Top Up and Cash In: Metrobank Rewards You with up to PHP 10,000

Whenever you receive extra funds, where do you put it? Some choose to grow their savings and add it to their bank account. For others, it’s the perfect chance to indulge in their interests—whether it’s upgrading their gear for a new hobby or booking a ticket for that long-awaited trip to their dream travel destination—guilt-free. 

But what if you can do both?   

With Metrobank’s new offer, existing accountholders can put their money to work and grow their savings – allowing them to fund their interests! Introducing Metrobank’s Spark Your Interest promo: a rewarding opportunity to earn up to PHP 10,000 cash gift by simply depositing more to your Metrobank Personal Deposit account from now until May 15, 2025. 

Here's how the promo works:  

• If you opened your first Metrobank Personal Deposit (savings or checking) account on or before June 30, 2024, you qualify for this promo.  
• Add at least PHP 50,000 to your Personal Deposit (savings or checking) account and maintain that for at least six months to receive a cash gift ranging from PHP 1,500 to a generous PHP 10,000. Refer to the Cash Gift guide table to know how much cash rewards you earned. 
• Don’t forget! Before you top up your account, be sure to register to join the promo. Send an email to customercare@metrobank.com.ph or call (02) 88-700-700. Provide your contact details linked to your Metrobank app or Metrobank online account. 
• Wait for a confirmation SMS on your promo registration. 
• Once received, you can start topping up your funds and maintain them in your account for 6 months after your registration month. 

 Here’s the Cash Gift guide for Metrobank’s Spark Your Interest promo: 

 

Top up amount   (Must be maintained in your account for six months)	Cash Gift you'll receive
PHP 50,000 to PHP 99,999.99	PHP 1,500
PHP 100,000 to PHP 499,999.99	PHP 2,000
PHP 500,000 and up	PHP 10,000

 

Earning more money and growing your savings is that easy! So don't let your spare funds go to waste – take advantage of Metrobank's Spark Your Interest promo and turn your savings into rewards. It's a simple, secure, and effective way to achieve your financial goals.  

To learn more about this new offer, visit https://www.metrobank.com.ph/promos/spark-your-interest. 

Egg-citing Easter Adventures for the Whole Family at Solaire

Solaire Resort Entertainment City offers an adventurous and exciting Easter Sunday celebration for the entire family on April 20. 

The day starts with a Sunday mass at 10AM in the Grand Ballroom followed by a range of interactive activities with luxurious brunch buffets for everyone to enjoy. With fun-filled events like Easter egg hunts, bunny hopscotch races, face painting, and egg decorating, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

Earn special discounts and Easter goodie bags when you accomplish all activities with the family. The Grand Ballroom holds easter egg hunting for all ages and bouncy inflatables to enjoy. At the Sky Tower area, kids can pick their own eggs to decorate at Waterside, complete a carrot toss at Oasis, and hop through Easter-patterned squares for a fun hopscotch activity at Fresh. 

At the Theatre Cafe, kids can enjoy cookies and cupcake decorating, face painting, balloon sculpting, and enhance their creativity through a coloring mural. You might just also catchEaster Bunny hopping around—so, snap a picture with him and your whole family!

 

Indulge in an exquisite Easter brunch buffet at Finestra, Red Lantern, and Yakumi. Finestra offers casatiello, a ham and cheese savory cake together with herbs risotto, poached salmon,and chocolate eggs. Enjoy unlimited flutes of champagne, a seafood tower served directly at your table, a cold cuts station, a roast beef station by the kitchen counter, and luxurious desserts from a rich mille-feuille, macarons, tartalettes, homemade gelato, and more!

 

Eat all you can at Red Lantern with a dim sum buffet featuring crystal skin lobster dumplings, crispy deep-fried cheese and prawn spring rolls, baked signature black pepper wagyu beef tart,steamed Teochew dumpling, and more. At Yakumi, prepare for a sumptuous feast with eight live stations to choose from. Seafood lovers can enjoy grilled Boston lobster, scallops, blue marlin, prawns, and mackerel in the teppanyaki live station. You can also choose from a fine selection of meats like Kinross lamb chops, US ribeye steak, and Japanese sausage.

