Kwento Ni Toto

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Ace Banzuelo's "Walang Himala" embraces a darker, more melancholic turn on breakup song

Toto 11:11:00 PM

Following the chart-topping success of “Muli” and the release of its viral music video starring ABS-CBN stars Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, Ace Banzuelo returns with another potential hit that is guaranteed to whet the appetite of music fans across the country.

Released under Sony Music Philippines, the Filipino recording artist’s new single “Walang Himala” carries the inherent weight of dealing with a partner’s betrayal. The melancholic synth-pop track serves as antithesis to Banzuelo’s earlier song Himala: a sad little tune that reduces listeners to a pool of misery, written as if he hibernated for months in his own mancave— devoid of light, and completely immersed in the grieving process.

“Walang Himala’s emphasis on betrayal can be interpreted in multiple ways,” shares the Laguna-based singer-songwriter and producer. “It’s not afraid to embrace a darker, more lamenting turn. Coming from ‘Muli,’ this particular track reeks of angst and frustration in the most human way possible. Some people have experienced it at some point in our lives. It’s my way of comforting them as a songwriter/musician.”

Channeling ‘80s synth-pop with modern R&B textures and brooding themes, Banzuelo reflects on loss and loneliness with a more matured perspective. Sonically speaking, “Walang Himala” retains his signature glossy synth production on top of a playful storytelling that connects his past and present releases. “My music provides a strong multiple set of stories, and this new track follows the storyline of Himala,” the Muli hitmaker points out.

According to the young multi-hyphenate, the most memorable moment for him during the recording process is coming up with the introduction and a first verse. The line “ang hirap,” which means, “it’s difficult” really stuck with him; hence, playing around with it as part of the song’s main hook. “Another memorable moment was coming up with the chorus because I didn’t have to revise it. I knew it had to be those words: Walang himala, mali ako pala (translation: There’s no miracle; it’s my fault),” shares Banzuelo, putting more context to the lyrics’ poignant rough spot.

“Walang Himala” is written, produced, mixed, and mastered by Ace Banzuelo himself. The song is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Listen here: http://lnk.to/AB-WalangHimala

Who is this 100 Million Man Blind Item Buzz in the Government?

Toto 7:11:00 AM

Are you familiar with the Six Million Dollar Man? Well, it is a TV show in the 70s. The series is about an astronaut injured due to a crash and operated to be like a cyborg. Thus, giving him superhuman strength, speed, and power, led him to battle evil.

Unfortunately, we're not going to talk about the series but the similar situation from a different perspective, a negative standpoint.

"100 Million Man" has been the talk in the news lately. A lot of news networks and anchors are talking about this man. Allegedly, an influential official in Malacañang is tarnishing Marcos Jr.'s administration with his deeds. If our Steve Austin in Six Million Dollar Man is doing a good deed, this alleged person is doing the opposite. He's using his influence by making money from the companies up to the positions in the government.

According to some buzz, this person known as El Kapitan of the administration is very close to the President. He's taking advantage of the situation.

What's intriguing about the person is that he asks for One Hundred Million Pesos (Ph100M) from people who want to have a position in the government, especially the so-called "juicy position" - these are the positions in government where you can get easy money.

Anyone who can provide the 100 million pesos El Kapitan will personally arrange the papers to get appointed to the preferred position.

What's worse with this El Kapitan or El Kupitan is that he does this even during the election, his modus operandi. Allegedly, all of the transactions with the business owners are the same. It starts with P100M and is even higher if the business owner is well off. All of them allegedly have the same stories.

Allegedly, there was also a story of a business owner who believed to be making his move to be noticed by PBBM by donating a sum of money, unfortunately, El Kupitan gave a bank account number registered to his name.

Now, this business owner doesn't have any idea if the donation reached to where it should given.

Aside from being coined as "Mr. 100 Million Man," El Kupitan was also given another name as "Silidonyo," it is describe as "silid dito, silid doon."

With this, people around PBBM are worried that this person might stain the image of the President and the whole administration.

According to the source, the clue is that Mr. 100 Million Man, aka El Kupitan is a Raketista with a R in his name. It's up to you to guess who it is.

Monday, July 18, 2022

Wellness

Cutting Edge Therapy: Buela Physical Therapy Clinic Opens Cainta Branch

Toto 6:02:00 AM

Bad posture always comes because of our bad habits and undisciplined exercise. Sometimes our posture causes some body pains and if untreated it might cause much more damage to our body.

Physical therapy clinics are now being recognized because of the treatments they provide. Thus, we should always look out for qualified and certified ones.

Buela, one of the most advanced physical therapy clinics in the country, has opened another branch in the Metro East Area at the Garden Walk Mall in Cainta, Rizal. Buela boasts of cutting edge technology in their clinics using the latest machines in physiotherapy. Coupled with well-trained physiotherapists and in-house medical doctors, Buela offers a complete and holistic approach to physical therapy.

