2022/08/07

3 Easy Ways To Score Over ₱2M worth of prizes at the 8.8 ShopeePay Festival

8/07/2022 12:15:00 AM

 

Online transactions are now more rewarding as ShopeePay gives you more reasons to send money, buy load, and shop online! From August 6 to 8, ShopeePay is hosting three days of giveaway with over ₱2M in prizes. Users can further rejoice as exciting prizes and rewards are up for grabs at the 8.8 ShopeePay Festival!

If you’re not yet a ShopeePay user, now’s the perfect time to set up your own account and join the celebration. Here’s what you need to do using Shopee’s mobile wallet to win big this August:

1. Send money for free and you could win up to ₱1 million
It’s not every day that you get a chance to turn your ₱50 into ₱1 million. ShopeePay is giving away prizes to two raffle winners a day from August 6 to 8, with cash prizes increasing up to ₱1 million each day until 8.8. To qualify, simply send at least ₱50 to any ShopeePay user during the duration of the promo.

To join, follow these steps:
  1. Activate and verify your ShopeePay account.
  2. From August 6 to 8, send at least ₱50 to any ShopeePay user.
  3. Play the lucky draw after sending money to qualify for the raffle draw.
  4. Winners will be announced on social media so make sure to follow ShopeePay’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

Just think of how much you can do with ₱1 million pesos: travel fund, tuition fee, household expenses, or perhaps a new car—all it takes is a few taps on your phone and you’re one step closer to being a millionaire. The best thing is that it takes less than a minute to send money with ShopeePay. Plus, there’s no hidden fees!

2. Tune in to your TV for a chance to win up to ₱100,000
Spending your days at home while lounging in front of TV isn’t so bad when you’re off to win cash prizes. Sounds exciting? You can be among the lucky winners of ₱100,000 via ShopeePay when you join the Shopee Shake segments at your favorite programs: It’s Showtime on August 6 and 8, All Out Sundays on August 7, and 24 Oras on August 8. Shopee Shake is one of the app’s popular features that allows you to win prizes as you shake your mobile phone.

Set your alarms and catch some of the country’s popular personalities, Iya Villania, Gabbi Garcia, Andre Paras, Jugs Jugueta, Teddy Corpuz, and more, as they hype up the 8.8 ShopeePay Festival. Watch out for the Shopee Shake segment and, when prompted by the TV hosts, log in to your Shopee app, click the blue Shopee Prizes icon on the homepage, and start doing the Shopee Shake to win.

3. Verify your ShopeePay to get free ₱500 and receive exclusive deals
Getting rewards doesn’t get any easier than this. On August 8, receive free ₱500 when you register on the app, verify your ShopeePay account, and send money for the first time. As a verified user, you’ll also gain access to more rewarding perks when you do your transactions. This 8.8, you can get ShopeePay’s 1GB for ₱1 data offer, available for all major networks. Don’t miss deals on Shopee and keep up with the latest trends in fashion, beauty, tech, home & living, and more when you check out with free shipping discounts exclusive to ShopeePay users.

Don’t miss these exclusive promos and have a safe and enjoyable online experience this 8.8 ShopeePay Festival. Reach out to Shopee Cares PH for the best customer care on all things Shopee. Follow @ShopeeCaresPH on Twitter and Facebook, where you and the rest of the Shopee Fam can find answers to your concerns and get the support you need.

2022/08/04

5 Activities To Do at SM this Cyber Month

8/04/2022 06:57:00 AM

 

Our go-to hub got something for the tech geeks!

SM Supermalls is celebrating tech and innovation this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022. It’s going to be an #AweSM, action-packed month at SM with these activities and offerings that will keep you at the edge of your seat.


 

Experience the Great Gadget Sale
Truly, there is no place like SM Cyberzone when it comes to the hottest tech deals and the lowest price guaranteed gadgets. Get your hands on the best deals, special promos, and bundles on select items with up to 60% off in participating stores at the Great Gadget Sale. Delightful, tech-citing deals are up for grabs at SM Cyberzone, SM Appliance, and The SM Store Gadgets!


 

Hop on the Gadget Lab
From fun, entertaining displays and touch & try product exhibits, to interactive product guides and the latest gadgets available in the Philippines, go crazy over all things tech at the Gadget Lab. See for yourself all the best smart home devices, gaming, productivity devices, and smartphones on display in the activity areas.

See what the future of tech and gaming looks like
Aside from the epic battles, you can also see what the future of tech and gaming looks like at the PlayZone. Immerse yourself in the live demonstrations of the newest gaming technology there is! You can also check out the gaming pods, gaming set-ups, and PC rig displays in the activity area.

Witness some action at the PlayZone
SM Supermalls is bringing together e-sports players and mobile gamers for some intense and epic battles. Tag along with your gaming squad and watch the gamers outplay each other at the special exhibition matches.


 

Grab the special deals exclusive via the SM Online App
But if you can’t go to any SM Cyberzone branches in the Philippines, there’s still a way for you to score these offerings and discounts. All you have to do is download the SM Malls Online App, add to your cart all your tech must-haves, use the voucher deals in-app, and just pick up the items at the SM mall near you.