 

For an Easter-inspired afternoon tea, delight in a wide array of tea sandwiches, delectable pastries and freshly baked scones at Oasis Garden Café. These include a savory chorizo and egg mousse tea sandwich, an orange cinnamon sable, Cheshire Pork Pie with glazed apple, and more. Enjoy it all with a pot of tea, an easter-inspired mocktail or sparkling wine, and freshly brewed coffee.

 

Complete your Easter celebration by booking a Deluxe Room with a city or garden view for only Php 10,500 nett until April 18. Book now by calling 8888-8888 or email reservations@solaireresort.com for a joyful Easter at Solaire Resort Entertainment City.

 

DigiPlus Shines at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards with Multiple Gold Honors

 DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus), the pioneer in digital entertainment in the Philippines and the company behind leading gaming brands such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, won seven honors –  including five coveted gold awards – at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. This milestone places DigiPlus among the most awarded companies in the region this year, spotlighting its strategic growth and transformative impact across digital entertainment, social development, and investor relations. 

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only business awards program that recognizes innovation across all 29 markets in the region. Widely regarded as the world’s premier business awards, the Stevie Awards represent a prestigious recognition of business excellence. 

 

DigiPlus bagged five Gold Stevies for ‘Innovative Achievement in Growth’, ‘Innovation in Investor Relations’, ‘Excellence in Social Impact Companies’, ‘Innovation in Annual Reports’, and ‘Innovation in Corporate Websites’. The company also clinched Silver and Bronze Stevies for ‘Achievement in Product Innovation’ and ‘Innovation in Brand Renovation’ respectively. 

 

At the core of these wins is DigiPlus’ commitment to innovation and digital transformation. From redefining the player experience through localized and immersive content, to launching a refreshed brand identity that resonates with a more connected and tech-savvy user base, DigiPlus has embraced a future-forward mindset. The company’s calculated investments in big data, cutting-edge technologies, and stakeholder engagement have not only fueled business growth, but also opened inclusive pathways to digital participation through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation. 

 

“This momentous victory at the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards affirms DigiPlus’ emergence as a true powerhouse of innovation and progress, reshaping industry boundaries and redefining digital consumer engagement on a global scale,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. "Through consistent growth and business performance, DigiPlus reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating long-term value.”

 

Winning entries in the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards undergo a rigorous, multi-layered evaluation by an esteemed panel of judges composed of business and industry leaders across the region. "The 12th Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received an impressive array of outstanding entries," said Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie Awards. "This year’s winners have clearly shown their dedication to innovation, and we commend their resilience and imaginative efforts.”

 

BUM Black Army launches its latest collection “Outland Explorer”

BUM Black Army proudly announces the launch of its latest collection, “Outland Explorer”—a dynamic fusion of utilitarian fashion, earth tones, and streetwear aesthetics designed for modern urban adventurers. 

Built for those who seek both style and functionality, BUM Black Army Outland Explorer offers versatile pieces that seamlessly adapt to city life and beyond. 

This latest drop redefines streetwear with modular designs that cater to movement, convenience, and innovation.

Function Meets Style: 

Utilitarian Pieces for Every JourneyThe Outland Explorer collection introduces a new era of fashion-forward adaptability. 

Designed for those who are always on the move, these functional pieces provide the ultimate blend of practicality and edgy street style.

Detachable Pants – These innovative pants easily transform into shorts, offering flexibility for changing environments and temperatures.

Convertible Shorts with Detachable Pockets – A first in urban fashion, these pockets detach and convert into a stylish sling bag, ensuring a hands-free and hassle-free experience.

Jackets & Cargo Joggers – Featuring multiple pockets and functional zippers, these pieces provide ample storage without compromising on style.

Earth Tones & Streetwear Vibes

Inspired by nature and the cityscape, the “Outland Explorer” collection embraces earthy hues like olive, sand, and charcoal ensuring a rugged yet modern aesthetic that suits both casual explorers and trendsetters.

The Outland Explorer collection is now available online at https://bumblackarmy.com, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. 

In stores at BUM Black Army boutiques and leading department stores nationwide Join the movement.

Explore, adapt, and redefine urban adventure with Outland Explorer! #BUMBlackArmy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6NCBCMhKsM

HONOR officially unveiled its most affordable line-up – the HONOR X5b and X5b Plus!