From L-R (front): Department of Tourism USEC Woodrow Maquiling Jr, CEO of Buela Physical Therapy Clinic Corporation Gerald R. Buela, Hon. Judge Liezel A. Aquiatan, and National Polo Team member Eduardo Miguel Lopez. From L-R (back): PBA Players; Jervy Cruz and John Wilson, SEA Games Medalists Edwin Giron and Mark Harry Diones

There is a notion that physical therapy is only for post-stroke patients or those recovering from accidents, but physical therapy can benefit everyone. This is pain management that aims to fix the root of the problem, dealing with every muscle, sinew, nerve, and bone that causes the major or minor aches that plague daily life, such as back pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, scoliosis, to name just a few. Some patients think this is something you have to live with, but relief is possible with physiotherapy. Athletes of all levels can also look to Buela to boost their performance and be more resilient to injuries and to treat muscles that are overused in relation to their sport.

Gerald Buela, CEO of Buela Physical Therapy Clinic and a licensed physiotherapist himself, has a personal mission to raise the level of the profession. “That's my advocacy, to elevate and push the boundaries of what this practice can achieve through technology and physiotherapy.” Buela is elevating the PT (Physical Therapy) industry, by bringing in top of the line machines from abroad. “It's the latest technology so the Philippines doesn’t fall far behind,” he says. ”Most of the Physical Therapy clinics in the Philippines are quite traditional. I want to transform the industry into one of the most advanced in the region.”

The physiotherapists and staff of Buela Physical Therapy Clinic

All the machines at the Buela clinics are the latest models. The clinic touts an advanced approach using these machines that aid in various therapies: Myofascial Dry Needling, Microcurrent/Macrocurrent Therapy, Deep Radiofrequency Heat Therapy, Vibration Therapy, Manual Therapy (joint mobilization and spinal manipulation), Postural Correction Program, High-Intensity Laser Therapy, Focused Shockwave, Traction Therapy, Tecartherapy. Patients undergo a thorough screening and medical assessment by doctors and therapists to determine which treatment is most beneficial for their areas of concern.

There is a misconception that physical therapists are similar to massage therapists, but physical therapists or physiotherapists are licensed medical professionals whose field of study takes five years. While massage deals with the muscles, physical therapy can go deeper dealing with muscles, bones, and nerves, affecting the totality of the body. “Our promise is to fix your problems one posture at a time,” explains Buela. When you don’t fix the posture, the muscles aren’t activated properly, the pain and discomfort will return. The machines also target tissue at a deeper level that a simple massage cannot reach. “Massages are good for relaxation, but you need physical therapy for pain and discomfort.”

Gerald Rivera Buela – CEO of Buela Physical Therapy Clinic Corporation. Buela's goal is to make physiotherapy a part of people's healthy lifestyles.

Cost is also something that precludes people from getting the physical therapy that they need, often choosing to pop a pill for the pain. But that solution is temporary, especially for those with chronic pain. People don’t often realize that their health card coverage includes physical therapy, and a visit to the Buela clinic can bring them more lasting relief.

Buela’s sleek and industrial chic interiors of blue gray, wood and steel is aimed at trying to do away with the cold and antiseptic feel of physical rehabilitation clinics, treating it more like going to a spa, gym or an aesthetician, while still getting the level of treatment you would get at the most advanced physical rehabilitation center. “Some of our patients don't do well in hospital settings. Their progress is very minimal, and they don't find the level of pain relief they desire,” explains Buela. Hospitals also don't do certain treatments, like dry needling, a practice whose roots trace back to acupuncture but have now combined with Western research.

The Buela PT interiors of slate blue with wood accents may look like a spa, but the clinic utilizes the most advanced tools in physical therapy.

Buela has not only invested in machines, he also invested in people. The Buela clinic makes it a special point to design the staff area of the physical therapists to be as nice as the rest of the clinic. This does a lot for staff morale, as the staff room is usually the most neglected part of any establishment. Buela, who worked as a physiotherapist himself, knows the ins and outs of the industry and champions that therapists be treated as professionals. It’s only logical that happier staff can give better service. “I pay them a premium, twice as much as the average. I want physiotherapists to feel ownership of the space and to be comfortably working in that space. Compared to other clinics, we pay them double. I really value our people.”

During the pandemic a lot of lifestyles have become sedentary. The work from home setup, which continues even through a hybrid setup, has resulted in a lot less time for moving and socializing, often just remaining at your desk for the whole day. This has resulted in a lot of posture problems that result in or compound all manner of bodily aches and pains. “What we want to give to them is freedom from pain,” declares Buela. ”That way you can work more efficiently, have better relationships, and live your best life.”

Buela Physical Therapy Clinic is located at Unit 2R, The Garden Walk, 105 Felix Avenue, Cainta, Rizal.