 

For first time shoppers, SM Malls Online is offering a P200 OFF when you use voucher code SMGOESONLINE upon checkout. Shop for your favorite tech brands and gadget needs! Download now the SM Malls Online app here - https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/btxb3s1w

“The #SMCyberMonth2022 is a celebration of tech and gadgets that can definitely make our lives more fun, easier, and convenient. And no matter what your interest is– may it be gaming, virtual reality, smart home, music, or smartphone photography – there will be something for you at Cyberzone!” said SM Supermalls President, Steven Tan.

 


Experience all these and more this August at the #SMCyberMonth2022! Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls’ official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram so you won’t miss out on all the cool happenings in your favorite SM mall.

HANDY NUTRITION HACKS FOR A HEALTHIER YOU

8/04/2022 12:37:00 AM

 


We’ve all been there–raring to eat healthy but falter when we do our grocery runs. With the sea of available food choices, navigating through the aisles can be a dizzying chore. Here are a few tips to help you skip the stress and fill your cart with healthier food choices!

Lemons pack a punch
Looking to level up your cooking? Lemons help you lose weight and boost your immune system–one lemon alone contains half your daily dose of vitamin C. Squeeze them on top of your favorite dish to add extra zest, or dunk a few slices in a jar for a refreshing glass of lemon-infused water.

Honey never spoils
Honey lasts forever. Its low moisture content keeps bacteria from surviving and it’s acidic enough to ward off most bacteria. It is also rich in antioxidants and is good for your blood sugar levels. Try replacing sugar with honey in your coffee, tea, and morning bowl of oatmeal.

“Low fat” means “added sugar”
When striving to live a healthier lifestyle, it’s natural to gravitate towards labels that say ‘low fat’ or ‘light.’ However, you might want to think twice. It usually means the food contains added sugar which can actually make you gain weight. Sugar, not fat, is your diet's main enemy. Try to opt for food with low sugar content instead of low fat.

"Organic" does not always mean healthy
In recent years, 'organic' and 'gluten-free' have become diet buzzwords. However, just because something is promoted as such doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Truth is, organic sugar is still sugar, and gluten-free junk food is still junk food. Make it a habit to read nutrition fact labels to help you pick your food wisely.

Not all chocolate is bad for you
Here’s a bit of good news: you don’t have to give up chocolate to lead a healthy lifestyle. Dark chocolate is rich in disease-fighting antioxidants and can help lower your blood pressure and risk of heart disease. When you’re craving something sweet, reach for a bar of dark chocolate. It's actually good for you. Hooray!

Start your healthy journey with AIA Vitality

The journey to eating better can be overwhelming but AIA Vitality is here to make it easier!

AIA Vitality is AIA Philippines’ wellness program that rewards you for knowing and improving your health, and comes bundled with various AIA products.

Members earn points with each health task they accomplish. The healthier you get, the more points you earn and the higher your AIA Vitality status becomes, the bigger your rewards.

Simply log in your results in the app as you accomplish certain health goals to earn exciting discounts from health and wellness partners such as special rates on medical services, fitness apparel and devices, and more. You can even earn insurance benefits of up to 50% additional coverage, 20% premium discount or 100% loyalty boost on your AIA policy!

Click here for more information about AIA Vitality and the Total Health Solution offered by AIA Philippines, or here to visit the AIA Philippines Facebook page, email customerservice.ph@aia.com or call (02) 8528-2000 to know more.

2022/08/02

Sharing This: How do you spend your first paycheck? A finance expert weighs in

8/02/2022 12:21:00 AM

 

Let's talk about money and savings. 

When one begins to start earning their own money, one of the most daunting tasks is learning how to manage it. Senior Financial Advisor, Certified Associate Financial Planner, and content creator Antonette Aquino shares tips on how to build good financial habits for yourself as early as your first job, or if you’ve been working several years and want to improve on your money management:

  • 1.Prioritize spending on needs and avoid splurging on things that will not bring you value in the future. Aquino also says that we can treat ourselves once in a while to enjoy the fruits of our hard work…for as long as it doesn’t jeopardize our future.
  • 2.Pay yourself first. Before paying for bills, commit to setting a percentage of your income to savings and investments. This includes putting money into your investment accounts and buying insurance. Make sure to do this consistently!
  • 3.Use the bucketing method to separate your finances. For people who are still trying to get the hang of saving, Aquino recommends trying out the bucketing method which allows you to have a clearer view of your spending and saving habits when all your funds are separated. Instead of having all of your money in one savings account, It is best to have four kinds of accounts:
    • a.Operating Fund - Allocate money for recurring expenses such as quarterly, monthly, or annual bills in this account.
    • b.Emergency Fund – Allocate 20% of your income to this account for unforeseen expenses such as a medical emergency or a job loss.
    • c.Financial Freedom Fund – This account is for the achievement of life goals and dreams, which include retiring early or going back to school.
    • d.Happy Account – This account is for all of your leisurely expenses like travel.
  • 4.When you earn more, don’t immediately upgrade your lifestyle. If you continuously level up your belongings and lifestyle every time you earn more money, you will never be able to hit your targets. Remind yourself to live below your means until you’ve begun to hit them.
  • 5.The longer you put off investing, the harder you’ll need to work to get to the same level of financial freedom as someone who starts investing earlier. If you start saving and investing as soon as you start earning, you will reap the benefits of financial freedom sooner rather than later.
  • 6.The importance of saving money is simple: It allows you to enjoy greater security in your life. If you have cash set aside for emergencies, you have a fallback should something unexpected happen. Once you’re in the habit of saving, you’ll forget there was ever a time when you didn’t save. In this area of life, the habits you build will make all the difference.

