Leading smart devices provider in the country, HONOR Philippines officially launched the toughest phone, HONOR X9b 5G, in the market for only Php 16,999! The latest addition to its acclaimed X Series line-up was seen to have combined exceptional display quality, expansive photography capabilities and enhanced battery and hardware performance, the HONOR X9b 5G sets a new benchmark for mid-range smartphones in the industry.

“We are very excited to finally introduce the HONOR X9b 5G, the toughest phone that embodies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering an exceptional user experience,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng. “From the exceptional display and powerful camera system to the impressive durability and outstanding hardware performance, the HONOR X9b 5G truly represents our dedication to creating a new intelligent world for everyone.”

Industry-leading Durability Powered by Ultra-bounce Anti-drop Display

Showcasing an industry-leading drop resistance and durability, the HONOR X9b 5G’s display incorporates the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop technology. Certified by SGS’s Five Star Overall Drop Resistance, the HONOR Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display utilizes advanced cushioning technology using newly developed materials, which increases the shock absorption capacity by up to 1.2 times, ensuring utmost durability even when subject to drops from a height of 1.5 meters and all angles.

Human-centric Visual Excellence

Equipped with a remarkable 6.78-inch AMOLED Curved Display, the HONOR X9b 5G supports 1.5K ultra-clear resolution, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and up to 1.07 billion colors, offering ultra-clear visuals with sharp details and vibrant colors. As a testament to HONOR's commitment to human-centric technology, the HONOR X9b 5G offers an array of eye protection features, including 1920Hz PWM Dimming, Low Blue Light, Dynamic Dimming, and Circadian Night Display, cater to the needs of today’s always-on generation who spend long hours in front of screens.

Triple Camera System for Captivating Photography

The HONOR X9b 5G boasts a triple camera system consisting of a 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera, a 5MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a 2MP Macro Camera. The 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera comes with a large 1/1.67-inch sensor and a large f/1.75 aperture, allowing it to capture more light and produce images with vivid clarity. The camera also offers high optical quality with 3X zoom and an outstanding motion capture engine, ensuring the HONOR X9b 5G produces clear snapshots with fascinating detail.

In addition to the main camera, the 5MP Ultra-Wide Camera offers a 110° field of view, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes, group shots, or architectural marvels. The HONOR X9b 5G also features a 2MP Macro Camera with 4cm minimum focus length, enabling users to capture close-up shots with stunning clarity and sharp details.

Flagship Performance for Unmatched Productivity

The HONOR X9b 5G comes with a durable and long-lasting 5800mAh battery that can power the device for 3 days on a single charge, providing users with reliable performance and a worry-free experience. Additionally, the battery exhibits superb durability, maintaining 80% of its capacity after undergoing 1,000 charge cycles, making it one of the most robust device batteries in the market.

Powered by the Qualcomm® Snapdragon® 6 Gen 1 Mobile Platform, the HONOR X9b 5G delivers excellent flagship capabilities with a 35% increase in GPU performance and a 40% increase in CPU efficiency, always enabling seamless productivity and entertainment. Running the latest MagicOS 7.2 based on Android 13, the HONOR X9b 5G provides access to a range of upgraded and customized features, such as the HONOR Docs Suite, enabling a more intelligent and convenient experience of remote working.

Design, Pricing, and Availability

The HONOR X9b 5G boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic design with meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite detail and is available for only Php 16,999 in three colorways – Sunrise Orange, Emerald Green, and Midnight Black.

Pre-order starts from January 12 to 19, 2024 where you can get a FREE HONOR Gift Box and HONOR Choice X5 Earbuds worth Php 4,000 at select HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_X9b_PressRelease), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9b_PressRelease), and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_X9b_PressRelease).

Good news for HONOR Fans! You can get your own HONOR X9b 5G with Home Credit and Skyro for 0% interest! Also for Globe Postpaid Subscribers, you can apply or upgrade with GPlan 1299 to enjoy an Unli All-net Calls and Text and 8GB All-access Data for a one-time cash out of Php 3,300 only! Get it online or head over now to any Globe physical store!

For more information and 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/.

