Monthly Archives: September 2020

Power up your game with FREE EXTRA 1GB PER DAY of Games Every Day 

 for Mobile Legends, Call of Duty Mobile, Hearthstone and more 

[September 10,2020] Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. is about to boost your squad goals and experience with the launch of Free Games for All promo. 

Available to all Smart and TNT Prepaid subscribers, Free Games for All comes with a solid allocation of 2GB data per day of your favorite mobile games like Mobile Legends, Clash of Clans, Arena of Valor, Clash Royale, and the newly added mobile game to its roster – Call of Duty Mobile.  

With this, you can now play longer with your friends and watch your go-to gamers stream their playtime via Facebook Gaming. 

To avail of Free Games For All, download the New Smart App on Google Play or App Store and choose FREE GAMES.  

Pivot era for Filipino gamers and esports athletes 

The launch of Free Games for All comes on the heels of a recent report by the games market insights and analytics firm Newzoo, which cited that 74% of the Philippines’ online population plays games on mobile devices in 2019. 

This number is expected to grow further this year as many Filipinos turned to mobile games as a form of entertainment amid the pandemic. 

For the past years, Smart was among the first brands to recognize and empower the local gaming community. Recently, Smart has been constantly supporting the mobile gaming industry with the launch of the country’s first 5G-powered Esports Hub, the Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL), and the all-female league Liga Adarna, to name a few. 

With Free Games for All, Smart remains on track when it comes to advocating for mobile gamers and esports in the Philippines. 

Powered by the country’s fastest mobile data network 

Filipinos can enjoy their choice of passion with the different GIGA offers powered by Smart LTE, the country’s fastest mobile network, as certified by third-party mobile analytics firms such as Ookla and Opensignal. 

Ookla, the global leader in internet testing and analysis, recently named Smart as the country’s fastest mobile data network in the first half of 2020 after it achieved a Speed Score™ of 18.33, with average speeds of 15.94 Mbps for download, and 7.57 Mbps for upload, based on 2,810,963 user-initiated tests taken with Speedtest®. 

On the other hand, Opensignal, an independent mobile analytics firm, reported in its April 2020 Mobile Network Experience Report for the Philippines that Smart remained ahead of the competition in terms of Games Experience. 

For more details on Smart’s products and services, follow Smart’s official accounts on Facebook at www.fb.com/SmartCommunications, Twitter, and Instagram (@LiveSmart). 

This all-digital campaign stresses the ongoing dangers of HIV during this pandemic

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the issue of HIV and the dangers it brings, seems to have taken a backseat amidst everything that the whole world is experiencing right now. Yet, what people don’t seem to realize is that HIV is equally threatening as COVID-19. In the same way that we are told to wear masks and face shields, being properly educated, prepared, and protected against HIV is likewise critical in today’s times.

With this in mind, Durex launches its latest digital campaign dubbed as “Protection & Preparedness Education” or PPE in short. This timely initiative aims to heighten HIV awareness, stressing the constant relevance of safe sex and “Always Coming Prepared”—and that we must never let our guards down. Whether for singles or stay-at-home couples, using protection—which can provide necessary safeguards without limiting pleasure—is crucial, as health and wellness concerns continue to take front and center, during the ongoing pandemic.

Towards this end, Durex has lined-up a series of online events, headlined by the crew of Boys Night Out (BNO)—TonyToni, Slick Rick, and Sam YG—the campaign’s main ambassadors.

“With all that is happening during these trying times, we must not lose sight of the fact that HIV remains to be a serious concern, one that is as life-threatening as COVID-19,” says Durex Philippines. “The Always Come Prepared campaign of Durex therefore continues, made just as relevant and timely—in keeping with the situation by going online. We will keep on with our goal of educating the public about HIV Prevention, and that being prepared is always a must.”

Among the exciting and relevant activities to watch out for include an online staging of the University Townhall series featuring speakers from the medical field, psychology, HIV, and LGBTQIA+ awareness and advocacy; the launch of HIV Awareness E-Learning Videos that’s well suited for the shift towards online learning; and Vlog collabs with influencers and celebrities focused on fun, health and wellness activities.