Start your financial journey with GSave
For those who want to begin their journey to financial stability, look no further. GSave, the first-ever savings account which you can open and maintain on your GCash app, has now built the GSave Marketplace — helping you control your money conveniently through safe and secure digital banking.

The GSave Marketplace lets users select a bank partner depending on their needs. Whether it’s interest rate or account accessibility, GCash provides trusted bank partners for you, including CIMB Bank and BPI.

With CIMB Bank, your money can grow at 2.6% interest per year - one of the highest rates in the country.. Meanwhile, with BPI, users can now open a BPI MySaveUp account through the GCash App, allowing them to easily view their balance, deposit and withdraw at their own convenience. BPI account holders will also be issued an ATM card for their account, so they can access their funds via BPI branches and ATMs nationwide.

Following through with its promise to provide a hassle-free experience to its customers, all you have to do to start your banking journey with GSave is a valid ID to verify your GCash account. Through GSave Marketplace, users can rely on and easily access where users can choose from a variety of saving products.

Get started on your savings today with GSave!

To know more about the service, visit https://help.gcash.com/hc/en-us/sections/360004696233-GSave

2022/07/30

Is It a Happy Ending for DonBelle in “HE’S INTO HER” SEASON 2?

7/30/2022 12:15:00 AM

 

The DonBelle (Donny and Belle) love team became a hit because of their love team tandem in His Into Her, with the characters of Max and Deib. Now, as the series ends, will Max and Deib have an end game, or is it game over?  

The fairytale-like romance of the two lovebirds may really be over as their personal problems cause them to slowly drift apart in the much-awaited ‘kilig’-filled finale episode of the phenomenal, record-breaking series, “He’s Into Her” season 2, on iWantTFC.

“He’s Into Her” captured the hearts of viewers as the most streamed original series on iWantTFC and the most watched weekend program on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s Kapamilya Online Live.

The award-winning show, which has also been consistent in trending topics on social media, is now gearing up for the highly anticipated “HIH: All-Access” finale concert on August 27 at Araneta Coliseum, wherein VVIP and VIP tickets sold out in less than an hour.

In the latest turn of events in the series, ever since Max and Deib decided to cool-off, their relationship has faced great uncertainty. They have decided not to get back together just yet, even though it has been confirmed that Boyet (Janus del Prado), Max’s uncle, was not the one who shot Dale (Turs Daza), Deib’s older brother.

Although their families have finally made peace and have given their blessing for their relationship, Max and Deib’s problems will only intensify due to the shocking death of Dale. Deib will have a difficult time coping with the loss of his brother, and will suddenly grow distant from everyone around him, including Max.

Max, on the other hand, will struggle to help Deib recover despite all her efforts. Because of this, Deib will also have second thoughts about attending their school’s senior ball - giving Randall (Jeremiah Lisbo), Max’s first love and ex-boyfriend, a chance to be her date to the event.






 


The ‘bearkada’ will also have to resolve their own issues leading up to their graduation, which is supposed to be the ‘best time of their lives.’ Lee and Naih (Joao Constancia and Criza Taa) will try to fix their misunderstandings amidst their breakup, while Michiko (Kaori Oinuma), who declared her love to Dale before his death, may finally get her long-awaited closure from her ex-lover Tob.

Will Max and Deib be able to rekindle their romance? Will the bearkada’s tight-knit friendship be able to overcome their issues?

Find out what will happen to Max and Deib’s love story in the finale episode of “He’s Into Her” season 2 on August 3 (Wednesday), 8 PM, which streams for free on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com).



Viewers can get easy access to iWantTFC's content library with its "watch now, no registration needed" feature. Watch iWantTFC on a larger screen with select devices, including VEWD, ROKU, and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia), and VIDAA in select countries. Visit https://bit.ly/iWantTFC_TVDevices for a complete list of compatible devices, sign-in instructions, and account activation.

For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWantTFC and follow @iwanttfc on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantTFC. For inquiries and concerns about the service, users can also send a message on iWantTFC’s Facebook page or e-mail support@iwanttfc.com.


2022/07/29

SM Supermalls welcomes you into a new era of change

7/29/2022 06:43:00 AM

 

Change is inevitable! The only permanent in this world is change. 

The honest truth: No one came out of the COVID-19 pandemic in quite the same way. The pandemic was an isolating period of self-discovery, emotional growth, and life-altering realizations. It changed people, and in the process, it shaped the way so many of us view ourselves and the world around us.

Because of this, consumer tastes and behaviors have shifted. Where in a pre-pandemic world, people often spent on luxuries and experiences that allowed them to celebrate their accomplishments, studies show that consumers now want a different experience, one that is kinder and more embracing of the changes that each individual had gone through in the past 2 years. People are now prioritizing their personal wellness and supporting products and services that champion growth.

As consumer tastes have shifted, brands are starting to adapt to these changes. And true to its foundational commitment to make people happy, SM is ready with a host of new offerings as the entire brand is poised for a refresh this year.




 
“The history of SM Supermalls is one that has been built on innovation and change to serve the needs of millions of Filipinos,” says SM Supermalls President, Steven Tan. “We’ve been with our customers through their every milestone for almost four decades. And we are committed to always changing, always growing with our customers in the years and decades to come.”

SM Supermalls: Welcoming Every Change in You

SM continues to stay true to its mission to provide Filipino families with a fun and engaging in-mall experience so they can go home with a smile on their faces.

