Sterling Bank signs agreement with Unla La Corp.

Sterling Bank of Asia (SBA), one of the country’s leading thrift banks, and Unla La Corp., a Dagupan-based company, forged a partnership to help streamline Unla La’s business operations further.

“With this partnership, we would like to help Unla La Corp. to become an even more trusted partner in making life easier for its customers,” said Ralph Cadiz, SBA EVP and Retail Banking Group Head.

Unla La Corp. specializes in providing a wide range of services

in selected Pangasinan areas, including delivery and app development.

The company plans on expanding in other Pangasinan towns and provinces to exhibit its dedication to simplifying the daily life of its customers by ensuring that every errand is effortlessly managed.

"We are thrilled to partner with Sterling Bank to enhance the overall experience for our customers," said Unla La Corp. CEO Raul Delos Santos. "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing seamless and reliable services, and we are confident that it will bring immense value to our customers," he added.

Sterling Bank has provided Unla La Corp. with an online payment gateway for their website and mobile app, enhancing the ease and security of transactions for users. Additionally, Sterling Bank has implemented a system for payroll crediting, streamlining, and automating Unla La Corporation's operating processes.

For more information about Sterling Bank of Asia, please visit www.sterlingbankasia.com.

To know more about Unla La Corp. and its services, please visit www.unlala.ph

MWC Shanghai 2024: HONOR Unveils Industry's First AI Defocus Eye Protection and AI Deepfake Detection

Manila, Philippines, June 28, 2024 – Global technology brand HONOR revealed two industry-leading on-device AI innovations created to empower individuals and introduce a new level of user safety. During its keynote at MWC Shanghai 2024, titled “The Human-AI Synergy: Intelligent Devices Will Empower People Better,” HONOR showcased its latest advancements in human-centric AI, AI Defocus Eye Protection and AI Deepfake Detection. During the keynote session, the brand also reiterated its focus on human-centric on-device AI and its belief in the potential for AI-enabled hardware to empower users by delivering tailored services while protecting user privacy. 

 

Evolving Eye Protection Technology from Prevention to Relief 

  

Introducing the latest advancements in eye-protection technology, HONOR launched AI Defocus Eye Protection at MWC Shanghai. Noting the global increase in cases of nearsightedness caused by long-term screen usage, this technology leverages AI to simulate defocus glasses on the smart device’s display. 

 

Wearing defocus glasses is proven to be conducive to eye health as they intentionally induce controlled defocus in the user’s peripheral visual field to help maintain clear central vision. This effect creates an altered visual perception that slows down the eye elongation process, which leads to nearsightedness. Taking eye protection from prevention to creating technology that can lead to relief for consumers, HONOR’s AI Defocus Eye Protection has been shown to decrease users’ transient myopia by 13 degrees on average after reading for 25 minutes, with some users experiencing a maximum reduction of 75 degrees. 

 

Mitigating Fraud with AI Deepfake Detection 

  

Circumventing the risks presented by cloud-based “deepfake” AI technology, HONOR has introduced AI Deepfake Detection. To help prevent fraud and detect digitally manipulated content, AI Deepfake Detection examines frame-by-frame information such as eye contact, lighting, image clarity, and video playback to identify flaws that are imperceptible to the human eyes. 

Additionally, the AI Deepfake Detection has been trained through a large dataset of videos and images related to online scams, enabling the AI to perform identification, screening, and comparison within three seconds. If synthetic or altered content is detected by the feature, a risk warning is immediately issued to the user, deterring them from continued engagement with the potential scammers for their safety. 

 

For more exciting announcements and cool tech, head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.  

AXE releases 3 new Fragrances Proven to be Finer Than Perfumes

AXE has been around for more than 40 years, and since 1983, the innovative fusion of an eau de toilette and deodorant has proven to be a success for men worldwide. AXE once again shakes up the fragrance game by introducing a new collection that offers the essence of luxury for the man who wants to smell fresh, bold, and finer than fine. 

Here's the data to back it up. In a blind test against some well-known high-end fragrances, 8 in 10 men agreed they would replace their current cologne with AXE's latest innovation—the Fine Fragrance Collection. Formulated by the best "noses" in the fragrance business right now, it's no wonder AXE's new scents got that many positive reviews and continues to get more by the day. 