Stay tuned for more details by subscribing to Durex Philippines’ YouTube Channel.

5 Things to Consider When Buying a Motorbike

Tanauan, Batangas—Sept. 8, 2020 — For those who are planning to buy a motorcycle for the first time, choosing from a wide variety of brands and models can be daunting especially if you want to satisfy your appetite for road adventure while staying safe and feeling the outside vibes at the same time.

Choosing the right motorcycle can become a drag when you think of the endless considerations to factor in such as its weight, comfort, and convenience. All this can take away the fun of bike shopping.

Fortunately, Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI), the No.1 motorcycle manufacturer in the Philippines, shares these five key elements to consider when buying a motorcycle.

Determine Your Experience. Some motorcycles are truly meant for the experienced riders who are used to road challenges. So, first things first, before you go to the shop, try to determine what you can and cannot do when driving a motorcycle.

Identify Your Needs. Why do you need a motorcycle? As a matter of fact, why do you even want it? Motorcycles come in different shapes and sizes, accommodating the type of travel the rider will most likely use it for, such as long out of town travels, city driving, or zigzagging traffic. Always look for a motorcycle that will cater to your needs and see how choosing your bike can become more manageable.

Know Your Options. Through years of innovations, motorcycles have become incredibly diverse that riders have numerous options to choose from that will help them journey on any form of terrain on any period. It is important to know the different options so that you can pick which one suits you best.

Choose A Good Fit. Motorcycles come in different shapes and sizes, but so does the rider. One of the most important factors when riding a bike is balance, which you will find challenging to do if you struggle to ride, simply because feet cannot reach the foot pegs, or the bike is too heavy. Try to consider some of these parts, as well.

• Seat Height and Cushioning – Always measure the height of your seat to see if your feet can touch the motorcycle’s foot pegs or the ground, and since there will be a chance that you will ride for hours, check the cushioning of the seat to ensure you won’t encounter any chronic injuries.

• Engine Heat and Vibration – You will literally be on top of the engine when you are riding your motorcycle. The engine’s heat and vibrations can make it uncomfortable for the rider to properly drive a bike in the long run, so make it a point to check the engine.

• Weight – Weight is a big part of the rider’s ability to balance and drive a motorcycle. There will be times when you will be pushing or pulling the bike to maneuver it, and it can be hazardous to turn when riding a motorcycle that is too heavy for you.

Budget. Motorcycles are great long-term investments, and you should not only consider the retail price of the bike but also the cost of fuel and maintenance. Look for motorcycles that are budget-friendly when it comes to its parts and its fuel efficiency.

Fit for Everyone

You will not regret hitting the road when you find the most comfortable and most convenient motorcycle that is the best fit for you.

The All-New AirBlade150 makes riders of every skill level standout on the road with its fashionable look and innovative features. It boasts of its powerful 150cc SOHC liquid-cooled engine for prime acceleration superiority in stop-and-go situations, which provides riders easy maneuverability, especially for newbies to navigate through traffic and excellent speed for a great adventure. 

Not only that, The All-New AirBlade150’s cutting-edge features also include the front-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which prevent wheels from locking up, All-LED Lighting System including headlight, position light and tail light, Smart Key with Answer Back System & Anti-Theft Alarm, spacious 22.7L Utility Box that can accommodate helmet with enough room for personal belongings with a Power Socket and LED Lamp inside. It also has a Digital Meter Panel that keeps track of your riding with an easy-to-read display system, Park Brake Lock that gives added safety and convenience when on a standstill and a Fuel Tank with a fuel efficiency rating of 47 kilometers per liter.

The All-New AirBlade150 comes in three unique colors: Matte Galaxy Black Metallic, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, and Candy Ross Red. It is available at all of Honda’s dealerships with a suggested retail price of PHP109,000.

Finding the perfect motorcycle meant for you will make your life ten times better, especially with HPI’s The All-New AirBlade150 being only one of its wide array of motorcycles that’s in line with their “ONE DREAM” campaign, which aims to fulfill the dreams of Filipino riders through the joy of mobility.

