Wednesday, July 30, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 3

Hop on the Espresso Express at SM Southmall

0

If you’re always on the hunt for your next favorite café or just looking for an excuse to sip something new, SM Southmall has you covered. From July 9 to 20, head over to The Concourse (UGL) and catch the Espresso Express—a 12-day coffee festival packed with trending flavors, sweet pairings, and exciting experiences brewed just for you.

Discover some of the Metro’s most talked-about coffee spots, all in one place—serving everything from signature espresso blends to creative combos paired with tiramisu, banana pudding, and more. Whether you’re a black coffee loyalist or a matcha latte lover, there’s a cup (and a sweet treat) waiting for you.

To make things more exciting, visitors can grab a Brew Pass and earn stickers with every purchase, unlocking fun freebies and exclusive treats along the way. Just sip, collect, and claim!

The vibe is complete with daily live busking sets that bring a cozy soundtrack to your coffee crawl. Plus, enjoy Instagram-worthy photo ops and mall-wide coffee promos.

Joining the lineup are crowd-favorite brands like Slide Coffee, Matchanese, Somedae Café, Brew & Co, Draft Coffee, and Beanblock, each bringing their own specialty drinks and trending creations to the table.

Admission is free. So round up your coffee crew, grab your Brew Pass, and hop on the Espresso Express at SM Southmall—where great coffee meets even greater vibes.

OEd: Redefining Access to Education in the Philippines and Beyond

0

In today’s digital era—where technology touches nearly every aspect of our lives from how we work to how we connect—Online Education (OEd) stands at the forefront of a new educational movement. It proves that learning no longer has to be confined within the four walls of a classroom or bound by rigid schedules. By harnessing the power of digital tools, OEd is breaking down long-standing barriers in education, making it more inclusive for learners of all ages and backgrounds. As one of the Philippines’ pioneering platforms for flexible, fully online education, OEd is built for the dreamers: the working professionals, the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the undergraduates who paused for life’s responsibilities, and the second-chancers who never gave up. OEd’s mission is simple yet powerful: to make quality education available to anyone, anywhere, at any time.

Learning Without Limits

The core of OEd’s value lies in its flexibility. Students can take classes and complete coursework on their own schedule—without sacrificing their jobs or responsibilities at home. Its programs range from bachelor’s degrees to short courses and continuous learning, all officially granted by AMA University Online Education, which is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

For countless students, OEd is more than a platform; it’s an enabler. It allows you to pursue a diploma or professional development while still meeting your day-to-day obligations. The experience is designed to be intuitive and efficient, with a user-friendly system and a support team ready to assist.

One such student is Maria Adoracion R. Octavio, an OFW in Hong Kong who recently made headlines after placing Top 2 in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET)—all while continuing to work full time as a domestic helper abroad.

A Journey Fueled by Opportunity

Maria’s educational journey was long delayed—not by a lack of ambition, but by financial hardship. “After high school, I worked immediately to help my family. Later on, both my parents fell ill, and I had to prioritize their medical needs. My dream of finishing a degree kept getting pushed back,” she shared.

It wasn’t until years later, while working in Hong Kong, that Maria learned about OEd. “What convinced me to study at OEd was its flexibility. I didn’t need to leave my job. The platform was easy to use, and the team was very accommodating. OEd gave me back the chance I thought I had lost forever.”

Her OEd experience became a turning point. Beyond the knowledge and training she gained, she found confidence, independence, and self-discipline. “I learned to manage myself and study without a teacher by my side. The system helped me navigate everything independently.”

A Milestone Moment

Maria described her most unforgettable memory with OEd as her graduation ceremony held at the Metropolitan Theater in October 2024. “As I sat there, I was in tears. I had almost given up on my dream of becoming a teacher. But OEd made it possible.”

With her OEd-accredited degree, Maria was able to take the LET—and she didn’t just pass, she excelled. Her documents were even validated by WES (World Education Services) in Canada, confirming their equivalence to a bachelor’s degree, something not all institutions can offer.