Smart subscribers have one more reason to celebrate the new year as mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) to bring more exclusive rewards to subscribers with their new UnionBank Credit Card.

Under this exciting partnership, qualified Smart Prepaid subscribers will receive a P2,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card, while qualified Smart Postpaid and Smart Infinity subscribers will receive a P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards, UnionBank Miles+, or UnionBank Reserve Credit Card.

Eligible subscribers can make the most of this exclusive Welcome Gift as they shop at their favorite stores or their go-to online shopping apps and e-commerce platforms. Smart subscribers can learn more about the perfect UnionBank Credit Card that suits their lifestyle at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift/.

How to redeem your exclusive Welcome Gift from Smart and UnionBank

Smart Prepaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P2,000 Welcome Gift by linking their UnionBank Rewards Credit Card to GigaPay on the Smart App, and then purchasing PowerAll 99 on the Smart App.

On the other hand, Smart Postpaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift by simply enrolling their Smart Postpaid account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website.

Aside from this exclusive Welcome Gift, UnionBank Rewards cardholders may also enjoy No Annual Fees Forever with an accumulated spend worth P20,000 within 60 days of card approval.

UnionBank Miles+ and UnionBank Reserve for Smart Infinity members

Meanwhile, Smart Infinity members on Plan 3500 may get their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card also gives users a chance to redeem a Welcome Gift of 30,000 never-expiring miles with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

In addition, Smart Infinity members on Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 may also receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Reserve Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. Application to UnionBank Reserve Credit Card is by invite only and Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 members are automatically eligible to apply.

On top of this Welcome Gift, UnionBank Reserve cardholders may also redeem as much as P18,000 worth of eGift from Giftaway merchants with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

This exclusive promo will run until February 29, 2024.

Smart’s collaboration with UnionBank is part of its thrust to bring exclusive rewards and epic lifestyle treats to the fingertips of subscribers on top of empowering them with the best mobile network experience possible. Learn more about the latest treat from Smart and UnionBank at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift .

Smart subscribers have one more reason to celebrate the new year as mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) to bring more exclusive rewards to subscribers with their new UnionBank Credit Card.

Under this exciting partnership, qualified Smart Prepaid subscribers will receive a P2,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card, while qualified Smart Postpaid and Smart Infinity subscribers will receive a P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards, UnionBank Miles+, or UnionBank Reserve Credit Card.

Eligible subscribers can make the most of this exclusive Welcome Gift as they shop at their favorite stores or their go-to online shopping apps and e-commerce platforms. Smart subscribers can learn more about the perfect UnionBank Credit Card that suits their lifestyle at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift/.

How to redeem your exclusive Welcome Gift from Smart and UnionBank

Smart Prepaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P2,000 Welcome Gift by linking their UnionBank Rewards Credit Card to GigaPay on the Smart App, and then purchasing PowerAll 99 on the Smart App.

On the other hand, Smart Postpaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift by simply enrolling their Smart Postpaid account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website.

Aside from this exclusive Welcome Gift, UnionBank Rewards cardholders may also enjoy No Annual Fees Forever with an accumulated spend worth P20,000 within 60 days of card approval.

UnionBank Miles+ and UnionBank Reserve for Smart Infinity members

Meanwhile, Smart Infinity members on Plan 3500 may get their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card also gives users a chance to redeem a Welcome Gift of 30,000 never-expiring miles with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

In addition, Smart Infinity members on Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 may also receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Reserve Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. Application to UnionBank Reserve Credit Card is by invite only and Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 members are automatically eligible to apply.

On top of this Welcome Gift, UnionBank Reserve cardholders may also redeem as much as P18,000 worth of eGift from Giftaway merchants with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

This exclusive promo will run until February 29, 2024.

Smart’s collaboration with UnionBank is part of its thrust to bring exclusive rewards and epic lifestyle treats to the fingertips of subscribers on top of empowering them with the best mobile network experience possible. Learn more about the latest treat from Smart and UnionBank at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift .

Smart subscribers have one more reason to celebrate the new year as mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) to bring more exclusive rewards to subscribers with their new UnionBank Credit Card.