There will always be a plethora of experiences for each person who comes through SM’s doors. This is true for the various personalities that emerged during the pandemic; from eco-warriors and Plantitas to health buffs and sports personalities who embraced biking, healthy eating, and home gyms, and bakers and homemakers who turned their passion projects into small businesses.



 
“I believe that now more than ever, it is important to recognize the new changes to our world,” adds SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “And people are continuing to grow as they invest in experiences that uplift their lives.”

Ushering the Future with the Transformation of SM Supermalls

In the next few months, Filipinos across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao will get to experience the wellness-oriented and sustainability-driven transformation of SM Supermalls with a host of new and exciting activities. These include paw parks for pet moms and dads, al fresco dining areas for hangout groups, plant hubs for eco-enthusiasts, bike facilities for the growing cycling community, co-working spaces, experiential retail, blockbuster and larger-than-life cinema escapades and so much more.




As SM’s brand refresh campaign ushers in a newness to the Philippine mall experience, curious visitors, foodies, friends and families will have much to rediscover. So come on in, you’re always welcome here!

For more information, follow SM Supermalls on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smsupermalls to experience what’s new in any SM Supermall near you today!

2022/07/28

JobStreet bags two awards at the 19th Philippine Quill Awards

7/28/2022 07:04:00 AM


 

JobStreet once again proves its industry leadership as the country’s top online job portal and career partner as they recently bagged two awards at the esteemed 19th IABC Philippine Quill Awards.

This year, the company secured recognitions for its entries Going Hyperlocal: JobStreet's Microsite Launch under Marketing and Brand Communication Category; and COVIDCOMMS 2021: Boosting the Job Market through JobStreet’s Government Virtual Career Fairs under Government Relations Category. 

Aiming to help boost the job market in provinces, the campaign “Going Hyperlocal '' introduced local employment opportunities in Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao with helpful guides and resources written in their respective dialect through a dedicated microsite platform. This initiative allowed province-based hirers to easily connect with nearby candidates and likewise encourage job seekers in finding jobs that matter in their locality to help decongest Metro Manila during the pandemic.

The other entry entitled “Boosting the Job Marketing through JobStreet’s Government Virtual Career Fairs” is in partnership with the Civil Service Commission which was held in 2020 and 2021. The program aimed to help boost the job market and economy by bringing together jobseekers and companies to present new employment opportunities nationwide, conveniently through a mobile-first design application and series of webinars.

“Since the pandemic, JobStreet has been ensuring the welfare of both our hirer and candidates and we are honored that our initiatives have been acknowledged by IABC Quill awards. This recognition only drives us to continue our mission of giving Filipinos the jobs that matter paired with insightful guidance to help them thrive in their industries and professions,” shared JobStreet Philippines Country Manager Philip Gioca.

JobStreet has been actively extending its support to help stabilize the labor market through career webinars, virtual career fairs, and more to equip candidates in the new normal. Last year, JobStreet took home four awards for its #TogetherAhead: JobStreet’s Response to the Covid-19 Impact program which aimed to provide job seekers and employers support, resources, and inspiration amidst the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To learn more about JobStreet’s upcoming initiatives and activities, visit jobstreet.com.ph.

Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex: A sterling landmark of disaster resilience

7/28/2022 12:54:00 AM

 

The foundation of the Mall of Asia Complex was built to be safe and secure because SM Prime Holdings, Inc., one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers incorporates disaster resiliency measures in every project, with the MOA Complex as one of its biggest investments.

SM Prime collaborated with a team of local and international experts to ensure the feasibility of both water and land before the MOA complex was built and once finalized, Belgium’s renowned coastal development construction company, Jan de Nul, developed it from the ground up.

The reputable Jan de Nul made sure the terrain was stable and the complex’s roads were made resistant to earthquakes and erosion, in accordance with the National Structural Code of the Philippines and approved by both the Philippine Reclamation Authority and the National Government.

Three important disaster resiliency features were used in protecting the Complex and the coastal community of Pasay from tides and waves: One, a three-kilometer seawall built to stand against liquefaction; two, a meter-high inverted wave return to serve as defense against high waves; and three, a drainage channel to prevent floods during storm surges. This was put to test when Typhoon Pedring hit in 2011, and the Mall of Asia Complex was spared from destructive waves and flooding that submerged many other surrounding establishments.

As an added feature, both the Complex’s main road and all its structures are elevated 4 meters above the parameters set by the National Building Code. Pilings strengthened its foundation and greatly improved its soil bearing capacity.


 
Family fun, leisure and entertainment are the objectives behind the awe-inspiring grandeur of SM Mall of Asia, but this vision is founded on a commitment to safety and a secure foundation throughout the Complex. This is a firm philosophy of SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Mr. Hans T. Sy, a champion for disaster resilience, who continuously invests in DRR and in allocating 10% of the company’s expenditure for DRR in all of SM’s infrastructures throughout the country.

“Today, disasters have become more frequent and severe. The government and the private sector must work together to find solutions for greater resiliency.  SM prime as a responsible property developer places Disaster Risk Reduction as one of its core strategies. It simply makes good business sense.” emphasizes Mr Hans Sy. He believes that not only is DRR an effective way to grow the business but it protects the communities where SM is located amid the increasing risks of climate change.