Education That Moves With You

Whether you’re in Metro Manila, the provinces, or overseas, OEd makes learning possible wherever life takes you. It is ideal for:

  • Working professionals looking to upgrade their credentials
  • OFWs aiming to transition into new careers
  • People with disabilities who benefit from home-based study
  • Individuals pursuing a second degree or refresher course

By eliminating barriers like rigid schedules and physical attendance, OEd has transformed what access to education looks like.

Looking Forward

Today, Maria is finishing her contract in Hong Kong, but she has plans to return to the Philippines and apply for SPIMS—a government program that hires OFW professional teachers. “This is why I took the LET before coming home. Because of OEd, I’m finally taking the path I’ve always wanted.”

Her advice to her younger self is what OEd stands for at its core: “Believe in yourself. You are greater than you think.”

Education for the Modern Learner

OEd is not just a digital platform—it is a revolution in learning. It empowers those who once believed their time had passed. It restores hope to workers overseas, reignites dreams in the hearts of mothers, and opens pathways for students bound by distance, disability, or duty.

In a world that often says “it’s too late”, OEd boldly answers: “You’re right on time.”

So whether you’re chasing a childhood dream, upgrading your skills for tomorrow’s job market, or simply proving something to yourself—OEd is where your new beginning starts.

Because education should never be a privilege of circumstance. With OEd, it becomes a right—accessible, achievable, and entirely your own.

Ready to start your journey with OEd?
For inquiries and assistance, reach out to our Admissions Team through any of the following channels:

📞 Mobile/SMS/Call: 📲 Viber / WhatsApp:
0917 190 1821   / 0917 190 1817   /  0917 190 1821

☎️ Landline:
(632) 8737 5580

📧 Email:
admission@amauonline.com

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Start your flexible and accredited online education today with OEd – Online Education redefined for you.

8th Ortigas Art Festival 2025 in GH Mall

0

Finally the 8th Ortigas Art Festival in Greenhills Mall was launched yesterday, July 10, 2025.

It was a collaboration with different artists, organizers and city officials. It was officially opened by distinguished guests, Hon. Mayor Francis Zamora, Hon. Councilor Angelu De Leon, of Pasig City, and Hon. Councilor Jo Anne Saguinsin of Angono, Rizal.

There were amazing performances and previews of the amazing upcoming celebration filled with local art and creativity! More than just an exhibit, it was a festivity of visual arts, photography, fashion design and films in artistic and ingenious way.

The Ortigas Art Festival brings the joy of art from stage and museum, now directly to the public – Visit GH Mall now and see amazing arts and aesthetics driven by passion until July 24, 2025 for exciting art workshops, award-winning film screenings, stunning gallery displays!

Sun Life ranks No. 1 in MDRT in the Philippines, secures spot among Global Top 50

0

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. reaffirmed its leadership in the life insurance industry after once again securing the number one spot in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) in the Philippines. Further cementing its global reputation, Sun Life has also earned a place among the Top 50 MDRT companies worldwide. This recognition is driven by the outstanding performance of 444 Sun Life financial advisors who qualified for the MDRT in 2025.

The MDRT is a prestigious global association recognizing the world’s leading life insurance and financial services professionals. Sun Life’s consistent performance in this arena reflects its unwavering commitment to excellence, Client service, and professional development.

“This recognition is a testament to the passion and dedication of our advisors who go above and beyond to help our Clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives,” said Al Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life Philippines. “It is also a reflection of the exceptional quality of advisors we have. Maintaining our top spot inspires us to keep raising the bar and delivering brighter futures for every Filipino family we serve.”

Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines, added, “As we celebrate our 130th anniversary in the Philippines, this achievement is a powerful reminder of the enduring trust our Clients place in us. It reflects the strength of our purpose and the excellence of our advisors who continue to light the way for generations of Filipinos.”