Under this exciting partnership, qualified Smart Prepaid subscribers will receive a P2,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card, while qualified Smart Postpaid and Smart Infinity subscribers will receive a P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Rewards, UnionBank Miles+, or UnionBank Reserve Credit Card.

Eligible subscribers can make the most of this exclusive Welcome Gift as they shop at their favorite stores or their go-to online shopping apps and e-commerce platforms. Smart subscribers can learn more about the perfect UnionBank Credit Card that suits their lifestyle at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift/.

How to redeem your exclusive Welcome Gift from Smart and UnionBank

Smart Prepaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P2,000 Welcome Gift by linking their UnionBank Rewards Credit Card to GigaPay on the Smart App, and then purchasing PowerAll 99 on the Smart App.

On the other hand, Smart Postpaid subscribers with a new UnionBank Rewards Credit Card may receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift by simply enrolling their Smart Postpaid account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website.

Aside from this exclusive Welcome Gift, UnionBank Rewards cardholders may also enjoy No Annual Fees Forever with an accumulated spend worth P20,000 within 60 days of card approval.

UnionBank Miles+ and UnionBank Reserve for Smart Infinity members

Meanwhile, Smart Infinity members on Plan 3500 may get their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. UnionBank Miles+ Credit Card also gives users a chance to redeem a Welcome Gift of 30,000 never-expiring miles with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

In addition, Smart Infinity members on Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 may also receive their P5,000 Welcome Gift with their new UnionBank Reserve Credit Card by simply enrolling their Smart Infinity account to the Auto Bills Payment on UnionBank’s website. Application to UnionBank Reserve Credit Card is by invite only and Plan 5000 and Plan 8000 members are automatically eligible to apply.

On top of this Welcome Gift, UnionBank Reserve cardholders may also redeem as much as P18,000 worth of eGift from Giftaway merchants with an accumulated spend of P40,000 within 60 days of card approval.

This exclusive promo will run until February 29, 2024.

Smart’s collaboration with UnionBank is part of its thrust to bring exclusive rewards and epic lifestyle treats to the fingertips of subscribers on top of empowering them with the best mobile network experience possible. Learn more about the latest treat from Smart and UnionBank at https://smart.com.ph/Pages/ubwelcomegift .

As we step into the new year, it's the perfect time to map out your adventures for 2024. If 2023 was all about Revenge Travel to make up for lost time, 2024 is being hailed as the year for more personal travels. Booking.com's Travel Predictions for 2024 suggest a shift towards journeys motivated by a quest for deeper connections and self-discovery.

If you’re already planning your travels to find love or find yourself and need a little inspiration on where to go, here are some Filipino films that not only brought compelling stories of love but also highlighted how the destination itself (and the journey of getting there) is sometimes all that one needs to find what they’re looking for.

“Traveling is all about personal experiences. Whether you're with friends or going solo, there's always something special you discover along the way, giving you unique moments and memories. As a regional insurtech, we at Igloo, are all about providing people-first insurance services and making sure everyone can have those amazing experiences without dealing with the hassles that can mess up trips. This is why we created Travel Master, because we want to provide our travelers a stress-free experience and let them enjoy the best adventures without any interruptions,” said Mario Berta, Igloo Philippines Country Manager.

Developed in collaboration with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master offers coverage for travelers, encompassing personal accidents, flight delays, lost luggage, emergency medical treatment, hospital cash allowance, travel inconvenience benefits, and protection against COVID-19.

To get Travel Master coverage, just go to the GInsure page in your GCash app. Choose Travel and select Travel Master. Fill out the form with your travel info, and it'll quickly show you the coverage benefits and the premium cost. Once that's done, you're good to go.

Whether you're heading out locally or internationally, Travel Master is there for you, making it a flexible and essential travel companion wherever your journey takes you.

Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte - Broken Hearts Trip (2023)

Maira-ira beach, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte/ Source: Blue Lagoon Inn and Restaurant, Klook

One of the entries for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), Broken Hearts Trip, is a story about five LGBTQ individuals who are given the chance to heal from their heartbreaks as they journey across the Philippines. One of the spots they explored is Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, often referred to as the "Boracay of the North." Accessible via land and air, Pagudpud is famed for its stunning beaches, including Maira-ira (commonly known as Blue Lagoon), Saud, and Pansian. These beaches boast white sands and emerald waters, making them an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude with their thoughts or desiring more intimate moments with loved ones as unlike other Filipino beach destinations, Pagudpud tends to be less crowded, offering a tranquil escape.

