Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Smart Is on the Way! HONOR X9c Smart 5G coming this February 20
Monday, February 17, 2025
DTI, Gov’t Agencies Connect Farmers and Consumers at Kadiwa ng Pangulo in Alaminos
Alsons Dev Formalizes Support for DCWD’s Watershed Management Program
Davao City, Philippines, February 17 2025 – Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) formalized its partnership with the Davao City Water District (DCWD) for the Adopt-A-Site project through a Memorandum of Agreement signing held on February 13, 2025, at the Alsons Dev Poblacion Market Central Sales Showroom.
Leading the signing were Alsons Dev Vice President & General Manager Eric de la Costa, Alsons Dev Corporate Communications Manager Margarita Rey-Gross, DCWD General Manager Mildred G. Aviles, CPA, DM-HRM, DCWD Community Relations and External Affairs Department Manager Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod, DCWD Environment and Watershed Protection Division Manager Anji Laura A. Grecia-Lorona and Ryan Vidanes, Executive Director of the Alcantara Foundation, the CSR arm of the Alcantara Group;
Through this partnership, Alsons Dev will adopt and rehabilitate five hectares of land in the Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan Watershed as part of DCWD’s Integrated Watershed Management Program. This initiative supports the protection of this critical water source through sustained reforestation and maintenance efforts over the next five years.
The Adopt-A-Site project encourages stakeholder involvement in watershed conservation, ensuring a sustainable water supply for future generations. Alsons Dev's participation highlights the company’s long-term commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
Alsons Dev is a leading property developer in Davao, committed to creating sustainable and vibrant communities. For more information about Alsons Dev, visit https://alsonsdev.com/
Garmin Introduces its First Large-Format Dive Computer: Descent X50i
Disney Cruise Line Reveals an Array of New, Immersive Experiences coming to the Disney Adventure
Singapore (February 17, 2025) – Disney Cruise Line today unveiled a series of new and incredible experiences coming to the Disney Adventure, including several firsts for the fleet, giving guests even more reasons to book and enjoy a magical vacation at sea.
More beloved Disney stories and characters will come to life on the Disney Adventure through Marvel Style Studio that makes its Disney Cruise Line debut, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and Royal Society for Friendship and Tea. In another first for the fleet, Duffy and Friends will appear onboard through a series of delightful retail and entertainment experiences, including the brand-new show “Duffy and The Friend Ship.”
The Disney Adventure will set sail on its maiden voyage on December 15, 2025 from Singapore. Guests can book new sail dates between April and September 2026 directly from the Disney Cruise Line website, through the Disney Cruise Line contact center, or with their preferred travel agents.
A video showcasing the array of new experiences is available to view here: https://youtu.be/E4QqHyDTAAs
PH Poised to Become Global Semiconductor Champion in 5 Years, Industry Leaders Say
Sunday, February 16, 2025
This Valentine’s Day, Show Your Love and Get Protected Against Cervical Cancer
Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time for chocolates, flowers, and romantic dinners. But what if this year, you and your partner focused on something different? What if you celebrated your love by looking after your health and well-being?
This Valentine’s Day, consider a new kind of love language: the language of health and protection. Let’s explore how couples can make this day special while taking a proactive step toward a healthier future together.
HPV: A shared concern for couples
While often associated with women’s health, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is a concern for both men and women. It is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to various health problems, including cervical cancer in women and other cancers in both sexes.1 While most HPV infections clear up on their own, persistent infections can lead to serious health problems, including cervical, vaginal, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.2
The good news is that HPV is preventable through screening, vaccination, and certain healthy lifestyle choices. To stay protected, remember to observe the ABCDVs of cervical cancer prevention – Abstinence, Being faithful to one partner, Condom use, Doctor consultation, and Vaccination against HPV.
Cervical cancer is one of the only preventable cancers. HPV vaccines can prevent infection with disease-causing HPV types, helping prevent many HPV-related cancers and cases of genital warts.3 By prioritizing your own protection, you’re also safeguarding your partner’s well-being, fostering a healthier and more secure relationship.
This Valentine’s Day, consider making a joint decision to discuss HPV prevention with your doctor–together – as a symbol of your commitment to each other’s health.