Today, the MOA Complex is a bustling realization of Mr. Henry Sy Sr.’s grand vision for it to become both a premiere integrated leisure destination with a complimentary business and lifestyle district – one of the country’s truly revolutionary mixed-use developments, and a thriving example of disaster risk reduction at work. The next time you visit the MOA Complex – whether it is to visit the world’s largest IKEA, or to view the sunset from the top of the MOA Eye, or to simply shop and dine with your loved ones – it will be good to know that SM Prime has ensured your safety and security from the time the development was conceptualized and opened in 2006.. to today and tomorrow.

2022/07/24

AJ Raval, pregnant, has a kid, and then what?

7/24/2022 10:48:00 PM

 

The sensational sexy star, AJ Raval, is in the heat with the alleged news that she is pregnant. A few weeks after came out another alleged news about her having a child.

So, what's the truth about this rumor buzzing around in the showbiz industry? Is it or is it not. So far, the only truth is that we are all guessing and speculating about the story. But, there's a saying "may tenga ang lupa at may pakpak ang balita."

Things will unravel at the right time. As Big Brother says "sa takdang panahon [at the right time.]"

If you miss seeing the sexy star you can always check out Vivamax to select movies of AJ Raval.

Here are some that I know.
  • Iskandalo
  • Kaliwaan
  • Hugas
  • Shoot shoot! Di ko siya titigilan!
  • Taya
  • Death of a Girlfriend
  • When I Grow Up, I want to be a P*rnstar



 

ABS-CBN NEWS AIRS “SONA 2022” MULTIMEDIA COVERAGE FOR FILIPINOS

7/24/2022 02:45:00 PM

 

Filipinos can watch the first State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on how the new administration plans to address the different challenges that the country is facing through ABS-CBN’s “SONA 2022” multimedia coverage on Monday (July 25).

ABS-CBN News will stream “SONA 2022” live on Facebook (Facebook.com/abscbnNEWS), YouTube (YouTube.com/ABSCBNNews), the ABS-CBN News app, iWantTFC, and on its website (news.abs-cbn.com). Audio streaming is also available via the ABS-CBN Radio app and on TeleRadyo’s YouTube channel.

On television, broadcast journalists Alvin Elchico and Jeff Canoy will kick off the “SONA 2022” coverage of TeleRadyo at 2 pm, while Peter Musngi and Rica Lazo will lead the coverage starting at 5:30 pm. On ANC, the “SONA 2022” coverage will air starting at 3 pm with Karmina Constantino and Ron Cruz as anchors.

Viewers can also catch the comprehensive “SONA 2022” coverage on Kapamilya Channel and A2Z with Henry Omaga-Diaz and Karen Davila starting at 3:20 pm.

For more ABS-CBN updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Shaping Future Filipino Tech Leaders with Shopee's Global Leaders Program

7/24/2022 02:43:00 PM

 

The rapid growth and development of the tech industry over the last decade calls for a new way of molding future tech leaders. In order to keep up with the fast-paced industry, there is a need to equip future leaders with a global perspective and a constant desire to learn. Part of equipping them with such skills includes expanding their scope of work to enable them to gain new competencies and exposure to different peers, colleagues, business functions, teams, markets, and more—all of which are crucial in training future tech leaders.

This is exactly how Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, develops young leaders in tech. The Global Leaders Program (GLP) is Shopee’s 2-year flagship graduate program open to final year students and young professionals with up to two years of work experience. The program consists of 4 rotations among Shopee’s different departments, 2 of which are overseas. Throughout the duration of the training, participants are given the chance to receive mentorship from senior management, work on the end-to-end processes of highly impactful projects, and gain exposure from the various departments of both local and international Shopee markets.

Recently, Shopee Philippines welcomed its newest and biggest batch of GLP associates through a casual mixer to get to know one another, meet their senior management mentors, and heed advice from GLP alumni. The event introduced participants to the vibrant and collaborative culture at Shopee, and gave them a better understanding of what to expect as they begin their journey.

Karen Perez, Head of People at Shopee PH, shared “We are thrilled to welcome our largest batch of Global Leaders Program associates to date. As they embark on their journey at Shopee, it is our privilege to provide them with mentorship, a dynamic work environment, and meaningful work experiences. We are deeply committed to honing the skills of local talent and we look forward to delivering even more opportunities to help young Filipino professionals reach their full potential.”

This year’s batch of GLP associates is a diverse mix of fresh university graduates as well as previous Shopee Apprentices and interns. Included in the batch is Graciel, a GLP associate currently assigned to Shopee Xpress. She was a 2021 graduate of the Apprentice Program, Shopee’s flagship internship program. As an Apprentice, she worked under the Seller Operations and SeaMoney Credit team. Likewise, Neal and Lovella, were participants of Shopee’s year-round internship program under the Marketing and Consumer Insights teams, respectively. A year later, they are now GLP associates and will begin their first rotation under Business Development. On the other hand, Alyana had extensive internship experience in the fields of e-commerce and marketing. She was able to successfully channel her knowledge and skills to begin her journey as a GLP associate under the Marketing team.

Alyana, one of this year’s GLP associates currently completing her first rotation under the Marketing department, shared “There is no better place for me to build my career in tech than at Shopee. As an avid user of the app, I am excited to gain a new perspective on e-commerce through this experience. I am confident that the collaborative work environment and the mentorship that I receive from industry leaders will help me grow as a professional and further my career in tech.”