Fujiyoshida City, Japan – When I Met You in Tokyo (2023)

Chureito Pagoda, Fujiyoshida City, Japan/ Source: Japan Guide

Another entry from this year’s MMFF brings us not only a tale of finding love at the most unexpected times but finding love in some of the most beautiful places in the world. In When I Met You in Tokyo, two old hearts–one battered and bruised and one lonely and seeking comfort–find each other in Tokyo. While much of the story took place in the Japanese capital, the film also took its audience to Fujiyoshida City and the famous Chureito Pagoda, basking in the majestic view of Mount Fuji. A 2-hour train ride from Tokyo, the city offers spectacular views of the mountain. The best time to visit is either during the cherry blossom season in mid-April or in the first half of November to experience the changing colors of autumn. Here, like the stars of When I Met You in Tokyo, you may be able to find healing from past hurts and discover new beginnings against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful sights in the world.

Sagada, Mountain Province - Write About Love (2019)

Sagada, Mountain Province/ Source: Gem Muzones, Guide to the Philippines

In Write About Love, an aspiring writer sought help from a veteran yet disillusioned indie film writer to complete an unfinished script for a love story. Their collaboration eventually led them to a pilgrimage to Sagada, where upon seeing the magnificent sunset and sea of clouds, allowed the two writers to reconcile their personal issues and figure out the ending for their own love stories. For travellers who want a little more adventure and don’t mind putting in the work just to experience breathtaking views, there’s Sagada. A small town in the mountains of Mountain Province, Sagada requires more than a half day’s ride from Manila and another couple of hours trekking to get to the top of Marlboro Hills, the highest point of the town and provides an unobstructed view of sunrise and a sea of clouds.

San Juan, La Union - I’m Drunk I Love You (2017)

San Juan Beach, La Union/ Source: La Union Tayo.com.ph

A beloved romantic drama film, I’m Drunk I Love You is all about taking the chance before it’s too late. The movie revolves around two college best friends who embarked on a final road trip to San Juan, La Union, aiming to determine if their bond will remain platonic or evolve into something more. While La Union, also known as Elyu, has earned its reputation as one of the Philippines' top surfing spots, "I'm Drunk I Love You" shines a spotlight on the town's laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere. Here, bars resonate with reggae beats, serve delectable food, and are adorned with eclectic decorations reflecting both local and foreign influences.

Beyond the shoreline (surprising as it may sound), you can explore more of La Union's natural beauty by trekking to the impressive 40-feet high Tangadan Falls. With its unique blend of attractions, it's no wonder La Union has become a go-to destination, providing a comforting retreat for many travelers.

Barcelona, Spain - Barcelona: A Love Untold (2016)

Park Güell, Barcelona/ Source: Getty Images, Conde Nast Traveler

Set within the romantic and vibrant city that is Barcelona, Barcelona: A Love Untold is about two people each carrying their own emotional baggage, viewing the city as either a distraction or a chance for a fresh start. Amid the colorful ambiance of the capital of Catalonia, it becomes the setting for two people seeking different things but irresistibly drawn to each other. With Barcelona’s vibrance, it's no wonder that so many people come to immerse themselves in its rich culture. From the stunning mosaics of Park Güell to the timeless art at the Picasso Museum, there's an abundance of beauty to explore and enjoy. Barcelona is not just a city to appreciate art and culture; it's also an ideal place to discover love or realize that, like Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, you're also a beautiful work-in-progress.

Learn more about Travel Master by visiting the GCash GInsure Marketplace and ensure that your trips to find love or find yourself are seamless and hassle-free.

Global technology brand HONOR and Porsche Design unveiled the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR in Shanghai, China. Being the thinnest inward foldable phone in the market reflecting the expertise of the respective partner, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR sets the stage for a future of innovation and design.