Alabang Branch: Unit 2504 Entrata Urban Complex, Civic Drive, Filinvest, Alabang, Muntinlupa City

(02) 869-32428

+63 975 670 2478

@buela_physicaltherapy
www.facebook.com/buelaphysicaltherapy
customercare@buelaphysio.com
www.buelaphysio.com

Saturday, July 16, 2022

updates

AIA PHILIPPINES Getting Inclusive with their Offer of Same-Sex Beneficiary Inclusion

Toto 11:57:00 PM

With the changing world, uncertainty is always present. The future is uncertain, and one must be prepared for anything. To make protection more inclusive, the country’s premier life insurance company, AIA Philippines, allows customers to enlist their same-sex partners as beneficiaries, as aligned with the Insurance Commission’s position on the matter.

With this update, AIA Philippines customers can enlist their partners as beneficiaries of their existing and future policies, regardless of their marital status. If the customer and beneficiary are married, they would need to submit a marriage certificate or other proof of marriage to be enlisted as a policy beneficiary.

“Everyone should have the means to protect their loved ones from life’s many risks, and expressing love and responsibility to those we care about should not be limited by how we identify as people. Our promise of helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives is for all,” Kelvin Ang, AIA Philippines CEO said. “With these adjustments in place, our LGBTQ+ customers can protect their loved ones through AIA Philippines’ innovative offerings.”

If the couple is not yet married, same-sex partners may still be approved as beneficiaries if declared together with family members. Those who wish their partners to be sole beneficiaries may still be allowed on a case-to-case basis, requiring documents that show proof of their relationship. Customers may inquire with their AIA Philippines financial advisor for more details.

This inclusion pertains to active policies and products to be procured by customers in the future. Hence, whether you’re a current AIA PH customer or if you’re looking to invest in the future, you can enlist your same-sex partner as a beneficiary upon submission of the requirements. With this update, protection from life’s many uncertainties is no longer limited to heterosexual partners.

This update is in line with the Insurance Commission’s affirmation that any individual, regardless of gender identity, may designate any individual as a beneficiary, subject only to certain exceptions under the Civil Code.

Life is unpredictable, and no one knows what tomorrow may bring. And AIA Philippines is committed to ensuring that a healthier, longer and better life is available to all its customers no matter what.

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

updates

"IT'S SHOWTIME" DEBUTS LIVE ON TV5 WITH MADLANG PIPOL

Toto 11:41:00 PM

Viewers were delighted to see the madlang pipol join the whole "It's Showtime" family in the explosive opening number of the first live episode aired on TV5 last Saturday (July 16) that trended worldwide on Twitter.

Vice Ganda stated that this is a new opportunity for them as they continue to wish and pray for better days."Dahil palagi natin mina-manifest ang better days. Another big door has opened for all of us. What's up madlang pipol, what's up mga Kapatid!"the Unkabogabole Phenomenal star added.

Vhong Navarro thanked TV5 for opening its home to the Kapamilya noontime show. "Maraming salamat TV5 dahil hindi kayo nag-atubiling pagbuksan kami ng pintuan para mas maging pangmalakasan ang pagpapalaganap namin ng good vibes sa ating mga madlang pipol,"Vhong said.

Meanwhile, Anne Curtis is excited about the upcoming surprises they have in store for the madlang pipol."Sa mga na-miss kami, isang virtual hug at isang nice to see you again. Alam mo excited na talaga ako sa mas funmalawakan, harutan , tawanan, at bonding kasama kayo,"she expressed.

Aside from Vice, Vhong, and Anne, their co-hosts Jhong Hilario, Ogie Alcasid, Karylle, Kim Chiu, Amy Perez, Jugs Jugueta, Teddy Corpuz, Ryan Bang, Jackie Gonzaga, and Ion Perez also voiced their happiness and gratitude about the show airing on TV5.

After the explosive opening number, viewers were also hooked on the second semifinals of "Showtime Sexy Babe." The 14 semifinalists proved their worth to make it to the grand finals as they impressed judges Kylie Versoza, Ruffa Gutierrez, and Jameson Blake in the "Ooh La Lakad" and "Hot-Tanungan" portions.

In the end, Jubilyn Sabino, Sam Coloso, Kim Velasco, Maxine Abliter, and Zoe Cameron were announced as the five Sexy Babes who will proceed to the coveted grand finals. Next week, viewers should watch out for the returning Sexy Babes who will have their second chances in the Wildcard week of "Showtime Sexy Babe."

Don't miss the excitement and fun on "It's Showtime," 12:45PM on A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, ABS-CBN Entertainment's YouTube channel, and Facebook page, as well as on the iWantTFC app (iOS and Android) and iwanttfc.com. Outside the Philippines, it is also available on cable and IPTV via The Filipino Channel. Also, watch the hilarious episodes of Showtime Online Universe on ABS-CBN's YouTube Channel, "It's Showtime's" YouTube channel, and Facebook page.
v Follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates, or visitwww.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

With ShopeePay Day: Mark your calendar and Send Money and win over 1M worth of prizes and more!