Who are the "noses" in the fragrance industry? These are the only the best of the best who craft fragrances for some of the biggest luxury brands in existence today. Fragrance houses Givaudan and Firmenich and iconic perfumer Ann Gottlieb have both thrown their hats into the AXE ring and have created unforgettable scents using high-quality ingredients, but at price points for the everyday man to enjoy little luxuries in life without breaking the bank.

  

With its venture out into the world of fine fragrances, AXE stays authentic to its core—a body spray that is the perfect hybrid between a Fine Fragrance and a deodorant, evoking elegance and luxury with every spritz.

 

With the introduction of the Fine Fragrance Collection, not only are the scents created with high-quality ingredients, but AXE has also upped the ante when it comes to neutralizing odor. With Zinc Zap technology, it is designed to keep you feeling fresh and protected for 72 hours, guaranteed. That's three days of smelling as fine as you can be.

 

And when you smell as good as these fine fragrances could be, you won't mind. Choose from this range of scents, all in a league of their own, each evoking a different, confident vibe--Aqua Bergamot, Blue Lavender, and Emerald Sage.

 

Aqua Bergamot

Crisp and sparkling like crystal blue waters, Aqua Bergamot is as bright, light, and cool as its name. With essential oils of Bergamot, Sage, and Juniper, this is the scent if you're an island bro. Its earthy sandalwood and spicy nutmeg give this scent a remarkable "land and sea" harmony, lending modernity to this classic scent.

 

Blue Lavender 

Calm and collected, lavender and mint with amber notes mix to send a smooth, rich, and peaceful aroma. Think of this scent as a striking balance of sweetness and light, a bite of Italian gelato on a warm summer's day. It is a refreshing scent for the summer but with the headiness of warmth from the vanilla and tonka bean notes.

 

Emerald Sage 

Love the outdoors? Emerald Sage may be the scent that harkens to nature's call. Infused with Geranium, Cedarwood, and Indonesian Patchouli, this scent is the most worldly of the three. Its top notes are Moroccan spearmint, French lavender, and Canadian Fir Balsam, with herbs and spices like Indian cardamom and the enduring scent of Virginian Cedarwood, among many others. All these ingredients are hailing around the globe, bottled, and created for you.

 

AXE continues to change the scent game with its Fine Fragrance Collection. Discover your new signature scent now.

Get Photographed by the Studio Harcourt Paris through HONOR 200, coming soon in PH!

Manila, Philippines, June 27, 2024 – Leading smart devices provider, HONOR, has unveiled its partnership with Studio Harcourt Paris credited to the contribution of AI Portrait Engine to the HONOR 200 Series. The prestigious Studio Harcourt is known for its Black and White Portraits, seen on actors such as Karl Lagerfeld and Cate Blanchett.  

 

“We’re taking portraits to a new level with the HONOR 200 Series! We’re confident that the upcoming AI Portrait Master will wow fans, and we’re even surprised to have successfully sealed the partnership with the reputable Harcourt Studio Paris. Now we’re bringing it to the Philippines! We can’t wait to offer another premium mid-range smartphone in the market,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.  

 

As seen in this video, the Studio Harcourt Paris is renowned for its black and white signature portrait. 
 

The Studio Harcourt in Paris is conceived by Cosette Harcourt, an exceptional and modern woman who boldly lent her name to the studio, and the Lacroix brothers in 1934. 

  

The aesthetic of the Harcourt photographic portrait draws its heritage from the glamour of the golden age of black-and-white French cinema, a style of which the HONOR 200 drew inspiration from for its classic and timeless appeal that redefines phone portraiture.  

 

Stay tuned for HONOR’s big announcements soon. Head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.  

 

Ant International and Partners Support Almost 100 Million MSMEs, Launches Global “Embrace the Power of Small” Campaign

[PHILIPPINES], 27 June 2024 – On 2024 International MSME Day, Ant International, a digital payment and financial services leader, shares that it supports almost 100 million Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) worldwide across its businesses and partner programs; and reinforces its commitments towards MSME digitalization and inclusion through the expansion of its services, new programs for skills development with industry partners, and a new global campaign.