This momentous partnership between HONOR and Porsche Design is another best practice for HONOR, as a global and premium brand, to bring collective innovations to consumers around the world. As George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co., Ltd., stated, "United by a shared pursuit of excellence, HONOR and Porsche Design will co-design the next generation of smart devices, combining human-centric technology and functional design to create exciting products for global consumers."

“From day one of this extraordinary partnership, we have been eagerly awaiting the reveal of our first jointly developed smartphone. At Porsche Design, we want to bring the unique Porsche spirit and values to life through our products. Anyone who buys a Porsche Design item becomes part of the global Porsche family. Our goal is to transport this emotion as well as the progressive functionality, cutting-edge technology, and the unique design language to customers around the globe,” says Stefan Buescher, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Lifestyle Group.

Introducing the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR

Debuting as the first innovation where HONOR’s human-centric approach meets the purist, functional aesthetics of Porsche Design, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR features a bold design inspired by motorsports. The flyline of the backside of the industry-leading foldable smartphone is intricately reminiscent of the hood of a Porsche 911. The improved grip provides a sportscar experience in the user’s palm. The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR comes in the Porsche car color Agate Grey.

Ultra-thin foldable device with Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield

In pursuit of convenient portability, HONOR and Porsche Design have jointly refined the choice of materials in the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR to create a pioneering device that weighs only 234g and is just 9.9mm thick. Incorporating the industry’s first Anti-scratch NanoCrystal Shield, the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR races ahead of the pack with improvements in display durability, providing enhanced protection to the device. The tenfold improved scratch resistance and the hardness rating of over seven on the Mohs scale - a scale which indicates the degree of strength of a material - ensures superior resistance to damages.

Exceptional Display for Human-centric Visual Experience

The PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR has a stunning foldable OLED LTPO display that offers an unprecedented visual experience. With support for 1.07 billion colors, the screen delivers vivid, accurate visuals that captivate and immerse users. As a testament to HONOR’s commitment to human-centric technology, the device incorporates eye protection features such as 3840Hz PWM Dimming, Dynamic Dimming and Circadian Night Display, which reduce fatigue of the eyes, thus, catering to the needs of heavy users.

To know more about the complete features of the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR, you may visit: https://www.hihonor.com/global/phones/honor-magic-v2-rsr-porsche-design/ and head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms for exciting announcements: 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/.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), in partnership with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST) leads the Filipino community to a more sustainable lifestyle with the launch of the SariCycle Program through an event held in Quezon City (QC) Hall grounds attended by 150 sari-sari store owners based in Quezon City.

The flagship program is poised to trailblaze in Quezon City, in collaboration with the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department and the Gender and Development Council Office of the QC local government unit.

The event was hosted by DJ Mama Emma of Barangay LS 97.1, attended by Ms. Isabelita Mercado BEST President, Mr. Jan Vincent Mercado, BEST Senior Vice President, Mr. Koichi Ozaki, APC President, and Honorable Mayor Joy Belmonte who gave their respective messages during the program boosting the morale of the sari-sari store owners attendees.

The SariCycle program is a product of APC’s commitment to create shared value that the Filipino people can benefit from, most especially the communities who continue to be key players in the success of the Ajinomoto brand in enhancing the quality of life of its consumers through its innovative products.

“With the SariCycle Program, we aim not only to reduce and manage plastic waste but also support the very communities that have been our loyal partners and consumers for more than 65 years now.” shared by APC Chief Sustainability Officer Ernie Carlos.

With SariCycle, sari-sari stores and market stalls will be given the opportunity to participate in an incentivized or reward system driven program that aims to manage plastic waste through a plastic collection system.

“The sari sari and market stall owners or the Sari Cyclers as we call them will receive environmental points for the flexible plastics collected. There will be additional points for Ajinomoto products collected. These points can be redeemed to purchase basic necessities in partner establishments.” Further explained by E. Carlos.

In fact, the inclusive plastic collection program will also encourage patrons of the sari-sari stores to own their share in helping build a sustainable community for themselves, which will later inspire neighboring communities as well to take action in achieving a zero-waste environment.