To learn more about Sun Life, visit www.sunlife.com.ph. Stay updated by following Sun Life Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

BESTSELLING SUN LIFE PRODUCT WINS PRESTIGIOUS INSURANCE ASIA

0

Sun Life Secure Income, one of the bestselling products of Sun Life Philippines, has been honored with the Insurance Product Innovation of the Year award at the prestigious Insurance Asia Awards 2025.

Sun Life Secure Income is a groundbreaking life insurance product that offers lifelong protection and a guaranteed 6% annual income, currently the highest in the market. This innovative offering exemplifies the company’s dedication to developing solutions that address the evolving needs of Filipino clients, combining financial security with lifetime income benefits.

In her acceptance speech at the awards ceremony held at Marina Bay Sands, Sun Life Philippines’ Chief Product Solutions Officer Daureen Andal expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. She emphasized that the company’s focus on client needs and aspirations is at the core of their product development process.

“At Sun Life, our Clients are at the heart of everything we do. When designing products like Sun Life Secure Income, we prioritize their needs, aspirations, and financial security above all else,” Andal stated. “We thank Insurance Asia for this recognition, and we dedicate it to our Clients whose trust inspires us to excel every day.”

This marks the second consecutive year that Sun Life has received this distinguished recognition, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the insurance industry. Last year, the award was bestowed on the Sun Peso Maximizer (Hybrid Income) and Sun Dollar Maximizer (ProIncome) plans. This achievement underscores Sun Life’s position as a leader in providing cutting-edge insurance products in the Philippines.

The consecutive wins serve as a powerful motivator for Sun Life to continue its pursuit of innovation and excellence. As it celebrates its 130th anniversary in the Philippines this year, the company reaffirms its commitment to developing products that empower Filipinos to achieve lifetime financial security.

Financial education for everyone: Tala Philippines extends TALAkayan’s reach in promoting financial literacy

0

TALAkayan, an award-winning series of financial education workshops, is the pioneering initiative of Tala Philippines in its mission to enhance financial literacy for the global majority. Implemented in partnership with Empower and Transform (EAT), the program aims to equip Filipinos with knowledge on the basics of personal finance and money management.

Tala Philippines is further expanding the reach and impact of TALAkayan by rolling out educational digital content that is practical and easy to understand from its successful workshop series. This is part of its efforts to make financial education even more accessible and share the value of financial education and literacy to Filipinos. Every week, a new video will be uploaded on Tala Philippines’ social media platforms that covers topics from viral saving challenges and everyday inflation hacks to understanding credit score and investing.

The financial literacy video series was launched during a special TALAkayan workshop conducted on July 8, 2025. Bloggers, influencers, and media practitioners participated in the interactive session led by financial guru Salve Ibañez who expounded on the concepts of goal setting, saving and budgeting, debt management, differentiating between good and bad debt, calculating one’s net-worth, retirement planning, and investing, and the importance of these in improving financial health.

At the end of the workshop, she stressed how anyone can greatly benefit from having access and knowledge about personal finance, and applying it in their day-to-day lives. This is the message Tala Philippines wants to bring out through the TALAkayan workshops and the video series—financial education is for everyone, no matter what age, occupation, gender or background you may have. It is a valuable tool that can impact lives for the better.

“You are not defined by when you started in your financial journey, but the steps you take to achieve progress,” Salve added.

To date more than 1,200 participants from various sectors, including microentrepreneurs, factory workers, 4Ps graduates, OFWs, jeepney drivers, and farmers, have already been engaged across 13 TALAkayan workshops. These were held in various locations in Metro Manila, Laguna, Quezon Province, Nueva Ecija, and Singapore.

“Our goal with the TALAkayan workshops and video series is to make financial education more accessible to many. Money management and other related concepts aren’t usually taught in schools but it’s fundamental in leveling the playing field and giving everyone a fair shot despite the inequalities we may face every day,” said Missy Santos, Marketing Director of Tala Philippines.

Tala provides the global majority with the equal opportunity to grow, both financially and personally, and transform their lives for the better by making financial services, particularly credit, more accessible and promoting financial literacy.

Learn more about Tala by visiting tala.ph  and downloading the official Tala app.