 

“MSMEs are the lifeblood of our economies, driving innovation, employment, and inclusive development,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Their resilience and entrepreneurial spirit deserve to be celebrated and nurtured. At Ant International, we firmly believe in the power of small and that small businesses can make a big impact. Fintech innovations today unlock new possibilities for small businesses to dream boldly and compete globally. Together with our partners, we want to ensure that every business and every person will have access to the knowledge, network, and digital tools to help them achieve their goals.”

 

Empowering growth for MSMEs through digitalization

 

Across its businesses, Ant International offers solutions that enable MSMEs to digitalize, opening new growth opportunities.

 

Alipay+, the cross-border mobile payments and marketing solutions operated by Ant International, announced an expansion of its global acceptance. As of June 2024, Alipay+ is accepted by over 90 million merchants in over 66 markets, connecting businesses to users of 30 international payment partners. With travel picking up and tourism a key driver of many local economies, this enables many small businesses to connect with global mobile-first consumers in a simple, cost-efficient manner.

 

A key development in driving digitalization at scale is through Alipay+’s integration with national QRs. Alipay+ is currently integrated with the national QRs of Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea, which counts MSMEs as majority of its merchants. In Singapore, Alipay+ transactions at hawker stalls have increased 52% in H1 2024, compared to H2 2023. In Malaysia and South Korea, Alipay+ transactions increased 44% and 54% respectively via PayNet and ZeroPay, in Q2 vs Q1 2024. Alipay+ also has partnerships with national QRs in Cambodia, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

 

As a leading provider of digital payment solutions, Antom supports merchants of all sizes, including MSMEs, across over 40 countries and regions. Through a single integration, Antom connects them to more than 250 payment methods in over 150 markets. Its D-store solution enables MSME merchants to digitalize their operations and set up an online store in just 10 minutes with zero upfront cost. Over 5000 outlets have already onboarded this solution, with average monthly transactions growing by 27% in Q2 vs Q1 2024.

 

In supporting MSMEs to do business globally, WorldFirst empowers more than 1 million SMEs with international payments to 200+ markets in over 100 currencies. To enable more SMEs to do cross-border trade, WorldFirst will expand to more markets in Southeast Asia and Europe this year. ANEXT Bank, a digital wholesale bank incorporated in Singapore, recently celebrated its second anniversary, with two times year-on-year increase in its customer base, of which 69% are micro businesses. To further support regional MSMEs, ANEXT Bank has introduced its second batch of SME Friends of ANEXT with forward-thinking small and growing businesses to co-create the “digital bank of tomorrow”.

 

Ant International has also recently unveiled bettr, a new global digital lending service to provide micro lending to MSMEs through embedded finance partnerships, further accelerating financial inclusion.

 

Harnessing industry partnerships to drive MSME development

 

Ant International believes in open industry collaboration to jointly support knowledge and skills development for MSMEs.

 

In Indonesia, Ant International and DANA will launch the second edition of SisBerdaya, an initiative that provides female micro entrepreneurs training, mentoring, and educational programs in business management and digital skills. Started in 2023, the first edition drew more than 2700 applicants, with 180 participants undergoing a one-month training, and grants awarded to 30 entrepreneurs.

In collaboration with the International Finance Corporation, 10x1000 Tech for Inclusion is an open learning platform to help future digital leaders develop more skills to drive greater impact within their communities. As of 2023, with the support of 40+ global strategic partners, more than 6,000 individual talents from 100+ countries and regions completed the 10x1000 learning programs, of which 90% are from developing markets and 60% work in MSMEs.

 

Earlier this year, Ant International launched Programme Sirius, with the support of 13 Asia Pacific fintech leaders to empower MSMEs in their transition towards sustainability, in line with the United Nationals Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Global campaign to ‘Embrace the power of small’

In celebration of International MSME Day, Ant International launches its ‘Embrace the power of small” campaign featuring three business owners and their journeys of digitalization. The business owners are:

 

	Cholthicha Joyyangsuk (Numwan), Thailand – a micro entrepreneur in Bangkok selling Thai desserts on her tuktuk. With Alipay+, she can now easily accept mobile payments from tourists, sharing a slice of culture, while giving her access to a wider pool of customers.
	Lem Cheong, The Hainan Story, Singapore – inspired by his grandma’s rich heritage and flavourful recipes, Mr Cheong aims to evolves traditional dishes, just as he evolves his business with digital tools like Antom’s D-store solution to simplify his store operations.
	Lewis Ames, Wrimes Cosmetics, UK – starting with neon face paint and pivoting to pet care during the pandemic, Mr Ames uses WorldFirst to pay his suppliers and collect payments from marketplaces easily, so he can grow his business from Stevenage to the world.