For Luca, another associate who started the first part of his GLP journey under the platform’s integrated mobile wallet ShopeePay, the overseas rotation aspect of the program appealed to him the most. He shared “The GLP offers participants such a unique learning experience. I am looking forward to completing my rotations abroad and gaining regional exposure from the different Shopee markets at such an early stage in my career. I believe there’s so much that I can learn from immersing myself in different cultures and working under different departments and hopefully apply in our local context.”

Meanwhile, Graciel, who was previously a Shopee Apprentice, begins her GLP journey with Shopee Xpress. “With the many processes and initiatives that we take on as GLP associates, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to ask for help. I’m grateful that Shopee fosters such a strong culture of collaboration and teamwork because I learn a great deal from asking questions and seeking advice from my mentors,” she shared on her experience navigating the workspace.

Shopee is always on the lookout for local talent keen on becoming drivers of growth. Those looking to challenge themselves and build a career in tech may visit https://careers.shopee.ph/.

Karla Bids Goodbye to "MAGANDANG BUHAY"

7/24/2022 02:30:00 PM

 

Last Friday, July 22, Karla Estrada officially bid farewell to her "Magandang Buhay" family in a special send-off celebration of the show as she embarks on a new career as a public servant.

She thanked the show and her co-hosts, Melai Cantiveros and Jolina Magdangal, for their friendship and bond they shared in the program.

"Nag-uumapaw ang puso ko sa pasasalamat. Babaunin ko sa bagong yugto ng aking buhay ang mga itinuro ng kwento ng aking 'Magandang Buhay.'Thank you Momshie Jols and Momshie Mels dahil sa journey natin na may pare-pareho tayong hinarap. Alam ko na hindi ako nawala sa isip niyo, at kayo naman dalawa ay hindi nawala sa isip ko," she said.

Karla earlier penned a message on her Instagram account stating that leaving the program was a tough decision for her. "Naging mabigat ang desisyon (pero) mas naging matimbang ang pag-unawa ng isa’t isa," she shared.

Jolina and Melai also expressed their support for Karla as they knew from the start that she wanted to serve more people outside the program.

"Very, very happy kami Momshie Karls kasi mula umpisa ito na yung kwinento mo sa amin. Nakikita namin na isinasabuhay mo yung pinagdaanan mo dati na itinuro mo sa mga anak mo. Isinasabuhay mo yung pagtulong. Hindi na yun pwede tanggalin sa iyo at hindi na yun mananakaw. Very proud kami sa iyo na nagagawa mo ito freely and very happy kami kasi nandito ka na sa mundong gusto mo," Jolina said.

"Ito kasi yung gusto niya yung makatulong sa iba hindi lang dito sa 'Magandang Buhay' kundi sa labas pa.Kami dito sa Magandang Buhay, kaibigan mo kami dito. Kahit ayaw ka namin umalis ka rito, pero ang hangad mo yung kabutihan ng tao, so ito ibibigay namin sa iyo. Nandito lang kami para sa iyo," Melai added.

But before this, the three momshies reminisced some memorable moments they shared in the last five years.

Karla’s daughters, Magui and Carmella Ford, and her close friends in the industry, Negi and Kaladkaren, also graced the morning show and shared their messages for her in her new journey.

Catch this farewell episode of Karla this Friday on "Magandang Buhay," which now airs at 10 AM on A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, and Jeepney TV, Kapamilya Online Live on ABS-CBN Entertainment's YouTube Channel and Facebook page, iWantTFC, and The Filipino Channel.

For more ABS-CBN updates, follow @ABSCBNPR on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok or visitwww.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Reminiscing Our Childhood Days with the Return of ToyCon

7/24/2022 02:24:00 PM

 


Every childhood memory comes with toys. No matter what kind of size, shape, and texture, we all play ay least once in our life. We only stop playing not because we grew old, but because of our obligations and necessities.


 
This year, the yearly gathering and exhibitions of toy collectors, hobbyists, enthusiasts, and manufacturers gathered again after a few years of hiatus due to the Covid19. Dubbed "Back to Basic," they returned to the place where it all started, the SM Megamall Megatrade Hall.



 
I remember attending my very first ToyCon in 2012. It was at the Megatrade Hall of SM Megamall. Fun, happy, and crowded with lots of cosplayers, toys, and exhibitions. It was like a haven for avid toy collectors and for the kids.

Seeing the abundance of toys, nearly all the characters-superheroes and cartoon characters- that we've grown up with are at ToyCon. If your nirvana is the rarest and most unique toy, you'll definitely find it at the convention.


 
It may sound weird but seeing these toys brings back happy childhood memories. Though we may not bring back those old broken toys, the best part is that we carry the joy of playing. I remember the line of Michael V in one of his vlogs, "...Matanda na tayo kaya hindi nabtayo naglalaro, pero ang totoo hindi na tayo naglalaro kaya tayo tumatanda." (We're old that's why we stop playing, but the truth is we're not playing anymore that's why we're getting older.)



The pandemic might have affected us but with the opening of ToyCon, we're now back to our childish hearts.

2022/07/23

Executive Secretary, Overwhelmed or Lack of Experience?

7/23/2022 11:44:00 AM


Today, our kwento or story is about politics and government concerns. We're here to point out matters that affect us as citizens of this country. Today, our kwento or story is about politics and government concerns. We're here to point out matters that affect us as citizens of this country.