SariCycle is a simple, feasible, and effective program that ultimately elevates the lives of the Filipinos beginning in specific communities with its pilot launching. With the launch event being the first step into this program, the following steps will include plastic segregation from the collected plastic waste such as plastic sachets, from Ajinomoto brand products. The collected plastic waste will then be deposited in different collection points all over Quezon City with corresponding Environmental Points (EP) depending on the weight of the collected plastic waste.

The SariCycle Program aims to reach more cities and support hundreds and thousands more sari-sari store and market stall owners. APC, together with BEST, and the Quezon City Local Government are optimistic that this is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to push for a Zero-Waste environment that takes on an inclusive approach in realizing avenues and new platforms to champion sustainable development and contribute to the circular economy while building more sustainable communities.

As the first batch of SariCyclers in Quezon City take on the pioneering participant roles for the SariCycle program, APC is more than positive that the neighboring cities in Metro Manila will also be as excited as they are to achieving more feats in taking care of the environment as they continue to promote better quality of life.

HONOR Philippines just made the highly anticipated grand launch of HONOR X9b 5G more exciting! Fans are more than ecstatic as Parokya ni Edgar Vocalist Chito Miranda was confirmed to grace the unveiling of the toughest phone on January 12, 2024. You can catch it live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/FB_X9b_Pressrelease at exactly 7PM!

“We are very happy to announce that Chito Miranda, Parokya Ni Edgar’s vocalist will perform during the launch of our HONOR X9b 5G together with Miss Charm Philippines and HONOR Star Pauline Amelincx as the host. This is just one of our suprises, there’s more to watch out for so stay tuned,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR X9b 5G is a marvel of modern design and technology. Its golden curvature strikes the perfect balance between aesthetic appeal and user comfort, making it an absolute pleasure to hold. Despite its premium features, the HONOR X9b is surprisingly light and thin, weighing just 185g with a width of 7.98mm. In addition, the triple camera system is meticulously crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship. The body is encased in vegan leather, providing a delicate and skin-friendly touch. The HONOR X9b 5G is more than just a smartphone, it is a statement of style and sophistication.

Don't dare to miss out the unveiling of #TheToughestPhone in the market and the performance of Chito Miranda on January 12, 2024 at 7:00 PM via Facebook Live: https://bit.ly/FB_X9b_Pressrelease.

For more information and 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/.

In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

With the commitment to holistically support its partner drivers, leading on-demand delivery platform Lalamove Philippines welcomes 2024 with a reward to thousands of delivery drivers for their hard work over the holidays through the “Ready, Set, Biyahe: Partner Driver Health Fair Series” in Luzon and Cebu.

Existing and aspiring partner drivers of Lalamove in Mega Manila are free to join in the Ready, Set, Biyahe Partner Driver Health Fair series, with the first stop to be held on January 20, 2024 at the Lalamove QC Hub in 518-C, A. Bonifacio Avenue, San Jose, Quezon City. The next leg will be on January 27, 2024 at the Lalamove Hub in Pampanga at Gruppo del Diamante Magalang, Ave., Angeles, Pampanga, while the final event will be on February 4, 2024 in Cebu. Activities in the three locations start at 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

“We want to kickstart the year by rewarding our dedicated partner drivers with our first-ever Partner Driver Health Fair. All year round, Lalamove partner drivers enjoy health benefits from our Panalomove program, but through the Health Fair, we’re bringing these on-ground with more health and wellness treats for them,” said Djon Nacario, Managing Director of Lalamove Philippines.

Ready, Set, Biyahe Partner Driver Health Fair Benefits

For a “biyahe-ready” 2024, all active Lalamove delivery drivers will get access to free health consultations in partnership with Doctor Anywhere, which include blood pressure and blood sugar check-ups. Partner drivers can also get free eye check-ups, thanks to Executive Optical partnership with the on-demand delivery app.

Lalamove has also teamed up with InvestED, a leading student loan provider in the Philippines, to offer free well-being workshops about stress management and budgeting.

Pag-IBIG will also be readily available on the ground to give partner drivers a more convenient way to access the government agency’s perks such as a fast collection of the Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card and easily assist them with their Pag-IBIG multipurpose loan applications.

Early bird attendees can also expect tons of freebies from Petron, GCash, Prestone, Organique, and so much more.