 

These stories will be featured on out-of-home billboards, starting in Europe, in time for the UEFA EURO 2024, of which Ant International is the Official Payment Partner, and rolled out to other global markets, and also on TV and social media.

2024 CSR Conference and Expo in July spotlights innovation and technology in a New and Inclusive Future

Manila, Philippines: Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) have emerged as transformative forces in the modern business landscape, and promise significant benefits for early adopters, but they are not without disruptive impacts—including the possibility of disproportionately affecting more vulnerable members of society. 

The League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) is organizing the highly anticipated 2024 CSR EXPO to rally CSR practitioners to collaborate and harness the potential of technology and innovation while overcoming their risks. This year’s conference is on July 3 and 4 at Dusit Thani Manila, while the EXPO is on July 4 and 5 at the Glorietta Activity Center, both in Makati City. 

Aptly themed “Reimagining a New and Inclusive Future”, this year’s Expo will bring together leaders, experts, and representatives of different industries to tackle significant topics ranging from how technology can enhance CSR practice and ESG reporting to AI’s role as a catalyst for innovation and as a source of disruption. It will also feature small-group breakout sessions where attendees can gather new insights and tactics about how AI and other revolutionary technologies can be leveraged across such crucial areas as enterprise development, health, environment, education, disaster resilience, arts and culture, and financial inclusion. 

This gathering of CSR experts will showcase the application of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting can help mitigate the challenges posed by technology. The sector aims to ensure that these technologies are inclusive and contribute to true societal and national development that benefits the 51% of Filipinos living in poverty.

“Corporates should view these innovations as vital opportunities to take part in, if not lead an all-of-nation implementations of CSR and ESG that maximize these innovations’ potential and promise while offsetting and minimizing their potential ill effects,” said Shem Jose W. Garcia, LCF Vice-Chair and Executive Director, Vivant Foundation, Inc. “These approaches must work to ensure that the application of technology is aligned with the fundamental principles of CSR and ESG, and, by doing so, made inclusive and contributes to social sustainability and the common good.”

Esteemed speakers across various spheres

The 2024 CSR EXPO will connect an estimated 200 delegates with industry leaders in CSR, technology and innovation, and other areas, and serve as a venue for dynamic discussions and collaboration.

The speaker lineup includes Keynote Speaker, Dr. David R. Hardoon, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aboitiz Data Innovation; Forum Speakers Leo de Velez, co-founder of Frontlearners, Inc.; Sherwin Yap, founder of Kaizen Robotics International; and Sherlo Reyes, Director for the Center for Partnership & Development, School of Deaf Education & Applied Studies at the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

For the thematic sessions, speakers include Ted Monroy, country representative, United Nations Industrial Development Organization; Dr. Alvin Marcelo, Philippine Digital Health Strategy Technical Working Group, Department of Health; Dr. Chelsea Elizabeth Samson, head of Strategy & Communications and head of Public Health and Policy, Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc.; James Elrond B. Lagare, Managing Director, Geodata Systems Technologies, Inc.; Prof. Erika Fille T. Legara, Aboitiz chair in Data Science and Associate Professor, Asian Institute of Management; Hon. Nolasco A. Mempin, Undersecretary for Administration, Department of Education; Ms. Aprille P. Tijam, Associate Director and Head of Exhibitions and Collections, Ayala Museum; Engr. Sergio Ramos III, president of PCI Innovations Tech Center; and Esteban Masagca, Executive Director, People’s Disaster Risk Reduction Network.

For the full list of speakers and sessions, please view the Conference Program at bit.ly/2024CSRExpo 

Recognizing outstanding CSR initiatives

In celebration of National CSR Week, LCF will award noteworthy examples of CSR excellence concurrently with the Expo.

LCF will announce the winners of the 2024 Guild Awards on the evening of July 3 at Dusit Thani Manila. The yearly awards program honors exemplary CSR initiatives undertaken by LCF members.

For the first time, the League will also be awarding the CSR Medal of Recognition to non-members to acknowledge the work and effort they provide in their respective communities. The Medal of Recognition celebrates the interventional activities of non-member corporates. This inaugural program will be held on July 5 at the Glorietta.