There is a lot more to explore from Honda and its wide array of motorcycles. For more details about Honda products and promos, visit our website www.hondaph.com and follow our Facebook page, Honda Philippines, Inc. and Instagram, @hondaph_mc. You can also contact us through our landline number, (02)-8581-6700 to 6799 and mobile number, 0917-884-6632.

Looking for a trailblazing adventure or a smooth cruise across the city? Stay tuned for our next article about choosing the right type of motorcycle for your riding adventure.

The SM Store launches its new ambassador for its Call to Deliver service Alex Gonzaga and its new hotline number   #143SM (#14376)

The SM Store’s Call to Deliver service has a new face, and a new easy to remember hotline number.  With that, its new ambassador, television host, actress, and singer Alex Gonzaga highlights Call to Deliver’s hotline number   #143SM  (#14376).

Bridging the convenience of on-line shopping and premium in-store customer assistance, Call to Deliver started out with a few stores in the Vismin area on April 13, 2020 to be able to assist locked-down customers who would be needing essential items from the store.

Since then, it has become available at all SM Stores nationwide. And it’s easy to see why shoppers love SM’s Call to Deliver service.   It makes everyone a little bit special by bringing a new, complete and happy shopping experience to customers by providing you with your own personal shopper thru Viber ordering/video call ordering/virtual shopping and offering multiple payment options that include Cash on Delivery, Credit/Debit Card, Contactless Payment Options like GrabPay and Gcash, online payment and even bank transfers. It also accepts SM Gift Cards and SM Sodexo Gift Passes.

Alex calls #143SM for her everyday essentials, her gadget’s accessories as well as items for the home.

Enjoy your items in front of your door as SM Call to Deliver delivers nationwide.  Sixty-four (64) branches of The SM Store are ready to deliver your items the next day after completing your transaction.  Or you may opt to pick-up items at your own convenience thru the allotted curbside pick-up point.

Alex, who says she and her family have been SM customers for many years, recalls trips to Megamall and North EDSA from their home in Taytay, excursions she considers very much like “a trip to Baguio.” She remembers her Mom bowling at SM North EDSA, and being proud when she received her Prestige Card.

With that, as brand ambassador, she is “happy to be part of this family, this brand, this product that Filipinos have trusted for years. It’s really an honor and privilege to be part of SM’s new service.”

And she’s loving this new way to shop as with a personal shopper, “it’s nice to be able to talk to someone for orders. It feels good if someone can answer your questions and make some recommendations when you want to buy something.”

Likewise, “knowing that there’s an existing physical store, gives me confidence that I’m making a legit transaction.” She’s also delighted that Call to Deliver has multiple payment options, is available at all SM Stores nationwide and offer delivery and pick-up options.

“It’s like you’re bringing SM Store inside your home,” she says.  “That’s how convenient it is.

The SM Store Call to Deliver now made even easier!  Just call #143SM (#14376), place your order with the personal shopper that will be assigned to you and follow payment instructions, and have your items delivered or arrange store pick up.

“It’s like you’re bringing The SM Store inside your home,” says Alex about The SM Store’s Call to Deliver service.

The SM Store Call to Deliver service is part of the SM Store’s continuous commitment to serve the ever-changing needs of its customers. Branch hotlines of The SM Store Call to deliver are still available; 0917-552-5842/ 0917-830-4571 for SM City Marilao, 0917 840 3356/ 0917 843 6468 for SM City Baliwag and 0917-816-3611/0917-816-3766 for SM City San Jose Del Monte.

Complementing the offerings of SM’s digital stores, shoppers will also love great bargains and finds with So Many Sale at The SM Store of SM City Marilao, SM City San Jose Del Monte and SM City Baliwag. Get as much as 50% OFF on selected items until October 31, whether it be fashion must-haves, baby needs, home essentials and so much more. You can also make distance learning fun for kids with SM Stationery and SM Accessories.

And since your safety is our priority, The SM Store has everything to make shopping safe and secure for everyone – conducting temperature checks at entrances, regular disinfection of counters and other in-store areas, and implementation of social distancing protocols. SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag are open from 10:00 am to 8:00pm while SM City San Jose Del Monte adjusted mall hours is 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Top-of-the-line screen, battery and performance from the beloved brand

Manila, Philippines, September 7, 2020 — POCO, the industry-redefining smartphone brand, brought its latest device to The Philippines: POCO X3 NFC.