How to Join the 2024 Partner Driver Health Fair

Lalamove partner drivers may register via bit.ly/LalamovePartnerDriverHealthFair2024 to enjoy the perks of the Health Fair and will only need to present a Viber confirmation upon entering the venue.

Walk-in Lalamove partner drivers are also free to participate in the events series. Lalamove will also be ready to onboard interested individuals to apply as a Lalamove partner driver at the event with a 50 percent deposit fee discount. They can quickly participate in the programs, provided they bring the following requirements:

1.Professional Driver’s License

2.Valid NBI Clearance

3.Vehicle Official receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR)

4.Deed of Sale

5.Letter of Authorization (LOA) if the vehicle is owned by someone else

New and existing Lalamove partner drivers also get to purchase a Lalabag (a thermal bag) on-site for PHP 999, which is available for a limited time only.

The Health Fair series is a continuous commitment of the country’s leading on-demand delivery platform to holistically support its partner driver community as they enter this year with a healthy lifestyle and renewed enthusiasm.

“Our partner drivers worked extremely hard during the holiday season to cater to the peak demand in delivery orders. As we open the New Year, we want to give back to our partner drivers because they deserve the best,” remarked Nacario.

For more information on Lalamove partner driver benefits, visit https://www.lalamove.com/en-ph/driver/exclusive-benefit.

HONOR Philippines, a renowned player in the global technology arena, has commenced the new year with a resounding announcement of the HONOR X9b 5G, aptly touted as the toughest phone in their lineup. The revelation comes on the heels of an enticing teaser campaign, showcasing the phone's remarkable durability from every conceivable angle.

In a statement, HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It may come as a shock to our HONOR fans, but we really stayed true to our promise of giving the best to them. Don’t we all love surprises, especially when we least expect it? This upcoming grand launch will be very exciting not just for us but also for the whole Filipinos. We’re introducing what we’re confident to be a smashing hit!"

The HONOR X9b 5G addresses a universal concern—durability—suitable for users of all ages. Meticulously designed to provide a luxurious experience with the advanced amenities of smartphones, the HONOR X9b 5G is poised to captivate tech enthusiasts and the general public alike.

Moreover, HONOR X9b 5G is a marvel of modern design and technology. With the triple camera system crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship, while the body encased in vegan leather, the HONOR X9b 5G provides a delicate and skin-friendly touch, perfect for people who want the luxury to feel and amenities of advanced smartphones without a hefty price tag.

The hero color, Sunrise Orange, adds vibrancy to the HONOR X9b 5G's aesthetic, complementing the Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop Display that boasts SGS Five-star Overall Drop Resistance Certification.

With the triple camera system crafted with the precision of light luxury watch craftsmanship, while the body encased in vegan leather, the HONOR X9b 5G provides a delicate and skin-friendly touch, perfect for people who want the luxury feel and amenities of advanced smartphone.

The device is fortified with a substantial 5800mAh Battery, supported by a 35W SuperCharge11 feature, ensuring a remarkable battery life of up to three days. Further enhancing its resilience, the HONOR X9b 5G is bestowed with IP53 Water and Dust Protection.



In comparison to its predecessor, the HONOR X9a, this latest iteration showcases an enhanced storage capacity of 12GB + 256GB, a 108MP Lossless Camera that allows users to reduce image size without compromising quality, and a 4nm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, elevating the phone's gaming and entertainment capabilities.

The highly anticipated launch is slated for the Grand Launch scheduled on January 12, 2024, at 7:00 PM. HONOR enthusiasts, tech aficionados, and the wider public can expect a groundbreaking addition to the smartphone landscape with the arrival of the HONOR X9b 5G. Watch the live event here: https://bit.ly/FB_X9b_Pressrelease.

For more information and 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/.

In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

CHAMPIONING DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION: Bayad Marketing and Account Officers (standing, 2nd to 6th from left) with Sun Life Grepa Affinity Marketing Sales Head for Partnership Distribution Marge Estrera (standing, leftmost) are present with (seated left to right) Sun Life Grepa Vice President for Affinity Marketing Joen Songco, Sun Life Grepa President Richard Lim, Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer, and Bayad Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer Dennis S. Gatuslao.