Upholding CSR and technology to the public

Meanwhile, the Expo at the Glorietta Activity Center, which will be held from July 4 to 5, will showcase technology-themed CSR initiatives undertaken by LCF members and non-members alike for the general public. 

This year’s exhibitors are Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc.; Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc.; BPI Foundation, Inc.; Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation, Inc.; Metrobank Foundation, Inc.; Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.; Metro Pacific Investment Foundation, Inc.; Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, Inc.; Vivant Foundation, Inc.; Manila Water Foundation, Inc.; Power 4 All, Inc.; Lopez Group Foundation, Inc.; Energy Development Corporation; BDO Foundation, Inc.; San Miguel Foundation, Inc.; Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philippines, Inc.; Ayala Foundation, Inc.; Don Antonio O. Floirendo Sr. Foundation, Inc.; East West Seed Foundation, Inc.; Joy~Nostalg Foundation, Inc.; SM Foundation, Inc.; PCI Innovations Tech Center, Inc.; Frontlearners, Inc.; Rise Against Hunger Philippines; and Animal Empathy Philippines.

The Expo will also serve as a venue for the launch of LIFE, the League of Corporate Foundations’ Initiative for Food Security, Nutrition and Empowerment. LIFE is a  League-wide initiative working to halt stunting, wasting and malnutrition while collaborating with like-minded groups and government agencies.

Established in 1991, LCF is a network of operating and grant-making corporate and family foundations and corporations in the Philippines. The League has continued to be at the forefront of promoting and enhancing CSR practice among its members and the larger business community in the country. Visit the LCF homepage at lcf.org.ph and the 2024 Conference and Expo microsite at bit.ly/2024CSRExpo.  

The 2024 CSR Conference and Expo is co-organized with Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, Inc., and Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. It is also brought to you by Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.; Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc.; Manila Water Foundation, Inc.; Metrobank Foundation, Inc.; SM Foundation, Inc., Henry Sy Foundation, Inc., and Felicidad T. Sy Foundation, Inc.; and Vivant Foundation, Inc.

A New Era for Alsons Dev: Miguel Dominguez Steps Up as President and CEO

In a move that signals a new era of leadership, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) proudly announces the appointment of Miguel Rene A. Dominguez as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. This marks a pivotal moment for the company as it continues to expand its footprint in the real estate development sector.

Dominguez will be succeeding Rosie A. Dominguez, who will be retiring from her position as Executive Vice President. His ascension ensures continuity by taking on Rosie Dominguez’s comprehensive scope of responsibilities, promising to uphold and build upon the legacy of excellence that has defined the company under her stewardship.

Prior to this new designation, Dominguez served as Alsons Dev’s Director. Simultaneously, he was the Vice President for Operations at the Alcantara Group’s Agribusiness Unit, running the Philippines’ largest fully integrated aquaculture farm, value-added processing, and exports of fresh bananas and pineapples. 

Shaping a visionary leader

Dominguez had a distinguished career in the government and business sectors that shaped his leadership philosophy. His professional journey began in agriculture, where he learned the value of empathy and communication. By working with people from different walks of life, he discovered the critical importance of motivating others and effectively conveying the company's vision. This enabled him to rally everyone to work together towards a common cause. 

Following his stint in agriculture, Dominguez transitioned to a role in government when he became the Governor of Sarangani. His tenure was marked by significant achievements under the mentorship of prominent leaders such as the late Jesse Robredo. His innovative programs and initiatives during his governance were recognized nationally, earning him three presidential awards and the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines (TOYM) Award for Governance and Public Service.

Continuing Alsons Dev’s legacy

Dominguez’s extensive experience in agriculture, government, and management positions him to lead Alsons Dev into a future of continued success and innovation. His rich background provides him with a robust foundation in leadership and imbues him with the empathy and strategic foresight necessary to drive the company forward.

"We must always give credit to those whose shoulders we stand on, not just professionally but also for the experiences that shaped us as individuals," he said. “My mom Rosie’s legacy is one of utmost commitment to quality and fostering developments that emphasize family values. These guiding principles will continue to shape our future endeavors.”