Tailored for young tech and gaming enthusiasts, it adopts a unique finish-line design that screams power. The device puts performance above all else, offering only the most useful high-end specs with no frills at a fraction of the usual price.

Priced starting at PHP 10,990 and available for purchase from September 9, The Philippines is among the first batch of markets to introduce the POCO X3 NFC and will be available from September 9.

Debuting Qualcomm’s newest and most powerful 700-series 4G processor – Snapdragon^TM 732G – POCO X3 NFC boasts incredible performance that lasts up to two days on one charge, thanks to the handset’s large 5,160mAh battery. Meanwhile, the phone’s 120Hz+240Hz display creates an incredibly smooth and responsive experience superior to most flagships on the market.

Commenting on the launch of POCO X3 NFC in The Philippines, Mark Li, Country Manager of The Philippines, Xiaomi, said, “POCO X3 NFC continues the legendary tradition of POCO as it is the perfect daily driver with incredible everyday use and an optimized gaming experience. We are proud of the fact that POCO X3 NFC is the world’s first smartphone to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon^TM 732G. This is a testament to our commitment to provide the latest technology at honest prices. We hope the launch of POCO X3 NFC will continue to delight POCO enthusiasts in The Philippines and welcome new users to the enduring legacy of the POCO series.”

Exactly the performance you need with the brand-new Qualcomm^® Snapdragon^TM 732G platform

Running on Qualcomm’s most powerful 4G processor to date, the Snapdragon™ 732G, POCO X3 NFC offers sustained peak performance and AI capabilities that will impress even the most demanding gamers thanks to its architecture based on the Kryo^TM 470 octa-core CPU and Adreno™ 618 Elite Gaming series GPU.

To ensure steady operation and frictionless user experience, the device embeds LiquidCool Technology 1.0 Plus, combining an enlarged copper heat pipe with multiple layers of graphite that work together to reduce the heat of the phone’s processor by up to 6 degrees¹.

The phone’s incredible performance can be further optimized for gaming thanks to the latest iteration of Game Turbo 3.0, the utility that tunes the phone in accordance with game requirements, that ensures users get the most out of the handset’s powerful hardware. Additionally, the phone’s Z-axis linear motor ensures superb haptic feedback with over 150 vibration modes for different scenarios.

Exactly the immersion you need with 120Hz + 240Hz display and stereo speakers

In line with POCO’s original goal of making innovation available to everyone, POCO X3 NFC sports a stunning edge-to-edge 6.67” FHD+ DotDisplay with a staggering combination of a 120Hz refresh rate and a 240Hz touch sampling rate.

POCO X3 NFC boasts one of the smoothest screens in its price category. The DynamicSwitch function allows the phone to save power by automatically switching between 50, 60, 90 and 120Hz depending on the use case and the format of content displayed on the screen. This allows the phone’s refresh rate to go up for use cases like gaming and down for lighter operations like reading – thereby optimizing power usage

The 240hz touch sampling rate further reinforces the phone’s extraordinary display capabilities, allowing it to beat most competition hollow. POCO X3 NFC boasts 33% faster response than most flagships currently on the market², providing for an exceptionally satisfying user experience as well as giving users a noticeable competitive advantage even in the most sophisticated games.

To ensure utmost immersion, the device also packs a pair of flagship-grade stereo speakers. The 4cc-equivalent upper speaker, 1cc-equivalent lower speaker, and up to 0.5mm vibration amplitude provide for crystal clear stereo sound and an absorbing gaming experience. Meanwhile, the speakers’ ability to self-clean ensures unmuffled audio in the long run.

Exactly the photos you need with 64MP AI quad-camera system

POCO X3 NFC sports a top-notch rear quad-camera system consisting of a 64MP main camera, 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, 2MP macro camera and a 2MP depth sensor.