HPV prevention methods for couples
Alongside abstinence, being faithful to one partner, and condom use to prevent the spread of HPV and the diseases it causes, regular screening and early detection also play a crucial role in preventing serious health complications related to HPV. Routine check-ups and consultations with your doctor can help identify potential issues before they develop into more severe conditions.
For women, Pap smears and HPV tests can detect abnormal cervical cells early, allowing for timely intervention. Men, while not having a standard HPV screening test, can still benefit from regular health consultations to monitor for any HPV-related symptoms. By staying proactive with screenings, couples can take control of their health together, ensuring a future that is not only loving but also healthy.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both males and females, ideally before they become sexually active. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests routine HPV vaccination for boys and girls at age 11 or 12, though it can be administered as early as age 9, with a two-dose series for those who start before 15 and a three-dose series for those who begin at 15 or older.4 However, even if you’re already sexually active, the vaccine can still provide protection.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the HPV vaccine is highly tolerated and effective, helping prevent up to 90% of HPV-related cancers.5 By getting the HPV vaccination as a couple, you’re investing in your future together, reducing the risk of HPV-related health complications.
Celebrate Valentine's Day with a healthy twist
This Valentine's Day, consider these health-focused activities with your significant other:
Consult your doctor about HPV vaccination.
Why not make an appointment with your doctor to discuss this as a couple? Today, it’s easier than ever to get the HPV vaccine, either from local pharmacies with certified immunizing pharmacists, or from hospitals and specialized clinics with obstetrics and gynecology (ob-gyne).
For example, specialized clinics such as Kindred and the Healthway Vax Hub offer a wide range of vaccination services for children and adults alike, including HPV vaccination. You can also book your HPV vaccination with a local pharmacy near you through the following links: Mercury Drug, Watsons Pharmacy, and Southstar Drug. Just make sure you have your doctor’s prescription with you before scheduling your HPV vaccination.
Get screened.
If you’re sexually active as a couple, consider getting screened for HPV. Early detection and treatment of HPV-related conditions can significantly improve health outcomes. While there is no specific routine HPV screening test for men just yet, couples can prioritize their sexual health by getting screened together.6
Women can get regular Pap smears to detect abnormal cells in the cervix early before they become cancerous.7 Starting at the age of 30, it is also recommended that women undergo regular HPV screening every 5 to 10 years as part of overall cervical cancer prevention.8
You can also discuss your health history and HPV risk factors with your healthcare provider. This proactive approach fosters open communication and empowers couples to make informed decisions about their health.
Start meaningful conversations about your sexual health.
A romantic candlelit dinner is a good setting as any to discuss your overall health as a couple. Open communication, especially about sexual health, is vital for romantic relationships. Couples can foster a safe and supportive environment by initiating conversations about their sexual history, concerns, and preventive measures.
Maintaining open dialogue about sexual health helps reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promotes overall well-being.9 Couples can start by sharing their knowledge about STIs, including HPV, and discussing their HPV vaccination status.
The gift of health: A lasting expression of love
Remember: love is a journey, and health is an integral part of that journey. Prioritizing your health is one of the most profound ways to express your love for yourself and your partner. By prioritizing your health, you’re ensuring that you can enjoy many more Valentine’s Days together, filled with love, laughter, and good health.
To learn more about how you can protect yourself and your partner from HPV and cervical cancer, visit https://
The New BFF Card Goes Digital: All Your Bistro Perks Are Just a Tap Away
Friday, February 14, 2025
Pamper Yourself this February with these Unbeatable Beauty Deals
February is here, and love is in the air—not just for romance but also for the best beauty deals of the season! Whether you’re shopping for your Valentine, treating yourself, or simply restocking your beauty must-haves, these unbeatable promos will make your heart (and wallet) happy. From Ever Bilena’s hottest lip deals to Hello Glow’s biggest birthday sale, we’ve rounded up the sweetest offers from your favorite makeup, skincare, and K-beauty brands this month!
It’s love at first swipe with Ever Bilena
Get your hands on best-selling lip makeup for just ₱143—but only on two special weekends! Mark your calendars for February 14-16 and February 28-March 2 to grab these sweet deals. And here’s the biggest steal: the newly launched Pillow Pop Multi Pot is part of the sale, dropping from ₱295 to just ₱143!