Dominguez’s vision for Alsons Dev is forward-looking and ambitious, recognizing the need to differentiate the company in a competitive market. In recent years, Alsons Dev has expanded its focus beyond high-end developments to serve a broader market, including underserved segments seeking value-driven housing solutions. Dominguez is excited about this expansion and the opportunity to provide family-centric developments where families can live safely and thrive.

In addition to being the new President and CEO of Alsons Dev, Dominguez will concurrently serve as the Director for Corporate Strategy for the Alcantara Group’s Agribusiness Unit (ABU), underscoring his versatility and the trust the organization places in his leadership capabilities.

As Dominguez steps into his new roles, his wealth of experience and visionary approach herald a new chapter for Alsons Dev and the bigger Alcantara Group, which is celebrating its 70th founding anniversary this year.

IT’S RAINING SAVINGS WITH SM’S END OF SEASON SALE

Prepare your shopping bags and get ready to say YES to amazing deals at SM's End of Season Sale happening from June 28 to July 7, 2024! Enjoy an exciting array of fashion discounts, entertainment, and mall-wide shopping promotions from The SM Store, SM Hypermarket, SM Supermarket, Surplus, Miniso, Watsons, and over a hundred stores.

Elevate your home with coveted appliances from SM Appliance Center, stylish furniture from Our Home, and handy tools from Ace Hardware. Don't miss the incredible discounts of up to 70% off, and fill your carts with all your essentials for the year!

Refresh your wardrobe with the latest fashion collections from SM’s boutiques and pamper yourself with beauty-boosting treatments from the wellness and beauty section of the mall.

Nothing brings people together like good food, so be sure to indulge in delicious meals at the SM Foodcourt. Discover new authentic dishes from the recently opened food stalls at SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela.

With countless reasons to love SM Supermalls, make it your go-to destination for shopping and leisure. Stretch your hard-earned peso and enjoy unbelievable discounts and amazing bargains at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Shop now and say YES to fantastic deals!

Igloo strengthens MSME support with Growsari partnership, providing insurance to sari-sari stores in the Philippines

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 26 June 2024– From small mom-and-pop shops around the corner, sari-sari stores, and small businesses started by young entrepreneurs, the importance and impact of these micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) cannot be overstated. These businesses account for 99.5% of the total number of companies in the country and employ 62.8% of the workforce. 

However, the same segment is often exposed to a wide range of risks, from theft, illnesses, or natural disasters. Compared to larger businesses, they struggle to manage these risks more due to limited resources.

Understanding how these businesses are major drivers for economic growth, regional insurtech Igloo together with Growsari, a leading B2B MSME enabler that powers Philippines sari-sari stores, introduced the Personal + Business Protection Plan that provides financial assistance to these neighborhood convenience stores in case of unwanted incidents arising from natural calamities such as floods due to heavy rain.

“Igloo and Growsari share the same goal of protecting MSMEs like sari-sari stores by offering innovative insurance solutions that will help them mitigate risks while ensuring they can continue to thrive and contribute to the growth of their communities,” said Roberto Vea, Commercial Lead at Igloo Philippines. “As we celebrate International MSME Day on June 27, we not only reaffirm our commitment to continue providing them with the tools and protection they need but champion how these businesses are the backbone of our economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering community resilience.”

The Personal + Business Protection Plan provides up to P150,000 in financial coverage for accidents and up to P35,000 of cash assistance to help them protect their property or inventory in cases of flood and fire in more than 200,000 sari-sari stores in the country.

Beyond this, Igloo and Growsari are empowering these sari-sari stores to eventually extend the same protection plan to their customers and community–giving them ease of access to insurance products that can protect them and their loved ones. This is part of Igloo’s mission to provide affordable and accessible insurance for all.

“We’re not stopping there as we plan to expand the partnership to help cover their customers or sukis against unforeseen events. The goal is to provide the most comprehensive protection product for these businesses, covering not just their assets but also their human capital,” Vea added.

The Personal + Business Protection Plan is one of the latest MSME products Igloo has created with its partners. Last year it introduced NegosyoCare with GCash and Malayan–an insurance product specifically designed to protect MSMEs that provides coverage for accidents and other unwanted situations through the GInsure Marketplace.

These products further Igloo’s mission to provide underserved segments with comprehensive and affordable protection products across the region.