The phone’s main camera is a flagship Sony IMX 682 sensor featuring an ƒ/1.89 aperture and 1.6μm 4-in-1 Super Pixel that produces detailed and ultra-clear pictures. The 13MP ultra-wide angle camera boasts a 119° field of view propped up by ƒ/2.2 aperture and a 1.0μm pixel size, while the 2MP macro camera and depth sensor complete the setup offering extra functionality and reinforcing the main lens’ capabilities.

On the front, the device sports a 20MP camera with ƒ/2.2 aperture and 1.6μm 4-in-1 Super Pixel, ideal for taking unblemished selfies.

For those trying to stand out from the crowd, POCO X3 NFC packs a slew of creative features including six kaleidoscope options, Gold vibes mode, Cyberpunk mode, numerous new photo filters,as well as AI Skyscaping 3.0, presenting new creative ways to brighten up users’ social media feed.

Video enthusiasts can make use of the device’s 4K video recording as well as features including smooth video zoom, focus peaking and AE/AF lock. The included LOG/RAW format support and Vlog mode not only ensure that users can capture their most important moments in utmost quality, but also turn the phone into a semi-professional workstation for video content production.

Exactly the battery life you need with 5,160mAh and 33W fast charging

Top level specs are no use without a battery that lasts. To guarantee that users can enjoy all of its amazing features, POCO X3 NFC is equipped with a large 5,160 mAh(typ) battery that lasts over two days under moderate usage. The handset supports 33W fast charging which not only means that the device can be charged to 100% in only 65 minutes, but also that a mere 30 minutes will fill it up to 62%¹.

The increased charging speed is achieved through Middle Middle Tab (MMT) technology. In conventional batteries, the electric current is coming from the bottom of the module, filling it upwards, thus resulting in considerably slower charging speed. Middle Middle Tab (MMT) technology is based on an innovative method in which the battery receives the electric current from the middle and spreads it simultaneously to the top and bottom of the module. This allows for faster and more consistent charging speed, while also ensuring battery longevity, compared to traditional layouts.

Prices and availability

Starting from September 9, POCO X3 NFC’s 6GB+64GB variant will be available at PHP 10,990, and 6GB+128GB at PHP 12,990. The device will be available in two colors – Shadow Gray and Cobalt Blue.

As part of the first sale in The Philippines, a 48-hour deal for the 6GB+64GB variant will be available exclusively on Shopee on September 9 and 10at an early bird price of PHP 9,990, a PHP 1,000 price drop from its recommended retail price. In addition, customers will receive a complimentary POCO mousepad and a BlackShark Fun Cooler. As for the 6GB+128GB variant, it will be sold at an early bird price of PHP 11,990, a price drop of PHP 1,000 from PHP 12,990, and customers will receive a free POCO digital pouch and a BlackShark Fun Cooler Pro.

The device will be available in online and offline channels including Lazada and Authorized Mi Stores soon.

Specifications

¹ Lab results. Results may vary based on individual conditions.

² The number refers to displays with 180Hz touch sampling rate.

³ Availability may vary between markets.

Shop safely from home! Get you #MasarapMasaya pantry essentials from the NutriAsia Flagship Stores in Shopee or Lazada.

Want to get your favorite NutriAsia products, but don’t want to risk going out to the store? Don’t worry—they’re now available to purchase online and have delivered right to your doorstep!

That’s right—your trusted and beloved Silver Swan, Datu Puti, UFC, Mang Tomas, Papa, Golden Fiesta, Jufran, and Locally products are available to buy quickly and conveniently through the brand’s online stores on Lazada and Shopee.

Here’s how you can buy NutriAsia products online.

Lazada

1. Go to the NutriAsia online shop on Lazada at https://www.lazada.com.ph/shop/nutriasia/.

2. Click “Shop by Brand” or “Shop by Category” to browse the products.

3. Click on the products you want to buy and click “Add to Cart.”

4. Once you’re ready, go to your cart and click “Check Out” to pay.

Shopee

1. Go to the NutriAsia online shop on Shopee at https://shopee.ph/nutriasiaofficialstore.

2. Click on the products you want to buy and click “Add to Cart.”

3. Once you’re ready, go to your cart and click “Check Out” to pay.

It’s that simple! What’s even better is you can enjoy different ways of paying for your purchases, such as by card or cash on delivery. Now you can cook your next masarap-masaya meals using your favorite NutriAsia products anytime, without worry! Check out recipes you can make with NutriAsia products at https://nutriasia.com/recipe/. Happy shopping!