Bayad, the pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines, officially seals its partnership with Sun Life Grepa Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa), a major life insurance company in the Philippines.

As Bayad beefs up its partnership with Sun Life Grepa, its mobile application - Bayad App will now be able to directly make available a variety of insurance plans to its subscribers, apart from enabling the acceptance of monthly payments for insurance premiums.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared, “Our sole purpose at Bayad has always been centered on elevating the quality of living of Filipinos, and a huge part of our role is to help our kababayans safeguard the most valuable things in life, their physical and financial wellbeing. With this, we continue to maximize our digital payment offerings by partnering with forward-thinking financial institutions like Sun Life Grepa. Now more than ever, we recognize the increasing need for security in cases of death, unforeseen accidents, hospitalization costs from illnesses, and retirement financial plans. We are one with Sun Life Grepa in enabling worry-free insurance payment solutions.”

“At Sun Life Grepa, we have always been committed to making life brighter for Filipinos through offering life insurance products that empower individuals and families to secure their future.“ said Sun Life Grepa President Richard Lim. This partnership with Bayad aligns perfectly with that direction. Its extensive network and expertise in payment solutions make them a remarkable partner to help us reach more Filipinos. We have the highest confidence that we will be able to offer an outstanding client experience but also reinforce our commitment to financial inclusion and security.”

Visit www.sunlifegrepa.com to learn more about Sun Life Grepa products and services.

For fintech institutions like Sun Life Grepa Financial that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive biller network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

Whether it was a late-night snack, a morning boost, or urgent grocery run, foodpanda was the go-to online food and grocery delivery platform in 2023. With the start of another year, the platform shared the top food and grocery trends of the past year based on the collective orders of app users.

“We offer a wide variety of cuisines on the app, but we've seen that our customers’ top food orders have remained consistent throughout the years. In 2023, we saw many more customers try our services outside food delivery, through groceries, pickup and even parcel delivery,” shared foodpanda Philippines Growth and Marketing Director Patricia Jacinto.

Get ready to dive into the heart of foodpanda's top orders in 2023!

The never-ending reign of burgers

In a world that's constantly changing, there's one constant – the burger reigns supreme! It has held its ground as the undisputed champion of foodpanda’s deliveries for years. Fast food is a formidable force, both for delivery and pick-up.

Burgers landing the top spot for both deliveries and pick-up orders also reflects the dominance of fast food as the most ordered cuisine on the app, followed by Filipino dishes and western cuisines like chicken and pizza.

“Burgers have always been among foodpanda’s top orders over the years. It seems that our app users love to order what they can eat on-the-go and the taste they are familiar with, whether it’s for delivery or pick-up,” Jacinto noted.

The grocery stars

When it comes to the most ordered grocery essentials, leading the band are none other than bread and liquor!

Our love for sandwiches and toast knows no bounds. Bread, the unsung hero of every kitchen, takes the top spot for pandamart, ensuring we never run out of carbs.

In foodpanda Shops, liquor emerges as the undisputed sovereign! It appears that a lot of foodpanda users are well-versed in the art of raising a glass to joyous occasions.

“The order basket of our app users are very diverse which is evident in the top grocery items. But it only goes to show that the foodpanda app has everything our customers want and need – from pantry essentials like bread to seasonal items like liquor,” Jacinto said.

Voucher-mania

As if the culinary delights weren't enough, foodpanda users are treated to a voucher extravaganza! The top three voucher rockstars – EATNA, FPASKO, and MERIENDA – have been the knights in shining armor, saving the day when cravings hit hard.

The great foodpanda payment face-off

In a world where cash is often crowned king, foodpanda users are rewriting the rules! The battleground of payment preferences is a neck-and-neck race, with an increasing number of users embracing digital payments.

Jacinto added that they rolled out an e-wallet service for quick and easy app payments. “pandapay lets users top up funds to the foodpanda app, ensuring secure and convenient payment for food or grocery orders. Plus, we’re also throwing in some perks like cashback for discounts on future orders.”

Aside from the overall orders from app users, they also introduced at the end of the year the foodpanda Rewind 2023 – a special treat that gives users an exclusive look at their orders, top dishes, preferred cuisines, and more all available in the app.