Toto 11:07:00 PM

ShopeePay is making saving easier for everyone! With features that allow you to send money for free, buy discounted load, earn bills payment cashback, and more, Shopee’s integrated mobile wallet definitely enables you to have greater cost savings with every payment and transaction. To top it off, users have something exciting to look forward to as ShopeePay Day kicks off on July 16. Watch out for exciting promos and rewards when you use ShopeePay every 16th of the month!

Enjoy rewards and huge prizes when you send money for free
Stand a chance to win up to ₱1M worth of prizes with Happy Hour Plus. To join, simply transfer a minimum of ₱50 to any ShopeePay user and play the lucky draw to win up to 7,000 coins per hour. Send money as many times as you like to get more chances of winning! Do not worry about additional fees because sending money to any bank, e-wallet, or Shopee user is free with ShopeePay.

Still looking for more rewards? On July 15 and 16, verify your ShopeePay wallet and send money for the first time to get Free Money. Lucky users who will send money to 100 friends via ShopeePay Ang Pao on July 15 to 16 can also earn ₱500.

Save on fees and receive cashback when you cash in
From July 13 to July 18, receive up to ₱50 cashback when you cash in with InstaPay (minimum cash-in of ₱1,000). Earn up to 100 Shopee coins when you cash in at least ₱1,000 during Happy Hour.

Get exclusive discounts for bills and load
For those looking to get more value for their hard-earned money, especially after payday, ShopeePay is also offering cost-saving deals for necessities like ₱100 worth of load for only ₱1 and up to 100% cashback on bill payments this July 16.

Don’t miss out on all these rewards. Not yet a ShopeePay user? Activate and verify your ShopeePay wallet in time for ShopeePay Day. Here’s how:

To learn more about ShopeePay, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopee-pay. Follow ShopeePay’s Instagram and Facebook pages to be updated with the latest promos.

Thursday, July 14, 2022

updates

The Pros and Cons of Owning A Car in the Middle of a Crisis

Toto 10:34:00 PM

We are still in the pandemic and the health crisis has greatly affected everyone and everything in the world. From big businesses down to the very small enterprises and entrepreneurs.

With the imposed lockdown we are all forced to stay in the house, off from our works, and away from the streets. As much as possible sole confinement.

Perhaps one of the in-demand thing to use aside from health related machines are cars or any form of vehicles. It is very useful especially if you're 'the chosen one' who will buy the needs of the family.

Though cars are indeed in demand, production, selling and buying were actually limited due to the restrictions of the pandemic. If you know about business, I'm sure you already know the implication of the situation. Like in our place in Quezon City, there were lots of car distributors who were forced to close their shops. Not only because of the overhead expenses but because of the inability to make sales. I think I read something about the same status of the car industry that mentioned about the drop in sales. If I'm not mistaken it was in the Wall Street Journal It's a big lose for car companies even a slightest drop.

With our experience during the onslaught of Covid19, it made me and my wife think of owning a car. During the lockdown it is much easier and faster for people with vehicles to go to the grocery stores, unlike us who don't have any vehicles need to walk kilometers away to buy the necessities. It is indeed a must have during emergencies and when there are uncertain situations.

We got too excited that we checked out some of the known car brands and the models. We got into a heated discussion expressing what each of us want in the vehicle we're planning to own. Checked out the brands like Mitsubishi, Nissan, Hyundai, Toyota and many more. We even discussed if we could have family van or just a plain car where four of us can be accommodated. Probably the most weird action that we did was checking the car loans that the banks are offering and what's even more advance thinking was that we computed the possible monthly car payment that we need by accessing car payment calculators that you can find online. With this, we can at least have a ball figure of the finances that we need to accumulate monthly.

Like any other cases, there's always the pros and cons when owning a vehicle. So, we must always weigh it in order for us to consider and make a decision. Here are what we have listed so far.

Pros

1. It is much faster and easier to go to places we want to visit.
2. There is always a feeling of security.
3. It is helpful when we're carrying heavy loads.
4. We can easily avoid places with heavy traffic

Cons

1. High price of fuel and maintenance cost.
2. Hassle of scheduling the maintenance of the vehicle.
3. We always need to consider parking.
4. Possibility of car accident or got stuck in a traffic.

So, until now we're still trying to find our common grounds to agree, but at least we were able to agree on the idea that we need to have more source of income for the car loan in order for us to own a car.

How about you, what are your consideration when you're planning to buy a car?

Monday, July 11, 2022

TV Series

iWantTFC's "Beach Bros" Made Chie woos Kyle and Kyle goes Yolo

Toto 11:38:00 PM

If you missed the beach, then you'll definitely miss it even more as you watch the series of Kyle Echarri together with the other young and entertaining cast of Beach Bros.