Careline’s playful beauty at irresistible prices
Select lip and eye makeup for just ₱143 on February 14-16 and February 28-March 2. Score the latest Glitter Ink and Colored Ink Liners, Careline x SpongeBob collaboration items, and the newly relaunched Careline Multisticks and Whipped Cream Tints at these limited-time prices! If you also love Careline’s Powder Matte Lip Tint, this TikTok cult favorite is also only ₱99 all month long!
Hello Glow’s biggest birthday sale ever!
It’s Hello Glow’s 5th birthday, and they’re celebrating with a 5-day, 50% OFF sale on ALL Hello Glow products! Yes, every single product is half price from February 13 to 17, 2025! This is your best chance to stock up on your Hello Glow skincare, hair care, body care, and even depilatory essentials and other glowing must-haves. You won’t want to miss it.
Spotlight Cosmetics has steal-worthy deals all month long
The Classic Lip Collection is on sale for just ₱143! These include their Superstar Lip Crayons, Creamy, Matte, and Liquid Lipsticks, and their Rising Star Lip Balms and Lip & Cheek Paints. Newer bestsellers like the Dewy Lip Balms, Hydra Tints, Satin Butter Lips, and Soft Glow Multi-Use Beauty Wands are all available at ₱143 off.
Hyaloo’s Korean Skincare Innovations at all-time low prices
Hyaloo is giving you more reasons to care for your skin! Enjoy ₱143 OFF on all Hyaloo skincare products all month long. Yes, all Hyaloo products, from their Aqua Plus, Glow Boost, Pore Repair ranges as well as their newly releast Power-Lift anti-aging collection. You might even see some unreleased products in stores, and they’re part of the sale too! If you haven’t tried this hydrating derma-skincare brand, now is the time.
It’s sheet mask heaven with Ever Organics
Pamper your skin with Ever Organics serum-infused sheet masks for only ₱29 each for all variants—all month long! Stock up on your favorites for a self-care boost anytime, anywhere.
Don’t Miss Out!
These exclusive Love Month promos are available for a limited time only and only in selected stores, so make sure to set your alarms and drop by your favorite participating retails stores before these deals disappear! Whether you're a makeup lover, skincare junkie, or K-beauty fan, there’s something for everyone to love this February!
GCash Highlights Safe and Secure Transactions During Dinagyang and Sinulog Festivals
January in the Philippines is a time of vibrant celebrations and cultural festivities that unite communities. This year, GCash once again joins two of the biggest and most awaited festivals: Dinagyang and Sinulog. Participants filled the streets with vibrant music, energetic dance, and colorful festivities, and GCash was right there with them, elevating the experience.
Exciting booths were stationed at various key locations in Cebu City, including Plaza Independencia, Fuente Osmeña, the CCSC Parade Route, and Ayala Center. Meanwhile, in Iloilo City, the booths were set up at Ayala Malls Atria and Festive Walk.
GCash emphasized the importance of learning and identifying phishing tactics to protect users against cyber threats. As part of its ongoing #GSafeTayo campaign to strengthen cybersecurity in the country, festival-goers had the chance to visit GCash booths and participate in the "GCash Spot-a-Scam Bingo Challenge," an interactive game that taught them how to identify phishing tactics while winning exciting prizes. This initiative made learning about digital security engaging and enjoyable. By understanding and recognizing these tactics, GCash users can protect their financial details, maintain privacy, enhance cybersecurity awareness, and build a human firewall. Through these efforts, GCash and its users contribute to a safer digital environment for everyone.
For those new to cashless transactions, GCash also provided personal assistance in registering for a GCash and GSave account, verifying accounts, and cashing in for the first time. Participants also received official GCash Tote Bags marked with the popular festivals.
Additionally, users explored GLoan Sakto, an in-app loan feature that allows them to borrow as little as P100, repayable within 14 days with 0% interest. First-time users were also given special GCash festival t-shirts.
To further enhance the festival experience, attendees received small tokens of appreciation, including t-shirts, umbrellas, accessories, and other giveaways. A Buy Load booth was also available, enabling festival-goers to purchase mobile load and receive freebies. To keep everyone refreshed, water and treats were sold for just P5 each, ensuring a fun and comfortable festival experience.
Through these exciting activities, locals and tourists alike enjoyed a festival season that is a more memorable, safer, and more seamless experience.
For more information, please visit www.gcash.com