Watsons and Diabetes Philippines Join Forces for Effective Diabetes Prevention & Care

0

Diabetes is a lifelong condition impacting a significant portion of the global population.

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), 589 million people worldwide are living with diabetes, with 215 million of them in the Western Pacific region, a number projected to rise to 254 million by 2050. The Philippines, one of the 38 countries in this region, is facing a growing diabetes burden. As of 2024, out of a total adult population of over 71 million, approximately 7.5% are living with diabetes, amounting to around 4.7 million Filipinos affected by the condition.

In response to the growing number of diabetes cases in the country and the need for more proactive health interventions, Watsons Philippines, the country’s leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, has partnered with Diabetes Philippines, Inc. (DPI) to amplify efforts in awareness, early detection, and chronic disease management. The partnership aims to make credible health information and professional care more accessible, especially at the community level.

This meaningful collaboration was officially launched during a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at Lanson Place Mall of Asia, with key executives and leaders from both organizations in attendance. Representing Watsons were Joeweeh B. Liao, Director of Health Business Unit, Finance, and Property Development;  Maria Adelfa T. De Ramos, Sales Operations Director; and Ma. Corina M. Marte, Director for People and Organization Development. From Diabetes Philippines, Dr. Fatma Tiu, President, led the signing alongside Dr. Reynaldo Rosales, Treasurer, Dr. Luinio Tongson and Ms. Leyden Florido members of the board.

“This collaboration with Diabetes Philippines brings us one step closer to making quality healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes, more accessible to every Filipino. We’re not only investing in education and early detection. While doing so, we are also strengthening our stores by beefing up our stocks and expanding our range of diabetes medicines and health essentials. We want every Watsons store to be a reliable source of support for people living with or at risk of diabetes,” shared Joeweeh  Liao.

Under this joint initiative, Watsons Pharmacists will undergo specialized training led by Diabetes Philippines, expanding their roles from conventional pharmacy practice to consultative, proactive care in managing diabetes and its complications. The program focuses on disease prevention, improving medication adherence, and achieving optimal treatment outcomes.

“Diabetes Philippines is deeply committed to improving the lives of Filipinos living with diabetes,” said Dr. Fatma Tiu, President of DPI. “We believe that education and early intervention can go a long way in preventing complications. This collaboration with Watsons allows us to bring that message closer to the public by equipping pharmacists, often the first point of contact, with the right tools and knowledge to help.”

This initiative supports Watsons Philippines’ broader mission to be the go-to destination for health and wellness by providing expert pharmacist advice, ensuring sufficient and readily available stocks, and promoting sustainable health practices. It also forms as part of Watsons’ “Look Good, Do Good, Feel Great” brand promise, now brought to life through meaningful tie-ups.

“Our goal has always been to give back to the community. Through this initiative, we’re helping our pharmacy teams gain a deeper sense of purpose. They’re not just dispensing medicine, they’re helping people live longer, healthier lives through confident, consultative care,”  added Ma. Corina Marte, Watsons Philippines’ People and Organization Development  Director.

“When people walk into our stores, we want them to feel that Watsons is more than just a place to shop, it’s where good health begins. We are turning everyday visits into opportunities for health empowerment,”  emphasized Maria Adelfa De Ramos, Watsons Philippines’ Sales Operations Director.

Launched just in time for National Diabetes Awareness Month this July, the Watsons and Diabetes Philippines partnership is a firm step toward creating a healthier, better-informed Philippines, one customer and one community at a time.

Download and shop through the Watsons App, available on the App Store or Google Play.  Enjoy other exciting health and wellness deals, with exclusive offers and discounts available on the app as well. Whether you need health essentials, pharmacy services, or expert advice, Watsons—your trusted health and pharmacy retail partner- has everything you need to stay on top of your health, beauty, and wellness goals.

7-Eleven Launches a Bold and Sweet Take on Slurpee with Slurpee Donuts

0

Every kapitbahay’s favorite brainfreeze® is now a dessert thanks to a daring new team up with Mister Donut!