Kyle Echarri swears to live by his “you only live once” motto as Chie Filomeno attempts to win him over in “Beach Bros.” The iWantTFC original series, which also stars Angelica Lao, Kira Balinger, Brent Manalo, Raven Rigor, Sean Tristan, and Lance Carr, streams for free this July 16.

Kyle and Chie, who spread 'kilig' as former housemates of "PBB Kumunity" celebrity edition, will be playing each other's love interest in the series. Dave (Kyle) is the charming leader of a group of happy-go-lucky teenage boys known as the “Baler Boys” - Billy, Jeremy, Jason, and Pete (Lance, Sean, Brent, and Raven).

The five boys are working hard as waiters and pool boys at a luxury resort in order to fulfill their dreams to live a comfortable life and move to Manila.

Despite their easy-going attitude, they are also dealing with their own inner struggles. Dave is trying to convince his mother to allow him to go to Manila for college; Billy is having problems with his goal-oriented girlfriend Yasmine (Angelica); Jason is secretly in love with rich girl Erika (Kira); while Pete has suppressed feelings for his best friend.

The boys’ lives will change when they get entangled in the affairs of Nicole (Chie), an alluring, mysterious, and hot chick who will seemingly help them navigate through their teenage crises.

As Nicole gets closer to the boys, especially to Dave who seems to have fallen in love with her, they will soon find out that Nicole actually has a scheming hidden agenda.

The boys will find themselves going on a crazy adventure as a series of revelations, betrayals, and mishaps begin to unravel - that will ultimately test their maturity, and most importantly, their friendship.

Will Dave and his friends be able to resolve their issues? What deep secret is Nicole hiding?

“Beach Bros,” which is directed by Victor Villanueva, will be available for free on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com) beginning this July 16.

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. Additionally, iWantTFC is available via Chromecast and Airplay. Visit https://iwanttfc.com/help#tfc-on-smart-tv 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.

updates

Be Entertianed with “Sing Kulitan” of Young Aspiring Artists on TV5’s Sing Galing Kids

Toto 10:08:00 PM

Great news to all kaawitbahay out there! TV5’s original Videoke Kantawanan ng Bansa, Sing Galing, is back with cute and bubbly contestants as the show officially launches its latest edition featuring young aspiring singers in Sing Galing Kids, premiering this July 16, Saturday, at 6:00 pm.

It’s that time again to sing along and release your karaoke skills as this fun kiddie edition promises to be an exciting show with a new roster of Jukebossess and the original Sing Masters - Randy Santiago, K Brosas, and Donita Nose.

Sing Galing Kids will be one of the highly anticipated TV5 shows this year as prominent artists from the Philippine music industry will be joining the panel of Sing Galing Kids Jukebosses: the Fearless Diva Jona, Pinoy Hip-Hop Superstar Gloc-9, Asia’s Phoenix Morissette, and Champion Diva Ethel Booba.

Also joining the show are Sing Galing’s beloved mascot, Genie, and Digiverse Master Zendee who will be joined by her adorable and lovely Junior Singtokers Yoyo and Tyronia. Queenay and Sing Galing’s Ultimate Bida-oke grand champion Mari Mar Tua will be the “Arkidia Ates” who will be hanging out with the kiddie contestants.

“Very thankful and blessed ako dahil ako ang napiling makasama dito sa Sing Galing Kids! Sobrang nae-excite ako kasi cute na cute po ako sa mga bata,” “Arkidia Ate” Queenay said. “Syempre, abangan niyo, may special role kami dine. Dapat n’yong abangan (yung show)! Nakaka-excite talaga.”

It was fun having interviewed the two Arkidia Ates. While talking with them you'll know and feel that the kids will also have the same fun with them.

As for the Singmasters, Randy Santiago, K Brosas, and Donita Nose, they will definitely make the whole Sing Galing Kids show entertaining.

Don’t miss the premiere of Sing Galing Kids this July 16 and witness how this generation’s talented young artists bring out their vocal prowess to become the next videoke champion on TV5.

Friday, July 8, 2022

Updates.

Appointment of Philippine Ports Authority General Manager is in Question

Toto 3:14:00 PM

With the new administration, changes are happening in all of the agencies of the government. All are unstable just like the honeymoon period, trying to make things work out for the betterment, but sometimes this traditions must give way when very dangerous tendencies strart rearing their ugly heads. And that is exactly what happened when incoming ES Vic Rodriguez announced the appointment of Christopher Pastrana as General Manager of the Philippine Ports Authority.

The appointment reportedly caught the 2 other members of the screening committee, Naida Angping and Anton Lagdameo by surprise. More importantly, the appointment was announced at the same time as that of incoming DOTR Secretary Jimmy Bautista, even before the latter has even accepted.