This time it's about the Executive Secretary or what many often call it as "Little President." The reason it is called "Little President" is because of the power the position holds.

Here are some points why the position is described as Little President. Or in a best possible term to understand is the duties and responsibilities of the Executive Secretary:

1. Implementing presidential directives, orders and decisions; 2. Supervise various agencies under the Office of the President, and appoint officials whose appointments do not need the President’s approval. 3. The Executive Secretary also has the power to sign papers such as executive orders “by authority of the President.” 4. And decide on matters for and on behalf of the President if they don’t require the Chief Executive’s personal attention.

In the entirety of our Philippine Government History, the post of Executive Secretary has been held by distinguished men since it was created in 1936. Lawyer Jorge Vargas, the first Executive Secretary, was appointed by President Manuel Quezon after serving as chief clerk of the Department of Interior and legislative secretary to then-Speaker Sergio Osmeña.


 
Manuel Roxas, the fifth President of the Philippines, also served as Quezon’s Executive Secretary from December 1941 until March 1942, just a month before he was captured by Japanese forces.

As what most expert says, eExperience is a major consideration in appointing the “Little President.” The Executive Secretary needs to hit the ground running, with barely any time to learn how to navigate the labyrinthine maze of the bureaucracy. Owing to the demands of the job, past Presidents picked Executive Secretaries who had proved their mettle through the posts they’ve held over the years.

ErnestO Maceda, a cum laude graduate of the Ateneo Law School, served as councilor of Manila—and was named Outstanding Councilor— before becoming the youngest Cabinet member of then-President E. Marcos as Secretary of Community Development at 29 years old. He served as Marcos’ Executive Secretary in a concurrent capacity as Chairman of the Commission on Reorganization from July 1969 to February 1970.

Joker Arroyo held the record as the human rights lawyer who handled the most number of cases between 1972 and 1986 before becoming then-President Corazon Aquino’s first Executive Secretary in 1986. Franklin Drilon served as Labor Secretary for three years and Justice Secretary for one year before his appointment as Aquino’s Executive Secretary in 1991.

Teofisto Guingona, who went on to become Vice President under the Arroyo administration, served as senator for six years before his appointment as Executive Secretary. He also chaired the Commission on Audit from 1986 to 1987. Ronaldo Zamora worked under the Marcos and Aquino administrations prior to becoming President Joseph Estrada’s first Executive Secretary from 1998 to 2000.


 

The longest serving Executive Secretaries were appointed in the past three administrations: Eduardo Ermita, Paquito Ochoa and Salvador Medialdea held the post for six years under Presidents Gloria Arroyo, Benigno Aquino III and Rodrigo Duterte, respectively. Both Ochoa and Medialdea were lawyers while Ermita was a three-term congressman from Batangas who also handled the national defense portfolio under Arroyo.

Compared to many of his predecessors, Vic Rodriguez’s resume comes up a little bit short.

Accordingly, he was barangay captain of Sacred Heart in Quezon City for 10 years before becoming special assistant to the chief of the Business Permits and Licensing Office in 2002 under then-Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. He later became the officer-in-charge of the city’s Community Relations Office.

Rodriguez’s profile rose when he became spokesperson and chief of staff of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the run up to the 2022 elections. He was named Executive Secretary shortly after Marcos won as President.

The administration’s recent blunders have shown Rodriguez’s ineptness for the job. The appointment of Archipelago Philippines Ferries-FastCat owner Christopher Pastrana as Philippine Ports Authority General Manager has been met with criticism owing to perceived conflict of interest and his company’s supposed P132-million debt to the Department of Transportation.

So far, Pastrana’s appointment remains in limbo. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has instead designated a long-serving ports manager to become PPA’s officer-in-charge GM until further notice.

Former Energy chief Raphael Lotilla’s appointment also hit a snag as Malacañang appeared to have been remiss in vetting his credentials. Republic Act 7638 or the Department of Energy Act of 1992 prohibited the appointment of an Energy Secretary who used to be an officer of a private company engaged in the energy industry within two years from his resignation or retirement.

Lotilla, however, was an independent director of Aboitiz Power Corp., and the oil and gas exploration firm ACE Enexor. The Department of Justice later affirmed his nomination as “valid and lawful,” but not after the Palace’s head-scratching clarification that Lotilla’s appointment was a “nomination” for now.

Rodriguez’s hand was also seen in Marcos’ veto of the bill creating the Bulacan Airport City ecozone, which disappointed lawmakers and investors. He claimed there were “defects” that should be remedied by passing an entirely new legislation.

Philippine Star columnist Jarius Bondoc said there’s no one but Rodriguez to blame for the administration’s recent snafus. “From murmurs in Malacañang, Rodriguez had it coming. Supposedly he re-centralized to his office functions formerly dispersed to other units. That made him powerful, if overloaded,” Bondoc said.

Rodriguez has apparently taken upon himself to vet candidates for thousands of presidential appointees. No wonder the announcement of appointments is moving at a snail’s pace, with a number of key vacancies still unfilled.

For all his talk about being close to Marcos, one would think Rodriguez wants nothing more than the administration to succeed. But he seems bent on bringing his principal down, one wrong decision at a time.

This time it's about the Executive Secretary or what many often call it as "Little President." The reason it is called "Little President" is because of the power the position holds.