When it comes to innovative snack ideas, leave it to 7-Eleven to make bold moves that are sure to surprise everyone. In its newest collaboration with Mister Donut, the convenience store giant is transforming the classic Slurpee into a delectable dessert with the exciting launch of Slurpee® Donuts.

Slurpee® has been a go-to favorite at 7-Eleven for years, beloved for its icy, refreshing goodness and variety of flavors. Now, that same iconic experience is reimagined into a soft, delicious donut perfect for grab-and-go snacking, and can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere.

Slurpee® Donuts come in two delicious flavors, offering something for every sweet tooth. If one is looking for an easy midday pick-me-up, they can choose the Cotton Candy flavor, a ring donut with cotton candy filling, blue sanding, and white chocolate streaks. This variant is reminiscent of the tasty, melt-in-your-mouth cotton candy treat everybody loved eating as a kid.

There’s also the Iskrambol flavor that offers a nostalgic experience in every bite, inspired by the famous Filipino street treat, ice scramble. This ring donut is filled with an iskrambol-flavored surprise, topped with pink vanilla glaze, mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of powdered milk.

This first-of-its-kind fusion between Slurpee® and Mister Donut is now available for a limited time in 7-Eleven stores nationwide.  Slurpee Donuts start at just ₱55 each and are best enjoyed with a refreshing Slurpee drink. Be sure to try one while supplies last.

In true Slurpee® fashion, 7-Eleven is also preparing to unveil a new Slurpee® flavor very soon—another bold surprise that customers can look forward to at their paboritong kapitbahay.

Like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

Tech Expert Art Samaniego Lines Up Early, 90th out of 400 to Pre-Order HONOR 400 5G in SM City Sta. Rosa

0

Was HONOR 400 5G Craze just a gimmick? We asked a tech expert to share his experience.

Among the first. Mr. Art Samaniego, IT Head and Co-founder of ScamWatch Pilipinas, joins the long queue at SM Sta. Rosa Laguna, for the first day sale of the HONOR 400 5G.

Leading smart devices provider HONOR Philippines just introduced its most successful product to date, the HONOR 400 5G. With its jampacked first day sale, viral videos, new brand ambassadors, and a Rolex and Hermes giveaway – the question remains, was all of it just a gimmick?

IT Head of Manila Bulletin and Co-founder of ScamWatch Pilipinas Mr. Art Samaniego shared his entire journey to getting his hands on HONOR’s newest viral smartphone.

“I saw it from the media launches and media activities, and when I saw the phone, nakita kong maganda talaga siya. I said, I need to try this one in real life kaya um-order ako. Gusto kong bumili ako kasi naniniwala ako sa telepono nung nasubukan ko sya. So, it’s a really great device for the price. I pre-ordered on June 18 in SM Sta. Rosa,” said Mr. Samaniego.

When asked about his experience during the jampacked first day sale on June 28, “I went to SM Sta. Rosa around 10 or 10:30AM so, kaka-open lang. I told my wife, kasi meron pa kaming pupuntahan after, ‘mabilis lang to, give me 30 minutes’. Pag dating namin sa HONOR store, nakita ko, punong-puno na ng tao. Meron ng bollards. I was surprised bakit ang dami na, then I counted the people there. Siguro mga 80 yung nabilang ko that time and kinunan ko ng picture. Maya-maya, dumadami na yung mga tao that they need to remove the barrier that they put,” he started. “Someone helped me and said, ‘Sir, kailangan mo kumuha ng number. Pang-90 na ko, kasi mayroong mga nakapila na ng mas maaga pa,” he shared his surprise as that was only 30 minutes upon mall opening.