And that was critical, because since PPA is an agency attached to the DOTR, such should have been vetted with him. That courtesy was extended to incoming Finance Secretary Ben Diokno, who had a say in the appointments of the respective heads of BSP,BIR and BOC. But not in the case of PPA. And the plot thickens, once one starts going deeper to find out who Pastrana is, and who his business partner is.

Pastrana is the President of two companies- Archipelago Philippines Ferries Corporation and Philippine Archipelago Ports and Terminal Services and Philharbor Ferries and Port Services. Archipelago owns FastCat ferries, while Philippine Archipelago operates port terminals.

These consideration should have legally disqualified Pastrana from being appointed to PPA, or to any other government agency that regulates his businesses. But it seems that ES Rodriguez failed to see this, even if Pastrana’s business partner is Dennis Trajano, Rodriguez’s bilas (their wives being sisters). Trajano, in fact, sits as Chairman of the board of both companies. But wait, there’s more, Pastrana’s brother-in-law is also a port operator himself, a certain Rommel Ibuna. As a result, Pastrana will end up regulating not only his businesses and that owned by his brother-in-law, but also lord it over the businesses of their competitors.

So, what do you think of this?

Thursday, July 7, 2022

updates

PLDT Home, Google launch Be Internet Awesome online series

Toto 7:49:00 PM

Following its partnership announcement to further strengthen efforts in educating Filipino kids and families about internet safety and digital responsibility, the Philippines’ leading home broadband and digital service provider PLDT Home and Google joined forces in creating a kid-oriented video series online.

The Be Internet Awesome online series combines animation and live action — featuring Gen Alpha whiz Sam and his trusty friend Robo-berto in fun-filled yet enlightening adventures on how to be smart, alert, strong, kind, and brave online. The series is based on the values of Google’s Be Internet Awesome global program and is directed by Manny Angeles, an award-winning director and producer of kid-oriented and animated shows.

Photo shows (L-R): PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Home Group, Jeremiah de la Cruz; Google Philippines Marketing Head, Gabby Roxas; and First Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Product Management and Marketing, John Henri Yanez at the series’ media launch.

Available in both English and Filipino in the Philippines, Be Internet Awesome aims to teach children the fundamentals of leading a digital life which includes what kind of information to post on social media and how to deal with cyberbullying among others. This is part of the many efforts of Google to help keep people safe online.

“Our children are true digital natives. They grew up with the internet and everything the digital world has to offer. But as they broaden their horizons for discovery and learning, it also exposes them to risks and dangers,” said Jeremiah de la Cruz, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Home Group, PLDT Inc. “Through this original series, we at PLDT Home want to translate the teachings from Google’s Be Internet Awesome program into an entertaining and practical show that children can enjoy watching while learning about online safety early on.”

Be Internet Awesome aims to teach children the fundamentals of leading a digital life which includes what kind of information to post on social media and how to deal with cyberbullying. The series features the character Robo-berto, pictured here with children at the Be Internet Awesome launch.

“PLDT Home’s partnership with Google for Be Internet Awesome aligns with our larger group-wide commitment: to strengthen customer-centricity. At PLDT, we not only find ways to simplify technology and experience for our customers, but we also strive to do business responsibly by putting their safety and well-being at the forefront of all our products and services,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, President and CEO of PLDT Inc. And Smart Communications, Inc.

In 2021, PLDT also invested over P2 billion in cybersecurity and protection filtering. The country’s largest integrated telco has since been very active in detecting, responding, and preventing both domain and content-level access to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) within the network. PLDT’s Child Protection Platform has blocked almost 300,000 URLs linked CSAM by the end of May and prevented more than a billion attempts to access these illegal sites from November last year to May this year.

Be Internet Awesome’s lead characters - Sam Elora (L) and Robo-berto

“After launching Be Internet Awesome in 2021 in the Philippines, we are glad to have found a like-minded partner in PLDT who champions the same values when it comes to protecting kids online. Through PLDT and more potential partners in the future, we hope to scale Be Internet Awesome and provide more families with a practical way of teaching digital safety and wellness to their children so they can become responsible, confident explorers of the online world,” said Bernadette Nacario, Country Director of Google Philippines.

The Be Internet Awesome online series will premiere on the PLDT Home YouTube channel on July 8, 2022.

updates

It's time reward yourself this mid-year by checking out these 7 bagsak-presyo tech items at the Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale

Toto 6:47:00 AM

We’ve officially crossed the first half 2022, but there’s still a lot to look forward to as we welcome the last few months of the year. And what better way to celebrate the mid-year madness than catching the best deals on Shopee at the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale? Now’s the perfect time to check out those tech items you’ve been eyeing, as you can get these at bagsak-presyo prices this 7.7! You can also enjoy a wide array of ₱49 deals and below, shipping discount vouchers, and 10% off vouchers when you add-to-cart and check out your must-haves at the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale.