Global technology brand HONOR officially unveiled its most affordable line-up with the leading eCommerce platform Lazada Philippines – the HONOR X5b and X5b Plus. Shoppers can get HONOR X5b exclusively on Lazada this coming 4.4 Summer SuliTipid Sale (https://bit.ly/HONORxLazada44SummerSuliTipid) for only Php 3,499! 

The event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between HONOR and Lazada, solidifying their collaboration to bring innovative technology to Filipino consumers. The partnership aims to leverage Lazada’s expansive reach and HONOR’s cutting-edge products to deliver an exceptional shopping experience. 

"At Lazada, we're committed to offering Filipinos something that's Always Better. We are very proud of our continued partnership with HONOR and this exclusive launch of the HONOR X5b, offering the market a high-quality product at a great price," said Alvin Ching, Head of Seller Operations at Lazada Philippines. 

“Our collaboration with Lazada underscores our shared vision of making advanced technology accessible to everyone. The HONOR X5b is a testament to our commitment to providing stylish, reliable, and high-performing devices for Filipinos,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines. 

Exclusive Availability on Lazada 

The HONOR X5b is available exclusively on Lazada, further cementing the platform’s reputation as a hub for exclusive deals and innovative products. This partnership ensures that customers can enjoy a seamless shopping experience coupled with the reliability of HONOR’s advanced technology. 

HONOR X5b: Stylish and High-Performing at an Affordable Price 

Designed for budget-conscious users, the HONOR X5b offers an immersive 6.56-inch display with a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals. It also boasts a 50MP AI-enhanced camera, allowing users to capture stunning photos with incredible detail. The device is powered by a long-lasting 5100mAh battery, ensuring all-day performance, while its sleek design makes it an elegant and practical choice for everyday use. HONOR X5b Plus: Enhanced Performance and Premium Features 

Complementing the X5b, the HONOR X5b Plus offers a more powerful experience with enhanced features. It retains stylish design and reliable battery life while incorporating additional performance upgrades, making it ideal for users who need a more robust smartphone experience. The X5b Plus is built for those who want an optimized blend of efficiency, power, and photography capabilities in an accessible package. 

Availability and Pricing 

The HONOR X5b is available exclusively on Lazada 4.4 for a special price of PHP 3,499 (discounted from PHP 4,199) until April 4 only. It comes in Midnight Black and Ocean Blue color options. To celebrate the launch, customers can enjoy special discounts, Lazada vouchers, and free returns for a seamless shopping experience. 

The HONOR X5b Plus is available at an SRP of PHP 4,999 in Midnight Black and Ocean Blue color options. Customers can purchase it online through Lazada, as well as in HONOR Experience Stores and authorized retail partners nationwide. 

For more information on the HONOR X5b, X5b Plus, and other exciting offers, visit Lazada’s website (https://bit.ly/HONORxLazada44SummerSuliTipid)

or download the app. Stay updated on the latest from HONOR by following their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

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

realme 14 Pro Review: The Middle Child That Might Just Be the Smartest Pick

They say middle children have it rough. Not quite the trailblazing firstborn, and not quite the adored youngest either. Often overlooked, perpetually compared, and constantly needing to prove themselves. In tech, the same dynamic applies. Between the flashy flagship and the budget-friendly base model, the mid-tier often ends up as the afterthought. But what if the middle child... outsmarts them all?

Enter the realme 14 Pro 5G, wedged between the value-focused realme 14 and the camera-obsessed realme 14 Pro+. It might not grab headlines like its siblings, but after spending a full month using it as our daily driver, we’re convinced this quiet contender is built with balance, brains, and a surprising amount of boldness.

Design: Pearl White with a Cool Twist

Our unit came in the stunning Pearl White variant—clean, classy, and anything but plain. But here's the twist: it's also thermochromic. When exposed to temperatures below 16°C, the back panel shifts to a soft blue hue, making it feel like you’ve got two phones in one. While the effect gradually softens with extended use, it still delivers a satisfying surprise when you step into cooler environments.