“One thing is for sure; it’s not a gimmick. We, at HONOR, are also shocked with the massive turnout of HONOR 400 5G first day sale. We are overwhelmed and we are very grateful for everyone who supported us all the way from the teasers. We are committed to bringing only the best for our Filipino HONOR fans so expect nothing less form us,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

Pricing and Availability

Available in stunning color options—Midnight Black, Tidal Blue and Desert Gold—the HONOR 400 5G is now available for pre-order across the Philippines for only Php 22,999 (24GB + 512GB)! Get it now at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores, and online via Lazada https://bit.ly/Laz_H400_PR, Shopee https://bit.ly/Shop_H400_PR, and TikTok Shop https://bit.ly/TikTok_H400_PR.

You can also #BringPhotosToLife with #YourAIPhone via Home Credit easy installments of as low as ₱979/month for 18 months! Check the best HONOR products and deals for you here: https://hcph.info/3I2m1gb.

HONOR 400 5G is also available via Globe Postpaid Plans online (https://bit.ly/Globe_H400_PR) or head to participating stores starting with GPlan 1799 with Php 2,300 cashout. The mobile plan comes with 13GB Data, Unli All-net Call and Texts, and exclusive perks.

To know more about HONOR 400 5G, head on to: https://bit.ly/Web_H400_PR. For more 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 (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.

Filipino youth empowered to “go for it” with Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025

0

Over 250 student leaders from all over the country, kicking off in Metro Manila, ignited their potential at Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025, a youth assembly engineered to empower the next generation to boldly chase their dreams.

This flagship youth movement, held at the Power Mac Center Black Box Theatre in Ayala Malls Circuit Makati, gathered students aged 18 to 23, creating a space to dive into their aspirations, forge vital connections with peers, and be captivated by individuals who pursued their dreams and transformed them into reality.

Anchored on the theme “Let’s go for that dream. Go for it,” the event motivated students to take the next step in their journeys, with Globe providing support through technology, opportunities, tools, and digital literacy. The program aims to stress the role of connectivity and innovation in youth building and community development.

“Globe #GoForIt Student Fest 2025 showed students what’s possible when passion meets opportunity. Through internships, mentorship, grants, and events, Globe helps Filipino students gain real-world experience and grow into future leaders,” said Roche Vandenberghe, Chief Marketing Officer.

The event featured three inspiring speakers who each represented a major academic strand: Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS), Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM), and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Singer-songwriter and producer Zack Tabudlo connected with HUMSS students through his presentation, “From Rejection to Recognition: Turning Setbacks into Soundtracks of Success, ” where he spoke about school and the early challenges he faced on the road to becoming a renowned music artist.

Student entrepreneur Soj Gamayon inspired ABM strand students with his talk, “Planting Hope and Harvesting Dreams: Using AI to Uplift the Filipino Farmer,” sharing how he built AgriConnect PH, an AI-powered platform helping local agribusinesses manage risk. In just 150 days, his startup won the Red Bull Basement World Finals, outshining 110,000 entries from 40 countries, and gained recognition in Silicon Valley for its potential to transform rural livelihoods. Soj reflected on his journey and hinted at future collaborations with tech enablers like Globe to scale impact through innovation.

Artist and tech influencer Mikael Daez, representing the STEM strand reached out to students through his session, “Leveling Up in Life: Turning Passions into Purpose in the Digital Age,” where he discussed how his curiosity for technology had piqued his interest towards dabbling in content creation, and how connectivity, access to information helped him.

Beyond the insightful talks, Globe curated engaging activities such as the immersive Dream Booth, where students captured their aspirations in short videos, stating their name, dream career, and commitment to their goals. Globe also facilitated connections through Human Bingo, an interactive game encouraging participants to meet new people, find peers with similar ambitions, and capture memories at the Dream Wall. Furthermore, Globe took the lead in introducing attendees to the Globe Community Builders Program, offering valuable opportunities including volunteer roles, internships, student grants, and ambassador positions.

Student-special offers in the form of Globe Rewards were also available through the GlobeOne app, where participants redeemed points for perks that match student needs and lifestyle.

Globe continues to create spaces where the student youth can learn, collaborate, and thrive, supporting not just their digital needs but also their aspirations in education, career, and creative expression.

To learn more about how Globe helps students reach their goals, visit www.globe.com.ph/community-builder#gref.