And for lucky number 7, we’ve handpicked 7 of the hottest tech deals to kickstart the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale:

Get a grip on your busy days with this Haylou Waterproof Smart Watch, equipped with health and sleep monitoring, 12 sports modes, weather notifications and music functions. Craving those unreachable, beautiful views? Explore the world using this Dual Camera FPV Drone so you can conquer the scene and reach heights for better travel memories for you and your friends thanks to its 4K double camera, three-sided infrared avoidance, and 100-meter distance features. Be on top of your game with this Adjustable High Back Gaming Chair, complete with a wide backrest and adjustable heights and tilts so you can have that customized comfort while in battle. Unlock the touch-screen potentials of your phone, iPad, or tablet with this handy Stylus Pen, perfect for taking down notes, signatures, and drawings.

Make your home safe and comfortable with the help of these must-haves! Embrace extra safety in your front door with this auto-sensing Spray Sterilizer, complete with 3 spray modes, 320-mL capacity, and easy-to-install pieces. Cooking and convenience go hand-in-hand with the TJean Air Fryer, non-sticky and hassle-free to navigate with its pre-set menu and timers. Be your own barista with this Hibrew Espresso Machine, which comes with easy to use large buttons and displays, a retro-stylish look, and a 15-bar pressure for ground coffee to help serve you that much-needed punch of delicious espresso.

More exciting offers await at the Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale

Aside from these amazing bagsak-presyo items, get exclusive deals and discounts at the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale from top brands such as Abbott, Pedigree and Whiskas, Colgate-Palmolive, Omega Houseware, Ace Hardware, Pampers, Garnier, L'Oreal Paris, Maybelline, P&G Beauty, Olay, Havaianas, LOVITO, Huawei, OPPO, and infinix.

You can also score ₱7 deals every 15 minutes during the Lightning Flash Hour sale this 7.7 Mid-Year Sale. Get a chance to take home a new laptop or TV just by checking out ₱7 deals from 12-1PM and 8-9PM this 7.7. To know more about these amazing deals, visit the Lightning Flash Hour Sale page on Shopee.

While still choosing what to checkout this 7.7, join the Mukha Ng Panay Checkout Sa Shopee raffle to get a chance to be one of the lucky 5 winners who will take home ₱10,000! Just show off your best Shopee-inspired shopping photo and use the Mukha Ng Panay Checkout Sa Shopee Facebook frame in order to join. Visit the Mukha Ng Panay Checkout Sa Shopee post to know more about the raffle.

The mid-year surprises don't stop there! Activate and verify ShopeePay now to get more rewards when you send money, buy load, and pay bills. Send money for free and get a chance to win ₱1,000,000 worth of prizes with the ShopeePay Mission promo. To join, simply send at least ₱50 to any unique ShopeePay user or bank/e-wallet account from July 1 to 7 and earn raffle entries for every transaction. Don’t miss out on ShopeePay-exclusive deals on load and cashback vouchers for bills payment this mid-year sale. For more rewards, use ShopeePay to get shipping discounts when you pay for your 7.7 bagsak-presyo finds. For more details on the latest promos, follow ShopeePay’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

To know more about the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale, visit the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale page on Shopee.

Tuesday, July 5, 2022

updates

Meet The Relentless Rizaly

Toto 6:20:00 AM

Twenty years ago, high school student Rizaly Lim and her four siblings would watch in awe every time they pass by the construction of the first SM City in her hometown Sta. Rosa, Laguna. All five children, packed in the tricycle their father rides for a living, were all excitedly looking forward to happy family weekends they would be spending at the huge mall.

Today, after graduating Summa Cum Laude through a scholarship from SM Foundation, Rizaly is now a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) working as Accounting Manager for the head office of SM Prime Holdings, a leading property developer in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

From SM Foundation scholar to SM Prime accounting manager At a young age, Rizaly was headstrong about getting her family out of poverty. She shares, “My father was the only one who worked for our family, and because we were a large family, his daily earnings as a tricycle driver were never enough.”

Rizaly finished high school at the Balibago National High School as class valedictorian in 2005 and was already sending applications for other college scholarships when her teacher asked the top 10 students to go to SM City Sta. Rosa for an interview with SM Foundation.

“Sa umpisa, hindi po ako naniwala kasi bago pa lang sa amin noon ang SM City Sta. Rosa,” she recalls. She proceeded of course, driven by the one goal of finishing college and helping her family. “Gusto ko rin po makapag-aral at makapagtapos noon. Maka-work at makatulong sa family.”

A few exams and interviews later, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) went to visit her and her family at home to inform them that she will be receiving a full scholarship with monthly allowance until she finishes her course.

In 2010, Rizaly graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accountancy. She went on to pass the Philippine CPA Board Exams on first try in October 2010. The assistance of SMFI, she said, went beyond tuition and allowances. “With full scholarship grants and monthly allowances, as well as the opportunity to work at SM Store during our summer and Christmas vacations, the SMFI scholarship has enabled me to help my family financially.”