Learn more about Igloo’s products and services by visiting iglooinsure.com

Zed Secures BSP License, Begins Rolling Out Invitations to 40k Waitlist

Manila, Philippines, June 25, 2024 - Zed, a credit-led neobank, announced today it has received its Certificate of Authority to Operate as a standalone credit card issuer from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). 

"Our BSP license makes us the first Philippine neobank to offer credit cards as a standalone issuer," said Danielle Cojuangco Abraham, "This independence and our foundation as a technology company means we can rapidly and continuously improve our product, unconstrained by legacy systems.”

After operating in a BSP-sanctioned pilot for the last 6 months, the Zed Card is officially rolling out to the public on an invite-only basis, starting with its waitlist. Zed has seen overwhelming demand for its no interest, no fees Mastercard Titanium Credit Card, garnering close to 40,000 sign ups since launching its waitlist in March this year. 

Those who have signed up for the waitlist will receive invitations to apply for a Zed card over the coming months. “We’re overwhelmed by the excitement for Zed and the number of signups we’ve received. Given the significant demand, it will take some time for us to open up spots for all 40,000 individuals on the waitlist. Rest assured, we’re already sending out invitations and will get to everyone that’s signed up. Our priority is onboarding new users at a pace where we can ensure a stellar experience for every Zed customer, so hang tight!” said Danielle Cojuangco Abraham, Zed co-founder and CEO

ELEVATE DINING EXPERIENCE AT SM CITY MARILAO FOODCOURT

With a lot of exciting stores, promos, and happenings to love and enjoy, SM City Marilao makes shopping even better with an elevated dining experience at SM Foodcourt.

Apart from the improved dining ambiance, SM Foodcourt at SM City Marilao offers a well-curated food choice for every craving. Must-visit specialty stores include Japanese diners such as Takoyadon, which offers the best-tasting Takoyaki, Yakisoba, Donburi, and Udon, while Kyushu Curry House serves authentic-style ramen.

Filipino food and the taste of home can likewise be enjoyed at S.A.L.O, Baliwag Lechon Manok, Pares Retiro, and Sizzling Plate. International flavors, such as Mr. Kimbob and Turk’s Shawarma, are sure havens for foodies.

Take comfort in the classic favorites like Lugaw Republic, Master Siomai, Potdog, Gimme Fries, Noodlemix, Eggspert, ChizMozza, and Pizzarina. Also indulge in Asian street food-inspired selections from Mr. Tentacles’ Baby Octopus Takoyaki, Korea Hotteok, and Tokyo Tempura. 

For dessert, check out the Gugu Manju Korean mini cakes, Lil Orbits Mini Donuts, and Pinoy favorite Ice Scramble ni Momshie Sarah. Thirst quenchers like Juice Avenue and Coco Circle also offer refreshing and all-natural beverages to complement every meal.

In a bid to foster a culture of cleanliness and ensure public well-being, SM Foodcourt at SM City Marilao advocates for the “Clean as you go” (CLAYGO) system. Through this initiative, customers are encouraged to support responsible dining by returning food trays, plates, and utensils to designated Tray Return Stations. Additionally, SM Foodcourt provides trash bins labeled recyclable, disposable, compostable, and liquid for customers’ convenient waste disposal.

Come visit SM Foodcourt at SM City Marilao, located at the ground level of the mall. For updates, follow SM City Marilao’s official Facebook page. 

It’s official! The AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 Series is coming soon in PH

Manila, Philippines, June 25, 2024 – Leading smart devices provider, HONOR, has confirmed to launch the AI Portrait Master HONOR 200 Series in the Philippines! HONOR 200 is the latest range of smartphone from the brand and stirred a lot of demand with its Four-Layer AI Architecture comprises Cross-device and Cross-OS AI, Platform-level AI, App-level AI, and Interface to Cloud-AI services. 

“It is indeed official! HONOR 200 Series will arrive in the Philippines very soon so don’t dare miss our next announcements. We are beyond excited to push the boundaries of AI and deliver seamless experiences to our users,” HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng said. 

 

HONOR 200 Series First Look  

The leading smartphone in the country has started the teaser for HONOR 200 with Studio Harcourt-themed photos, a valuable partnership of the brand. The said studio is a prestigious institution in Paris that was integrated to the DSLR-killer camera of HONOR 200. 

Stay tuned for HONOR’s big announcements soon. Head on to HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines). To check out HONOR’s complete list of retail stores, go to https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/.