withstands accidental water submersion and splashes,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. 

 

The event was spectacularly done with important personalities coming from HONOR’s pool of media, influencers, partners, and performers. 

 

Opened by a back-to-back performance of the up-and-coming PPop groups KAIA and 1st.One, the HONOR X9c 5G Grand Launch started with a blast. HONOR Philippines PR Manager Pao Oga then welcomed the esteemed guests and shared the wins of the toughest phone even before its launch. 

 

HONOR Philippines National Training Head Jaynard Lamarca and Brand Marketing Manager Joepy Libo-on discussed the amazing performance and specs of HONOR X9c 5G while the brand’s Digital Marketing Manager and Content Head Eason de Guzman presented the price of the phone. 

 

The main highlight of the night is the partnership talk with Gentry Philippines where it was announced that together with HONOR Philippines, they are giving away a FREE ROLEX DATEJUST Watch to a lucky pre-order buyer. The night was capped off through an energetic performance from The Itchyworms. 

 

HONOR X9c 5G: All-Angle Triple Defense 

 

The HONOR X9c redefines durability with its innovative HONOR Anti-Drop Display. Designed to withstand accidental drops, this display enhances the overall user experience by enduring falls from heights of up to 2 meters. It boasts advanced protective shields and ultra-tempered glass, ensuring comprehensive coverage against impacts. Paired with the industry's first Cushioning Airbag Protective Case and a Fully Wrapped Curved Screen Protection Layer, these features work together to significantly reduce damage from impacts and scratches. With an IP65M certification, the device provides all-around protection thanks to its three-layer waterproof structure, allowing it to resist water exposure and function effectively even after being submerged. 

  

Equipped with the industry-leading 6600mAh Silicon-carbon Battery, the HONOR X9c delivers remarkable battery life, supporting seamless work, play, and entertainment throughout the day. This robust battery is enhanced with Armor-level Protective Coating and multi-point temperature monitoring, ensuring superior temperature resilience. Furthermore, its AI SuperPower Saving Mode enables users to continue making calls even when the battery level drops to a mere 2%.  

  

With a 6.78-inch OLED Display, the HONOR X9c prioritizes users' well-being by incorporating various eye protection elements like PWM Dimming, Circadian Night Display, and Dynamic Dimming. This device alleviates discomfort and eye strain for individuals engaging in prolonged device usage. Additionally, the display achieves a peak HDR brightness of 4000nits, ensuring exceptional visibility even in ultra-bright conditions.  

  

Furthermore, the HONOR X9c features a 108MP Ultra-sensing Camera with three portrait modes and 3x Lossless Zoom, enabling users to effortlessly capture captivating portraits at varying distances. Paired with AI photography features like HONOR AI Motion Sensing and AI Eraser, users can experience an intelligent photography journey like never before. 

 

Design, Pricing, and Availability 

Catering to users’ diverse style preferences, the HONOR X9c 5G is available in three captivating colorways: Titanium Purple, Titanium Black, and Jade Cyan. 

 

Priced at only Php 16,999, HONOR X9c 5G pre-order starts from January 10 to 24 where you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Box and a chance to win a BRAND-NEW ROLEX DATEJUST Watch (worth Php 600,000). What are you waiting for? Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9c_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9c_PR) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9c_PR). 

 

For more affordable payment options, the HONOR X9c 5G is also available through installments via TikTok Paylater with the same freebies until January 24, 2025. 

 

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Bayad Brings Real-Time Meralco Payments to 7-Eleven CLiQQ Kiosks

 Busy lifestyles have led a lot of Filipinos to rely on doing one-stop-shop errands at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Apart from buying goods, ready-to-eat cooked meals, and beverages, Meralco bills can also be paid at 7-Eleven CLiQQ Kiosks, available in over 4,100 branches nationwide.

Apart from enabling 24/7 payments at the ease of your own neighborhood, 7-Eleven has partnered with Bayad, accelerating Meralco payments from 24 hours to real-time or instantaneous posting. This will greatly benefit more Filipinos as it allows them to pay on time, and avoid overdue bills or disconnection notices.

Bayad, formerly Bayad Center and the pioneer brand in the outsourced bills payment collection service in the Philippines, is now a full-service fintech subsidiary of Meralco.

Apart from Meralco, Bayad has also activated Red Fiber, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and National Housing Authority (NHA) in the CLiQQ Kiosk’s biller network.

On top of these, Bayad is also expected to bring in more electric and water utility brands, government fees and contributions, tollway RFID, insurance, loans, tuition fees, and many others. Ultimately, Bayad’s partnership with 7-Eleven underscores modern convenience and digital innovation, fulfilling its shared mission of making daily lives easier for Filipinos.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Ferrer underscored,“Our world moved faster than we could have imagined. We at Bayad had to swiftly up our game in expanding our payment channels as we cater to the demand of providing more accessible and secured bills payment services for our kababayans who are noticeably always on the go and are becoming more and more tech-savvy. Our partnership with 7-Eleven allowed us this opportunity, highlighting our shared vision for financial consumer empowerment and driving economic growth in the country.”

7-Eleven Managing Director for Digital, Jose C. Ang, shared, “As we celebrate our 40^th year in the industry, this partnership with Bayad allows us to continue to stay true to 7-Eleven's thrust to continuously innovate modern convenience and enhance customer experience. We are excited to keep serving our communities and uphold our mission of being ‘the neighbor you can count on.”

For fintech and retail institutions like 7-Eleven that are interested in being a part of Bayad’s extensive payment channel network, you may send an email topartnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.