“I am the master of my fate”
While other parents were buying their college kids the latest Nokia phone back in the summers of 2000’s, Rizaly’s father gave her and her siblings weekly assignments to accomplish during the summer vacation. “Our late father instilled in us the love of reading and the value of studying,” she shared. “During summer, he would assign us English words and their meanings to memorize and asked us to recite these to him.“

Then there's the memorization of motivational poems and speeches, one of which stuck with her for life: “It matters not how strait the gate, how charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.” She shared that this last stanza of “Invictus” by W.E. Henley had kept her motivated to look past the limitations of her circumstances and focus on her personal goals.

Career at SM
SM Foundation was established in 1983 by Henry Sy, Sr. and Felicidad T. Sy as the heart of the SM group. It has established programs that are focused on nurturing and caring for underserved communities where SM is present. It supports and empowers host communities through education, healthcare, shelter, disaster response, sustainable agriculture, and care for persons with special needs.

To date, SM Foundation has assisted more than 8,000 college and technical/vocational students, and has donated over 100 school buildings with a total of 334 classrooms built across the country.

Nurturing the graduates extends beyond the classroom as SM Foundation also provides job opportunities across the different companies of the SM group. The foundation organizes a Career Fair specifically designed for its scholars.

From the Career Fair organized by SM Foundation, Rizaly was able to get job offers from three companies – among which was SM Prime Holdings, one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia that offers innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities with the development of malls, residences, offices, hotels and convention centers. It is also the largest, in terms of asset, in the Philippines.

I still want to level up
“I haven't accomplished much yet, but I value what I have already accomplished and received so far,” said Rizaly, referring to the highest honors she has received in high school and college, becoming a CPA, and being promoted to manager in within only a few years of her work at SM Prime. “These are just a few of the accomplishments for which I will be eternally grateful. I'm also proud of my daily achievements at work, such as fulfilling particular duties assigned to me. They make me happy and proud of myself, and they inspire me to do better.”

“Ang mga dating pinapangarap ko lang, nagagawa ko na ngayon,” Rizaly said as she related how she has been able to travel to Taiwan for vacation and do the tri-city tour of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. But her biggest dreams, she said, remain centered on her family: to provide better for her family by sharing with them what she has now. “Nothing is simple. Nothing is easy. Hindi ko naman to straight line lang na na-achieve. Life is full of challenges. Just stay strong, keep the faith and always give your best effort.”

Monday, July 4, 2022

updates

SUN LIFE Launches it's Newest Campaign to Celebrate the People Who make Our Lives Brighter

Toto 11:35:00 PM

“Who is your ideal partner?” This is probably one of the common questions when it comes to seeking that special someone and it is also one of the many questions that basically ask who you can depend on.

So, "Who is your ideal partner?" This is a question that many of us have pondered during this pandemic, as we found solace in the company of friends and family amid various challenges.

Whether it’s opening a dream business amid the uncertainties, discovering a new hobby, or engaging in charitable endeavors, life is always brighter when we have a partner who will be there for us through ups and downs. This was the inspiration behind Sun Life Philippines’ latest campaign that highlights its brand promise of Partner for Life.

The message is depicted in a fun and vibrant music video featuring Sun Life brand ambassador Piolo Pascual, set against singer-songwriter Johnoy Danao’s song “Bright Like the Sun” in the background. Danao’s composition perfectly captures the special bonds in our lives, while exuding hope and optimism for the future having experienced the pandemic.

In the same way, Sun Life is ready to be the Filipinos’ partner for life when it comes to their financial goals even during uncertain times.

The No. 1 and longest-standing life insurance company in the Philippines, Sun Life has a wide range of solutions that can help Filipinos get closer to their financial goals no matter what life stage they may be in. Additionally, over 20,000 Sun Life advisors nationwide can provide quality service and advice for those in need of a partner in their financial journey. Those ready to find a bright partner may connect with a Sun Life advisor through http://www.sunlife.co/TalkToAnAdvisor.

During the media event of Sun Life, Piolo, their number one (1) supporter shares bits of info about his relationship with the brand, Sun Life It was even disclosed that Piolo is frugal when it comes to himself but very much generous when it comes to his loved ones.

To further inspire Filipinos, the campaign will also feature a host of activities, including a Tiktok promo where they only need to stitch Piolo’s video with a candid moment featuring the people they consider their partners to the tune of Johnoy’s “Bright Like the Sun.” Participants will get a chance to win a special trip to bond with loved ones. Tiktok users can also create a duet video with Piolo as he sings lines from “Bright Like the Sun” and the Top 10 entries will be awarded ₱1,000 worth of Giftaway vouchers.

The promo mechanics, along with other campaign updates and activities, will be announced soon on Sun Life’s Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok accounts. Those interested are encouraged to follow @sunlifeph on these social platforms.