A picture paints a thousand words and truly that photographs bring back memories. And in this digital age, one thing that we never forget doing is to take pictures especially when we are in beautiful places.

The local government in partnership of SM City San Jose del Monte celebrates the 5^th Tanglawan Festival and 20^th Cityhood Anniversary of San Jose del Monte in a simpler but more meaningful way through a photo art exhibit promoting the tourist spots and landmarks of the city.

Dubbed as the ‘Kwentong San Joseño” the local government organized a photo art contest open for all the professional, amateur, and aspiring photographers and artists in the city. It is one way to showcase the talent of San Joseños in taking pictures and most importantly to display the beauty of the city and how it has changed over time.

“These photos are not just simple pictures, they tell how rich and beautiful our city is.” San Jose del Monte Tourism Officer Roberto Peralta Ramirez Jr. said as he shares how he wanted to take this opportunity of promoting the city online. “We wanted to promote it right now because most of us are into social media, so when we go back to normal, people will be more interested and eager to visit our city” he added.

To ensure the safety of everyone and to comply with the health protocols, the opening of the exhibit was only viewed through Facebook Live, and was only graced by the contestants and few guests led by Congresswoman Florida Robes.

On the other hand, SM City San Jose del Monte Mall Manager Jose Mari Emmanuel H. Correa expressed his gratitude to the local government and congratulates the contestants. “This activity of the local government provides inspiration and hope to all of us that in the future we will be able to conquer this challenge that we are experiencing right now and be able to move on stronger together” he shares.

Located at the second floor of SM City San Jose del Monte, the exhibit will run until the last day of Tanglawan Festival celebration of September 5.

From August 19 to September 9, get the best deals on electronics, clothing, jewelry, household items.

MANILA, SEPTEMBER 7, 2020 — Start adding to cart! Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, celebrates one of its signature annual shopping events, the 9.9 Super Shopping Day. On September 9, Shopee will offer free shipping with ₱0 minimum spend, amazing deals as low as ₱9, fantastic promotions from brands, and many more.

With tons of incredible brand deals, promos, and discounts, Shopee lists down nine amazing deals from your favorite brands this coming 9.9:

1. Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 4

Live hands-free while keeping track of your activity, health, and notifications with Xiaomi’s sleek smartwatch.

2. Mini Bluetooth Speaker

Never miss out on an opportunity to dance with this compact Bluetooth speaker that fits in your hand. It comes in four colors: Red, Black, Pink, Blue.

3. Silver Necklace with Pendant Anchor

Spoil a loved one with some jewelry! It comes with a free box to show them just how much you care.

4. QKZ AK6 Sports Earphones

Experience high definition sound quality with these dynamic earbuds. Its ergonomic fit will make sure they stay comfortable in your ear while you workout or fall asleep. It comes in five colors: Black, Blue, Green, Red, and Yellow.

5. Pony Shooter Low

Get these lightweight and breathable sneakers that are perfect for the metropolitan man.

6. Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Smartphone

Treat yourself to this Xiaomi smartphone that features a 48MP Quad Rear Camera that’s perfect for capturing your life’s adventures.

7. Bags on Demand Blair Sling Bag

Show off your personality while you’re on the go with this printed Blair sling bag.

8. Romoss Sense 4 Power Bank

With this buy 1 get 1 deal, you never have to worry about your phone dying again. Charge your devices with this two-input power bank that’s ready-to-use anywhere you go.

9. HUG 32″ Full HD LED TV

Relax on movie nights with this 32-inch TV in high resolution that your whole family can enjoy.

9.9 Super Shopping Day

The 9.9 Super Shopping Day runs until September 9, 2020. It will feature exciting promotions like free shipping with ₱0 minimum spend, daily flash deals for as low as ₱9, and bigger discounts when shoppers use ShopeePay. Consumers will also get huge discounts up to 90% off on leading brands, win exciting prizes via in-app games and many more.

For more information on the Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day, please visit https://shopee.ph/m/99.

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.