Just like a middle child trying to stand out in a crowd, this design subtly demands attention without screaming for it. Beyond the visual trickery, the build itself is just as impressive. Despite housing a massive 6000mAh battery, the phone maintains a sleek profile at 7.99mm, making it one of the slimmest in its class. Rated IP69/IP68/IP66, it’s practically overqualified when it comes to water and dust resistance—perfect for weekend hikes, pool days, or even just peace of mind during daily commutes.

Display & Audio: So Bright It’s Practically Showing Off

realme equipped the 14 Pro with a 6.77-inch curved OLED display that hits a jaw-dropping 4500 nits peak brightness. Outdoor visibility? No problem. HDR content? Gorgeous. Whether you're doomscrolling at the beach or watching a sunset timelapse, this screen refuses to be outshone—literally.

And like every middle sibling who wants to be seen, this display makes itself known with 120Hz refresh rate fluidity and a curved premium finish. The curved edges lend a high-end feel that's rarely seen in this price segment, giving the 14 Pro its moment in the spotlight.

The audio experience is decent, thanks to stereo speakers with clear mids and decent low-end performance. It’s not the loudest in the family, but it still holds its own—reliable and consistent, much like the role middle children often take on.

Camera: The Unexpected Powerhouse

This is where the realme 14 Pro flips the middle-child script entirely.

Anchored by a 50MP Sony OIS camera, it brings flagship-level stability and detail to a midrange price. What makes it unique, though, is the dedicated Underwater Mode—yes, it’s not just IP-rated for fun. With a fully functional underwater photography system (up to 2 meters for 30 minutes), you can shoot poolside or at waterfalls without touchscreen input, using only physical buttons.

Sample Shots: 

Middle children often get labeled as adaptable, and this phone is exactly that—ready for any shooting condition, whether it's low light, high contrast, or under the water. Paired with the MagicGlow Triple Flash, night photography is clearer and more stylized than you’d expect. You also get AI Ultra Clarity 2.0, AI Snap Mode, and AI Eraser 2.0 for next-level creative control. The 16MP selfie cam is serviceable—nothing too fancy, but skin tones come out natural, and detail holds up in good light.

Performance & Battery: Big Power in a Cool Package

Under the hood is the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Energy, built on a 4nm process. Don’t let the ‘Energy’ branding fool you—it clocks in at 2.5GHz and scores over 750,000 on AnTuTu, putting it squarely in upper midrange territory.

Gaming? No stutters, even on Mobile Legends or Honor of Kings running at 120 FPS. It also helps that the phone has a 6000mm² vapor chamber cooling system, which keeps temps in check even during long sessions.

And that massive 6000mAh battery? It delivers. Expect over 17 hours of video playback or a full day and a half of moderate use. When you need a top-up, the 45W SUPERVOOC charging gets you to 50% in 36 minutes, 100% in under an hour. Plus, realme guarantees 80% battery health after 1,600 charge cycles, which is basically 4 years of daily use.

Once again, the middle sibling impresses—not by being the loudest or flashiest, but by being the most dependable.

Software & Extras: Clean, Capable, and Feature-Rich

Running realme UI 6.0 on Android 14, the software experience is smooth and relatively bloat-free. You get a few unique features like:

• Live Photos, which turn stills into mini clips

• Customizable flash filters like Déjà Vu and Retro

• Smart Sidebar, Split Screen, and FlexDrop multitasking

While it’s not stock Android, it stays close enough—keeping animations fluid and features practical without being overwhelming.

Security is handled by an under-display fingerprint scanner, which is fast and accurate. Connectivity-wise, you’ve got 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC. No headphone jack, but at this point, that's no shocker.

Like a good middle child, the software doesn't overcomplicate things. It just works.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Buy Hiding in Plain Sight

So where does the realme 14 Pro land?

Not as camera-obsessed as the Pro+, and not as budget-friendly as the base model. But in terms of balance—between power, photography, durability, and daily usability—it might just be the smartest choice in the lineup.

It’s the quiet achiever. The sibling that doesn’t shout for attention but consistently delivers where it matters. If you’re the kind of user who needs a dependable daily driver with real camera chops, great battery, and rugged versatility—all without breaking the bank—the realme 14 Pro isn’t just the middle child.

It’s the middle genius—lowkey brilliant, highkey worth it.