Here are some points why the position is described as Little President. Or in a best possible term to understand is the duties and responsibilities of the Executive Secretary:

1. Implementing presidential directives, orders and decisions;
2. Supervise various agencies under the Office of the President, and appoint officials whose appointments do not need the President’s approval.
3. The Executive Secretary also has the power to sign papers such as executive orders “by authority of the President.”
4. And decide on matters for and on behalf of the President if they don’t require the Chief Executive’s personal attention.

In the entirety of our Philippine Government History, the post of Executive Secretary has been held by distinguished men since it was created in 1936. Lawyer Jorge Vargas, the first Executive Secretary, was appointed by President Manuel Quezon after serving as chief clerk of the Department of Interior and legislative secretary to then-Speaker Sergio Osmeña.

Manuel Roxas, the fifth President of the Philippines, also served as Quezon’s Executive Secretary from December 1941 until March 1942, just a month before he was captured by Japanese forces.

As what most expert says, eExperience is a major consideration in appointing the “Little President.” The Executive Secretary needs to hit the ground running, with barely any time to learn how to navigate the labyrinthine maze of the bureaucracy. Owing to the demands of the job, past Presidents picked Executive Secretaries who had proved their mettle through the posts they’ve held over the years.

Ernesto Maceda, a cum laude graduate of the Ateneo Law School, served as councilor of Manila—and was named Outstanding Councilor— before becoming the youngest Cabinet member of then-President E. Marcos as Secretary of Community Development at 29 years old. He served as Marcos’ Executive Secretary in a concurrent capacity as Chairman of the Commission on Reorganization from July 1969 to February 1970.

Joker Arroyo held the record as the human rights lawyer who handled the most number of cases between 1972 and 1986 before becoming then-President Corazon Aquino’s first Executive Secretary in 1986. Franklin Drilon served as Labor Secretary for three years and Justice Secretary for one year before his appointment as Aquino’s Executive Secretary in 1991.

Teofisto Guingona, who went on to become Vice President under the Arroyo administration, served as senator for six years before his appointment as Executive Secretary. He also chaired the Commission on Audit from 1986 to 1987. Ronaldo Zamora worked under the Marcos and Aquino administrations prior to becoming President Joseph Estrada’s first Executive Secretary from 1998 to 2000.

The longest serving Executive Secretaries were appointed in the past three administrations: Eduardo Ermita, Paquito Ochoa and Salvador Medialdea held the post for six years under Presidents Gloria Arroyo, Benigno Aquino III and Rodrigo Duterte, respectively. Both Ochoa and Medialdea were lawyers while Ermita was a three-term congressman from Batangas who also handled the national defense portfolio under Arroyo.

Compared to many of his predecessors, Vic Rodriguez’s resume comes up a little bit short.

Accordingly, he was barangay captain of Sacred Heart in Quezon City for 10 years before becoming special assistant to the chief of the Business Permits and Licensing Office in 2002 under then-Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. He later became the officer-in-charge of the city’s Community Relations Office.

Rodriguez’s profile rose when he became spokesperson and chief of staff of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the run up to the 2022 elections. He was named Executive Secretary shortly after Marcos won as President.

The administration’s recent blunders have shown Rodriguez’s ineptness for the job. The appointment of Archipelago Philippines Ferries-FastCat owner Christopher Pastrana as Philippine Ports Authority General Manager has been met with criticism owing to perceived conflict of interest and his company’s supposed P132-million debt to the Department of Transportation.

So far, Pastrana’s appointment remains in limbo. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has instead designated a long-serving ports manager to become PPA’s officer-in-charge GM until further notice.

Former Energy chief Raphael Lotilla’s appointment also hit a snag as Malacañang appeared to have been remiss in vetting his credentials. Republic Act 7638 or the Department of Energy Act of 1992 prohibited the appointment of an Energy Secretary who used to be an officer of a private company engaged in the energy industry within two years from his resignation or retirement.

Lotilla, however, was an independent director of Aboitiz Power Corp., and the oil and gas exploration firm ACE Enexor. The Department of Justice later affirmed his nomination as “valid and lawful,” but not after the Palace’s head-scratching clarification that Lotilla’s appointment was a “nomination” for now.

Rodriguez’s hand was also seen in Marcos’ veto of the bill creating the Bulacan Airport City ecozone, which disappointed lawmakers and investors. He claimed there were “defects” that should be remedied by passing an entirely new legislation.

Philippine Star columnist Jarius Bondoc said there’s no one but Rodriguez to blame for the administration’s recent snafus. “From murmurs in Malacañang, Rodriguez had it coming. Supposedly he re-centralized to his office functions formerly dispersed to other units. That made him powerful, if overloaded,” Bondoc said.

Rodriguez has apparently taken upon himself to vet candidates for thousands of presidential appointees. No wonder the announcement of appointments is moving at a snail’s pace, with a number of key vacancies still unfilled.

For all his talk about being close to Marcos, one would think Rodriguez wants nothing more than the administration to succeed. But he seems bent on bringing his principal down, one wrong decision at a time.



About Me

About me
Hi!, This is Marco a.k.a. Toto Blogger and Publisher. I created this blog to provide stories, personal experiences, entertainment, and insights on products I like. I'm here to share and inform you (readers) on things about music, movie, food, travel, and events.

You can also meet my wife on her blog www.mommysmaglife.com.


For project collaborations, product reviews, event invitations, or hotel and resort experience reviews, kindly email me at marcopolojdemo@yahoo.com.



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